The New England Patriots are returning to the Super Bowl after a dramatic and weather-ravaged AFC Championship victory over the Denver Broncos, but their trip to Santa Clara has not come without controversy. A single fourth-and-1 decision late in the game has become the focal point of intense debate, overshadowing what was otherwise a gritty, defense-driven contest played in near-blizzard conditions at Empower Field at Mile High.
As snow and wind engulfed the stadium in the second half, offensive production all but disappeared. Only three total points were scored after halftime, and those points delivered via a Patriots field goal proved decisive. That kick gave New England a narrow lead and ultimately sealed their place in Super Bowl LX. However, the drive that produced the field goal hinged on a disputed quarterback sneak by rookie Drake Maye, prompting questions about officiating, replay standards, and the use of emerging technology.
The controversial moment occurred after a third-and-10 screen pass to tight end Hunter Henry fell just short of the line to gain. Rather than punt, head coach Mike Vrabel elected to go for it on fourth-and-1. The Patriots called a quarterback sneak, but Maye appeared to stumble at the snap and was met quickly by the Broncos’ defense. To many viewers, it looked as though he failed to reach the marker.
Officials’ Ruling Stands After Review, Sparking Online Debate and Shaping Championship Outcome
Officials initially ruled the play a first down, though there was visible discussion on the field before the chains were moved. Broncos head coach Sean Payton challenged the call, sending the play to replay review. Overhead camera angles showed the ball extremely close to the line to gain, but not clearly beyond it. With no definitive visual evidence to overturn the ruling, officials allowed the call on the field to stand.
Patriots Weather Blizzard, Controversial Fourth Down Call to Clinch Super Bowl LX BerthThat decision ignited widespread reaction online. Fans and analysts debated not only whether Maye actually converted, but also why the NFL did not use its newer digital measurement technology to more precisely spot the ball. Some social media users also noted what they perceived as conflicting signals from on-field officials, claiming sideline referees initially indicated the play was short before the first down was awarded. Regardless of interpretation, the play became a turning point in a game where margins were razor-thin.
Although the Patriots failed to score a touchdown on that possession, they settled for a short, 23-yard field goal to take a three-point lead. In the brutal conditions, that advantage was enough.
Broncos Strike Early, Patriots’ Defense and Late Poise Ultimately Decide AFC Title
Earlier in the game, Denver showed promise despite adversity. Backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, starting after Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle injury, led the Broncos to the game’s first touchdown. A deep completion to Marvin Mims Jr. flipped the field position and set up a play-action strike to Courtland Sutton. It was a strong response under pressure, but it would be Denver’s lone scoring highlight.
As the weather worsened, ball security and field position became paramount. The Patriots’ defense delivered when it mattered most, stopping the Broncos on a critical fourth-and-1 attempt and later capitalizing on a desperation backward pass by Stidham that was ruled a fumble. New England recovered, and a few plays later, Maye tied the game with a rushing touchdown.
The Patriots’ ability to survive the conditions and seize late opportunities propelled them to another AFC championship. While New England now turns its attention to the NFC Championship matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams, the Broncos are left replaying a handful of “what if” moments, none larger than the fourth-down call that helped define their season’s end.
