Late in the second quarter of No. 23 Illinois’ game against No. 21 USC, the Fighting Illini were near the goal line and looking to take a 14-point lead before halftime. However, they fumbled at the one-yard line, and after a controversial review, the call was upheld.
Fans quickly took to the internet to voice their complaints about the decision.
Fans Slam Referees After Controversial Illinois Fumble Call
The referees’ decision to uphold the fumble call likely made the difference between a 14-point lead and a four-point lead at halftime.
The Fighting Illini were up 14-7, and if the call had been overturned, they could have extended their lead to 21-7. Instead, after the fumble was upheld, the Trojans drove down the field and scored a field goal before halftime, making it a 14-10 game.
When watching the fumble in slow motion, it appears the call should have been overturned, but the officials ultimately didn’t change it. It’s safe to say college football fans were far from happy with the decision.
After review, the call on the field is upheld, and it’s USC ball!
Do you agree with the call? pic.twitter.com/thNt2IilAt
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) September 27, 2025
Fans were quick to troll USC over the program’s wealth, with one suggesting the Trojans were paying the referees by altering the team’s name to include a money sign.
U$C
— Michael Cipriano (@Cip3of4) September 27, 2025
Another fan shared that sentiment, writing, “Illini got robbed. $C is getting all the breaks as usual.”
One person who wasn’t a fan of either team still thought the call should not have been overturned, siding with Illinois.
I have no skin in the game and that call pissed me off
— Ligma (@RestlessDikFace) September 27, 2025
While others pointed to college football being rigged, with one saying, “No. So rigged.” While another fan added, “This is why people think referees are getting paid off to influence games!”
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The criticism of the call is understandable, as video review does make it look like the Illinois player was down before the ball came loose. However, fans need to remember that when a fumble is called on the field, officials need indisputable evidence to overturn it.
The crew officiating the game clearly didn’t feel they had that evidence, so the call stood. It’s easy to see why fans are upset, especially since USC capitalized with points off the fumble, and the call could affect the outcome of the game.
Still, the refs’ decision to uphold the fumble after it was initially called on the field was ultimately what they felt was correct. Calls like this happen every week in college football, and while they can be frustrating for the fan base on the losing end, they are part of the game and something fans have to accept.
Currently in the third quarter, the No. 23 Illini lead the No. 21 Trojans 17-10 on FOX.
