SEC says it can expel LSU as legal battle over Tigers’ roster escalates

The SEC dared LSU to play what it considers ineligible players before the Tigers' season opener.

Now, the conference is making clear just how seriously it views the dispute.

In an amended complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, the SEC argues it has the authority to remove LSU from the conference it helped found in 1933.

This request for a temporary restraining order also seeks to protect the SEC's Thursday, Sept. 10, meeting to vote on the future of LSU's residency in the league. The request for TRO also specifically included State of Louisiana Attorney General Elizabeth B. Murrill among the plaintiffs, who also include LSU President Wade Rousse, Athletics Director Verge Ausberry and Lane Kiffin, LSU's head football coach.

The filing cites the SEC Constitution, which grants the conference's chief executive officers "plenary power and authority with respect to all affairs of the Conference of any type or nature whatsoever," including the authority to take actions outlined in Article 3 at their "sole discretion."

Put simply: The SEC is laying out a path that could lead to LSU's expulsion from the conference.

USA TODAY Sports has reached out to LSU athletics for…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/sports/