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The official catches the helmet in the face during the scrimmage in the Military Bowl

Posted on by Nargang
The official catches the helmet in the face during the scrimmage in the Military Bowl

The showdown between the Military Bowl NC State and East Carolina was as intense as college football rivalries get, but it ended on an unfortunate note. With just minutes left in the game, tensions spilled over into a chaotic brawl that left one official, Rod Tucker, bloodied on the pitch.

The game itself was a nail biter. NC State pulled ahead with a late 21-20 lead, only for ECU to answer with an electrifying 80-yard touchdown run. That dramatic play, followed by a last-minute interception, sealed the victory for the Pirates. However, as ECU lined up to kneel in front of the clock, emotions between the teams boiled over.

The scuffle broke out when players from both teams came face-to-face, and in the chaos, Tucker, who was trying to separate the players, suffered a significant injury. One player’s helmet was driven into another, and Tucker ended up with a deep cut on his cheek. The scene was intense, with officials scrambling to restore order.

Eight players were ejected as a result of the brawl, a disappointing end to what should have been a celebration of the bowl season. A bloodied but composed Tucker finished the remaining 0:38 and appeared to be fine.

While seeing some of the craziness and passion for bowl games this season has been refreshing, there is no excuse for a fight of any kind. Players who were ejected — at least those who still have eligibility remaining — will likely face consequences for next season.

At this time, there have been no further updates on the status of Tucker or the three NC State and five East Carolina players who have been expelled.

What can be the most interesting: NC. State and East Carolina are scheduled to begin their 2025 seasons against each other as the Wolfpack host the Pirates in Raleigh on August 31st.

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