What's Happening?
Vanderbilt football linebacker Langston Patterson was ejected from the game against South Carolina on September 13, 2025, due to a targeting penalty. The incident occurred with 1:52 remaining before halftime, as Patterson delivered a hit on South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Following the hit, Sellers was unable to continue playing and had to leave the game. The referees reviewed the play and decided to eject Patterson, although he will not miss Vanderbilt's next game against Georgia State since the penalty occurred in the first half. Patterson has been a key player for Vanderbilt, recording six tackles in three games this season, and had a notable performance in 2024 with 78 tackles and five tackles for loss over 11 games.
Why It's Important?
The ejection of Langston Patterson is significant as it impacts Vanderbilt's defensive lineup during the game against South Carolina. Patterson's absence could affect the team's defensive strategy and performance, especially given his contributions in previous games. The targeting penalty highlights ongoing concerns about player safety and the enforcement of rules designed to protect athletes from dangerous hits. This incident may prompt discussions within college football about the effectiveness and consistency of targeting rules and their impact on game dynamics. Additionally, South Carolina's quarterback situation is affected, as backup quarterback Luke Doty had to step in, potentially altering the team's offensive capabilities.
What's Next?
Vanderbilt will need to adjust their defensive strategy for the remainder of the game against South Carolina without Patterson. The team will also prepare for their upcoming game against Georgia State, where Patterson will be eligible to play. South Carolina will have to rely on backup quarterback Luke Doty for the rest of the game, which may influence their offensive approach. The incident may lead to further scrutiny of targeting rules and their application in college football, possibly prompting discussions among coaches, players, and officials about rule modifications or enforcement practices.
