Next to a second quarter targeting callVanderbilt coach Derek Mason told Florida coach Dan Mullen how he felt.

Both coaches had a lively exchange – the referees retained – after Florida linebacker James Houston got the flag for targeting defensive lineman Dare Odeyingbo, who was considered a defenseless player, during a punt return.

Mullen and defensive coordinator Todd Grantham were seen screaming, and Mullen had to be restrained by an official after he became furious. Mason finally got away and grabbed Dayo Odeyingbo, who was coming to see his older brother.

As Vanderbilt's bench began to clear, Mason's decision to return to his squad and retain his players probably prevented a major fight.

Officials said the replay confirmed a targeting penalty on Houston, resulting in his deportation. They also reported each team for unsportsmanlike conduct. That counted as a second for linebacker Vosean Joseph, Florida's biggest striker, who ejected him. Two Florida staffers escorted an emotional Joseph to the locker room.

Dare Odeyingbo returned to the game before the end of the first half.

Mullen told a reporter in the locker room that he was sure that South East Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey and Steve Shaw, the league's refereeing officer, would handle the situation. Sankey was at Saturday's game.

contributing: Associated press.