LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Pac-12 has reprimanded Southern California quarterback Matt Barkley for referring to Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict as a dirty player.
Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott announced the reprimand on Tuesday, saying Barkley had violated the conference’s policy on sportsmanship. Barkley received no suspension or additional punishment.
USC coach Lane Kiffin says he agrees Barkley’s comment wasn’t appropriate.
Barkley, who played against Burfict during high school, made the comment to the Los Angeles Times last week before the Trojans’ 43-22 loss to the Sun Devils.
Barkley didn’t back down from his words Tuesday before the reprimand was announced, but added his thoughts came from “a place of respect” for Burfict’s abilities.
