THE STORY
In February 1987, the NCAA imposed severe sanctions on Southern Methodist University's football program for repeated violations, including cash payments totaling $61,000 to 13 players over two years. The penalties included canceling the 1987 season, limiting the 1988 season to seven away games, and extending probation until 1990. SMU voluntarily canceled the 1988 season, effectively suspending the program for two consecutive years.
TEAMS / PEOPLE:
SMU Football
WHY IT MATTERS
This unprecedented action, known as the "death penalty," led to a significant decline in SMU's football performance, with the program not returning to a bowl game until 2009 and not winning a conference title until 2023.