The mini-spate of in-game pugilism in the SEC during the course of the wildly entertaining Arkansas-Mississippi State game Saturday, and will cost the Razorbacks a defensive starter for half of the next game.
In the third quarter of the Razorbacks’ double-overtime over the Bulldogs, linebacker Anthony Leon was ejected for what appeared to be a punch aimed at a MSU wide receiver. The punch triggers an automatic half-game suspension courtesy of the NCAA for the team’s next game.
Thus, Leon will sit out the first two quarters of the Hogs’ game this weekend against LSU.
Leon, who came into yesterday’s game tied for the team lead in tackles for loss with 10.5, has started all 11 games for the Razorbacks this season.
The senior LB won’t be the only player from the conference sitting out the first half this week. Auburn defensive linemen Michael Goggans and Mike Blanc, who went Ali on Georgia late in last weekend’s game, will serve their half-game suspension Friday in the Iron Bowl against Alabama.
Additionally, Kentucky sophomore cornerback Martavius Neloms and Vanderbilt junior wide receiver Umoh Udoh were involved in a fourth-quarter fight a week ago and were also suspended for a half game; Udoh served his suspension this past weekend, while Neloms will serve his this weekend.