Overview
- Broncos cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian intercepted Patrick Mahomes near Denver’s goal line and began a long return up the sideline.
- As the play moved past the Broncos’ bench, an official ran into Payton on the white stripe, resulting in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Denver.
- Kansas City accepted a separate illegal blindside block on the Broncos, and Denver still turned the turnover into an 89-yard touchdown drive.
- One report identified the involved official as linesman Derick Bowers, and neither he nor Payton appeared injured after the collision.
- Coverage emphasized that coaches are responsible for maintaining a clear sideline area under league rules, explaining why the flag was thrown.