Earning Their Stripes

Refs returned to a standing ovation during the Browns-Ravens game Thursday

NFL referee Gene Steratore and his crew “were treated like conquering heroes” Thursday night during the Browns-Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium, according to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore SUN. Steratore was “greeted by fans with a standing ovation prior” to the game, and he “tipped his cap to the crowd in recognition of the applause.” Ravens LB Ray Lewis, S Ed Reed, RB Ray Rice and coach John Harbaugh one by one “hugged Steratore before kickoff.” The game “seemed to flow better with fewer interruptions and more confidence from the players, coaches and fans in the officials' judgment.” Ravens QB Joe Flacco said, "The biggest thing is I think the game probably went a little b ...