The NFL is getting ready to play its first-ever game in Ireland. The Minnesota Vikings, with veteran Carson Wentz at quarterback in place of the injured J.J. McCarthy, will play the Aaron Rodgers-led Pittsburgh Steelers in Dublin on Sunday morning.
This will be an important game for both teams, even though the season is just four weeks old. Whether in the United States or overseas in Dublin, the Vikings and Steelers still need to come away with a win.
While this game takes place at Croke Park in Dublin, the NFL will ensure that it is conducted by NFL-approved referees.
Who Are The Referees For the NFL Dublin Game?
The NFL has given the Dublin refereeing assignment to Brad Allen’s team.
Allen is a 12-year veteran who has officiated some important games throughout his career. His regular team of judges will help him ensure that the Vikings and Steelers follow the rules.
Some NFL fans who will be watching their first game live in Dublin, or those who just don’t know, might want some information on what a referee, or crew chief, actually does on the field. The referee always wears a white cap and oversees all matters related to the game’s officials and keeps the game’s pace moving along.
.@dirtyGkeeper doin’ his thing. #NFLDublin #FromTheField pic.twitter.com/affp6ZMiCs
— Nick Pappas (@NPappas23) September 25, 2025
According to the NFL, the referee watches for false starts by the starting quarterback and running backs on run plays and before the snap. The referee also always watches the center, right guard, and right tackle, observing their on-field actions along with the defenders who are playing against them.
For pass plays, the referee keeps his attention on the quarterback while the opposing team’s defense threatens him. He also calls roughing the passer, offensive holding, pass/fumble, and intentional grounding.
Where Does The Referee Position Himself?
Fans watching on TV or in the stadium might look closely at where the referee positions himself on the field. He’s usually found in the offensive team’s backfield, just to the right of their offensive formation, 15 yards deep and behind where a tight end usually sets up on a play.
Who else is on Allen’s officiating crew? Marcus Woods will be the game’s umpire, while Sarah Thomas is the down judge. Walter Flowers will be the line judge, and Rick Patterson, a 30-year veteran of the NFL refereeing wars, handles field judge duties.
Chad Hill will be the game’s side judge, and Tyree Walton handles the back judge assignment.
This very special game will probably be a highlight for Allen’s team, and they know all eyes will be on them to make solid calls during the Vikings-Steelers showdown.
