Late in the first quarter of Tennessee’s season opener against Appalachian State, OLB Jalen Reeves-Maybin was covering a Volunteers’ punt when the Mountaineers return man ducked low to make a fair catch.

Though the play was always going to be an interference penalty for not allowing the returner enough room to complete the fair catch, Reeves-Maybin’s helmet came in contact with his opponent’s helmet, leading to a targeting ejection.

The play was reviewed and the decision was upheld, meaning the Tennessee captain was ejected from the game.

Reeves-Maybin, a senior, is a big part of Tennessee’s defense and will be missed against a tough Appalachian State team.