NFL Referee Acknowledges Error by Officials in Ohio State vs. Michigan Game

A former NFL referee has acknowledged a significant officiating error in the Ohio State vs. Michigan matchup on Saturday. Ohio State emerged victorious over Michigan with a 27-9 score at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, ending Michigan's four-game winning streak in the historic rivalry.

The Buckeyes completed the regular season undefeated at 12-0 and are set to face Indiana in the Big Ten Championship Game next weekend.

During the game, referees failed to enforce a call that many considered warranted an ejection. Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham collided with a referee in the first half, striking his helmet against the official's face while disputing a no-call. Despite the severity, Barham was not ejected and only received a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, allowing him to remain in the contest.

Terry McAulay, a former NFL referee and NBC rules analyst, criticized the decision. According to McAulay, the play should have resulted in an automatic ejection. On X (formerly Twitter), he stated: "Automatic ejection. In no universe should he be allowed to play another down."

Despite the officiating controversy, Ohio State maintained control and secured the win. The decision, however, has sparked discussions about the consistency of officiating in high-profile college football games.

This report was first published by The Spun on November 30, 2025, in their College Football section.

Author: Sophia Brooks