SEC officials rule Arch Manning's pass a fumble in Texas-Missouri game
A disputed forward-fumble call involving Texas quarterback Arch Manning gave the Longhorns a first down and contributed to their 34-20 victory over Missouri.
Texas retained a chance to come back late in the third quarter of its SEC matchup with Missouri after officials ruled a play involving quarterback Arch Manning a forward fumble. On 3rd-and-10, Manning was hit while attempting a pass that appeared incomplete; the crew allowed the play to continue and awarded a fumble recovery to Texas receiver Emmett Mosley V, resulting in a 14-yard first down. The decision was upheld after review, and Texas later scored a tying touchdown and went on to win 34-20.
Broadcasters expressed surprise at the call. > "Are they saying this is not a forward pass and instead, a fumble?!" said ABC/ESPN play-by-play announcer Joe Tessitore. Color commentator Jesse Palmer also questioned the ruling.
Former NFL quarterback and current analyst Terry McAulay said the play was "clearly and obviously an incomplete pass" and that the ball was lost after the arm moved forward. Former Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel called the call "the most ridiculous" he had seen. Missouri wide receiver T.J. Moe said the decision affected the team's playoff chances.
Missouri head coach Eli Drinkwitz did not comment publicly on the officiating after the game. The controversy has added to ongoing discussions about consistency in college football officiating.