Mallett asks for waiver to play in '08

[Pflugerville Ag]

Ryan Mallett, the QB that just transferred from Michigan to Arkansas has filed a waiver request with the NCAA to allow him to play in 2008 w/o sitting out a year b/c of the "extenuating circumstances" that caused him to transfer (coach leaving).

I personally think the NCAA will have to deny this request b/c if they approve it, it will only open the door for players all over the country every year to transfer b/c they don't like their new coach. That would cause big problems IMO.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=3232753

[aggie1997]

Couldn't agree with you more. If the NCAA approved this request, then no athlete would ever have to sit out a year for transferring.

[Mezentius]

It's a tough situation....real tough. Rodriguez (who is looking shadier and shadier as his exit from WVU continues) comes in and suddenly this kids' playing future is at jeopardy.

The NCAA will have to deny simply to avoid a flood of transfers, but I think this case will lead to guidelines that allow transfers without penalty...much like allowing transfers when a program goes on probation.

[Vlyrock]

I don't think it's a bad attempt. I can see why he had to transfer and the NCAA will have to be careful in their ruling. But, if you commit to sign/play for a coach and style, and then said coach leaves, or gets fired -- the player is stuck. Why shouldn't they have the opportunity to play elsewhere?

I think the only time this wouldn't be allowed is if (for example), Lloyd Carr went to Arkansas and he tried to transfer there. This would prevent coaches from stealing talent from their current team.