The Big Ten Conference imposed a one-game suspension on Michigan State defensive lineman William Gholston for violating the Big Ten Sportslike Conduct Agreement during the Spartans’ game against Michigan on Oct. 15, 2011.
Unfortunately, the suspension comes for this week’s huge game versus the #4 Wisconsin Badgers. For a preview of that game go here.
Gholston got a little carried away and twisted Robinson’s face-mask last week, but that’s not what resulted in this suspension. He received personal fouls for twisting the helmet of Denard Robinson, and punching Wolverines lineman Taylor Lewan. It was pure retaliation, only the State guy got caught, and the UM instigator walks away scott free. The official didn’t see the first infraction that prompted the second.
Lewan had Gholston by the facemask, long after the play was over, and held on, putting his face on the ground. Only Lewan didn’t get caught.
The conference ruled that Gholston’s actions at the end of the third quarter of the Michigan contest violated Big Ten Conference Agreement 10.01.1.A.1 – “Striking or attempting to strike or otherwise physically abusing an official, opposing coach, spectator or athlete.” The conference office also publicly reprimanded Gholston for his actions.
Gholston is a huge loss, but it will remain a tough task for the Badgers offensive line to contain against a ferocious Michigan State defensive line. In the last two weeks, the Spartans have racked up 16 sacks and they’re not too bad against stopping the run either (nationally ranked 3rd in rushing defense at 67.0 ypg). Montee Ball and James White beware.
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