News is breaking all over Twitter, from reliable sources, that the NCAA has opened an investigation into Auburn quarterback Cameron Newton receiving illegal benefits. This is a story of much interest to Mississippi State because we were seen as a serious contender for the former Florida QB. Former MSU QB John Bond says he was contacted by a former teammate seeking cash for the promise of Newton's letter of intent. Here is the statement Bond released to The Clarion Ledger via an attorney.
"During the 2009 football season, I was contacted by a former football teammate, who represented to me that he was speaking for the Newton camp. He told me that Cam Newton wanted to play at Mississippi State, but that a specified payment would have to be made. I reported the conversation to the Mississippi State Athletic Department. I was told by the Athletic Department that Mississippi State would not respond to the overture that was made to me, and that Mississippi State would continue to recruit Cam Newton as it does any other football recruit."
Pat Forde already has a lengthy article on ESPN.com with even more details.
It will definitely be interesting to see how this all plays out. Mississippi State fans on message boards across the internet have claimed since last summer (2009) that Cam basically went to the highest bidder.
Stay tuned for more.