Florida Gators Star Ejected for Spitting on Rival After Jalen Carter’s NFL Opener Incident

Florida Gators Star Ejected for Spitting Incident in Shocking Loss
By James Cohen, Sports Reporter | Updated: 02:41 BST, 7 September 2025

Florida Gators defensive lineman Brendan Bett sparked outrage after spitting on South Florida Bulls player Cole Skinner during their heated rivalry game Saturday night. The incident, which occurred in the fourth quarter with Florida leading 16-15, proved disastrous for the Gators, who ultimately fell 18-16 to their unranked opponents.

[Image: Bett confronting Skinner, mid-spit]

Bett was immediately ejected, resulting in a 15-yard penalty that shifted momentum to South Florida. The Bulls capitalized, with running back Isaac Alvin rushing 29 yards to set up a game-winning 20-yard field goal as time expired. Social media erupted, mocking the Gators’ collapse and Bett’s unsportsmanlike conduct.

The loss dropped Florida to 1-1 under head coach Billy Napier, whose four-year record now sits at a mediocre 20-20.

NFL Spitting Controversy Echoes Collegiate Drama
Bett’s ejection came just two days after a similar incident marred the NFL’s season opener. Philadelphia Eagles star Jalen Carter was tossed six seconds into the game for spitting at Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.

[Image: Carter and Prescott during the spat]

Prescott claimed he accidentally spat near Carter while clearing his mouthguard, but Carter retaliated by launching saliva directly at Prescott’s face. Officials ejected Carter, though the Eagles still clawed out a 24-20 win. Both players addressed the clash postgame:

“It was a mistake. It won’t happen again,” Carter admitted. Prescott downplayed the drama, calling it a “surprise” but acknowledged Carter’s ejection altered the Cowboys’ strategy.

[Image: Carter walking off the field after ejection]

Backlash and Fallout
Bett’s actions drew immediate criticism, with fans condemning the lack of discipline in Florida’s program. Analysts noted the costly penalty as a turning point in the game, questioning Napier’s ability to manage his roster. Meanwhile, NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported Carter could face fines or suspension despite Prescott’s denial of intent.

What’s Next?
Both incidents highlight the NFL and NCAA’s strict stance on unsportsmanlike conduct. For Bett, repercussions may extend beyond Saturday’s loss, with potential suspensions looming. As for Carter, the Eagles await the league’s decision, hoping to retain their defensive powerhouse for upcoming games.

[Image: Napier looking frustrated on the sidelines]

The Gators, meanwhile, face mounting pressure to rebound—both on the field and in rebuilding their reputation.

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