Refs Facing Intense Backlash for Controversial Penalty That Helped Chiefs Win

The Kansas City Chiefs escaped the Cincinnati Bengals, 26-25, on a walk-off 51-yard field goal by Harrison Butker on Sunday. With the win, Kansas City improved to 2-0 and the Bengals dropped to 0-2 after two weeks of play.

There was controversy late in the fourth quarter as the Chiefs faced a potential game-ending fourth-and-16 at their own 35-yard-line. Mahomes heaved up a pass to wide receiver Rashee Rice, who was contacted early by Bengals safety Daijahn Anthony.

The officials threw a late penalty flag for defensive pass inference, giving the Chiefs 29 additional yards and a fresh set of downs.

Butker kicked the game-winning field goal four plays later.

Reactions immediately pointed the proverbial finger at the crew's controversial decision.

"Give every game to the Chiefs rest of season. Refs in their favor every game. Why play the game if we know results beforehand?" former Bengals receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh wrote on X.

"The Chiefs and late flags to ensure they win the game: name a better duo," a fan wrote .

A flood of memes and videos also hit social media in the moments after the final whistle.

The Barstool Cincinnati account was also among those getting in on the joke .

"Patrick Mahomes always gets the call. It’s his league now. He’s gonna get every call," another account reacted .

Despite the loss, Joe Burrow and the Bengals offense outgained Kansas City in total scrimmage yards, 320 to 286.

Cincinnati will look to get into the win column in Week 3 against the Washington Commanders (1-1).

Related: Joe Burrow Forced to Hold Back Ja’Marr Chase During Heated Exchange With Ref