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Rachel Bush, wife of Bills safety Jordan Poyer, didn't hold back on criticizing the officiating during the Buffalo Bills' nail-biting 37-34 overtime loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Taking to social media during the game, Bush expressed her frustration, especially focusing on a call in the second quarter that she believed cost the Bills a touchdown.
"I haven't said a word about the refs all year, but that loss of a TD is on them. This game will 100% be on them if it comes down to that," Bush vented on her Instagram Story, questioning when the ability for officiating decisions will be addressed.
She honed in on a specific play involving Bills quarterback Josh Allen, where he was flagged for intentional grounding despite a questionable interaction with Eagles linebacker Haason Reddick.
Bush shared a fan's observation on her Instagram Story, stating, "Josh Allen's jersey is completely torn. Not sure how it's not a horse-collar. The ref had a perfect view too lmao. Insane."
Bush further emphasized her frustration, adding, "But it's intentional grounding now!! Gtfoh!!"
The Instagram Story also featured posts from other fans, including one suggesting Eagles head coach Nick Sirriani's conversation with officials and a comment from former Eagles linebacker Emmanuel Acho questioning if any calls had gone against the Eagles.
In the aftermath of the game, Bills head coach Sean McDermott acknowledged the team's shortcomings, saying, "We didn't make enough plays. We didn't do enough or make enough plays and do enough on the coaching end."
Despite the loss, McDermott emphasized the resilience of his team.
The Bills, now the 10th seed in the AFC playoff race, face a challenging road ahead. The defeat, compounded by numerous penalties, adds pressure to their playoff aspirations.
The Buffalo Bills' defeat to the Eagles wasn't solely due to the officiating, but the impact of referee Shawn Hochuli's crew was evident.
By halftime, the Bills had already accumulated 10 penalties for 75 yards, challenging their ability to secure a victory.
Although they rallied in the second half and overtime, the recurrent officiating decisions left a bitter taste.
Bills still hopeful to make playoffs
The Bills, with a 6-6 record, head into their bye week with playoff hopes hanging by a thread. The game against the Kansas City Chiefs presents a crucial test for the team.
In a season where every game counts, the Bills must navigate a tough homestretch schedule and contend not only with opponents but also with the officiating.
The margin for error is slim in the competitive AFC, and the Bills need near-perfection to stay in the playoff race.