West Virginia vs. Syracuse: Joe Madsen academically ineligible, according to report

The West Virginia Mountaineers have had a very up-and-down season in 2012, and the ride continues with the news that center Joe Madsen is academically ineligible to play against the Syracuse Orange in the Pinstripe Bowl, according to the Daily Mail.

Madsen's loss would obviously create quite a problem for West Virginia's offense, which needs someone on the line with experience calling out protections.

Some are speculating that Jeff Braun makes the move from right guard over to center in order to keep an experienced player making the key calls, but that's not for certain.

John Bassler is also in the mix to replace Madsen, as a senior who has very limited experience in a starting role. Head coach Dana Holgorsen is yet to comment on his plans.

If the report is accurate, this would be the second time that Madsen has been academically ineligible for a bowl game in his time at West Virginia.