Former Montana head coach Robin Pflugrad, now a Weber State assistant coach and offensive coordinator, will serve a one-game suspension after receiving a show-cause penalty by the NCAA, which found Pflugrad had failed to monitor the Montana football program.
The NCAA reported that Pflugrad allowed boosters to provide benefits to players, including bail money and free legal representation for two athletes. Pflugrad will serve his suspension for the season opener against Stephen F. Austin. As part of the penalty, he will not be allowed to conduct any coaching activities beginning Aug. 26 through the conclusion of the game on Aug. 31.
"The [Weber State] administration, coaches and staff of Weber State University are strongly committed to upholding NCAA rules with the highest degree of integrity," said WSU athletics director Jerry Bovee. "Robin Pflugrad has been a positive addition to the Weber State University football coaching staff and has been forthcoming and cooperative in addressing issues related to his employment as head coach at the University of Montana."
Bovee said the school was aware of the possible sanctions.
"Coach Pflugrad has cooperated fully with the NCAA and accepts the imposed sanctions and is now looking forward to having this matter behind him so that he can assist Coach Sears and our staff in building a successful football program at Weber State," Bovee said.
WSU associate head coach Steve Morton will serve as offensive coordinator for the Wildcats during the first week of the season.
According to the NCAA, other player perks provided by boosters included free meals, clothing, lodging and transportation.
The penalties to Montana announced Friday include a three-year probation period, the loss of four scholarships for the next three seasons and the loss of five wins, including two playoff victories. The NCAA says ineligible student-athletes participated in those games by virtue of receiving disallowed help with their legal problems.