It’s not been a great day for (Warning!!! Personal opinion ahead!!!) the greatest rivalry in all of sports.
First, the Columbus Dispatch that there might be another “issue” involving impermissible benefits received by Ohio State football players and/or their relatives. Now comes word that That School Up North has their own off-field issue to deal with as well.
According to the Detroit News, first-year Michigan head coach Brady Hoke has indefinitely suspended wide receiver Darryl Stonum for... well... we’re not really sure, other than it involves “the legal system”. The words contained in Hoke’s statement, though, makes it sound as if it was something fairly significant that landed the senior the open-ended sanction.
The coach did allow, though, that Stonum could return to the team if he fulfills all of his commitments, legal and otherwise.
“Darryl made a poor decision that is unacceptable and won’t be tolerated,” Hoke said. “He will be disciplined for behavior that is unbecoming of a Michigan football player.
“This is a serious situation. We are disappointed and any athletic department discipline will be handled internally. We will provide the appropriate support and counseling in order for him to learn and grow from this mistake.
“If he fulfills all of the commitments he has to the legal system and our program, we will make a determination regarding his return to the team.”
Stonum, who was popped on a drunk-driving charge in 2008, finished second on the Wolverines in receptions (49) and receiving yards (633) in 2010. His four receiving touchdowns were tied for second on the team as well.
He has started 25 of the 36 games in which he’s played since coming to Michigan as a member of their 2008 recruiting class.