Texas LB Smith Out After Detrimental Conduct Dismissal
Texas dismissed LB Ty'Anthony Smith for conduct detrimental to the team. He was a key defensive piece and starting contender.
The update
University of Texas coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed the dismissal of linebacker Ty’Anthony Smith for conduct detrimental to the team. The announcement came on Friday evening, following a week where Smith had returned to practice after missing a scrimmage due to the flu. Smith was entering his junior season and had started the Citrus Bowl against Michigan, recording nine tackles and two interceptions in that game.
Why it matters
This move creates a significant hole in the Longhorns’ linebacker depth chart. Smith was competing with transfer linebackers Rasheem Biles (Pitt) and Justin Cryer (Florida State) for a starting role. His departure leaves Sarkisian with a new-look linebacker group following the departures of Anthony Hill Jr. and Trey Moore to the NFL, as well as Liona Lefau’s transfer to Colorado.
What to watch
It remains unclear what specific actions led to the dismissal. Sarkisian emphasized that he had to prioritize the team, stating Smith was a quality player. The Longhorns will need to quickly adjust their defensive scheme and find a replacement for Smith’s potential snaps, particularly as the season opener approaches.
Sources
- espn.com — Coach confirmation and player statistics (tackles, interceptions, Citrus Bowl performance).
- USA TODAY Sports — Coach confirmation, context on transfer competition, and team depth chart changes.
