49ers Legend Joe Montana Speaks Out Defending San Francisco Against Larry Fitzgerald's Accusations That the Game Had Referee Arrangements

Glendale, Arizona. 11/17/2025

After the 22-41 loss to the San Francisco 49ers, the atmosphere in Arizona became hotter than ever when legend Larry Fitzgerald spoke out criticizing the penalty call on Trey McBride in the second half. The situation where McBride was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct just for signaling first down was seen as a “fatal blow” to the Cardinals' spirit. Fitzgerald described that decision as “strange and game-changing,” opening a fiery debate across the NFL.

Fitzgerald even released video footage replaying the play, showing McBride only performing a normal celebration gesture. This made him feel outraged because he believed Arizona was hard done by at a crucial moment. In a session with local media, Fitzgerald said in a voice full of disappointment: “I’ve never seen such a bizarre flag. If a game changes because of a decision like that, we have a real problem.” His suspicion led experts to conclude that the game had been rigged. The incident quickly spread across social media.

Taunting penalty on Trey McBride here

the absolute HORROR !!!pic.twitter.com/5NCme66s5N

— Joe Orrico (@JoeOrricoFF) November 16, 2025

However, Fitzgerald's criticism did not last long. Because just a few hours later, 49ers legend Joe Montana officially responded in an interview in the Bay Area. Montana disagreed with Fitzgerald's view and strongly defended the honor of the team he led to four Super Bowl titles. The debate atmosphere from then on became more tense, drawing the entire NFL's attention.

In his response, Montana spoke decisively: “The 49ers have a glorious tradition. We don't need and have never relied on any referee decision to win games. The Cardinals should focus on improving instead of blaming a bad penalty. One flag doesn't make the whole game.” These words immediately became the media's focal point, widely shared on all platforms.

The debate between the two legends symbolizes two opposing viewpoints in the football world. Fitzgerald defended the Cardinals' spirit after a heavy defeat, while Montana upheld the historical values of the 49ers. But above all, the situation of McBride being wrongly penalized is pushing the NFL into a larger discussion about consistency in game officiating. A seemingly small moment has become the spark for a league-wide debate.