Week 0 of the college football season didn't disappoint. In addition to New Mexico State Aggies quarterback Diego Pavia having his helmet turned entirely around and throwing the ball out of bounds, San Diego State Aztecs college football quarterback Jalen Mayden avoided an intentional grounding call in the most hilarious way.
Facing some intense pressure from two Ohio University defenders, Mayden retreated in the pocket, rolled out slightly and got rid of the ball.
It's pretty standard procedure to avoid getting sacked, maintain field position and avoid intentional grounding — but look at where he threw the ball.
San Diego State QB Jalen Mayden avoids intentional grounding by firing the ball at the referee ?pic.twitter.com/i35YRrZowy
— 247Sports (@247Sports) August 26, 2023
That's right — he threw it right at the right cheek of the referee.
The Aztecs, who were at home, won the game 20-13. Mayden completed 17 of 27 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns. In that stat line, though, we now know that one of those 27 attempts was an incomplete — off a referee's face.
Mayden tossed both touchdowns to Mark Redman, who caught five passes for 62 yards.
Now 1-0, the Aztecs will stay home for their Sept. 2 matchup against Idaho State. Heading into this game, referees should stay clear of Mayden's cannon for an arm and perhaps wear their own helmets.
