....this is the most blatant and serious offense that I have seen in college football in decades. Much worse than anything USC or OSU or Auburn has done... those programs at least tried to be discreet. Oregon's is in your face blatant.
I agree 100%.
In the Cam Newton situation, it was his Dad who was asking for money. That will be dealt with sternly if they can prove that Auburn or anyone affiliated paid money. But it's his Dad. There are rogue parents everywhere.
Oregon is more serious because it's a "handler" or pimp that was asking for money. A guy who's profession was "getting close to players and earning their trust" and then selling them like cattle. It's a slight distinction maybe to some, but one the NCAA will want to make an example of in my opinion.
Secondly, Oregon tried to cover it up with the last minute "paperwork creation" scam to make it look like it was a scouting service and they were getting information.
Thirdly, Phil Knight. Sure the NCAA allows you to give a kid a pair of athletic shoes. But a pair of one-of-a-kind Jordan's? This is going to change. To keep college athletics competitive, and profitable, I am quite sure the Universities are pushing hard to keep the Phil Knights and T-Boone Pickens at more of a distance. Universities across the country do not want to have to be in this silly facilities war. The NCAA is not appreciative of these guys so look for them to not be doing Mr. Knight's Ducks any favors here.
Assuming they can collect the evidence, this should come down much harder than either OSU or USC.
When the dust clears, will TCU be named National Champs?