Tillery apologizes for acting 'out of character' in incidents vs. USC

Notre Dame's Jerry Tillery has issued an apology after two disturbing incidents involving USC players from Saturday's game.

The standout defensive tackle was seen kicking the head of Trojans running back Aca'Cedric Ware while he was down injured following a hard tackle. Just a couple plays later he was also seen to be stepping on the foot of offensive lineman Zach Banner as the Trojan laid on the ground.

Related: Notre Dame's Tillery kicks opponent, gets earful from Kelly

"I want to take responsibility for my actions on Saturday," Tillery wrote on Twitter Monday.

"I am truly sorry. I acted in a way that was out of character for me. What I displayed in those two instances were completely unbecoming and not indicative of the kind of player or person I am. My actions in those two instances do not represent what my family or Notre Dame has molded me to be. I want to especially apologize to Aca'Cedric, Zach, their families and anyone else affected by what I did. I assure you I will learn and grow from this moment and be a better man because of it."

Brian Kelly has said that Tillery will be held responsible for his actions, but when that happens is yet to be seen. Notre Dame's season is over and the program will not be playing in a bowl game due to a 4-8 finish. Tillery is just a sophomore, so he will be back with the Fighting Irish in 2017.