Texans Question Officiating in Chiefs' Playoff Win as NFL Defends Controversial Calls

The NFL explained penalties in Kansas City's victory, while Houston players and coaches expressed frustration over perceived bias.

The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Houston Texans 23-14 in the divisional round, advancing to their seventh consecutive AFC Championship game.
Two controversial penalties against the Texans—roughing the passer and unnecessary roughness—sparked criticism from Houston's players and coaches.
NFL Senior VP of Officiating Walt Anderson defended the calls, citing rulebook guidelines and officials' judgment under uncertain circumstances.
Texans' quarterback C.J. Stroud took a measured stance, acknowledging the difficulty of officiating, while teammates and coach DeMeco Ryans voiced stronger frustrations.
The Texans were penalized 82 yards on eight infractions, compared to the Chiefs' 29 yards on four penalties, intensifying the debate over fairness.