Oregon Suspends QB Jeremiah Masoli for 2010 Season

[Professor]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=4990555

Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli was suspended Friday for the upcoming season by coach Chip Kelly after pleading guilty to second-degree burglary in the theft of a pair of laptops and a guitar from a campus fraternity.

Masoli, who had been mentioned as a potential Heisman candidate, will remain on scholarship with the Ducks.

"He does have a redshirt season available to him if he chooses to do that," Kelly said.

Kelly announced the suspension just hours after Masoli appeared in Lane County Circuit Court to answer to the burglary charge.

Kelly, who has come under fire for some of his disciplinary decisions, also meted out punishment for running back LaMichael James and placekicker Rob Beard.

"I am extremely disappointed anytime any of our players fall short of our expectations that have been clearly outlined for them in advance on numerous occasions, and this is especially true regarding their roles within the community," Kelly said. "Their accountability for their actions is paramount and any tainting of the reputation of the University of Oregon and this football program will not be tolerated."

Masoli pleaded guilty as part of a deal that reduced his charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. Former Ducks receiver Garrett Embry pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of second-degree burglary as well.

Both were sentenced to 12 months of probation and 140 hours of community service. Together they must also pay $5,000 restitution.

Masoli threw for 2,147 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. He also rushed for 668 yards and 13 touchdowns, leading Oregon to the school's first Rose Bowl appearance since 1995.

Kelly's action was the latest twist to the Ducks' offseason of disarray.

Beard was placed on probation after entering his plea.

Linebacker Kiko Alonso pleaded not guilty to drunken driving charges in Eugene Municipal Court last week. Kelly suspended Alonso for the 2010 season upon learning of the arrest.

Defensive end Matt Simms was dismissed by Kelly after he was cited on assault charges last month. Simms pleaded guilty to physical harassment for striking a man he thought had beaten Beard.

Receiver Jamere Holland was dismissed from the team after posting vulgar comments and criticizing Kelly on the Facebook social networking site.

Kelly, who made his debut as a head coach last season, was questioned after he brought back running back LeGarrette Blount early from a season-long suspension.

Blount was suspended for punching a Boise State defensive end following the season-opening loss. He missed eight games before he was reinstated for meeting certain academic and behavioral criteria set down by Kelly.

University president Richard Lariviere issued a statement late Friday in support of Kelly's actions.

"I am confident that Coach Kelly has carefully and fairly considered the disciplinary actions he is imposing," Lariviere said. "I know that he understands the high expectations of Oregon's faculty, students and fans."

[DGB]

What a dumass. Aren't there enough stupid things to do in college that aren't felonies to keep people entertained?? Sounds like this coach has had his full lately.

[MPP]

And now he's gone after driving w/ a suspended license with weed on his person. What a dumbass. Epic fail.

[FTRWRTR]

He's a very good and very underrated athlete but his 10 cent brain cost him a chance at the pro's...also I can't believe ole miss is taking a chance on him although as I understand it he's walking on instead of being given a scholarship

[JohnAdams]

SI Cover Jinx?

His HS isn't that far from me and the kid is nothing but trouble. Spent time in Juvie for robbery and kicked out of high school. I know a few guys who keep up with the local San Mateo sports scene and say that he is a huge talent, but is seriously messed up.