Florida defensive lineman Brendan Bett was ejected from the Gators’ game against South Florida on Saturday, September 6, 2025, after spitting into the facemask of USF offensive lineman Cole Skinner during the Bulls’ game-winning drive.
The ejection, which came with 2 left in the game, resulted in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that significantly impacted the Gators’ defensive effort, contributing to South Florida’s 18-16 upset victory.
This incident marks the latest in a series of spitting-related ejections for the Florida Gators, following a similar incident involving defensive lineman Jamari Lyons in November 2023.
Brendan Bett Ejection (September 6, 2025): Bett was ejected late in the fourth quarter during the Gators’ home game against South Florida.
The penalty occurred on the Bulls’ game-winning drive, immediately after a pass interference call, and was a critical moment in the 18-16 loss. The act of spitting is an automatic ejection under NCAA rules.
Florida coach Billy Napier acknowledged the incident was unacceptable and stated he had not yet spoken with Bett.
Jamari Lyons Ejection (November 26, 2023): This was the previous instance of a Florida Gator being ejected for spitting, occurring during the rivalry game against Florida State.
Lyons was ejected in the first half for spitting at FSU offensive lineman Keiondre Jones after a scuffle.
The penalty helped set up a touchdown for Florida State. Head coach Billy Napier publicly condemned the action, stating such behavior was “unacceptable” and emphasizing the need for players to maintain composure.
Jamari Lyrons spitting incident November 2023
Florida defensive lineman Jamari Lyons was ejected from a college football game against Florida State on November 25, 2023, for spitting on opposing player Keiondre Jones during a skirmish late in the first half.
The incident occurred after a play, with replay footage clearly showing Lyons spit toward Jones as officials approached.
Lyons was assessed a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty and ejected from the game, a move that was in accordance with NCAA rules which mandate ejection for spitting on an opponent.
The Florida State offense capitalized on the penalty, scoring a touchdown to make the score 12-7 at halftime.
This incident was a significant moment in the game, which Florida State ultimately won 58-13.
Incident Details: The altercation began after a 16-yard run by Florida State’s Trey Benson, leading to a brief exchange between Lyons and Jones.
The spitting occurred as officials were attempting to break up the confrontation.
Consequences: Lyons was immediately ejected and assessed a 15-yard penalty.
The penalty helped set up a Florida State touchdown, contributing to their eventual victory.
Player Background: At the time of the incident, Lyons was a redshirt freshman and a key part of Florida’s defensive line rotation, having recorded 20 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss in the 2023 season.
He was serving as a backup to nose tackle Cam Jackson.
Coaching Reaction: Florida head coach Billy Napier addressed the incident at halftime, stating that such actions were “unacceptable” and emphasizing the need for players to maintain composure and play with class, especially in a rivalry game.
