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Joe Bachie Declared Ineligible by Big Ten For Failed Drug Test

Michigan State Joe Bachie NFL suspended

Michigan State senior linebacker Joe Bachie has been declared ineligible by the Big Ten Conference for failing a random drug test, the university announced. Bachie tested positive for a substance that is considered performance-enhancing and banned by the league but no further specifics regarding it were immediately shared. 

"All my career I’ve done my very best to represent Michigan State in a positive manner on and off the field," Bachie said. "I plan to appeal, but to all of those affected, from my coaches to my teammates and to the fans, I apologize for putting them through this situation. I will always be a Spartan."

The university will support his decision to appeal the conference's decision.

"Joe Bachie has built himself into an All-Big Ten middle linebacker and two-time team captain through his incredible work ethic and leadership skills," Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio said in a statement. "This situation breaks my heart, but I know Joe is resilient and accountable. No one feels worse than Joe does, a sentiment he expressed when he spoke to the team earlier today. This does not define Joe as a player, and more importantly, as a man. He will graduate in December and has a very bright future ahead of him, both on and off the field. As a program, we plan to appeal immediately, and will continue to support Joe however we can. He will forever be a Spartan."

Bachie has 37 solo tackles, 3.5 sacks and one interception on the season.

Michigan State will play Illinois on Nov. 9.