Towards the end of the Illinois/Nebraska game, the referees overlooked a serious penalty.

The Fighting Illini pulled off a clear 31-24 overtime win against the Cornhuskers late Friday night in Lincoln, but the home team was left completely lost when the referees failed to raise a flag for what appeared to be a clear foul.

Nebraska receiver Jahmal Banks caught the ball and went out of bounds on 3rd & 42 when Illinois linebacker Seth Coleman hit him in the helmet. That was clearly a late hit. Malicious? No. A penalty?

Without a doubt, and a 15-yard penalty would have given Nebraska more downs. Instead, the Cornhuskers suffered a sack on fourth down and the game was over.

You can watch the piece below and let me know what you think at [email protected].

Referees miss penalty for Illinois in overtime win against Nebraska.

Below is a longer video of the broadcast. Skip to 13:15. It’s an even longer look at the action, and the commentators sound baffled that no flag was thrown.

The same goes for all fans at Memorial Stadium.

It’s not the worst late hit you’ll ever see. Not even close, but Banks was out of bounds and the referee signaled to stop the clock when the Illinois linebacker came in and hit him.

You don’t have to love the situation, but a penalty is a penalty. According to the rules, it should have been a 15-yard penalty.

Instead, Illinois ended the game with a big sack on the next play.

The referees apparently noticed an important decision during the Illinois vs. Nebraska game. (Photo by Nathanial George/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

I’m sure Nebraska fans will be talking about this for a long time. Fans can always find something to complain about and not throwing a flag will be at the top of the list. Let me know at [email protected] what you think.