A massive brawl broke out following Saturday night’s bowl game between South Alabama and Eastern Michigan.
South Alabama defeated Eastern Michigan, 59-10, in the 68 Ventures Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. After the game, South Alabama lined up and faced the school band to sing the Jaguars’ alma mater. While that was going on, Eastern Michigan defensive back Korey Hernandez sprinted over and sucker-punched South Alabama defensive back Jamarrien Burt in the back of the helmet.
Several South Alabama players jumped in to defend Burt and a brawl broke out.
After losing the 68 Ventures Bowl 59-10, an Eastern Michigan player sucker punched a South Alabama player, which led to a brawl.
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) December 24, 2023
You can see another angle below:
Video 2 of 2 pic.twitter.com/EQIGGGIvOP
— Scott W. Hunter (@SWHesq) December 24, 2023
Creg Stephenson of AL.com notes that Hernandez was involved in a sideline altercation following a play in the second quarter. South Alabama defensive back Brian Dillard, who is Burt’s older brother, was also part of that scuffle. Dillard was one of the USA players who was involved in the postgame brawl.
South Alabama coach Kane Wommack was asked about the incident following his team’s blowout victory. He said the Jaguars will “certainly take ownership of our part” and look into what led to the fight. Eastern Michigan coach Chris Creighton made similar comments, telling reporters that “anything short of being first-class is not living up to the standard that we have in Eastern Michigan football.”
South Alabama finished their season 7-6 with the win. Eastern Michigan fell to 6-7.
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