In a feud that hearkens back to 1987 and the season of 'scab' football, we might now instead have 'scab' refs calling our games:

"Negotiations with the NFL Referees Association on a new collective bargaining agreement remain unresolved and the previous CBA has expired," the league said in a statement on Monday. "Therefore, in order to ensure that there is no disruption to NFL games this season we will proceed immediately with the hiring and training of replacement officials.

"Our goal is to maintain the highest quality of officiating for our teams, players and fans, including proper enforcement of the playing rules and efficient management of our games ... We have great respect for our officials and in keeping with that view have made a proposal that includes substantial increases in compensation for all game officials."

As if the officiating wasn't bad already imagine getting a bunch of rookies in there trying to interpret the rule book after only a couple months to prepare? So do we think the NFL is simply squeezing some over-priced zebras or do these guys have a legit beef? Honestly I don't really care to get into. The best ref is the one who we don't think about because he's not making dumb calls.

So I wonder if they are having try outs? I'd work the chain gang in a heartbeat! Anyone out there got some suppressed zebra in you? Let your inner zebra run free, the NFL needs you now!

I'm got some possible scab/ replacements refs...after the jump...

How terrible would football be if we had to bear a game watching these 'scab' refs call our games?

via www.1800-sports.com