If Nebraska football fans were hoping for ramifications for anything that happened on Saturday in Columbus, they won’t like what the Big Ten did on Tuesday. One day after stating that the officiating crew for the game between the Huskers and Ohio State made a big mistake, the conference is officially turning a blind eye on everything else.
The Huskers were the victim of the worst spot in the history of college football, according to more than one observer. But there were plenty of other bad calls. In fact, even some bad calls went against the Buckeyes. And when one lousy call went against OSU, its fans went nuts, throwing bottles and even (for some reason) cheese onto the field.
Similar events unfolded just a week before in Austin, and Texas fans received an official reprimand from the Big 12. However, when it came time for the Big Ten to do the same with Ohio State fans, the conference backed down.
They’re throwing beer, Fireball and cheese at Ohio Stadium. pic.twitter.com/sxXHYU0WKZ
— Amie Just (@Amie_Just) October 26, 2024
Ohio State fans get off for actions during Nebraska football game
"All Big Ten institutions are expected to adhere to the policies and procedures within the Big Ten Football Game Management Manual," the league said in a statement. "The security and protection of student-athletes, officials, coaches and staff is of utmost importance. The conference is confident that Ohio State staff properly handled the situation on Saturday and will have no additional comment."
The situation the statement was aimed at occurred late in a 21-17 game where Nebraska was trying to drive for a winning touchdown. Wide receiver Jahmal Banks caught a Dylan Raiola pass and was hammered by defensive back Arvell Reese and was flagged for targeting. After replay officials determined it was targeting and Reese was ejected, the Buckeyes fans went nuts.
As objects rained down from the stands, OSU's public address announcer pleaded with fans to stop, and officials took a precautionary measure to protect NU’s players. After the game, Raiola addressed the situation and wasn’t happy.
"The bottles being thrown, it kind of feels like it disrespects football and just the nature of it," the QB said. "But it happened, and we had to get away from it."
The Tuesday release absolving Ohio State of any wrongdoing is insult to injury for Nebraska football, which also saw the Big Ten reverse the targeting call on Reese on Monday so he won’t miss the first half of the Buckeyes’ next game.