Major Drama Surrounding Cam Newton's Eligibility

Heisman Trophy favorite Cam Newton can focus on playing for the SEC championship instead of worrying about pay-for-play.

The NCAA ruled Wednesday that Auburn's quarterback won't be punished for the payment scheme concocted by his father, Cecil.

Instead, the younger Newton will lead the second-ranked Tigers into the Southeastern Conference championship game Saturday against South Carolina – with a shot at the national title on the line.

The NCAA cleared Newton to compete without conditions, saying it was Cecil Newton and "an owner of a scouting service" – former Mississippi State player Kenny Rogers – who violated amateurism rules.