The college game between Texas A&M and South Carolina witnessed a very unexpected national controversy this weekend after a Texas State trooper was seen in a viral video appearing to shove and confront the South Carolina players in the tunnel.
The unbelievable images caught the attention of every football fan, who was shocked about of how the trooper acted. One of those concerned was Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James, who publicly called for the officer’s suspension.
A clear message on social media
The video widely circulated across social media, showing the trooper making contact with Gamecocks players Nyck Harbor and Oscar Adaway III as they entered the tunnel following Harbor’s 80-yard touchdown.
After the bump, the officer turns, points directly at the players, and appears to scold them. Many fans viewed the interaction as an intentional confrontation and an unnecessary situation, given the fact that the players were simply heading toward the locker room.
“That A&M cop needs to be suspended!” James wrote on X, accusing the officer of acting clearly on purpose. “That was premeditated and corny… He went out of his way to start something. Do better man.“
Even ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith called the trooper’s actions “intentional and inappropriate.“
Trooper removed from duty as investigation begins
The Texas Department of Public Safety heavily responded as backlash intensified. The agency confirmed that the trooper had been removed from his duties, while waiting for a formal review by the Office of Inspector General.
Officials stated they were “aware of the incident,” but declined further comment as the investigation remains ongoing.
Though only a few seconds long, the video has ignited broader conversations about how the authority and player safety are not put together in this situation. How is this possible? Fans demand consequences and transparency about how law enforcement interacts with athletes – particularly young Black players- in these high-intensity environments.
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