I’m not going to pretend I know all the nuances of what went into this decision. Who knows, maybe JJ was given a choice and actually chose this game for his suspension. Then again, I think it’s safe to assume that this was not the case.

Everyone who is disagreeing with the OP have made correct assertions…”it’s not Bronco’s fault,” “JJ knew the consequences,” “better against UConn then Texas”,” justice knows no timetable”, “rules are rules,” “Savannah State would have sent a strong message,” etc. These are all true statements and we all agree.

However, the question some of us are really asking is could an alternative decision still have been made that would be in line with all the above statements, yet also show some compassion? Is it not required that a good leader balance justice with mercy/compassion?

Rules are rules, but are we focusing too much on the letter of the law and disregarding the spirit of the law here? Does Bronco not have the flexibility to make an exception every now and then when the circumstances dictate it? Some of you remind me of the Pharisees who wanted to stone the woman for breaking the law.

If in fact this game meant more than anything to JJ in all his years playing for the Y, should that not have been a factor? Has he not built up enough goodwill during his time in Provo to be allowed this once in a lifetime opportunity to play a collegiate game in front of family and friends? And what about his family? Don’t we emphasize family? Could we not allow this one exception at least for his family, those who can not afford to travel across the country to see their son, nephew, grandson, cousin or friend play major college football?

I think that a different decision could have been made that would have been both just and merciful. Allow him to play in this game and suspend him for Texas next week, do not suspend him for a patsy. I’m pretty sure he would love to play against Texas in Austin . In this case, the punishment might fit the crime. ON the other hand, suspending him against UConn might have the unintended consequence of him suffering much more than the other players who were suspended for this game.

Again, I am fine with suspending everyone else for the first game and consistently applying consequences. But I also believe that every now and then, unique circumstances necessitate unique exceptions.