Mark Pope Criticizes Officials After Brutal Tackle on Quarterback Goes Uncalled in Auburn Game
In a game already filled with intensity and high stakes, Kentucky Wildcats head coach Mark Pope didn’t hold back his frustration after what he described as a “brutal and dangerous” tackle on his quarterback went unnoticed by game officials. The incident, which took place during a crucial matchup against the Auburn Tigers, has now sparked heated debates over officiating standards and player safety in college sports.
The controversial play happened in the third quarter when Kentucky’s quarterback took a hard hit from Auburn’s defensive line after releasing the ball. The tackle appeared late and forceful, with the quarterback being slammed to the ground in a way that had fans and analysts immediately questioning why no penalty flag was thrown. Pope was visibly upset on the sideline and continued to express his displeasure after the game.
“That was an absolutely brutal tackle,” Pope said in the post-game press conference. “It was late, it was unnecessary, and most importantly, it was dangerous. We’re talking about the safety of these young men, and the officials have a responsibility to protect them. How that hit was ignored — I just don’t understand it.”
Despite Pope’s outcry, the officials remained silent on the matter during the game, and no penalty was assessed. Replays showed the quarterback lying on the field for several moments before being helped up by his teammates, clearly shaken but determined to continue.
Kentucky went on to lose the game in a close 28-24 finish, but the missed call remained one of the biggest talking points after the final whistle. “We’re not making excuses — Auburn played a great game — but moments like that change momentum,” Pope said. “When your quarterback takes a hit like that and nothing is called, it’s tough to rally back.”
The incident has also drawn reactions from players and analysts alike. Former NFL quarterback and current analyst Tim Hasselbeck called the hit “blatantly late” during his coverage. “That’s the kind of play the league says they want to eliminate for safety reasons,” Hasselbeck said. “I’m surprised it wasn’t flagged immediately.”
Meanwhile, Kentucky’s quarterback remained focused on the game rather than the controversy, showing his resilience. “It’s part of football,” he said after the game. “You take some hits, you get back up, and you keep playing. But yeah, I definitely felt that one.”
As the Wildcats prepare for their next game, Pope has already indicated that he plans to follow up with the Southeastern Conference (SEC) regarding the missed call. “We just want some accountability,” Pope said. “We owe it to these players to make sure the game is called fairly and that their safety remains the top priority.”
The SEC has not yet released an official statement on the incident, but sources suggest the league may review the play and the officiating crew’s decision. In the meantime, fans and analysts will undoubtedly continue dissecting this moment — one that could have significant implications for both Kentucky’s season and ongoing conversations about safety and officiating in college sports.
