NFL referees breaks silence after facing constant criticism for unfairly favoring Chiefs ahead of Super Bowl 59

 Statement from NFL Referees Association
Scott Green, executive director of the NFL Referees Association (NFLRA), issued a statement supporting Goodell’s remarks and rejecting any claims of officiating bias.

“Commissioner Goodell’s comments that it is ‘ridiculous’ to presume that NFL Officials are not doing everything possible to make the right call on every play is spot on,” Green stated. “Officiating crews do not work the same team more than twice each regular season. It is insulting and preposterous to hear conspiracy theories that somehow 17 officiating crews consisting of 138 officials are colluding to assist one team.”

 

 

Green emphasized that officials are graded meticulously each week based on every single play they oversee. These evaluations determine postseason assignments, ensuring that only the bestperforming referees officiate critical games.

 Chiefs' Success Fuels Speculation
Despite the NFLRA’s firm denial, speculation surrounding the Chiefs and their treatment by referees has been ongoing. Since Patrick Mahomes took over as the starting quarterback in 2018, Kansas City has compiled a remarkable 173 playoff record, including three Super Bowl titles.

A significant point of contention among critics is the penalty differential in Chiefs’ postseason games. In 20 playoff matchups under Mahomes, Kansas City has received more penalty yardage than its opponents only three times. Over the past 12 playoff games, the Chiefs’ opponents have been penalized more in 11 instances, with one game resulting in an equal penalty count.

 Viral Moments and Fan Frustration
The perception of officiating favoritism has led to widespread discussion online, often in a humorous light. Former Boston radio host Rich Shertenlieb recently joked about the topic during a media session with Mahomes and tight end Travis Kelce.

“Patrick, for your whole career you have had so many great people help you win,” Shertenlieb asked. “So, who is your favorite ref?”

 

Mahomes laughed and responded, “That’s hilarious. All the refs are great, man. They do the best they can. And we go out there and play the game the right way.”

 

Kelce, however, was less amused when asked, “Travis, what do you love more: Taylor Swift or phantom 15yard roughing the passer penalties in the playoffs?” The star tight end quickly brushed off the question, replying, “That’s a good question. Anybody else?”

 

 

 Chiefs’ Penalty Trends
While accusations persist, the Chiefs’ penalty history does not present a clear pattern of favoritism. In 2018, they led the league in penalties and penalty yards, accumulating 137 flags for 1,152 yards. Since then, they have generally ranked in the middle of the league in penalty calls. However, during the 2023 regular season, Kansas City was one of the least penalized teams, recording 94 infractions (fourthlowest in the league) for 829 yards (11th lowest).