On Monday night, reports surfaced that the University of South Florida was investigating a claim that head football coach Jim Leavitt had slapped a player in the face during halftime of the Bulls' game vs. Louisville on Nov. 21.
Fanhouse.com reported that Phil Miller, the father of sophomore running back Joel Miller, confirmed the incident, as did five members of the Bulls' program and Miller's high school coach.
Today, WTSP-TV in Tampa reports that Leavitt, who is currently on a recruiting trip, has denied the allegations.
"It is untrue," Leavitt told WTSP's Dave Wirth by phone. "I'm very disappointed that this has been written. It is so untrue."
South Florida released a statement saying they were aware of the situation and are investigating the claims.
"The University of South Florida is aware of the story and will review the matter promptly. We're committed to ensuring due process for everyone involved. To ensure fairness, the university doesn't comment during a review."
WTSP also notes that during the Nov. 21 game vs. Louisville, Leavitt emerged from halftime with a cut on his nose, which he said came from a fall in the locker room. It was later learned that Leavitt had actually head-butted freshman linebacker LaDre Watkins -- who was wearing his helmet at the time -- as a motivational tool.
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