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Fans are upset with the NFL once again for a taunting flag thrown against Josh Allen on Sunday Night Football. The penalty came during a touchdown run where he pointed at a Cincinnati defender before crossing the goal line.
The flag cost the Bills 15 yards on the ensuing kickoff. That next Bengals drive would end in seven points the other way.
Many believe the penalty was unwarranted.
On the play, Allen scrambled out of the pocked on a pass attempt. Looking to evade Cincinnati defenders, the quarterback used a pump fake to get a would-be tackler in the air.
The move worked to perfection leading to an early celebration. Allen pointed at the psyched-out Bengal as he strolled into the endzone.
According to the NFL rulebook, Allen’s ‘point’ might fit the definition of taunting.
Under Section 3, Article 1: Prohibited Acts – “There shall be no unsportsmanlike conduct. This applies to any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship. Such acts specifically include, (c) Using baiting or taunting acts or words that may engender ill will between teams.”
Josh Allen takes it in the end zone.
Opening drive TDs for both offenses!
📺: #BUFvsCIN on NBC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/T6GLEfxpQv pic.twitter.com/Ji3OIvjm6x— NFL (@NFL) November 6, 2023
Most, however, didn’t love the call.
“No Fun League.”
“Lame taunting call.”
“They’re not kids. Get rid of the taunting rule.”
“Don’t post this TD if you’re going to penalize him for that. Shameful league.”
Josh Allen gets called for taunting on the way to scoring his TD. Points and laughs at the defender on the way into the endzone 🫵😂 Savage. pic.twitter.com/z16dQwI7fu
— Bradley Gelber (@BradleyGelber) November 6, 2023
The ‘No Fun League’ has made calls to upset fans in the past. Earlier this year, Tyreek Hill was fined for recording himself celebrating a touchdown on someone’s cell phone.
We’ve seen other either flagged or fined for similarly frowned upon celebrations.
Josh Allen’s taunting call wasn’t the first time we’ll see a penalty like this, and it won’t be the last.