The NFL’s first Divisional Round matchup between the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills delivered high drama, but a controversial overtime call ultimately decided the game. Josh Allen’s deep pass to Brandin Cooks was ruled an interception after a contested catch with Ja’Quan McMillian, a decision that immediately sparked outrage across social media.
Many believed Cooks had secured the ball while going to the ground, and the call quickly became one of the most debated moments of the postseason. Former wide receiver Terrell Owens added fuel to the controversy, accusing the NFL of rigging games as the Broncos advanced to the AFC Championship Game.
Terrell Owens Alleges NFL Games Are “Rigged”
After blowing a late lead at home, the Broncos were kept alive by late-game heroics from quarterback Bo Nix before Buffalo forced overtime. However, the officiating in the extra period quickly became the focal point.
Denver’s opening overtime possession stalled, forcing the Broncos to rely on their defense. They delivered, forcing their fifth turnover of the night, this one coming on Allen’s deep pass that was ruled an interception by McMillian.
Replays showed Cooks initially securing the ball before McMillian wrestled it away as both players fell to the ground. While officials ruled it an interception, many analysts and former players strongly disagreed.
“I have never seen a contested catch like this ever be called anything but a catch,” wrote former Super Bowl champion Richard Sherman. “Even as a DB you know that if it’s even a Tie it will go to the WR. Can’t believe this decided the game.”
Bills fans erupted in frustration, with accusations of favoritism and poor officiating circulating online. Owens escalated the conversation with a blunt post of his own.
“NOTHING BUT FACTS! @NFLOfficiating @NFL And the @nfl wonder why people think these games are rigged!! @BuffaloBills yall got straight hosed!!” he wrote.
NOTHING BUT FACTS! @NFLOfficiating @NFL
And the @nfl wonder why people think these games are rigged!! @BuffaloBills yall got straight hosed!! https://t.co/C3WHJ7ZoeG— Terrell Owens (@terrellowens) January 19, 2026
That turnover proved decisive. Denver capitalized on the short field, driving into range for the game-winning field goal to secure a 33–30 victory and advance to the AFC Championship Game, where they will now host the New England Patriots on Jan. 25.
While the overturned moment will be debated throughout the offseason, Buffalo’s own mistakes loomed just as large in the loss. The Bills committed five turnovers against one of the league’s top defenses, leaving little margin for error in a postseason game of this magnitude and turning the season-ending game into another painful “what if” for Buffalo.
