Oklahoma State Notified of NCAA Violations: Latest Details, Reaction, Analysis

In an investigation prompted by an expose by Sports Illustrated into the conduct of the Oklahoma State football program, the NCAA has determined that the magazine's accusations were unfounded-- but, the Cowboys were notified that the NCAA is looking into three possible Level II violations, which are considered a "significant breach of conduct" under the current violation structure.

Brett McMurphy of ESPN broke the news:

John Helsley of The Oklahoman notes the issues were found during a joint investigation between the school and the NCAA:

Mark Cooper of Tulsa World provides Sports Illustrated's statement following the release of their report:

The NCAA lays out what a Level II violation entails:

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Violations that provide or are intended to provide more than a minimal but less than a substantial or extensive recruiting, competitive or other advantage; includes more than a minimal but less than a substantial or extensive impermissible benefit; or involves conduct that may compromise the integrity of the NCAA collegiate model as set forth in the Constitution and bylaws.

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McMurphy also discussed what the punishment might entail:

Helsley and Berry Tramel of The Oklahoman report the deep dive into the athletics program was done following a five-part series by Sports Illustrated that looked at alleged misconduct at Oklahoma State. It found those claims were "fundamentally unfounded."

The report states that during the process of reviewing those allegations, other potential violations were discovered. They involve a failure to apply the drug policy, improperly organizing a support program and failing to monitor both of those issues.

Also included in the report were comments from athletic director Mike Holder:

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I am pleased that the independent inquiry did not substantiate the primary contentions contained in the Sports Illustrated article. Nevertheless, we take the remaining matters very seriously and will undertake the appropriate actions. As I said last year after I learned about the Sports Illustrated series, we strive to comply with the rules and operate with integrity. We want our loyal fans to be proud of our teams and our athletic program. I appreciate coach (Mike) Gundy and every one of our coaches for their desire to do things the right way.

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As mentioned, the newly announced possible violations are likely to carry minor penalties compared to the potential punishment if the Sports Illustrated reporting was corroborated by the investigation.

No word on when a final decision about penalties for the three Level II violations will be made. The Cowboys are ranked just outside the top 25 in the current polls, and while it's unclear when sanctions will come down, it could likely make recruiting more difficult for Mike Gundy in the future.