Cam Skattebo believes controversial targeting review vs. Texas was 'clear as day'

A controversial call on a potential targeting in the second half of the Peach Bowl showdown between Arizona State and Texas continues to draw scrutiny. That now includes Sun Devils star Cam Skattebo.

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.

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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.

As noted, Skattebo took exception to the call.

“I mean I was looking right at it. I watched him catch the ball and I watched the crown of the helmet go directly into the chin of my teammate,” Cam Skattebo said on the Dan Patrick Show. “Like coach (Kenny) Dillingham said last night, you don’t really know what a targeting is anymore. We’re trying to protect players, and some are protected, some aren’t. No matter who you’re playing against, I feel like anybody should be protected.

“I felt that was a little biased. But whatever they call is what we’re going to rock with, and hopefully Melquan’s OK. I haven’t talked to him yet since after the game last night, but hopefully he’s OK and he’s feeling good and in high spirits.”

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 Sun Devils punted it away.

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. Cam Skattebo and Arizona State were eliminated from contention, left to wonder what might have been had the call gone their way.