Everything Bret Bielema, Shane Beamer said about Citrus Bowl blowup: What started it, what gesture meant

Illinois’ 21-17 win over South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl — a historic marker for the Fighting Illini, who for the first time since 2001 eclipsed 10 wins in season — was overshadowed by a bizarre feud between two of college football’s most colorful head coaches. 

Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer had to be held back by team staff members after Illinois coach Bret Bielema taunted the Gamecocks during the third quarter when he walked across the field to check on injured Illini defensive back Jaheim Clarke. Bielema then held up his arms in an apparent signaling of substitution, which caused Beamer to run onto the field incensed. Beamer had to be held back and could be seen telling the game’s sideline reporter, “you saw what he did.” 

Most everybody watching at home was confused for a few reasons: What sparked Bielema’s angst, what his gesture really meant, and why in the world it elicited such fury from Beamer? 

Below are snippets of what the coaches told reporters postgame about the incident.

South Carolina’s Shane Beamer

On what may have sparked the incident:

“I think his issue was when we threw the throw-back kickoff return, our kickoff returner did this, which most teams that’s a signal that it’s a touchback and we’re not going to return the kick. You’re allowed to do that as long as you don’t do a waving motion. It’s no different than on a punt. If the punt returner comes pointing to the ball that’s bouncing on the ground, he’s allowed to return it. If you’re doing this, you’re not allowed to return it. There was no waving of the arms, and I cleared it with the Big 12 officials before the game. I told them we were going to do it, making sure they were good with it, and they said, ‘Yeah, just as long as he doesn’t wave the arms.’ 

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Author : Shehan Jeyarajah

Publish date : 2025-01-01 03:06:00

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