Everyone is talking about the penalty call that nullified one of the greatest game-winning touchdowns in NFL history in Sunday’s game between the Chiefs and the Bills.
The NFL has been buzzing about Patrick Mahomes’ spectacular sideline tantrum.
On Sunday, the reigning MVP exploded after one of the most amazing late-game touchdowns you’ll ever see was called back.
With less than a minute remaining, Mahomes delivered a deep throw to tight end Travis Kelce. Kelce threw a cross-field lateral to wideout Kadarius Toney, who carried it 24 yards for the game-winning touchdown after just dodging three defenders. However, a flag was lowered.
Toney was punished for lining up inches offside prior to the snap. The rest of the drive was in vain, as the Chiefs turned the ball over on downs in the final seconds of the game.
Mahomes slammed his helmet and was restrained by teammates while yelling at the officials.
“Wildest f—— call I’ve ever seen,” Mahomes exclaimed as he hugged Bills quarterback Josh Allen. “Offensive offsides at the time, man.” F—— awful.”
The quarterback has now apologized for his reaction and stated that he does not condone his out-of-character actions.
“I care deeply about this game,” Mahomes conveyed to Carrington Harrison of 610 Sports in Kansas City. “I have immense love for my teammates, and my desire is to give my all to win every time I step out there. However, I understand that I cannot let my emotions get the better of me. It’s not right to direct frustration toward officials or anyone in life, really. Most importantly, I regret how I reacted toward Josh [Allen] after the game because it wasn’t his fault. I was still heated and emotional, but that’s not acceptable behavior. Especially because I know kids watch these games, and I want to set a better example.”
Nevertheless, the controversy regarding whether a minor penalty should have been called during such a crucial moment in the game has become a significant topic across the league.
Chicago Bears wide receiver DJ Moore shared his thoughts about the contentious call during an appearance on sports radio 670 the Score.
“Toney needed to confirm with the ref,” Moore explained to David Haugh and Mike Mulligan. “He was slightly offside, but if the ref had simply asked him to step back a bit, it would’ve been fine. In my opinion, they shouldn’t have allowed the play to continue for that long.”
Moore stressed the importance of communication between the receiver and the official before the play starts.
“You signal to the sideline, you acknowledge the ref, if he says ‘you’re good,’ then you proceed,” he elaborated. “If he instructs you to step back, then you do. But I’m unsure about what transpired during that play.”
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