Title: Colorado State vs. No. 18 Colorado: Chippy Rivalry Game Marred by Controversial Hit on Colorado Star Travis Hunter
Subtitle: NBA Star LeBron James and Former NFL Standout J.J. Watt Criticize Lack of Targeting Call
Date: [Insert Date]
In a highly anticipated matchup between in-state rivals Colorado State and No. 18 Colorado, emotions ran high on the field as both teams clashed in a chippy first half. The game saw a staggering 16 penalties called, 11 of which were in the opening quarter alone.
One incident that ignited controversy occurred when Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter was on the receiving end of an unnecessary roughness penalty. After attempting to connect with Hunter on a deep pass, quarterback Shedeur Sanders unleashed a throw that was met with a forceful hit to Hunter’s chest. The impact left the Buffaloes star down on the field for several moments before regaining his composure.
Hunter received immediate medical attention on the sideline but bravely returned to the game in the late first quarter. He continued playing throughout the remainder of the first half; however, it was later revealed that he left the stadium in the second half and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
Although the school did not immediately disclose the exact reason for Hunter’s hospitalization, the Rams were penalized twice during the play. Henry Blackburn was called for pass interference, while nickel back Ayden Hector was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct due to a late hit on Hunter’s midsection that occurred out of bounds.
While Hunter was down on the field following the hit, Sanders confronted Blackburn and appeared to exchange words with him. The penalties proved costly for Colorado State, as they aided their opponents in advancing the ball down the field, resulting in a touchdown and leveling the game at 14-14.
The controversial hit on Hunter did not escape the attention of prominent figures in the sports world. NBA star LeBron James took to social media to question the lack of a targeting call, expressing his confusion over the difference between this hit and previous incidents that led to ejections. James deemed the hit on Hunter as “blatant and uncalled for, in my opinion!”
J.J. Watt, a former NFL standout, also voiced his disapproval on social media, wondering why Blackburn was not ejected from the game following his hit on Hunter.
Travis Hunter has been a crucial contributor to Colorado’s impressive 2-0 start to the season. On offense, he has recorded 14 receptions for 192 yards, while also making valuable contributions on defense with seven tackles and an interception. Before leaving the game, Hunter had already made two receptions for 21 yards and two total tackles.
As the game progresses, questions surrounding the well-being of Travis Hunter and the targeting incident continue to draw attention. The debate surrounding player safety and the enforcement of penalties is expected to intensify in the days to come.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.