Texas DL Vernon Broughton ejected for targeting late in second half vs Vanderbilt

Texas defensive lineman Vernon Broughton has been ejected from Saturday’s game against Vanderbilt due to targeting. Broughton hit quarterback Diego Pavia late in the fourth quarter in what could turn out to be a game-changing play.

Freshman defensive back Kobe Black secured an interception and wound up returning it for a touchdown, giving Texas a 34-17 lead for a brief moment. Instead, a roughing the passer flag was thrown before the booth called down for a targeting review. The touchdown was wiped off the board, Vanderbilt got the ball back and even gained 15 yards in their effort to complete a late second half comeback.

The play was confirmed, meaning Broughton was thrown out of the game. By rule, he will also miss the first half of Texas’ next game. Florida will come to Austin on Nov. 2 following a bye week. They will be without a starting defensive lineman to begin the game.

For now, losing Broughton is more of a long-term problem for Steve Sarkisian. He needs his team to hunker down for another few minutes as Vanderbilt is currently driving, only down 10 points. Any kind of score plus an onside kick recovery would give the Commodores a chance to potentially send the game to overtime.

The Texas defense has done a great job slowing down Pavia as both of their touchdowns have come on short fields. Even with the called back interception due to the penalty, multiple turnovers have been forced by the Longhorns. They have just not turned into points, keeping Vandy within striking distance.

A win would keep a clear path toward the College Football Playoff and be a nice response following the loss to Georgia. Just a few more plays are required, even if Broughton will not be on the field for the final stretch.