Corn was scouted in Washington county and it was observed that some ears had galls on them.
Conclusion
The galls were identified as corn smut in the field by a specialist. Corn smut is caused by fungus Ustilago maydis, and it can happen in the stalk, the leaves, the ears and the tassels. Some hybrids are more resistant to it and avoiding mechanical and herbicide injury reduces the risk for it.