North Carolina has called a press conference for 7:30 p.m. EDT Thursday to update the public on the NCAA investigation that surrounds its football program. That investigation now includes alleged academic infractions uncovered by the university, according to Inside Carolina:
Officials from North Carolina uncovered the academic issues in its own review, pertaining to a tutor, and self-reported the findings to the NCAA.
Sources report the various players involved were relegated to the scout team at practice on Wednesday.
This includes "standout" players according to ESPN's Joe Schad.
Doc at Tar Heel Fan said he thinks this is "the big announcement" everyone has been waiting for since news of the investigation came out in July. How this news will effect defensive tackle Marvin Austin, wide receiver Greg Little, other players rumored to be involved in the investigation and UNC's ACC prospects could be determined this afternoon.
What Hokie fans need to pay attention to is the length of the suspensions. If UNC loses these players to suspension, it will definitely hurt their chances at a conference title. However, the Tar Heels don't host Virginia Tech until their 10th game of the season. Whatever suspensions are handed down would almost certainly have to bee for the entire season to affect that game.
UPDATE: The mother ship will have a blow-by-blow account of the presser ... Blogger So Dear has a timeline.
Other ACC and opponent news after the jump.
- Carolina March takes a look at UNC's offense and what kind of improvement fans can expect out of it. Obviously, this might take a hit after today.
- FYJC wonders why more people aren't talking about Nate Irving's comeback from a horrific car accident. I think Irving's story will gain more respect if he continues to cause havoc and the Pack starts winning games.
- Brian and Jeff take time from rummaging through the shelves at Tuesday Morning looking for a curtain valance to replace the out-of-stock one that they managed to ruin before their wives get off work to grade BC's camp. Quarterback Dave Shinskie appears to be performing better than I thought he would.
- There has been a noticeable change in Florida State's football culture during this year's camp. And all reports indicate it's a good change.
- Boise State is also battling the injury bug, but my guess is a lot of the players that were held out of its recent scrimmage were done so for merely precautionary measures.
RonRob at JMU Sports Blog says the Dukes have weapons at running back. James Madison also showed off its renovated stadium to fans, who came away impressed.