Auburn Football: NCAA Finding No Major Violations Equals Vindication for Tigers

The Auburn Tigers can rest easy now because the NCAA has ended its extensive investigation regarding Cam Newton and other pay-for-play allegations. 

Let the conspiracy theories come to an end because after interviewing several people, the NCAA was unable to find enough evidence that Auburn committed major violations.

Here is a part of the statement released by the NCAA Wednesday: 

"

After conducting more than 80 interviews, the NCAA has concluded its investigation into Auburn University. The NCAA enforcement staff is committed to a fair and thorough investigative process.

As such, any allegations of major rules violations must meet a burden of proof, which is a higher standard than rampant public speculation online and in the media. The allegations must be based on credible and persuasive information and includes a good-faith belief that the Committee on Infractions could make a finding.  

"

Of course, there will still be the naysayers and non-believers that refuse to accept this, which is just pathetic. 

The investigation is over and college football fans need to move on, but, unfortunately, there will be those who will always think Newton and others were paid to play at Auburn, and that the Tigers' national championship from the 2010 season is tainted. 

The reason there will still be doubters is because, according to an ESPN report, "the NCAA added that the case could be reopened if any new evidence pops up, but it looks like this saga is finally over." 

Just stating that the case could be re-visited should new information come to life gives the conspiracy theorists a glimmer of hope. 

However, it's best to just let it all go, and if something does come up in the future, so be it. The NCAA tried and it couldn't obtain any proof. What's done is done, and now it's time to let things go.

Auburn certainly feels that way, and now Tigers fans are relieved that the cloud hanging over their recent national championship has vanished.  

Tigers' head coach Gene Chizik told reporters he knew Auburn would be fine because they run a great program.  "As I've said many times, I feel very confident about the way we run this program," Chizik said via Sports Illustrated. "I've said many times that we haven't done anything wrong, so quite frankly I moved on a long time ago."

Whether you like the Tigers or not, it's time to move past the so-called scandal and let the Tigers relish in this moment. 

However, Tigers fans shouldn't rejoice on this for too long, nor should they bash those who hated on them all last season. Be the bigger person and take the high road here.

After all, Auburn is the defending national champion, so fans have that going for them. Plus, the team is No. 24 in the nation and should win this weekend against Florida. 

Auburn fans can justify their championship now that the investigation is over, but don't make this the highlight of the season because it's time to get back down to business and focus on the 2011 season.