Jordan Wright Ejected for Targeting in UConn vs. Maryland Game

UConn defensive back Jordan Wright was ejected from Saturday's game against Maryland after his hit on quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. was flagged for targeting. The hit sent Edwards to the ground and his helmet flying off his head.

**Paragraph 1:** UConn defensive back Jordan Wright was ejected from Saturday's game against Maryland after his hit on quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. was flagged for targeting. The hit occurred in the second quarter when Edwards, who replaced Taulia Tagovailoa as Maryland's starting quarterback this year, took off to scramble for a first down.

**Paragraph 2:** With UConn defenders closing in, Edwards slid with the ball. That's when Wright, a graduate student, drilled the quarterback late and high. The impact of the hit sent Edwards down to the ground, and his helmet flying off his head.

Jordan Wright Ejected for Targeting in UConn vs. Maryland Game

**Paragraph 3:** Wright was ejected for targeting, ending his day before halftime with Maryland leading 17-0. The 15-yard penalty was negated after Maryland offensive tackle Andre Roye reportedly got involved after the play, but the Terrapins would end up taking a 23-0 lead before halftime.

**Paragraph 4:** Wright is in his first season with the Huskies after two seasons at Kansas State where he appeared in 13 games, registering eight total tackles and two pass deflections.

Jordan Wright Ejected for Targeting in UConn vs. Maryland Game

**Paragraph 5:** The hit didn't appear to rattle Edwards, who completed 20 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns through the fourth quarter. Maryland currently leads 43-7.

**Paragraph 6:** Targeting is a penalty in American football that is called when a defender takes aim at an opponent's head or neck area with force. It is considered a serious penalty and can result in ejection from the game.

Jordan Wright Ejected for Targeting in UConn vs. Maryland Game

**Paragraph 7:** The NCAA has been cracking down on targeting in recent years in an effort to reduce head injuries in football. The rule was first introduced in 2008 and has been modified several times since then.

**Paragraph 8:** The targeting rule has been controversial at times, with some critics arguing that it is too subjective and can lead to unfair ejections. However, the NCAA has maintained that the rule is necessary to protect player safety.

**Paragraph 9:** Wright's ejection is the latest example of the NCAA's commitment to enforcing the targeting rule. It is a reminder that players must be aware of the risks of targeting and must avoid making dangerous hits.

**Paragraph 10:** The targeting rule is a part of a larger effort by the NCAA to reduce head injuries in football. Other measures include concussion protocols, mandatory helmet safety standards, and a ban on spearing.

**Paragraph 11:** The NCAA's efforts to reduce head injuries are having a positive impact. The number of concussions in college football has declined in recent years. However, there is still more work to be done. The NCAA must continue to educate players and coaches about the dangers of head injuries and enforce the targeting rule strictly.