So Sad: Volunteers best key man “Dalton Knecht”serious issue…

On Tuesday, news broke that the NCAA has an ongoing investigation progressing against the Tennessee Volunteers regarding allegations against NIL dealings. In response, the attorney general of Tennessee (and Virginia) has filed a lawsuit against the governing body of Division I college athletics, per The Associated Press.

The lawsuit submitted by the attorneys general claims that the NCAA is “enforcing rules that unfairly restrict how athletes can commercially use their name, image, and likeness at a critical juncture in the recruiting calendar.” They claim that the NCAA has violated the Sherman Antitrust Act of 1890, which defines the rule of free competition among those immersed in commerce.

NCAA and Tennessee Engaging in Struggled over Name, Image, and Likeness

The NCAA allowed players to compensate on their name, image, and likeness (NIL) in 2021. They have also allowed more accessible use of the transfer portal. The effect of the new ruling has resulted in the college landscape changing dramatically. Mutli-time transfers are now the norm, players are signing brand deals before taking a snap, and conference realignment will present teams with new challenges. However, the NCAA believes that the Tennessee football program and their booster-funder NIL collective have made illegal gains through player compensation.

Chancellor of the University of Tennessee, Donde Plowman, wrote a letter to NCAA president Charlie Baker, claiming they do not provide schools with clear rules regarding NIL. Plowman claims the NCAA continues to contradict itself regarding guidance for NIL dealings

This is not the first time the Volunteers football team has come under fire by the NCAA for NIL. Last July, they paid north of $8 million for more than 200 infractions during Jeremy Pruitt’s tenure as the Vols head football coach. The Infractions included impermissible hotel room nights, meals, and recruiting contracts. 

The UT faithful remains hopeful that the new allegations have nothing to do with super prospect and quarterback Nico Iamaleava. The California native will enter his second season under Josh Heupel next fall. He went 12-of-19 for 151 and a touchdown against the Iowa Hawkeyes in the Citrus Bowl. He also ran 15 times for 27 yards and three scores. Iamaleava will take over for Joe Milton next season.

Follow me on Twitter at @alec_musa. You can also reach out to me via email at musaalec@gmail.com. To read more of our articles and keep up to date on the latest college and NFL news, click here!

Call Mayfield Sports Marketing at 262-366-8188 to schedule Green Bay Packers players or alumni for your corporate appearance or product promotion.  Our booking agents will work on your behalf to get you the best price for your desired sports speaker. Mayfield Sports Marketing has earned a reputation of being the one to call for booking top athletes to speak at events and trade shows. To learn more about Packers players or alumni appearance costs and booking fees, please call us today. www.MayfieldSports.com.

Wisconsin Sports Heroics is proud to partner with Radtke Sports to offer autographed memorabilia. Brett Favre, Rob Gronkowski, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and MORE Guaranteed Authentic Collectibles and Memorabilia, including signed jerseys, photos, and more at www.RadtkeSports.com USE promo code: WSH for FREE SHIPPING on your purchase. Some restrictions may apply.