Dak Prescott focusing on Dallas play, not making 'excuses' with referee calls

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott shared his opinion on the controversial referee calls and non-calls, calling them excuses for a loss. Coach Mike McCarthy and Dallas fans were upset throughout the game over a number of decisions by the officials on Sunday — although Prescott chose to focus his attention to the failure of Dallas to play “beyond” the calls.

Dak Prescott not focusing on referees

After the game, Prescott was asked during his press appearance how he felt about several called and non-called penalties by the officials — including two on the final drive of overtime that ended in a turnover-on-downs. Prescott chose to keep his answer simple and not entertain the what-if questions about the officials.

“To me, that’s excuses. We just got to play beyond that.”

Prescott’s comments come as a sign that he isn’t blaming the officials for their loss on Sunday night in overtime, although it doesn’t make the tough loss any easier to handle. Dallas dropped to 6-3 on the season after losing to the now 3-6 Packers, losing standing in the competitive NFC East and shortening the gap in the NFC Wild Card race.

Sunday certainly wasn’t the first time Prescott was asked about his opinion on NFL officials, but his opting out of the conversation is a notable change from the last time he had a grievance with referees. During last year’s tough playoff loss after mishandled clock management and a referee not moving out of the Cowboys’ way in time for a final play — Prescott applauded fans who threw debris at the officials on the field.

Prescott quickly apologized for his statement and explained that he was in the heat of the moment after the loss, but Sunday could indicate that Prescott is no longer looking to the referees as an excuse for a loss. Prescott had a rough night on Sunday as well with plenty to review this week — throwing two big interceptions that set up Packers touchdowns.