Youngstown State’s return to the FCS national stage could be a short-lived one.
Last weekend, thanks to a double-overtime win over Wofford, the Penguins advanced to the semifinals of FCS playoffs for the first time since 2006. YSU, led by former Nebraska head coach Bo Pelini, is now set to face No. 2 seed Eastern Washington Saturday.
The Penguins, though, could be short-handed because of a development shrouded in mystery and uncertainty. From WKBN-TV:Sources tell WKBN 27 First News that four or five football players, three of which are significant contributors, could be suspended and may not be making the trip to the game.
A source said the suspensions may be the result of drug testing after the Jacksonville State game.
Given the alleged facts the report presents, it would appear YSU players played in the quarterfinal matchup last weekend even as the alleged failed drug tests came after the first round of the playoffs.
Pelini has declined to comment on the situation. The television station’s website writes that “YSU President Jim Tressel said he didn’t hear anything about player suspensions and pointed all questions to the sports information department.”