You'd better go to the E.R. and get checked for bus tracks
I agree with a more private or quiet conference with your 'big dog'. Advise him that you had a better view of the sitch and that the next time he overrules you like this that he will do the remainder of the game alone.
Then keep ratcheting up the chain until you get someone impartial to listen but be warned: Realize that the 'old boy network' may be in place here and that your actions while honest may constrict further assignments.
Which may not be a bad thing anyway.
And yep, he balked.