An odd sequence in the third quarter of Saturday’s game with Illinois and Nebraska resulted in a loss of down for the Illini.

On Monday, Collegiate Officiating Consortium Coordinator Bill Carollo cleared up the confusion about why the mistake was made.

Here’s the release the B1G sent out:

ROSEMONT, Ill. – Collegiate Officiating Consortium Coordinator of Officials Bill Carollo acknowledged a breakdown of officiating mechanics in regards to down and distance during the first series of the third quarter in the Nebraska at Illinois football game on Saturday, Oct. 3.                                                    

While officials on the field are responsible for the correct down, distance and oversight of the chain crew, it is also the responsibility of the replay officials to monitor the game administration and correct the number of a down and distance if inaccurate.  If properly officiated, the Illinois football team would have had an additional down.

All officials in the Collegiate Officiating Consortium are graded and evaluated on every call of every game of the season.  Errors of this nature have a significant impact on game assignments, bowl assignments and overall year end status.

The Collegiate Officiating Consortium consists of the Big Ten, Mid-American and Missouri Valley Conferences. The consortium considers this matter concluded and will have no further comment.

Illinois coach Bill Cubit was asked about the decision during his Monday availability. He had an understanding response.