CFB Roundup: Nebraska won't punish Pelini for comments
Nebraska coach Bo Pelini will not face punishment for an angry, profanity-laced outburst directed at Cornhuskers fans after a game against Ohio State two years ago that was recorded without his knowledge.
University chancellor Harvey Perlman and athletic director Shawn Eichorst issued a joint statement on Wednesday:
"Former Director of Athletics Tom Osborne became aware of these comments and the existence of a recording more than a year ago, and addressed the matter with Coach Pelini. We have observed, and many others have commented, that Coach Pelini's demeanor has significantly improved since the time of this incident. Coach Pelini has given us his assurance that he understands the seriousness and inappropriateness of his comments. We believe he is sincere in his apology and in his regret. We are prepared to put the matter to rest."
In a recording that was made public by Deadspin on Monday, Pelini blistered media members and also Nebraska fans for leaving early and booing at halftime of the October 2011 Big Ten game. The Cornhuskers overcame a halftime deficit to beat the Buckeyes.
Pelini apologized to Nebraska fans on Monday night and said he felt certain that his job was not in jeopardy.
It has been an eventful few days for Pelini. The Cornhuskers lost 41-21 at home to Nebraska on Saturday and he also engaged in a public spat about the team's direction with Nebraska legend Tommie Frazier that angered fans.
BYU linebacker Spencer Hadley's suspension was defined by the school as five games, according to reports.
A university spokesman confirmed to the Salt Lake Tribune and Provo Daily Herald that the suspension, which originally was announced as indefinite, stemmed from a violation of BYU's strict honor code of conduct.
The university did not offer an explanation of the nature of the infraction and coach Bronco Mendenhall did not make a statement. The honor code prohibits premarital sex and alcohol and drug use.
The Daily Herald reported that Hadley will remain in school and work with the dean of students during the suspension.
Former Washington coach Don James will begin chemotherapy treatment on Monday for a malignant pancreatic tumor, the school announced.
James, 80, underwent surgery earlier this month for a gastro-intestinal issue, according to reports, but returned home to rest and recover.
James led the Huskies to six Rose Bowls in 18 seasons and a share of the 1991 national championship with a 12-0 season that included a win over Michigan. Washington won 22 straight games from 1990 to 1992.
James, who retired after the 1992 season, won national coach of the year honors in 1977, 1984 and 1991. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1997.
