The problem is that the NCAA has gone a lot further than "protecting student athletes." Now some things are good to ensure some level of parity between programs -- limiting scholarships, requiring grades, recruiting timelines, etc. But when they start retraining trade of the athletes is when it gets dicey. Even in the employment context, non-compete agreements can't be over done and are limited by the courts. Like an employee, the benefit of the doubt should go to the athlete and allow them to play. So the rule should be the kid plays unless there is a good reason not to play, rather than the kid doesn't play unless there a good reason he should. Currently, you can't play unless you fall into a few exceptions. And attacks on the NCAA are already happening. They better reform themselves, or they are going be reformed by congress or the courts.