The NCAA has announced their ruling in Todd Gurley's disciplinary case, suspending him for two more games this season.
The University of Georgia (UGA) acknowledged the suspension in a statement Wednesday announcing their intention to appeal the ruling immediately. The NCAA determined Gurley accepted improper benefits totaling more than $3,000.
"In determining the appropriate reinstatement conditions, a 30 percent withholding condition is consistent with precedent in similar cases," the NCAA said in a statement. "Additional withholding was strongly considered because the violations occurred over multiple years with multiple individuals and the student received extensive rules education about the prohibition of receiving payment for autographs. However, the university's due diligence in its investigation and the student's full disclosure of his involvement in the violations were factors in not imposing a more severe withholding condition."
Gurley will be eligible to return for the Bulldogs on Nov. 15, a home game against Auburn. Georgia is 2-0 thus far without their Heisman-caliber tailback and will be without him Saturday against Florida and the week after against Kentucky.
Gurley will be required to repay part of the money he accepted for his autograph to a charity of his choice. Also required for his reinstatement will be 40 hours of community service.
Georgia is currently favored to win the SEC East and could even secure a College Football Playoff spot, as the committee currently has the Bulldogs ranked 11th. They will have to hold off Missouri and win the SEC Title to get their best chance.
"I think we all make mistakes," Bulldogs coach Mark Richt said last week, according to ESPN. "What I've always told our players, if they do make a mistake to be honest about it and to take their discipline like a man and move on in a positive direction. Learn from it and move on. I think that's the approach Todd has taken right now and many other players over the years. The goal is not only to teach guys to play football but to educate them. This was part of the education process."
