Indiana St. coach suspended, but win not forfeited

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. – Indiana State’s losing streak will stay snapped.

The NCAA suspended Sycamores football coach Lou West for one game next season and fined the school $1,500 for using an ineligible player in three games this year.

The ruling lets Indiana State keep the Oct. 21 victory over Missouri State that broke what had been the longest Division I losing streak at 24 games.

Indiana State will not appeal the NCAA penalties, athletic director Ron Prettyman said Friday.

“We understand the rulings of the NCAA and will abide by the penalties,” he said.

The name of the player, who had not been certified as eligible, was not released. He played in three games for the Sycamores, and the violation was later reported by the university to the NCAA.

After the 28-22 win against Missouri State, West’s first in two seasons as the coach, the Sycamores lost their last two games to finish 1-10.