Louisiana State University running back and Heisman Trophy favorite Leonard Fournette has come under fire from a number of sources for taking part in a scrap with a teammate outside Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, LA. Fournette, 6’1″ and 235 lbs gamely swung with gigantic offensive lineman Garrett Brumfield is 6’3″, 305 lbs.

TMZ Sports reports that the two men threw some heavy shots, and argues further that it appears they were trying to hurt each other.

However, LSU Associate Athletic Director of Communications Michael Bonnette said that the team had spoken with both players, and learned that it was simply two athletes enjoying a little slap boxing.

“A game where they basically have to touch the other person twice,” explained Bonnette. “What you don’t see is when the video cuts off, they hug it out. They’re not mad at each other. No one was injured.”

Fournette himself offered a qualified apology, via Twitter.

“I would like to apologize to everyone, but we were not fighting, just slap boxing,” wrote Fournette. “But again I would like to apologize to everyone again.”

The real question of course is what is there to apologize for? Are men no longer allowed to take a mutual swing at each other, friendly or otherwise?

The exchange between the teammates appears to be enthusiastic and good natured. There was for example none of the grabbing characteristic of a real fight, or the loss of control, or closed fists, and the defensive techniques appear designed to ward off a touch. Still, even if they were having an actual scrap, is that something that now demands an apology to the world?

If so, something is wrong with the world, not the two gentlemen throwing mutually agreed to punches.

The Heisman Tropy, first given in 1935, is awarded for ‘the outstanding college football player whose performance best exhibits the pursuit of excellence with integrity. Winners epitomize great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work.” There is nothing in there about “and will never slap box with a buddy.”