Todd Gurley was sanctioned by the NCAA for another four games despite the team's hope in having him back to the field.
The NCAA announced that he would need to sit out until Nov. 15 for accepting more than $3,000 for autographed memorabilia and other items over a two-year period.
According to the NCAA Statement "The University's due diligence in its investigation and the student's full disclosure of his involvement in the violations were factors in not imposing a more severe withholding condition."
The school has made an immediate appeal and the appeal will be heard this week by an NCAA Committee. They had requested to either reduce or even remove the suspension of the player.
According to coach Mark Richt "When rules are broken, you don't have control over the discipline. That's a part of life."
If the suspension is upheld, Gurley would also miss a Nov. 8 contest at Kentucky. But he would be able to return for a Southeastern Conference showdown in Athens against No. 4 Auburn on Nov. 15.
NCAA said "In determining the appropriate reinstatement conditions, a 30 percent withholding condition is consistent with precedent in similar cases."
Gurley's suspension as raised a lot of question with regards to players receiving money for their autpgraphs.
South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier thinks that players should receive up to $5,000 per year for expenses not covered by their scholarships. He said this in consideration to a player brining income to the organization.
He said "It's a team sport. I think it might alienate team chemistry if some guys are getting a whole bunch of money. The right guard will be like, 'Where's my cut for blocking for you?' I think it ought to be sort of even. Most guys in the position to sign autographs are smart enough to say, 'See me after the bowl game. We'll do business then.' That's the way we have to do it right now."
Richt said he expects Gurley to return for the final three games of the regular season, plus any playoff or bowl games.
He adds "I don't think there's any doubt Todd is going to finish with honor and have a great finish to his career here at Georgia, whenever it ends."
