Coming up on two months since dropping Notre Dame in favor of transferring to UCLA, highly-touted defensive lineman Eddie Vanderdoes has received the all-clear from the NCAA to play for the Bruins this fall.
Reportedly.
Scout.com and CBSSports’ Bruce Feldman report that Vanderdoes has received clearance for immediate eligibility after going through the NCAA appeals process. Notre Dame, the school Vanderdoes signed with in February, had reportedly denied the five-star D-lineman his release from his National Letter of Intent. One initial concern for the Irish was believed to be that Vanderdoes would sign with USC, Notre Dame’s rival. The Bruins were also considered to be a favorite for Vanderdoes before Signing Day 2013.
However, Feldman reported in June that a family illness and a desire to be closer to home could factor into Vanderdoes’ appeals process. While UCLA has yet to officially comment on the latest reports, it appears that’s been the case. Had Vanderdoes lost his appeal, he would have had to sit out the 2013 season and would lose a season of eligibility, In other words, he would have four years to complete three seasons of eligibility.
It’s possible that Vanderdoes could see playing time this fall, especially if the hip injury to Bruins defensive end Owamagbe Odighizuwa forces some shuffling along UCLA’s defensive line.