While we’re still trying to find out the eligibility status of four other LSU players, including quarterback Jordan Jefferson, after their alleged involvement in a highly controversial bar fight, we do know the status of another Tiger who was facing questions from the NCAA.
Word has officially come that receiver Russell Shepard will be suspended for the Tigers’ season-opening game against Oregon -- at least -- because of a “compliance issue”.
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The school later confirmed the suspension, although it’s now known that it was for reasons other than a supposed “housing arrangement” for which Shepard was being investigated.
“Shepard was determined to have discussed an NCAA inquiry with a teammate who was scheduled to meet with an NCAA representative and his actions were deemed to have violated NCAA protocol,” team spokesperson Michael Bonnette said in a release.
It is expected that LSU will seek team reinstatement for Shepard, but that could span multiple games. Shepard will still be allowed to practice with the team.
Obviously, the investigation between Shepard and the NCAA is still ongoing. What future penalties Shepard would face, if any, because of his inquiry are still unknown.
Regardless of how long Shepard will be out, it’ll be far too long for coach Les Miles. One of the highest-rated recruits in the 2009 class, Shepard was second on the team with 33 catches for 254 yards and one score last season, and was the fourth-leading rusher with 226 rushing yards and two touchdowns.