NEWTON, Mass. — Boston College suspended 13 football players Wednesday for gambling, including two who allegedly bet against their school last month in a game against Syracuse.
Thomas Reilly, the Middlesex County district attorney, said the two players did not influence the outcome of the game, which Syracuse won, 45-17. Although the two players were not identified, Reilly said one did not play in the game and the other played on special teams.
"They realize that there are rules. They realize that they made a mistake," Reilly said. "And they realize that there are consequences for their mistakes and they will be held accountable."
Gambling on professional or college sporting events is against NCAA rules.
The suspended players include starting tight end Scott Dragos and linebacker Brian Maye, who had been a starter before he dislocated his elbow against Syracuse.
Other suspended players were identified as running back Jamall Anderson, offensive lineman Marcus Bembry, defensive back Paul Cary, defensive linemen John Coleman and Dan Collins, wide receivers Chris Cosenza, Steve Everson and Brandon King, center Kyle Geiselman, linebacker Jermaine Monk, and tight end Rob Tardio.
The list does not differentiate between those who bet from $25 to $1,000 on the World Series, college football or pro football and the two who placed $200 and $250 on Syracuse, giving 13 points against their own team Oct. 26.
Coach Dan Henning said the two players who bet against the school would not be allowed back on the team.
The others will sit out Saturday's game against No. 17 Notre Dame, but could apply to the NCAA for reinstatement.
"We want every player on our team this weekend to be those that are interested in winning the football game," Henning said.
Boston College was at the center of a point-shaving scandal in 1982 when Rick Kuhn was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for his role in fixing six basketball games during the 1978-79 season.
Athletic Director Chet Gladchuk did not comment about whether the school would rescind the scholarships or take further action against the athletes. But he said that question arises "any time a student athlete renders himself ineligible."
Reilly said no criminal charges were planned, but he left the option open as his investigation continues.
