The tears started coming before the clock hit double zeroes. The disappointment of 54-16 SEC Championship game loss to Alabama hit everyone in Orange and Blue but freshman Tyrie Cleveland was inconsolable.
Austin Appleby walked over to Cleveland as the freshman stood silently staring at the Alabama celebration. Appleby thanked Cleveland for everything he had done that year.
Cleveland, along with Appleby and tight end C’yontai Lewis had a hard time leaving the field. All three were emotional and that didn’t change 30 minutes after the game when reporters were allowed in the locker room.
Cleveland sat there, towel over his head fighting back tears.