The NFL might never be able to convince fans it doesn’t rule in favor of the Kansas City Chiefs – but it’s going to try.
On Friday afternoon the Chiefs were involved in yet another controversial ending in the team’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Quarterback Aidan O’Connell had his team in position for a game-winning field goal before an errant snap ricocheted off his chest in the final seconds.
Linebacker Nick Bolton was there to hop on the ball for the Chiefs, but not before a penalty was called. A sideline official appeared to suggest a false start should have been called, which would have blown the play dead and Kansas City would not have taken possession.
However, after a conversation between the officials, an illegal shift was the ultimate call – a penalty that doesn’t involve the play being blown dead. Thus, the fumble recovery stood and the Chiefs were able to kneel out the remainder of the clock and escape with a 19-17 win.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Raiders reporter Vic Tafur asked the NFL for a statement on the play. According to the league’s ruling, an illegal shift was the correct call because the clock had been stopped before the play.
“Had the clock been running at the snap, then by rule an illegal shift would convert to a false start. Since the clock was stopped (spike on the 2nd down play), an illegal shift is a live ball foul,” the league said.
In the end the Chiefs walked out with their 11th win of the season and set an NFL record for their 14th consecutive one-score win. Kansas City also clinched a playoff spot, earning its 10th consecutive playoff appearance, which is good for second in NFL history.
The Raiders, meanwhile, fell to 2-10 on the season.
