Miss Utah USA is explaining her meltdown that took place during the question-and-answer session of the Miss USA pageant as a case of nerves, reports TMZ.com.

As previously reported, Marissa Powell, 21, got into trouble with a halting response that made little sense. Her question was about salary inequality for women.

Powell is telling friends that she spaced out during the question because she was anxious and never really heard what was asked of her, TMZ notes. She said she tried to fake an answer, but just grew more flustered as she pressed forward.