College Football Fans Worried After Referee Collapses, Leaves in Ambulance

In a scary scene, a referee collapsed and left the game via ambulance during the first half of Hawaii's matchup against Boise State on Saturday night at Clarence T.C. Ching Athletics Complex.

Play was stopped for more than 15 minutes as medical personnel attended to the back judge, who collapsed to his hands and knees during the second quarter.

"CBS says the backline judge that's down IS alert, but he'll be taken to a local hospital," Idaho Statesman beat reporter Shaun Goodwin wrote on X. "Scary situation for all involved."

A stretcher came out but the ref eventually was able to walk to the ambulance under his own power. Many fans were concerned and sent their thoughts for a quick recovery.

"That ref was not happy to get in that ambulance. Sure he’s not too happy this is happening and everyone watching," a fan said . "Fast recovery to that man though!"

"Prayers up for the Boise-Hawaii ref," another said .

Due to the absence of a replacement official, the game proceeded with one fewer referee.

Boise State led the contest 13-7 at the half, and Heisman frontrunner Ashton Jeanty led the way. The dynamic Broncos running back came in averaging better than 10 yards per carry. Jeanty finished the first half with 110 yards on 15 carries, including a 54-yard touchdown run.

Related: Mind-Blowing Ashton Jeanty Stat Secures His Spot as the Heisman Trophy Front-Runner