Southern California tailback Marc Tyler has been suspended from all team activities and the Trojans’ season opener because of comments he made to TMZ that implied he gets paid to play football for USC.
When asked by TMZ whether he could make more money at USC or in the NFL, Tyler said, “USC, they breaking bread,” and made a gesture indicating a big stack of money.
USC coach Lane Kiffin suspended Tyler on Monday for the Sept. 3 opener against Minnesota and maybe longer. The fifth-year senior with 1,183 career yards rushing is facing potential discipline from the Pac-12 school because of two alcohol-related problems in April.
“I am disappointed that I let down all the people who have supported me as I have been working through some personal issues,” Tyler said in a statement issued by the Trojans. “I realize how my behavior and my statements, even though I was joking, can reflect poorly on so many people.”
USC is entering the second year of a postseason ban during four years of NCAA probation stemming from illegal benefits provided to Reggie Bush.
TMZ recorded Tyler’s controversial comments last Thursday outside Voyeur, a West Hollywood nightclub.
“That is not the way that we expect our players to represent USC and our team,” said Kiffin, whose team plays Nov. 4 at Colorado. “Although Marc may find this punishment severe, it is imperative we continue to have a high standard for player behavior.”
The Associated Press
