Why was NC State LT Belton ejected? Exploring potential reasons behind his exit during matchup against Clemson

NC State left tackle Anthony Belton was ejected from Saturday's game against the Clemson Tigers. He was given an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after a play at the end of the second quarter. It was announced by the referee on the broadcast that Belton spit on a Clemson defender.

What was the play that led to Belton's ejection?

Clemson has been getting the better of NC State in this Week 4 matchup. The Tigers were able to score four touchdowns before NC State put points on the board. The score was 45-7 as the game went into halftime.

Frustrations were clearly mounting for NC State, and it showed with Belton's actions. On a play near the end of the first half, the Clemson Tigers sacked NC State quarterback CJ Bailey.

Players started to pile up on Bailey, and in the middle of the scrum, an official threw a flag. While Bailey was getting up, he spit on Clemson defensive tackle Tre Williams right in front of the referee. He was immediately ejected.

The replay showed that Belton may have spit on Williams in retaliation after his QB was getting roughed up at the end of the play. However, that excuse did not make a difference with the officials as he was also assessed an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

The NCAA rules state that any player who has been assessed two unsportsmanlike penalties in a game will be ejected. Officials also have the power to eject a player for one penalty if they deem the player went too far.

How will Anthony Belton being ejected affect the NC State offense?

As the starting left tackle, Anthony Belton plays a big role in his team's offense. He is in his third season as a starter for the Wolfpack and has performed well throughout his tenure. He is projected to be a Day 2 pick in the 2025 NFL draft.

His ejection will not likely affect today's game against Clemson. The game was already a blowout when he was ejected, and a comeback is unlikely with NC State trailing by several touchdowns in the third quarter.