Joe Burrow's Reaction to Controversial Penalty During Bengals-Chiefs Says It All

The Cincinnati Bengals were hoping to avoid falling 0-2 to start the season. Unfortunately, they took on the defending Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. It was a close game that came down to the wire, but Kansas City prevailed, winning the contest 26-25.

Although Kansas City is one of the best teams in the league, many fans believe the referees help them out a little too often. Over the years, the Chiefs have received some favorable calls in close games.

That seemed to be the case once again on Sunday during Kansas City's game-winning drive. Patrick Mahomes threw the ball down the field but it got tipped up into the air.

It appeared that Bengals rookie, Daijahn Anthony had made early contact with Chiefs receiver, Rashee Rice. But the refs didn't initially throw the flag. Once the ball landed on the ground and was ruled an incomplete pass, a referee then called the penalty.

Shortly after the call was made, the camera cut to Joe Burrow. The Bengals quarterback initially celebrated, as he believed it was an incomplete pass. However, once the flag was thrown, Burrow angrily turned around and slammed his helmet on the ground.

When it comes down to it, a defender cannot run into a receiver like that before the ball reaches his hands. It's technically the right call.

However, the reason why it's controversial is because the flag came out so late. Additionally, numerous NFL fans already believe the Chiefs get more favorable calls than not. So, that's certainly not helping the situation either.

The Bengals are now 0-2 and have an uphill climb to get back above .500. At the very least, Cincinnati looked better on Sunday than they did in Week 1 after losing to the New England Patriots 10-16.

They'll move on with the Washington Commanders next on the schedule. It will be the Bengals' second home game this season and they're now desperate for a win.

The AFC North is still a tough division. Right now, the Pittsburgh Steelers lead the way with a 2-0 record. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns are in second at 1-1. That leaves the Bengals surprisingly tied in last place with the Baltimore Ravens, as they each have 0-2 records.

Related: Ja'Marr Chase Under Fire for Late-Game Actions Against Chiefs