Story perspectives

SEC to contest Louisiana restraining order blocking LSU penalties

8/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

SEC and Commissioner Greg Sankey will contest a Louisiana restraining order Thursday morning.
Judge William Jorden blocked the SEC from enforcing penalties including half-season coach suspensions and 50% fines.
LSU abstained from the 15-0 vote on the penalties.
LSU could roster three former NFL players, including Jack Pyburn, Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris.
The SEC will argue the restraining order at a September 3 hearing in Baton Rouge before LSU’s opener.

History

Historical Context

After the NCAA imposed its only modern-era death penalty on Southern Methodist University in 1987, shutting down football for two seasons, the association became wary of repeat bans. That caution underlies today’s dispute, where the NCAA’s attempt to fine and suspend LSU faces legal challenges that could reshape enforcement. The SMU case remains the sole example of a three-time death-penalty precedent.

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Story summary

SEC and Commissioner Greg Sankey will contest a Louisiana restraining order Thursday morning.
Judge William Jorden blocked the SEC from enforcing penalties including half-season coach suspensions and 50% fines.
LSU abstained from the 15-0 vote on the penalties.
LSU could roster three former NFL players, including Jack Pyburn, Dae’Quan Wright and Zxavian Harris.
The SEC will argue the restraining order at a September 3 hearing in Baton Rouge before LSU’s opener.

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