Ad Disclosure
As if the Alabama-Ole Miss game needed any extra drama, a controversial play has just added to the Rebels’ growing lead.
Defensive end Marquis Haynes nailed Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts, forcing a fumble that John Youngblood returned for a 44-yard touchdown to extend Ole Miss’ lead to 24-3. Officials flagged Breeland Speaks for unnecessary roughness after he blindsided an Alabama player a good 20 yards from the play, but they let the touchdown stand despite the infraction occurring before Youngblood had scored.
meant to say the block in the back on #9 breeland speeks should have negated the rebels TD. pic.twitter.com/J9j8DSWofC
— Mo Carter (@MoCarterFOX54) September 17, 2016
The league offic told the CBS broadcast crew that it is non-reviewable play, and color commentator Gary Danielson called it “a whiff by the officials on the field.”
But there’s another layer to the play that deepens the controversy. Haynes appears to hit Hurts with the crown of his helmet, a penalty that is reviewable and would have also negated the Rebels’ defensive touchdown.
https://vine.co/v/5nBuBQdixpn
Alabama quickly responded with a touchdown to make it 24-10, but this call could have a huge effect on this game — and, as a result, the national title race.
Marcus covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
