Northridge Learns Comer Might Be Ruled Ineligible

NORTHRIDGE —  As if injuries weren’t enough, an eligibility question could deny the Cal State Northridge football team one of its top receivers.

Senior Brian Comer, a transfer from Cal, learned late Monday that he might be ineligible because of a possible violation of NCAA double-transfer rules.

“It’s stop all the presses until we find out,” Coach Jim Fenwick said. “An appeals process started today [with] the NCAA.”

Comer, who leads the Matadors (2-3, 0-1 in Big Sky conference play) with 40 receptions for 476 yards and six touchdowns, skipped practice Tuesday.

His status became doubtful when a Northridge compliance officer running a final eligibility check discovered that Comer attended San Diego State in the spring of 1993 before transferring to Valley College in the fall, to Cal in 1995 and to Northridge this year.

Fenwick said NCAA rules prohibit student-athletes from transferring to two four-year schools. Comer used a redshirt year at Cal in 1995 and graduated from the university last year. He paid his way at San Diego State after graduating from Chatsworth High in 1992.

Until he receives word from the NCAA, Fenwick said he doesn’t know if the Matadors will have to forfeit their two victories.

“I’m disappointed now and I would be super disappointed if he couldn’t play [any longer],” Fenwick said.

The Matadors play host to Weber State on Saturday night.