It seems Washington will be in the game, we'll need him. Story doesn't give all the details but I trust Tressel to make the right call.
Washington can play in title game
Starter was facing suspension, sources say
Saturday, December 29, 2007 3:06 AM
By Ken Gordon
THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Ohio State athletic director Gene Smith yesterday said cornerback Donald Washington is eligible to play in the national championship game, ending Washington's nine days in limbo.
Smith would not comment further. Football sports information director Shelly Poe said Washington and coach Jim Tressel would not comment, either.
Based on accounts from multiple team sources, Washington and Eugene Clifford last week faced possible suspensions for violating an unspecified team rule.
Before leaving for a six-day holiday break Dec. 20, players were told that it appeared the Buckeyes would be without Washington and Clifford on Jan. 7 against Louisiana State.
The university announced Clifford's suspension Dec. 21.
Washington, however, appealed. The appeals process included Washington meeting with Smith, Tressel and other officials and presenting his case, sources told The Dispatch.
Whatever Washington presented persuaded the group, and he was not suspended. He has been practicing with the team since bowl preparations resumed Wednesday.
The team heads to New Orleans on Wednesday.
Clifford is a freshman defensive back from Cincinnati who played in four games.
Washington, a sophomore from Indianapolis, is a key player who started all 12 games and had a fine season, with 34 tackles and an interception returned for a touchdown.
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