Duke football coach Ted Roof announced Wednesday that sophomore quarterback Zach Asack has been suspended from school and declared ineligible for the 2006 season.
Asack, a Sporting News honorable mention Freshman All-American in 2005, was suspended for violating university academic policy.
"I am on academic suspension for plagiarism," Asack said. "I made a mistake and am remorseful. I take full responsibility for my actions. I wish the team well and look forward to returning next summer. I love it here at Duke."
As a freshman, Asack led the Blue Devils in passing yards with 966, which ranked seventh nationally among rookie quarterbacks. He completed 90-of-180 pass attempts with five touchdowns and eight interceptions. Asack also rushed for an additional 95 yards and two touchdowns and became the first true freshman to start at quarterback for Duke since Steve Slayden in 1984.
"Sometimes great young men make poor decisions and that is that is the case in this situation," Roof said. "While I certainly don't condone his actions, I have been impressed with the manner in which Zack has handled this issue. I fully support Zack and am confident that he will grow in many areas as a result of this situation."
Asack will be eligible to return to the Blue Devils in the summer of 2007.
"When you are part of a family and make an uncharacteristic mistake, you are not kicked out of the family. Zack will remain part of the Duke football family and will be supported by everyone in our program."
Although Asack will be able to return in 2007, Roof also announced Wednesday the dismissal of three other players who will not be eligible to return to Duke.
Senior wide receiver Deon Adams, sophomore safety Andreas Platt, and red-shirt freshman offensive lineman Joe Suder have been dismissed from the program for violation of team regulations.
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