Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham has been suspended for the first half of the upcoming game against Oklahoma after being ejected for targeting in the second half of the season opener against New Mexico.
In the opener, Barham came off the edge on a blitz against New Mexico quarterback Jack Layne. Although the ball appeared to come loose and Barham recovered it and was headed for a potential score, officials ruled the play a first down for New Mexico on a targeting call. Barham was ejected for the hit, with the ruling citing contact to the head/neck area.
The sequence occurred as Michigan led 27-10. New Mexico later benefited from the call as the Lobos extended a drive that culminated in a touchdown, a turn of events that sparked discussion among fans about the targeting rule and its application. Barham’s ejection meant he would miss the second half of the New Mexico game and the first half of Michigan’s next game against Oklahoma.
The suspension will impact Michigan’s defense in a high-profile matchup next week. The targeting rule, which requires automatic ejection and a subsequent suspension in many cases, is designed to protect player safety by penalizing dangerous hits, but it also fuels ongoing debate about officiating consistency and judgment on the field.
Additional context: Barham has been a key contributor on Michigan’s defense, and the team will need to rely on depth at linebacker to fill the first-half absence against Oklahoma. Michigan’s coaching staff may emphasize disciplined tackling and situational awareness to prevent further penalties while the suspension is in effect.
Bottom line: The incident highlights the ongoing debate over targeting enforcement in college football, even as Michigan adjusts on the fly for a critical early-season test. Barham will return to full participation after the first half against Oklahoma, and Michigan will look to maintain momentum as they move forward.