Hochuli can’t escape controversy
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Referee Ed Hochuli, right, was at the center of another questionable call Sunday, flagging defensive end Julius Peppers for a roughing-the-passer penalty that wiped out Carolina’s interception return for a touchdown during the first quarter against Atlanta.
After Matt Ryan’s pass was intercepted by Richard Marshall, Hochuli threw a flag and announced Peppers made a helmet-to-helmet hit on Ryan. It erased the touchdown and gave the Falcons a first down on a drive that ended with a punt. Replays showed Peppers made contact as Ryan released the ball and appeared to hit him first with his shoulder.
“Ed came over and explained to me, he said that I hit him with my helmet,” Peppers said.
Two weeks ago, Hochuli’s missed call helped the Broncos rally for a 39-38 victory over San Diego. The Associated Press; AP photo
