During Saturday’s game between Alabama and Texas A&M, Crimson Tide freshman Mack Wilson delivered a huge (and controversial) hit on Aggies wide receiver Speedy Noil.
Noil was back to return a kickoff late in the first quarter. After receiving the ball in the end zone, the junior was met shortly after crossing the ten yard line by Wilson, who looked like he had been shot out of a cannon.
Oh my god what a hit!! Mack Wilson of Alabama just made the tackle of the day! Must watch!! #BamavsTAMU pic.twitter.com/asXTk24dkZ
— Andrew Baker (@abakesports) October 22, 2016
Not surprisingly, many were expecting a penalty to be called for targeting on Wilson. However, no flag was thrown. Here’s a close up of both players prior to impact.
Looked like a clear targeting penalty here, should Mack Wilson still be in this game? #TAMUvsBAMA pic.twitter.com/n8jF6PVBK9
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) October 22, 2016
After seeing the play, ESPN’s Max Bretos offered a suggestion for similar plays in the future.
If Mack Wilson hit on Speedy Noil was not targeting, call it something else. You can't have those hits, NO. Lower your target. #TAMUvsBAMA
— Maximiliano Bretos (@mbretosESPN) October 22, 2016
The topic of what constitutes targeting has been discussed at great lengths and surely will continue to be after this hit by Wilson.
