19. The Phantom Tackle
Patriots’ fans of a certain vintage still bridle when they hear the name, Ben Dreith. New England played the Oakland Raiders in 1976 in the playoffs, when they still wore their classic red uniforms. This was one of the most exciting Pats’ rosters in years and analysts believed that they could go all the way. However, the referee had other ideas. Dreith made one of the most appalling decisions in NFL history.
An appalling roughing the passer call against Ray Hamilton effectively handed the Raiders the 24-21 victory. They scored a touchdown immediately after the referee’s comedy decision to end the Patriots’ dreams for another season. Some calls haunt franchises. This was definitely one of them because a golden generation of players was unable to achieve their dreams.