WAC apologizes for officiating error

September, 17, 2008
9/17/08
6:16
PM ET

Posted by ESPN.com's Graham Watson

WAC commissioner Karl Benson announced in a statement Wednesday that Fresno State receiver Devon Wylie did fumble in the third quarter against No. 10 Wisconsin on Saturday.

Benson said the replay official was in error in overturning the called fumble and declaring it an incomplete pass.

"The WAC holds officials accountable for their performance," Benson said. "And when errors are made, especially those that may have an impact on the outcome of a game, it is necessary to hold an official accountable for the mistake."

The drive resulted in a field goal that cut a six-point deficit to 13-10, which was ultimately the final score.

On first and 10 from the Fresno State 19, Wylie caught a pass from caught a pass from quarterback Tom Brandstater and appeared to turn upfield when he was hit by Wisconsin free safety Shane Carter. The ball came loose and linebacker DeAndre Levy recovered the ball.

Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema declined to comment both after the game and during his weekly press conference.

Benson said there should have been indisputable evident to overturn the call.

"After reviewing video of the play with Jim Blackwood, WAC supervisor of football officials, we concluded there was not indisputable evidence," Benson said. "Thus, per NCAA rules the play should not have been overturned."

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