Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark calls for review on controversial targeting ruling between Arizona State, Texas

Following a controversial non-call on a potential targeting in the Peach Bowl College Football Playoff quarterfinal between Arizona State and Texas, Big 12 commissioner Brett Yormark is calling for change.

Specifically, he’s calling for new national standards to be implemented so that the sport is more equitable. Yormark released a statement on the move on Thursday.

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“As a member of the College Football Playoff management committee, I have had multiple discussions seeking clarity surrounding the targeting call on Arizona State’s final drive of the 4th quarter with Richard Clark,” Yormark said in his statement, according to Yahoo! Sports’ Ross Dellenger. “Moving forward, we need to address CFP officiating to ensure national standards are developed. These standards will be crucial to the CFP’s future, and I look forward to discussing them with my fellow committee members when we meet next.”

The play in question occurred during the fourth quarter, with Arizona State pushing for a win. A pass from quarterback Sam Leavitt was briefly tipped, and as it fluttered toward receiver Melquan Stovall, Texas defensive back Michael Taaffe closed in. What ensued sparked immediate controversy.

Taaffe made contact with Stovall while standing mostly straight up, but the two helmets did collide. Many around the country thought it would result in a targeting call, sending Taaffe from the game and giving Arizona State a first down out past midfield — needing only a field goal to take the lead.

Stovall was shaken up on the play, and though he made the catch, Arizona State was still five yards short of the sticks as fourth down hit. The officials let play go on without a call, and the Sun Devils punted it away as Yormark and others watched, surely bewildered.

And while Texas wouldn’t win it in regulation, the Longhorns eventually survived in double overtime to advance to the semifinals of the College Football Playoff. Yormark praised Arizona State for its performance, though his focus remained on the non-call and officiating standards.

“I’m incredibly proud of how Arizona State represented the Big 12 in the CFP Quarterfinals,” Yormark said. “While the outcome didn’t go our way, the Sun Devils proved they are one of the most talented teams in college football this season.”