Brian Kelly addresses the John Emery suspension, potential for reversal

Brian Kelly has been singing the praises of LSU running back John Emery, but it was revealed the exciting ball carrier would be forced to miss the Tigers first two games of the season due to an academic suspension stemming from last year.

Upon hearing the news, LSU faithful has been hoping for a possible reversal of the suspension. On Monday, Kelly addressed the situation regarding Emery, as well as a potential for reversal.

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“I’ve spoken on this before, and John’s done everything that would allow him to be in good standing in the football program,” started Kelly. “But you know, I have things that are out of my control, as it relates to who I can play. That’s not something that I can comment on.”

Evidently, Kelly’s hands are tied — the suspension of Emery is out of his control, regardless of how much he wants his running back on the field to begin the season.

Moreover, Florida State is the first game of the suspension, while LSU’s home opener against Southern will be the final game. Emery will return on Sept. 17 for the SEC opener, as Mississippi State comes to Baton Rouge. It will mark the running back’s first appearance in a college football game since the 2020 regular season vs. Florida.

John Emery rushed for 378 yards and three touchdowns on 75 carries throughout the 2020 season. He did not play last season and now, has a scheduled return date. It’s been a long time coming for the LSU back and he will finally get to move past the issues. Football is almost here for Emery.

More on John Emery, LSU Tigers

Continuing, John Emery recently expressed his frustration after the announcement of the suspension. He said hard work has been paying off in the classroom, citing his high GPA. Either way, Emery wants the 2022 season to get started so he can get back on the field as soon as possible.

“It is frustrating after all the hard work I put in during school,” Emery said, via WAFB’s Kevin Batiste. “My GPA is a 3.8 or 9. It’s frustrating but I am going to keep going. I won’t let it stop me.

“No matter what I go through, I still have the opportunity. I have 10 games I can play in so I am just ready for the season to start.”

On3’s Griffin McVeigh contributed to this article.