Taylor Swift told Chiefs association influencing NFL referees after controversial calls made
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ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith has suggested that Taylor Swift's association with the Kansas City Chiefs could be influencing NFL referees' decisions on the field.
The controversial claim follows Kansas City's playoff victory over the Houston Texans, where two disputed calls in favour of the Chiefs sparked outrage among fans.
Smith pointed to Swift's relationship with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and her immense popularity as potential factors behind what some fans are calling 'rigged' officiating.
During Saturday's game, fans were particularly incensed by two penalties called against the Texans for tackles on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Taylor Swift's presence might be influencing referees in the NFL, says Stephen A. Smith
Reuters
ESPN commentator Troy Aikman said he "couldn't disagree more" with an unnecessary roughing call during the third quarter.
Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy branded one of the controversial decisions a "disgrace".
The disputed calls occurred as Swift watched from her private suite at Arrowhead Stadium.
Speaking on ESPN's First Take, Smith elaborated on his theory about the controversial calls.
"We're gonna bring up the popularity of Patrick Mahomes because of his greatness, we're gonna bring up the fact that he has box-office appeal," Smith said.
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"We're gonna bring up the fact that Taylor Swift being a Chiefs fan and the lady of Travis Kelce doesn't hurt," he continued.
Smith clarified that whilst he wasn't suggesting intentional bias, he understood why opposing fans might question the decisions.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans took aim at the officiating after the match, suggesting his team faced opposition from "everybody" at Arrowhead.
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Travis Kelce's relationship with Taylor Swift is well-documented in the US press
Reuters
Defensive end Will Anderson Jr, who received one of the controversial penalties for his tackle on Mahomes, was more direct in his criticism.
Anderson claimed Houston knew it would be "us against the refs" in Kansas City.
"If you're DeMeco Ryans you can't say that. If you're one of the players you can't say that. But ain't nobody fining me for it," Smith added.
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Taylor Swift regularly attends Chiefs games
Reuters
Swift was filmed arriving at Arrowhead Stadium with her parents, Scott and Andrea, and brother Austin, ahead of Kelce's own arrival.
The pop star was seen encouraging Chiefs fans as she made her way to her luxury suite, telling them: "How's it going? You guys are here early."
During the game, Swift watched alongside WNBA star Caitlin Clark, with the pair celebrating together when Kelce scored a touchdown.
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