The Kansas City Chiefs’ narrow 26-25 win over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2 ended in controversy, largely due to a pivotal defensive pass interference penalty on fourth down that set up a game-winning 51-yard field goal by Harrison Butker.
This call sparked significant backlash on social media from Bengals fans and NFL followers, including former Cincinnati wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, who criticized the referees, saying, “Why bother playing if the results are predetermined in favor of the Chiefs?”
Some also questioned whether a holding call on the Chiefs’ offensive line should have been assessed on the same play, potentially nullifying the DPI penalty. Despite the criticism, ex-NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III defended the call, asserting that the contact was clear pass interference.
“Lots of speculation about the Chiefs and the refs, but you can’t run through a guy’s back before the ball arrives and then complain about the flag. That’s definitely pass interference.”
Former ESPN host Trey Wingo also supported the officials, pointing out that Kansas City had been penalized on a previous play, which negated a significant gain.
The game concluded with Butker’s decisive kick, but the controversy lingered. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes II weighed in post-game, explaining that while he hadn’t seen the replay, he felt Bengals defensive back Daijahn Anthony was early on the play, justifying the penalty.
Chiefs receiver Rashee Rice, who has emerged as a key target for Mahomes this season, continued to shine with another strong performance, leading the team in receiving yards and targets. His role has become even more critical with tight end Travis Kelce’s recent struggles, including a minimal impact in Week 2.
With Hollywood Brown sidelined and running back Isiah Pacheco potentially out, Rice’s prominence in the Chiefs’ offense is likely to continue, especially if Kelce’s slow start persists.