Ohio State’s football team was facing a tough situation at home, on the brink of a possible upset when a controversial decision significantly impacted the game.

During the fourth quarter of their match against Nebraska on Saturday, Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese was removed from the game due to a targeting penalty, which officials confirmed after a review. The call was made after a collision with Nebraska’s Jahmal Banks, raising questions about the validity of the targeting ruling.

The debate surrounding the targeting call stemmed from the fact that Banks had already lost possession of the ball before Reese’s hit. Nonetheless, the officials decided that Reese’s arm coming in towards Banks’ shoulder was sufficient to maintain the targeting penalty after reviewing the incident.

Due to the targeting violation, which also included a 15-yard penalty, Reese is now required to sit out the first half of next week’s game against No. 3 Penn State.

Following the call, Ohio State coach Ryan Day received a warning for unsportsmanlike conduct after he threw his headset in frustration. The game was further delayed as water bottles were thrown onto the field by fans.

Nebraska regained possession at their own 46-yard line after the penalty, providing quarterback Dylan Raiola with a prime opportunity to lead a potential game-winning drive. However, Ohio State’s defense managed to thwart that effort when Jordan Hancock intercepted the ball, securing the victory for the Buckeyes.

What is targeting in college football?

The NCAA Football rule book specifies that targeting must generally meet one of the following conditions:

• Leading with the top part of the helmet
• Deliberately making contact with the head or neck area of a player who is unable to protect themselves

If a targeting call is made, the player faces a 15-yard penalty and is ejected from the game. Additionally, if the infraction occurs in the second half, the player is also required to miss the first half of their next game.