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Tennessee Volunteers punter Jackson Ross hits an onside kick against the Texas Longhorns on Sept. 26, 2026.
Had the Texas Longhorns not held on for a 20-17 victory over the Tennessee Volunteers on Saturday at Neyland Stadium, they’d have a major bone to pick with the SEC and conference officials.
On Monday morning, the conference admitted to a major missed call that led to the Vols recovering an onside kick with 1:22 left in the ballgame, which gave them a chance to either tie or win the game.
During the play, Tennessee punter Jackson Ross executed a unique dropkick that helped his team regain possession. However, Ross violated multiple rules in the process.
Former NFL referee Terry McAulay cited a rule that states that the team taking the free kick must do so from some point on that team’s restraining line. In this instance, the restraining line would be the 35-yard line. Except Ross took the kick while in motion, at the 34-yard line.
Additionally, McAulay clarified that the kick taker may not move laterally, as Ross did, after the ready for play.
The SEC Admits To Major Blooper On Tennessee Onside Kick
McAulay was absolutely stunned that Ross and the Vols weren’t called for a penalty on the play, which would have resulted in a loss of yardage and a retake of the kick.
Now, the SEC has proved him correct.
News: The SEC announces Tennessee’s onside drop kick should have been penalized for not happening directly on the 35-yard line and because of the kicker’s movement.
Would’ve been a penalty and re-kick. pic.twitter.com/Kne3cggRWG
— Chris Vannini (@ChrisVannini) September 28, 2026
“The onside kick with 1:22 to play in the Texas at Tennessee football game on Saturday was incorrectly officiated and should have resulted in a five-yard penalty on Tennessee and a replay of the down,” a statement from the conference read.
“A drop kick is permissible, but a free kick must be made from the kicking team’s restraining line which is the 35-yard line on a kickoff, unless relocated by penalty. The ball was at least one yard behind the 35-yard line when it was kicked
“In addition, after the ball is ready for play the kicker may not change his lateral position between the hash marks. That spot can change only after a charged timeout or on a subsequent kick. The kicker’s movement after the ready signal violated the rule,” the statement continued.
“The correct enforcement is a five-yard penalty and a replay of the down. The Southeastern Conference regrets the error and will continue working with the Secretary/Editor for NCAA Football Rules and officials to ensure consistent application of free-kick rules.”
Thankfully, the missed call didn’t change the outcome of the game. Otherwise, the SEC would find itself in some serious deep water with Longhorns fans, coaches, and players.