Buffalo Bills coach Sean McDermott expressed frustration with officiating following a controversial call that contributed to his team’s playoff elimination against the Denver Broncos. The Bills lost 33-30 in overtime on March 23, 2024, and McDermott was particularly incensed about a pivotal interception involving wide receiver Brandin Cooks.
After the game, McDermott reviewed the key play multiple times and remained adamant that Cooks made a completed catch during overtime. “That play is not even close. That’s a catch all the way… and nobody can convince me that that ball is not caught and in possession of Buffalo,” he stated in a postgame interview. He emphasized the need for an explanation from the NFL, stating, “I think the players and the fans deserve an explanation.”
The controversial moment occurred during the Bills’ only offensive possession in the extra period. Quarterback Josh Allen attempted a pass downfield on third-and-11 from the Buffalo 36-yard line. Cooks caught the ball, appearing to establish possession and go down by contact. However, Broncos cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian wrested the ball away, leading to a ruling of interception.
McMillian described the play, saying, “He had a step on me and I just fought through the hands and finished the play.” He added, “He actually had the ball coming down, and once I had my hand on the ball I was able to take it from him.” This ruling shifted the momentum and allowed the Broncos to take possession at the 20-yard line.
McDermott noted that, due to NFL rules, teams cannot challenge calls in overtime. He opted to call a timeout in an attempt to ensure the officials reviewed the play properly. Unfortunately for the Bills, the game officials did not halt the game for a direct review, although league replay officials in New York examined the decision.
Following the game, referee Carl Cheffers provided insight into the ruling. “The receiver has to complete the process of a catch,” Cheffers explained. “He was going to the ground as part of the process of the catch and he lost possession of the ball when he hit the ground. The defender gained possession of it at that point.” Cheffers confirmed that the replay process indicated the ball did not hit the ground during the play.
Although Cooks felt confident he had made the catch, he acknowledged the need for improvement on his part to ensure plays are not left to the discretion of the officials. Several Bills players took to social media to express their belief that Cooks had completed the catch successfully.
McDermott continued to voice his discontent, asserting, “Too big of a play in a play that decided the game, potentially as well, to not even slow it down. That’s why I had to call the timeout.” He concluded with a passionate reminder of his commitment to the team, stating, “I’m saying it because I’m standing up for Buffalo, dammit. I’m standing up for us.”
The Bills’ loss marks yet another early exit in the divisional round of the playoffs, raising questions about the impact of officiating decisions in critical moments. As the team reflects on their performance, the controversy surrounding this particular call will likely be a focal point as they prepare for the next season.
