College football referees call back pick-6 after defender high-steps into end zone

Referees across college football have looked to crack down on player celebrations across the sport. While their calls are largely justified, at times the flags cross over into “questionable” territory.

This, certainly, could potentially qualify as one of those times.

Purdue led Northwestern 14-3 with just over 2 minutes gone by in the 3rd quarter. With the Wildcats holding possession and facing a 3rd-and-6 at their own 43, quarterback Cole Freeman, in his 1st career start, was intercepted by Jalen Graham. Graham, with no defenders around him, had an easy path to the end zone and started to high-step his way there at the 30-yard line.

However, a flag was thrown. Graham was ruled for unsportsmanlike conduct:

https://twitter.com/FTBeard7/status/1594044337721311232

https://twitter.com/FTBeard7/status/1594046728453267456

While it’s understandable that the referees want to cut back on showboating, there doesn’t seem to be anything here you wouldn’t see in an NFL game. Players have emotions and should be allowed to show them to some extent. On the other hand, Graham may have just been better served simply running it in.

If Purdue ends up letting Northwestern back in it, though, this play will loom large.

Sydney Hunte

Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.