K’Vaughan Pope’s Ohio State football career is over.
Ohio State coach Ryan Day announced Sunday that the senior linebacker has been dismissed from the team after his temper tantrum on the sidelines. According to Lettermen Row, Pope tried to enter the game in the second quarter but was waved off by linebacker Teradja Mitchell. Pope walked toward the locker room, but an Ohio State staffer brought him back to the sideline. Pope then threw his gloves into the stands and attempted to take off his jersey on the sideline.
“K’Vaughan will continue to have the use of programs that benefit our student-athletes, such as our Student-Athlete Support Services Office, and we will support him with his progress toward graduation,” Day stated in the news release. “He will remain on scholarship through the duration of this semester.”
Former Buckeyes running back Maurice Clarett called for him to get a second chance. Clarett tweeted his support of Pope and noted that young players often make mistakes.
“I’m rooting for this young guy. S-t happens. [Ryan Day] I hope you give him another chance. Being derailed when you’re young can alter your future. Young guys need support when they f-k up! Keep your head up @VonP04,” Clarett tweeted.
In a since-deleted tweet, Pope wrote “f— Ohio State” while the game was still happening. He also tweeted “good lucc to my teammates” and left that tweet on his feed.
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Pope has since issued an apology for his actions on social media.
“Last night I let my emotions get the best of me. For that I want to apologize to my teammates, coaches and Buckeye Nation,” he wrote. “I made a mistake and know that I need to be better and do better. I’m going to take this time to reflect and work on my mental well-being.”
