Oregon receiver Traeshon Holden was ejected from a game against Ohio State for unsportsmanlike conduct after spitting on Buckeyes cornerback Davison Igbinosun. This incident occurred in the second quarter when Holden reacted to a push from Igbinosun by spitting at his facemask. The ejection marked the third such incident in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) this season. Earlier, Memphis running back Mario Anderson Jr. was ejected for spitting on a South Florida player, and SMU defensive back Brandon Crossley faced ejection for a similar offense against a Nevada player on August 24.
Holden later issued an apology on social media, addressing his teammates, coaches, fans, and Igbinosun. He acknowledged that his actions were disrespectful and a betrayal of the values of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect that he strives to embody as a student-athlete. Holden expressed his commitment to making meaningful changes in managing his emotions during competition and setting a better example for his teammates and the broader community.
According to Steve Shaw, the NCAA supervisor of officials, spitting on an opponent is considered a flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that requires ejection. While such incidents do not seem to be a new trend, they could merit discussion with conference supervisors.
Holden had one catch for 32 yards before his ejection. The senior receiver was second on the Ducks with three touchdown catches this season and had at least three receptions in Oregon’s previous six games dating back to last season.
Holden later issued an apology on social media, addressing his teammates, coaches, fans, and Igbinosun. He acknowledged that his actions were disrespectful and a betrayal of the values of sportsmanship, integrity, and respect that he strives to embody as a student-athlete. Holden expressed his commitment to making meaningful changes in managing his emotions during competition and setting a better example for his teammates and the broader community.
According to Steve Shaw, the NCAA supervisor of officials, spitting on an opponent is considered a flagrant unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that requires ejection. While such incidents do not seem to be a new trend, they could merit discussion with conference supervisors.
Holden had one catch for 32 yards before his ejection. The senior receiver was second on the Ducks with three touchdown catches this season and had at least three receptions in Oregon’s previous six games dating back to last season.
