Fort Collins – Colorado State running back Gartrell Johnson’s academic transcript already passed muster with the NCAA Clearinghouse, so the CSU administration found no issues in the wake of a New York Times report questioning a high school correspondence school operation.
CSU was one of 11 colleges, mostly in Florida, that had accepted transcripts from Miami- based University High School – which advertises diplomas for $399. Johnson’s school is listed in the CSU media guide as Miami Springs High School, where he scored 18 touchdowns as a senior.
Johnson’s letter of intent came in the summer of 2004, long after the traditional February signing period. He was late meeting NCAA academic requirements, although it isn’t uncommon to get late signees.
He saw action in one game in 2004 but sat out a medical hardship year. This season as a redshirt freshman, he played in only three games, gaining 26 yards.
After CSU was contacted by The New York Times about two weeks ago, an internal investigation was launched, CSU athletic director Mark Driscoll said.
“The NCAA Clearinghouse checks the legitimacy of core courses and so do our admissions people,” Driscoll said.
Johnson is expected to resume practice with the rest of the Rams on Thursday in preparation for the Dec. 22 Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego.
Driscoll said CSU has had no contact with the NCAA regarding Johnson’s eligibility.
