Oregon RB Blount apologizes to Boise State

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount called Boise State defensive end Byron Hout and coach Chris Petersen to apologize for the punch he threw following Thursday's game between the two teams.

Blount and Ducks coach Chip Kelly made the conciliatory phone call on Saturday. A spokesman for Oregon confirmed it took place, but would not discuss what was said.

Blount punched Hout in the jaw following the 16th-ranked Ducks' 19-8 loss to the 14th-ranked Broncos on Thursday night. Hout was knocked to his knees.

On Friday, Kelly suspended Blount for the rest of the season, effectively ending his career at Oregon. Blount will remain on scholarship and be allowed to practice with the team, but will not play in games or a bowl.

Saturday's apology was first reported by The Register-Guard newspaper in Eugene and ESPN. Blount had apologized after the game when he spoke with reporters.

"I just apologize to everyone that was watching this, ESPN, national TV. I just apologize to all of our fans, all of Boise's fans," he said. "It was just something that I shouldn't have done. I lost my head."

Hout yelled in Blount's face and tapped him on the shoulder pad before catching the right to the jaw. Petersen was trying to pull Hout away when he was hit.

Oregon president Richard Lariviere called Blount's actions reprehensible. Oregon athletic director Mike Bellotti, who stepped aside after 14 years as head coach of the Ducks this summer, called the punch "an egregious error."

Boise State's Petersen was not available for comment on Sunday. He was scheduled to speak on the WAC coaches conference call on Monday.

Kelly also was unavailable for comment on Sunday.

Blount was expected to practice with the Ducks on Monday, however, he will not allowed to speak to the media.