Cowher says he's sorry for referee remarks

The Steelers coach ripped a 30-year veteran after Sunday's loss.
PITTSBURGH (AP) -- Steelers coach Bill Cowher apologized Tuesday for criticizing replay official Dale Hamer following Sunday's last-minute 24-20 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Cowher appeared to question Hamer's competence when he asked why backup quarterback Charlie Batch's fumble during the final minute of the first half wasn't reviewed.
"I don't know who the replay official is but, gosh, I would think he would at least look at the play," Cowher said Sunday. "I don't know if those are local guys. I hope not. There is no reason that play should not have been reviewed."
Because the play occurred during the final two minutes of a half, Cowher could not request a replay.
Hamer, a longtime NFL official, said he determined immediately that Batch had fumbled.
Batch was attempting to throw a pass on a second-and-goal play from the Bengals' 10 when he was hit by Brian Simmons. Cowher argued it was an incomplete pass rather than a fumble, though replays appeared to clearly show Batch throwing the ball backward -- a lateral rather than a forward pass by NFL rules.
The fumble cost the Steelers a chance to cut into Cincinnati's 14-3 lead in game they eventually lost 24-20.
Pittsburgh connection
During his postgame press conference, Cowher also asked, "Is he from Pittsburgh?"
Told Hamer now lives near the city, Cowher said, "I guess that's why he's retired."
On Tuesday, Cowher said he wasn't suggesting Hamer should have favored the Steelers because he lives in the area.
Rather, he said the remarks reflected recent conversations with team owner Dan Rooney about why a replay official does not travel with every officiating crew.
"They [the comments] were inappropriate," Cowher said. "They were out of line. I have personally [apologized] to his family."
Cowher said he will accept any punishment he receives from the league.
"There is no justification for my remarks," Cowher said. "Dale Hamer has been in the National Football League for over 30 years. Not only is this guy qualified, Pittsburgh is very fortunate to have a guy of his caliber to be able to be up in that booth.
"If anything, he is overqualified."