COLUMBUS, Ohio — The suspension of an Ohio State linebacker who was called for targeting late in the fourth quarter Saturday during the Nebraska game was vacated by the NCAA on Monday.
A spokesperson with Ohio State Athletics said the university filed an appeal to the Big Ten Conference regarding the penalty against Arvell Reese and his suspension for the first half of the team's next game against Penn State.
The Big Ten took Ohio State's appeal to the NCAA football secretary rules editor and, after review, it was determined the hit was not targeting.
Reese was ejected for his hit on Nebraska wide receiver Jahmal Banks in the final minutes of Saturday's game at Ohio Stadium.
Following the initial flag, the play was reviewed for several minutes and the call ultimately stood.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day was visibly upset over the decision and his reaction prompted another flag from the referees for a sideline warning.
As loud boos filled Ohio Stadium, some fans took to throwing water bottles, beer cans and other items on the field. The reaction from the fans prompted an almost immediate response from the university.
"Throwing items or entering the field of play is strictly prohibited," the scoreboard read in part. "We ask you to BE the Best Fans in the Land. Behave like Champions."
Once play resumed, the Cornhuskers were called for a false start and lost yards on consecutive plays before Dylan Raiola was off target with a pass intended for Isaiah Neyor and Hancock picked it off.
Ohio State went on to win the game 21-17.