Oregon Ducks benefited from one of 'worst calls' in college football this year

In a controversial moment during the 2025 college football season, a pivotal officiating decision in the game between the Oregon Ducks and Penn State Nittany Lions drew significant attention. Oregon's Noah Whittington had a fumble overturned after review, with officials determining his knee had touched the ground before the ball was dislodged. This call was ranked as the seventh worst of the season by On3.

The overturned fumble occurred with the Ducks on Penn State's nine-yard line in a tied 3-3 game. Following the reversal, Oregon's Dante Moore connected with Dierre Hill for a touchdown, contributing to their eventual 30-24 double-overtime victory.

This game marked a turning point for Penn State, which subsequently lost three consecutive games, leading to the firing of head coach James Franklin. The controversial call has been cited by some as a key factor in the Nittany Lions' disappointing season.