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Thank you for pointing out the ever present inconsistency of the NCAA and its endless amount of regulations, most importantly the absurdity of “vacated wins.” The fact that this organization wants to play God with the record books never ceases to amaze me. Erasing from the records, or even changing the “W” to an “L” doesn’t not change history; It merely changes ink on the page. A similar issue comes to mind involving a former player from my current university (USC). There had been accusation of Reggie Bush accepting gifts from an agent while still attending USC. Years later there is still no clear conclusion or action taken, but several punishments had been in consideration if any of the allegations were ever prove true. These included taking away his Heisman Trophy and any titles the Trojans might have won with Bush’s help. Like the FSU case (Shamed FSU Coach Bobby Bowden, pictured left), winning records and team national titles were earned and that can not be altered. Though possibly a note indicating that violations occurred during this time may be would be appropriate, I think it is unreasonable to take anything such as winning records or team titles away (Is it fair to “throw the baby out with the bath water” and punish the rest of the team who played fairly?). In the end, it doesn’t change history. Even taking away his Heisman Trophy dose not change the fact that he won it or that the allegation did not affect his sportsmanship or ability to win such an award (Such as with the recent steroid scandal in the MLB). Though I would see 6 bronze trophies instead of 7 when I walk into Heritage Hall, everyone would still remember that he was the best player in college football that year and more than likely his jersey number would stay retired. After all, OJ Simpson’s did. Ultimately what would you suggest to the NCAA that would truly be a punishment besides trying to change the record books? And how can we regulate 'the regulators' when they seem to be contradicting themselves? Also, which is more of a ‘sin’ in the sports world? Violating academic integrity issues or accepting gifts from agents prematurely?
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This story is a great demonstration of how a relationship forged between a future and coach a player can be much more than just about personal gain, but the fact that were able to do it without crossing any boundaries or breaking any university rules (As done by the previous coach) makes this an even more appealing read. Though, due to scandals throughout the years, regulations for recruiting are obviously necessary it sometimes makes it difficult to truly get to know a coach or a player on a more personal level-something which is important when it comes to team chemistry and coaching styles matching with playing styles. Getting to know the player you are recruiting is not only important for the team statistics but for everyone’s well being (Both so the player can know how to help the team and so the team can know how to help the player develop as soon as they walk into the gymnasium). I applaud Capel and Griffen for achieving this while still sticking honestly to the regulations. Though some may see text messaging as “loop hole” the bare naked truth is that they not break a single regulation. Now Oklahoma is not only enjoying the success of this, but are able to revel in it without looking over their shoulder such as Florida State must be doing now with its recent academic violations. After looking at that story and shaking my head in dismay about the blatant disregard for the rules (Even if NCAA seems to have almost too many of them), I was encouraged to see a Coach accomplish his goal (Recruiting and subesquently signing Blake Griffen, pictured right) without crossing any boundaries. If the Oklahoma program were to win the NCAA Men’s Tournament, they can do it with the knowledge they won fair and square. If only we could say the same for the entire Florida State Athletic Department. My question to you is do feel OU’s coach should be rewarded for not breaking the University regulation on phone calls by lessening the restrictions? Should Capel now be allowed to call players at his will?
