What are the 5 worst calls in NFL postseason history?

Jan 4, 2015; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant (88) argues a pass interference call with side judge Allen Baynes (56) that was called on linebacker Anthony Hitchens (59) in the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Wild Card Playoff Game at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

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Matt Hasselbeck’s low tackle

As a whole, Super Bowl XL will be remembered as one of the worst officiated games in recent memory. The Steelers appeared to have benefited from a number of controversial calls to help them to a 21-10 win over the Seattle Seahawks.

At the very least, many of the poor calls were judgement decisions. Darrell Jackson’s offensive pass interference and Ben Roethlisberger’s short touchdown run both appeared to be bad calls, but came on close, controversial plays.

Those pale in comparison to another crucial call against the Seahawks in the fourth quarter. Seattle quarterback Matt Hasselbeck threw a critical interception deep in Pittsburgh territory down 14-10 in the fourth quarter before making the tackle on Ike Taylor during the return.

For some inexplicable reason, Hasselbeck was flagged 15 yards for a low block while making the tackle. Where the other controversial calls were on snap decisions, this one was a flat-out incorrect interpretation of the rules.

Pittsburgh got the ball around midfield and scored shortly after on an Antwaan Randle-El play to go up 21-10 and end any chance of a Seattle comeback. While the low block call wasn’t as important to the game as Hasselbeck’s interception or a number of other plays, it certainly didn’t help Seattle’s chances.

All of the bad referee decisions didn’t excuse how poorly the Seahawks played during the game, but no list of bad postseason calls would be complete without something from Super Bowl XL.

Next: Pete Morelli picks up pass interference flag

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