Neither Syracuse senior linebacker Antwaune Ponds nor university athletic officials would comment today about a spitting incident involving Ponds and a Tulane coach.
The incident occurred right after Syracuse's 30-19 victory Saturday night at the Carrier Dome and was captured on videotape by a television news crew."We could not or would not make a statement until we have talked to all parties involved," coach Paul Pasqualoni said in a statement released by the athletic department.
The incident took place after the game ended with a 98-yard interception return by Syracuse's Tebucky Jones. On the play, Syracuse defensive back Rod Gadson was cut down from behind by Tulane's John Wilson. The play drew a penalty flag for clipping and resulted in a knee injury to Gadson.
While most Syracuse players rushed to the end zone to congratulate Jones, some rushed to attend Gadson, including Ponds. Pasqualoni also stormed the field to argue with game officials about the play.
A shouting match broke out between the two teams and soon threatening gestures followed before the sides were separated. Ponds is shown on the videotape spitting on Tulane strength and conditioning coach Mike Iosia.