The Kansas City Chiefs are onto their third consecutive Super Bowl, looking to make history by becoming the first NFL team to win back-to-back-to-back Lombardi trophies.
But before Kansas City has its date with destiny, linebacker Drue Tranquill is delivering a special message to any and all Chiefs detractors who believe the team receives special treatment from referees.
“Kick rocks,” Tranquill tweeted after the Chiefs’ 32-29 victory over the Buffalo Bills in Sunday’s AFC Championship Game.
The subject of officiating and how much the Chiefs’ success is tied to favorable calls has long been a topic of discussion during their recent dominance. But the Chiefs don’t care — they’re a well-oiled machine at this point led by two of the best coaches around in Andy Reid and Steve Spagnuolo. And make no mistake about it, Kansas City is a well-coached bunch.
Drue Tranquill takes shot at Dave Portnoy over fourth down controversy
But still, there are many who aren’t bought in on their greatness. Following one of the more controversial moments of the Chiefs’ victory over the Bills, Dave Portnoy threatened a boycott of the NFL when Buffalo was ruled short on a fourth down conversion attempt. The Barstool Sports founder and owner placed a $1 million wager for the Bills to win the Super Bowl, so he needed Buffalo to win Sunday. Tensions were high.
With the Bills up 22-21, quarterback Josh Allen tried to convert a fourth down play, but was ruled short. And after review, he was still ruled short. However, some believed he got enough for a first down, including the broadcast team on CBS Sports.
In the ensuing moments, the Chiefs promptly marched down the field. A Patrick Mahomes rushing touchdown gave them the lead at 29-22. While the Bills battled back and tied the game 29-29 after giving up a score, they eventually fell. Many believe the fourth down stop was the turning point of the contest.
Despite the replay confirming the call on the field, Tranquill felt the need to respond to Portnoy on social media.
“Should have taken your $1M from #TrumpCoin and taken a nice vacation,” Tranquill clapped back. “He didn’t get it & you know it. Go Chiefs.”
