Florida Gators
Hurricane Classic - Day 2
Answers to some questions people have about Gators QB Will Grier
Tuesday, October 13, 2015 | Football, Scott Carter
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The news Monday afternoon that Gators quarterback Will Grier was suspended indefinitely for the use of a substance banned by the NCAA sent shockwaves across Gator Nation and college football.
Grier has helped the No. 8-ranked Gators (6-0, 4-0 SEC) get off to a stunning start entering Saturday's showdown at No. 6 LSU (5-0, 3-0). Sophomore Treon Harris will take over as Florida's starting quarterback in Grier's absence.
As is often the case in the fast-paced digital age, a lot of innuendo and misinformation erupted on social media in the wake of the Grier news.
Here is an attempt to clear up some of the misinformation and perhaps answer questions you have in regard to Grier's suspension:
How long is Grier suspended?
The penalty for a positive NCAA-administered test for performance-enhancing drugs is the loss of one full year of competition.
Is the drug Grier tested positive for Ligandrol?
No. Despite various reports stating otherwise, Ligandrol, classified as a performance-enhancer by the NCAA, is not the banned substance Grier took.
Can Grier appeal the suspension?
Yes. Student-athletes can appeal the result and, if ruled in their favor, either have the sanction reduced or eliminated.
Can Grier practice with the team while suspended?
Yes. He can continue to practice with the team and participate in workouts, but Grier is ineligible to travel as part of the team.
Has Grier gained more than 40 pounds since he arrived at UF as reported widely on social media Monday?
No. When Grier enrolled at UF in January 2014 and took his first physical, his official height and weight was 6-foot-2, 183 pounds. In August 2015, Grier checked in at 6-2, 203 pounds.
How often does the NCAA drug test student-athletes?
The NCAA randomly drug tests student-athletes for performance-enhancing drugs usually once or twice a year. Per University Athletic Association policy, UF student-athletes are drug tested at least once each semester they are enrolled.
Editor's note: As information becomes available, we will add questions and answers that may be pertinent.
