.jpg)
3 hours ago
1
The Houston Texans fell to the Kansas City Chiefs 23-14 to kickoff the divisional round of the NFL playoffs, but the game's outcome wasn't the only thing sparking conversation.
Early in the first quarter, Anderson delivered what appeared to be a textbook hit on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. To the surprise of many, including commentators Joe Buck and Tony Aikman, Anderson was flagged for roughing the passer. Aikman didn't hold back on words.
"Oh, come on," Aikman exclaimed. "I mean, he's a runner. I could not disagree with that one more. He barely gets hit."
Postgame, rookie edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. openly criticized the officiating, reflecting the team's frustration.
"We knew it was going to be us versus the refs going into this game," he remarked, echoing statements shared by head coach DeMeco Ryans, who subtly criticized the officiating as well by saying, "We knew going into this game, it was us versus everybody."
The Texans were penalized eight times for 82 yards, compared to the Chiefs' four penalties for 29 yards. These calls, particularly the ones involving Mahomes, have reignited debates among fans and analysts about potential favoritism towards the Chiefs. Former NFL offensive lineman Trai Essex didn't hold back, stating "That flop attempt by Mahomes was absolutely shameful. But when you are spoiled rotten by the refs and the NFL, that's what you do I guess."
As the Texans head into the offseason, the sting of this loss is definitely compounded by feelings of being shortchanged by the officials.
English (US)