Who Was Ben Dreith?
Ben Dreith was a renowned National Football League (NFL) official, widely recognized for his animated and authoritative style as a referee. He served in the NFL from 1967 to 1991, becoming a fixture in professional football due to his distinctive penalty announcements and involvement in high-stakes games.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Throughout his career, Dreith officiated multiple major events, including playoff games and Super Bowls. He is best remembered for a controversial roughing-the-passer call during a 1986 game between the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets, which solidified his status as a polarizing figure. Key aspects of his tenure include:
- Long-term service: Officiated over 300 NFL games, influencing league rules and referee protocols.
- Signature style: Known for vocalizing penalties with dramatic flair, enhancing his public persona.
- Impact on officiating: His decisions often sparked debates, contributing to reforms in player safety and penalty enforcement.
What Happened to Ben Dreith?
After retiring from the NFL in 1991, Dreith lived a private life away from the spotlight. He passed away on November 6, 2014, at the age of 89 in Tucson, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy as one of the league's most memorable officials. His death marked the end of an era in NFL officiating history.
