Michigan linebacker Jaishawn Barham will be suspended for the first half of the game against No. 18 Oklahoma after a targeting call against him was upheld following an appeal. The decision came after the Wolverines contested the ruling, with officials stating that they believe the targeting rule needs to be re-evaluated.
Barham, a key player for Michigan, was involved in a collision with an Oklahoma player during the game, which led to the targeting call. The team has since called for a review of the rule, claiming that it unnecessarily penalizes players for incidental contact. The suspension is expected to have a minimal impact on the team’s strategy, as Barham is likely to return for the second half of the game.
This incident has sparked a broader discussion in college football about the effectiveness of the targeting rule. Coaches and players from various teams have weighed in, with some supporting the rule as a way to protect players from dangerous hits, while others argue it’s too strict and hinders the flow of the game. The NCAA is expected to provide further clarification on the rule’s application in the coming weeks.