Big Ten announces public reprimand of Nico Ragaini for officiating comments

During Saturday’s Cy-Hawk game between Iowa and Iowa State, there was a noncall Hawkeyes receiver Nico Ragaini did not agree with. Ragaini was attempting to be on the receiving end of a pass from Cade McNamara but instead, it went the other way for an interception. He thought there should have been a pass interference call on the play but the officials did not throw the flag.

Ragaini made his feelings on the decision known during an interview, using some strong language throughout. As a result, the Big Ten has publicly reprimanded Ragaini for his comments made toward the officials.

“The Big Ten Conference announced today Iowa football student-athlete Nico Ragaini has been issued a public reprimand for violating the Big Ten Sportsmanship Policy following his comments regarding officiating in reference to the September 9, 2023, football game against Iowa State,” the conference said in a statement.

“Big Ten Conference Agreement 10.01 states in part that ‘The Big Ten Conference expects all contests involving a member institution to be conducted without compromise to any fundamental element of sportsmanship. Such fundamental elements include integrity of the competition, civility toward all, and respect, particularly toward opponents and officials.’

“The Big Ten Conference considers this matter concluded.”

Along with the Big Ten statement, Ragaini issued an apology for publicly criticizing the officials. He also apologized for the language used when making the comments.

“I want to apologize for my public criticism of Saturday’s officiating,” Ragaini said. “I am a competitive person and player. My comments reflected my passion for the game, and I apologize for my choice of language.”

The play Ragaini is upset about occurred in the second quarter. Iowa State wound up with the ball after seemingly pulling Ragaini to the ground. While the home crowd in Ames may have agreed with the call, those wearing Iowa colors — mainly Ragaini — were not on the same page.

“Was it pass interference? I mean, I feel like — what’s, the NCAA or Big Ten going to fine me if I say that’s a horsesh-t f***ing call or what?” Ragaini said Tuesday. “I shouldn’t have dropped an F bomb in there, but goddamn. … It’s whatever.”

Iowa wound up getting the ball back not too long later. As McNamara put it “ball don’t lie.” Going home with a win and retaining the Cy-Hawk Trophy was probably all worth it too. Even if Ragaini was publicly reprimanded by the Big Ten.