Behind her, a huge banner with the word “BANG” unfolded, intensifying the already controversial moment. The spectacle was enhanced by Beyoncé’s delivery of this dramatic moment while standing atop specially constructed scaffolding. Because the gesture complied with NFL rules that forbid such behavior on the field, it caused controversy. Because players who break this rule are given a 15-yard penalty, Beyoncé’s use of the gesture in a football game is especially controversial. The 32-time Grammy winner wowed her hometown Houston audience with a nearly 13-minute performance on Wednesday, riding into her halftime appearance on a white horse.

Before Post Malone joined her for Levi’s Jeans, she shocked fans by bringing out Shaboozey to perform Sweet Honey Buckiin.