The Associated Press

Miami tight end Kellen Winslow apologized Sunday for ripping officials and comparing himself to a soldier after Tennessee's 10-6 victory over the Hurricanes.

Winslow lashed out at Southeastern Conference officials Saturday, saying they targeted him during the game.

Winslow, the son of NFL Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow Sr., caught seven passes for 88 yards but had a costly 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct in the fourth quarter.

He also nearly got flagged for taunting a shaken Corey Campbell after a hard-hitting block in the third quarter.

"It's war," Winslow said Saturday, his voice raised in the locker room. "They're out there to kill you, so I'm out there to kill them. We don't care about anybody but this U. They're going after my legs. I'm going to come right back at them. I'm a ... soldier."

In a statement released Sunday, Winslow apologized:

"After speaking with the press, I immediately regretted my comments and felt embarrassed for my family, my team, the University of Miami, our fans, alumni and myself. What I have learned from this experience is to take my triumphs and failures in stride. My outburst should in no shape or form be a reflection on this institution or the Miami football program.

"As for my reference to being a soldier in a war, I meant no disrespect to the men and women who have served, or are currently serving, in the armed forces. I cannot begin to imagine the magnitude of war or its consequences."