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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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Two-time NFL MVP Patrick Mahomes led the Kansas City Chiefs to a 24-10 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, and a controversial call involving the star quarterback drew plenty of backlash.
With the Chiefs backed up deep in their own territory on a third-down play, Mahomes dropped back into the end zone to throw. Dolphins edge rusher Chop Robinson delivered a huge tackle, wrapping his arms around Mahomes' midsection and taking him to the ground with a hard hit.
In the process, Robinson seemingly landed on Mahomes with his body weight. However, when a replay was shown, commentators noted that Robinson appeared to extend his arms to avoid landing on the Chiefs quarterback with his full body weight.
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A commentator also pointed out that Robinson didn't hit Mahomes in the "head or neck" on the tackle. Still, flags immediately flew after the hit, and the Dolphins were called for roughing the passer.
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The call came on a third-down play in the third quarter with the Chiefs leading 14-10. Fans expressed frustration with what they believed was favorable officiating that benefited Mahomes and the Chiefs on the play.
"Another blessing from above, eh, Chiefs? What a [expletive] joke. Week in, week out," a commenter replied to an X video showing the controversial call.
"The first flag almost hit the ground before Patrick lol, ref started to throw it for just being in Mahomes' personal space," another commenter said.
Another individual commented, "Hilarious how much @NFLOfficiating is favoring Mahomes and company."
Other commenters wrote, "Terrible call. It’s only because it’s Mahomes. That was a legal clean hit ALL day long," and "Just give the Chiefs the Super Bowl."
Based on numerous commenters' reactions, many fans felt Mahomes and Kansas City regularly benefit from the referees. That has been a frequent complaint among Chiefs detractors, especially after they became a dynasty in the NFL.
However, accusations of referees giving favorable calls to star players or successful teams often extend to other polarizing figures in sports.
While many are frustrated with Kansas City, Chiefs supporters are happy to have Mahomes back healthy after he suffered a difficult, season-ending injury last year. He immediately underwent surgery and rehabilitation and was back in time for Week 1 of the 2026 season.
With Mahomes back, Kansas City is off to a 3-0 start after giving the Dolphins their third loss of the season. Next up, Mahomes and the Chiefs will visit the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, Oct. 4, while the Dolphins attempt to get their first win at the Minnesota Vikings.
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