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It was ABSOLUTELY an IW!
If you watch the play closely, the Illinois' receiver has his back directly to the BJ as the ball is coming down. I have a DVR, so I watched this at least 10 times: the BJ grabs his whistle and is in the middle of putting it into his mouth as the ball is reaching the receiver. As soon as the ball reaches the receiver, the BJ lets rip with a blast on his whistle as the receiver muffs the ball and it rolls free.
Now, believe me, I know the feeling all too well (as we all do) of tooting too early, and the expression on the BJ's face said it all (you could see his face going red.) It was without question an IW. I would really like to hear how observers/supervisors deal with it. We can all learn from each others mistakes. I feel bad for the guy.
BTW- that is why I use the moniker "See Leather." Those two words are the greatest advice I ever had (from a great old 40 year veteran official: it is that simple- see leather before you toot- ALWAYS!!
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