Once Again! Even NFL Referee Took Shot At Patriots’ Struggling O-Line

It was an ugly first half for the Patriots offensive line when New England faced the Washington Commanders on Sunday night.

So ugly, in fact, that even NFL referee Shawn Hochuli took a shot at New England's struggling group.

Patriots left tackle Chukwuma Okorafor committed an illegal formation penalty late in the first half, and it negated an impressive touchdown throw from quarterback Drake Maye to wide receiver K.J. Osborn. The flag marked the third such penalty on Okorafor -- all three being for illegal formation.

"Illegal formation, once again, left tackle No. 77 was lined up in the backfield," Hochuli said, as seen on the NBC broadcast.

Football fans and media members couldn't believe Hochuli framed it in such a way, causing many to further criticize New England's group up front.

DAMN… THE REF TAKES SHOTS AT THE #PATRIOTS OFFENSIVE LINE

“Illegal formation, ONCE AGAIN, left tackle #77 was lined up in the backfield”

pic.twitter.com/pHbSFPlSbK

    What do you think?  Leave a comment.

— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) August 26, 2024

Once again is crazy lmfao https://t.co/pZWlZloS8u

— Boston Diehards (@Boston_Diehards) August 26, 2024

"Illegal formation, once again No. 77 was lined up in the backfield."

Once again!

— Zack Cox (@zm_cox) August 26, 2024

"Illegal formation, once again, on the left tackle." ☠️☠️

— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) August 26, 2024

Ooof. When the ref says “once again” that’s damning.

— Mark Dondero (@MarkDondero) August 26, 2024

ONCE AGAIN!

— Sean T. McGuire (@BySeanMcGuire) August 26, 2024

The Patriots concluded the first half after their offensive line was whistled for seven (!) penalties.

Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett exited the game following one series after he suffered a shoulder injury. Brissett was sacked on the play after New England's offensive line couldn't execute a play in front of him.