Missouri has formally requested the Southeastern Conference to examine the officiating from Saturday's controversial 34-20 loss to Texas, with athletic director Laird Veatch calling for greater accountability and transparency.
Veatch announced the request in a letter to Tigers fans on Monday, acknowledging the frustration surrounding several decisions that went against Missouri.
“After the game Saturday, we requested a formal review and response from the SEC regarding the officiating,” shared Veatch. “Consistent with SEC expectations, we will not make those conversations or responses public, other than that we have not received anything inconsistent with what the conference has already shared publicly.”
The most disputed incident occurred in the third quarter when Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning appeared to throw an incomplete pass, but officials ruled it a fumble. The replay booth upheld the original decision, giving Texas a crucial first down.
The Longhorns capitalized on that possession, scoring a game-tying touchdown three plays later before adding two more touchdowns in the second half to secure the win.
Other controversial decisions included a pass interference penalty against cornerback Sione Laulea, a missed intentional grounding call on Manning and the officials overturning an early rushing touchdown by Tigers quarterback Austin Simmons. Disagreements also emerged over how downfield blocking was handled on plays behind the line of scrimmage.
Article Continues BelowThe defeat dropped Missouri to 6-3 overall and 3-3 in conference play, knocking the Tigers out of the AP Top 25 and potentially ending their College Football Playoff hopes. Meanwhile, Texas improved its postseason position by avoiding a third loss.
Missouri will next travel to Georgia before hosting Kentucky and Oklahoma in its remaining home games.