Tyrique Stevenson issues apology post Hail Mary Gaffe and Bill Belichick take

Miami alum Tyrique Stevenson was late to react on a Hail Mary play that led to the Washington Commanders' victory Sunday. Later that evening, Stevenson apologized to Chicago and his teammates, acknowledging his lack of awareness and focus. He now understands that the game continues until the clock shows all zeroes.

It was a tough moment for Stevenson when eight-time Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Belichick – who won six titles as head coach of the Patriots and two as the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants under Bill Parcells – criticized him. Belichick deemed the play ridiculous and exclaimed that Stevenson was unaware of the defensive call.

Stevenson was caught jabbing with Washington fans shortly after the snap. Stevenson finally realized the play was live and got to the middle of the field where the hail mary was thrown. Bears head coach Matt Eberflus confirmed after the loss on Sunday that Stevenson's job was to cover Washington receiver Noah Brown who caught the TD.

The lack of awareness by Stevenson went viral on Monday. Too many media outlets to count including NFL.Com reported on the gaffe by Stevenson. NFL Next Gen Stats per writer Kevin Patra recorded Stevenson as allowing four receptions for 90 yards on nine targets as the nearest defender on Sunday.

"Obviously It's a ridiculous play. Doesn't get the call, doesn't know how they're going to play it...obviously a terrible play by Stevenson. He doesn't know what's going on. He runs over there, jumps up and volleyballs it up in the air for a game losing play. It's terrible. "

- Future Hall of Fame coach Bill Belichick

The taunting by Stevenson and having his back turned after the snap shows, as Belichick stated that he doesn't know what is going on. McAfee who is often polarizing correctly stated to Belichick that type of play just cannot happen in the NFL. McAfee stated to Belichick the time to talk to the crowd is after the game.

Stevenson has likely learned from this experience, as he noted in his apology. In the future, he can use this mistake as a valuable lesson when mentoring Miami players. This incident should also serve as a teaching moment for Mario Cristobal, highlighting the importance of managing emotions and paying attention to detail.