LOS ANGELES, July 18 (UPI) -- Southern California Coach Lane Kiffin said Monday he has suspended Marc Tyler for comments the running back made to celebrity news Web site TMZ.
In the video posted Friday, Tyler indicated there was money to be made playing at USC. Asked if he could get paid more at the school or in the pros, Tyler replied, "USC, they breaking bread," gesturing as if he was flipping bills off a stack of money as he spoke. The senior appeared intoxicated while being interviewed in Hollywood.
Kiffin said he was "very disappointed" upon hearing Tyler's comments and suspended him for the Trojans' season-opener Sept. 3 against Minnesota and "potentially further." Tyler also is banned from team activities.
"Although Marc may find this punishment severe, it is imperative we continue to have a high standard for player behavior," Kiffin said. "Marc needs to work hard to show us that he can meet the standards of being a USC football player."
Tyler said he had been joking but apologized "for embarrassing USC, my teammates and coaches."
"I am disappointed that I let down all the people who have supported me as I have been working through some personal issues," he said.
USC's football program is currently being punished by the NCAA, after an investigation revealed former player Reggie Bush received impermissible benefits while at the school. The Trojans vacated all victories from December 2004 to the end of the 2005 season, relinquished a national title and were banned from post-season play for two years.
Bush said in September he would return his 2005 Heisman Trophy.
Tyler was the Trojans' leading rusher last season with 913 yards. He ran for nine touchdowns and caught 17 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown.
