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

Miami alum Tyrique Stevenson was late getting into the play on a hail mary that won the game for the Washington Commanders on Sunday. On Sunday night Stevenson issued an apology to Chicago and his teammates stating a lack of awareness and focus. Stevenson now realizes the game isn't until the clock reaches all zeroes.

It was a terrible moment for Stevenson that was called out by eight-time Superbowl-winning coach Bill Belichick (six as a head coach with the Patriots and two as the defensive coordinator with the New York Giants under Bill Parcells). Belichick called the play ridiculous and that Stevenson wasn't aware 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.

Hopefully, Stevenson has truly learned from the play as he stated in his apology. When mentoring Miami players in the future, Stevenson can use his gaffe on Sunday as a learning experience. It can be one Mario Cristobal can show his players about the importance of controlling your emotions and attention to detail.