Tennessee’s drop-kick onside kick against Texas was recovered, but it appeared to start about two yards behind the required line. Officials picked up a flag after conferring; Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said he would seek a ruling. Tennessee lost 20-17.
With 1:22 left, Faizon Brandon threw a 30-yard touchdown pass to Mike Matthews, and punter Jackson Ross attempted the drop kick. The ball bounced off Texas receiver Ryan Wingo’s hands and was recovered by Tennessee’s Arion Carter. Tennessee’s final Hail Mary fell incomplete.
The NCAA rulebook requires a free kick to be taken from the kicking team’s restraining line and between the hash marks; it allows a punt or drop kick from behind the line after a safety. Ross kicked just ahead of Tennessee’s 33-yard line, roughly two yards behind the kickoff spot. The article says it is unclear whether the distance affected the kick and does not report a later ruling.
