Reporters' Notebooks

Bob Condotta, Seattle Times: Running back J.R. Hasty, considered the plum of Tyrone Willingham's first recruiting class at Washington, and cornerback Jordan Murchison did not have their scholarships renewed.

Paul Finebaum, Mobile Press-Register: Is Alabama getting a good return on its Nick Saban investment? The Crimson Tide were 7-6 in 2007 and after yet another disastrous week, patience is wearing thin.

Mike Perrin, Birmingham News: In 1991, the NCAA banned athletics dormitories. Now, no more than 49% of the population of a dorm, or a wing, or even a floor of university housing, can be athletes. But does this make it impossible for coaches to monitor their players?

Donnie Webb, Syracuse Post-Standard: Yet another Syracuse player has been suspended because of academic issues. Defensive end Brandon Gilbeaux will not play this fall.

Berry Tramel, Oklahoman: Oklahoma State's average home attendance in 2007 was 39,857, but with Boone Pickens Stadium now expanded to 60,000, the pressure is on Mike Gundy to put fans in the seats.

Kyle Ringo, Boulder Daily Camera: Colorado fans sense a team on the rise. Athletic director Mike Bohn said 92% of season-ticket holders had renewed and that 41 suites in Folsom Field are sold out.

Dave Matter, Columbia Tribune: When former Iowa Hawkeye Bob Stoops became Oklahoma’s coach almost decade ago, a branch of the Hayden Fry coaching tree took root in Norman. Since then, Stoops’ branch has blossomed into a giant sequoia.

Rick Bozich, Louisville Courier-Journal: No need to go to the newsstand and buy all the preseason magazines. Here's a capsule look at what they have to say.

Ray Buck, Fort Worth Star-Telegram: The Heisman Trophy fraternity has reached out to Ricky Williams, who will try to resume his playing career this fall with the Miami Dolphins.

Associated Press: Former Quarterback Jamelle Holieway, who led Oklahoma to a national championship in 1985, was jailed in Eufaula, Okla., because of outstanding traffic warrants.

Craig Smith, Seattle Times: Washington State backup quarterback Cole Morgan is transferring to Western Washington in search of playing time.

Rob Oller, Columbus Dispatch: The Terrelle Pryor fallout: Ohio State backup quarterback Antonio Henton is transferring to Georgia Southern.

Ferd Lewis, Honolulu Advertiser: Hawaii will discount tickets in selected locations at Aloha Stadium in an effort to boost sales in a declining economy.

Jennifer Thomas, Centre Daily Times: Former Penn State linebacker LaVar Arrington is getting into the restaurant/bar business in State College. Thanks to Kevin of We Are Penn State.

Here is today's mystery link. Thanks to Jim of Erratic Magic.