Facing Felony Charges, Court Orders Georgia Tech DB Reinstated

A Foulton county judge ordered Georgia Tech defensive back Reuben Houston to be reinstated in the football program even though he had been suspended for the season by the team due pending felony drug charges.

Houston, a two-year starter and potential all-star candidate, faces charges for conspiring to possess and distribute about 100 pounds of marijuana. He was suspended by the school for violating the student-athlete code of conduct.

The stunned Georgia Tech athletic director, Dave Braine, fears this decision will send shockwaves throughout other college football programs. Braine maintains that playing football, especially at a division-I school is a privilege, not a right. However, the athletic director intends to abide by the court ruling.

Read Sports Illustrated's article