Troy Aikman Criticizes NFL Referees for Favoring Patrick Mahomes During Chiefs-Commanders Game

During the Kansas City Chiefs' 28-7 victory over the Washington Commanders, ESPN commentator Troy Aikman highlighted what he perceives as preferential treatment by NFL referees toward Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The notable incident involved a late penalty for unnecessary roughness on Commanders defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton, who threw Mahomes to the ground after the whistle, effectively benefiting Kansas City by extending their possession. Aikman remarked that while the penalty call was justified, quarterbacks like Mahomes receive extra protection, a view echoed by fans but contested by commentator Joe Buck, who called the call "easy" and "obvious." Despite Mahomes' rough start with two interceptions, he led a strong second-half performance with three touchdown drives, pushing the Chiefs to a 5-3 record. The discussion about officiating bias reflects broader league tendencies to protect star quarterbacks, amplified by the Chiefs' frequent national TV appearances. This scrutiny underscores ongoing debates about fair officiating and quarterback safety in the NFL.