Memphis football running back Mario Anderson was ejected from Saturday's game against South Florida after he appeared to spit on USF defensive tackle Doug Blue-Eli.

Anderson was slow to get up after a carry in the second quarter in Orlando. After the play, Blue-Eli walked by Anderson and Anderson appeared to spit on him. Both players were assessed unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, but only Anderson was ejected.

It's a significant loss for Memphis. Anderson had already carried six times for 18 yards and also had four catches for 15 yards and a touchdown.

Memphis football running back options

The Tigers' running back room was already severely depleted. Sutton Smith suffered a knee injury in the first game and was ruled out for the season, while Greg Desrosiers suffered a clavicle injury against Florida State and has been out since that game on Sept. 14.

Anderson was Memphis' starter and had played a major role in the past few games. Brandon Thomas is the only other running back on the roster who's played consistently, but converted receiver Ja'Koby Banks could see time. True freshman Makari Bodiford is also a candidate for playing time.

The Tigers led 14-0 at the time of the ejection.

Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Mario Anderson ejected: Memphis RB appears to spit on USF player