Charlie Harbison 'proud' of Jermaine Whitehead after suspension

TAMPA -- After serving a four-game suspension and spending two games only on special teams, Jermaine Whitehead has responded to the liking of his coaches in his four games back at safety.

"Whitehead is doing a great job," safeties coach and interim defensive coordinator Charlie Harbison said. "I'm proud of him. He's part of the team. He has been part of the team and he's a leader. He's playing one snap at a time like I like it."

Whitehead, who has 28 tackles and four interceptions, was suspended prior to the trip to Kansas State after a verbal altercation with Harbison, a source confirmed.

"He had some things he had to do and he did them," Harbison said. "The bottom line is he has moved forward and he's a new guy. He's playing team ball and that's what we want. That's what coach Malzahn wants for all of our guys to play as one. He's doing that. I'm happy with him and I'm glad he's back."

Whitehead, a senior, did not confirm or deny the altercation while addressing his suspension following the Samford game.

Despite the incident, the likes of which Harbison, 56, said he never before encountered in his over 20-year coaching career, Whitehead has the support of his coaches.

"I support him big-time," Harbison said.

Whitehead has 16 tackles in four games since returning to defense. He was still serving on kickoff returns in the Iron Bowl.