Team Infidel
Forum Spin Doctor
Associated Press
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Florida defensive tackle Marcus Thomas was kicked off the team Saturday during the Gators' game with Vanderbilt.
Thomas was listed on the roster as being dressed for the game, but the school released a statement early in the fourth quarter that said Thomas had been dismissed. He ranked seventh in tackles for the Gators this season with 26 and had four sacks.
"Marcus did not meet his responsibilities and obligations to remain on the team," coach Urban Meyer said in the statement.
After Florida beat Vanderbilt 25-19, Meyer was asked about Thomas. He repeatedly referred reporters to the statement.
Defensive coordinator Charlie Strong said the Gators were made aware of the decision and why the move was made Friday.
"You hate to lose any player. What happened is you just feel bad because you look at the talent he has, not just the talent, you look at the relationship he had with the players," Strong said. "And they do understand."
Thomas had been suspended indefinitely in September for a second violation of the school's substance-abuse policy, but was reinstated in October and played against LSU, Auburn and Georgia.