Pryor, four other Buckeyes suspended

Published Dec. 23, 2010 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

The NCAA has suspended Ohio State quarterback Terrelle Pryor and four of his teammates for five games in 2011, the university and the governing body for college athletics announced Thursday. Another player will sit one game.

All will be eligible for the Buckeyes' appearance in the Jan. 4 Sugar Bowl against Arkansas.

Pryor, offensive lineman Mike Adams, running back Dan "Boom" Herron, wide receiver DeVier Posey and defensive lineman Solomon Thomas, all juniors, received the five-game suspensions. Freshman linebacker Jordan Whiting will sit one game.

Ohio State will appeal the suspensions to the NCAA and attempt to reduce the suspensions. The appeal will begin next week.

In addition, the players must pay restitution that will go to charitable organizations.

"These young men went into these decisions with the right intent, to help their families," Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith said.

Ohio State initially suspended the players for the Sugar Bowl, but the NCAA immediately reinstated the players for the bowl game.

The Buckeyes came under scrutiny when reports surfaced earlier this week that several players might have received improper benefits in the form of free tattoos at a Columbus parlor. The story quickly gained steam, and Ohio State launched an internal investigation.

If the suspensions are not overturned, the players will sit out games against Akron, Toledo, Miami (Fla.) Colorado and Michigan State.

Herron must repay $1,150 for selling his football jersey, pants and shoes for $1,000 and receiving discounted services worth $150.

Posey must repay $1,250 for selling his 2008 Big Ten championship ring for $1,200 and receiving discounted services worth $50.

Pryor had announced he would return to Ohio State for his senior season, but the five-game suspension might now make the NFL a more appealing option.