Michigan Linebacker Jaishawn Barham's targeting-related suspension remains intact for the first half of the game against Oklahoma.
The University of Michigan football team is set to take on the Oklahoma Sooners this Saturday at 7:30 PM ET, in a game that presents a significant opportunity for the Wolverines to showcase their progress since their 2023 national championship win. However, the team will face a challenge as one of their most dynamic defensive players, Jaishawn Barham, will be missing for the first half of the game due to a targeting penalty.
In the game against New Mexico, Barham, a key player in Michigan's defense, was ejected due to a targeting penalty. The call has been upheld by the NCAA, and Barham will miss the first half of the game against Oklahoma. The NCAA is currently reviewing the targeting call, but a decision has yet to be made.
Adam Rittenberg of ESPN reported on the targeting call and its consequences for Michigan's upcoming game against Oklahoma. Big Ten commissioner Tony Petitti and Big Ten VP of football operations A.J. Edds also disagreed with the call. Michigan's head coach, Sherrone Moore, has called for a change in the targeting rule, citing the physicality of the game and the importance of proper tackling techniques.
Despite the setback, the Wolverines won their first game of the 2025 season against New Mexico with a score of 34-17. The performance was led by quarterback Bryce Underwood, who passed for 251 yards. In his absence, another linebacker will play in Barham's place during the first half of the game against Oklahoma.
The game against Oklahoma will be a road game for Michigan, making it a tough challenge for the team. The game is expected to serve as a test for Michigan to demonstrate their improvement from the previous season. The Wolverines will have to play without Barham for at least the first half, but they will undoubtedly give their all to secure a victory against the Sooners.
