NFL referee explains penalty on Texans for hit on Chiefs' Mahomes in playoff victory
NFL referee Clay Martin clarified a penalty called on the Houston Texans during the Chiefs' playoff game. He stated that quarterback Patrick Mahomes was "considered defenseless" while sliding, leading to a 15-yard penalty against linebacker Henry To'oTo'o. The penalty occurred in the third quarter after To'oTo'o hit Mahomes as he slid. This call allowed the Chiefs to score a touchdown on the drive, contributing to their 23-14 victory over the Texans. With this win, the Chiefs secured a spot in the AFC Championship Game. The explanation of the penalty highlights the league's focus on player safety, particularly for quarterbacks in vulnerable positions.