A&M statement indicates Manziel will play Saturday
Despite being surrounded by turmoil and questions about possible NCAA violations and being paid a five-figure fee by a memorabilia dealer, it appears that Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel will get the start when the Aggies open their season against Rice on Saturday.
The NCAA and Texas A&M have been investigating the Heisman Trophy winner for allegedly selling autographs to memorabilia dealers. Manziel has continued to practice with the team, even though there have been questions about whether A&M would allow him to play if the investigations have not been resolved, according to the Dallas Morning News.
On Monday night, Aggie athletic director Eric Hyman instructed anyone associated with the football program to discuss the status of the Aggies' "starting quarterback."
"The focus of our coaches and student-athletes is solely on preparing for Rice this Saturday, and in the best interests of Texas A&M and the 100-plus student-athletes on the team, I have instructed Coach (Kevin) Sumlin, his staff and our student-athletes to refrain from commenting on or answering questions regarding the status of our starting quarterback, Johnny Manziel," the statement read.
The Manziels' attorney, Jim Darnell, was asked if he had been told that Manziel would start on Saturday. Darnell said that he could not answer the question, nor would he comment on the status of the investigation.
