Florida coach hit with major suspension due to role in pre-game altercation vs. LSU
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Florida running backs coach Jabbar Juluke has been suspended for 3 games due to his involvement in an altercation ahead of the Florida vs. LSU game on Saturday.
Florida and the SEC jointly announced the suspension on Tuesday evening. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey called Juluke’s conduct “unacceptable” in a press release announcing the punishment.
“Jabbar Juluke’s conduct during the pregame altercation reflects behavior that is unacceptable and not aligned with the standards of the Southeastern Conference,” Sankey said. “Coaches are expected to be leaders and to de-escalate tense situations, and that did not happen in this circumstance. This suspension is appropriate, and any future misconduct by Jabbar Juluke will result in more severe disciplinary action.”
This means Juluke will miss Florida’s upcoming contests against Miami, Texas and Texas A&M. At this time, it’s unclear what specific action from Juluke put him at risk for punishment. However, there were multiple pre-game scuffles between Florida and LSU players on Saturday.
Juluke released a statement apologizing for his actions.
“I, first, would like to apologize to both Florida and LSU universities, their teams, staff and fans,” he said in a press release. “I also sincerely apologize to the young athlete and his family. On Saturday, I reacted in a manner I’m not proud of. There’s no excuse for my behavior and I take full responsibility for my actions. In this game, emotional situations occur and bad reactions happen. I regret my reaction and commit to using this moment to strengthen my emotional intelligence.
“I know more is expected of us as coaches, and I commit to living up to that expectation. I believe growth is in ownership and learning from the good and the bad. I intend to use this situation as a teachable moment, not only for myself, but for those I impact. Again, I offer my sincerest apologies to both institutions and the staffs and families involved.”
Florida coach Billy Napier also commented on the matter.
“Coach Juluke’s actions prior to our game against LSU are not up to the standard of our program,” Napier said in a statement. “Coach Juluke is a man of character and has taken full responsibility for his actions. I believe Coach Juluke will learn from this experience and be better for it.”
Florida will face Miami on the road on Saturday.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
