Most Obvious Targeting Ejection Of College Football Season Happened Last Night
10/23/2024 10:09 AM
Bickering about penalties is a cherished pastime for most football fans. However, there should be no disputing a targeting call on Tuesday night.
Louisiana Tech improved to 3-4 with a 14-10 win over UTEP. The Conference USA matchup featured a brutal hit that led to an instant ejection.
Louisiana Tech linebacker Zach Zimos led with his helmet when launching himself into UTEP quarterback Syler Locklear. He violently shoved Locklear to the ground with both hands, leading to a nasty landing. Zimos got called for targeting and tossed from the game.
Here's a look at the nasty hit:
This hit on UTEP's Skyler Locklear will be the most egregious targeting you'll see. Louisiana Tech guy might as well have jogged off the field, no need to wait for review pic.twitter.com/oFN8as4jvv
— Maybe: Cole (@IAlwysDrinkBeer) October 23, 2024
According to the Ruston Daily Leader's Matt Belinson, it was the third straight game that a Bulldogs defender got called for targeting.
This also isn't the first incident between these two teams. Last year, Louisiana Tech suspended linebacker Brevin Randle after he stepped on the head of UTEP offensive lineman Steven Hubbard. Referees missed the incident and didn't flag him, but the play went viral on social media.
Locklear had completed eight of 14 passes for 84 yards and a touchdown before Tuesday's hit. He walked off with assistance but did not return to the game.
In his place, freshman JP Pickles ran for 53 yards while tallying just one passing yard on two attempts. Louisiana Tech scored the game-winning touchdown after an 11-play, 97-yard drive during the fourth quarter.
Let's hope Locklear avoids a significant injury, and it's possible Zimos will receive further punishment for his hit.
Related: Georgia Is Officially Protesting Controversial Call In Win vs. Texas
