A&M's Franchione apologizes for late hit on McCoy

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) -Texas A&M coach Dennis Franchione apologized this week to Texas coach Mack Brown and quarterback Colt McCoy for a late hit by one of his players in the Aggies' 12-7 victory.

Franchione posted a note on his Web site Friday saying an apology from coaches and players, including freshman defensive lineman Kellen Heard, was faxed to Brown earlier this week. The head coaches also spoke on the phone.

"He was very gracious and understanding," Franchione said.

Heard was ejected for his hit on McCoy after the quarterback had just thrown his third interception late in the game. The blow knocked McCoy to the ground.

On the Longhorns' last possession, McCoy was knocked down again and had to be carted off the field after suffering a pinched nerve. There was no penalty on that play.

Franchione's note apologized for Heard's hit.

"We regret and apologize for the late hit on Colt by Kellen Heard," the note said. "We do not teach this type of play or condone it. After meeting with Kellen, I know he feels badly that this happened, and he expressed that he did not want to display malicious intent.

"We will handle this situation as a coaching staff with consequences for the action. Kellen is in complete agreement and said that he wants Colt to know that he certainly regrets it and he apologizes for the incident."

Franchione said on his Web site that any discipline of Heard would not be made public.

---

Coach Dennis Franchione's web site: www.coachfran.com