Saw most of the first half and parts of the second half.
As to the opening KO, the kick was touched by R player in field of play. Ball then continued into EZ. R player picked it up and tried to run it out but was tackled in the EZ. R has to al least get on the ball. Kick was still live when he picked it up deep in the EZ. He can still attempt to run it out but he does not have to get it out of the EZ. R was not responsible for the ball being in the EZ, it remained a kick and the impetus that put it in the EZ was the kick. Even though it looks funky, it is still just a touchback.
As far as the play regarding the LTG and forward progress, this play IS reviewable. Even though the H ruled that forward progress was stopped and the player pushed backwards, any spot whether ruled down or forward progress spot (not ruled down) is reviewable if it involves the LTG. Instant Replay Casebook Play 38 (pg. 17) states that play is reviewable regarding whether runner made the LTG when he was ruled down. IMO the replay official should have gotten involved even though the R made the announcement that it was not reviewable. The challenge by Arkansas State should have been allowed and IMO the ball would have gone over to Arkansas St. It was 1 yd short of LTG from the view shown on TV. Not sure what views that replay got though.
Lastly, in regards to the RFK foul, did not see this one but this call by all R's is still judgement. The block into the kicker by rule potentially takes the responsibility off of roughing foul, but if in the opinion of the R that the roughing was severe enough, he can still rule roughing. IMO, if kick blocker left his feet (diving) and impact of offensive blocker was minimum and kick blocker hit plant leg of kicker severly, then I would still rule RFK. Have to see the play though.
