In the biggest game of the season, the No. 3 Oregon Ducks will be without one of their better players for most of the contest.
Traeshon Holden was ejected in the second quarter for spitting at an Ohio State player.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel's pass into the end zone fell incomplete, and Holden and Buckeyes cornerback Davison Igbinosun appeared to be exchanging words.
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Trayshon Holden of the Oregon Ducks runs the ball after the catch during the second quarter against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Autzen Stadium on Oct. 12, 2024 in Eugene, Oregon. (Ali Gradisher/Getty Images)
However, things got out of hand when Holden spat on Igbinosan.
An unsportsmanlike flag was thrown and Holden was immediately ejected from the game.
Oregon fans booed the decision.
“This is the biggest game of the year. Why would you do that?” said Todd Blackledge, who was calling the game, confused.
Mr Blackledge accepted that the altercation was understandable, but Mr Holden's conduct was indefensible.
Trayshon Holden of the Oregon Ducks leaves the field during the first half of a game against the UCLA Bruins at the Rose Bowl on September 28, 2024 in Pasadena, California. (Rick Tapia/Getty Images)
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In his second season with the Ducks, Holden took things to the next level. He's on pace for career-highs in nearly every statistic. He had 19 catches for 274 yards and three touchdowns in the first five games.
Holden began his collegiate career at the University of Alabama, where he played three seasons. However, the coronavirus season granted him an extra year of eligibility and he transferred to Oregon State ahead of the 2023 season.
Last year, he teamed up with Bo Nix and had 37 receptions, 452 yards and six touchdowns, all career highs.
Traeshon Holden (1) of the Oregon Ducks runs for a touchdown in the second half at Autzen Stadium on September 7, 2024 in Eugene, Oregon. (Tom Hawk/Getty Images)
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The Ducks led 15-14 immediately after the penalty, but the offense definitely took a hit.
Saturday's winner may not move into first place after Texas State's dominant victory over No. 18 Oklahoma State in the Red River Rivalry, but this is a prelude to the national championship. There is a possibility that it will happen.
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