The overall consensus was that the officiating in the New England Patriots’ Week 16 matchup against the Buffalo Bills was subpar.
One of the first controversial calls was regarding an unnecessary roughness penalty against Mac Jones that was called back after discussion. Following the play, Trent Brown was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and the Patriots lost an additional 15 yards — creating a 30-yard swing.
Later on in the game, Bills linebacker Matt Milano drew a penalty for a late hit on Jones. Patriots center David Andrews defended his quarterback and got in Milano’s face — resulting in an immediate taunting penalty.
Julian Edelman led the charge of fans and media members that didn’t agree with the call.
What ever you do don’t talk to the opposing team these days… #whatarewedoing refs
— Julian Edelman (@Edelman11) December 26, 2021
Matt Milano got flagged for the hit, but David Andrews got flagged for "taunting."
That's another big penalty on the Patriot's offensive line. The crowd is chanting "bullshit." I agree.
— Mark Daniels (@MarkDanielsPJ) December 26, 2021
David Andrews got flagged for defending Mac Jones after a late hit. If Andrews doesn't do that, he gets ripped for not having his QB's back. Absolutely no feel for the game by this officiating crew.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) December 26, 2021
Taunting is the dumbest penalty, and one of the most poorly officiated. Sheesh.
— Andrew Callahan (@_AndrewCallahan) December 26, 2021
In the NFL's eyes, a cheap shot on the QB is the equivalent of jawing in the face of the person who delivered the cheap shot on the QB. These are the rules.
— Michael Hurley (@michaelFhurley) December 26, 2021
Not a good day for Shawn Smith's crew.
— Ryan Hannable (@RyanHannable) December 26, 2021
The referees should have a contact drunkness with how much beer Patriots fans at Gillette should be showering them with.
— Boston Cream 🍩 (@itsbostoncream) December 26, 2021
The referee crew in this Bills/Patriots game is atrocious. pic.twitter.com/cdCuzJ38Fq
— Shea Castle (@shea_castle) December 26, 2021
