Big Ten Overturns Targeting Suspension for Arvell Reese

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Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese was ejected for targeting in the fourth quarter on Oct. 26 against Nebraska (5-3, 2-3 Big Ten Conference). The No. 4 Buckeyes (6-1, 3-1) filed an appeal to the B1G to overturn the decision as the call would also keep Reese out of the first half against No. 3 Penn State. It was announced on Oct. 28 that Ohio State had won their appeal, making Reese available for the entire game in the top-5 matchup against the Nittany Lions (7-0, 4-0) on Nov. 2.

The Targeting Call on Arvell Reese

The play in which Reese was ejected drew controversy from college football fans all over the country. The officiating of the targeting penalty has been a major discussion amongst fans since the implementation of the accused player receiving an ejection on top of the 15-yard penalty. Reese hit Nebraska wide receiver Jahmal Banks late in the fourth quarter while breaking up the pass intended for him.

Reese hit Banks high with both of his forearms as he flew across the field to break up the pass. The officials reviewed the call and confirmed it as targeting, ejecting Reese for the remainder of the game. The confirmation subsequently would disqualify Reese for the first half against Penn State as well. Ohio State head coach Ryan Day showed clear frustration with the call as he seemed infuriated of the sideline. Fans expressed their disappointment with the referee's decision as well, with some spectators even throwing water bottles onto the field. The situation was similar to Texas fans throwing bottles onto the field after a pivotal pass interference call against No. 2 Georgia (6-1, 4-1 Southeastern Conference) on Oct. 19. Their actions even resulted in the referees overturning the call on the field in favor of the No. 6 Longhorns (7-1, 3-1).

The penalty came at a crucial point in the game, with Nebraska having the ball down only four points and looking to take the lead. Losing a key player in Reese certainly was detrimental as the Buckeyes were fighting to get a game-winning stop. The call did not end up playing a major role in this game's outcome as defensive back Jordan Hancock secured the victory with an interception just a few plays later.

Reese's Impact Against Penn State

Ohio State has used Reese heavily in his second year with the team. He is most primarily used when the Buckeyes move to a base 4-3 defense. Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles has shown a strong preference to use three linebackers whenever opposing offenses use multiple tight ends. The Nittany Lions have used two tight ends often in the past and under new offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki this season. Penn State's star tight end Tyler Warren has been the clear No. 1 target on offense for quarterback Drew Allar. Warren leads the team with 47 receptions and 559 yards. He also has 4 receiving touchdowns on the year, along with a single passing TD.

The Buckeyes' defense has been susceptible to big plays from tight ends this year. Reese's inexperience could lead to Kotelnicki scheming ways for Warren to find himself one-on-one with the talented young linebacker. Reese's main strengths this season have been his pursuit and tackling in the run game. He has not had to hold up in pass coverage often as the Buckeyes clearly want to keep his responsibilities simple, allowing him to play freely. Reese is at his absolute best when allowed to use his natural instincts and athleticism to make big plays. It will be interesting to see how often and how Reese is specifically used against the Nittany Lions.

The two will face off at noon EST on Nov. 2 in Beaver Stadium.