Trikweze Bridges targeting: Billy Napier reveals SEC validated controversial call on Florida DB

The SEC has confirmed that a hit by Florida defensive back Trikweze Bridges during the Texas A&M game that was flagged for targeting was called correctly on the field.

Florida had sought to review the ruling with the league office after it made a significant difference in the game. But that appeal didn’t go anywhere, with coach Billy Napier revealing on Wednesday night that the league had reaffirmed the call.

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Because the targeting call came just before halftime, Bridges has already served his time out and will be able to return to action this weekend against Mississippi State. Had the ejection occurred in the second half, he would have been forced to sit out the first half against the Bulldogs.

In any case, the call had significant implications for Florida.

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And even an ABC rules analyst appeared to side with the call being an extremely tough break for Florida based on how it unfolded.

“This is extremely unfortunate for the Florida player, because when you look for an indicator, yes, lowering the head is an indicator,” rules analyst Matt 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.

“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.”

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.

On the season, Bridges now has eight tackles.

Florida will be back in action this weekend against Mississippi State. The two programs have both started the season 1-2, so one will make its way back to .500 while the other will fall into an even bigger hole on Saturday.

The two teams are scheduled for a 12 p.m. ET kickoff on ESPN.