SEC announces suspensions for Florida, Tennessee players for late-game fight
As Saturday’s game between Florida and Tennessee was winding down, there was an altercation between the two SEC East rivals. A late timeout from Vols head coach Josh Heupel meant Graham Mertz had to run one more play. A defender knocked him down, causing some Gators to defend their quarterback, and a late-game fight ensued.
Disciplinary actions have now occurred, with the SEC handing out four suspensions. None are for an entire game, though. Three Florida players and one Tennessee player will miss the first half of both team’s respective nonconference games next week.
“The suspensions were determined after video review and consultation between the Southeastern Conference Office, the University of Florida and the University of Tennessee,” a statement from the SEC said.
“Offensive lineman Damieon George, offensive lineman Micah Mazzccua and tight end Dante Zanders of Florida will be suspended for the first half of the Gators’ game with Charlotte on Saturday in Gainesville. Defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott of Tennessee will be suspended for the first half of the Volunteers’ game with UTSA on Saturday in Knoxville.”
Both teams will be thankful the suspensions are not occurring against SEC opponents. Whether or not those four players were on the field, wins are expected from both Florida and Tennessee this week. However, the SEC felt as if the incident was big enough to hand out punishments.
Josh Heupel gives reaction to Florida-Tennessee fight
The main reason Florida and Tennessee were still playing with just seconds remaining was due to Heupel calling a timeout. A fourth down was about to take place, potentially giving the Volunteers time to get back into the game. At least, that’s the explanation Heupel gave during his postgame press conference.
“That sequence right there, we’re trying to get the ball back, right,” Heupel said. “Trying to take a shot at the end zone. I don’t know if we’re gonna have enough time for an onside and maybe get it and get a shot back, but you’re trying to finish and compete the right way.”
“He’s dancing around. Do you want the targeting? Obviously not, but the guy’s dancing around, so you’ve got to go tackle the guy too. So, do we want to be composed in that situation and all situations? Absolutely.”
Heupel will now be down a defensive lineman in the first half of Saturday’s game against UTSA in Knoxville. Something the Tennessee head coach probably wishes he could have avoided.