LSU will not participate in a bowl game if offered the opportunity in 2020.
The defending national champions are 3-5, fifth in the SEC West, and were unlikely to receive an invite to the 2020 postseason unless multiple eligible teams opted to pass on playing additional games. “LSU has informed the NCAA and SEC that it will self-impose a one-year postseason ban on its football program for the 2020-21 bowl season, in addition to self-imposed sanctions already declared,” the school announced in a statement Wednesday evening. “LSU leadership made this decision after careful deliberation and review of the NCAA rules violations that have been discovered in the University’s cooperative investigation with the NCAA and IARP.
“This decision reflects LSU’s commitment to compliance with NCAA regulations and maintenance of institutional control. We regret the impact that this decision has on our current student-athletes, but we make it in the best interest of the football program and University. LSU will continue to cooperate with the NCAA and IARP throughout the enforcement process.”
The Tigers, who went undefeated last season, have regular-season games remaining this week against No. 6 Florida and next week against Ole Miss.
LSU also reduced scholarships
LSU reduced scholarships by eight over the next two years because of violations that occurred under former head coach Les Miles.
The NCAA allegations under Miles included a booster embezzling funds from a children’s hospital foundation to pay families of current players. “I respect the university’s decision to proactively address NCAA issues from the past,” LSU coach Ed Orgeron said. “I share the disappointment of our student-athletes who will not be able to compete this season in a bowl game. I am especially proud of our players’ dedication to the program during these unprecedented times in our country. Their pride in LSU will be the driving force as we continue to build a championship program. Geaux Tigers.”
–Field Level Media ()