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NCAA investigators to get new outlook on life on campus

 
Published Aug. 10, 2013

INDIANAPOLIS — The NCAA's interim enforcement chief, Jonathan Duncan, said Friday he wants investigators to spend more time on campuses. Details of the plan are still being worked out.

"One of the things I hear is that our staff sometimes lacks an understanding of what campus life is really like," Duncan said. "So we are piloting a program where our staff will work on campus with athletic directors, compliance staff members and coaches and walk in their shoes so that we have a true understanding of what goes on."

Duncan also said he plans to change the way cases are investigated.

"There are those who believe that our staff members could benefit from better training in investigative techniques and interviewing techniques," Duncan said. "We are going to provide that training so that a good investigation will be done timely and professionally; though I'm not suggesting that doesn't happen now."

The changes are part of Duncan's plan to rebuild the enforcement staff's reputation. In January, the NCAA announced an enforcement official ignored its policies to improperly collect evidence against Miami.

"Certainly, it's been a difficult time in enforcement," he said. "They are tough, hard-working, good people. But they are human. I think morale is good, and I think it will continue to improve."

TCU coach downplays comment

FORT WORTH, Texas — TCU coach Gary Patterson tried to deflate any controversy created by his comments about LSU, his team's first opponent. Wednesday, he was asked about All-America defensive lineman Devonte Fields, who is suspended for the first two games for undisclosed reasons.

"My whole team would vote Devonte to be back on the team because they all want to win," Patterson said. "That doesn't teach life lessons."

The comments came two days after LSU coach Les Miles reinstated leading rusher Jeremy Hill after a vote by his players. Hill was suspended after an arrest for battery.

"I didn't mention Jeremy Hill. I didn't mention Les Miles," Patterson said. "It was more about Devonte Fields. If they want to make something up so they can get all fired up, (go ahead)."

Vanderbilt: Four former players — safety Cory Batey, defensive back Brandon Banks, receiver Jaborian McKenzie and tight end Brandon Vandenburg — were indicted on five counts of aggravated rape of an unconscious student at a campus dorm. Police alleged the incident took place June 23. On June 29, the school dismissed the players, all of whom redshirted last season, from the team and barred them from campus. Police said Batey was in custody on $350,000 bond and arrangements were being made for the other three to be taken into custody.

Wake Forest: Josh Harris, the school's leading rusher two of the past three seasons, was cleared to play. Last week, the school declared him out for undisclosed reasons and sought a waiver from the NCAA to restore his eligibility.