Patriots HC Accuses Referees of Bias in 21-14 Loss to Steelers

Foxborough, MA — September 22, 2025 — New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel ignited a firestorm after Sunday’s 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, accusing referees of bias that tilted the game in Pittsburgh’s favor. The defeat, dropping the Patriots to 1-2, was marred by controversial calls that Vrabel claims cost his team a chance at victory, prompting him to vow to present evidence to the NFL.

“We’ve got the footage, and we’re taking it to the league,” Vrabel declared postgame. “If the game’s integrity is compromised, those responsible will face consequences.” The accusations, echoed by furious Patriots fans on X, center on three pivotal officiating decisions that shifted momentum toward the Steelers.

In the first quarter, running back Rhamondre Stevenson appeared to break the goal line before fumbling, but officials ruled a touchback for Pittsburgh, denying a potential touchdown. No review was granted, leaving New England scoreless and handing the Steelers possession. In the second quarter, a questionable defensive pass interference call on cornerback Carlton Davis for minimal contact with tight end Jonnu Smith gave Pittsburgh a first down, setting up a 12-yard touchdown pass from Aaron Rodgers to DK Metcalf, pushing the lead to 14-0. The final blow came in the third quarter when a Patriots defensive lineman was flagged for holding on a light-contact rush, extending a Steelers drive that ended with a game-sealing 6-yard touchdown to Calvin Austin.

The Steelers (2-1) capitalized on five Patriots turnovers—four fumbles and one interception, including two at the goal line—to secure their first Foxborough win since 2008. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye threw for 268 yards and two touchdowns but lost a fumble and threw an interception, while Stevenson and Antonio Gibson combined for three fumbles. Vrabel acknowledged the turnovers but insisted officiating errors were decisive: “You can’t overcome five turnovers and bad calls.”

Patriots fans flooded X, labeling the officiating “unacceptable.” The NFL has yet to respond, but league policy often fines coaches for questioning referee integrity. As New England prepares for Week 4 against the San Francisco 49ers, Vrabel’s explosive claims put pressure on the league to address the controversy, while the Patriots seek to salvage their season amid a faltering defense and mounting frustrations.