Days after Jackson State’s convincing 41-3 shellacking of Arkansas Pine Bluff on November 2, speculation of chicanery surrounding the game began to swirl.
Initially reported by OffScript, the issue stems from unauthorized access to UAPB practice footage.
A subsequent ESPN report corroborated that of Scottay’s , indicating that a UAPB indicated to a member of the Pine Bluff coaching staff that he’d been informed by a Jackson State player that JSU defensive player at the team’s facility were watching film of UAPB’s practices from that week.
Tuesday the SWAC released a statement regarding its investigation into the matter and their findings:
“On Friday, November 8th the Southwestern Athletic Conference was made aware of allegations regarding the potential unauthorized usage of practice film.
After conducting a comprehensive review of the information received, which included an IT analysis provided by DVSport INC, both oral and written statements, written statements from both institutions, individual interviews, along with the consultation of legal counsel, the Conference Office does not have enough substantial evidence to prove any allegations of unethical conduct by Jackson State University.
The Southwestern Athletic Conference has officially concluded its investigation but reserves the right to review any additional information received on this matter.
The Southwestern Athletic Conference upholds an extremely high standard of integrity with all aspects related to athletic competition and we will continue to take proactive steps to ensure fair competition within all sponsored sports.”
Jackson State is set to take on Southern University in the SWAC Championship December 7. The winner mcoves on to face South Carolina State in the Celebration Bowl December 14.
