E. Gordon Gee doesn’t know football, but apparently does know when a member of his football program has run afoul of NCAA bylaws.
Speaking to the Associated Press before a Tuesday evening press conference that will address allegations made against head coach Jim Tressel, the Ohio State president admitted that the school had self-reported what is apparently a new violation to the NCAA.
“We have reported a violation, a perceived violation, that we were having discussions with them (the NCAA) about the best way to handle it,” Gee told the AP. “We reported that immediately when we found it.”
Gee did not reveal who committed the violation, but the Columbus Dispatch is reporting that Tressel — who has not resigned and will not be dismissed as of now — “faces a possible sanction and/or fine for committing an NCAA rules violation.” Gee and Tressel, along with athletic director Gene Smith, will take part in the press conference scheduled for 7 p.m. ET tonight.
Yahoo! Sports reported Monday night that Tressel was made aware in April 2010 of a handful of his players receiving impermissible benefits. At a Dec. 23 press conference to announce that five players had been suspended for five games for selling/bartering memorabilia to the owner of a local tattoo parlor, Smith stated that the athletic department did not become aware that players may have received impermissible benefits until Dec. 7.
What comes around, is all around.
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFIKEYvM0oE?rel=0&w=480&h=390
I have a sincere question for the Buckeye faithful. How are the 5 players that were a part of “tattoo-gate” perceived by the fan base?
Aside from hurting the team for getting suspended, from what I understand they sold gold pants from the UM game. Aren’t the gold pants one of the most sacred traditions at OSU? These guys not only hurt the team, but they took a big dump on history.
Gee should not be talking. He is the president. He admitted he knew nothing about football. Sadly, after all these years in the collegiate level, he has not learned anything either. He should let Tressel speak on it, if anyone should. Tressel is a good man and we know he can speak for himself and for his staff.
darth,
They will be loved when possible and thrown under the bus when necessary.
Gee is trying to shield Tressel. Let the coach speak about the football issues since Gee admits he know nothing about football. Tressel should skip the first five games next season just like the 5 players.
And to top it off forfeit their Sugar Bowl for letting the five tattooed players participate.
Gordon Gee is a proven moron when it comes to anything football / PR related. I’m waiting to hear from Tressel before passing judgement.
@darthgator47
Most view the player that sold their stuff with disdain. We find it unconscionable that anyone who has been awarded gold pants and championship rings would sell them.
As for Tress, and knowing him personally, I don’t believe he would ever intentionally lie or cheat. If he has made an error, he will own up to it and accept punishment, should it come. Judging from the recent UConn indescretions, it’ll probably be a few games next year and a few scholarships.
cue haters in 3……2……1……
Two game suspension according to ESPNESPN.
Also $250,000 fine. (Sorry about the double post).