Oregon, Chip Kelly avoid major penalties from NCAA

The University of Oregon and former football coach Chip Kelly escaped any major penalties after an NCAA investigation into recruiting violations.

The Ducks football program loses one scholarship per year for three years and was placed on probation for the same period after the NCAA’s Division I Infractions Committee found that Kelly and the university failed to monitor the program, according to a report released Wednesday.

In addition, Oregon’s official paid recruit visits were reduced from 56 to 37 for the next three academic years; its evaluation days were cut for each of the next three seasons; and it is not allowed to use recruiting services while on probation.

Kelly also received an 18-month show-cause order, meaning schools wishing to hire him would first have to appear before the infractions committee to determine if they should be subject to the show-cause procedures.

Since Kelly just made the jump to the NFL as the new head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles this off-season, the ruling should have little effect on him.

A 2010 payment of $25,000 to Willie Lyles and his recruiting service sparked the investigation into Oregon’s recruiting processes, since Lyles had a connection with a Ducks recruit.

The infractions committee said Lyles provided cash and free lodging to a prospect and also made impermissible calls and off-campus contact with prospects, their families and coaches. In addition, Oregon’s staff members exceeded coaching limits in their recruiting activity.

Kelly was unaware of Lyles’ involvement, the report said, but should have ensured that his staff complied with the rules.

ALSO:

Patriots release Aaron Hernandez

Patriots TE Aaron Hernandez taken by police in handcuffs

Yankees GM Brian Cashman lashes out at A-Rod over tweet