Urban Meyer has lost trust with the 'powerless' NCAA

Urban Meyer believes the NCAA is losing its grip on college athletics enforcement following a wave of court decisions that have challenged the organization’s authority.

During the latest “The Triple Option” podcast, Meyer said the NCAA has repeatedly failed to defend its rulings in court as college athletes increasingly seek injunctions in state courts to extend eligibility.

“They litigate, they go to court and they lose,” Meyer said. “There is some empathy to understand they don’t have subpoena power. They’re a powerless organization right now.”

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss secured a Mississippi injunction granting him a sixth season after the NCAA denied his waiver request. However, his situation was unique and the college authority was warned about trying to take any case to court. Given the history, the loss was expected. 

The NCAA hasn't lost every court battle. An Alabama court revoked eligibility for basketball center Charles Bediako, and a Knoxville judge denied Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar a preliminary injunction. In both cases, there was a clear advantage that didn't need to be applied. 

Meyer, who won national titles at Florida and Ohio State, also addressed potential federal involvement in regulating name, image and likeness and eligibility issues. Earlier this month, Meyer reportedly golfed with Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and former Alabama coach Nick Saban. The four discussed the future of college sports governance.

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Though Meyer acknowledged bipartisan interest in reform, he expressed skepticism about federal oversight. “The federal government, to me, can’t get out of its own way,” Meyer said.

Meyer was recently inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame after notching a 85.4% winning percentage and won three national championships during a career celebrated in the modern game.

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