Yesterday we learned that Alabama junior offensive tackle Andre Smith was suspended and won’t play in the Sugar Bowl, but we didn’t know why.

Now an explanation has emerged… sort of. Sources told ESPN.com that the suspension has to do with Smith engaging in “improper dealings with an agent.” I’m still not sure exactly what that means and whether it’s really worth suspending arguably the best left tackle in the SEC before a really big game.

But hopefully Alabama knows what it’s doing. ESPN.com goes on to report on the logistics of the suspension:

Smith was sent home from New Orleans, where the Crimson Tide arrived Saturday to begin final preparations for Friday's game. Left guard Mike Johnson was practicing in Smith's spot at left tackle on Monday, and sophomore David Ross moved into the starting rotation at left guard.

"The University of Alabama, the team and the football program are more important than any individual player," Saban said in a statement. "Everyone on our team depends on each other to be responsible, to make good choices and decisions relative to their actions."

Considering Smith will probably go on to be a top-five selection in the NFL draft, this decision really hurts Alabama more than him.