Academic issues may plague North Carolina

North Carolina A.D. Dick Baddour says possible academic misconduct by football players may date back a year or more.

Multiple media outlets reported that Baddour and Chancellor Holden Thorp spoke to the UNC Board of Governors at a meeting on the UNC-Wilmington campus. Asked by a board member if cheating could have happened in prior years, Baddour responded, "The short answer is yes."

The investigation centers on football players and a woman who also worked as a tutor for coach Butch Davis' son.

NCAA notifies South Carolina of probe — South Carolina received formal notification that the NCAA is investigating its football program. The letter of inquiry doesn't specify any potential violations, but could signal weeks or months of uncertainty for the team.

The NCAA has questioned South Carolina tight end Weslye Saunders about an agent-hosted party in Miami. Saunders and starting left tackle Jarriel King were among several players asked to move out of a Columbia hotel after questions were raised over unpaid bills and the rates the players were being charged.

King and first-team cornerback Chris Culliver missed the No. 24 Gamecocks opener against Southern Mississippi because the NCAA had not ruled on their eligibility.

Miami injuries — Defensive tackle Jeremy Lewis (leg) and three other Miami players were ruled out for the season because of injuries. The Hurricanes also listed fullback John Calhoun, running back Darion Hall and linebacker Travis Williams as out for the year because of undisclosed surgeries.

Defensive lineman Luther Robinson and linebacker Kevin Nelson are listed as out for Saturday's game against No. 2 Ohio State. Running back Graig Cooper is listed as doubtful.

Ole Miss dismisses starter — Coach Houston Nutt says starting Mississippi offensive lineman Rishaw Johnson has been kicked off the team after a "violation of team rules."

Associated Press