In a crucial game between the Chiefs and the Bills, a controversial offside penalty on Kadarius Toney led to the negation of what could have been a game-winning touchdown. The Chiefs were visibly frustrated by the call, with head coach Andy Reid suggesting that they should have received a warning if Toney was lining up offside.
However, referee Carl Cheffers defended the penalty in a post-game interview with a pool reporter. Cheffers explained that while warnings are typically given for close calls, Toney’s offside position was so glaring that it warranted an immediate flag.
“Yes, ultimately, if they looked for alignment advice, certainly we are going to give it to them,” Cheffers stated. “But ultimately, they are responsible for wherever they line up. And, certainly, no warning is required, especially if they are lined up so far offsides where they’re actually blocking our view of the ball. So, we would give them some sort of a warning if it was anywhere close, but this particular one is beyond a warning.”
The penalty proved costly for the Chiefs, as it nullified what could have been one of the most spectacular plays of the NFL season. Travis Kelce had caught a pass from Patrick Mahomes and executed a lateral to Toney for what appeared to be a game-changing touchdown. However, the flag altered the outcome of the play, and the officials stood by their decision.