NCAA nixes Oklahoma State’s helmet QR code for NIL money

The NCAA blocked a plan from Oklahoma State to put a QR code on the back of its helmets that would allow fans to make a direct donation to the team’s NIL fund, according to Eli Lederman of ESPN.

Oklahoma State first introduced the plan less than two weeks ago and was going to place a 1.5-square-inch decal on the back of its helmets that would allow fans watching from home to scan them and make a donation to the fund. 

It was a fascinating idea and another sign of how much of a factor money is for major college sports programs. Especially now in the age of NIL where players can make serious money to play for a certain program. 

The NCAA, however, ruled before Saturday’s season opener against South Dakota State that the QR codes were actually considered advertising or “commercial marks” which are not allowed by the NCAA.

Oklahoma State is arguing that its interpretation of the rule is that it is an institutional decal that is allowed by the NCAA’s bylaws.

Athletic director Chad Weiberg issued the following statement on Saturday.

“We disagree with the interpretation of the rule but will abide by it and work with the appropriate groups to lead on the needed change,” Oklahoma State athletic director Chad Weiberg said in a statement. “Our people came up with an innovative concept to raise NIL value of our student-athletes, but ultimately, it just serves as the latest example of how college sports are evolving at a faster pace than the rulebook.”