Colorado Safety Shilo Sanders Ejected for Targeting in Game Against UCLA
In a game filled with intense action and turnovers, Colorado safety Shilo Sanders made headlines for all the wrong reasons. During the first half of CU’s game against UCLA on Saturday, Sanders was ejected for targeting after a brutal hit on UCLA’s Carsen Ryan.
Sanders, the son of Colorado head coach Deion Sanders, delivered a massive blow to Ryan late in the second quarter. While it appeared that Sanders was attempting to lead with his shoulder, the crown of his helmet made contact with the lower part of Ryan’s facemask.
The consequences of the hit were immediate. Sanders received a 15-yard penalty for targeting, and the play was reviewed and confirmed, resulting in his disqualification for the rest of the game. However, there is a silver lining for Sanders as the targeting penalty occurred in the first half, making him eligible to return for next week’s game against No. 11 Oregon State at home.
Sanders initially celebrated the hit, flexing towards the sideline in a triumphant display. However, his elation quickly turned to disappointment when he saw the flag thrown on the play, realizing the repercussions of his actions.
During a halftime interview with ABC’s Holly Rowe, Deion Sanders, Shilo’s father and Colorado’s head coach, expressed his disbelief at the targeting call, labeling it as “horrendous.”
Despite the unfortunate incident, Shilo Sanders demonstrated his prowess earlier in the game. He forced a fumble with a powerful hit on UCLA running back Carson Steele, showcasing his impact on Colorado’s defense. This was one of four turnovers that Colorado managed to force in the first half, with Steele accounting for two fumbles and star cornerback Travis Hunter intercepting two passes.
However, despite their defensive efforts, Colorado entered the halftime locker room trailing UCLA by a slim margin of 7-6.
The ejection of Shilo Sanders for targeting serves as a reminder of the heightened focus on player safety in college football. While the intent to lead with the shoulder was evident, the collision of helmets with an opponent’s facemask is a dangerous play that necessitates such penalties.
As the game progresses and player safety remains paramount, it is crucial for players and coaches to acknowledge and adapt to the rules surrounding targeting. With his disqualification, Shilo Sanders will have the opportunity to reflect on this incident and make the necessary adjustments to ensure a safer game in the future.