USC LB Scott Felix loses appeal of penalty, career over

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Southern California linebacker Scott Felix has lost his final year of football eligibility after losing an appeal of his penalty for taking a banned substance.

The school announced Felix had lost his appeal to the NCAA on Friday.

Felix claims he took an over-the-counter supplement from a nutrition store that led to his positive test. He says he didn't consult the school's medical staff before he took the substance.

Felix started 15 games for the Trojans, including 10 last season as a redshirt junior. He made 75 tackles in his USC career.

He changed his last name from Starr to Felix in late 2014.

USC coach Clay Helton says the school is investigating ways to allow Felix to be involved with the program this fall while he completes his theater degree.