NFL Rules Explained: Ja'Quan McMillian's Interception vs Brandin Cooks

NFL rules analyst Walt Anderson breaks down the controversial call that has fans and experts debating the fine line between legal interception and pass interference.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:37pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an NFL football play, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes, conveying the complexity and controversy surrounding the officiating call.A controversial NFL officiating decision sparks heated debates over the nuances of the game's rules.Denver Today

The NFL world is buzzing with intense debates and emotional reactions after NFL rules analyst Walt Anderson provided a detailed breakdown of the league's decision to uphold Denver Broncos cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian's interception over Buffalo Bills wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Anderson's analysis on 'NFL GameDay Morning' has sparked controversy, as he shed light on the factors that led to the ruling, offering a rare glimpse into the complex world of NFL officiating.

Why it matters

This ruling has left fans and experts alike scratching their heads, wondering about the intricacies of NFL officiating and the fine line between a legal interception and pass interference. The debate has sparked discussions about the league's decision-making process and the challenges faced by officials in making split-second calls.

The details

In a recent 'NFL GameDay Morning' segment, rules analyst Walt Anderson provided a detailed explanation of the league's thought process in upholding Ja'Quan McMillian's interception over Brandin Cooks. Anderson, a seasoned NFL official, offered a rare glimpse into the complex world of NFL officiating, shedding light on the factors that led to the controversial call.

  • The incident occurred during a recent NFL game between the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills.

The players

Ja'Quan McMillian

A cornerback for the Denver Broncos who made the controversial interception.

Brandin Cooks

A wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills who was involved in the play that led to the interception.

Walt Anderson

A seasoned NFL rules analyst and former NFL official who provided a detailed breakdown of the league's decision-making process.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by NFL officials in making split-second decisions and the need for continued discussions and transparency around the league's officiating processes. The debate over the McMillian-Cooks incident underscores the fine line between legal interceptions and pass interference, raising questions about the consistency and clarity of NFL rules.