LSU football (3-5) is adding a bowl ban to previously disclosed sanctions, as the school tries avoiding major punishment tied to multiple investigations into both the football and basketball programs.
The school released these statements Wednesday.
LSU Athletics statement:
“LSU has informed the NCAA and SEC that it will self-impose a one-year postseason ban on its football program for the 2020-21 bowl season, in addition to self-imposed sanctions already declared. LSU leadership made this decision after careful deliberation and review of the NCAA rules violations that have been discovered in the University’s cooperative investigation with the NCAA and IARP. This decision reflects LSU’s commitment to compliance with NCAA regulations and maintenance of institutional control. We regret the impact that this decision has on our current student-athletes, but we make it in the best interest of the football program and University. LSU will continue to cooperate with the NCAA and IARP throughout the enforcement process.”
Head coach Ed Orgeron statement:
“I respect the university’s decision to proactively address NCAA issues from the past. I share the disappointment of our student-athletes who will not be able to compete this season in a bowl game. I am especially proud of our players' dedication to the program during these unprecedented times in our country. Their pride in LSU will be the driving force as we continue to build a championship program. Geaux Tigers.”
The school is under a microscope for a number of issues, most recently the mishandling of of sexual assault allegations against football players. Monday, the school said it sent attorney overseeing the case 60 documents.
Those allegations are just the latest issues plaguing the program, which includes Odell Backham Jr.'s money throwing antics following the National Championship win. This Sports Illustrated article, written prior to sexual chronicles the other various ongoing NCAA infestations.
ORIGINAL STORY
Sports Illustrated is reporting, LSU is imposing penalties on its football program after an investigation revealed booster payments went to the father of a student-athlete. The LSU football program will be reducing its recruiting visits, evaluations, and communication.
In addition, the Tigers are banning former player and current Cleveland Browns wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. from its facilities for two years. Following the team’s national championship victory in New Orleans in January, Beckham gave $2,000 in cash to players.
LSU Senior Associate Athletic Director Robert Munson issued the following statement:
“LSU has worked proactively and in cooperation with the NCAA to identify and self-report any violations that occurred within our football program. We believe these self-imposed penalties are appropriate, and we will continue to coordinate and cooperate with the NCAA on this matter.”