I don’t blame the refs for throwing the flag but I really disagree with the ejection. Look closely at these three shots. Note in particular Gerry’s angle to the ground and position of his feet. He’s not launching himself wildly. The intent of this rule is to prevent that sort of behavior. Similar to Kenny Bell’s penalty against Wisconsin, you see a Nebraska defender leading and making a clean hit with his shoulder.
Right before the hit:
Point of contact – what’s making the hit? His helmet or his shoulder?
After the hit – Gerry’s feet still placed exactly where they were before the hit. He’s stationary. Not launching.
Video provided by B1G Youtube Channel:
And then we have the poor guy who came in for him – #24 – look at these shots – both of these were the long Iowa touchdown runs. I am concerned that we’re so thin. I think this is a reminder of Pelini’s incompetence – we have no depth at all. He was able to hide behind a mainly healthy line of starters during his time here. This year we got exposed with all the injuries.
First touchdown – on this one he ran way up to the 32 yard line and chased after #33 – slowly. In his defense, the other 5 guys right there should have made the play, too.
Second touchdown – on this one he allowed the ref to “pick” him. #3 should have made the play, too.
