The NFL playoffs always bring the drama, and this year’s divisional round clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and Houston Texans was no exception. But it wasn’t just the action on the field making waves—it was the controversial calls that had fans and players talking. Jason Kelce, former NFL center and brother of Chiefs star Travis Kelce, didn’t hold back his thoughts on one call that left viewers scratching their heads.
Jason Kelce Calls Out Questionable Refereeing
During their podcast New Heights (Ep. 121), Jason Kelce shared his unfiltered opinion on a roughing-the-passer call that seemed to benefit Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Jason didn’t mince words:
“Can I comment on it, though, right? Of course. I think the second one was completely, just like, absolutley ridiculous, right? I mean he didn’t even get touched. I don’t know. They just missed it.”
Even when Travis chimed in to defend the call, saying Mahomes was indeed touched, Jason stood firm, calling the contact minimal and the decision by referees overly harsh.
Patrick Mahomes Admits to Sideline ‘Flop’
While the Texans faced penalties for questionable hits, one play involving Mahomes himself added fuel to the fire. Late in the game, Mahomes scrambled toward the sideline and exaggerated contact by flailing his arms—a clear attempt to draw a flag.
The refs didn’t bite, and Mahomes later owned up to his theatrics:
“I would say that the only one I felt like I probably did too much was the one on the sideline where I didn’t get a flag, and the ref saw it and didn’t throw a flag. And I understood it immediately and know that I probably shouldn’t have done that.”
Travis and Jason’s Playful Debate
The Kelce brothers didn’t shy away from discussing the incident, offering both sides of the debate. While Travis felt Mahomes was indeed touched, Jason argued that the call didn’t warrant a penalty:
“I could see what they saw, but it wasn’t really that much contact. In slow motion, it looked like nothing. It was a bad call.”
The Bigger Picture
The incident has sparked broader conversations about NFL officiating and the fine line between protecting quarterbacks and letting the game flow naturally. The Chiefs ultimately secured a win, but the debate around these calls will likely linger into the postseason.
For now, fans can count on the Kelce brothers to keep the conversation fun and fiery, with their podcast remaining a must-listen for football enthusiasts.
Also read – NFL Vet John Spytek Joins Raiders as GM: What’s His Connection with Tom Brady?
