The LSU Tigers announced a self-imposed bowl ban for the 2020-21 college football season on Wednesday afternoon, per Ross Dellenger of Sports Illustrated.
LSU released an official statement on the ban.
LSU has informed the NCAA and SEC that it will self-impose a one-year postseason ban on its football program for the 2020-21 bowl season, in addition to self-imposed sanctions already declared. LSU leadership made this decision after careful deliberation and review of the NCAA rules violations that have been discovered in the University’s cooperative investigation with the NCAA and IARP. This decision reflects LSU’s commitment to compliance with NCAA regulations and maintenance of institutional control. We regret the impact that this decision has on our current student-athletes, but we make it in the best interest of the football program and University. LSU will continue to cooperate with the NCAA and IARP throughout the enforcement process.
LSU head coach Ed Orgeron also released a statement.
I respect the university’s decision to proactively address NCAA issues from the past. I share the disappointment of our student-athletes who will not be able to compete this season in a bowl game. I am especially proud of our players’ dedication to the program during these unprecedented times in our country. Their pride in LSU will be the driving force as we continue to build a championship program. Geaux Tigers.
The self-imposed bowl ban is related to the ongoing investigation where the father of a former football player allegedly received payments from boosters.
In October, LSU docked eight football scholarships over a two-year period and reduced recruiting visits during the same timeframe. The university also banned former player — and current NFL star — Odell Beckham Jr. for distributing $2,000 worth of $100 bills on the field after LSU’s national championship win over Clemson in January.
The Tigers, who are 3-5 on the season, have two games remaining in the 2020 college football season.