Iowa Wide Receiver Suspended One Game Following OWI Arrest
The Cedar Rapids Gazette reports that Iowa wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette was arrested early Sunday morning in Iowa City on suspicion of operating while intoxicated. The 21 year old wide receiver was pulled over at around 1:27 a.m. on Sunday for going 74 miles per hour in a 30 mile per hour zone near Riverside Drive and Myrtle Avenue.
Smith-Marsette was pulled over in his 2017 Chevy Camaro just hours after Iowa's disappointing loss to Northwestern. The Gazette reports that Iowa City Police officials say that Smith-Marsette had bloodshot, watery eyes, impaired speech, and smelled of alcohol. The officer also stated that Smith-Marsette admitted to drinking and failed preliminary breath test. His blood alcohol level was reported at .13 percent.
Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz stated on Sunday that Smith-Marsette will be suspended for Saturday's game against Michigan State. His status for future Iowa games will depend on him going through counseling and other protocols consistent with the University of Iowa Student Code of Conduct. Ferentz issued the following statement on the situation.
I spoke with Ihmir this morning and apologetic and disappointed in himself. As a coach and parent I understand the personal pain that comes from making these decision. The situations can be defining moments for all students. It is my responsibility to hold our players accountable and help them learn and succeed.
Smith-Marsette had no catches week one in a loss at Purdue, but led Iowa with seven catches for 84 yards against Northwestern.