Jenkins Suspended by BYU

Just months after an impressive freshman season at BYU, running back Ronney Jenkins has been suspended from school for an honor code violation.

The former Hueneme High star may not attend classes during the spring, summer or fall and must apply for readmission in January 1998, administrators said.

The school’s code prohibits a range of behavior including smoking, drinking and premarital sex.

Jenkins could not be reached for comment but said in a published report that he was accused of drinking and smoking a cigar with a teammate.

“That’s not entirely accurate,” said Carri Jenkins, a university spokeswoman.

BYU administrators declined to reveal the exact violation. Nor would they identify the teammate.

However, star cornerback Omarr Morgan was suspended at the same time as Jenkins. Morgan may reapply in the fall and, if accepted, would miss only the first three games of the 1997 season.

Both players must fulfill a list of “terms and conditions,” requirements that usually include counseling sessions with a clergyman or mentor, administrators said.

Jenkins reportedly told Coach Lavell Edwards that he will pursue readmission. The athletic department has, in turn, promised to reinstate his scholarship.

“We’re hoping he can meet the terms that have been spelled out to him,” said Ralph Zobell, sports information director.

Jenkins rushed 128 times for 733 yards and 11 touchdowns last season. He also led the team with 419 kickoff return yards and was named Western Athletic Conference freshman of the year.

But he had trouble adjusting to life away from home. He nearly quit school last fall, feeling lonely on a campus that is overwhelmingly white and Mormon. Only after football season began did his spirits improve.

“Things got better,” Jenkins said in a December interview. “I guess playing more took my mind off just sitting around.”