The Great Billboard Competition

Nothing chaps the backside like seeing a billboard proudly displaying an accomplishment by your team's rival. It turns that stretch of road into a highway to hell. You wish there was something you could do to counter this injustice. Well now there is. ...

We're announcing the great billboard competition. It's your chance to get a dig on your opponents and have it proudly displayed to the masses. The billboard above will serve as the template (click on it to get the full-size file), and we're asking fans to use it — abuse it, actually — and destabilize your rival. Create the billboard you want your opponent to see. After all, the best defense is a good offense.

Ground rules? Just a few. Pornography is frowned upon, and we reserve the right to throw out any entry that goes beyond good taste. The plan is to display entries as we go along and then put all of them up for a vote to determine the best of the best. Spread the word and send your entries to dawizofodds (at) aol.com.

We've included a few examples of actual billboards from the past year to get the creative juices flowing. Thanks to Trent for the bottom entry spotted in Columbus! Entries: Gambling Loss, Threesome, Wiz Under Attack, The Great Sabanini, Welcome to College Statiowned, Good Seats Available, Urine for Trouble, Fluffer, Accidents Happen, Saw 'Em Off, Gun Laws, Speak of the Devil, Phil Fulmer's Flock, Auburn's Money and Grades, Sooner or Later, Two for Tuesday, Don't Forget Your Laptop, Ed Orgeron Is Shrek, Bowden Manure Service, Roll Over Tide and Beat Michagain.

Spring Reports

Atlantic Coast

Boston College: There's another Flutie at Chestnut Hill. Billy Flutie — Doug is his uncle — made a splash during the spring finale.

Maryland: Chris Turner, the Terrapins' third-string quarterback, beat the top two signal callers in a lackluster game with conservative offense.

Pacific 10

Oregon: The Ducks, trying to replace all five offensive linemen, struggled to get any consistency on offense before 11,723.

Oregon State: Still no clear-cut favorite in the quarterback derby between Lyle Moevao and Sean Canfield.

Stanford: Good news: The defense, listless and underwhelming in two previous scrimmages, played well. Bad news: It came against the Cardinal offense.

Washington: The Huskies displayed some first-line talent, but not much is left in reserve as the team prepares for the nation's toughest schedule.

Western Athletic

Fresno State: A youth movement that started during a seven-game losing streak appears to be paying dividends in the secondary.

Hawaii: The Warriors displayed their multi-blitz approach under new defensive coordinator Greg McMackin.

Nevada: Quarterback Nick Graziano's play brought praise from coach Chris Ault, whose team opens at Nebraska.

At UCLA, There's No Place to Run

UCLA either has one of the nation's best defenses or one of the worst offenses coming out of spring. The Bruins held their spring game Friday night at Spaulding Field in Westwood and it wasn't pretty, unless you like defense.

The first-team offense, which played exclusively against the second-team defense, managed one rushing yard in 19 attempts. Freshman Justin Fareed, top, and junior Kahlil Bell, left, were among the runners who struggled as new offensive coordinator Jay Norvell, who is standing behind Bell, watched his unit sputter.

UCLA named Ben Olson, below, the starting quarterback last Thursday, a move that could be questioned if the Bruins' struggles continue into the fall.

Linebacker Reggie Carter, below left, warms up before the scrimmage, and backup quarterback Patrick Cowan, below right, was smiling despite losing the starting job to Olson.

The Wiz would like to thank Jack for sending us the images. He has several other shots available on this thread at Bruin Report Online.

Previous spring game coverage: Ohio State, Nebraska, Iowa State, Iowa, Georgia, USC and Auburn. Want your team represented in our spring coverage? Send images to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. We'd be happy to plug your site in return.

Trial Set to Begin for Former Iowa Receiver

Ivory Webb was a receiver and two-time letterman at Iowa. He started the 1982 Rose Bowl and his former Hawkeye teammates include Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops, Arizona coach Mike Stoops and former NFL All-Pro Andre Tippett.

Webb went on to become a sheriff's deputy in San Bernardino County, and in February 2006, he shot Air Force policeman Elio Carrion three times after a brief car chase. The incident was captured on video by a bystander, and Carrion, a passenger in the vehicle, appeared to be obeying Webb's orders before being shot.

Carrion has recovered and now Webb, who is no longer a member of the force, is about to go on trial for the shooting, with jury selection to begin Monday. Warning: video is graphic.

Reporters' Notebooks

Ron Bracken, Centre Daily Times: No matter how hard you try, you just can't fix stupid at Penn State.

John Helsley, Oklahoman: A warrant has been issued for former Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson, the seventh pick of the NFL draft by Minnesota, for non-payment of a traffic violation.

Iliana Limon, Albuquerque Tribune: New Mexico is the latest team to join a trend of moving practices to mornings.

Brett McMurphy, Tampa Tribune: South Florida quarterback Matt Grothe faces a second-degree misdemeanor charge for serving alcohol to an underage person.

Norman Chad, for the Charleston Gazette: Here’s his problem with Ultimate Fighting — if nobody dies, how ultimate is it?

How the NFL Draft Mirrors Recruiting

We view the NFL draft much like we view recruiting: A whole lot of coverage about nothing. OK, maybe that is a tad harsh, but Tom Kirkendall has an excellent post about what the draft is really about: Finding the hidden gems.

Kirkendall points to a Wall Street Journal article (subscription only) by Allen St. John that examined the five drafts before this weekend's gathering at Radio City Music Hall. Of the 80 position players who made the All-Pro teams since 2002, 35, or 44%, were not drafted in the first round. In fact, 21 All-Pros weren't picked until the third round or later. Five of the All-Pros went undrafted.

And of the No. 1 pick in the draft, only one — Peyton Manning — became an All-Pro. So don't be surprised when that can't-miss blue chip prep player your college team signed misses and the kid who was an afterthought becomes the star of the team.

How One Trojan Prepared for Draft

USC center Ryan Kalil, projected to be a first-day pick in the NFL draft, and actor Will Ferrell get together in this comedy bit that will air during the NFL Network's draft coverage. Ferrell plays USC auxiliary strength and conditioning coach "Chuck Berry." Also appearing are Pete Carroll and "Little Matty" Leinart. Thanks to Sports By Brooks!

Six Penn State Players Face Felony Charges

Felony charges have been filed against six Penn State players in connection with an April 1 on-campus assault. Among the players charged were Anthony Scirrotto, top left, a safety who led the Big Ten in interceptions last season, and Justin King, below left, a second-team all-Big Ten cornerback. Also charged were defensive tackle Chris Baker, top middle, linebacker Jerome Hayes, top right, linebacker Tyrell Sales, bottom middle, and cornerback Lydell Sargeant, bottom right. All of the players are juniors. Scirrotto, who faces the most serious charges, had his bail set at $50,000. The other players had bail of $10,000.
Police say the men forced their way into an apartment and attacked several people attending a party, including one individual who tried to break up the altercation and was knocked unconscious after being hit in the head with a beer bottle. While unconscious, police say the man was repeatedly punched in the head. Police say subpoenas will be issued to as many as 20 players in the incident. State College Police press release.

A statement issued by coach Joe Paterno indicated the players will not be disciplined at this time. The coaching staff "will determine the appropriate consequence for each player's status on the team when due process has transpired. Until such time, we will have no further comment regarding the situation."

Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State for his help.

Track the Draft Through Map Game Day

Map Game Day is at it again. For the second year in a row, one of our favorite sites will be working the NFL draft, providing a graphical look at the selections by university, hometown or NFL team as it happens. The price? Free. You can't beat that! Currently, the 2007 site is loaded with a mock draft of the first round by CNNSI's Don Banks, but that will be zeroed out Saturday morning when the fun begins. For a better graphical representation of what to expect this weekend, take a look at Map Game Day's 2006 draft site.

Reporters' Notebooks

James Rainey, Los Angeles Times: Sportswriter Christine Daniels, the former Mike Penner who stunned colleagues with an 823-word essay announcing she was a transitioning transsexual, talks about the decision to go public. Plus, L.A. Times comments page and Sports Journalists message board.

Chris Foster, Los Angeles Times: In a decision that is sure to spark controversy, Ben Olson was named UCLA's starting quarterback over Patrick Cowan.

Michael Hunt, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The decision by the NCAA to do away with text messaging should be cheered. It's a victory for athletes' privacy.

Lafayette Journal and Courier: Former Purdue player Kyle Williams is facing up to 28 years in prison after a conviction on five of six criminal counts.

Jeff Wilson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: Texas Christian players Stephen Hodge and Robert Henson have been charged with weapons-related misdemeanors.

Catch Us on Sports Byline USA

A reminder to join the Wiz Friday night/Saturday morning on "Sports Overnight America" on the Sports Byline USA Radio Network. Join us at 11:30 p.m. (Pacific) and give us a call at 800-878-7529. You can hear the show over the Internet at SportsByline.com. Just click on "Listen Live." Or catch us over the American Forces Network, heard in 177 countries and U.S. territories and Navy ships at sea. And if you're into terrestrial radio, check the list of Sports Byline affiliates.

More From the Files of Project 119

Project 119, which we told you about Wednesday, is the brainchild of Dave, a 23-year-old college football fanatic whose goal is to visit all 119 Division I-A stadiums before he turns 30. In February, he paid a visit to Cincinnati's Nippert Stadium after a snowstorm. As you can see, this is what happens when you keep the gates open to your stadium.

Last Call for Brew's Crew T-Shirts

Minnesota officials have stopped production of a T-shirt promoting Tim Brewster, the team's new coach, because officials believe the phrase "Brew's Crew" could be connected with the consumption of alcohol.

"We're excited that Brewster's nickname is 'Brew', but we want to do the right thing," athletic director Joel Maturi said. "We believe there are other ways to promote the program without sending mixed messages about alcohol."

The Goal Line Club, a booster organization, had 2,500 of the shirts printed with the slogan and team's "M" logo. The club will be allowed to sell any remaining shirts, priced at $15 apiece, through its website.

After Minnesota officials made the announcement, sales quickly picked up. About 400 of the shirts were sold Wednesday. "We should have no trouble selling the rest of them," Goal Line president Teresa Grim said. Proceeds go to the football program.

Reporters' Notebooks

Mike Penner, Los Angeles Times: A 23-year veteran of the sports department announces that he is transsexual and changing his name to Christine Daniels.

Chris Dufresne, Los Angeles Times: Bowl Championship Series officials discussed but did not enact a rule that would allow more than two teams from one conference to play in a BCS game. For the upcoming season, no changes will be made in the BCS.

Ray Fittipaldo, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: As many as six Penn State players could be charged in an on-campus assault. "You know more about it than I do," coach Joe Paterno said.

Joseph Person, Columbia State: South Carolina's Steve Spurrier on Florida State, his former season-ending opponent at Florida: "Back then FSU was pretty good. Almost everybody’s beating them now. But they were pretty tough back in the early '90s, mid '90s and so forth.”

Steve Ellis, Tallahassee Democrat: Florida State defensive back Myron Rolle is headed overseas to take nine hours of classes this summer.

Ryan Malashock, Arkansas Morning News: Arkansas officials say a lawsuit filed against the university is "totally without any legal basis."

Joshua Mayers, Washington Daily: Washington, which split the 1991 national title with Miami, is now staking a claim to the 1960 national title. Thanks to reader Bruce!

Paul Buker, Oregonian: Oregon State coach Mike Riley, 38-34 in six seasons, signed a contract extension through 2012.

Heather A. Dinich, Baltimore Sun: Maryland officials unveiled plans to renovate and expand Byrd Stadium's seating capacity to 60,000.

Paul Dellinger, Roanoke Times: Virginia Tech receiver Josh Hyman lost his driving privileges for a year after pleading no contest to operating a motor vehicle under the influence.

Wendell Barnhouse, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: A wrapup of Big Ten Conference spring football.

Another Bizarre Twist at Arkansas

After a week of calm, things have sparked up again at Arkansas, where a man has filed a lawsuit against John White, right, the chancellor of the Fayetteville campus, and Alan Sugg, the president of the University of Arkansas.

In what is being called a taxpayer action, John David Terry alleges that White and Sugg failed to properly investigate two emails sent in December by Teresa Prewett of Little Rock, one to Mitch Mustain, the other to Democrat-Gazette sports editor Wally Hall.

Prewett is a Razorback booster and friend of Houston Nutt, and critics of the coach have alleged that he was behind Prewett's emails, which were critical of Mustain. The quarterback announced last week that he was transferring to USC. Prewett has since apologized for the emails.

You can download the 41-page legal document, which is a pdf file titled "Shock and Awe," by clicking here.

Project 119 Visits Columbus

If you're trapped in some office cubicle today, we feel your pain. OK, the job pays the bills and such, but there has to be a better way, a way to truly enjoy life. We bring you Dave, a man who by his own description is "totally directionaless." (sic) Yes, he's living our dream.

Dave is 23, and plans to visit every Division I-A stadium in the land. That's 119 in all, and his venture is aptly titled "Project 119."
"Everyone needs goals in life and hobbies. I have decided on a goal that is both unattainable and utterly ridiculous. It is my goal to go and see all 119 NCAA Division I-A football stadiums before I die. I know that this has kind of been done before by a couple of guys who have gone to see all of the Major League Baseball stadiums, but those guys are obviously pussies. What are there like 30 of those?!"

Yes, this is a man who truly loves his job.

"I have a map on my wall with a sharpie line for all the places I've been, and highlighted cities for all the places I will eventually go. I want to finish by the time I'm 30, and think that Hawaii might be a pretty sweet final destination.

"So yeah, it's mostly a geek thing I guess, but I f"ing love it."

Dave now counts 20 stadiums under his belt and he paid a visit Saturday to Ohio State, where the Buckeyes were treating 75,301 to their spring game. He sent along some shots from the action.
We also want to point readers to more Buckeye shots at Go Bucks, The Greatest Blog in the World and the Flickr page of Eleven Warriors. And our report from Columbus would not be complete without video from our friends at The Palestra.

We'd love to run photos from your team's spring finale. Send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: Nebraska, Iowa State, Iowa, Georgia, USC, Auburn.

Nick Saban Has a Message for Everybody

Alabama coach Nick Saban is tired of answering questions about winning championships. He's ready to do it. "Let's quit talking about it and let's go do what got to do to do it." ... Saban certainly can talk the talk, but can his team walk the walk?

When Losing Means Winning

Why does gastric-bypass surgery work for some and not for others? Former USC tailback Anthony Davis, top left, saw his weight balloon to 300 pounds. On March 11, 2006, he had the surgery, which was broadcast over the Internet. On April 7 of this year, a noticeably slimmer Davis was signing autographs at the USC spring game.

Iowa State defensive coordinator Wayne Bolt's results have been even more dramatic. Bolt, top right, had the surgery just over a year ago after his weight hit 500 pounds. He has lost over 250 pounds. Bolt told the Wiz that "the surgery was the best thing I have ever done. I have lost 253 pounds and feel great."

Then there is Notre Dame coach Charlie Weis, left, who is due in a Massachusetts court in less than three months for a retrial of his medical malpractice lawsuit against two physicians Weis says botched his 2002 gastric-bypass operation.

Weis said he decided to undergo the surgery after his weight ballooned to around 350 pounds. After nearly dying after the risky procedure, Weis said he lost more than 100 pounds, only to regain 50 pounds. Speculation in South Bend is that Weis has since regained nearly all of the 100 pounds.

Bolt tells the Wiz that the procedure was merely part of the equation. "The surgery is a tool to help to lose the weight. You must exercise to lose the weight," he said.

Reporters' Notebooks

Mike McCall, Florida Alligator: A wild weekend in Gainesville, where five Florida players allegedly were involved in a confrontation and robbery at a party. Thanks to Loser With Socks.

Associated Press: Grant Teaff, executive director of the American Football Coaches Association, has sent a letter appealing to the NCAA's board of directors to find a middle ground on a proposed text messaging ban.

Steve Conroy, Boston Herald: Boston College offensive line coach Jim Turner resigned, citing "a difference in philosophies in the direction of the program."

Associated Press: The Navy Blue Angels pilot who died Saturday in a crash in South Carolina once had Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops as a passenger in his plane.

Andrew Logue, Des Moines Register: Three Iowa State players were cited for fifth degree theft after allegedly taking items from a purse that was left unattended on a bus.

Susan Miller Degnan, Miami Herald: Miami safety Anthony Reddick, who was suspended four games for swinging his helmet and hitting a Florida International player during a brawl last season, tore a ligament in his left knee playing basketball and will miss the season.

Troy Phillips, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: North Texas is the latest team making the switch to the spread offense.

To bypass registration, go to Bug Me Not.

In Australia, Technology Rules

What does Australian Rules Football have to do with American college football? Football Down Under is entering a new technological age, with players wearing small global positioning satellite units strapped to their backs. Every step and heartbeat is recorded and beamed to the coaches' box, where the numbers are monitored in real time on a laptop.

Given the similarities in the bruising physical nature of the two sports, it would seem like only a matter of time before such technology becomes part of the American game.

The Aussies are using the technology in many ways:

When player starts to "red-line" on any given measure during a game, he is replaced by a teammate with fresh legs.

The associated software enables teams to set upper and lower thresholds on each measure for each player, thus allowing the computer to tell a coach when a player is showing signs of fatigue or not working hard enough.

Fitness and conditioning regimes can be developed for each player to replicate game demands and adjust training loads to take account of the work done throughout a season.

Currently, there is one problem: The GPS devices don't work inside domed stadiums, but one team is already in partnership with a university to develop a modified GPS unit that will provide some real-time information without access to satellites.

Spring Reports

Atlantic Coast

Duke: With quarterback Zack Asack suspended for plagiarism, Thaddeus Lewis took all the snaps during the spring game.

Big East

Cincinnati: New coach Brian Kelly wasted no time putting his wide-open offense on display.

Louisville: Brian Brohm had three touchdown passes, but had four passes intercepted during Cardinals' spring finale.

Rutgers: The story came off the field, where running back Ray Rice had surgery to remove a bone chip on his right ankle.

Syracuse: The Orange may have found a starting quarterback in sophomore Andrew Robinson.

Big 12

Kansas State: Coach Ron Prince could have a quarterback controversy on his hands.

Missouri: Quarterback Chase Daniel has a message for anyone who pegs the Tigers as Big 12 North Division favorites: Bring it on.

Big Ten

Illinois: Ron Zook's offense displayed a developing big-play combination between second-year quarterback Juice Williams and freshman receiver Arrelious Benn.

Michigan State: An estimated 25,000 fans attended the Spartans' first spring game since Nick Saban's last season in 1999.

Northwestern: A sluggish offense could get a boost from former backup quarterback Andrew Brewer, who is now starting at receiver.

Penn State: A group of big receivers could add a new dimension to the offense.

Purdue: Anthony Heygood, who was buried on the depth chart at running back, appears to have cracked the starting lineup at linebacker.

Wisconsin: The quarterback derby between Tyler Donovan and Allan Evridge appears to be a dead heat.

Independent

Notre Dame: An announced crowd of 51,852 saw very little of quarterback Jimmy Clausen and a lot of running back Junior Jabbie.

Southeastern

Alabama: Nick Saban's remodeling project is a big hit in Tuscaloosa — witness the record turnout of 92,138 — but the Crimson Tide coach continues to push for improvement.

Kentucky: The offense got its share of big plays, but coach Rich Brooks was encouraged by the improved play of the defense.

Sun Belt

Florida International: Coach Mario Cristobal's first spring game had quite the ambiance, including complimentary food featuring six roasted pigs.

In College, Insurance Can Be the Best Policy

The odds are fewer than one in 100. But even with the odds stacked heavily in his favor, Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm is in no mood to gamble.

Brohm, like so many returning college seniors, is expected to take out a disability insurance policy. Should Brohm be injured in his senior season at Louisville, he will be covered for millions should his pro aspirations be cut short.

Policies cost tens of thousands of dollars, and fewer than one in 100 ever file a claim.

Several companies write such policies, and even the NCAA is involved. The governing body, which entered the field in 1990, now offers up to $3 million of coverage for football players. To be eligible for the NCAA program, a player must be projected to be drafted in the first three rounds.

Brohm is considered such a sure prospect that he may be eligible for the rare policy that would pay an intermediate amount if an injury caused his draft status to drop but did not keep him from playing professionally. The cost? At typical rates, a $10 million policy could cost $200,000.

Corn Nation

Nebraska is known for producing offensive linemen, and one of the latest models on the assembly line is Matt Slauson, who — shall we say — displayed a rather interesting look during the Cornhuskers' spring game April 14. Nebraska is coming off a 9-5 season and expectations continue to grow in Lincoln, where fans lined up to get into Memorial Stadium. The game drew an announced 54,288, including Jason of Big Red Network, who we thank for the photos.
One of the reasons for optimism is Arizona State transfer Sam Keller, below, who completed 10 of 13 passes for 193 yards and a touchdown. Keller is competing with Joe Ganz, who completed 11 of 18 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown.
Why is defensive tackle Brandon Johnson smiling? You would be too if spring practice just ended. ... We'd love to run photos from your team's spring finale. Send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: Iowa State, Iowa, Georgia, USC, Auburn.

Reporters' Notebooks

David Levinthal, Dallas Morning News: The new agreement with the Cotton Bowl means Oklahoma and Texas will pocket $4.7 million each from the Red River Shootout beginning in 2008.

James T. Hammond, Columbia State: The South Carolina trustees are seeking to rein in an athletic department that is said to be making large financial deals without required board approval.

Jeff Arnold, Ann Arbor News: Michigan has approved plans to build a $26.1 million indoor practice facility that will be ready in 2009.

Omar Kelly, Sun-Sentinel: Fullback James Bryant, who was suspended three times last season for undisclosed reasons, is leaving Miami.

Troy Phillips, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: What is former Washington State quarterback and NFL flop Ryan Leaf up to this spring? He's the golf coach at West Texas A&M.

To bypass registration, go to Bug Me Not.

Iowa Error in Not Letting Tate Keep Prize

You might recall last summer when Iowa's Drew Tate was playing in a charity golf tournament and made a hole-in-one that earned him $25,000 toward the purchase of a new Dodge.

Word quickly reached then-Iowa athletic director Bob Bowlsby, who told the quarterback that if he accepted the prize, he would be ineligible for his senior season.

It turns out that Tate could have kept the prize and maintained his eligibility. This according to Wally Renfro, senior advisor to NCAA president Myles Brand.

"It is my understanding that it is not a violation to accept the car. Iowa wouldn't let him keep it, not the NCAA," Renfro told the site Money Players.

This wasn't the first time Renfro offered this opinion. He told Darren Rovell of CNBC.com that same thing in March. Rovell was in New York to cover the IMG World Congress of Sports when Brand said he wasn't opposed to student-athletes filling out NCAA brackets as long as it wasn't for money. "A student-athlete can walk into the a supermarket and be the millionth customer and win a prize."

Wrote Rovell: "I was surprised by Brand's comments because I remember the University of Iowa forced their quarterback Drew Tate to give back the $25,000 he won by hitting a hole-in-one at a charity golf tournament because they said it would sacrifice his final year of eligibility. After Brand finished speaking, I spoke with the NCAA's Wally Renfro, who told me that he didn't believe that Tate's accepting of the prize was against NCAA rules. Sorry Drew."

I Want My Big Ten TV

The battle lines are being drawn. The Big Ten Network is set to launch in less than 15 weeks, but unless you have DirecTV, there is a good chance you won't be able to get the network, even if you live in Big Ten country.

Sports Business Journal reports the network is asking cable providers to pay $1.10 per subscriber in the Big Ten area. The price has major cable companies balking because they don't want to pass the additional fees onto customers. By comparison, ESPN charges $3 per subscriber and the NFL Network only 70 cents.

Another problem: The Chicago Tribune reports many cable companies don't have room on basic tiers to add another channel.

The Big Ten, believing it has the upper hand, is counting on fans to pressure cable companies once the network goes live. The cable companies usually cave and then pass along the cost to the complaining customers. Beautiful how this works, isn't it?

Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Cyclone Nation Gets Recharged

Because many of our readers enjoy an adult beverage from time to time, it's time to provide a sure-fire question that will win a bar bet. Name the three returning college quarterbacks with most career passing yards. The answer: Hawaii's Colt Brennan (9,850), Michigan's Chad Henne (7,777) and — this will win it for you — Iowa State's Bret Meyer (7,348).

Cyclone Nation is energized with the return of Meyer and the addition of new coach Gene Chizik. A record 32,024 season tickets have been sold, and fans got their first look at Chizik's troops last Saturday during the spring game.

We'd like to thank David of 1430 KASI in Ames for the shots. He got motivated after seeing the Cyclones' rival featured earlier this week. "As an Iowa State grad I cannot let the pictures of the Hawkeyes stand!" he said.

If you have photos from your team's spring game and would like to share them with our audience, please send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: Iowa, Georgia, USC, Auburn.

Reporters' Notebooks

Dave Levinthal, Dallas Morning News: A deal has been reached to keep the Oklahoma-Texas game at the Cotton Bowl through 2015.

Adam Jones, Tuscaloosa News: Alabama coach Nick Saban got the job in January, but he has yet to sign an employment contract.

Kevin Scarbinsky, Birmingham News: The question remains: Is former Alabama player Juwan Simpson worthy of leaving his mark in the Walk of Fame?

Brent Schrotenboer, San Diego Union-Tribune: The NCAA has granted San Diego State a waiver from scholarship reduction penalties on the basis of improved player retention and academic eligibility.

Carl DuBois, Baton Rouge Advocate: Three Louisiana State players have been dismissed from the team.

To bypass registration, go to Bug Me Not.

Join Our International Radio Audience

It has been so busy this week that we almost forgot to plug the radio show. Yes, tune in Friday night/Saturday morning to "Sports Overnight America" on the Sports Byline USA Radio Network beginning at 11:40 (Pacific). Honestly, there's nothing else to do at that hour except drink or sleep, and where do those activities take you? One is expensive and gives you a hangover and the other is simply boring, so you might as well do something constructive with that time and listen to the show. Give us a call at 800-878-7529.

You can hear "Sports Overnight America" over the Internet at SportsByline.com. Just click on "Listen Live." Or the show is available in 177 countries and U.S. territories via the American Forces Network. Terrestrial radio is your last option. A list of Sports Byline affiliates is available by clicking here. If the affiliate isn't carrying the show, call the station manager and tell him you want us on. We'd appreciate it!

Billy Sims Has Longhorns in Bowl Game

Oklahoma fans can now take aim at their rivals from Texas in a unique way. The men's room at Billy Sims Barbecue in Tulsa features a toilet with an upside-down Longhorn in the bowl.

Sims, who won the Heisman in 1978 for Oklahoma, is part-owner of the business, and it appears to be gaining popularity in the Sooner State, with new locations springing up in Edmond and Broken Arrow.

Sims' jabs at the Longhorns go beyond the men's room. The menu features a Bevo Plate (beef brisket that comes chopped or sliced) and the Texas Dog (Polish sausage).

You can also order the Smoked Jayhawk (chicken breast), Mini-Huskers (corn on the cob), Pulled Razorback (pork) and the Arkansas Steak (bologna).

Keith of Sooner Stats, who sent us this gem, informs us that Sims recently became Oklahoma's career rushing leader. How can this be? He says Oklahoma officials recently went back and recalculated all the rushing totals to include bowl games, and this allowed Sims to pass Joe Washington.

Mustain Is Set to Transfer to USC

Former Arkansas quarterback Mitch Mustain, the 2005 prep player of the year, is set to transfer to USC, according to the L.A. Times. Mustain will join former Razorback receiver Damian Williams, who transferred to USC in January. Mustain and Williams, who also were teammates at Springdale High, will be eligible in 2008.

Mustain's transfer to USC had been expected since he visited USC in February. He returned earlier this month for the Trojans' spring game and the only other team under consideration was Tulsa, where Mustain's high school coach, Gus Malzahn, is now offensive coordinator. Malzahn was offensive coordinator last season at Arkansas.

In the top video, Mustain leads the Razorbacks to a touchdown in his first drive as a college quarterback, oddly enough against USC. Included in the drive is a 42-yard pass to Williams.

In the bottom video, Mustain draws high praise from former USC quarterback Matt Leinart during an event last summer in Los Angeles.

Leinart, by the way, has a court appearance in Scottsdale later this month. The Arizona Cardinal quarterback is facing arraignments on three speeding violations. Leinart has been clocked speeding four times in less than a year.

Big 12 Coaches Ticked Off About Kickoffs

Expect scoring to increase this fall because kickoffs are being moved back to the 30-yard line from the 35. Although this is good news for fans, Big 12 coaches are screaming about the rule change.

The only Big 12 coach happy with the change is Kansas State's Ron Prince, and for good reason. His Wildcats led the nation in kickoff returns last season, averaging 27.1 yards in 36 returns. "We thought that was one [rule change] that might be made, so we've been practicing with the ball on the 30 all this spring," Prince said.

But Texas' Mack Brown said the rule has the potential "to change college football as much as any rule in a long time."

"You kick a ball into the wind, the guy might catch it at the 20, and you’re starting on offense at the 40 or 50," Brown said. "It's even more important now to find that kicker with a dynamic leg."

Oklahoma's Bob Stoops is worried about injuries. "They’re the highest-impact plays, and that's the only part that worries me. You always worry about the injuries."

Said Iowa State's Gene Chizik, a former defensive coordinator at Texas: "From a defensive guy standpoint, I really don’t like it. But I’m sure it’s all in an effort to make the game more exciting. There’ll be less touchbacks and more returns, which I’m sure was part of the reasoning."

Photo from Kansas State Collegian.

Reporters' Notebooks

Associated Press: Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema is still smoldering that his 12-1 team was left out of the Bowl Championship Series and that Notre Dame was included.

Robin Erb, Toledo Blade: Is the government's points-shaving case against a Toledo player crumbling?

Joey Johnston, Tampa Tribune: The springtime football fix. An early look at a top 10, key early games and a Heisman dozen.

Mark Snyder, Detroit Free Press: Michigan may be getting a new $26.1 million indoor practice facility.

Mark Tupper, Decatur Herald & Review: Ron Zook is loading up Illinois with talent. One look at Arrelious Benn tells you better days are ahead for the Fighting Illini.

Wendell Barnhouse, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: A Southeastern Conference spring football wrapup.

Michael DiRocco, Florida Times-Union: Who is on the hot seat among SEC coaches? Try Tennessee's Phillip Fulmer.

Kyle Hightower, Orlando Sentinel: Will Central Florida have its new 45,000-seat stadium finished for its Sept. 15 opener against Texas?

Stephen Tsai, Honolulu Advertiser: Not every situation can be resolved with a completed pass. Hawaii, which punted only 16 times in 14 games last season, is adding a punter to its roster.

Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman: After a big bowl win, a big increase in ticket prices at Boise State.

Barry Witt and Jon Wilner, San Jose Mercury News: Deep divisions have opened between developer Lew Wolff and San Jose State over a deal to rebuild the team's stadium.

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Now It's the Head Hog's Turn to Talk

Arkansas coach Houston Nutt finally broke his silence regarding his relationship with a Fort Smith news anchor, saying in a statement posted on the Razorback website that "speculation and rumors that I have had an inappropriate relationship with Donna Bragg are unfounded and false."

The carefully crafted statement is the latest in a series of denials from the Nutt camp and came a day after the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported that former quarterback Mitch Mustain was among those filing Freedom of Information requests seeking cell-phone and office-phone records for Nutt.

Bragg, who is divorced, denied any inappropriate relationship with Nutt in an interview with the Democrat-Gazette. Nutt's wife, Diana, issued a statement last week supporting her husband.

In his statement, Nutt addressed the 1,063 text messages and 25 phone calls between himself and Bragg from Nov. 30 through Jan. 11. One of the text messages came 19 minutes before kickoff of the Capital One Bowl, which the Razorbacks lost, 17-14, to Wisconsin.

"My communications with Ms. Bragg have concerned her work as a professional fundraiser for a non-profit organization dedicated to providing services to the developmentally disabled, her insights regarding the media, words of condolence and support regarding the loss of my mother-in-law after her battle with cancer, and information relating to her close friend who was diagnosed with cancer. I have learned a valuable lesson through this experience: for some individuals, misguided perceptions are more important than the facts."

Nutt also said he was not seeking employment elsewhere when made calls that appeared to be related to openings at North Carolina and Miami.

"It also is important that all Razorback fans know that I did not seek the coaching positions indicated in recent media reports and remain deeply committed to the University of Arkansas. It is true that many coaches receive inquiries throughout the year and inquiries have come to me in recent months without solicitation on my part."

NCAA Lacks Text Appeal

The NCAA, unable to get a grip on technology, is about to ban text messaging in college recruiting. Yes, kids do get pestered to death with text messages and there have been complaints about costs by the end user, i.e. the so-called future "student-athlete."

But Gary Parrish of CBS Sportsline actually did some research into this cost thing and get this: Many cell phone providers, no matter what package you purchase, offer unlimited text messaging for an extra $20 a month. That comes to 67 cents a day! Granted, times are tough, but if you can't afford the extra 67 cents each day, you probably shouldn't have a cell phone in the first place.

The truth is that the change in rules has more to do with the NCAA's inability to keep pace with technology. Ever go looking for something on the governing body's website? Simply put, it's a mess. And without a doubt, the best site for college football statistics is not the NCAA, it's cfbstats.com.

The easy way out for the NCAA is to outlaw text messaging altogether. The new rules will limit electronically transmitted correspondence to recruits to e-mail and faxes. Yes, faxes. That is mid-1970s technology.

We will miss text messaging. Nothing released the inner scumbag quite like it. For example, there was the case of Notre Dame assistant Peter Vaas, who continued to pepper recruit Arrelious Benn with text messages after Benn committed to Illinois. Benn then supplied some of the messages to the Washington Post. Vaas is no longer employed by Notre Dame.

And who could forget Jeb Bush taking time out from his duties as governor of Florida to text message then-New Jersey prep Myron Rolle. It worked. Rolle is now a Seminole.

Text messaging, we hardly knew ya!

Reporters' Notebooks

Joseph Person, Columbia State: Authorities are investigating reports of gunfire after an altercation involving South Carolina players and gang members at an off-campus fraternity party hours after the Gamecocks' spring game.

Ferd Lewis, Honolulu Advertiser: A Southeastern Conference team backing down from a game against Hawaii? Mississippi State has passed on a chance to play the Rainbows in Starkville.

David Castellon, Visalia Times-Delta: A former San Jose State player who was convicted of a pizza parlor robbery is now facing charges that he's the "Craigslist bandit" who robbed and assaulted people he met through for-sale ads on the site.

Marisa Schultz, Detroit News: The Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America want a judge to ban construction at Michigan Stadium until university officials revamp the plan to include more than 700 additional wheelchair seats dispersed throughout the Big House.

Michael Marot, Associated Press: Indiana players are beginning to wonder when coach Terry Hoeppner will return to the team.

Paul Strelow, Columbia State: Money talks, and it appears priority seating is coming to Clemson for the 2008 season.

John Packett, Times-Dispatch: Virginia Tech, rocked by Monday's campus shootings, has canceled its spring game scheduled for Saturday.

Rachel Cohen and Chuck Carlton, Dallas Morning News: The Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth will change its date to Dec. 31. The game matches teams from the Pacific 10 and Mountain West conferences.

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Mustain Filed Request for Information

It appears everybody is getting into the Freedom of Information Act in Arkansas. Among those filing requests were former Razorback quarterback Mitch Mustain. The story that appears in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette.

The paper filed a request last week seeking disclosure of all FOI requests since Nov. 1 and Mustain's name turned up. "In his March 14 FOI request, Mustain asked for all cell-phone and office-phone records for Houston Nutt and his secretary-assistant and the same set of records for Danny Nutt, Athletic Director Frank Broyles and Broyles ’ secretary-assistant. Mustain’s letter includes this sentence: 'I hereby authorize the University of Arkansas to release the requested information to Beckwith M. Campbell.' Campbell is Mustain’s mother."

Campbell told the paper: “Our request for information was confined to specific records and documents related to our personal experiences with the football program."

Fort Smith news anchor Donna Bragg, whose frequent contact with Houston Nutt has been at the center of the recent flareup between pro-Nutt and anti-Nutt camps, issued her first comments about her relationship with the coach.

"We have not had an inappropriate relationship. We are friends. I am also friends with Diana Nutt. Clearly, my communication with Houston is being used as a weapon by people who want him to be fired. The lies regarding our contact are vast, slanderous and painful. Houston Nutt and I are friends. Period."

How About Those Hawkeyes

Iowa finished spring drills Saturday at Kinnick Stadium, and a crowd in excess of 20,000 watched the team run through a controlled scrimmage. Iowa worked in several new starters, and Jake Christensen is expected to take over the quarterbacking duties this fall.

A statue of Nile Kinnick, Iowa's Heisman winner, was part of the stadium renovation that was completed last year. Coach Kirk Ferentz, trying to rebound off a 6-7 season, said his team remains a work in progress. Thanks to Gary from Steroid Nation for the shots!

If you have photos from your team's spring game and would like to share them with our audience, please send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: Georgia, USC, Auburn.

Reporters' Notebooks

David Chanen, Minneapolis Star Tribune: A court document details a woman's account of being raped at a University of Minnesota apartment, which resulted in the arrest of three Gopher players.

Seth Emerson, Columbia State: South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier has reinstated freshman quarterback Stephen Garcia, twice arrested on misdemeanors this winter.

Mike Baldwin, Oklahoman: Bolstered by T. Boone Pickens' historic $160 million donation, one can sense that Oklahoma State is closer to competing with the big boys.

Dick Harmon, Deseret Morning News: Brigham Young coach Bronco Mendenhall named Arizona State transfer Max Hall the starting quarterback.

Toledo Blade: A Toledo player was arrested on a burglary charge after he allegedly tried to enter a deputy's home.

Donnie Webb, Post-Standard: Syracuse starting tailback Delone Carter could miss the season after dislocating his hip.

Spring Reports

Atlantic Coast

Dan Collins, Winston-Salem Journal: Nobody is more casual about the spring than Wake Forest, which failed to use all of its 15 days allotted by the NCAA.

Derek Redd, Palm Beach Post: Xavier Lee or Drew Weatherford? Florida State's starting quarterback won't be known until fall.

Robbi Pickeral, News & Observer: North Carolina showed off its new pass-heavy offense.

Ed Miller, Virginian-Pilot: What if they held a spring game and not much happened? Welcome to Virginia.

Will Vandervort, Columbia State: It's clear that Clemson's defense is in need of a "slobber knocker" linebacker.

A.J. Carr, News & Observer: North Carolina State's offense showed the ability to make the big play.

Big East

Shawn Courchesne, Hartford Courant: At Connecticut, the defense trounced the offense, 80-46, in the Modified Edsall scoring system.

Gregg Becnell, Tampa Tribune: Matt Grothe's reputation as the comeback kid continued for South Florida in an otherwise dull spring finale.

Kevin Gorman, Tribune-Review: Pittsburgh's search to replace Tyler Palko remained like some of the throws by the two quarterback candidates — up for grabs.

Big 12

Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star: A announced crowd of 54,288 turned out in Lincoln, where Sam Keller took a mighty step toward becoming Nebraska's starting quarterback.

Jerry Hill, Waco Tribune: Is Baylor's offense that bad or is the Bears' defense that good?

Ryan Greene, Lawrence Journal-World: Observations from Kansas, where quarterbacks were free game during the first half.

Kyle Ringo, Daily Camera: Colorado appears much improved on offense and should get even better in the fall when a talented group of freshmen arrive.

Andrew Logue, Des Moines Register: Iowa State quarterback Bret Meyer played well, but receiver Todd Blythe didn't play because of undisclosed injuries.

Jenni Carlson, Oklahoman: Oklahoma State backup quarterback Zac Robinson outplayed starter Bobby Reid, but coach Mike Gundy says Robinson is his guy.

Robert Cessna, Bryan-College Station Eagle: Windy conditions limited Texas A&M's passing game, but the running attack looked sharp.

Mike DeArmond, Kansas City Star: Missouri's defense was the story of the day, holding the running game to virtually nothing.

Dwain Price, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: Crazy game at Texas Tech, where the offense totaled 523 yards and the defense registered 10 sacks, gave up only 22 net rushing yards and scored two touchdowns.

Big Ten

Terry Hutchens, Indianapolis Star: Indiana appears to have depth at quarterback, with starter Kellen Lewis and backup Ben Chappell sparkling in the spring finale.

Andy Hamilton, Iowa City Press-Citizen: Jake Christensen, in line to replace Drew Tate as Iowa's quarterback, was sharp during the final scrimmage.

Angelique S. Chengelis, Detroit News: Michigan coach Lloyd Carr says he likes "the attitude of this team."

Pacific 10

Ryan Finley, Arizona Daily Star: Arizona's new "Air Raid" offense was a success, with quarterback Willie Tuitama having a big game throwing the ball.

Jeff Metcalfe, Arizona Republic: Arizona State's offense was sluggish, with quarterback Rudy Carpenter completing 14 of 26 passes for 190 yards and no touchdowns.

Rusty Simmons, San Francisco Chronicle: California coach Jeff Tedford said of his offense, which returns eight starters: "We're nowhere close to where we need to be right now."

Craig Smith, Seattle Times: Defense was the story at Washington State, where several playmakers were out because of injuries.

Southeastern

Joseph Person, Columbia State: Perhaps the only good thing about South Carolina quarterback Blake Mitchell’s play is that it did not come against Georgia.

Robbie Andreu, Gainesville Sun: Tim Tebow showed he can throw the ball, leading coach Urban Meyer to say Florida looks capable of repeating as SEC champions.

Nate Allen, Northwest Arkansas Times: Finally, something happened on the field at Arkansas, where Darren McFadden's backup got to play.

Western Athletic

Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman: What did Boise State learn this spring? It is still searching for a quarterback.

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Reporters' Notebooks

Jeff Potrykus, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin and Learfield Communications are close to a $76 million deal that would extend the current agreement through June 30, 2019.

Joseph Person, Columbia State: South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says removing the Confederate flag from the State House grounds would "make us a more progressive, better state."

Matthew Thompson, Charleston Daily Mail: A West Virginia man has been cashing in on a championship shirt misspelling.

Norman Chad, For the Charleston Gazette: He's taxed as hell and not going to give it anymore.

USC Song Girls Take It Off for Charity

A member of the Trojan Haters Club could not have picked a better day to venture into the enemy camp. During the UCLA fan's trip to the USC campus Saturday, he made his way to USC's Swim Stadium, where officials were having a fundraiser for physically challenged athletes.

The headline event was a race between USC coach Pete Carroll and actor Will Ferrell (link to video). But imagine the surprise when the USC Song Girls appeared in bikinis! The photographer quickly went to work and shot over 1,000 images, and we have posted some of the best of the crop. Trojans Haters Club has the full photo spread, and the site will be adding more images throughout the week.

Arkansas' Cartoon Network

It hasn't been the best of weeks for Houston Nutt, and now a political satire cartoon titled "Orval" is taking shots at the Arkansas coach. The cartoon runs in the Arkansas Times, a weekly newspaper of politics and culture, and we have provided two recent entries in the series that deal with Nutt's relationship with athletic director Frank Broyles.

The top panel is the entry from April 12, and the main characters are Nutt and recently fired basketball coach Stan Heath. The bottom panel, from Jan. 25, deals directly with Nutt and Broyles. You can click on each cartoon to get a closer look or visit the links for a detailed examination. Our question: Does this fall within the limits of political satire, or is this — as they say — stepping over the line?

Last week's release of a 48-page document has ratcheted up the sparring between the pro-Nutt and anti-Nutt camps. On Friday night, Little Rock physical therapist Teresa Prewett, a friend of Nutt, released a statement apologizing for an email she wrote to Mitch Mustain in December that was critical of the freshman quarterback. Prewett took full responsibility for writing the letter, an apparent move to distance Nutt from allegations that he was behind the email. Mustain, the 2005 Gatorade and Parade prep player of the year, announced in January that he would transfer, and Nutt critics have pointed to Prewett's email as a key reason behind his departure. Mustain's expected destination is USC.

Also backpedaling was citizen journalist Thomas McAfee, a Razorback fan whose Freedom of Information request became the basis for the 48-page document that detailed more than 1,000 calls and text messages between Nutt and Fort Smith news anchor Donna Bragg in a two-month period, an average of more than 15 communications a day. Nutt's wife, Diana, issued a statement Wednesday night saying "Houston has not had an affair with Donna Bragg!"

McAfee, who has retained representation after receiving two threatening letters from Nutt attorney Byron Freeman, told the Searcy Daily Citizen that he did not author the 48-page document and that friends wrote the analysis and posted it on the Internet. Regardless, McAfee says his life has changed. "I don't see what I did was wrong, but I wish it hadn't turned out the way it had. ... People have sent mail cursing me and threatening me with bodily harm."

Nick the Prick?

The honeymoon is over. That little lovefest they were having in Alabama has ended. The question is, does anybody outside of two media members care?

Nick Saban, Alabama's $4-million-a-year man, cancelled an interview last weekend with CNNSI's Stewart Mandel, and he did it with style. Mandel reported that in canceling, Saban barked at an athletics department official, "I don't have time for this shit."

Mandel then called Saban a "jerk" in his article before smoothing things over by saying Saban is "exactly what the doctor ordered for the Alabama football program." Mandel and Saban have since worked things out.

Montgomery Advertiser columnist Josh Moon was not as kind to Saban after the coach refused to make players available to the media last week. Wrote Moon: "Let's be real here, Nick Saban's reputation is mostly hype. He was overrated at Michigan State, overrated at LSU and rated about right in Miami. He's an average coach who, through mostly media attention, has garnered this reputation of being a great coach."

Moon continued: "The worst part of it is Saban's unjustified sense of self-importance, as if he somehow isn't just a football coach. Oh, he can spin that and say he's molding young people, shaping youth or whatever. But the bottom line is that he's not saving the world out there on a football field. He's coaching a game."

Mobile Press-Register columnist Paul Finebaum defended Saban and said fans don't give a hoot about the media. "Newspapers are not held in nearly the regard of yesteryear. Besides, with talk radio, the Internet and everyone on your block having their own blog, there are myriad ways to get information faster than your daily newspaper. It may not be nearly as accurate, but hungry fans don't seem to really care anymore, as long as they get something, anything."

A Rocky Relationship at New Mexico

If you can't say anything nice, the best thing is to say nothing at all, or so it would appear.

The Albuquerque Journal reports that New Mexico coach Rocky Long's salary of $440,000 a year is the second-lowest in the nine-team Mountain West Conference. In comparison, new basketball coach Steve Alford just signed a six-year deal for $975,000 a year, more than double Long's salary.

Long was asked if he was being compensated fairly. "I have no comment about that," he said.

The Albuquerque Tribune reports that the university just finished spending more than $3.4 million to hire Alford and assistant Craig Neal, along with new president David Schmidly. And it appears officials didn't even get the domain FireSteveAlford.com, which just sold for $212.50 in an eBay auction.

Long might have allies in the academic community. The average annual salary for a full professor at New Mexico is $92,489.

Reporters' Notebooks

Brent Schrotenboer, San Diego Union-Tribune: The former landlord for Reggie Bush's parents has reached an undisclosed settlement agreement with the Bush family for alleged unpaid rent and other losses in a case still under investigation by the NCAA. Thanks to Mike!

Scott Cacciola, Commercial Appeal: Mississippi quarterback Cliff Davis quit the team after the spring game. "I gave it up since they didn't put me in the damn game," he said.

Kevin Horan, Daily Collegian: State College police have completed their investigation into an assault that involved several members of the Penn State team. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times: USC players and coaches voiced their approval after the NCAA rubber-stamped the rescinding of clock-rule changes that produced controversy last season.

Brent Schrotenboer, San Diego Union-Tribune: Qualcomm Stadium operating expenses for San Diego State games cost city taxpayers $124,869 more than the city earned in rent from the team.

Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman: Boise State's Bush Hamdan, who is competing to become the starting quarterback, was born in Kuwait.

Kyle Hightower, Orlando Sentinel: Central Florida is preparing to shorten its nickname from Golden Knights to Knights.

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Can You Hear Me Now?

No, we didn't go the way of Don Imus. Yes, the radio show is still in play. After giving up countless Friday nights/Saturday mornings, the Wiz and gang took last week off from "Sports Overnight America" on the fine Sports Byline USA Radio Network. We can't begin to describe the frolicking good time we had during last week's vacation because our attorney, the distinguished Irvin R. Shyster, has advised us not to talk about it. As they say, anything you say can and will be used against you. ...

And considering that Shyster ain't cheap, we really have no option but to return to the airwaves.

So join the Wiz Friday night at 11:40 (Pacific) by going to SportsByline.com and clicking on "Listen Live." Or tune in on the American Forces Network, heard in 177 countries and U.S. territories as well as Navy ships at sea. Last but not least, check the list of Sports Byline affiliates.

Times Must Be Tough in Lawrence

Somebody is allegedly forging checks belonging to Kansas coach Mark Mangino. The checks were taken March 30 from a vehicle belonging to Mangino that was parked outside a Subway restaurant in Lawrence.

Mangino's wife, Mary, told police that checks of $73.32 and $44.55 were forged between March 31 and April 10 at a Kwik Shop. In addition, police said three of Mangino's checks were written at Dillons stores in Lawrence on March 31 and April. 1. Those checks totaled about $34 each.

I don’t have any comment about it,” said Mangino, who signed a five-year contract in 2006 that will pay him at least $1.5 million per year.

Two Lawrence men were arrested on April 1 and charged in connection with several recent burglaries, including one to a vehicle belonging to Mangino. Police are not saying if the burglaries and forgeries are related.

Nutt's Wife Reportedly Issues Statement

The latest bizarre twist at Arkansas: Diana Nutt, wife of coach Houston Nutt, reportedly has released a letter backing her husband, who has once again come under criticism after a 48-page analysis of Nutt's phone records was posted anonymously on the Internet.

The site Hogs, Hill SEC posted Diana Nutt's letter: "I have lost track of the false allegations against Houston and the number of resignation/firing deadlines that have come and gone. ... And no, Houston has not had an affair with [Fort Smith news anchor] Donna Bragg!"

The letter continues: "Houston has always been a man of very high morals and integrity. He has always been the best father and husband and has strong Christian values! I think it is pathetic that I am even having to address issues like this."

This latest flareup started last week after records obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request by citizen journalist Thomas McAfee became available on the Internet. McAfee, a Razorback fan who works in Little Rock for Alltell, has since tried to distance himself from any responsibility of the Internet posting and hired an attorney after receiving a second threatening letter from Nutt attorney Byron Freeman.

Nutt has not commented on the 48-page document, which quickly churned its way through the Internet. Much of the focus has been on Nutt's communication with Bragg, which included more than 1,000 calls and text messages between the parties in a two-month period. The most scrutinized text message is one Nutt sent to Bragg 27 minutes before kickoff of the Capital One Bowl between Arkansas and Wisconsin. The Razorbacks lost, 17-14.

"He has reasons to communicate with this woman and it’s no business of anyone else’s what those reasons are," Freeman said.

The Arkansas Times, which reported last week that university had since moved to shut down Freedom of Information access to athletic department phones by moving accounts to the private Razorback Foundation, now says that report was incorrect. "The records are not being moved, university officials said. The NCAA must be provided access to coaches’ phone records and text messages to enforce recruiting rules."

In other words, you have not heard the end of this.

Reporters' Notebooks

Kyle Ringo, Daily Camera: Thomas Perez, the bruising running back Colorado desperately needs, won't be part of the team this fall because of poor academic performance.

Tim Griffin, San Antonio Express-News: Big 12 officials announced that the conference's title game at the Alamodome will start in the prime-time slot of 7 p.m.

Kent Baker, Baltimore Sun: Navy has reached an agreement with the Poinsettia Bowl that will send the Midshipmen to the game in San Diego provided the team qualifies with at least six victories.

Pat Harty, Iowa City Press-Citizen: Coach Kirk Ferentz talks sarcastically about Iowa being a "basketball school."

Uga Between the Hedges

Georgia's spring game would not be complete without an appearance by Uga VI, who prowled the sidelines Saturday at Sanford Stadium. An announced crowd of 21,407 gathered to watch the festivities, including readers Roger, who supplied the photos, and his friend Harpreet, who suggested sending them to the Wiz. Brilliant idea!

It was 43 with gusty winds at kickoff — 14 degrees colder than any home kickoff last season — but that didn't stop a Georgia cheerleader, left, from exposing her midriff to the elements.

Quarterback Matthew Stafford, below, finds a passing lane through the defense, which struggled for much of the game. Tailback Kregg Lumpkin carried 13 times for 53 yards and a touchdown, and safety Reshad Jones had an interception. The dance team also had a chance to show off their moves.

If you have photos from your team's spring game and would like to share them with our audience, please send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: USC, Auburn.

Reporters' Notebooks

Rick Herrin, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: Help is on the way for Oklahoma. Texas State quarterback Chase Wasson has been granted a special waiver by the NCAA and will be eligible to play this fall for the Sooners.

B.G. Brooks, Rocky Mountain News: Things we didn't know about Colorado coach Dan Hawkins. He went skydiving last offseason and will run a marathon in Australia this offseason.

Chip Scoggins, Jeff Shelman and Dennis Brackin, Minneapolis Star Tribune: Minnesota defensive end Robert McField is facing a 12-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to second-degree robbery and armed criminal action.

Ron Morris, Columbia State: Urban Meyer might be the new hero in town, but it was Steve Spurrier who brought a winning attitude to Gainesville.

Tom Kirkendall: Exorbitant salaries for coaches and allegations of point-shaving by players. It's all tied together by the NCAA's regulation of player compensation.

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Bower Site Links to Mental Health Domain

Somebody would appear to have it out for Southern Mississippi coach Jeff Bower. The URL FireJeffBower.com redirects you to MentalWellness.com, which is a site for bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and mental health. The owner of FireJeffBower.com is anonymous, but we can tell you that the URL was purchased on Oct. 20, 2006. We'd like to hear from the owner and promise to keep his/her identity a secret, so if you read this and can somehow prove to us that you are the owner, we want to tell the world what the shenanigans are all about.

Reporters' Notebooks

David Chanen and Bob von Sternberg, Minneapolis Star Tribune: Three Minnesota players who were jailed in a rape investigation were released.

Tom Belden, Philadelphia Inquirer: A college kicker and an engineering student have invented a mechanical device that drops the ball into place so that the kicker can practice the precise timing needed to step into the kick.

Heather A. Dinich, Baltimore Sun: Offensive lineman Antonio Logan-El will ask for his release from Penn State. He could be headed to Maryland.

Sara Israelsen, Deseret Morning News: Two Brigham Young players were suspended after they were arrested following a water-balloon incident Saturday night.

Encarnacion Pyle, Columbus Dispatch: A couple from Columbus has named their newborn son Tressel Hayes after coach Jim Tressel and the legendary Woody Hayes.

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This Man Is Not to Be Trifled With

One look at linebacker Rey Maualuga tells you this is one nasty, nasty player. USC held its spring game Saturday, and Maualuga was buzzing around the L.A. Coliseum tattooing ball carrier after ball carrier. With talent like this — along with the new crop of Song Girls — it's easy to see why the Trojans are expect nothing less than a national title this fall.
Quarterback John David Booty was sharp, completing 15 of 17 passes for two touchdowns, including this toss to Patrick Turner. Coach Pete Carroll can be seen trailing the play.You never know what delights might spring up at a USC game. Example: the photo to the right. ... Former USC running backs were also in abundance. That's Petros Papadakis, below left, who is a radio personality at KLAC and a TV analyst for Fox Sports. Anthony Davis, below right, scored six touchdowns in the 1974 game against Notre Dame. He's a real estate developer who underwent gastric bypass surgery in March 2006. Unlike Crewcut Charlie Weis, Davis' surgery appears to have been a success.

Charles White, below left in the second set of photos, was the 1979 Heisman Trophy winner for USC. Future Trojan running back Mark Tyler was spotted talking to a reporter. He is the son of former UCLA running back Wendell Tyler. And Arkansas fans take note: Mitch Mustain, your former quarterback, also was in attendance. This was Mustain's second visit to USC and it's all but a lock that he will become a Trojan.
Beefy defensive tackle Averell Spicer, below, spent considerable time signing autographs. Check out the large "SC" tattoo on his right bicep. Fans also lined up outside the Coliseum to get autographs, and Booty, bottom photo, was among the most popular players.
If you have photos from your team's spring game and would like to share them with our audience, please send them to dawizofodds (at) aol.com. Previous spring game coverage: Auburn.

Spring Reports

Georgia: The Bulldogs' first-string defense gave up five scoring drives. "Horrible," senior safety Kelin Johnson said.

Georgia Tech: The Yellow Jackets' No. 1 offense got the ball 10 times. It scored every time. "We've progressed tremendously," new quarterback Taylor Bennett said

Minnesota: This is not how coach Tim Brewster envisioned his first spring game, with three Gopher players in jail after being arrested in connection with a rape investigation.

Miami: Same old stuff under new coach Randy Shannon: defense crushing offense, mediocre quarterbacking, bland play calling (in this case by design).

Mississippi: Seth Adams appears to have edged ahead of Brent Schaeffer in the battle to become the starter at quarterback.

Oklahoma: No Adrian Peterson? No problem. The Sooner run game appears solid. Now, about the quarterbacking ...

Texas: Coach Mack Brown had nothing but praise for his receivers, saying "this is the best group ... we've had since I've been here."

Vanderbilt: Quarterback Chris Nickson was more comfortable this spring than last spring, when he stepped in for Jay Cutler.

West Virginia: Snow, cold, wind and a plenty of passing during the Mountaineers' spring finale.

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Reporters' Notebooks

Andy Staples, Tampa Tribune: Florida coach Urban Meyer has a problem with his players possessing semiautomatic rifles.

Tom Witosky, Des Moines Register: Iowa's association with a casino and state lottery promotion has caught the attention of the NCAA.

Indianapolis Star: Purdue coach Joe Tiller: "I'm tired of blogging and guys talking about our practices, and postings, and all that [stuff]. It's more problems than it is value."

Rich Kaipust, Omaha World-Herald: Nebraska players are having trouble understanding quarterback Sam Keller in the huddle.

Hogs, Hill, SEC: Arkansas coach Houston Nutt: "I'm not resigning and I'm not fired. Spread the word." ... OK, we will.

Our continued thanks to Hester Graphics for their help with the site.

The Wiz Now Banned in China

Not sure what we've done to deserve this, but our humble little site has been banned in the People's Republic of China! Granted, college football might not be a big thing up and down the Yangtze River, but we're always interested in spreading the gospel of college football.

We get our information from the Great Firewall of China, which allows you to check any URL's availability in China. We checked both of ours — TheWizardofOdds.Blogspot.com and TheWizofOdds.com — and both were blocked. If anybody in China is able to break through the firewall, drop us a line at dawizofodds (at) aol.com.

Thanks to College Football Resource for the tip.

Penn State Letter Asks for Forgiveness

State College police are examining an anonymous letter that was slipped under the door of the residents of an apartment where an assault occurred last weekend that reportedly involves several members of the Penn State team.

"I want you to realize that you have the power now to press charges or drop them. Legally, the ball is in your hands. However, you can be a hero in this situation and forgive the attackers for what they have done. There is no question that what they did was wrong, and now you can show them the mercy they failed to show you. This isn't about payback, this is about doing what is good for everyone," states the letter, which is signed "The voice of the Penn State student body."

"We're very concerned about the letter," Penn State assistant vice president Bill Mahon told the Centre Daily Times. "It seems to me to be an attempt to intimidate the victim of a crime."

The five-paragraph letter also states that, "Joe Paterno is almost inevitably on his way out soon and he probably does not want to deal with this issue during his last years." The letter listed Penn State athletic director Tim Curley's contact information and encouraged the recipients to set up a meeting with him to mediate a solution. Curley declined comment.

Penn State message boards have been ablaze over the incident and many posters have been critical of the individuals who went to the police after the assault. According to the Daily Collegian, the names and university email addresses of two students involved with the investigation were posted on one site only to be removed a few hours later.

Paterno addressed the team about the incident Wednesday but has yet to make a public comment. State College chief of police Tom King estimates it would be at least seven to 10 days before official action will be taken.

You can read the letter by clicking here. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Doesn't Look Like a Navigator to Us

Former Oklahoma walk-on player Jermaine Hardison, who is accused of being paid for work he didn't perform at Norman's Big Red Motorsports, regularly brought home dealership cars for personal use, a former roommate told the Dallas Morning News.

Logan Brosky said that he roomed with Hardison for about a year and that Hardison, along with several other Sooner players, were employed by Big Red.

"They'd just sit there and not do anything and let the Mexicans do all the detailing," Brosky said. "They'd clock in and go eat."

Oklahoma is scheduled to appear before the NCAA Infractions Committee next week regarding the association players had with Big Red. The inquiry began last fall after quarterback Rhett Bomar and J.D. Quinn were dismissed from the university in August after they had been paid for hours they did not work at the Norman dealership. That incident followed one last April involving star running back Adrian Peterson's use of a Lexus from Big Red.

Oklahoma officials told the NCAA Bomar and Quinn were the only players guilty of taking money they didn't earn from Big Red, but the NCAA found a third player. Oklahoma initially denied the charge, but in its official response last month to the NCAA allegations, Oklahoma acknowledged a third player was involved.

Brosky told Gary Jacobson of the Morning News that he particularly remembers a Lincoln Navigator that Hardison drove for about a month. Brosky said Hardison was upset when he had to return the Navigator to Big Red. "Every two to three weeks he had a different car," Brosky said.

Brad McRae, the booster at the center of the excessive-pay scheme, told the paper he had no knowledge what was happening. Some registration required. Thanks to Jeremie at 1430 the Buzz in Tulsa.

Cyclones' Bolt Has Lost 252 Pounds in Year

You would not recognize Iowa State defensive coordinator Wayne Bolt if you remember him from his days at Alabama Birmingham. Bolt announced this week he has lost an astounding 252 pounds in a year.

Bolt, 51, saw his weight balloon to 500 pounds. He wore a size 66 pant, size six extra-large shirt, had high blood pressure and diabetes. "I could barely move. I couldn't walk and everything hurt," he said. "I knew I had to do something about my weight."

Bolt decided to undergo gastric-bypass surgery, but at 500 pounds, he was too heavy for the procedure. His doctor told him to lose 50 pounds beforehand. He lost 45 and had the procedure, which is similar to the "botched" surgery that has Notre Dame coach Crewcut Charlie Weis in litigation.

"Surgery is a tool. It’s only a tool," he said. "Some people try to tell me it’s a crutch for weight-loss. That’s not true. You have to want to do it. I can tell the kids I coach that they need to watch their weight, but in the end, they have to want to do something about it.”

Bolt is off all medications and although he still uses his sleep apnea machine, he hopes to discard it soon. "It's been a good run for me," he said. "I decided to get my life in order." Thanks to Steroid Nation. Top photo from ISU Athletics Communications.

Nutt Again Under the Microscope

Arkansas coach Houston Nutt reportedly made inquiries about recent job openings at Miami and North Carolina State and was in frequent contact with Fort Smith news anchor Donna Bragg, according to a 48-page pdf document posted on the Internet.

Randy Rainwater of Little Rock radio station 103.7 The Buzz first reported the existence of the document during his "Drivetime Sports" show Wednesday. Word quickly spread. Among sites reporting details include the Arkansas Times, Journalism Is for Rockstars, EDSBS and LittleBlog. The document was first brought to our attention by Jeremie at 1430 The Buzz in Tulsa.

Thomas McAfee, described as "a concerned supporter of the Razorback athletic program," is reportedly behind the document, which contains information — mainly phone records and times and dates of text messages — obtained by Freedom of Information Act requests from the University of Arkansas.

Given the intensity of the anti-Nutt movement that has been chronicled here (search "Arkansas" at the top of our site), and the lack of independent confirmation of much of the material, we have merely linked to the often rambling document that also contains a threatening letter from a Little Rock attorney to McAfee. The university has since moved to shut down Freedom of Information access to athletic department phones by moving accounts to the private Razorback Foundation. The legality of this move is unclear, according to the Arkansas Times.

What does all this mean to Nutt and Arkansas? We will be surprised to see much become of it, but as stated earlier, don't be surprised to see Nutt leave Arkansas at season's end.

Reporters' Notebooks

The Daily Collegian: Penn State coach Joe Paterno addressed the team regarding alleged involvement by some players in an assault at an apartment.

Scott Wolf, L.A. Daily News: Reggie Bush's representative, Mike Ornstein, says reports of the running back being banned from the Playboy Mansion are wrong.

Bob Condotta, Seattle Times: Too late for Oklahoma. The Pacific 10 Conference has hired a new coordinator of football officiating.

John E. Hoover, Tulsa World: Former Oklahoma offensive lineman J.D. Quinn says his dismissal last year from the team for taking money was "harsh."

Dave Hickman, Charleston Gazette: An angry West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez told his offense, "Our defense could walk off the field and it would still take us more than 10 plays to score."

Eddie Robinson: 1919-2007

Eddie Robinson, who won 408 games in 55 seasons at Grambling State and sent more than 200 players to the NFL, has died after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 88. Past classic coaches videos: Bear Bryant, Woody Hayes, Hayden Fry, Lou Holtz, Bobby Ross, Dan Devine, Gary Barnett, Pat Dye, Terry Bowden and Jim Tressel.

Penn State Players Involved in Fracas?

Year 41 of the Joe Paterno Era appears to be off to a rough and tumble start. Police in State College are sorting out an "apartment assault" early Sunday morning that allegedly involves several members of the Penn State team.

No charges have been filed but residents of the apartment told the Daily Collegian they plan on pressing charges.

A "street confrontation" appears to have started the incident, which police say "led to the trespass and assault." A Penn State student who hosted the party told the Centre Daily Times that he denied entrance to several of the men, but then 10 or more appeared and "pushed their way in" and the assaults began.

The party host, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told the men to " 'Leave, leave, leave.' They just walked right in. They were pushing people out of the way. These guys were huge. I was being held back in the hallway by some dude who was huge."

He said "two kids" seated on stools at the bar in the apartment's main room "got the worst of it." One was struck on the head with a bottle, he said, and another got a swollen, black-and-blue eye. Another person was kicked in the head as he lay "in the fetal position" on the floor, and two others were punched in the face. He said the intrusion lasted "like three minutes" and then the intruders departed. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Stanford's Harbaugh: 'We Bow to No Man'

Let the pissing match begin. Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh ticked off Pete Carroll last week when he said the USC coach was planning to leave the Trojans after this season. Carroll wasted little time in firing back: "If he's going to make statements like that, he ought to get his information right. And if he has any questions about it he should call me."

Harbaugh was asked this week if he had been misquoted. "It's been widely publicized that he has interviewed for other jobs, and that is what I've heard. I definitely said that. But we bow to no man. We bow to no program here at Stanford University."

Harbaugh was asked if he had talked with Carroll to smooth over the growing rift. "I don't have any questions about his future."

Harbaugh begins his first spring practice with the Cardinal on Wednesday. Stanford is coming off a 1-11 season and plays at USC on Oct. 6. Thanks to Bruce!

NCAA Crashing Johnson's Wedding

Trouble already for college football's No. 1 couple, Boise State running back Ian Johnson and his cheerleader fiancee Chrissy Popadics. Their celebrity wedding is set for July 28 in Boise, but if you're thinking about getting the couple a gift, think again.

NCAA rules will bar Johnson and Popadics from accepting free services or discounted pricing not available to the general public. The Boise State coaching staff can give gifts, but only if they do the same for all of their players who invite them to weddings.

Boosters? Forget about it. Western Athletic Conference commissioner for compliance Anthony Archbald said boosters should not give gifts at all.

Last year, the star tailback's crochet business caught the attention of the NCAA. Johnson was forced to shut it down because NCAA regulations prohibit athletes from using their name or likeness to promote or sell commercial goods.

Reporters' Notebooks

Don Williams, Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Texas Tech is suddenly down to only three quarterbacks on its spring roster.

Rich Kaipust, Omaha World-Herald: Nebraska is hiking ticket prices to a per-game average of $52, still trailing Big 12 leader Oklahoma State at $59.80.

Jeff Metcalfe, Arizona Republic: Arizona State quarterback Rudy Carpenter said he played last season with fractures in both hands.

John Moredich, Tucson Citizen: When Arizona is in a hole, the Wildcats plan to dig their way out with the shovel pass.

Jeff Smith, Oregonian: Oregon, trying to rebound from a 7-6 season that ended with four consecutive losses, opened spring drills with a punishing practice.

Tom Kubat, Lafayette Journal and Courier: Purdue receiver Selwyn Lymon, who suffered a stab wound to the upper chest on Friday, was released from the hospital.

Bush Banned From Playboy Mansion?

Former USC and Heisman Trophy winning tailback Reggie Bush has been banned from the Playboy Mansion, according to Scott Wolf of the L.A. Daily News.

Writes Wolf: "Our spies tell us former USC tailback Reggie Bush is persona non grata at the Playboy Mansion because of a conduct violation. And no, it was nothing involving a Playmate."

Bush, of course, is now a Saint. A New Orleans Saint. But it appears even a Saint can be sinner.

Speaking of sinning, we'd love to get in touch with a Playmate to get the inside scoop, so if you're out there, the Wiz is waiting for you! Thanks to Mike for sending this our way.

And remember to check out the rest of our site.

Louisiana State: Best Big Rig in the Land

If you ever see Louisiana State's big rig rolling down the road, you won't forget it. With vivid graphics that adorn the trailer, a matching Peterbilt tractor and aluminum wheels front to back, this is one styling rig. It's easy to see why our readers made it a runaway winner in our poll to determine the best college football big rig.

The trailer was put together by Jackson Truck & Trailer of Kenner, La., and it includes a 6,600-pound liftgate for loading/offloading at locations that do not have a loading dock. Sales manager Greg Bucher points out that "not one penny of student tuition was spent on the trailer, as stated in the LSU Sports article. The trailer was paid for by the LSU Tiger Athletic Foundation and donated to the university in 2004." At that time, cost of the trailer was approximately $40,000. Bucher said his business also builds trailers for national companies like Coca Cola and Target and he's interested in marketing trailers to other schools.
The details on the graphics are magnificent. If you look close at the above photo, you'll see the field has yard makers every five yards, part of the unique feature of LSU's Death Valley. The graphics were designed by the LSU athletic department and installed by Color-1 graphics.
Arnold Springer, standing next the the tractor, and Bobby Duke are the drivers. Springer tells us driving the rig is quite the experience. "I can not tell you how many times that I have had my photo taken while driving down the interstate and in rest areas or at fuel stops, let alone at the games. One of the amazing things that we
find is how many opponent's fans want their picture taken
with the truck."

The tractor is leased by the univerisity from Glen Elrod of PacLease/Peterbilt of Louisiana located in Baton Rouge. The cab is customized, of course, even down to the dashboard, which is affixed with a reminder of the 2003 national championship team.
Here again is the link to our poll, our runnerup big rig from Penn State, and links to recently featured rigs: Wisconsin and Texas, Texas Tech, Mississippi and Army, Oregon, Colorado, Nevada and Iowa.

And a look back at the rigs that were featured in the poll. Oklahoma, North Carolina State, Texas Tech, Nebraska, Alabama, Ohio State, Texas A&M and Penn State, Michigan, Iowa and California.

Previous polls:
Classless Acts of the 2006 Season
Cheapest Shots of the Year
And remember to check out the rest of the site.

We Present the Big Rig Runnerup

A week ago, we posted our poll for best big rig and at last count, over 9,000 readers voted. Although voting continues, we're confident of the top two finishers, and we will honor each, beginning today with the runnerup from Penn State.

Much like the Miss America contest, if the winner is unable to fulfill all of the duties associated with being named big rig of the year or is relieved of its duties, the runnerup will be asked to step in.

What are the duties you ask? Maintaining a safe driving record, not traveling with a heavy load, having proper paperwork on hand at all times and generally not doing anything that could besmirch the good name of the university or the Wiz.

Take another look at the beautiful Penn State rig. According to Kevin of We Are Penn State, the Nittany Lions — no doubt miffed over finishing second — are already making improvements for 2007, adding a new blue truck, below, to better match the snazzy trailer.

On Tuesday, we will honor our winner, Louisiana State.

Playing It Cool

Stanford's football team needs all the help it can get, and research scientist Dennis Grahn, left, and professor Craig Heller are doing all they can to get the Cardinal back up and running.

Knowing that athletes tend to overheat, which in turn limits performance, the men have developed a method for cooling that maximizes heat transfer through a player's palms. The device is called the Core Control.

Here's how it works. The palm, a natural radiator point, is placed over a water-cooled steel plate inside a vacuum chamber. The suction then draws the warm blood from the body's core out to the palm, where the plate cools it.

Grahn and Heller say the system is believed to be better than cooling off with a bucket of ice. Biologists say ice would be counterproductive because extreme cold causes blood vessels to contract, restricting blood flow. Photo courtesy of Stanford Report.

Reporters' Notebooks

Lee Higgins and Joe Person, Columbia State: The brother of South Carolina defensive tackle Nathan Pepper was arrested outside Williams-Brice Stadium and charged with murder. Thanks to the Midwest Correspondent.

Ron Morris, Columbia State: Clemson coach Tommy Bowden addresses the negativity surrounding his program.

Mark Fagan, Lawrence Journal-World: Moving this season’s Kansas-Missouri game to Arrowhead Stadium will cost Kansas, Douglas County and the city of Lawrence a combined $713,000.

Jim Carty, Ann Arbor News: Has Adrian Arrington been booted from the Michigan team? There appears to be wiggle room for his return.

Tom Kubat, Lafayette Journal and Courier: A myriad of problems for Purdue coach Joe Tiller, who is trying to unravel events surrounding the stabbing of receiver Selwyn Lymon.

Mitch Vingle, Charleston Gazette: Is hotshot running back recruit Noel Devine a great pickup or a gamble for West Virginia?

Ted Miller, Seattle Post-Intelligencer: The Pacific 10 appears to be as deep as it has been in years, so don't expect USC to have an easy path to the BCS title game.

R.J. Morgan, Commercial Appeal: Mississippi State coach Sylvester Croom says his team needs to work on conditioning now that spring practice has concluded.

Ryan Callahan, Tennessean: Tennessee's lack of offense during its spring game is a concern to coach Phillip Fulmer.

FBI Says the Fix Was In at Toledo

Was the 2005 GMAC Bowl fixed along with other games involving the Toledo Rockets? The FBI says yes and has charged Toledo running back Harvey McDougle, right, with conspiring with others in a points-shaving scheme.

Toledo has suspended McDougle from the team and no other Rocket players have been identified, so it remains unclear how many other players might be involved. If convicted, McDougle could face five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

There was no indication that players purposely lost any game, but that they controlled the final scores to enabled a Michigan man identified as "Gary" to win his bets. McDougle is alleged to have asked Gary, identified as Gary Manni of Sterling Heights by the Detroit Free Press, to place a $2,000 bet on the GMAC Bowl.

Manni is alleged to have taken Toledo athletes to dinner and financed their gambling at Detroit casinos after initially becoming friends with Rocket player at a cellular phone store.

McDougle, a junior last season, carried the ball only eight times for 49 yards. His best season came in 2004, when he led the team in rushing with 620 yards and seven touchdowns. He suffered a knee injury in the Rockets' 35-27 victory against Miami in the Mid-American Conference championship game that season and had reconstructive surgery.

He played sparingly on special teams early in 2005 before receiving a medical redshirt, but has struggled with weight issues since injuring the knee.

WTO Says U.S. Gambling Ban Illegal

The World Trade Organization, the only global international organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations, says the U.S. ban on offshore Internet gambling is illegal.

It was a victory for Antigua, the smallest government ever to lodge a WTO complaint. The Caribbean nation of 80,000 people challenged Bush administration efforts to close the estimated $12 billion global business to U.S. residents. The U.S. banned credit card companies from processing payments to betting sites.

To avoid the penalties, the U.S. government would have to either permit Americans to gamble over foreign-based sites or eliminate exceptions for off-track betting on horses, including over the Internet, as permitted under the 1978 Interstate Horseracing Act. U.S. officials are likely to appeal. Thanks to Mark.

A Sport More Dangerous Than Football?

Emergency room visits for cheerleading injuries nationwide have more than doubled since the early 1990s, far outpacing the growth in the number of cheerleaders, and the rate of life-threatening injuries has startled researchers, the New York Times reports.

Of 104 catastrophic injuries sustained by female high school and college athletes from 1982 to 2005 — head and spinal trauma that occasionally led to death — more than half resulted from cheerleading, according to the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research. All sports combined did not surpass cheerleading.

There were 22,900 cheerleading-related injuries treated in emergency rooms in 2002, up from 10,900 in 1990, according to a study. The Consumer Product Safety Commission, meanwhile, reported there were nearly six times as many emergency room visits for cheerleaders in 2004 than in 1980. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.