During a recent discussion about a controversial play in the NFL divisional round playoff game between the Buffalo Bills and the Denver Broncos, former coach Steve Mariucci pressed NFL rules analyst Walt Anderson for clarity on an interception that took place. The incident involved Brandin Cooks, who appeared to catch a pass before it was intercepted by Ja”Quan McMillan.
Mariucci questioned why fans, both in the stadium and watching from home, did not hear directly from referee Carl Cheffers regarding the decision. Anderson explained that every play is reviewed by multiple officials in real-time. “You have to realize every play behind the scenes is being reviewed by multiple people,” he stated, emphasizing that the league”s guidelines aim to keep the game flowing without unnecessary stops.
He continued, “When replay has all of these angles to look at, they determine whether the ruling on the field was correct or incorrect. If they can confirm the initial call was right, they want to avoid lengthy delays.” Mariucci expressed his desire to hear from Cheffers himself, stating, “I didn”t want to hear from Tony Romo,” referring to CBS analyst Tony Romo”s commentary during the broadcast.
In the critical moment of the game, the Bills faced a second-and-11 from their own 38-yard line with less than eight minutes remaining in overtime. Quarterback Josh Allen attempted a pass to Cooks, which, had it been a completed catch, would have positioned Buffalo for a potential game-winning field goal. However, Anderson noted that the play”s outcome was complicated by the fact that the ball never hit the ground after McMillan gained possession.
“By definition, that would normally be an incomplete pass if it comes out and hits the ground,” Anderson clarified. “The reality here is the ball never hits the ground.” McMillan”s interception allowed the Broncos to regain possession, leading to a game-winning field goal by Will Lutz.
Anderson reiterated that a team in New York City and officials at the stadium analyze every angle of plays using advanced technology. “The NFL has invested millions of dollars in the Hawk-Eye system,” he said, assuring viewers that the officials work collaboratively to confirm the accuracy of calls made on the field. “That”s why it was ruled an interception,” he concluded.
This incident has sparked discussions among fans and analysts, highlighting the complexities of officiating in high-stakes games.
