In yesterday's game, there was a pass over the middle where the BYU receiver appeared to catch the pass and then fumble. Boston College recovered the ball, but the officials continued BYU's series (I can't recall if the pass got them a first down or not). Boston College's coach challenged the call and it was reviewed. The play stood as called on the field.

My question: It was clear that Boston College recovered the fumble, but since BYU retained possession for the next down the ruling on the field must have been that there was no fumble. The problem with that is that the succeeding spot of the ball was at least 1-2 yards behind where the BYU player caught the ball and hit the ground.

Can any of you NCAA guys explain what happened on that play?

How about an early whistle? Oops!
Catch, fumble... ball on ground - whistle - then recovery.

That's the only explanation that comes to mind.

Probably wrong, but what the heck.