Posted on Oct 03
Raiders linebackers coach Antonio Pierce receives eight-year show-cause order for recruiting violations
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Las Vegas Raiders linebackers coach Antonio Pierce has been issued an eight-year show-cause order by the NCAA for his involvement in recruiting violations during his time as an assistant coach at Arizona State University.
Why it matters: The show-cause order restricts Pierce from being hired by an NCAA school without serving a suspension and prohibits him from having contact with coaches or players during that period.
What's new: The violations committed by Pierce and other staff members at Arizona State involved circumventing COVID-19 restrictions, impermissible recruiting contact, tampering with players from other schools, and violating recruiting dead periods.
Yes, but: While Pierce was described as the ringleader in orchestrating the violations, it's important to note that the violations occurred before he joined the Las Vegas Raiders.
The bottom line: The NCAA's punishment extends beyond Pierce, impacting the ASU football program as a whole.
- Head coach Herm Edwards was fired after a 1-2 start in the 2022 season and was found to have committed a "responsibility violation."
- Former football analyst Anthony Garnett also received a five-year show-cause order for his involvement in the violations.
What to watch: The impact of the NCAA's sanctions on ASU's football program, including probation, fine, vacated games, reduced scholarships, and recruiting restrictions.
What's next: As the Raiders' linebackers coach, Pierce will continue in his current role despite the show-cause order. The team has not released a statement regarding the NCAA's decision.
Our thought bubble: It remains to be seen how this situation will affect Pierce's long-term prospects in coaching, especially if he wishes to transition to a collegiate coaching position in the future.
By the numbers: 35 prospects were involved in the impermissible recruiting contact, highlighting the scope of the violations committed by Pierce and his colleagues.
Zoom Out: This case sheds light on the ongoing challenges faced by colleges and universities to ensure compliance with NCAA rules and regulations.
Zoom In: The show-cause order specifically highlights Pierce's role as the ringleader in orchestrating the recruiting violations and his abuse of authority to pressure staff members into engaging in the violations.
Quote: "Pierce used his position of authority to pressure staff members into engaging in violations, often by instilling fear that they would lose their jobs if they did not follow his orders." - NCAA report