Joe Burrow became “Joe Cool” after smoking a cigar on the back of winning a National Championship for LSU in 2019. He faced no punishment for it, though he’s since revealed he nearly got arrested because smoking isn’t allowed at the Superdome.
Tony Annese isn’t so lucky after having led Ferris State to the Division II national title as he has been hit with a one-game suspension by the NCAA after two of his players lit cigars in a smoke-free locker room during their title celebrations in December, per ESPN.
The two players were not identified by the NCAA.
Annese, meanwhile, will serve the suspension whenever Ferris State gets to the playoffs again. Speaking in a statement on Thursday, the head coach noted having reminded his players prior to the game that smoking would not be allowed.
“No matter how minor the actions may seem, young people need to understand that there are consequences for their actions,” he said. “We will address these concerns and continue to have a strong, positive football program that represents Ferris State University on and off the field.”
This wasn’t a first for the program either. Bulldogs players lit cigars inside the stadium after winning the school’s first national title in 2021. Ferris State was fined and warned not to repeat its actions.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NCAA stories via Google! Follow Us
“The inappropriate conduct associated with this action will not be tolerated at any NCAA Division II championship,” a statement from Mountain East Conference commissioner Reid Amos reads.
The school took steps to have the suspension reversed but its appeal was denied. They have also been fined $2,500, as well as $15,383 for cleaning and repairs after leaving the Colorado School of Mines locker rooms a mess.
