Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott expressed his frustration regarding a crucial decision made by the officials during overtime in their playoff defeat against the Denver Broncos. He believed a key interception should have been reviewed, stating, “That play is not even close. That”s a catch all the way.” McDermott emphasized that the NFL”s handling of the situation was inadequate and called for an explanation for both players and fans.
The Bills fell to the Broncos 33-30, marking another disappointing exit in the divisional round. During their only offensive drive in overtime, a pivotal call overshadowed the team”s efforts. Quarterback Josh Allen threw a pass to wide receiver Brandin Cooks on a crucial third-and-11 from their own 36-yard line. Cooks initially secured the catch and seemed to be down by contact. However, Broncos cornerback Ja”Quan McMillian managed to wrestle the ball away, leading to an interception instead of a potential game-winning field goal for the Bills.
“He had a step on me and I just fought through the hands and finished the play,” McMillian explained. “He actually had the ball coming down, and once I had my hand on the ball, I was able to take it from him.” The officials ruled the play an interception, a decision that Broncos head coach Sean Payton hailed as “an amazing play.”
Since challenges are not permitted during overtime, McDermott called a timeout in an attempt to prompt a review of the play, which he believed was mishandled. Although the league”s replay officials in New York reviewed the footage, McDermott was displeased that the on-field officials did not take the time to examine the play themselves. “I don”t understand why the head official who is at the game does not get a chance to look at the same thing people in New York are ruling on,” he stated.
Referee Carl Cheffers later clarified the ruling, explaining that Cooks did not complete the process of the catch since he lost possession when hitting the ground. Cheffers noted that the defender had gained possession at that moment, thus awarding the ball to the Broncos. Cooks, while confident in his catch, acknowledged that he could have done more to ensure the officials made the right call.
McDermott reiterated the significance of the moment, insisting it was too critical to overlook. “Too big of a play in a play that decided the game, potentially as well, to not even slow it down,” he remarked. “That”s why I had to call the timeout. It”s not what I wanted to do, but I had to do it in order to make sure that I understood what was going on and that they did take a look at it.” He concluded with a passionate defense of his team, stating, “I”m saying it because I”m standing up for Buffalo, dammit. I”m standing up for us.”
