Intentional Grounding

[Robert Goodman]

Originally Posted by jimpiano

Ohio State at its own37, 2nd and 3, 2:19 left in the second quarter.
Braxton Miller is about to be sacked for a 12 yard loss when he throws a pass which appeared to travel backward. I can't tell you when a whistle blew, but the referee threw his flag. Then he announced a penalty for intentional grounding as a spot foul and loss of down. The play was in the middle of the field.
I am not questioning the referee's judgement and Miami did not argue the decision.

But if, indeed, the ball was thrown backward what would
be the proper call?

Inadvertent whistle. Either that or no call at all, if the whistle was blown after the ordinary termination of the play.