College Football

‘The Ball Should Have Been Spotted’ — Big Ten Acknowledges Error on Oregon’s Tying Two-Point Try in 17-15 Loss to Unbeaten UCLA

October 12, 2026

The Big Ten has admitted an officiating error cost Oregon a chance to tie UCLA in their 17-15 loss at the weekend. Oregon’s final two-point try attempt was incorrectly spotted at the 1.5-yard line after a facemask penalty on the first attempt, when the ball should have been placed at the half-yard line as per NCAA rules.

The Ducks’ Jordon Davison was stopped inches short of the end zone on the retry, handing UCLA a crucial victory. Oregon’s struggles extended beyond the spot dispute, as the team turned the ball over seven times and managed just 73 rushing yards on 27 attempts, including a 1-of-12 performance on third downs.

UCLA’s defense, led by defensive lineman Sahir West, held firm despite playing the second half without injured starter Nico Iamaleava, who was replaced by backup Ty Dieffenbach. Oregon coach Dan Lanning later acknowledged the two-point attempt decision and ball security issues as key factors in the defeat, while UCLA’s Bob Chesney praised his defense’s ability to force turnovers.

The misplaced spot on Oregon’s two-point try became the focal point of the game, with the Big Ten confirming the error in a statement. UCLA’s Brian Rowe Jr.

and Wayne Knight, who rushed for 103 yards and a touchdown, were instrumental in the Bruins’ 5-0 start, while Oregon’s Evan Stewart and Brock Thomas provided the only late rally with a 44-yard touchdown pass. The Ducks had earlier failed a two-point conversion attempt in the first quarter, further highlighting their offensive inconsistencies.

UCLA’s victory improved their record to 5-0, while Oregon dropped to 3-2 after a season marked by turnovers and defensive struggles.