Reporters' Notebooks

Randy Peterson, Des Moines Register: Iowa State athletic director Jamie Pollard told state Democrats that if they wanted 175 tickets to the Iowa-Iowa State game in Ames, they would have to buy Cyclone season tickets. Iowa then filled the Democrats' single-game request.

Curt Rallo, South Bend Tribune: The Big Ten is getting ready to play hardball with Comcast by urging fans to switch from cable to DirecTV. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Bob Condotta, Seattle Times: Could Washington coach Tyrone Willingham's job be at stake if the Huskies, who play the nation's toughest schedule, win only one or two games.

Brendan Murphy, Lafayette Journal and Courier: Former Purdue quarterback Brandon Kirsch now regrets leaving early for a shot at the NFL.

Dave Matter, Columbia Tribune: A look at 12 storylines as the Big 12 enters its 12th season of football.

AOL Fanhouse: A Des Moines area bank will produce a commemorative coin to be used for the pregame toss at Iowa State home games that will bear the likeness of coach Gene Chizik. The coin will also be sold for $15. Thanks to Dave!

Ferd Lewis, Honolulu Advertiser: Hawaii coach June Jones says quarterback Colt Brennan won't be padding his statistics this fall by playing late in games that are already decided.

Denise Lavoie, Associated Press: Jury selection is scheduled to begin Friday in Crewcut Charlie Weis' retrial of his medical malpractice lawsuit.

Dave Curtis, Orlando Sentinel: A felony charge against Florida running back Brandon James has been dropped. He still faces a misdemeanor marijuana charge.

And here is today's mystery link. Send mystery link submissions to dawizofodds (at) aol.com.