The LSU Tigers on Wednesday informed the NCAA that it will self-impose a one-year bowl ban on its football team, which is 3-5 entering Saturday’s game against No. 6 Florida.
“LSU has informed the NCAA and SEC that it will self-impose a one-year postseason ban on its football program for the 2020-21 bowl season, in addition to self-imposed sanctions already declared,” the school announced in a statement Wednesday evening. “LSU leadership made this decision after careful deliberation and review of the NCAA rules violations that have been discovered in the University’s cooperative investigation with the NCAA and IARP.
“This decision reflects LSU’s commitment to compliance with NCAA regulations and maintenance of institutional control. We regret the impact that this decision has on our current student-athletes, but we make it in the best interest of the football program and University. LSU will continue to cooperate with the NCAA and IARP throughout the enforcement process.”
LSU had already self-imposed a reduction of eight scholarships over two years because of NCAA violations under previous coach Les Miles. The violations were related to an LSU booster embezzling money from a children’s hospital foundation and facilitating it to families of current and former student-athletes. A Level III violation resulted from Cleveland Browns receiver and former LSU star Odell Beckham Jr. giving $2,000 in cash to four LSU players on the field after the Tigers’ 42-25 victory against Clemson in the CFP National Championship game on Jan. 13.
“I respect the university’s decision to proactively address NCAA issues from the past,” LSU coach Ed Orgeron said in a statement. “I share the disappointment of our student-athletes who will not be able to compete this season in a bowl game. I am especially proud of our players’ dedication to the program during these unprecedented times in our country. Their pride in LSU will be the driving force as we continue to build a championship program.”
Bowl games are permitted to invite teams regardless of record this season.