Controversial sports analyst Skip Bayless has once again ignited a storm across the NFL community — this time targeting the Denver Broncos’ narrow 21–17 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. The outspoken commentator accused the referees of “handing the game” to Denver after a series of disputed calls late in the fourth quarter that helped the Broncos seal the win.
During Monday’s episode of Undisputed Live, Bayless unleashed his trademark firestorm of criticism, arguing that Denver’s win was “manufactured” by officiating rather than earned on the field.
“That was not a victory — it was a gift,” Bayless said. “The refs practically escorted Denver down the field. The Eagles were robbed, plain and simple.”
Bayless’s comments referred specifically to a controversial defensive pass interference call on third down with less than two minutes remaining. The penalty extended the Broncos’ final drive, which ended in a short touchdown run by rookie quarterback Bo Nix. Eagles fans immediately took to social media, echoing Bayless’s frustration and accusing the league of favoritism.
The backlash was instant and fierce. Within hours, #RefGate and #RiggedForDenver began trending on X (formerly Twitter), as thousands of fans demanded an official review from the NFL. Many argued that the officiating in recent weeks has been “inconsistent and suspicious,” reigniting long-standing debates about the league’s transparency and accountability.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni remained composed during his post-game press conference but didn’t shy away from expressing concern.
“We played our hearts out,” Sirianni said. “I’m not going to comment on officiating, but I think everyone watching saw what happened.”
On the other side, Bo Nix defended his team’s performance and dismissed the notion that the win was tainted.
“People can say what they want,” Nix stated. “We made the plays when it mattered. That’s football — sometimes calls go your way, sometimes they don’t.”
Even within the sports media world, Bayless’s take has divided opinions. Some analysts agreed that the referees made questionable decisions, while others accused Bayless of stirring controversy for ratings. Former NFL player and current commentator Shannon Sharpe fired back, saying Bayless was “disrespecting the grind” of Denver’s young squad.
“You can’t just call every close game a fix,” Sharpe said. “The Broncos fought for that win. Period.”
The NFL has not yet issued any statement regarding the officiating in the game, but sources indicate that the league’s Officiating Review Committee will analyze the final quarter as part of its weekly review process.
As for Bayless, his words have once again done what they always do — set the sports world ablaze. Whether you agree or not, his claim that the Broncos’ win was a “referee gift” ensures that this debate won’t fade anytime soon.
One thing’s for sure: the Broncos walked away with the victory, but the controversy might linger far longer than the cheers from the Mile High crowd.
