Clemson freshman linebacker Sammy Brown was ejected in the second quarter of Saturday’s game against Pitt after a targeting call on Panthers quarterback Nate Yarnell. The play occurred on third-and-17 when Brown hit Yarnell in the head after the throw, leading to a roughing penalty and targeting ruling that was upheld on review.

Brown’s ejection gave Pitt an automatic first down, but Clemson’s defense regrouped and forced a punt on the drive. With the ejection happening in the first half, Brown will miss the rest of the game but is eligible to return for Clemson’s matchup against The Citadel next week.

Brown’s aggressive play has been a key factor in Clemson’s defensive success this season. While his absence left the Tigers thin at linebacker, the unit has shown resilience, with Brown emerging as a standout contributor. His physicality and energy continue to provide a spark for Clemson, which makes this loss hurt a bit. Especially considering how depleted the Tigers' are at linebacker.

The worst part is that it just looked like a perfect hit. However, by definition, in the modern game, it is targeting.

The Tigers' defense has looked good since, but it's never helpful losing a key player.

This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson star freshman linebacker Sammy Brown ejected from Pitt game for targeting