Before Texas and BYU play on Sept. 7 in Provo, Utah, the Longhorns and Cougars are facing off over the eligibility of junior-college transfer Desmond Harrison.
Harrison is a strong candidate to start at left tackle for coach Mack Brown's Longhorns this season, if he is declared academically eligible to play. At the crux of that determination is an online independent study class Harrison took through BYU to become eligible to transfer to an FBS school, Orangebloods.com reports.
BYU is challenging Harrison's use of that course to do so, citing a 2006 school policy that prevents current NCAA student-athletes from taking such classes.
A BYU spokesperson said its review of Harrison's appeal could be completed in the next two weeks. If it is refused, Texas is planning a potential legal challenge.
But with less than three weeks remaining until Texas opens the season against New Mexico State, the timetable reduces the chances for Harrison to contribute immediately. Harrison cannot practice or work out with the team until his eligibility is decided.
The 6-foot-8, 310-pound Harrison was regarded as one of the top junior-college players in the country coming out of Contra Costa Community College in San Pablo, Calif. Harrison has two seasons of eligibility remaining and can redshirt.
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