“On Saturday, USC listed a student-athlete as ‘out’ on its availability report for the game against Michigan, but that student-athlete later participated in the game. The student-athlete had previously been sidelined due to injury and did not initially dress in uniform for the game; however, following a sequence of unfortunate injuries that occurred in the first half at the student-athlete’s position, he was medically cleared to play, suited up, and later entered the game.
“Although these circumstances were unfortunate, it is critical for availability reports to be accurate. Consequently, the conference is imposing a $5,000 fine and admonishes all institutions to use the ‘out’ designation only if there are no circumstances under which a student-athlete could participate in a game. The conference considers the matter closed and will have no further comment.”
