Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Troy Aikman Questions Roughness Flag, Says NFL 'Protects' Patrick Mahomes

The comment refocused attention on how officials apply quarterback-safety rules to Kansas City’s star.

Overview

  • During the Chiefs’ 28-7 win over Washington, Jer’Zhan Newton was penalized for unnecessary roughness after wrapping Patrick Mahomes and tossing him to the turf late in the fourth quarter.
  • Troy Aikman said referees tend to protect quarterbacks, specifying “especially this one,” in reference to Mahomes.
  • Joe Buck countered on the broadcast by calling the penalty an easy call as Kansas City gained a fresh set of downs.
  • Outlets linked the moment to prior scrutiny of calls involving the Chiefs, including a Texans playoff game that the NFL later said was correctly officiated.
  • The flag did not change the outcome, and Mahomes finished with 299 yards on 74% passing and three touchdowns after two first-half interceptions.