On the same day the NCAA issued a rules clarification designed to close the loophole Oregon exploited during its 32-31 victory over Ohio State last Saturday, Lane Kiffin found the narrative “interesting” when comparing it to faking injuries.
“It’s interesting, though, I find that all this national talk about someone faking an injury, and people shouldn’t do that,” Kiffin said Wednesday during the SEC teleconference. “I’m not saying I don’t agree with. But I just found it interesting that everybody thinks this is awesome that you went against the rules and put more people on the field but then everybody’s (up in arms) when faking an injury. So just found it interesting.”
The Ducks — apparently intentionally — put 12 men on the field in the final moments of their game vs. the Buckeyes, resulting in a 5-yard penalty, but also eating valuable time off the clock. Left with only six seconds and no timeouts remaining, Ohio State was unable to get in range for a game-winning field goal attempt before time expired.
On the other hand, there has been criticism of faking injuries across the country in the last few weeks. Much of that has been pointed out Kiffin’s program, which issued a statement.
“Feigned injuries has become a notable topic in college football, and we realize our program has been part of that discussion. We have been in communication with the National Coordinator for Football Officiating and provided relevant medical information for his review to answer questions about recent injuries,” the statement read.
“We have also updated the SEC office, and our head coach will communicate with our coaches and players to ensure we conduct ourselves properly and are compliant in this matter.”
Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
