Big 12 issues statement on double review in OU-Kansas State

After much uproar about the call, the Big 12 issued a statement on the controversial double review in the Oklahoma-Kansas State game Saturday. According to Sooners reporter Bob Przybylo, Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley was in his rights to challenge the play.

Below is the full explanation from Big 12 officiating coordinator Greg Burks:

“Once the announcement occurs the review of the play is complete, unless late-arriving information shows it was an obvious error,” Burks said. “We reviewed the initial aspect of where the ball was toughed by the kicker in attempting to recover the kick. The second aspect of the kicker making two separate contacts with the ball was discovered after the announcement was made. By case book ruling we corrected the obvious error.”

The “late-arriving information” in this case is that Kansas State kicker Ty Zenter hit the ball a second time with his heel. On the first review, the officials were simply checking to see whether or not the ball traveled the required 10 yards for an onside kick.

Although Riley was lauded for his sharp eye and noticing something that few people did, FOX rules analyst Mike Pereira said on the broadcast the challenge shouldn’t have been allowed. He asserted that since the play had already been reviewed once, it should not have been eligible for another look.

It’s hard to say ultimately how much impact this had on the game. Sooners quarterback Spencer Rattler threw an interception on the ensuing possession, giving the ball back to Kansas State anyway.

The Wildcats made a late rally after a 93-yard kickoff return from Malik Knowles. However, their final onside attempt of the day was also unsuccessful, and they lost 37-31.

The victory improves the Sooners to 5-0 and 2-0 in the Big 12. Four of their five wins this season have now come by a touchdown or less.

After showing off his prowess on the onside kick review, Oklahoma coach Lincoln Riley will look to keep his team on track to a conference title. Oklahoma meets Texas next Saturday in the annual Red River Rivalry game.

For the sake of everyone involved, hopefully the Big 12 doesn’t have to issue another statement on a review in that one.