NFL rules analyst Walt Anderson defends Josh Allen OT interception ruling, reveals why game was not stopped to review play

by: Nick Geddes 8 hours ago NickGeddesNews

Former NFL official and current rules analyst Walt Anderson explained in detail Sunday why the league ruled that Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw an interception in overtime on the controversial play which led to the Denver Broncos winning the AFC Divisional Round game on Saturday. Anderson, speaking on NFL Network ‘s “NFL GameDay,” said the ball never hit the ground when Bills wide receiver Brandin Cooks lost control.

The ball ended up in the control of Broncos cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian . The play was ruled an interception and league replay officials in New York confirmed it.

“The replay officials in New York and in the stadium were looking at the play, they looked at all the angles,” Anderson said, via Mike Garafolo of NFL Network. “… They’re confirming the call on the field was the ball was immediately loose when it hit the ground… and control was gained by the defender.”

NFL rules analyst Walt Anderson explains the controversial INT in last night’s #Broncos win. pic.twitter.com/OAlgk9iVzE

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 18, 2026

Referee Carl Cheffers did not offer an explanation on the field. Bills head coach Sean McDermott called a timeout, urging officials to take additional time to review the play. Anderson revealed why officials did not stop the game to review the play.

 “If you can confirm the ruling on the field was correct, they want to move the game along,” Anderson said.

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