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Official from Penn State-Ohio State explains controversial touchdown call

Dustin Schutte

By Dustin Schutte

Published:

A controversial call that could’ve been a game-altering decision from Saturday’s showdown between No. 2 Penn State and No. 6 Ohio State has been explained in further detail.

During Saturday’s game, Trace McSorley fired a pass into the end zone for receiver DeAndre Thompkins, who was battle Ohio State defender Denzel Ward. The pass was a jump ball, and both players appeared to come down with the ball. Initially the play was ruled an interception, but after a booth review, it was ruled a Penn State touchdown.

Here’s a look at the play:

It was a difficult ruling either way, but it’s hard to understand why the play was reversed after review.

After the game, referee John O’Neill explained the ruling of the call and the decision to overturn.

“What happened, the offensive receiver had full possession of the ball, brought the ball down and completed the process of the catch. He then rolled over and at that point, the Ohio State defender came on him. By rule, joint possession belongs to the offense.”

O’Neill also explained that, since Thompkins had possession first, he was the one he completed the process of the catch.

The ruling gave Penn State a 35-20 lead in the third quarter and seemed to be a momentum-changing play.

Fortunately for Ohio State, the Buckeyes were able to rally late and post the come-from-behind victory, beating Penn State 39-38.

The ruling didn’t end up having an impact on the outcome of the game, but it sure helped aid an entertaining and wild finish.

Dustin Schutte

Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB