When Washington State opens their 2010 season, they’ll do so without a player who started nearly half their games in 2009.
According to the Seattle Times, defensive lineman Dan Spitz has been ruled ineligible for the first nine games of the season for violating the NCAA’s banned substance policy.
“Student-athletes are encouraged to consult with our athletic medicine, nutrition and strength and conditioning staffs with questions regarding any products,” head coach Paul Wulff said in a statement.
While he will be allowed to practice with the team during the suspension, he won’t be eligible to take the field until Nov. 6 when the Cougars host Cal.
Last season, the redshirt sophomore played in nine games, starting five of those contests.