UCLA Suspends Crawford, Phifer for Violations of University Rules

Safety Willie Crawford and linebacker Roman Phifer have been suspended from the UCLA football team for the 1989 season because of violations of university rules and regulations, the school announced Wednesday.

“This is the result of university disciplinary action by the dean of students,” read a statement released by the UCLA sports information office.

Despite numerous attempts to reach them, neither Raymond H. Goldstone, dean of students, nor Coach Terry Donahue returned a reporter’s phone calls.

Crawford, a redshirt freshman from Beverly Hills High, was listed No. 2 on the depth chart behind starting free safety Eric Turner, but was expected to “keep the position competitive throughout the season,” according to the UCLA press guide. His father is former Dodger Willie Crawford and his godfather is Walt Hazzard, former UCLA basketball coach.

Phifer, a junior from Pineville, N.C., was sharing the No. 1 spot at left outside linebacker with junior Rocen Keeton and was “probably the best pass defender among the outside linebackers,” according to the press guide.