The NCAA ruled on Wednesday that Auburn junior quarterback Cam Newton will be eligible for the rest of the season.
Newton, who had been embroiled in a recruiting controversy, is considered the front runner for Heisman Trophy after leading Auburn (12-0) to an undefeated regular season.
In its report, the NCAA admonished Newton’s father, Cecil, for trying to shop a pay-for-play plan to schools. Cecil Newton will be further restricted from access to Auburn, and Mississippi State has disassociated itself with Cecil.
“Based on the information available to the reinstatement staff at this time, we do not have sufficient evidence that Cam Newton or anyone from Auburn was aware of this activity, which led to his reinstatement,” said Kevin Lennon, NCAA vice president for academic and membership affairs in a statement.
Auburn plays South Carolina for the Southeastern Conference championship on Saturday.
—-
Contact The Daily Reveille’s sports staff at [email protected]