Neuheisel cooperating in investigation

For months, the NCAA has been investigating the University of Colorado's alleged "lack of institutional control" and a horde of secondary recruiting violations during Rick Neuheisel's tenure as head football coach from 1995 to 1998. Thus far, Neuheisel has been cooperative with both the NCAA and Colorado throughout the investigation, according to Jim Daves, UW assistant athletic director for media relations.

"I have nothing to hide," Neuheisel told The Seattle Times. "I thought I left Colorado a long time ago. Hopefully, we can put this behind."

Colorado has until June 27 to officially respond to the NCAA's allegations. An official hearing has been set for mid-August and will give the association the chance to formally present its list of charges. It will also give Colorado an opportunity to present its case.

While the NCAA was reached for comment, it will not issue any on the continuing investigation.

The allegations include visits by the Colorado coaching staff to 25 potential recruits outside of legitimate contact periods. Neuheisel is accused of improper use of a private jet for recruitment purposes, as well as failure to recover CU athletic apparel.

The secondary violations alone would not garner disciplinary action against Colorado. However, a series of secondary violations strung together could be viewed as a major one and result in harsh penalties.

Although the NCAA has a policy of penalizing institutions and not individuals, the UW is highly unlikely to feel any serious repercussions. If Neuheisel is deemed irresponsible, the UW will be forced to prove why his duties as coach of the Huskies should not be limited. Colorado, on the other hand, could face severe penalties, including scholarship losses and possibly probation.

None of the allegations are directly linked to Neuheisel or the UW. All of the allegations are against Colorado, some of which involve Neuheisel.

Shortly after coming to Washington in 1999, Neuheisel was the subject of another NCAA investigation. This one accused Neuheisel and his coaches of visiting the homes of recruits during a "quiet period" and making improper calls to former players at Colorado. Washington was sanctioned with limitations during last season's contact periods.