Football fans are alleging that the NFL referees “rigged” the Cincinnati Bengals’ 30-24 overtime victory over the Denver Broncos on Saturday, following a series of controversial calls.
In the game, officials flagged 10 penalties, with the Broncos receiving seven penalties totaling 35 yards and the Bengals getting three for 15 yards. Several decisions raised eyebrows, leading some fans to believe the game was manipulated in favor of Cincinnati. One key moment involved a no-call on Josh Newton despite apparent contact while defending Courtland Sutton.
Accusations of bias towards the home team flooded social media, with fans voicing frustration:
“Don’t expect Denver to get one call… Roger ‘Vince McMahon’ Goodell can’t have the playoff teams set before week 18,” one commenter said.
“Refs helped the Bengals to keep them in playoff contention,” claimed another.
“This bailout call on third and long for the Bengals is unbelievable. The NFL is rigged,” a user posted.
“NFL is rigged. Refs handed this one to the Bengals on a SILVER PLATTER. BENGALS BY 10,” wrote another fan.
Despite the outcry, the Broncos are ultimately responsible for their own shortcomings. Their defense struggled throughout the game, and the offense only found rhythm in the second half. Denver only needed a tie to secure a postseason spot, but the Bengals capitalized on poor decision-making in overtime and mismanagement of the clock to secure the win.
