The Big Ten announced Monday that they would implement a modified officiating mechanic that would position two line judges on the kicking teams’ restraining line, giving them a clear view of onside kicks. 

The change came after an offsides penalty was called against the Gophers on an onside kick in the fourth quarter against Michigan after the Gophers recovered the ball. Head coach P.J. Fleck submitted the play to the Big Ten coordinator of officials Bill Carollo who informed the team the play was too tight to flag.

Moments before the onside kick, Gophers receiver Daniel Jackson caught a touchdown pass to put Minnesota within one possession of tying the game against Michigan.

The Gophers elected to go for an onside kick and regain possession of the ball.  

Controversy stemmed from the offside call, but Minnesota was not allowed to challenge it. The Gophers kicked again, but Michigan recovered the ball on the second kick. 

After the game, Fleck said he was not focused on the last play and that many things contributed to the Gophers’ loss.

“I’m not going to sit here and get fined and do all those other things,” Fleck said. “I have more respect for my boss and the University of Minnesota and the Big Ten. That’s one play.”