Veteran NFL referee breaks down clock issue that infuriated Lincoln Riley

Former NFL referee and current NBC rules analyst Terry McAulay believes that USC coach Lincoln Riley’s anger over a clock issue to end the first half against Arizona was justified.

After USC completed a 34-yard pass to get down to the Wildcat 10-yard line with eight seconds on the clock, it appeared they had a chance to score before halftime. However, the clock started to run before the official had even set the ball down. It hit zero before the Trojans even had a chance to snap the ball, and the refs ruled the half over despite never signaling for the clock to start.

Riley was understandably upset, getting in the face of officials and letting his displeasure be known. McCauley took to Twitter shortly after the incident to break down what really should have happened from an expert’s perspective.

“This was a long completion for a 1st down at the 9 yd line,” he wrote. “Clock stops for the 1st down. In general, officials do *not* wait for chains to be set nor the ball to be on the ground before starting the clock. However, under 2 minutes, Referee’s should be deliberate such that the offense has a reasonable opportunity to snap before starting the clock. 5 sec was plenty of time.

“There was a delay getting the (ball) spotted, and the Umpire should not have forced the offensive line to move. He spotted the ball behind where it was dead on the previous play. This was a mechanical (error) of the crew and the clock started too soon. The offense clearly should have been able to snap well before time ran out.”

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Lots of outrage over this one, so let’s break it down.
This was a long completion for a 1st down at the 9 yd line.
1. Clock stops for the 1st down.
2. In general, officials do *not* wait for chains to be set nor the ball to be on the ground before starting the clock.
1/3 https://t.co/DQAY4wagat

— Terry McAulay (@SNFRules) October 30, 2022

USC went into the locker room leading 17-13, and ultimately came out on top with a 45-37 victory. Quarterback Caleb Williams led the way with 411 yards passing and five touchdowns in the win, but could have potentially had another if not for the clock error.

Either way, Lincoln Riley will hope to put the clock issue out of his mind and move on to next game, when USC faces California at 7:30 p.m. PT next Saturday.

On3’s Andrew Graham contributed to this report.