Northern Illinois has suspended linebacker Antonio Jones-Davis a game for his eye gouging in Saturday’s game against San Diego State.
CBS Sports Net video caught Jones-Davis gouging the eyes of San Diego State running back Rashaad Penny during the first quarter of the game, causing Penny to leave with his hands by his face.
Shame on you Antonio Jones Davis ,LB for @NIU_Football who intentionally poked @Aztec_Football #RashaadPenny in the eyes. Should be ejected! pic.twitter.com/PEpH4T2UzH
— Lya Vallat (@Ballgirl8) October 1, 2017
Northern Illinois saw the video of the dirty, unsportsmanlike play from Jones-Davis and took action. The Huskies suspended Jones-Davis for the team’s next game.
“After seeing the video of the incident that occurred during a kickoff of last night’s game at San Diego State, I have suspended linebacker Antonio Jones-Davis for the upcoming game versus Kent State,” NIU head coach Rod Carey said in a statement Sunday, via College Football Talk. “Antonio’s action is not indicative of his character, nor that of our players or coaching staff, and does not reflect the values upon which our program has been built.
“Last night’s game was extremely hard-fought, it was emotional and it was a chippy game which at times crossed the line on both sides as evidenced by the number of post-play penalties. However, Antonio’s action in that emotional moment was completely unacceptable, and he understands that he must face the consequences.
“In speaking to Antonio today, he has taken full responsibility for his actions and voiced to me his disappointment in himself that he embarrassed the university and the football program.
“On behalf of our football program, I want to apologize to San Diego State, Coach Long and SDSU player Rashaad Penny. Antonio and I will be reaching out personally to them in the near future. I’m confident Antonio, and our entire team, will learn from this incident and be better going forward.”
