COLUMBIA, S.C., Sept. 17 (UPI) -- South Carolina defensive back D.J. Swearinger has been suspended by the Southeastern Conference for one game, the conference's commissioner said.
Swearinger is being punished for an illegal hit during the Gamecocks' 49-6 win over Alabama-Birmingham this past Saturday. He was called for a personal foul during the game for hitting UAB's Patrick Hearn on the helmet while breaking up a pass.
Swearinger, a senior, will miss the Gamecocks' game against Missouri this coming Saturday.
"These rules are for the protection of the health and safety of our players on both sides of the ball," SEC Commissioner Mike Slive said. "It is imperative that our student-athletes understand the importance of this rule. Our motivation in making these decisions is to protect our student-athletes."
Swearinger has 10 tackles and an interception in three games this season.
