NCAA implements rule change in response to Oregon loophole

University logos cover a wall in the lobby of NCAA headquarters Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021, in Indianapolis. Photo Credit: Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Oregon exploited a loophole in the NCAA’s rules by intentionally committing a penalty late in their win against Ohio State on Saturday, and that loophole has already been closed.

With 10 seconds remaining in their 32-31 win over Ohio State at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Ore., the Ducks intentionally put a 12th defender on the field. Ohio State was near midfield at the time and looking to get into field-goal range. By using 12 defenders, Oregon prevented a big play while the Buckeyes took time off the clock.

The play took 4 seconds, so there were just 6 seconds remaining after the 5-yard penalty was assessed. Ohio State still was not in field-goal range and was left with time for just one final play. You can see the full sequence here .

On Wednesday, the NCAA issued a new rule interpretation to prevent teams from using the same loophole as Oregon. Going forward, the offense will have the option of resetting the game clock to where it was before the snap when a 12-men penalty is committed after the two-minute warning.

Oregon coach Dan Lanning stopped just short of openly admitting that he exposed a loophole, but his comments about the play made it obvious . The Ducks also got an assist from Ohio State quarterback Will Howard committing a huge blunder on the final play .

It is rare for the NCAA to change a rule in the middle of the season, but in this case officials felt the need to act quickly.

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