Report: ACC Fire Controversial Statement on Penalty in Cincinnati Bearcats’ Loss to Texas Tech
Cincinnati, OH – The American Athletic Conference (AAC) and Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) have come under scrutiny after releasing a joint statement regarding a disputed penalty call in the Cincinnati Bearcats’ 28-24 loss to Texas Tech last Saturday.
With 2:15 remaining in the fourth quarter, Cincinnati quarterback Ben Bryant was flagged for an intentional grounding penalty, negating a potential game-winning drive. The contentious call, which many deemed questionable, shifted momentum in favor of the Red Raiders, ultimately sealing the Bearcats’ fate.
In a statement released Tuesday, the ACC acknowledged the penalty but asserted that the call was “correct” and “in line with NCAA rules.” However, the joint statement has only fueled further controversy.
“The ACC’s statement is tone-deaf and lacks transparency,” said Cincinnati head coach Luke Fickell. “Our players, coaches, and fans deserve better. We respect the officials’ difficult job, but clarity and accountability are essential in situations like this.”
Cincinnati athletic director John Cunningham echoed Fickell’s sentiments, expressing disappointment and frustration with the ACC’s handling of the situation.
“The conference’s response fails to address the underlying concerns and inconsistencies that have plagued our program this season,” Cunningham stated. “We will continue to advocate for our student-athletes and push for improved officiating standards.”
Fans and alumni have taken to social media to express their discontent, using hashtags #ACCaccountability and #CincyDeservesBetter. A petition circulating online has garnered over 15,000 signatures, calling for increased transparency and reform within the ACC’s officiating process.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate about the role of officiating in college football, with many arguing that the ACC’s stance undermines the integrity of the game.
“This isn’t just about one call or one game,” said former Cincinnati player and current ESPN analyst, Chad Johnson. “It’s about the cumulative effect of inconsistent officiating and the lack of accountability that follows.”
As the Bearcats prepare for their next matchup against UCF, the lingering questions surrounding the penalty call serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for fairness and transparency in college football.
_Reaction from around the college football community:_
– ESPN’s College GameDay analyst, Kirk Herbstreit: “The ACC’s statement is unacceptable. They need to take responsibility and provide clear explanations.”
– AAC Commissioner, Mike Aresco: “We will review the play and provide guidance to ensure consistency moving forward.”
– NCAA officiating coordinator, Rogers Redding: “We will examine the play and provide recommendations for improvement.”
The ACC and AAC have yet to respond to the growing backlash, but the controversy is unlikely to subside anytime soon.
