Bengals’ Battle draws pushback from Malik Willis after 2-pick game
Dolphins QB Malik Willis disputes Jordan Battle’s claim about a throwing tell after the Bengals safety intercepted him twice.
On Sunday, Jordan Battle intercepted Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis twice during a game, causing controversy. Willis disputes Battle's claims that he was exhibiting a tell. Before the game, Battle had publicly identified Willis' habit of tapping the football before releasing it as a potential clue for the Bengals' defense. However, Willis denied this, stating that he did not tap the ball on either interception.
He explained that the first one was caused by a hit on his arm, while the second was due to receivers Malik Washington and Kevin Coleman Jr. moving in unison during a scramble, which brought a defender into his throwing lane. Willis also dismissed the significance of Battle's observation, describing patting the football as a common quarterback habit.
Despite the controversy, Willis gave credit to Cincinnati's defense, particularly their defensive front, for the successful interceptions. These two defensive stops, coming in quick succession during the second quarter, helped Cincinnati build a 21-7 halftime lead and end a two-game losing streak.
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