NCAA Issues Punishment for Starting Iowa DT Amid Sports Gambling Scandal

As the investigation into the Iowa sports gambling scandal continues, the NCAA has suspended starting Hawkeyes defensive tackle Noah Shannon, coach Kirk Ferentz announced Wednesday. The school plans on appealing the NCAA’s ruling.

Shannon has admitted his involvement but has not been charged in the criminal investigation. Two current players—kicker Aaron Blom and wide receiver Jack Johnson—have been charged with tampering with records related to the investigation. They’re suspected of placing wagers on a mobile sports gambling app while under the age of 21 using accounts registered under different people’s names.

“They’re taking their time doing their investigation, and I can’t be mad at them for that,” Shannon said. “I mean, I broke a rule. I owned up to it.”

A fifth-year senior, Shannon has 28 career starts and was an honorable mention on the All-Big Ten team last season. He made 91 tackles over the past two years, with 8.5 tackles for loss in 2022. Shannon was also a member of the team’s player council and was a recipient of the Hayden Fry Award, which is given to players who “show exemplary leadership and dedication throughout the year.”