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Sometimes frustration sets in after being pushed around the way Michigan has Maryland for much of Saturday’s game. However, that does not give the excuse to make such an ill-advised play as Maryland’s Tre Watson did in the third quarter.
The Terrapins linebacker delivered a devastating and scary blindside hit to Michigan wide receiver Donovan People-Jones. The hit got Watson ejected for the remainder of the game. What may be even more troubling for the Terrapins is their leading tackler, who had 10 tackles on Saturday, will have to sit out the first half of Maryland’s next game versus Rutgers.
I'm no expert, but this looks like a pretty clear targeting call on Tre Watson. pic.twitter.com/lWIPOeVIym
— Justin Fitzgerald (@jfitzgerald52) October 6, 2018
On the play, People-Jones was flagged for an illegal block, but as there was an injury timeout officials reviewed Watson’s hit after People-Jones’ infraction. Unfortunately, it was clear Watson targeted People-Jones by the definition of the rule, as he dipped his helmet to make an unnecessary hit.
Crazy play at Michigan that led to an ejection of @TerpsFootball's Tre Watson for targeting. pic.twitter.com/2bksPjwAis
— Michigan On BTN (@MichiganOnBTN) October 6, 2018
Amazingly, People-Jones, who was checked for concussion returned on the same series and would score a 34-yard touchdown reception.
Watson was the second Maryland defender to be ejected in the third quarter for targeting, joining defensive back Rayshad Lewis was also ejected. He too will sit out the first half of the Rutgers’ game.
