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A ref in a game between Boston College and Army unintentionally tackled an Eagles player. That hit prevented a likely big play for BC, and it resulted in an instant viral moment.
The tackle came in the second quarter of action in what would end up being a tightly contested matchup. Boston College had the ball leading 6-3, looking to tack on more before the halftime break.
Quarterback Thomas Castellanos took off up the middle with his eyes on the open field. Unfortunately, his hole closed up thanks to an unexpected obstruction.
As Castellanos turned up-field, he was met by a referee who proceeded to lay the wood and send the ball carrier to the turf.
REF WITH THE HIT STICK 💪 pic.twitter.com/hRNupIRbTH
— CBS Sports College Football 🏈 (@CBSSportsCFB) October 7, 2023
I mean, a de-cleater if I’ve ever seen one. Not expecting to receive the “boom” from the man in stripes, a surprised Castellanos left his feet on contact.
Fans erupted with reaction to seeing the clip, with some suggesting that the referee had an alternative agenda.
“OG is a veteran, I bet,” one follower wrote.
Others posted different responses, noting the hilarity of the play.
“He didn’t even budge.”
“Thought he was going to taunt the guy for a second.”
“He dapped up the Army player.”
“Oh no, that poor kid Monday during film.”
Castellanos was able to reach the first-down marker on the play, but the ref’s tackle prevented what could’ve been an even bigger gain. The unfortunate play wouldn’t have an impact on the outcome as Boston College won 27-24, scoring the go-ahead touchdown in the final 30 seconds of regulation.