The NFL issued a statement Tuesday that supported its replacement officials following the controversial finish in Seattle's 14-to-12 win Monday night over Green Bay. While the NFL said Seattle receiver  Golden Tate should have  been called for offensive pass interference before being credited with a catch for the  winning  touchdown, a penalty that would have  ended the game in Green Bay's favor, the  league still is backing the  field  officials' ruling of simultaneous possession and the decision  to uphold the on-field call upon video  review. The league, much to the dismay of many upset players, coaches, and fans, said no indisputable visual evidence existed to overturn the call  on the field, and as a result, the on field ruling of a touchdown, rather than an interception, stood. The loud hue and cry for the NFL to end its lockout of the regular officials continues with reports indicating that the league and the Referees Association met over the weekend without coming close to a resolution.

As for the Lions, they have a new punter. Detroit has placed Ben Graham on season ending injured reserve and has signed veteran punter Nick Harris to replace him on the roster. Graham injured his calf in the first quarter of last Sunday’s loss at Tennessee. Placekicker Jason Hanson took over punting duties for the rest of the game. This week, the 1-and-2 Lions play at home against the Vikings.