Officials didn’t review the play at length, and teams were told to continue play without a lengthy review window. McDermott, unable to challenge in overtime, even called a timeout hoping for a closer look, though no official review could be initiated. The sequence kept Bills fans on edge and kept Denver’s hopes alive. ⏱️🤔
Denver then advanced and earned a 24-yard field goal from Will Lutz to win, sending the Broncos to the AFC Championship. The moment sparked sensational reactions, with some media voices labeling it among the most controversial calls in NFL history as questions swirled about whether the catch process was properly completed. 🧭🏁
McDermott spoke bluntly after the game, expressing confusion about the ruling and arguing for the game to be slowed down for a proper review given the pivotal moment and the ball at the Bills’ 20-yard line. The loss extended Buffalo’s streak to six straight seasons without a win in the AFC Divisional Round or the AFC Championship, contrasting with McDermott’s eight playoff appearances in nine years as Bills head coach. 😠🗣️
Officials explained the ruling to pool reporter Jeff Legwold: the receiver must complete the process of a catch, and in this case Cooks hit the ground while McMillian gained possession, thus awarding the ball to the defender as the completed process. The Broncos, as the top seed, will host the winner of the other Sunday game for a shot at the Super Bowl. 📝📣
