Controversial Interception Call Costs Bills in OT Playoff Loss to Broncos

Buffalo coach Sean McDermott blasts officials for not reviewing a potential game-winning catch in the final seconds.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 12:15pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the key moments of the Bills-Broncos overtime playoff game, with sharp, overlapping planes representing the intense action and controversy of the final play.A cubist interpretation of the controversial final seconds of the Bills-Broncos playoff game, where a disputed call altered the outcome and sparked outrage.Denver Today

In a heart-stopping NFL playoff game, the Buffalo Bills lost to the Denver Broncos in overtime after a controversial call by the officials. With the game tied and Buffalo driving for a potential game-winning score, Bills wide receiver Brandin Cooks appeared to make a catch that would have given the team the victory. However, the officials ruled it an interception, a decision that Bills coach Sean McDermott vehemently disputed, arguing the play should have been reviewed. McDermott's frustration centered on the lack of a thorough review process and the impact the call had on the outcome of the game.

Why it matters

This controversial call has sparked intense debate among fans and analysts, raising broader questions about the fairness and transparency of NFL officiating. The decision not only cost the Bills a potential playoff win, but also highlighted the need for the league to reevaluate its review protocols to ensure critical plays are properly adjudicated, especially in high-stakes moments.

The details

In overtime, with the game tied, Bills quarterback Josh Allen launched a pass downfield that wide receiver Brandin Cooks appeared to secure, with one knee down and control of the ball. However, Broncos cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian stripped the ball away, and the officials ruled it an interception. Bills coach Sean McDermott argued that Cooks had completed the catch, and that the play should have been reviewed, but overtime rules prohibit challenges. The officials explained that Cooks did not complete the catch process as he was going to the ground and lost possession, while McMillian was credited with the interception.

  • The controversial play occurred in overtime of the Bills-Broncos playoff game on April 12, 2026.

The players

Sean McDermott

The head coach of the Buffalo Bills, who vehemently disputed the officials' call and questioned the lack of a thorough review process.

Josh Allen

The quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, who threw the pass that led to the controversial play.

Brandin Cooks

The wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills, who appeared to make the catch that was ruled an interception.

Ja'Quan McMillian

The cornerback for the Denver Broncos, who was credited with the game-changing interception.

Carl Cheffers

The head referee who explained the officials' ruling on the controversial play.

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What they’re saying

“That play is not even close. That's a catch all the way... and nobody can convince me that that ball is not caught and in possession of Buffalo.”

— Sean McDermott, Head Coach, Buffalo Bills

“I feel like I finished through the pocket like I'm coached to do.”

— Tre'Davious White, Cornerback, Buffalo Bills

What’s next

The NFL is expected to review the controversial call and officiating process, with potential changes to review protocols and rules around overtime challenges.

The takeaway

This game-changing call has reignited the debate around the fairness and transparency of NFL officiating, with fans and analysts questioning whether the league needs to reevaluate its review procedures to ensure critical plays are properly adjudicated, especially in high-stakes playoff moments.