Bears cornerback criticised for running from Patriots scorer

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 22:57 · Archive

Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad ran away from New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson during a 48-yard touchdown reception in the first half of Thursday's game.

Chicago Bears cornerback Malik Muhammad drew widespread criticism for his actions during a 48-yard touchdown reception by New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson in the first half of Thursday's game. The Bears won 30-24.

Stevenson caught a screen pass around the 46-yard line and ran free for about 20 yards before approaching defenders. As three Bears converged on him, Muhammad appeared to turn 90 degrees to engage with Patriots receiver Kyle Williams instead of tackling Stevenson. He then ran away from the play, allowing Stevenson to find an opening and reach the end zone practically untouched. Muhammad completed a 360-degree turn during the play without affecting Stevenson's path.

The play sparked online commentary and criticism. Former NFL player and podcaster Emmanuel Acho tweeted that the rookie "gotta find a way to get this deleted from all hard drives and wiped off the internet before film tomorrow." Sports betting commentator Craig Carton said on Friday that Muhammad's decision to run away rather than attempt to tackle Stevenson raised questions about the game. Carton called it "the type of play that needs to be investigated" and noted that the unusual moment generated particular attention because it occurred on a Thursday night game.

How it is being reported

• Craig Carton explains why the NFL has some questions to ask after bizarre moment in Bears-Patriots gameCraig Carton questions why Chicago Bears DB Malik Muhammad ran away from Rhamondre Stevenson on a late touchdown, demanding an NFL investigation.Fox News · 23 Oct, 22:33
• Bears’ Malik Muhammad called out for shockingly running away during touchdown debacle: ‘Get this deleted’Malik Muhammad may want to use a sick day when the Bears have their video review of Thursday's win.New York Post · 23 Oct, 13:50

In this story: Malik Muhammad · Rhamondre Stevenson · Chicago Bears · New England Patriots · Craig Carton

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