Christian Roland-Wallace suspended for first half of USC - Nevada, stemming from 2022 ejection
USC defensive back Christian Roland-Wallace is suspended for the first half of this Saturday’s game against Nevada, due to NCAA rules regarding an ejection in the second half of the final game of the 2022 season.
Roland-Wallace, then playing for the Arizona Wildcats, was one of five players ejected from the Territorial Cup during the second half. Four of those players returned to college football this season. Roland-Wallace is the only one suiting up for a different program.
A statement from the Pac-12 regarding the suspensions:
“All four student-athletes with remaining eligibility involved in the Arizona State at Arizona altercation near the conclusion of the final game of the 2022 season will serve their first half suspensions in Week One of 2023, per NCAA rules.”
Roland-Wallace played for USC in its Week 0 win against San Jose State. He finished with one tackle and one pass deflection.
Head coach Lincoln Riley specifically mentioned Roland-Wallace during his media availability on Thursday as a player who “continues to practice well.” While he won’t be eligible to play for the first 30 minutes, it won’t be surprising to see him make a big impact once he can see the field. He’s been an extremely versatile addition to the USC secondary, able to play all five spots in the defensive backfield. Against San Jose State, Roland-Wallace played some nickel as well as cornerback.
Arizona defensive lineman Tia Savea and Arizona State linebacker Will Shaffer and wide receiver Elihjah Badger are the other players ejected last season who will serve their first-half suspensions this week, for the Wildcats and Sun Devils, respectively.
