According to the Bham News

[AUman43 5]

NCAA rules already.

IAN R. RAPOPORT News staff writer

TUSCALOOSA - University of Alabama officials had no response to Florida media reports that Crimson Tide football coach Nick Saban may have committed an NCAA violation.

UA officials would not comment on the specific incidents, nor would they address whether the charges have merit. In general, Alabama Associate Athletics Director for Compliance Chris King looks into nearly every claim to be proactive and prevent possible violations.

If a school officially turned in an Alabama program for a violation, there would be an investigation by the compliance staff.

The Miami Herald and Canesport.com, a Web site for University of Miami fans, each reported that Saban had three conversations with prospects that could be perceived as more than a greeting. From April 15 to May 31, coaches can evaluate players on their campuses but cannot have a face-to-face encounter "in excess of exchange of greeting."

Neither the NCAA (to the Herald), nor UA officials (to The Birmingham News) would say whether it is investigating the matter.

Miami Krop High linebacker Etienne Sabino told the Herald that Saban talked with him about defensive schemes and about Alabama's needs. Miami Northwestern High's Marcus Fortson and Brandon Washington both described conversations to the newspaper that may have been more than a greeting, taking more than a few minutes.

Even if the former Miami Dolphins coach were found to have violated the rules, it would likely be a secondary violation, for which there is no significant penalty.

E-mail: irapoport@bhamnews.com

Wouldn't be ironic if this over eager coach got them in trouble again? Probably just a matter of time!

[AUman43 5]

Sorry, didn't know this was posted on the football forum rather than in recruiting.