Mario Cristobal bemoans targeting call on Miami’s Xavier Lucas

Miami– storm Coach Mario Cristobal said the penalties that came with targeting calls made in the second half needed to be re-evaluated.

miami defensive back xavier lucas Will have to sit out the first half of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against Indiana On Monday night because he was called for targeting in the fourth quarter of the CFP semifinal at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl.

Any player called for targeting is ejected from the game. If the targeting call occurs in the second half, the player is ejected and suspended for the first half of his team’s next game.

“We feel it was administered unjustly and now it’s having an impact on the last game of the season,” Cristobal said Sunday.

Lucas was called for targeting with 8:54 left for the hit. ole miss wide receiver caden lee. When Lucas moved forward to make the tackle, the players’ helmets collided. Upon review the call was confirmed.

The first-half suspension has put Miami in a bit of a precarious position, as the Hurricanes face a tough upset against the reigning Heisman Trophy winner. Fernando Mendoza And the high-powered Indiana offense.

damari brown Feet hurt every day; He has not played any match since November 29. oj frederick jragainst which the injury was inflicted Ohio StatePlayed only six snaps in the Fiesta Bowl.

Frederick said at media day on Saturday that he is 100% healthy, and he is not listed on the Miami availability report.

“I’m ready to go,” Frederick said. “I’m ready to show my opponent what I can do.”

Frederick said he knows many are questioning whether Miami’s defensive teams can keep up with Indiana given Lucas’ suspension, but he’s ready for the challenge.

“One thing we talk about a lot in our unit room is the next man up mentality,” Frederick said. “Anybody has to be ready, and I think they’re going to be ready.”