Noah Shannon has started 28 games for the Iowa Hawkeyes and for this season he ranked first in the depth charts as left defensive tackle. But Shannon got caught up in a gambling scandal along with players from Iowa State. While he was not charged in the criminal investigation, the NCAA suspended him for the season.
With coach Kirk Ferentz ‘s support, Shannon filed an appeal. The NCAA denied the appeal, according to the Associated Press.
“I am incredibly disappointed by the NCAA’s decision this weekend,” Ferentz said. “Noah is an exceptional person who has been a great leader on and off the field for our program over the last five years. While we will certainly miss him on the field, I am grateful that Noah has chosen to remain a part of our program as he prepares for the next step of his journey.”
Last month Shannon bet on a Hawkeyes team in another sport, an NCAA violation punishable by permanent eligibility. Ferentz called the full-season suspension harsh.
“I want to apologize to the fans and everyone who supports Iowa Football,” Shannon said in a statement. “I made a mistake and I have taken responsibility for it. I am heartbroken that I will not be able to play alongside my brothers again, but I plan to stick with the team and support them any way that I can going forward.
“I want to say thank you to my family, Coach Ferentz, the coaching staff, and all of my teammates and friends for their unwavering support. I am going to make sure that this mistake does not define me or my career going forward.”
