Perhaps, the NCAA views Penn State and SMU as bookends.
Perhaps, the NCAA has contemplated whether the constellation of scandals that occurred at intercollegiate athletic programs between 1987 and 2012, were results of its reluctance (in the face of public outcry the Death Penalty was excessive) to levy harsher penalties.
Many have criticized the NCAA, labeling it weak and ineffective.
Now, some are complaining the NCAA has abused its power, in acting so quickly - and harshly - against Penn State.
Regarding Penn State, did the NCAA abuse its power or did the NCAA do what was necessary and proper?
The NCAA made a statement. Protecting the image of a legacy/football program from bad publicity from obvious moral issues is way worse than violating any rules dealing with amateurism.
It was really harsh. But I wouldn't say too harsh. I think the removal of the wins and the fine was the appropriate part. The rest was to make sure the NCAA got its point across, they are the power in this. Coaches should not have that much power! They wanted to prove their point.
doesn't matter, nothing makes up for what happened. It is just an ugly situation all around!
Overstepped.
For a change the NCAA did what they needed to do.
Overstepped, but someone needed to do something.
Step Up 2: The Street
For reals, they stepped up.