Questionable Calls Mar Broncos’ Overtime Win Over Commanders on SNF

The Denver Broncos defeated the Washington Commanders 24-23 in overtime on Sunday Night Football. The game was decided by a failed two-point conversion attempt by Washington. A series of controversial officiating decisions in the final minutes of regulation, however, became the main story.

According to NBC’s broadcast and replay analysis, multiple calls went against Washington during their critical final drive. This has sparked significant discussion about NFL officiating consistency in high-stakes moments.

Key Controversial Moments Under Review

The controversy began late in the fourth quarter. Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota was tripped and ruled down by contact after a replay review. Rules expert Terry McAulay noted the trip was clear but officials cannot call a penalty from replay.

Washington was forced to punt. They got the ball back with three minutes left. On a key play, a potential pass interference against Denver’s Patrick Surtain was not called. The NBC broadcast team highlighted the missed call.

Two more contentious flags followed quickly. Receiver Terry McLaurin was called for a false start that replay showed did not happen. On the next play, Mariota was flagged for intentional grounding. McAulay stated the throw was legally toward a receiver and “absolutely not grounding” by rule.

Broader Impact on the Game and League

These calls drastically changed Washington’s final drive. A first-and-10 situation became second-and-25 with a 10-second runoff. The drive still reached the red zone, but Washington only managed a field goal as time expired.

The sequence raises questions about the officiating process. While no single call guarantees a different outcome, the cumulative effect shifted momentum and field position. It impacted a primetime game with playoff implications for Denver.

For the league, it represents another high-profile officiating debate. Consistency in crucial late-game situations remains a focal point for fans and analysts. The NFL’s replay and communication systems will likely be scrutinized following this game.

The Broncos secured a vital win, but the narrative is dominated by officiating. This NFL officiating controversy highlights the ongoing challenge of achieving consistency in fast-paced, high-pressure games. Such moments continue to fuel debate about the role of technology and judgment in professional sports.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What was the most controversial call?

The intentional grounding penalty on Marcus Mariota was heavily disputed. NBC rules analyst Terry McAulay explicitly said the throw was legal and the call was incorrect, changing the drive’s dynamics.

Can penalties be called after a replay review?

No. Under current NFL rules, officials cannot initiate a penalty flag based solely on what they see during a replay review. They can only adjust the spot of the ball or ruling of a play.

Did the Commanders have other chances to win?

Yes. Washington still forced overtime with a field goal and had a two-point conversion attempt to win in OT. The controversial calls affected their final regulation drive, but did not eliminate their chances.

What has the NFL said about the calls?

As of this reporting, the league has not issued an official statement or apology. Typically, the NFL addresses significant officiating errors in its weekly internal pool report distributed to media.

Does this affect the playoff picture?

Denver’s win helps them keep pace in the AFC. A Washington win would have significantly damaged Denver’s postseason positioning, amplifying the impact of the late-game sequence.