Ok, maybe not in those words, but they came pretty damn close. The NCAA and Auburn have stipulated that the following statement is fact.
“The student-athlete’s father (Cecil Newton) and an owner of a scouting service (Kenny Rogers) worked together to actively market the student-athlete as a part of a pay-for-play scenario in return for Newton’s commitment to attend college and play football. NCAA rules (Bylaw 12.3.3) do not allow individuals or entities to represent a prospective student-athlete for compensation to a school for an athletic scholarship.”
Auburn suspended Cam Newton Monday, appealed the NCAA for his reinstatement yesterday and today learned that their Heisman QB is good to go.
Thus, the NCAA has set a precedent whereby anyone can shop a player to the highest bidder. Worst case scenario? The middle-man (father, coach, dentist, whatev) gets caught, a la Preacher Newton, and gets both wrists slapped by the Association (Cecil has had his access to the Auburn program "limited"). The player, unless he foolishly admits knowledge, just keeps on making highlights, bringing home wins, and opening further the pockets of boosters. This seems certain to end well.