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The introduction of name, image and likeness deals in college sports has brought with it an entirely different set of problems for the NCAA.
On one hand, NIL legislation has given us incredible stories such as the 51 offensive linemen that signed an endorsement deal with Hooters last season.
On the other hand, you wind up with situations like former Florida Gators QB commit Jaden Rashada getting trapped in limbo thanks to a $13 million deal gone wrong.
It’s truly a double-edged sword.
Normally, that would be where the NCAA steps in. But lack of oversight and vague laws have made it difficult to do so thus far. Now that could be about to change.
NCAA Ramping Up Enforcement Of NIL Violations
Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated reports that the NCAA is preparing to step up its enforcement of NIL rules thanks to a significant change.
With NIL cases, NCAA investigators have been hamstrung by uncooperative witnesses.
Now, using a change that lowers the violation standard, they can use circumstantial evidence to charge schools.
With a beefed-up staff & rule change, NCAA is in pursuit.https://t.co/Ee6RgbqihY
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) January 30, 2023
The NCAA and enforcement staff will no longer be hamstrung by uncooperative witnesses when it comes to potential name, image and likeness (NIL) violations, thanks to a new bylaw that went into effect Jan. 1.
Investigators can now use circumstantial evidence (like a tip or news story) instead of on-record sourcing to presume a school violated NCAA rules. Schools can disprove the allegation or else be potentially charged. The move strengthens the enforcement staff’s ability to charge schools and allows more leeway for investigators. – via SI.com
Dellenger spoke with NCAA vice president of enforcement Jon Duncan regarding the significant rule change.
“If it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it’s a duck,” Duncan said. “Instead of putting the burden on the enforcement staff to always come up with a smoking gun, which we don’t always have, there is a presumption. It puts the burden on the school. It’s a really powerful tool.”
Duncan did not address any programs specifically. But his comments come at an interesting time. Not only are the Gators dealing with the Rashada fall out, but Michigan and coach Jim Harbaugh could also be in trouble.
Harbaugh allegedly offered recruits improper benefits in 2022. He then allegedly denied doing to to NCAA investigators. The second part appears to be what has the NCAA on his back.
And it appears the timing could not be worse for Harbaugh and the Wolverines.
The NCAA has its hammer back, and it appears it’s not afraid to use it.