A big fight broke out in the moments after the Armed Forces Bowl on Thursday, spoiling Mississippi’s 28-26 victory against Tulsa in Fort Worth, Texas.
It is not clear what triggered the fight, which included kicks and punches and involved several members of both teams. What started with a few pushes close to the midfield during the post-game handshake spread to the touchline.
“It’s stupid. The root is stupid, no matter what. The root is stupid and the sequel is stupid,” said Mississippi State coach Mike Leach. “I would have it solidly in the idiot category. Now, where the idiot started, I’m not sure.”
Tulsa coach Phillip Montgomery also did not explain why the fight started.
“The only thing I will say is our program, our boys, we are a team that will defend and fight,” said Montgomery. “We talk about faith, family, football and the family will take care of the family. We are a team that has fought all year. Today we fight again and, from that point of view, our boys will continue to protect themselves and go from there. “
Leach said a group of Tulsa players circled the Mississippi state’s pre-game warm-ups and were “talking”, but he no longer speculated on what may have caused an escalation.
“I haven’t seen enough film or anything like that to totally get rid of that thing at all,” said Leach.
After the incident before the game, the game was hectic. The teams combined for 18 penalties.
Tulsa’s safety Kendarin Ray was seen being helped off the field as things calmed down.
“I think he probably has some version of a concussion and we will leave it at that,” said Montgomery.