Texas Tech suspends 3 players for bowl game versus Gophers

September 29, 2012; Ames, IA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders defensive back Cornelius Douglas (2) intercepts a pass from the Iowa State Cyclones in the first quarter at Jack Trice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports

Three Texas Tech Red Raiders will not be playing in the Meineke Car Care Bowl on Friday versus the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers because they violated team rules, according to a Texas Tech official.

Spokesman Blayne Beal said defensive back Cornelius Douglas, linebacker Chris Payne and defensive tackle Leon Mackey will not play, but did not make mention of what violations the players had committed.

Douglas is the only starter suspended. A senior from Oklahoma, he has two interceptions on the season, both in a game against Iowa State.