According to reports, the University of North Carolina suspended 13 football players after violating team rules. The athletes were suspended for selling team-issued shoes. The violations were originally reported by the Tarheels to the NCAA in February according to CBS Sports which was followed by an investigation that was processed in March.
“I am certainly upset by our players’ actions and how their choices reflect on them, our program and the University,” head coach Larry Fedora said in a statement as reported by The Daily Tarheel. “These young men knew the rules and are being held responsible for the poor choices they have made. Accountability is an important core principle in this program. We will learn from this and aim to do better in the future.”
One of the most notable players involved in the suspensions, Chazz Surratt, was said to be competing for the starting Quarterback job this season. As a redshirt freshman, Surratt played in nine games, seven of which he started. Surratt finished the season with a team-high 1,342 yards passing and threw eight touchdowns and ran for five more. Surratt also ran for 210 yards on the ground. The suspended QB will be available for play time in a premiere game against the Miami University Hurricanes on September 27.
“We are disappointed,” athletic director Bubba Cunningham said according to CBS Sports. “Chancellor [Carol] Folt, Coach Fedora and I have high expectations of all of our students, coaches and staff, and we expect everyone to embrace and abide by all team and NCAA rules. We always will strive to get better.”
UNC’s season kicks off on September 1 against the Cal Golden Bears. The suspended players are still able to practice with the team until the beginning of the season.