Florida DB Trikweze Bridges ejected for targeting, ESPN rules analyst reacts to controversial ruling
Florida defensive back Trikweze Bridges was ejected for targeting late in the first half against Texas A&M. He went to make a tackle on Aggies receiver Noah Thomas and, after review, the call stood.
Bridges appeared to be going to wrap up Thomas’ legs to make the tackle, but the officials ruled he led with the crown of the helmet – resulting in his ejection. ESPN rules analyst Matt Austin explained the reason for the call, noting the difficulty, but noting it was targeting by the letter of the law. However, Bridges was going to form a tackle, which made it tough to call.
The play occurred just before halftime, which means Bridges’ status won’t change for next week’s game against Mississippi State. However, the call quickly came into question considering where he hit Thomas.
“This is extremely unfortunate for the Florida player, because when you look for an indicator, yes, lowering the head is an indicator,” Austin said on the ABC broadcast. “But you always look for a launch and an attack and an attempt to punish the defender. This player wrapped up the receiver.
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“It looked like he was trying to make a form tackle. Yes, his head got a little low, he did hit with the crown. By the strictest definition, yes, this is targeting. But man, this is close to the line.”
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At the time of his ejection, Trikweze Bridges had three total tackles for Florida. He’s in his first season with the Gators after transferring from Oregon.
Florida struggled mightily in the first half of Saturday’s game against Texas A&M, particularly on defense. The Gators allowed 302 total yards, including 197 on the ground, as the Aggies took a commanding 20-0 lead into the break. On offense, UF only totaled 73 yards – with just seven coming on the ground as the running game struggled.
The pressure continues to ramp up around Billy Napier at Florida, and fans made their thoughts clear on his way to the locker room. As for what could happen next, Gators legend Steve Spurrier said he didn’t think anything would happen after this season during an appearance on The Paul Finebaum Show on Friday.
“I really feel like nothing’s gonna happen this year – I really don’t,” Spurrier said. “I mean, we’ve got a lot invested in Napier and his staff. And all these people. And he’s gonna get an opportunity to turn it around. And hopefully it’ll be this year. I think we need to have a winning season to get the fans back on good graces.”