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Chiefs’ season opener sparks conspiracy theories about officiating

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 4:27 PM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Chiefs’ season opener sparks conspiracy theories about officiating

Summary

The Kansas City Chiefs won their season opener against the Denver Broncos on September 14, with a score of 31-10. Following the game, several individuals expressed skepticism regarding the officiating, pointing to an alleged missed holding call during a key touchdown play. Critics claim the Chiefs received special treatment from referees, though many defend the team, stating that missed calls happen in every game. There is no evidence to support the conspiracy theories. The Chiefs now prepare to face the Indianapolis Colts at home on September 20.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Chiefs defeated Broncos 31-10 in season opener on September 14.
•Critics allege missed holding call contributed to victory.
•Defenders argue missed calls are common in NFL games.
•No evidence or investigation supports conspiracy claims.
•Chiefs next face the Colts on September 20.

Latest Updates

4:27 PMYahoo Sports — New NFL Conspiracy Claims Kansas City Chiefs Season Opener Was Rigged: ‘Hats Off to the Refs’

What they're saying

"
Several people were skeptical of the Kansas City Chiefs’ first win of the season. It’s not the first time the Patrick Mahomes-led team has been accused of receiving special treatment from referees to help them win, and it likely won’t be the last. However, after the Monday, September 14, season opener for the Kansas City […]
— Yahoo Sports

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Denver Broncos Indianapolis Colts Kansas City Chiefs NFL Football