P.J. Fleck Smeared Player Blood on His Face
Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck marked himself with a player’s blood following a narrow victory over Washington.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you consider intense physical displays like blood-smearing to be acceptable celebratory rituals for a team?
Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck smeared blood from linebacker Maverick Baranowski onto his own face following a 27-24 win against Washington. The gesture occurred after the player sustained a mouth injury during the game's final play.
Why it matters
The coach performed the ritualistic act during a post-game embrace to signify his bond with the athlete. Fleck described the 24-year-old linebacker as his blood brother following the emotional conclusion to the match.
Minnesota defeated Washington 27-24 on September 26, 2026. Maverick Baranowski, 24, suffered a mouth injury from a cleat during the game, while P.J. Fleck, 45, has served as head coach since 2017.
The players
P.J. Fleck
He is the 45-year-old head football coach at the University of Minnesota who has led the team since 2017.
Maverick Baranowski
He is a 24-year-old linebacker for the Minnesota Golden Gophers who suffered a mouth injury during the game.
The details
Following the final play of the game, Fleck pulled the injured Baranowski into an embrace on the field. The coach reached out, wiped the blood from the player's face, and smeared it directly onto his own cheek in a display of team unity.
Timeline
September 26, 2026: The Minnesota Golden Gophers defeated the Washington Huskies 27-24.
Season Trajectory
This victory keeps Minnesota competitive within the conference standings as the season progresses. The dramatic finish and the coach's post-game display underscore the high-intensity atmosphere surrounding the team this year.
The 27-24 win secures a victory in the team's record and shifts the momentum of the Minnesota conference schedule. Fans and analysts will monitor the injury status of the starting linebacker to determine his availability for upcoming games.
The takeaway
The coach demonstrated a highly unconventional method of showing support for an injured player after a hard-fought game. Observers and fans alike were left reacting to a moment that extended far beyond standard coaching behaviors.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit Football.
Live Poll
Do you consider intense physical displays like blood-smearing to be acceptable celebratory rituals for a team?
