The UNLV Rebels appeared to make a key third-down stop against Syracuse in overtime on Friday night, stopping the Orange on 3rd-and-20 and likely forcing a game-tying field goal attempt.

Then came the controversial flag.

Defensive tackle Alexander Whitmore was flagged for roughing the passer as he hit Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord just as the ball was released. Whitemore was initially called for targeting, but it was removed upon review.

The penalty gave Syracuse a first down and new life after UNLV scored a field goal on the first overtime possession to take a 41-38 lead. Syracuse drove to the 1-yard line, then running back LeQuint Allen fought through a tackle and scored the game-winning touchdown.

After the 44-41 loss for UNLV, many fans took to social media to express outrage over the call.

"Refs just absolutely ruined UNLV/Syracuse and robbed UNLV," one person wrote. "That was one of the most atrocious roughing the passer calls I've ever seen. You CANNOT call that on a 3rd and 20 screen play in OT. These refs need to be fined and brought to heel."

"The call is reviewed and they take away the targeting but cannot fix their error of roughing the passer and it costs UNLV the game and a possible playoff spot," another added. "Sad that the refs made that decision tonight and not the players on the field."

The loss will likely drop No. 25 UNLV out of the rankings.

Related: UNLV Rebels vs. Syracuse Orange Score Prediction