In a dramatic face-off between Zach Wilson and Patrick Mahomes this Sunday in the match between the Jets and the Chiefs, the final moments of the game unfolded in a way that left both fans and the broader NFL community raising eyebrows about the role of officiating. Despite an unfortunate fumble by Zach Wilson with less than eight minutes left, the Jets’ potential comeback seemed commendable, until questionable officiating decisions turned the tide.
The Kansas City Chiefs capitalized on a 15-play drive that consumed the last seven minutes and 24 seconds of the game. The drive saw a crucial play where Patrick Mahomes executed an impressive 3rd-and-23 conversion, displaying his scrambling abilities.
However, the play appeared to include offensive holding, which went uncalled. Subsequently, a borderline defensive holding call on Sauce Gardner negated a potential interception, further fueling the controversy. Mahomes proceeded to secure one more third-down conversion, allowing the Chiefs to secure the victory with a kneel-down.
On social media, fans weighed in on the contentious officiating. Many likened Mahomes’ treatment to that of legendary quarterback Tom Brady, implying a level of protection that allowed for game-changing plays. He stated, “Mahomes is the new Brady. Get used to it.”
Mahomes is the new Brady. Get used to it. #NFLAnnointed
— The_Dunkin_Dad (@the_dunkin_dad) October 2, 2023
Critics highlighted the delayed penalty call, suggesting that it was conveniently timed after the Jets’ potential interception, drawing parallels to the protection often associated with Brady, “Mahomes quite literally threw up a prayer and the ref waited until the #Jets picked it off to throw the flag. It’s Brady levels of protection“.
Fans expressed frustration over the impact of officiating on the game’s outcome, as “I’m sick… refs just completely ruined the end of the game… The Jets are being held constantly and they call a ghost hold on Sauce????? And it’s an interception… just affected the entire outcome of the game… 0 accountability,” calling out what they deemed a lack of accountability.
The controversial holding call also drew ire, with fans labeling it as “That’s a horrible holding call,” and also commenting like, “Robert Saleh knows it. Everyone on the #Jets sideline knows it. The refs decided this game. Referee saw the INT and threw the flag after it happened. Decided the game. NFL should be embarrassed. This was disgusting.”
Robert Saleh knows it. Everyone on the #Jets sideline knows it. The refs decided this game.
Referee saw the INT and threw the flag after it happened. Decided the game.
NFL should be embarrassed. This was disgusting.
— The Jet Press (@TheJetPress) October 2, 2023
These reactions underscore the importance of consistent and fair officiating in the NFL. The controversial calls in this game have reignited a broader conversation about the role and impact of referees on high-stakes matchups. As the league and its fans seek answers, the need for transparency and consistency in officiating becomes increasingly apparent to uphold the integrity of the game.
Tom Brady’s Favorable Officiating History Fuels Comparisons to Patrick Mahomes as the “New Brady”
While comparing the similar conversation that has emerged regarding Patrick Mahomes, Brady has been the face of numerous triumphs and controversies alike. One recurring theme in discussions surrounding Brady is the perception that officials often favor the quarterback and his teams, leading to crucial calls going in their favor. This sentiment has been echoed by opposing teams and their fans, who believe Brady has been bailed out by officiating decisions more than once.
Just as critics have pointed to favorable treatment towards Tom Brady, they are now drawing parallels to Mahomes, suggesting that he too benefits from a level of protection from referees. The recent game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the New York Jets has brought this discussion to the forefront.
One notable instance in Brady’s career is the infamous “tuck rule game” against the Oakland Raiders during his time with the New England Patriots.
Tom Brady going at the refs for not setup the ball, he said i am ready set up the damn ball #TampaBayBuccaneers pic.twitter.com/DheRshNXhx
— vexan (@treeshardar) October 9, 2022
In that playoff game, a fumble by Brady, which should have granted possession to the Raiders and likely altered the course of the game, was controversially ruled an incomplete pass. This decision, favoring the Patriots, ultimately played a significant role in their victory and subsequent Super Bowl triumph.
Tell me something honest…
“The ‘Tuck Rule Game’ against the Raiders… Might have been a fumble.” – @TomBrady 🤫
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) May 5, 2022
Drawing a parallel between Brady’s favorable calls and the recent debates about Patrick Mahomes, it becomes evident that both quarterbacks have experienced controversial calls that have influenced game outcomes. These controversies have fueled the belief among fans and critics alike that these quarterbacks receive a level of protection from referees, granting them crucial advantages in critical moments.
As discussions surrounding Mahomes being dubbed the “new Brady” gain momentum, the echoes of past controversies involving Brady and favorable calls emphasize the importance of consistent and fair officiating in the NFL. Whether it’s Brady or Mahomes, ensuring a level playing field is fundamental to preserving the integrity and competitiveness of the game.