Michigan's Jaishawn Barham headbutted a ref on Nov. 29, 2025, drew a penalty but stayed in the game, sparking backlash.

On November 29, 2025, during a heated Michigan vs. Ohio State football game, Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after headbutting a referee but was not ejected, sparking widespread criticism. The contact occurred during a critical drive, leading to an automatic first down for Ohio State, which ultimately settled for a field goal. Despite the physical nature of the act, officials allowed Barham to remain in the game, prompting debate over officiating consistency and player conduct. The decision drew scrutiny from fans, analysts, and former referees, with concerns raised about the integrity of high-stakes college football matchups.