More than a Game

The Oakland Raiders played the Denver Broncos late in to today, according to central time, but football didn’t seem to be the main focus while both teams were playing.  Countless times the referees had to break up fights and throw multiple penalty flags that could have been avoided.  Both teams displayed a lack of self-discipline and respect for the game, every time they let their emotions get the best of them.  I understand this is a physical game that takes dedication and determination to play, but the outlandish acts on the field involving the opposing team were uncalled for. The repeated uncontrollable fighting should have been a sign to the referees that they should have stepped in early to drawl the line.  A fifteen-yard penalty obviously wasn’t a harsh enough punishment to get the players or coaches’ attention.  I’m aware that certain sports may need additional conflict or fighting to raise the sports fan base, such as hockey, but football is better than that.  Yes, football already involves highly physical interactions, but there is a certain skill set and knowledge that comes with it.  Players shouldn’t be making a mockery of the sport by running around on the field as if they were playing “backyard football.”  Someone needs to step in and fix this problem before it gets out of hand.  I haven’t heard if some of the players have been fined for their actions yet, but I wouldn’t be disappointed if that was the case.  Football should be played with a certain amount of respect for the game and other people involved with the sport.