Boulware apologizes for incident with Lamar Jackson

Tony Crumpton by Assoc. Editor -

Clemson linebacker Ben Boulware was a superstar in his team's thrilling 42-36 win over Louisville in Death Valley on Saturday night.

Boulware had a career-high 18 tackles and a sack to spearhead Clemson's defensive efforts.

However, national media pundits and fans have been discussing the play where Ben Boulware wrapped up Lamar Jackson aggressively in the pile after a quarterback run.

Jackson emerged from the pile and was clearly frustrated with the play and complained to the referees.

"I was just trying to pull him down. If he thought it was a dirty play, I definitely apologize,” Boulware said via ESPN.com’s David Hale. "I was just trying to get him down."

Boulware went on to be very complimentary towards Jackson and his elite talent.

"He’s a freak athlete and he exposed us in some areas, Boulware said. "It’s hard to stop him. He’s probably the best player I’ve ever played against."

Jackson realized that the play was just part of football but was just looking for a call for his team.

"I wasn't frustrated," Jackson said to reporters after the game. "They were just turning my neck, and I didn't see any penalties. That's all. I wasn't used to that. That is why I was like no one is calling it? But it's cool, that's football," Jackson said.