Two weeks ago, Jeff Baca was somewhat hopeful that his being deemed academically ineligible for the 2010 season would be overturned on appeal.
Unfortunately for Baca and UCLA, that hope has been dashed.
According to the Orange County Register, Baca’s appeal has been denied by the NCAA and the junior, who started all thirteen games in 2009 and 21 in his career, will remain academically ineligible for the 2010 season.
“It’s sad,” Baca said. “I’m bummed out for the team. I let them down.”
The loss of Baca means the Bruins will be without three of their projected line starters for the season opener against Kansas State. Center Kai Maiava is out until November at best with a fractured ankle, while right tackle Mike Harris has been suspended for the opener for violating unspecified team rules.
Additionally, defensive end Datone Jones will be sidelined with a broken foot until late October at the earliest.
All in all, it’s far from good news for a UCLA squad hoping to immediately take advantage of the issues facing cross-town rival USC.
