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"If we had known, myself, [Ohio State athletic director] Gene [Smith] and the NCAA all would have handled it a little bit differently," Delany said before departing BCS meetings Thursday.

Delany appealed along with the school for the five players, including star quarterback Terrelle Pryor, to be considered for participation in the Sugar Bowl. A little-known rule loophole allowed the players' five-game suspensions to be deferred.