KNOXVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee quarterback Jim Bob Cooter was suspended indefinitely Monday after campus police arrested him on a drunken-driving charge.
Coach Philip Fulmer cited a violation of team rules. He said Cooter will miss the season opener Sept. 2 against California and undergo an alcohol evaluation before he can return.
"Jim Bob has let the team down and embarrassed himself and his family by his actions," Fulmer said. "He has benefited greatly by being part of the Tennessee family, and with that comes great responsibility for his actions."
Cooter was arrested Saturday after campus officers noticed a sports utility vehicle crossing the center line and driving on the wrong side of the street, according to a campus police report. Cooter failed three field sobriety tests.
The quarterback was charged with first offense driving under the influence, the report said. A female passenger was charged with underage consumption of alcohol.
"He did not behave in a responsible manner, and he understands very clearly that even though this is his first offense, there will be consequences," Fulmer said.
Cooter earned his bachelor's degree in May but is to play as a graduate student this fall. He did not attempt a pass in 2005 and made late appearances in one game each in 2003 and 2004 after redshirting in 2002.
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