Sean McDermott Bills fans label failed fake Damar Hamlin punt worst play call in NFL history
Buffalo Bills coach Sean McDermott's risky fake punt call backfires in playoff loss to Kansas City Chiefs, sparking fan backlash.
Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott made a bold decision in the team's Divisional Round game against the Chiefs. With over 12 minutes left in the game and down 27-24, the Bills were set to punt on a 4th and 5. However, McDermott chose to run a fake punt with safety Damar Hamlin, who fell well short of a first down, resulting in a turnover.
The Bills ultimately lost to the Chiefs by the same score, and many fans, particularly those in the Bills Mafia, questioned McDermott's decision to go for the fake punt instead of punting. Some even called for McDermott's job on social media platforms like Twitter.
Despite the controversial play, the Bills still had a chance to tie the game with under two minutes remaining. However, kicker Tyler Bass missed a 47-yard field goal, allowing the Chiefs to run out the clock for the win.
After the game, McDermott explained his decision, stating that he felt the element of surprise was in their favor in that situation, even though they ultimately didn't execute the play successfully.
As for Damar Hamlin, he has been a candidate for NFL Comeback Player of the Year after overcoming a cardiac arrest last January. He has primarily contributed on special teams throughout the season.
McDermott was hired as the Bills' head coach ahead of the 2017 season and has achieved a regular-season record of 73-41. This season, the Bills finished with an 11-6 record and secured their fourth straight AFC East title. However, the loss to the Chiefs dropped McDermott's playoff record to 5-6, and it marked the third consecutive time the team's season ended in the Divisional Round. Despite leading the Bills to the AFC Championship in the 2020 season, McDermott is now 0-3 against the Chiefs in the playoffs as the Bills' head coach.
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