As much as I hate the play, I still get a sense of satisfaction when “The Call” is mentioned on national TV. The latest occurance was today on Cold Pizza, when sports journalist Skip Bayless mentioned it in regards to the Buckeyes getting away with one during March Madness.
Ohio State center Greg Oden threw an Xavier player to the floor in what should’ve been called a flagrant foul in the waning moments of their Saturday match up. Xavier looked to have the game locked up if the call was made. Two free throws and possession most likely would’ve sealed it.
Instead, Xavier went one and one from the line, the Buckeyes had a shot at a three to force overtime and they hit it, eventually rolling in OT.
When discussed on Cold Pizza this morning, Bayless said the following in reference to the no call:
“That was the most outrageous injustice I have seen since Ohio State STOLE the national football championship from Miami with that pass interference flag that came ten seconds after the play was over.”
Classic. Four years later and “The Call” is still being discussed, much to the chagrin of Buckeye nation who seek validation and love to cite the random columnist (usually from somewhere in Ohio or Big XII country) who defends “The Call”.
Even bleeding heart host Jay Crawford couldn’t defend the comment outside of saying “two seconds” to Bayless’ ten. I think Crawford was still stinging from the waxing Florida put on them months ago in Glendale. Since that beatdown, Buckeye faithful scattered like roaches when the lights are turned on. There’s no fight left in that once-arrogant crew.
Sure, it still burns that Miami was robbed of back-to-back titles, but it’s always a treat to hear someone take a dig at Ohio State’s tainted title.
Plus, had The U brought home the hardware, we wouldn’t have Randy Shannon at the helm now and after 7-6 in 2006, I’m more concerned with the future than I am the past.