In Boulder, Colorado, DJ McKinney, a defensive back for the team, experienced a moment of exhilaration after scoring a pick-6 during a dominant 52-0 victory against Oklahoma State. However, his celebration didn’t sit well with the officials. After intercepting the ball and returning it 13 yards for a touchdown, McKinney set the ball down, lifted his leg, and pretended to relieve himself like a dog. This unsportsmanlike act led to a penalty, which pushed the subsequent kickoff back from the 35 to the 20-yard line.

Unlike a similar celebration five years ago in a rival game between Mississippi and Mississippi State that had significant consequences, McKinney’s antics didn’t impact the game in the same way. During that 2018 Egg Bowl, Ole Miss receiver Elijah Moore scored a late touchdown and celebrated by mimicking the same act. His unsportsmanlike conduct penalty resulted in the extra point attempt being moved back 15 yards, which they subsequently missed, leading to Mississippi State’s narrow victory with a final score of 21-20.

As fans continue to follow college football this season, it’s crucial to note how celebrations can lead to penalties, illustrating the ongoing debate over player conduct and the enforcement of sportsmanship rules in high-stakes games.