The SEC and South Carolina jointly announced a one-game suspension of Gamecocks star edge rusher Dylan Stewart on Monday for "egregious contact" against an Alabama player during Saturday's matchup.
Stewart punched Crimson Tide tight end Josh Ford in the helmet.
South Carolina coach Shane Beamer said Sunday that Stewart was suspended indefinitely not just for the punching incident but other reasons as well. Stewart was seen arguing with coaches on the sideline during the game.
"Dylan Stewart's egregious contact reflects behavior that is unacceptable and not aligned with the standards of the Southeastern Conference," commissioner Greg Sankey in a statement. "Such action against an opponent carries a serious risk of injury and has no place in our conference competition. This suspension is appropriate, and any future misconduct by Dylan Stewart will result in more severe disciplinary action."
Added South Carolina athletic director Jeremiah Donati: "Our expectation at South Carolina, is that our student-athletes conduct themselves with the highest level of integrity at all times. Keeping one's composure, even in the most competitive environments, is our standard. That standard was not met in this instance and we support the league's decision along with our head coach's decision regarding the current disciplinary measures enacted in this case."
Stewart, a former freshman All-American and all-SEC pick, is regarded as one of the top edge rushers in the conference. ESPN NFL draft expert Jordan Reid recently projected Stewart as a top-10 pick in a mock draft.
South Carolina lost to Alabama 49-18, dropping to 2-2 on the season. The Gamecocks host No. 24 Kentucky on Saturday.
