Clemson confirmed earlier today that it had sent three players home from its College Football Playoff venue in Miami because of what were reportedly failed drug tests. This afternoon, the other playoff venue has seen its first bit of off-field “controversy.”
In a very brief press release, Alabama announced that an internal decision has been made to send Tony Brown (pictured, No. 7) home from Arlington, where UA is preparing for its playoff semifinal matchup with Michigan State tomorrow night in the Cotton Bowl. The stated reason given by the school was, of course, unspecified violation of team rules.
The defensive back played in all 13 games this season, although in only six did he see action on defense as most of his playing time came on special teams. On the season, he was tied for the team lead in special teams tackles with eight. Prior to this year, Brown had played in 13 games, making two starts.
A five-star member of the Tide’s 2014 recruiting class, Brown was rated as the No. 4 cornerback in the country; the No. 2 player at any position in the state of Texas; and the No. 25 player overall according to Rivals.com. No recruit in UA’s top-rated class that year was rated higher than Brown, although his biggest impact during his two seasons in Tuscaloosa has been on special teams.