WATCH: Controversy in Michigan vs Georgia Orange Bowl matchup
As Michigan attempted to drive down the field in the final two minutes of the first half, Georgia’s defense intercepted a pass in controversial fashion. Georgia defensive back Derion Kendrick got tied up with Michigan’s Roman Wilson on a pass to the sideline. Kendrick won the battle and Wilson lost sight of the play, thinking it was an incomplete pass.
Michigan vs Georgia controversy
Kendrick made an incredible play on the errant pass, recording the interception and giving Georgia one last chance to score points before the half. Georgia led Michigan 27-3 at the break. Georgia’s offense found success on multiple big plays in the passing game, while their highly ranked defense held Michigan to just a field goal.
Coach Jim Harbaugh argued with officials in the game immediately after the interception, asking where the pass interference call was on what he felt was a clear penalty. Unfortunately, the pass interference call was not reviewable and the play stood as a turnover. The controversy isn’t a deciding point of the game between Michigan and Georgia yet as the Wolverines trail by 24.
Unfortunately for Georgia, the play cost them one of their players for the rest of the game as well.
After Kendrick intercepted Cade McNamara’s pass, defensive back Christopher Smith committed a targeting penalty. He was attempting to block for Kendrick but got a too bit physical, leading with the crown of his helmet into Roman Wilson’s head.
While it’s not a good thing that Smith was ejected from the game, the Bulldogs were lucky that the penalty occurred in the first half. If the targeting call had happened in the second half, Georgia would be without Smith for the first half of the National Championship Game.
Before they get that far though, they need to finish their business with Michigan in the Orange Bowl. The Bulldogs led 27-3 at halftime and their defense appeared ready to shut down the Wolverines at every turn.