Dean's Blog: OU Commit Spencer Rattler Ruled Ineligible In Arizona

OU QB commit Spencer Rattler – the nation’s No. 1 rated duel-threat QB out of Phoenix Pinnacle – is ineligible and will not play another high school football game, per Phoenix media outlets.

The father of the five-star prospect, Mike Rattler, told the media in Arizona, that his son is ineligible “after violating a district code of conduct policy. There is nothing on his permanent record.”

One primary source, who has covered Rattler since he was a high school freshman, tells me the violation took place over a week ago. Unlike the report that he’d suffered a knee injury and that it would keep him out of last Friday’s nationally televised ESPN game, Rattler’s school violation is the real reason why he didn’t play. 

We could not immediately locate a second source to confirm the nature of the violation. So, we’ll report with certainty, that he’s healthy, that the violation is not of a serious nature -- in terms of Rattler being in danger or putting someone else in danger. It’s an issue somewhat common with prep kids and something that will be taken seriously when he arrives in Norman next summer. 

Rattler, considered the top high school senior quarterback in the nation and the MVP of the Elite 11 at The Opening in Texas this summer, missed the second game of the season because of an ankle injury. But the 6-1, 185 pound senior, did not suffer any knee damage. Rattler committed to Oklahoma before his junior season.

Rattler has been a solid commit to the Sooners for over a year, although we’d reported that he does not plan on enrolling early and entering the QB race in Norman in the spring. We also reported Rattler – a terrific HS hoopster – decided not to play basketball this season, on the team he helped lead to the state title last season. My Arizona source believes Rattler is firm in that he wants to enjoy spring activities the way we all once did. 

Rattler used poor judgement and is paying the price, as are his unbeaten Pinnacle teammates. Rattler’s father reportedly told Arizona media that his son had never been in serious trouble and that he carries a 3.8 GPA. 

Rattler has not signed a letter of intent with Oklahoma. The early signing period begins December 19.