Chargers Tackle Slaps Kelce During Game
In a recent matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Kansas City Chiefs held in São Paulo, Brazil, an unexpected moment grabbed attention. Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart was penalized for slapping Chiefs star tight end Travis Kelce in the helmet during the game on September 5.
The incident occurred after a push-and-shove between the two players following a run by Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt, with just over eight minutes remaining in the third quarter. Although Tart received a 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty for the slap, the referees decided it wasn’t severe enough to warrant ejection.
Former NFL referee Terry McAulay, during a live commentary, noted that since the contact was an open hand rather than a fist, it did not qualify as a disqualifying action. This resulted in the Chargers remaining a full team on the field.
Following the penalty, the Chiefs capitalized and moved the ball to the Chargers’ 11-yard line. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes then rushed into the end zone for an 11-yard touchdown, closing the gap to 13-12. However, kicker Harrison Butker missed the extra point, keeping Kansas City from tying the game.
Kelce had a challenging night, facing another collision with teammate Xavier Worthy early in the game. Despite this, he managed to score a touchdown in the fourth quarter on a 37-yard pass from Mahomes, celebrating with a unique dance in the end zone.
Ultimately, the Chargers secured the victory with a final score of 27-21, asserting their dominance over their AFC West rival.
