porkchop said:
I'm not versed on the NCAA rules when it comes to what is a violation or not, but I think in large part the difference was that when Shula had those players over they were already U of A players, correct? I might be wrong about that. I do remember vaguely the incident you're referring to, and I thought that these kids were already UA signed. Crouch's violation had something to do with a recruiting visit. If that's the case, then anything extra, above and beyond could conceivably be construed as an extra benefit provided provided in an attempt to influence the player's decision.
Again, it's complicated, and I've not spent a lot of time reading the NCAA compliance manual. :lol:
You confusing Shula and Saban? Dude! :shock:
It had to do with a single player vs something for the team. One of the areas UA was cited for under DuBose was Cottrell allowing a player to sleep at his house for a bit when he was sick. Single player.
This with the thanksgiving dinners...again, a group thing.
Eric Crouch was a member of the Nebraska team at the time. He was declared ineligible to play until he repaid the cost of a ham sandwich and the cost of airplane fuel because of transportation provided. As soon as he paid that money (paid to charity) his eligibility was reinstated.
The guy that bought the sandwich was also on their Board...running for some state position and had asked Eric to help him on his campaign. Eric wasn't paid for his help. The NCAA came snooping around Lincoln and asked if Nebraska had checked it out because it could be a violation. They (Neb.) had informed the guy what he could and couldn't do...but when the researched it further they found the transportation and meal.
The extra benefit falls into that "above what others are getting."
I know I'm reaching here...but, it would almost be like this...I could buy cars and give one to every student at UA that works out...it would include the entire football team, but wouldn't be an extra benefit for a student athlete...not totally accurate, but you get the picture.
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Last note on Nebraska.
These two (Crouch and the BOR guy) had a pre-existing relationship before football...so, it shouldn't have mattered one way or another.