Alabama got their play signal from the sideline and was moving into position when the ball was snapped without warning.
The snap was so unexpected the entire stadium, TV crew, officials, everyone caught unaware.
Hurts (QB) chased the ball down and fell on it for a 15-20 yard loss. Bama 12 points down, under 2 minutes left, scrambling for a play on 4th and 9.
People in the stadium saw no flag. Replay stopped play after the chains had been moved. I understand how the crew messed up, yet it's inexcusable.
1. Know where you are. I think the Umpire and both wings got caught up in counting defense. They knew there were 12 on the field, but momentarily forgot everything else. The moment the center puts his hands on the ball, you best be aware of everything. Offensive set, positioning.
The only person responsible for the 12th man is the wing with the player coming at him. Widen your view, 4 offensive players coming in his direction too.
2. The 12th man can be kept in your vision until he crosses the line. You are off the field, nothing happens until the ball is snapped. If the 12th player leaves the corner of your vision he's off the field. He was still three yards in bounds. The focus should be on the ball, with all the other movement taking place.
No flags were dropped. Two wings, Umpire, "C" and White Hat were distracted. Pat Dye Field is one of the loudest floors in the nation, especially when running into the student section of the stadium. You can't hear the person next to you. No hands went up to signal 11 on defense, that broke the concentration.
But it gets worse. There is a flaw in the replay and someone will figure out how to take advantage of it.
Offense not set, defense trying to get 12th man off the field, snap the ball. If no one throws a flag, replay can only decide on the 12th man and ignore the motion because no one flagged it at the snap. That's a heck of a deal if you can pull it off 3-6 times a season.