Yesterday, the UT athletic department told the media that they had received the initial verdict from the NCAA in regards to freshman tailback Bryce Brown's amateur status. They declined to comment on any specifics, but were clear that they would be issuing an appeal.
"That's not a final decision by any measure," athletic director Mike Hamilton said.
Today, InsideTennessee.com is reporting that the NCAA inital ruling is for Brown to serve a one game suspension and pay back any benefits he received to attend football camps. Most VOLS' fans expected this and can live with the ruling if UT doesn't win the appeal.
It's unfortunate for the former #1 high school player in the nation though, who's recruitment was tainted by a postponed announcement and a questionable "handler" who helped with his recruitment. Many people feel that this is simply the NCAA firing a warning shot for recruits who use adult "handlers" or accept any form of benefit while in high school. With the message heard loud and clear, it is possible that the one game suspension could be removed since he has been singled out solely among many others who attended these events and signed with D-I programs.
