Lincoln College Prep was on a roll. After a 20-0 shutout loss to Cameron to open the season, the Blue Tigers had won six games in a row.
But disaster struck this week. Lincoln used an ineligible player in four games this season, according to the Missouri State High School Activities Association.
The school self-reported the use of an ineligible player, MSHSAA officials confirmed Friday. As a result, Lincoln forfeited four wins, according to a letter school officials sent to parents of Lincoln students to address the situation.
The ruling will not affect the Blue Tigers' playoff hopes, officials wrote.
"It has come to our attention that during this academic year, a sub-varsity restricted player participated in several Varsity games in a limited capacity," officials wrote. "Upon discovering this situation, LCPA immediately undertook a thorough internal review to assess the circumstances surrounding the restricted player's participation.
"It was determined that a misinterpretation of the term 'sub-varsity' was the cause of this misstep. We take full responsibility for this oversight and sincerely regret any concerns it may have caused."
The letter continued: "We will adhere to vacating the five games deemed necessary by MSHSAA. Although games are being forfeited, it will not diminish their opportunity for post-season play."
On the field, Southeast, Lincoln's opponent in the latest DiPasquale Moore/PrepsKC Metro Game of the Week, hasn't fared as well. The Knights, in its first year of a co-op with Kansas City Central, have only one win in six tries this season.
In Week 5, Southeast earned a 21-12 victory over winless Northeast. This matchup has the makings of a trap game for Lincoln.
But the Blue Tigers, under first-year head coach Marcus Crosdale, are a battle-tested bunch with much more depth, skill and talent than the Knights.
In seven games, the Blue Tigers have beaten four teams at or above a .500 winning percentage. Lincoln averages around 28 points per game while giving up just 16 ppg.
Southeast averages less than 15 ppg while yielding 45 ppg on defense.
Will MSHSAA's pending ruling affect Lincoln's focus against Southeast? Those in and around the Lincoln program believe the product on the field still stands.
"This situation does not diminish our confidence in their potential nor the reality of their ability to compete and be victorious at a high level," Lincoln officials wrote in its letter to parents. "We thank our school community, parents, and supporters for their continued understanding and unwavering support.
"We stand behind our coaches and our players. We are committed to taking every measure necessary to ensure that this situation is rectified and that we emerge from it as a stronger and more knowledgeable institution."
