NC State announced earlier today that it has suspended seven players for its upcoming game against Louisville after an incident involving a BB gun occurred at an off-campus house, according to ESPN.
Jerod Fernandez, who leads the team in tackles, and starting safety Josh Jones have been suspended. Additionally, receiver Johnathan Alston, defensive tackle Justin Jones, defensive end Pharoah McKever, receiver Jumichael Ramos and cornerback Mike Stevens have also been suspended.
The team placed redshirt freshmen Tyler Jones, Kalen McCain, Deyshawn Middlebrooks, Terrone Prescod and Maurice Trowell on team probation for their involvement.
All players participated in a BB gun game last week.
True freshman Airius Moore is expected to start at middle linebacker Saturday in place of Fernandez. Fernandez has recorded 58 tackles and leads the team with two interceptions so far this season. Josh Jones ranks fourth on the team with 38 tackles.
"These are good young men who made a mistake in not recognizing that this activity could have resulted in someone being injured," coach Dave Doeren said in a statement. "We have discussed this with them and they understand that they are being held responsible for their actions. The information was referred to the university's office of student conduct as well. Our players admitted their mistake and we will help them learn from it."
The Wolfpack is last in the Atlantic division of the ACC. They are 4-3 overall with all three losses coming against conference opponents.
