Alabama files appeal

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — The University of Alabama has taken the first step toward appealing a ruling by the NCAA that forced the Crimson Tide football program to vacate 21 wins.

The university said Thursday it has sent a notice of appeal to the NCAA, but won’t contest other sanctions, including three years of probation.

The NCAA placed Alabama’s football program and 15 other sports on probation after 201 athletes were found to have used their scholarships to get free textbooks or other materials they weren’t entitled to.

That group included 22 “intentional wrongdoers,” including seven football players. They obtained more than $100 in supplies for other students.

Alabama is also appealing penalties vacating the individual records of 15 student-athletes in men’s tennis and men’s and women’s track.

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