CJ Baskerville Calls Out Arkansas Player for Dirty Play During Liberty Bowl
The Liberty Bowl showdown between Texas Tech and Arkansas on Friday night ended with Arkansas securing a 39-26 victory, but the game was not without controversy. Texas Tech safety CJ Baskerville accused Arkansas offensive lineman Fernando Carmona of intentionally stepping on his ankle during the fourth quarter, an act he described as a “dirty” play.
The Incident
The incident occurred with 2:05 left in the game during a Braylen Russell run. Baskerville, who had gone down in the pile while attempting a tackle, alleged that Carmona deliberately stepped on his ankle and pressed down. Adding fuel to the fire, Baskerville claimed Carmona directed derogatory remarks at him, reportedly saying,
There’s no denying that Arkansas played a great game last night, I am not taking that away from them. But #55 Fernando Carmona blatantly stepping on my ankle and pressing down on it on purpose is straight up dirty. Proceeds to say “got your b**** a***.” Do better @RazorbackFB pic.twitter.com/QccDSfiiQ4
— CJ (HOUNDS) BASKERVILLE (@c9baskerville) December 28, 2024
Baskerville took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday to share two angles of the incident. While commending Arkansas for their strong performance, he did not hold back in criticizing Carmona’s behavior.
“There’s no denying that Arkansas played a great game last night; I am not taking that away from them,” Baskerville wrote. “But #55 Fernando Carmona blatantly stepping on my ankle and pressing down on it on purpose is straight-up dirty. Proceeds to say ‘got your b**** a***.’ Do better @RazorbackFB.”
Baskerville’s Performance
Despite the controversy, Baskerville delivered an impressive performance, leading Texas Tech’s defense with 10 tackles, including seven solo stops, and a pass breakup. The game capped a stellar season for Baskerville, who finished the year with 78 tackles, three tackles for loss, and a career-high four interceptions, solidifying his role as a key defensive anchor for the Red Raiders.
Game Highlights
The Liberty Bowl itself was an offensive showcase, with both teams combining for over 1,000 total yards. Arkansas amassed 559 yards, outpacing Texas Tech’s 497 yards, and secured their first bowl victory under head coach Sam Pittman in two years.
- Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green had a standout performance, throwing for 341 yards and two touchdowns while also contributing 81 rushing yards and a touchdown.
- On the Red Raiders’ side, quarterback Will Hammond completed 20 of 34 passes for 280 yards and a touchdown, though he also threw two interceptions. Running back J’Koby Williams led Texas Tech’s ground game with 123 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Arkansas’ Season Redemption
The victory marked the culmination of a 7-6 season for Arkansas, a significant improvement after a challenging start that placed Pittman on many hot-seat lists. The bowl win not only boosted team morale but also ensured Pittman another season at the helm in Fayetteville.
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Takeaway
While Arkansas celebrated their hard-fought victory, the alleged incident involving Fernando Carmona left a sour note for CJ Baskerville and Texas Tech fans. As the dust settles, the focus will likely shift to both teams’ preparations for the 2025 season.
This incident underscores the intensity and emotional stakes of bowl games, where every play and interaction is magnified under the spotlight. As the story develops, it will be interesting to see how Arkansas and Carmona respond to the allegations.
