Often times, targeting calls in college football are controversial. That was not the case in tonight’s Boston College-Pitt game.
Boston College defensive back Khari Johnson was ejected in the first half for perhaps the most blatant example of targeting we’ve seen in a while, maybe ever.
Pitt tight end Malcolm Epps had a step on BC defender KC Price when he leaped in the air to try and bring down the pass thrown his way.
Johnson, who was the last line of defense, launched himself head-first into Epps, even tilting his head at the last moment for good measure.
People always ask what targeting is. This. This is targeting. pic.twitter.com/6Xkc8ifnxh
— Alex Kuhn (@Alexkuhn523) November 17, 2023
That is an easy call for the official to make. Johnson’s night is over, but because he was kicked out in the first half, he won’t miss any time in next week’s regular season finale against Miami.
Despite entering tonight’s game at 2-8 on the season, Pitt leads the 6-4 Eagles 10-6 at halftime. The Panthers found the end zone on a touchdown run by quarterback Nate Yarnell.
You can watch the second half of BC-Pitt on ESPN.