VIDEO: Tennessee's Jeremy Pruitt Loses it on Refs After Vols Player Called for Targeting
By Andy Loughmiller
Tennessee's head coach hasn't been able to lead his team to a winning record thus far in 2019, but nobody can question Jeremy Pruitt's passion. He was livid after the referees upheld a targeting penalty that led to one of his players being ejected against South Carolina, and made sure the zebras knew exactly how he felt about it.
The latest chronicles of Pruitt Peeved: South Carolina Edition pic.twitter.com/yLWkKdiO4y
— Jesse Simonton (@JesseReSimonton) October 26, 2019
The officials quickly became aware of Pruitt's thoughts regarding the targeting penalty, and he was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct after giving them an earfull. Pruitt was practically begging to be penalized for his sideline temper tantrum by repeatedly pointing his finger such as he did.
Unsportsmanlike conduct is called on Jeremy Pruitt.
— WATE Sports (@WATESports) October 26, 2019
SC with the ball on the Tennessee 4-yard line.
Pruitt has been under heavy scrutiny since the Volunteers suffered an upset loss at home in their opening game of the season to Georgia State. Perhaps this outburst was his way of letting out his frustration.
We understand defending your players, as well as being upset due to bad calls. However, the Tennessee defender who was flagged for targeting and subsequently ejected did lead with his helmet which justifies the call on the field.
Tennessee DL Darel Middleton has been tossed for targeting. It's under review and Jeremy Pruitt is livid but it looks like Middleton knew the moment he did it. Not malicious, but ruling confirmed. Gamecocks first-and-goal.
— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) October 26, 2019
Pruitt is likely just trying to show his players that he has their back. That said, he really did not need to blow a gasket like this.
Tennessee, to its credit, saw things through and won the game. With that in mind, perhaps Coach Pruitt will keep dialing up the vitriol for the sake of good luck.