The USC Trojans had their appeal heard today in Indianapolis, trying to reduce their sanctions stemming from improper benefits given to former Trojan Reggie Bush. USC is trying to get their penalties cut in half, a two-year bowl ban reduced to one year and a reduction in football scholarships from 10 to five per year over the next three years. School president Max Nikias and athletic director Pat Haden led the USC contingent at today's hearing.
↵The decision by the NCAA is expected to take several weeks, and the chances for success for the Trojans aren't very good. After 2008, according to the Associated Press, only one school in 11 won such an appeal based on the NCAA's "abuse of discretion." After the appeal hearing, USC was tight-lipped, issuing a simple statement:
↵↵↵The hearing took place the morning of Saturday, Jan. 22 at a Westin Hotel near NCAA headquarters in Indianapolis. President Nikias made an opening statement. AD Pat Haden delivered a closing statement. The university's legal team presented the case for reduced sanctions.
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The delegation and the university community look forward to the decision of the Infractions Appeals Committee. Until that time, the delegation will have no further comment.
If USC loses its appeal, it will be ineligible for the inaugural Pac-10 championship game, scheduled for December 3, in addition to any bowl game next season.
↵For more USC football news and information, be sure to read Conquest Chronicles.