NCAA Takes 2nd look at OU Linebacker Mike Balogun's Case

Oklahoma linebacker Mike Balogun will try to settle his eligibility issues out of court.

Monday, August 24th 2009, 3:18 pm

By: News 9


By Gan Matthews, NEWS 9

NORMAN, Oklahoma -- With less than two weeks before the Sooners' first game, OU linebacker Mike Balogun knows he's running out of time if he wants the NCAA to restore his eligibility. He's filed a lawsuit, but his best bet may be negotiations out of court.

Mike Balogun, his attorneys and attorneys for the NCAA were supposed to appear in court this afternoon. But the hearing was cancelled so both sides could try to work out a resolution out of court.

The NCAA has decertified Balogun's eligibility to play for OU over allegations he played semi-pro ball after he turned 21.

Balogun's attorney believes the NCAA will examine and decide about the evidence he has assembled before OU's first game.

"I think uniformly they conclusively show that Mike Balogun did not participate in these leagues in playing a game past the age of 21," Balogun's attorney said.

For now Balogun's attorney won't pursue an injunction out of concern the NCAA could impose sanctions--including forfeitures--against OU if Balogun plays and the injunction is later overturned.

OU fans are aware of the Balogun matter.

"I think he should be cleared to play," OU student Shawn McDavid said. "You know, he was with the team all summer long. I think he deserves a chance."

"I'm not too worried about it," OU student C.R. Reed said. "I mean, we've got a good defense all around him, and we got plenty of people who can step up and play."

And how is Mike Balogun handling the situation?

"He'd like to finish out on top and do well, not only for himself, but also as a major contribution to the defense," Glass said.

Currently, OU is permitting Balogun to work out every day on the practice field. But the important question is will Mike Balogun be on the field at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington on September 5? For now, OU has no answer to that. And Mike Balogun hopes for an answer soon.

Balogun's attorney may still pursue an injunction if the NCAA fails to restore the OU senior's eligibility.

More on News9.com:

OU's Balogun Sues NCAA

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