A referee's slip between snaps sent East Carolina freshman defensive back David Coleman Jr. to the hospital on Saturday, and the clip of it has spread across the college football world.

A referee's misstep between plays sent East Carolina freshman defensive back David Coleman Jr. to the hospital on Saturday, with footage of the incident quickly circulating throughout the college football community.

The play occurred during the Pirates' 17-9 victory over Temple. An official was moving toward the line of scrimmage when he shifted direction, lost his balance and collided with Coleman's right leg as the defensive back was returning to his position.

Coleman fell awkwardly, with his leg appearing to twist unnaturally. He remained on the turf momentarily before receiving assistance to stand. Unable to bear weight on the leg, he was helped by coaches to the sideline and into the medical tent.

The ESPN broadcast confirmed he was transported to the hospital. The official seemed to be umpire Jonathan Kirk, who was positioning himself in his standard spot ahead of the safeties, reports the Irish Star.

Coleman is a three-star prospect from Kingsland, Georgia, in the 2026 recruiting class and was listed No. 1266 nationally and No. 116 among safeties according to 247Sports' composite rankings.

Footage of the collision rapidly gained traction on social media, generating reactions ranging from shock to outrage.

Numerous fans expressed they had never witnessed such an incident, while others demanded the official be dismissed or suggested the player pursue legal recourse.

East Carolina head coach Blake Harrell was captured on the sideline visibly furious with the referees as he watched his standout freshman depart. The Pirates secured the victory regardless.

TJ Engleman Jr. rushed for 107 yards, highlighted by a 19-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter that extended the lead to 17-3.

Ashton Gray punched in a one-yard scoring run to complete a 77-yard march in the opening half, while Noah Perez contributed a field goal for a 10-3 advantage at the break.

The defense sealed the outcome with three second-half picks, courtesy of Zyeir Gamble, Angelo Ross and Ashton Levells-Mitchell, which stifled a Temple attack that managed all of its scoring through Carl Hardin field goals. Mitch Griffis passed for 130 yards, as East Carolina dominated the yardage battle 352-249 to claim its sixth consecutive triumph in the rivalry.

East Carolina improved to 4-4 overall and 2-2 in the American Conference and travels to South Florida on Friday. Temple dropped to 2-6 and faces Navy next Saturday.