Georgia star running back Todd Gurley may not suit up for the Bulldogs again this season.
According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “a source familiar with the investigation” into Gurley allegedly being paid to sign memorabilia said that Gurley’s case is “significant” and there is “a possibility that Gurley may not be cleared to return to the field this season.”
From the AJC:
Unlike the case involving Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M, the source says, there is evidence that wasn’t available in the Manziel case. Manziel got a half-game punishment last season to start the year. Other sources familiar with the investigation say a determination of punishment should be made by early next week.
Georgia indefinitely suspended Gurley, a junior with 773 rushing yards and eight touchdowns so far this season, for what it said was an ongoing investigation to “alleged violations of NCAA rules.” Multiple outlets reported that Gurley was paid to autograph memorabilia and SB Nation published a September 30 email from an autograph dealer who claimed he had video and photos of Gurley “doing a private autograph signing.”
Additionally, Deadspin had similar email communication with a person believed to be the same autograph dealer. The tipster told Deadspin that Gurley had “kind of screwed (him).”
“I spent a few grand on the signing and Gurley has since kind of screwed me by doing this with about 30 other guys. The stuff has lost a ton of its value. Just wanna recoup some of my money.”
If it is determined that Gurley committed an NCAA violation, penalties would be determined based upon the total compensation he received for his likeness. Sports Illustrated reported Thursday that Gurley was paid $400 for signing 80 items. By NCAA bylines, that ($400-$700 compensation) would result in a suspension of “20 percent” of his team’s seven remaining games.
Fox Sports reported Thursday that Gurley is expected to miss 2-3 games.
Gurley, a leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy, did not travel with Georgia for its Saturday afternoon game at Missouri. After news of the investigation and suspension broke, students assembled a "Free Gurley" vigil in front of Sanford Stadium.
College Football. Nothing like it. RT @jt_walden: Vigil happening in front of Sanford Stadium. #FreeGurley http://ift.tt/1s397gW
— Radi Nabulsi (@RadiNabulsi) October 10, 2014 Freshman Nick Chubb is expected to start in place of Gurley for the No. 13 Bulldogs.
For more Georgia news, visit UGASports.com.
- - - - - - -
Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!
From Dr. Saturday - NCAAF - Yahoo Sports - Report: Georgia RB Todd Gurley 'may not be cleared to return' this season
No comments:
Post a Comment