Josh Allen led the Buffalo Bills to a dominant victory over the Denver Broncos in Sunday’s NFL Wild Card game, but that wasn’t what got some fans talking on social media.
The Bills, led by their star quarterback, eased past Denver to book their place in the Divisional playoffs as Allen finished the game 20 of 26 with 272 yards passing and two touchdowns.
While his play on the field was at a high level once again, some fans on social media weren’t pleased with the Bills star and his actions during the national anthem.
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Allen chose not to place his hand over his heart as ‘The Voice’ contestant Bella Denapoli sang ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’, which didn’t sit well with some fans.
“Half the dang football players wouldn’t even put their hand over their heart to show respect for the national anthem and flag. @NFL That’s just pitiful,” wrote one fan on X.
“All NFL coaches, players and staff should put their hand over their heart during the National Anthem! Period! No excuses! In fact, I believe EVERYONE should do it!,” wrote another.
Another wrote: “The NFL should have a policy that fines every coach and player that doesn’t put their hand over their heart.”
One fan added: “The money collected from these fines should then be donated to organizations that sincerely help our Veterans.”
Strahan was criticized for same gesture
Allen isn’t the first football star to draw the ire of fans for failing to place his hand on his heart during the anthem.
Fox broadcaster Michael Strahan attracted plenty of criticism after failing to do so during Fox’s Veteran’s Day celebrations.
“Michael Strahan just disrespected the country that made him. I’m a career Army Infantry Veteran. I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Michael Strahan. I know this. Because I understand he’d NEVER EVER consider deploying to a Hostile Fire Area for something greater than himself,” wrote one critic.
Strahan later apologized for the incident, but time will tell if Allen feels compelled to do so as well.
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