Spikes Suspends Himself

Florida's senior linebacker Brandon Spikes will sit out Saturday's game against Vanderbilt so he won't be a distraction for the team as they try to win their ninth game of the season. Head coach Urban Meyer suspended Spikes for the first half after he was caught on national television trying to gouge the eyes of Georgia running back Washaun Ealey.

After Wednesday's practice Meyer introduced Brandon Spikes to the media who then announced his decision to sit out Saturday's game.

"Brandon came to see us last night, Coach Strong and myself," Meyer said after practice. "There are a lot of negative things out there weighing heavy on his heart. As a group, we decided in the best interest of the team to not play him on Saturday. It's a group decision. We're doing it out of respect for our team that's trying to win it's ninth game. I think it's the right thing for Brandon to do, and I look forward to getting back and finishing the season the right way."

"I really don't want to be a distraction to the team as they are preparing with all the negative things going on," Spikes said. "I feel like if I play it would be a big thing. I'm just going to stay out of the way and motivate my team. I'm pretty sure (Ryan) Stamper has my back, and my teammates really support this."