Marc Tyler suspended for season opener
USC opens the season Sept.3 against Minnesota at the Coliseum. And while that day is still weeks away, the Trojans are already down one man.
Running back Marc Tyler has been suspended for the team’s first game. Head coach Lane Kiffin explained his decision Monday in a statement:
“I was very disappointed when I learned of Marc Tyler’s inappropriate comments that were captured by the media last week. That is not the way that we expect our players to represent USC and our team.”
The decision comes following an interview Tyler did with TMZ. A video showed him apparently intoxicated and making jokes about how USC paid its athletes. When asked whether they made more money in the pros or at USC, Tyler responded, “USC. They breaking bread.”
In addition, Tyler referred to USC as the “University of Sexual Ballers,” referencing socialite and reality star Kim Kardashian, who previously dated former USC running back Reggie Bush.
“I have consulted with athletic director Pat Haden and I am suspending Marc for our upcoming season opener and potentially further, and in the meantime I am also suspending him from all team activities,” said Kiffin.
Haden released his own statement Monday:
“We have very high expectations for all of our student-athletes at USC. While the vast majority of our student-athletes act appropriately, Marc did not and stepped way out of line. He did not represent himself, his university or his team the way we expect. Marc has a lot to do to prove he belongs on our team. We hope Marc learns from this and comes back a changed and better person.”
The senior tailback showed remorse when responding to his punishment.
“I want to apologize for embarrassing USC, my teammates and coaches. I am disappointed that I let down all the people who have supported me as I have been working through some personal issues. After meeting today with Mr. Haden and Coach Kiffin, I realize how my behavior and my statements, even though I was joking, can reflect poorly on so many people. As a veteran player, I should know that my job is to be an example for the younger guys. I accept my punishment and I regret that I will miss the opening game of my senior year. I am committed to doing everything the right way so that I can be reinstated to the team.”
“Although Marc may find this punishment severe, it is imperative we continue to have a high standard for player behavior,” said Kiffin. “Marc needs to work hard to show us that he can meet the standards of being a USC football player.”
This is not the first time Tyler has been under fire for his off-the-field actions. In April, a female student accused him of spitting on her while he was intoxicated. He was also accused of inappropriately touching another female student at an off-campus bar.
Tyler had 913 rushing yards and nine touchdowns last season. He started eight of the team’s 13 games.
