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Controversy in Eugene? Ohio State scores on opening drive after questionable catch ruling

Paul Harvey

By Paul Harvey

Published:

Ohio State is off and running in Eugene, rolling 75 yards in 10 plays for a touchdown on the opening drive of the game against Oregon. However, some controversy was certainly involved.

The biggest play of the drive came shortly after Will Howard converted on a 4th-and-1 play and hooked up with Will Kacmarek for 32-yard pickup. Howard put the pass to Kacmarek in a perfect spot, and the officials ruled it a catch as Kacmarek and Oregon’s Jeffrey Bassa both went down to the ground in a heap.

It was ruled as joint possession, something that goes in favor of the offensive player, but there is just one problem. Replays showed Kacmarek never appeared to have control of the ball while going to the ground with Bassa ripping the ball away as they fell to the ground.

Take a look:

Traditionally, close plays like that are blown dead for review, but Ohio State beat the punch. The Buckeyes rushed to the line and called a handoff to Quinshon Judkins, eliminating the chance for officials to take a second look at the play.

Two plays later, Will Howard would punch in the game’s first touchdown with a 1-yard plunge, but that crucial play looked like one that would be coming back if reviewed. We’ll see if that eventually looms large down the road.

Paul Harvey

Paul is a lifelong fan and student of all things college football. He has been covering college football since 2017 and the B1G since 2018.