IOWA CITY – Most everyone in black and gold who watched Iowa handle Iowa State this past Saturday raised an eyebrow on a second quarter interception call that went against the Hawkeyes, and star Iowa receiver Nico Ragaini got a stern talking to by the BIG 10 Conference for his profanity-laced criticism of officials for their call.
The Big Ten Conference announced today Iowa football student-athlete Nico Ragaini (pictured, above, via Iowa Athletics) has been issued a public reprimand for violating the Big Ten Sportsmanship Policy following his comments regarding officiating in reference to the September 9, 2023, football game against Iowa State.
Reportedly, when asked by reporters after the game about the bum call, Ragaini said, “What’s the NCAA or Big Ten going to fine me if I say that’s a (expletive) call?” I probably shouldn’t have dropped an f-bomb in there, but (expletive).”
Big Ten Conference Agreement 10.01 states in part that “The Big Ten Conference expects all contests involving a member institution to be conducted without compromise to any fundamental element of sportsmanship. Such fundamental elements include integrity of the competition, civility toward all, and respect, particularly toward opponents and officials.”
The Big Ten Conference considers this matter concluded, they said in a statement today.
Iowa defeated Iowa State, 20-13.
Ragaini apologized today. “I want to apologize for my public criticism of Saturday’s officiating. I am a competitive person and player. My comments reflected my passion for the game, and I apologize for my choice of language.”
.@AndressFootball grad Jeremiah Cooper (@jeremiah1cooper) continues to show out at Iowa State. Cooper grabs his third interception of the season it the Cyclones' game against rival Iowa. pic.twitter.com/8DCOJt4KKQ
— Sam Guzman (@SamGuzmanTV) September 9, 2023
