The former walk-on freshman starter at Texas Tech had his appeal for immediate eligiblity denied by the NCAA earlier this week, only to learn a day later that the Sooners received an NCAA waiver that will allow them to distribute 86 scholarships for the 2014 season -- and grant one of them to Mayfield:
OU Athletics Statement on QB Baker Mayfield pic.twitter.com/k7bdDSFGcQ
— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) September 30, 2014
Despite Mayfield's walk-on status, Texas Tech controversially would not grant his release to the Sooners initially, leading to confusion about both his possible 2014 eligiblity and ability to receive a scholarship. It also led to Mayfield's father taking a shot at Kliff Kingsbury earlier this week.
“The driver and the scoundrel behind all this is Kliff,” James Mayfield told the Oklahoman. “He is so focused or hellbent on punishing Baker.”
Though Texas Tech dropped its objection over Mayfield's ability to go on scholarship in August, NCAA and Big 12 rules require the 2013 Big 12 Freshman of the Year to lose a season of eligiblity while sitting out his transfer year. The Mayfields are reportedly appealing to have that season restored as well.
Mayfield started the 2013 season opener for Kingsbury's Red Raiders and wound up throwing for 2,315 yards and 12 touchdowns despite battling injury problems. He elected to transfer in December, reportedly over concerns about his starting job and scholarship status.
