By John Shinn
Oklahoma linebacker Mike Balogun can still practice with the team thanks to a temporary restraining order issued by a Cleveland County District Judge Tuesday afternoon in a case concerning his amateur status with the NCAA.
Balogun was to become decertified today as an eligible football player due to an NCAA ruling having to do with the linebacker’s involvement with a semi-professional league and whether or not he participated in games after the age of 21.
Until the matter is resolved with the NCAA, Balogun will not be allowed to play in any games. The Sooners’ season opener is Sept. 5 against BYU.
The petition filed on Balogun’s behalf by Norman attorney Woody Glass and granted by Cleveland County District Judge Tom Lucas allows the OU linebacker to practice with the team until a hearing can be held. Lucas has set the hearing for Monday.
Balogun wasn’t made available for comment following Tuesday night’s practice and OU coach Bob Stoops would not comment because it is a legal matter.
Balogun’s roommate, linebacker Keenan Clayton, said the middle linebacker hasn’t let the NCAA situation affect his effort since preseason practice began.
“It’s tough to see anyone on this team have to go through something like that,” Clayton said. “There isn’t too much you can say about it, but Mike is keeping his head up and we’re behind him 100 percent.”
