Two guys who had been granted a free college education in return for agreeing to play football for Ohio State have allegedly mugged a man for his wallet, on the street at 3 o'clock in the morning. What, they needed pizza money?
Ohio State has issued a statement regarding the status of sophomore tight end Louis Irizarry and sophomore tailback Ira Guilford, who were arrested following an early-morning incident on the OSU campus this morning.According to reports, the two players were arrested after allegedly trying to rob a man. Irizarry and Guilford were apprehended by OSU police after they allegedly struck a man, knocked him to the ground and then tried to take his wallet.
Both players have been suspended from the team indefinitely. OSU should let the legal system run its course and if the case holds up, then make the suspensions permanent. There should be no scholarships for thugs and robbers. If they pay their debt to society and wish to finish college, let the University decide if they should be allowed to continue. On their own dime, or on a financial aid package based on their financial need, just like anyone else. But their time as representatives of Ohio State on the football field should be over. That is a privilege they have chosen to surrender.
UPDATE 5/4: I was glad to see this statement in this morning's Plain Dealer:
Ohio State Athletic Director Andy Geiger said Monday, "These guys are gone. They're done."Posted by dan at May 2, 2004 10:13 AM