Where do the NCAA sanctions handed to Penn State rank among other historic rulings?
5. Kentucky basketball »
After several Kentucky players were arrested in a point-shaving scandal, the NCAA handed out its first “death penalty.” The entire basketball program was barred from competition for the 1952-53 season.
4. Michigan basketball » For payments a booster gave to several players, Michigan enforced its own penalties — placing the basketball program on two years’ probation, withdrawing from postseason consideration in 2002-03 and forfeiting victories from five seasons. The NCAA added a longer probation period and took away scholarships.
3. USC football » The Trojans’ 2004-05 national title was vacated and Reggie Bush was stripped of his Heisman Trophy after the running back took improper benefits. Despite suffering a two-year bowl ban and losing scholarships, USC may enter its first season back in the postseason picture as the No. 1 team in the country.
2. Penn State football » Joe Paterno is no longer the winningest coach in college football after 111 of his victories were vacated Monday. Following the Jerry Sandusky sex abuse scandal, Penn State was also hit with a $60 million sanction, four-year postseason ban and reduced scholarships for a four-year period.
1. SMU football » The Mustangs made the death penalty popular. After an array of violations, including a slush fund for paying players, the NCAA canceled SMU’s entire 1987 season. While they were allowed to return in 1988, the Mustangs opted to sit out that season as they tried to field a team.
– Jeffrey Tomik
