LSU has become the first SEC school to test the limits of a controversial eligibility fight that has spilled from the courtroom onto the field.
Tigers soccer players Jazmin Ferguson and Jocelyn Ollivierre eneterd Sunday’s match against Arizona in the 21st minute. The senior defenders are the first SEC athletes to compete under a temporary restraining order issued by a Louisiana judge that granted an additional year of eligibility to 42 athletes from the high school class of 2022.
The SEC had previously threatened schools with severe penalties for playing athletes granted eligibility through the court order, including significant fines and potential multi-game suspensions for coaches. The conference has since conceded it will comply with the Louisiana court’s ruling, clearing the way for Ferguson, Ollivierre—and potentially dozens of others—to compete.
The pair had already exhausted their four seasons of collegiate eligibility before becoming among the athletes covered by the court order.
WHAT IT MEANS FOR LSU FOOTBALL
While Ferguson and Ollivierre are the first SEC athletes to take advantage of the court order, the most significant implications of the case could ultimately be felt on the football field.
Former LSU defensive end Jack Pyburn is among the plaintiffs covered by the temporary restraining order. Pyburn spent the offseason with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and participated in the team’s training camp before seeking an additional season of college eligibility.
Three other players named in the lawsuit have already committed to LSU.
Former Notre Dame defensive end Junior Tuihalamaka is not only committed to the Tigers, but LouisianaSports.net reported that he is currently practicing with the team in hopes of playing this season under the court order.
Former Ole Miss players Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris have also committed to LSU and are seeking to play for the Tigers this season. Wright, a tight end, and Harris, a defensive tackle, would provide veteran additions to LSU’s roster just days before the season opener.
LouisianaSports.net has also reported that former Utah cornerback Blake Cotton is among the players granted temporary eligibility and is expected to join LSU. Cotton has yet to suit up for the Tigers.
That makes Thursday’s court hearing in Baton Rouge particularly significant for Lane Kiffin and LSU.
The temporary restraining order provides only short-term relief. At Thursday’s hearing, a judge will consider whether to grant the players a preliminary injunction that could allow them to continue competing while the case proceeds. The NCAA will also have its opportunity to argue against the players’ eligibility.
Two days later, LSU opens its season against Clemson.
Ferguson and Ollivierre’s appearance Sunday provided the first real-world test of the SEC’s response to the Louisiana court order. Thursday’s ruling could determine whether LSU’s newest football additions get the opportunity to follow them onto the field.
