Why wait? Forfeit games now

The University should voluntarily forfeit the games Marrow played inimmediately. Although many questions still surround the strange circumstances of the case, one fact is undisputable -- Marrow was ineligible this season. The University's internal investigation is necessary to determine whether there were any improprieties. But it is clear that Marrow was only registered for two classes, making him a part-time student and therefore ineligible to compete in an NCAA sport. Forfeiting the games before the Ivy League or NCAA offices step in will send a strong message that Penn does not compromise academics for athletics. Not only will such a dramatic action symbolize the University's commitment to the concept of the student-athlete, it may also encourage leniency from the Ivy League and the NCAA. Penn happens to be in a relatively safe position compared to the Nebraskas and Miamis of college football. There are no scholarships to be lost and no postseason bowls to be banned from. This would also be Penn's first offense. Regardless, Penn was breaking the rules by sending Marrow out to his right tackle position in eight of 10 games. The team should own up to that mistake. In the grand scheme of things, forfeiting five wins in a 6-4 season that was merely mediocre anyway is not that big of a loss. The alternative -- the loss of respect for Penn as a breeding ground for true scholar-athletes -- would be devastating. It is encouraging that the University correctly kept all members of the Athletic Department off of the internal investigation committee. The forfeiture of the five tainted wins would be another step in the right direction.