The game ended when North Carolina running back Michael Carter’s forward progress was stopped at the end of a 13-yard run for a first down. The referees on the field said there was no time left on the clock, but ACC supervisor of officials Dennis Hennigan said the replay official “should have stopped the game for further review and put one second on the clock.”
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The game’s finish was already viewed as a bit of a controversy, with Tar Heels coach Mack Brown telling reporters he was under the impression there was time on the clock before the game abruptly ended as fans spilled onto the field.
Had the replay officials added one second, the clock would’ve started started upon the referee’s signal after spotting the ball and moving the chains. Whether the Tar Heels would’ve gotten a play off with that time is tough to say, but it’s a safe bet they would’ve liked the chance to find out.
Many observers, though, would say the Tar Heels’ 21-0 halftime deficit is as much to blame as anything for the loss.
“All disciplinary measures are being handled internally,” Hennigan’s statement reads, “and the ACC considers this matter closed.”
