Big Sky Conference admits mistakes in EWU/UM game

OGDEN, Utah - Following a review of the Eastern Washington University-University of Montana game on Saturday, the Big Sky Conference has issued a statement in regards to the contest’s quality of officiating.

Montana beat EWU, 41-34.

“The officiating in Saturday’s game was not up to the standards we expect and require,’’ said Big Sky Conference Commissioner Doug Fullerton. “Our officials are evaluated on every play of every game by observers in the stadium and by independent film evaluators - many with NFL experience - following the games. There are consequences for officials after they are examined.’’

Several plays were reviewed by the conference, its director of football officials Doug Toole, and independent observers. The league found two calls against Eastern Washington particularly troubling.

In the fourth quarter, an Eastern player was called for a late hit out of bounds. The penalized player, however, was illegally blocked in the back by a Montana player, propelling him in to a Montana player out of bounds.

Late in the third quarter an EWU wide receiver was called for unsportsmanlike conduct as he slowed down on his way to the end zone. His actions, however, did not warrant the penalty.

“We continue to examine at least four more plays,’’ said Fullerton. “We don’t normally comment on officiating, nor do we plan to regularly do so in the future. However, there are cases where it is warranted, and this is one.’’