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Controversial Mahomes Grounding Call Stands Despite Apparent Tip

The ruling exposed a replay gap that left officials unable to review whether a defender touched the ball.

Overview

  • Officials penalized Patrick Mahomes for intentional grounding in the third quarter of Buffalo’s 28-21 win over Kansas City.
  • Chiefs coach Andy Reid tried to challenge the decision but was told the play had no reviewable element under current rules.
  • Broadcast replays appeared to show Bills defender Michael Hoecht tip the pass at the line of scrimmage before it fell incomplete.
  • A tipped throw would typically negate grounding, yet replay assist did not intervene and the call was not changed on the field.
  • CBS rules analyst Gene Steratore called the situation unprecedented in his decades around the league and questioned the replay limitations as the decision cost Kansas City 10 yards and a down.