Reporters' Notebooks

Iliana Limon, Orlando Sentinel: The father of Central Florida player Ereck Plancher, speaking for the first time since his son's funeral, expressed concern about the family's distant relationship with the school and said he was concerned about a "cover up."

Drew Edwards and Dave Hooker, Knoxville News-Sentinel: Tennessee will begin charging students for football tickets, leaving South Carolina and Vanderbilt as the only Southeastern Conference schools that admit students into games for free. Plus, Volunteer quarterback Jonathan Crompton will have elbow surgery to remove a loose particle in his right (throwing) elbow.

Randy King, Roanoke Times: Kenny Lewis, expected to replace Branden Ore as Virginia Tech's No. 1 tailback, will undergo surgery for a torn labrum in his left shoulder and is expected to be sidelined for four to six months.

Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times: Pete Carroll is concerned about crowds attending USC's open practices. His main worry is for kids who are sometimes roaming the sidelines unattended.

Jake Trotter, Oklahoman: Former Oklahoma receiver Malcolm Kelly went on a radio station and apologized for publicly ripping the Sooner strength staff after his pro day.

Jorge Milian, Palm Beach Post: The spring game has become so popular in some places that it's turning a profit. In some cases a huge profit.

Waco Tribune-Herald: Baylor coach Art Briles will be inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame next month.

Eric Hansen, South Bend Tribune: Crewcut Charlie Weis will be cheering on Notre Dame Saturday night when the Fighting Irish try to win the NCAA hockey championship against Boston College in Denver.

Eleven Warriors: Ohio State defensive backs Donald Washington, Jamario O'Neal and Eugene Clifford did not take part in practice drills. There are rumors their playing careers could go up in smoke.

Jeff McLane, Philadelphia Inquirer: Penn State defensive tackle Phil Taylor accepted sanctions from the university’s Office of Judicial Affairs for his involvement in a fight at the HUBRobeson Center in October. Taylor, along with two other players, are awaiting trial on assault charges.

Steroid Nation: The Wiz has been accused of juicing.