PSU defensive TD vs. Ohio State called back due to penalty

Penn State Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin discusses a call that overturned a turnover. Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Penn State defensive TD vs. Ohio State called back due to penalty

By Eric Smithling | Last updated 10/21/23

A costly defensive penalty wiped out a game-changing play for Penn State in its showdown against Big Ten rival Ohio State.

After a review, the touchdown is taken back after holding was called on Penn State pic.twitter.com/eAciJgNbeh
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 21, 2023

Nittany Lions linebacker Curtis Jacobs made an excellent play, first knocking the ball out of Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord's hand and then scooping the ball and taking it all the way for what appeared to be a 59-yard touchdown.

However, cornerback Kalen King held wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., negating the defensive score and giving Ohio State a fresh set of downs. The Buckeyes scored five plays later on running back Miyan Williams' two-yard touchdown run.

THERE. IT. IS. @OhioStateFB takes the lead! #Sponsoredby @wendys pic.twitter.com/1qeF9lgBie
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 21, 2023

Both offenses struggled in the first half, making the would-be defensive score even more of a missed opportunity for Penn State and a dodged bullet for Ohio State.

Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar was 6-of-17 for 91 yards in the first half. McCord was 11-of-21 for 125 yards.

Offense has been hard to come by, and that score would have changed the game's complexion.

If Ohio State wins, that 14-point swing will be the game's biggest play.

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