Super Bowl 59 is set for a thrilling rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. The Chiefs are making their fifth appearance in six years, while the Eagles return to the big game for the second time in three seasons. With two powerhouse teams battling for the Lombardi Trophy, every call from the officiating crew will be under intense scrutiny.
Here’s everything you need to know about the referees for the biggest game of the year.
Who Is The Super Bowl 59 Referee?
Ron Torbert will serve as the head referee for Super Bowl 59. He is making his second appearance after officiating in the Super Bowl 56 between the Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals.
Torbert has extensive experience and a history of calling critical games. During the 2024 season, he officiated 18 games and ranked fourth in most flags per game. He also tied for the third-most accepted penalties, meaning fans can expect a tightly called contest.
Gill responds to a listener question wondering about Ron Torbert as #SuperBowlLIX referee, then gives his bet on the length of Super Bowl Sunday’s national anthem from American treasure, Jon Batiste @JonBatiste #ANumbersGame @VSiNLive @KelleyBydlon pic.twitter.com/wmmZv1IbIH
— Gill Alexander (@beatingthebook) January 31, 2025
Complete Super Bowl 59 Officiating Crew
While Torbert is the lead referee, he will be joined by a full crew of experienced officials. Here’s the lineup:
- Umpire: Mike Morton
- Down Judge: Max Causey
- Line Judge: Mark Stewart
- Field Judge: Mearl Robinson
- Side Judge: Boris Cheek
- Back Judge: Jonah Monroe
- Replay Official: Kevin Brown
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! Follow Us
Among these officials, only Torbert and side judge Boris Cheek have previous Super Bowl experience. The rest of the crew will be making their SB debuts.
Also Read: What Are The Greatest Super Bowl Moments In NFL History?
How Strict Is Ron Torbert’s Officiating?
Torbert’s officiating style could play a significant role in how SB 59 unfolds. Throughout the 2024 season, he ranked among the top referees in penalty calls. In Super Bowl 56, his crew called seven total penalties, with six being accepted for 41 yards.
Given how much scrutiny officiating has faced during the playoffs, expect every call in this game to be heavily analyzed.
https://t.co/0SRgopaktF #nfl #ChiefsKingdom
— NFL Digest (@nflpress_digest) January 30, 2025
In Kansas City, the Chiefs face a wave of scrutiny amidst their pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl title. Accusations of referee favoritism and questionable officiating have sparked a frenz…
How Have The Philadelphia Eagles Fared With Torbert Officiating?
Philadelphia has played eight games with Torbert as the referee, including their first and last games of the 2024 regular season. The Eagles have a 5-3 record in those games, including a perfect 2-0 mark this season.
How Have The Kansas City Chiefs Fared With Torbert Officiating?
The Chiefs have played only four games with Torbert officiating. Their last game under his watch was the AFC Championship two years ago. Kansas City holds a 3-1 record in those contests, suggesting they’ve found success when he’s officiating.
Why Officiating Matters In Super Bowl 59?
Refereeing has been a hot topic throughout this season’s playoffs, with some controversial calls drawing backlash from fans and media. With two elite teams like the Chiefs and Eagles, even a single penalty could have a game-changing impact.
Torbert and his crew will be responsible for ensuring a fair and balanced contest. His history shows he won’t hesitate to throw flags, so players must stay disciplined.
As the Chiefs attempt to become the first team in NFL history to win three consecutive Super Bowls and the Eagles look for revenge after their narrow 38-35 loss two years ago, every official decision will be magnified. Referees will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of historic Super Bowl 59.
