The upcoming NFC Conference Championship game between the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday is being hailed as one of the most important games in the Super Bowl era for the Lions franchise. Taking charge of this crucial matchup will be referee Clete Blakeman, whose officiating crew has gained attention for their lower-than-average penalty calls throughout the season.

According to statistics from the 2023 regular season, Blakeman-led crews averaged 10.94 penalties per game, slightly below the NFL average of 11.36. Football Zebra's preview of the Conference Championship referee assignments highlighted Blakeman's extensive experience, as he is currently in his 16th season as an official and 14th as a referee. Having officiated 14 postseason games, including 4 Wild Card Playoffs, 5 Divisional Playoffs, 4 Conference Championships, and Super Bowl 50, Blakeman carries a wealth of knowledge on the field.

However, Blakeman's career has not been without controversy. Several articles referencing "Clete Blakeman controversy" can be found, detailing past controversial calls throughout his tenure. The Lions, in particular, seem to have a history with Blakeman. One infamously remembered incident involved two disputed "illegal hands to the face" penalties called against the Lions during a Monday Night Football game against the Green Bay Packers in 2019. The calls allowed the Packers to extend their drives, resulting in 10 points and a heartbreaking 23-22 loss for Detroit. The NFL later admitted that mistakes were made by the officiating crew.

Since that game, Blakeman has been assigned to five Lions games, with the team recording only one victory against the Las Vegas Raiders during this season's Week 8 on Monday Night Football. Notably, in each of these games, Blakeman's crew has called more penalties on the team that would ultimately emerge as the winner.

As the Conference Championship game approaches, fans hope for a clean and fair contest, where the focus remains on the players. With Blakeman at the helm, there is a heightened sense of scrutiny considering his past controversial calls involving the Lions. Detroit supporters will likely remember the "illegal hands to the face" incident, but they also hope that Blakeman's extensive experience will ensure a well-officiated game come Sunday.