On Monday morning, it was announced that Les Miles will suspend offensive lineman Josh Boutte for LSU’s next game against Jacksonville State for a late hit on Wisconsin safety D’Cota Dixon following his interception.
With just a minute left in the game and LSU down by two, the Tigers were driving, but their hopes of making a comeback were dashed when Dixon picked off LSU QB Brandon Harris. Shortly after the play was called dead, Boutte blindsided Dixon, warranting the suspension.
Boutte reportedly reached out to Dixon on Monday morning to apologize for the hit. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey issued the following statement in a press release:
“I have independently reviewed the play resulting in the ejection of Josh Boutte near the end of LSU’s game against Wisconsin on Saturday. The game officials correctly assessed a penalty and ejection for Mr. Boutte’s flagrant contact, which occurred well after the play had concluded. I have accepted the one-game suspension imposed by Les Miles and, because LSU has taken appropriate action, have determined that no additional penalty shall be imposed by the Conference office.”
In an LSU Athletics Communications press release, Les Miles offered his thoughts:
“Josh made a mistake and will serve a one-game suspension because of it. Even though this was done by mistake, a play like this does not belong in the game of football and therefore action must be taken. This play does not define Josh as a person and is not indicative of the type of player he is. We sincerely apologize for his mistake.”
There have been no injuries reported for Dixon. LSU will face Jacksonville State at home next Saturday, and the Badgers get Akron at Camp Randall the same day to kick off their home schedule this year.
Image courtesy of Yahoo Sports