WATCH: SEC officials controversially say Auburn muffs punt, gives ball back to Alabama

Alabama has been rolling offensively, scoring at will early in the first half against Auburn. A stop was desperately needed before halftime, as the Tigers were able to force a punt with just under three minutes remaining. However, the referees called a fumble on the play, with the returner, Keionte Scott, missing the fair catch and going off his hands.

Of course, the play went to Birmingham for a review, with the CBS broadcast providing a couple of angles for the fans at home. While the ball never seemed to touch the hands of the Auburn receiver, the officials were not able to overturn the call.

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The play stood, giving Alabama the ball back around midfield. A debilitating call for Auburn, who was needing some momentum heading into the locker room. Instead, Traeshon Holden was able to capitalize over the middle with a 27-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Bryce Young.

Alabama now leads by three touchdowns with under a minute remaining in the half. You can watch the full play here.

After review, this was ruled a muffed punt and Alabama's ball. pic.twitter.com/i0N0OqgHra

— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) November 26, 2022

Another angle of the play eventually emerged on Twitter, making Auburn’s case even more. It seems as if the ball never comes close to hitting the returner’s hands. It’s not an angle the CBS broadcast was able to provide in the moment either, especially with a short review from the referees.

But alas, the officials did not see enough in their eyes to change the call.

@SECOfficiating pic.twitter.com/DtzPTyWkzq

— Sawyer Nell (@SawyerNell) November 26, 2022

Giving Alabama a short field is never something that works out, for anybody in the country. Not having an officiating decision going your way does not help either. It’s an obstacle interim head coach Carnell “Cadillac” Williams will have to overcome in the second half to get back into the game.