Overview
- With 2:09 left, an early snap led to an intentional grounding penalty that pushed Atlanta back, preceded a punt, and effectively sealed New England’s 24–23 victory.
- Raheem Morris initially alleged Patriots defenders mimicked the Falcons’ clap-based snap count, and Michael Penix Jr. said center Ryan Neuzil reported hearing clapping.
- Patriots defensive tackle Milton Williams and head coach Mike Vrabel rejected the claim, with Vrabel joking about “Clapgate” during his radio appearance.
- A day later, Morris walked back parts of his comments, saying players told him they heard something and accepting that the premature snap was on Atlanta.
- Replay reviews did not show nearby defenders clapping, with only an unclear possibility involving safety Jaylinn Hawkins; no on-field penalty was called and no NFL discipline has been announced under the ‘disconcerting signals’ rule.