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Super Bowl referees: John Parry heads veteran crew 01.24.12 at 10:20 am ET
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Remember “fourth-and-2,” the infamous play that essentially cost the Patriots a game against the Colts in 2009?

If there’s a similar situation in the Super Bowl at Indianapolis’ Lucas Oil Stadium, the Patriots might want to think twice. Not only is the game being played in the same city, the official who ruled that Kevin Faulk did not gain possession of the ball past the first-down marker — a ruling questioned by Bill Belichick but one that appeared to be correct — is working the Super Bowl.

Tom Stabile, in his 17th season making calls in the NFL, is part of the crew that will be headed by 12th-year official John Parry. Stabile was the head linesman on Nov. 15, 2009, and he ruled that Faulk did not demonstrate control until after he was pushed behind the first-down marker. The Colts took possession at the New England 29 with just over two minutes left and scored the game-winning touchdown three plays later for a 35-34 victory.

Parry, who by day works as a financial adviser in his home state of Ohio, was named crew chief after leading the group that oversaw the Saints-49ers NFC divisional playoff game, a classic that ended with both teams scoring in the final two minutes.

Along with Stabile, who will server as the head linesman, Parry’s assistants include umpire Carl Paganelli (13 years of experience),  line judge Gary Arthur (15 years), field judge Gary Cavaletto (9), side judge Laird Hayes (17) and back judge Tony Steratore (12).

Read More: John Parry, Tom Stabile, Print  |  Bark It Up!  |  Digg It
  • Anonymous

    Parry also worked the 2007 Patriots-Colts game where Brady and Moss erased a 20-10 gap to win and stay undefeated.

  • Edkargir

    Tom Stabile’s call in 2009 is  a none issue he made the right call. Even if i thought he made the wrong call it has nothing to do with the  SB.  The other officials  are  not Parry’s assistance they are each an equal part of the crew.                                                

  • Unclesam

    How can you Chowds whine about a call like that after the ridiculous “Tuck Rule” call 10 years ago ?!

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