**49ERS: Terrell Owens Exposes NFL for “Blatant Blatant Calls” Favoring Kansas City Chiefs, Igniting Super Bowl LIX Controversy**

Former NFL star and Hall of Fame wide receiver Terrell Owens has ignited a firestorm of controversy ahead of Super Bowl LIX, accusing the league of “blatant blatant calls” in favor of the Kansas City Chiefs[4][5][7]. Owens’ comments, resurfacing just days before the Chiefs are set to face the Philadelphia Eagles, have sparked fierce debate and renewed scrutiny over NFL officiating[2][4].

**”Blatant Blatant Calls” – Owens Sounds Off**

Owens didn’t hold back during a recent appearance, alleging the NFL has shown “blatant” favoritism towards the Chiefs and superstar quarterback Patrick Mahomes[2]. He specifically pointed to the AFC Divisional Round game against the Houston Texans, highlighting a “soft roughing the passer call” against Texans pass rusher Will Anderson[2][1]. Owens believes Mahomes is “smart” and knows how to draw flags, even when minimal contact occurs[2][4]. “He didn’t even get hit,” Owens said, criticizing the 15-yard penalty that he believes shifted the game’s momentum[2][7].

**Drawing from His Own Experience**

Owens has been talking about similar NFL experiences he had while with the Buffalo Bills back in 2009[3]. Owens also expressed his frustration regarding key moments where officiating decisions appeared to favor Kansas City during the AFC Championship Game, where the Buffalo Bills fell short to the Chiefs[3]. One instance being a controversial catch awarded to Chiefs’ WR Xavier Worthy, despite video evidence suggesting the ball had touched the ground before he gained possession near the goal line[3].

**A Pattern of Favoritism?**

Owens didn’t limit his criticism to just one game[7]. He suggested a pattern of calls favoring the Chiefs, extending back to previous Super Bowls[7][1]. “You can even go back to the last couple of Super Bowls, even when the Niners played the Super Bowl. Look at all the holding calls,” Owens stated[7]. He alleges missed holding calls against the Chiefs, claiming players were “getting clotheslined” without penalties being called[7].

**The NFL’s Defense**

The NFL Referees Association has publicly denounced claims of favoritism towards the Chiefs, calling the allegations “insulting and preposterous”[2][1]. However, Owens’ comments reflect a broader sentiment that officiating has unduly influenced the Chiefs’ performance in key games[1].

**Impact on Super Bowl LIX**

Owens’ outspoken views raise critical questions about the integrity of the game[1]. As concerns over perceived favoritism mount, the NFL faces a delicate challenge in addressing these claims to maintain its credibility heading into Super Bowl LIX[1]. The scrutiny on officiating standards may increase, potentially impacting the game’s narrative[1].

**Fan Reaction**

Owens’ remarks have sparked mixed reactions[5]. Some fans and analysts believe he’s voicing long-held suspicions about elite teams and quarterbacks receiving preferential treatment[5]. Others dismiss his statements as conspiracy theories fueled by frustration[5]. Regardless, Owens’ comments have intensified scrutiny on the NFL as the Chiefs prepare for their biggest game of the year[5].