Suspend Jim Tressel for the season

Ohio State coach Jim Tressel apologized Wednesday for letting people down and acknowledged that in the poll of public opinion, he may be viewed as a cheater in the wake of the violations that led to his self-imposed 5 game suspension.

“I suppose there could be some that might feel that way and there might be others who might not.”

Relax Jimmy, the public is aware that pretty much all successful coaches lie and cheat in some way. Unfortunately (for you), you got caught. It’s OK Jimmy because the punishment (which you gave yourself) was a slap on the wrist. 

Missing 5 games is a joke especially when you are allowed to work with the team all spring, throughout preseason practices, and even during the suspension. That’s right folks. Jim Tressel just has to stay away from the Buckeyes on game day during his 5 game suspension.

Former Oklahoma State wide receiver Dez Bryant was suspended for 10 games when it was proven he lied to the NCAA about his relationship with Deion Sanders. What Tressel did was much worse.

Tressel knew for a fact at least two of his current players had sold signed Ohio State memorabilia and were receiving improper benefits. But Tressel told the NCAA that he had no knowledge of any violations. Seems like a bigger lie to me. Plus, last time I checked we tend to hold coaches to a higher standard.

If simply lying about a friendship means you get shit-canned for 10 games, Tressel’s Sgt. Schultz routine (I know nothing) should get him banned for the entire season. The NCAA needs to step up. Simply accepting Tressel’s sanctions — which also includes a $250,000 fine taken from his estimated $3.5 million annual salary is unacceptable.

I’ll be surprised if the NCAA does the right thing here. This entire situation is just another example of why the college system is flawed.

Posted: March 30, 2011 at 5:24 pm | by Ryan
Filed under: Sports
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