Controversial punt return leaves Iowa in brutal loss to Minnesota

Controversial punt return leaves Iowa in brutal loss to Minnesota on Saturday night, the Minnesota Golden Gophers defeated Iowa by a score of 12 to 10. However, until the officials reversed a contentious punt return late in the game, it appeared that the Hawkeyes would win.

With 2:00 remaining in the game, Minnesota, deep in their own territory, was about to punt the ball to Iowa. In order to win the game, the Hawkeyes’ offense had a chance to drive down the field in a solid position after their defense forced a three-and-out.

Punt returner DeJean knew as soon as the punt was released that the ball would be short, so, as punt returners do, he pointed out the landing spot of the ball for his teammates. DeJean was also waving his left hand simultaneously, but it didn’t appear to be an apparent fair catch gesture.

When the ball bounced, DeJean chose to grab it and try to make a return rather than simply letting it go out of bounds. To everyone’s surprise, DeJean dashed down the field and ended up in the end zone. With less than two minutes remaining, giving them a 16–12 lead.

After a review, referees determined that DeJean was indicating a fair catch, leading to a change of possession.

With enough time left, Iowa still had the opportunity to gain excellent field position and win the game with at least a field goal. However, the Golden Gophers’ interception at the end of the game sealed the victory.