Head coach June Jones said it would be "accurate and fair" to report that Cox is no longer on the team, but that he will remain on scholarship as long as he is in good academic standing.

Jones declined further comment.

But people familiar with the situation said Cox violated Jones' three-strike rule involving missed classes, meetings or assignments.

Cox, a third-year sophomore from Richmond, Calif., played in five games this season, rushing four times for nine yards and catching two passes for 15 yards.