Arguably, one of the most anticipated matchups in Week 2 involves the No. 14 Michigan Wolverines visiting No. 18 Oklahoma, but the Wolverines will have to contend without one of their star defenders in the first half due to a targeting call that was upheld by the Big Ten office despite an appeal.

Linebacker Jaishawn Barham will indeed be sidelined for the first half against the Sooners after his targeting ejection from the latter part of Michigan’s Week 1 victory over the New Mexico Lobos was upheld unexpectedly. Barham tackled New Mexico quarterback Jack Layne on a sack but did not lead with his helmet, keeping his head up during the tackle.

“After initial review of a possible fumble, Michigan’s Jaishawn Barham is ejected for targeting on the play,” — FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) August 31, 2025

Although the ejection did not impact the final score, with the Wolverines winning 34-17, they had hoped to get the suspension lifted after a review. This did not occur, and Michigan’s head coach Sherrone Moore expressed disappointment regarding the decision, emphasizing the need for changes to the targeting rule. He mentioned that both Commissioner Tony Petitti and Vice President A.J. Edds also disagreed with the ruling.

“So, it was upheld. We don’t agree with it. [Commissioner] Tony [Petitti] doesn’t agree with it, [Big Ten VP] A.J. [Edds] doesn’t agree with it. It’s a rule we have to change,” said Moore.

The targeting rule has sparked numerous discussions since its implementation, and this incident marks a significant controversy at the start of the 2025 season.