Judge Sides With Autry

A judge ruled that running back Darnell Autry can take an unpaid movie part this summer in Italy over the objections of the NCAA.

Cook County Circuit Judge Thomas P. Durkin sided with the Northwestern sophomore running back and theater student, who has been offered an unpaid part in two scenes of a supernatural thriller called “The 18th Angel,” scheduled for filming this summer in Italy.

NCAA officials were considering an appeal, and one of Autry’s lawyers, Peter Rush, said there could still be risks if the rushing star accepts the role.

NCAA rules bar athletes from appearing in commercial films. NCAA spokeswoman Kathryn Reith said that if Autry is found in violation, penalties could range from him losing his two years of eligibility to a one-game suspension.