Pat Narduzzi had an interesting response when asked about a controversial unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that took place in the second half of FSU’s win vs. the Panthers on Saturday night.

Pitt tight end Gavin Bartholomew was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct for saying something to an official while on the sideline after a 3rd down play. The penalty took Pitt out of field goal range when the Panthers were in position to potentially tie the game. FSU scored on its ensuing drive and went on to win the game 24-7.

After the game, Narduzzi denied that Bartholomew said anything to the officials.

“Gavin didn’t say anything to the officials,” Narduzzi said. “So they were talking about happy birthday or something. I don’t know what, but it wasn’t one person. It wasn’t Gavin.

“I think maybe that’s who they called it on, but just chippy like on any sideline. I’ve never seen it called before. I don’t get it. I’ve seen a lot of things.”

However, ESPN’s broadcast appears to clearly show Pitt coaches on the sideline show frustration toward Bartholomew after the flag was thrown. Here’s a replay from the broadcast:

Florida State moved to 9-0 on the season with the win over the Panthers on Saturday.