PITTSBURGH — Freshman linebacker Sammy Brown of the Clemson football team was ejected for targeting during the second quarter of Saturday’s match against Pitt. This incident occurred on a critical third-and-17 play when Brown hit Panthers quarterback Nate Yarnell in the head, following Yarnell’s pass. Officials assessed the situation and ruled both roughing the passer and targeting, which was later upheld after a review. Consequently, Brown was forced to leave the game before the half, but he will be eligible to return for next week’s matchup against The Citadel.
During the first half of the game, Clemson’s defense showcased its strength by putting significant pressure on Yarnell, resulting in four sacks. However, Brown’s late hit resulted in a 15-yard penalty that allowed Pittsburgh an automatic first down, though they failed to capitalize on the opportunity and were forced to punt.
Brown’s ejection serves as a reminder of the college football’s strict rules regarding player safety, particularly protecting quarterbacks from dangerous hits. As hard as these calls may be for young athletes, it is clear that the emphasis on player safety is a priority for college football.
Looking ahead, Brown’s eligibility for the next game offers a silver lining, as he can continue to develop and contribute to his team’s success while learning from this experience. This incident also highlights the challenges players face in adapting to the stringent enforcement of safety regulations in the sport.