Did Texas' Michael Taaffe commit targeting? Officials rule DB's hit vs Arizona State legal
College football fans are left wondering what targeting call is following another questionable call during the Arizona State-Texas game in the College Football Playoff Peach Bowl quarterfinal.
Texas defensive back Michael Taaffe appeared to hit the helmet of Melquan Stovall on third-and-15 after he caught a pass for 10 yards from quarterback Sam Leavitt. Taaffe was not originally called for targeting, but officials went to review the play to see if his hit was legal.
Texas has had at least 2 penalties go unluckily against them, and could have another one here after that huge Michael Taaffe on Melquan Stovall.
But NO targeting on Taaffe is the call. Texas finally gets the call, wow #SugarBowl pic.twitter.com/pu4Y4fNmU6— The Whole Delivery (@TWDTV1) January 1, 2025
However, the call was upheld for no targeting following the review, forcing the Sun Devils to punt on fourth-and-5 from near midfield. Arizona coach Kenny Dillingham was on the field for an extra few moments arguing the call on the field.
Rules expert Matt Austin joined the broadcast and said the receiver was defenseless, adding he "wouldn't be surprised if the called targeting from the booth."
REQUIRED READING: Texas vs Arizona State live score updates, highlights, how to watch CFP quarterfinal game
Luckily for the Sun Devils, Texas kicker Bert Auburn missed his second kick in the final two minutes. His kick hooked to the left, went off the left post, and bounced back onto the playing field, sending the game to overtime.
This story will be updated.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Did Texas' Michael Taaffe commit targeting vs Arizona State in Peach Bowl?