This afternoon a full statement was released by the NCAA regarding it's treatment of both the Cam Newton and the Ohio State situations.
In regards to Newton, "...had Cam Newton's father or a third party actually received money or benefits for his recruitment, Cam Newton would have been declared ineligible regardless of his lack of knowledge."
Okay, well, that clears THAT up. Note to parents, boosters, and agents, the NCAA policy should be understood as follows: there's nothing wrong with asking for money or favors. Just don't actually take anything.
As for Ohio State, they had this to say,
"There have been questions as well since last week related to the withholding policy and student-athlete reinstatement for NCAA championships and bowl games. This policy was developed and implemented by the Division I membership...it allows for suspending a reinstatement condition in specific instances involving NCAA championships or bowl games. It recognizes the unique opportunity these events provide at the end of a season, and they are evaluated differently from a withholding perspective for student-athlete reinstatement. In the Ohio State situation, the facts are consistent with the established policy."
So, basically, if you're going to violate a rule, wait until the season is over.
Get real, Mr. Emmert, the mere fact that the NCAA felt a need to release this statement is a sure sign that you know there are some gross inconsistencies in what you are doing.
Personally, I'm still not buying what you're selling...it's doubtful that many others will either.
Nice try, though.