The Ohio State football team won 59-7 yesterday. It was the first time all season that the Buckeyes looked good on both sides of the ball. But as I wrote earlier today, that’s not what everyone was talking about. They were talking about K’Vaughan Pope.
Pope’s outburst and proceeding tweet was a major topic of discussion in Ryan Day’s post-game press conference, as well as on social media. It creates a major distraction for a program that is trying to get itself right before Big Ten play starts next week.
Pope has now apologized for his behavior on the sidelines and his tweet. He did so on Twitter.
Last night I let my emotions get the best of me. For that I want to apologize to my teammates, coaches and Buckeye Nation. I made a mistake and know that I need to be better and do better. I’m going to take this time to reflect and work on my mental well-being.
— K’Vaughan Pope (@VonP04) September 26, 2021
This tweet would indicate that Pope was trying to keep himself on this team. It also could indicate that he realizes the tweet could have a negative effect on any transfer efforts he could have later this season. Either way, it’s a step in the right direction for his future.
As far as that future is concerned, Day has dismissed him from the team. Day has to make it a point that something like this is completely unacceptable. I understand that people make mistakes, but this is something that takes a direct shot at the coaching staff.
I’m not surprised that Pope apologized. I would have been very surprised though if Pope played another down for the Ohio State football team. He will remain on scholarship for the rest of the year, but his days playing for the Buckeyes are over.
It’s quite a shame for a senior that seemed so committed to this program.