Dylan Stewart Punches Alabama Player, Avoids Ejection

South Carolina star edge rusher Dylan Stewart punched Alabama tight end Josh Ford in the helmet during a late fourth-quarter touchdown drive that extended Alabama's lead to 42-18. Although Stewart was not ejected from the game, he received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for his action against Ford in the end zone.

ESPN rules analyst Jerry McGinn expressed shock at the decision and stated on broadcast that Stewart should have been removed immediately without question. The former five-star recruit entered the contest with 57 tackles and 11 sacks but is currently limited due to a lingering back injury from last season, which has caused him to miss significant time.

Stewart's frustration was evident after South Carolina conceded the touchdown; he appeared visibly angry while walking on the sideline. Earlier in the game, head coach Shane Beamer yelled at Stewart for moving slowly off the field following a roughing-the-passer penalty call that resulted in a 42-yard Alabama touchdown pass.

ESPN reporter Taylor McGregor noted significant yelling among Gamecocks players during the second quarter when South Carolina trailed by 18 points. This marks the first road game and first ranked opponent for South Carolina this season, following their loss to Mississippi State at home.