ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia will file a request with the NCAA for tailback Todd Gurley’s eligibility to be reinstated.
Gurley has been suspended for the last two games while Georgia investigated allegations he broke NCAA rules by receiving improper benefits. Coach Mark Richt has confirmed the allegations involved autographs.
Georgia said it “hopes for and expects” a prompt ruling by the NCAA after submitting the request later Wednesday.
In the statement released by Georgia, Gurley acknowledged making mistakes.
“I want to thank the university, coaches, teammates, and the Bulldog Nation for their patience and support,” Gurley said. “I take full responsibility for the mistakes I made, and I can’t thank the university, my coaches, and teammates enough for supporting me throughout this process. I’m looking forward to getting back on the field with my teammates.”
After reviewing Georgia’s request, the NCAA could either accept the two-game suspension of Gurley imposed by Georgia as sufficient or announce a longer suspension and possible additional penalties.
Gurley has been represented by attorney William King during the process.
“Todd has taken responsibility for his actions and is ready to rejoin his teammates,” King said. “The university has been great throughout the past two weeks and has done everything it can to support Todd.”
King thanked University of Georgia president Jere Morehead, athletic director Greg McGarity, and coach Mark Richt “for standing by Todd.”
McGarity said earlier this month there is “a lot of misinformation” in reports about Gurley’s alleged ties to a merchandise dealer.
Gurley has continued to practice with Georgia during the suspension.
Despite playing without Gurley, who was considered a leading Heisman Trophy candidate before the suspension, No. 9 Georgia took impressive road wins at Missouri and Arkansas. Freshman tailback Nick Chubb filled in for Gurley with a combined 345 yards rushing in the two wins.
Georgia, off this week, plays Florida in Jacksonville on Nov. 1.
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