Grand,
I don't completely disagree with you. But the problem is that, in general, you are talking about a bunch of kids coming from very poor backgrounds. A free education, room and board, etc is all well and good, but many of these kids can't even afford to go out and have a beer with their friends on the weekend. I'm not suggesting that we throw a pity party for kids who could get through 4 or 5 years of their lives without spending a dime, but I am absolutey in favor of reassessing the idea that a kid should be punished if he takes money from and agent so that he can enjoy his free time.
I hope this lawsuit leads to stipends for athletes. It should be a set amount for everyone so that college recruiting doesn't turn into a bidding war. Limiting compensation to the cost of education and then punishing those who get tempted to take a little extra is absolutely draconian, and it must change.