Bills-Dolphins slightly delayed due to fans throwing snowballs
Few teams in the NFL have a better home-field advantage than the Buffalo Bills. Not just because of the rowdy Bills Mafia fans but also weather conditions. Things can get cold in Western New York, with Saturday being the latest example.
Up to eight inches of snow fell before hosting the Miami Dolphins but only the field was cleared. Fans still showed up with some in the stands and around their seats. Of course, people began to create snowballs and throw them around with each other and even onto the field after a touchdown.
However, it became a safety issue as the balls were not just filled with snow. Ice was getting in there and becoming dangerous for people on the receiving end. There was even a slight delay in the game while officials discussed their next course of action.
While Bills fans might just be trying to have some fun, throwing snowballs could wind up hurting their team.
“Please stop throwing snowballs,” the announcement said. “We’ve just been informed that if a snowball hits someone, it’ll be a 15-yard penalty against Buffalo.”
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniels was curious about the rules as well. He was not complaining to the officials about the fan’s behavior but as most would, McDaniels was just trying to get an advantage for his team.
“It’s all fun and games but Mike McDaniels was having a long chat with the officials about it,” NFL Network sideline reporter Peter Schrager said. “Because these are ice balls. They’re coming and getting belted all over the Dolphins’ sideline. And McDaniels is asking ‘what’s the deal? Can it be a 15-yard penalty?’
“He was just asking the refs what the call is. He’s not complaining, just stating the fact. Says the entire Dolphins sideline is getting pelted with snowballs and there is ice in it.”
Heading into the halftime break, nothing has been called by the officials, as fans have dialed back since the 15-yard penalty announcement. Of course, Buffalo is trying to get a crucial win as they try to extend their lead in the AFC East.
Having an advantage at home will always be a thing, especially for the Bills when playing Miami later on the schedule. But we now know where the line is set by the NFL, wanting to keep their players safe.