Florida defensive lineman Jamari Lyons, Viera High School; Cocoa Beach, FL, was ejected during the Gators’ Week 13 matchup against Florida State on November 25, 2023, after spitting at Seminoles offensive lineman Keiondre Jones. The incident occurred late in the first half, with just over three minutes remaining, as tensions flared during the rivalry game. Lyons was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and immediately ejected, with replay footage clearly showing a spray of spit coming from his helmet toward Jones. The NCAA rule book mandates automatic ejection for spitting on an opponent, which was enforced in this case.
Lyons, a redshirt freshman, had been a key contributor on Florida’s defensive line, recording 20 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss through 10 games that season. His ejection came as the Gators held a 12-0 lead, but Florida State capitalized on the penalty, scoring a touchdown later in the drive to make it 12-7 at halftime. The Gators ultimately lost the game 58-13. Head coach Billy Napier publicly condemned the act, emphasizing the need for composure in rivalry games. This incident marked a notable moment in college football’s Rivalry Week and was later referenced in discussions about player conduct, especially following another ejection for spitting by a Florida player in 2025.
[UPDATE] August 12, 2024 :
Florida redshirt sophomore defensive lineman Jamari Lyons suffered a season-ending injury during UF’s first scrimmage of fall camp, Gators head coach Billy Napier confirmed Monday.
“Jamari Lyons broke his ankle, and he’ll be out for the season,” Napier said Monday. “Obviously our thoughts and prayers are with him.”
In other news…
[UPDATE] November 29, 2025 :
In a season considered to be less than stellar, Lyons posted zero sacks against FSU.
