MIAMI — A controversial targeting call has thrown a wrench into Miami’s championship aspirations, as Hurricanes defensive back Xavier Lucas will miss the first half of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Indiana on Monday night.
Targeting Rule Faces Scrutiny Ahead of Championship Clash
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The suspension stems from a fourth-quarter call during the CFP Semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl, sparking debate over the fairness and consistency of the rule.
- Xavier Lucas’s targeting ejection will sideline him for the first half of the championship game.
- Miami coach Mario Cristobal believes the call was “unjustly administered.”
- The Hurricanes face depth challenges at cornerback against Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
- OJ Frederique Jr. is fully healthy and prepared to contribute.
Lucas was ejected from the Fiesta Bowl after a hit on Ole Miss wide receiver Cayden Lee with 8:54 remaining. Helmets collided during the tackle, and the call was upheld upon review. “We feel it was unjustly administered, and now it impacts the last game of the season,” Cristobal said Sunday, voicing his frustration with the outcome.
A Rule Under Fire
The current targeting rule dictates that any player flagged for targeting is immediately ejected. If the infraction occurs in the second half, the player also faces a suspension for the first half of their team’s next game. This stringent penalty is now under scrutiny, particularly as it impacts a pivotal championship matchup.
The suspension creates a significant challenge for Miami’s defense, especially considering existing depth concerns at the cornerback position. They will be tasked with containing Indiana’s high-powered offense, led by Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza.
Depth Concerns and Next-Man Mentality
Adding to the defensive uncertainty, Damari Brown remains day-to-day with a foot injury, having not played since November 29th. OJ Frederique Jr., who was limited to just six snaps in the Fiesta Bowl due to a previous injury sustained against Ohio State, declared himself “100% healthy” at media day on Saturday.
“I’m full to go,” Frederique said. “I’m ready to show my opponent what I can do.”
Frederique acknowledged the questions surrounding Miami’s ability to defend against Indiana with Lucas sidelined, but emphasized the team’s resilient mindset. “One thing we talk a lot about in our unit room is that next-man mentality,” he explained. “Any guy up has to be ready, and I feel like they are going to be ready.”
