Eric Fisher took blame for holding penalty, even if Andy Reid and Chiefs disagree with call

The Kansas City Chiefs appeared to tie the game with a successful two-point conversion in the final minutes against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but a holding penalty on Chiefs left tackle Eric Fisher nullified the score. After the 10-yard penalty, the Chiefs were unable to score again and lost 18-16.

“Obviously, I’m frustrated with the call,” Fisher said, via Arrowhead Pride. “With the game on the line and for me to let the team down it’s going to be a hard one to let go.”

Fisher, the No. 1 pick in the 2013 NFL draft is a 6’7 offensive tackle who was tasked with blocking the Steelers’ 6’ pass rusher James Harrison, who dipped around the edge trying to get to Alex Smith.

While Fisher feels like he cost the team, many have come to his defense to disagree with the penalty. Tight end Travis Kelce was the most vocal of those against the call, telling reporters it was “horseshit” and the official shouldn’t be able to allowed to officiate games anymore.

Chiefs head coach Andy Reid also disagreed with the call, but was much more diplomatic about it.

“I’m not sure I completely agree with what took place, but it did and the call was made and we live with that,” Reid said. “I don’t want to be fined any money, but I would tell you I was probably leaning the other way. I thought [Fisher] did what he needed to do on that particular block to get that done, but the problem is that when people slip it can look worse than it is.”

Chiefs wide receiver Chris Conley echoed the sentiment that officials should’ve let the play go.

“Normally in the playoffs, they let you play and let the plays be decided on other factors,” Conley said, via Arrowhead Pride. “I think there was a lot of holding and this and that going on during the game and they choose to call it in a situation like that. It is what it is.”

Reid made clear that the penalty wasn’t the reason for the loss, though. He emphasized that the team “had plenty of opportunities to take care of business.”

Kansas City committed two turnovers, was outgained by the Steelers 389 to 227, and committed six penalties compared to four for Pittsburgh. The Chiefs also became the first team in postseason history to allow zero touchdowns and score at least two of their own, but still end up with a loss.