NCAA denies Stripling’s appeal

PULLMAN – The Washington State Cougars got some bad news Thursday when Jason Stripling’s appeal was denied by the NCAA.

Stripling, a reserve outside linebacker, had appealed his academic ineligibility imposed because of lack of progress toward a degree.

He cited extenuating circumstances including rehabilitation from surgery and family illness. But the NCAA committee on academic eligibility ruled against him.

The sophomore was backing up weakside linebacker Kendrick Dunn, having moved to the No. 2 spot after Alex Hamill suffered a stress fracture in his right foot.

If the need arises, the Cougars will move strongside linebacker Cory Evans to the weakside and use Andy Mattingly in Evans’ spot, coach Bill Doba said. Also, Doba said walk-on Brady Emmons could play the weakside spot.

“I can’t win that one,” is all Doba would say when asked his feelings about the decision.