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The SEC made a bit of a surprising decision on Wednesday when it announced that it would be breaking from its usual protocol regarding intraconference transfer requests, citing “unique circumstances.”
The ruling allows a handful of players who transferred following the 2019 season to gain eligibility this fall.
Generally, SEC policy toward intraconference transfers has required them to sit out a year at their new institution before being eligible to play. With the ongoing situation regarding COVID-19, the conference is relaxing this policy.
This allows several high-profile transfers, namely Kentucky quarterback Joey Gatewood and Tennessee offensive lineman Cade Mays, who transferred from Auburn and Georgia, respectively, to compete.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey elaborated on the league’s decision, making it clear that the decision was a product of the circumstances of this season.
“It must be stated unequivocally that these approvals are solely a reflection of the unique circumstances present and should not be interpreted as endorsement of the rationale set forth by individuals seeking these waivers,” Sankey said in a statement. “These are unprecedented times in which decisions about eligibility and competitive opportunities demand consideration of the current challenges facing our student-athletes and schools as a result of COVID-19.
“In a non-COVID environment there may have been a different outcome for some of the waiver requests determined today.”
Sankey said this rule change is just for this season, although he conceded that a changing national landscape with regard to allowing players to be immediately eligible after transferring necessitates a revision of the rule this coming offseason.
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