Spurrier: Lattimore Almost Missed 2010 Opener

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — Steve Spurrier told a national radio show Tuesday that the NCAA almost ruled National Freshman of the Year Marcus Lattimore ineligible for his first career game last season. On the Dan Patrick Show, Spurrier said Lattimore almost missed the 2010 season opener against Southern Miss because of a minor NCAA infraction. According to Spurrier, someone bought Lattimore and several other freshman teammates dinner at Outback Steakhouse. Spurrier said USC reported the violation as soon as possible, but Lattimore was not ruled eligible to play until 5:00 p.m. the night of the 7:00 p.m. game against Southern Miss. Lattimore scored 2 touchdowns and had 75 total yards in Carolina’s 41-13 win against Southern Miss.