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Andrea Adelson
MIAMI — University of Miami coach Mario Cristobal stated that the penalties associated with a targeting call issued in the second half require re-assessment.
Miami’s defensive back Xavier Lucas is required to miss the first half of the College Football Playoff national championship matchup against Indiana on Monday night due to a targeting call made in the fourth quarter of the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl semifinal.
Any player who is penalized for targeting is removed from the game. When the targeting infraction occurs in the second half, the player is ejected and banned from the first half of the subsequent game.
Ole Miss receiver Cayden Lee. The players’ helmets collided as Lucas made the tackle attempt. The ruling was upheld after review.
The first-half suspension leaves Miami facing a challenging dilemma due to concerns about their cornerback depth, especially against Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza and Indiana’s potent offense.
Damari Brown is still considered day-to-day with a foot injury; he hasn’t participated since Nov. 29. OJ Frederique Jr., who sustained an injury in the matchup against Ohio State, played only six snaps in the Fiesta Bowl.
Frederique mentioned on Saturday during media day that he is at full strength and is not included on the Miami availability list.
«I’m all set,» Frederique declared. «I’m eager to demonstrate my abilities to my opponent.»
Frederique acknowledged that many observers are questioning whether Miami’s defensive backs can match up with Indiana due to Lucas’s suspension, and they are prepared for the challenge.
«One key topic we frequently discuss in our unit room is the next man mentality,» Frederique noted. «Every player must be ready, and I believe they will be prepared.»
