Panthers' Smith rips umpire, calls him 'garbage, terrible,' says if fined, he can afford it

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith (89) leaves his pink cleats at midfield after an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, in Glendale, Ariz. The Cardinals won 22-6. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri) (The Associated Press)

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith (89) is knocked down by Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2013, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin) (The Associated Press)

Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith is upset with the officiating in Carolina's 22-6 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, calling a member of Sunday's crew "garbage."

The 34-year-old Smith on Monday said umpire Dan Ferrell is "the sorriest referee I've ever met." Smith added that Ferrell "received a check that day and I hope he feels good, because he was terrible."

Smith acknowledged his comments would likely draw a fine from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, but says he doesn't care.

Smith says, "To be honest, I make enough money where if Roger were to fine me, he can."

He is upset over several calls, including one where he felt an Arizona defensive back grabbed his jersey and another where he was flagged for offensive pass interference.

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