NCAA denies Lyman sixth season

CONTRA COSTA TIMES
The NCAA on Thursday turned down the appeal by Cal wide receiver Chase Lyman for a sixth year of playing eligibility.
Lyman played in four games during the 2004 season before suffering a major knee injury against USC. He had previously missed the 2002 season due to a torn hamstring.
If Lyman had hurt himself in the third game of 2004 instead of the fourth game, he would have met the normal criteria for a medical redshirt and therefore would have stood a better chance of gaining a sixth year.
"While we respect the NCAA's decision, we are certainly disappointed for Chase," Cal coach Jeff Tedford said in a statement Thursday. "He has given so much to our program while overcoming adversity. None of us will ever forget his extraordinary performance in the 2003 Insight Bowl (five catches for 149 yards) and the way he persevered through injuries to finally show everyone how talented he is as a wide receiver. He's a fine young man who will have future success, whether it is in or out of football."
Lyman caught 54 passes for 1,089 yards during an injury-plagued career at Cal. In those four games during his senior season, Lyman caught 14 passes for 414 yards and five touchdowns. He now will turn his attention toward the NFL.
"I'm not sure yet about an agent," Lyman said. "And I'm thinking about going to L.A. to work out with (former UCLA wide receiver) Tab Perry."
While the announcement didn't shock Lyman, he was disappointed. "Just recently, I was thinking I would get it. I'm bummed out, to be honest. But I do think I'm going to be the sleeper of the (NFL) draft."