NCAA Refuses to Let Pair Play in Cotton Bowl

The NCAA has turned down Texas A&M;’s request for restoration of Cotton Bowl playing eligibility to football reserves Melvin Collins and Tony Bartley.

A&M; Coach Jackie Sherrill had declared the two ineligible, pending an NCAA appeal, because of alleged dealings with Atlanta sports agent Jim Abernethy.

Meanwhile, Abernethy said in Atlanta that he has agreed to a settlement with Sherrill on the release of his contract with the two Aggie players.

Abernethy said he signed a release in lieu of receiving a settlement of $5,600 for money he gave to fullback Collins and $1,500 to offensive tackle Bartley. Abernethy stood by his previous statement that he spent $15,000 to $20,000 in expenses on the players.