Jake Butt Calls for Change to Targeting Rule After Jaishawn Barham Suspension vs. New Mexico

"We need to change the suspension of the targeting rule," former Wolverines star and analyst Jake Butt wrote.

"Should only be suspended if there's clear malicious intent *or* if it's your second offense within the same game," he added.

"Ridiculous we have top players miss big games bc of a small difference in hat placement when running 20 mph."

Butt's assertion was similar to many Michigan fans who saw Barham run at Layne full speed attempting to pressure and hit him before he could complete a pass.

Was Barham Helmet Contact Intentional?

Barham's hit was replayed on several social media accounts, showing the controversial play and sparking debates.

"Jaishawn Barham got ejected for this hit," College Sports only wrote. "Just put flags on the QBs at this point."

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-MdnPBhu49w

Michigan to Appeal Suspension

Barham was suspended for the first half of next Saturday's game at Oklahoma, but the Wolverines plan to appeal the decision in hopes of granting one of their best defenders the ability to play in the game.

"We're going to talk about the ejection when we get to that point with the Big Ten and handling that because we don't agree and we'll handle it from there," Moore said after the New Mexico game.

Michigan Defense Faces Stiff Challenge at Sooners

The Wolverines' defense could use Barham against a supercharged Oklahoma team next week led by Washington State Cougars transfer QB John Mateer, who completed 30-of-37 passes for 392 yards and three touchdowns with an interception against the Illinois State Redbirds on Saturday.

Mateer is an accurate and athletic passer with a quick trigger who will also be tested against an athletic Wolverines defense loaded with pass rushers and versatile defensive backs.

Barham's suspension would deprive the Wolverines of one of their most athletic defenders, a player capable of setting the edge in the run game and rushing the passer who would certainly be missed if it is allowed to stand.