Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck smeared linebacker Maverick Baranowski’s blood across his face while celebrating the Golden Gophers’ victory over Washington at Husky Stadium.
Fleck ran towards Baranowski after the road win on Saturday and embraced him. He then wiped his hand across the linebacker’s bloody mouth, leaving a mark on his own cheek and a stain on his shirt.
The unusual celebration was captured on the live broadcast, with FOX Sports commentators Jack Kizer and Mark Helfrich appearing shocked by the sight. They noted that Fleck had quite literally added blood to the team’s “blood, sweat and tears” victory.
Baranowski later defended his coach’s actions, saying: “I love that guy more than anyone, and it’s just such an awesome opportunity to share that moment with him.”
He also described Fleck as “a crazy man” following the incident.
Fleck subsequently referred to Baranowski as his official “blood brother” after Minnesota’s win.
