Tensions Rise As Texas State Trooper Was Caught 'Harassing' North Carolina Players During College Football

In a stunning turn during the 15 November 2025 Texas A&M versus South Carolina college football showdown, a state trooper's aggressive bump into Gamecocks players Nyck Harbor and Oscar Adaway III has sparked widespread college football controversy.

The incident, captured on video, shows the Texas Department of Public Safety officer wedging between the athletes after Harbor's electrifying 80-yard touchdown, pointing and scolding them amid rising tensions.

As calls for accountability echo from ESPN analysts to team coaches, this state trooper incident underscores deeper issues of player safety and authority in high-stakes games.

The Tunnel Confrontation: Unpacking the Moment

Late in the second quarter of the fiercely contested match at Kyle Field, South Carolina wide receiver Nyck Harbor sprinted 80 yards for a touchdown that shifted momentum in favour of the Gamecocks. Clutching his hamstring in apparent pain, Harbor headed towards the tunnel, closely followed by running back Oscar Adaway III to offer support.

As the duo turned to rejoin their teammates on the field, the unnamed Texas Department of Public Safety trooper approached from the opposite direction. In a move described by witnesses as deliberate, the officer extended his arms, bumping into Adaway while forcing his way between the two players. He then pivoted sharply, pointing accusatorily at them and appearing to berate the young athletes for obstructing his path.

The confrontation, lasting mere seconds but broadcast live, left players and spectators stunned, highlighting vulnerabilities in tunnel access during intense college football moments.

Swift Actions from Authorities

Responding promptly to the viral footage, Texas A&M University authorities relieved the trooper of his game-day duties on the spot, ensuring he was escorted from the stadium. The Texas Department of Public Safety issued a statement acknowledging the event: 'The DPS Trooper involved was sent home from the game,' and confirmed that their Office of Inspector General would conduct a thorough investigation.

This decisive measure prevented further escalation during the remaining match, which Texas A&M ultimately won 31-30 after a record comeback from a 30-3 halftime deficit.

University officials emphasised their commitment to a safe environment for all participants, while the incident prompted reviews of security protocols at major venues. Such rapid intervention demonstrates evolving standards in addressing misconduct in real-time, prioritising athlete welfare over individual authority.

Voices of Outrage and Support

The college football community erupted in condemnation, with ESPN's Stephen A. Smith leading the charge in a passionate monologue. 'This is a no-brainer to me,' Smith said. 'Nyck Harbor for South Carolina catches a pass, scampers down the field for a damn long touchdown run, runs into the tunnel because he's holding his hamstring... You can see the officer at the stadium walking in between two players, bumps into both of them, and flexes his arms out, before turning around and telling them to get on out of here... It's clear as day.'

South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer expressed gratitude to Texas A&M for their handling: 'Appreciate them handling that the right way and sending him home,' underscoring inter-team solidarity. Fans and analysts alike decried the display as emblematic of power imbalances, with social media ablaze over potential racial undertones given the players' profiles.

This unified backlash not only amplifies calls for training reforms but also reinforces the sport's emphasis on respect and professionalism. As the DPS Office of Inspector General's probe unfolds, this episode stands as a pivotal moment for college football, urging comprehensive reforms in event security to safeguard players and maintain the integrity of the game.