SOUTH CAROLINA SUSPENDS DYLAN STEWART OVER PUNCH ON ALABAMA PLAYER

South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer has suspended edge rusher Dylan Stewart indefinitely after Stewart punched an Alabama player during the two sides' Southeastern Conference match, according to reports. One outlet identified the Alabama player struck as a tight end. Stewart also argued with South Carolina's coaching staff on the sideline during the game, with reports describing him shouting at Beamer. Beamer was reported to be frustrated with Stewart for not putting in full effort on the field. The suspension follows South Carolina's defeat by Alabama, which left the Gamecocks with a 0-2 record in conference play.

Stewart has been established as one of South Carolina's leading pass-rushers this season, according to reports. Coverage of the match said he threw the punch at his Alabama opponent before turning his frustration towards his own coaching staff. Beamer's move to suspend him indefinitely was reported to reflect both the punch and Stewart's conduct towards coaches during the game, rather than either incident alone. No length has been set for the suspension, and South Carolina have not confirmed when Stewart might return to the team. The defeat by Alabama was South Carolina's second in conference play this season.

Beamer has not said what Stewart must do to be reinstated, according to reports. Some coverage suggested the suspension could carry implications for Stewart's standing as a prospect for professional football; no NFL team or league body has commented. South Carolina have not indicated whether any further disciplinary action will follow beyond the suspension Beamer announced. The Gamecocks remain in Southeastern Conference competition following the loss to Alabama, sitting at 0-2 in conference games. No date has been given for a decision on Stewart's status.