It was thought that, given his already-shaky standing with the USC football program, Marc Tyler could be facing some type of sanctions from the program for his alcohol-fueled (allegedly) monologue over the weekend.
And, as it turns out, that was exactly the case.
In a statement, head coach Lane Kiffin announced that, after a conversation with athletic director Pat Haden, the senior running back has been suspended for at least the season opener. Additionally, he has been suspended from all team activities, meaning he will not be permitted to take part in voluntary summer workouts and his availability for the start of summer camp next month appears to be up in the air as well.
“I was very disappointed when I learned of Marc Tyler’s inappropriate comments that were captured by the media last week,” Kiffin said in a statement. “That is not the way that we expect our players to represent USC and our team. I have consulted with athletic director Pat Haden and I am suspending Marc for our upcoming season opener and potentially further, and in the meantime I am also suspending him from all team activities.
“Although Marc may find this punishment severe, it is imperative we continue to have a high standard for player behavior. Marc needs to work hard to show us that he can meet the standards of being a USC football player.”
Suffice to say, Kiffin’s boss has his employee’s back on the decision. “We have very high expectations for all of our student-athletes at USC. While the vast majority of our student-athletes act appropriately, Marc did not and stepped way out of line. He did not represent himself, his university or his team the way we expect. Marc has a lot to do to prove he belongs on our team. We hope Marc learns from this and comes back a changed and better person.”Tyler, who prior to his string of one-liners in front of the TMZ cameras was already awaiting a decision on disciplinary action following two previous offseason incidents, led the Trojans with 913 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in 2010. Whether he will be permitted to repeat that feat in 2011 remains very much uncertain.
“I want to apologize for embarrassing USC, my teammates and coaches. I am disappointed that I let down all the people who have supported me as I have been working through some personal issues. After meeting today with Mr. Haden and Coach Kiffin, I realize how my behavior and my statements, even though I was joking, can reflect poorly on so many people. As a veteran player, I should know that my job is to be an example for the younger guys. I accept my punishment and I regret that I will miss the opening game of my senior year. I am committed to doing everything the right way so that I can be reinstated to the team.”