NFL fans question referees after controversial Cook and Pitts in Chiefs vs Falcons game | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors
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The Kansas City Chiefs remained undefeated with a 22-17 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night Football, but the hot topic after the game once again revolved around a controversial decision by the referees.
In the fourth quarter, Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins threw a pass intended for tight end Kyle Pitts in the end zone on fourth down. It looked like Chiefs safety Bryan Cook had touched Pitts before the ball got there, but the refs did not call it defensive pass interference.
Kansas City made it three-and-out on the ensuing drive and eliminated the game, giving Atlanta one last chance to win. However, the Chiefs defense closed the deal on fourth down and sent Falcons fans home disappointed from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
This is the second straight week that the Chiefs benefited from the referees, as a defensive pass interference penalty helped them score a game-winning field goal in their Week 2 win over the Cincinnati Bengals.
Fans are getting fed up with the reigning Super Bowl champions apparently letting the referees help them and have expressed their displeasure on social media:
Jared Fleming @flimflam15
Bengals CB plays the ball and is cautioned for PI. Chiefs commit textbook PI (head turned, early contact, don’t play the ball), no flag… pic.twitter.com/vmlDdMehSN
Rebecca Grant @Subscribe
Bosses repeatedly cause PI without being called out. #NFL takes over and it’s ugly to watch.
Will Petersen @PetersenWill
Every week the Chiefs get a crazy call that goes in their favor. This is clearly PI on third down and not a flag. Bullshit. @NFL
The Chiefs have been the darlings of the NFL since Patrick Mahomes took over as their starting quarterback and started their recent winning streak.
However, Sunday’s game was another example of a decision that worked in Kansas City’s favor.
Still, a win is a win and the Chiefs will look to maintain their momentum from the start of the season as they seek their fourth straight win next week against the Los Angeles Chargers.