Overview
- Tennessee executed a rare drop‑kick onside attempt late in the game on Saturday that bounced off Texas receiver Ryan Wingo and was recovered by Arion Carter.
- On the field officials initially threw a flag on the play but then picked it up after conferring, and Texas held on to win 20-17.
- The SEC announced on Monday that the kick was illegal because it was made at least one yard behind the 35‑yard restraining line and the kicker changed lateral position after the ready‑for‑play signal.
- The correct call would have been a five‑yard penalty on Tennessee and a replay of the down, but the conference said it will not retroactively change the game's result.
- The league said it regrets the error and will work with the Secretary/Editor for NCAA Football Rules to clarify and improve consistent enforcement of rare free‑kick situations, a step that could affect future special‑teams rulings and training.