Reporters' Notebooks

Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Texas Tech has suspended contract talks with Mike Leach. Athletic director Gerald Myers, citing a need to be fiscally responsible, says he can't negotiate a new deal until after the season.

Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman: It's a dirty job, but somebody has to do it. At Boise State, equipment manager Dale Holste is responsible for doing 300 pounds of laundry a day.

Jake Trotter, Oklahoman: Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione wants to patch things up with Nebraska. The last time the Cornhuskers played at Owen Field, Bill Callahan hollered "hillbillies" as stormed off the field after a 30-3 beating in 2004.

Kyle Neddenriep, Indianapolis Star: Indiana a football state? While the state may never shed its reputation as basketball country, those who have watched the evolution of the two sports over decades say football is closing the gap between the sports in popularity and prestige.

Syracuse Post-Standard: Syracuse kicker John Barker has been suspended indefinitely for "conduct detrimental to the team."

Associated Press: A West Virginia woman has obtained a patent on an interesting product called "WV 'Fan'cy Gloves."

Richard D. Lee, Tuscaloosa News: Alabama senior running back/kick returner Jonathan Lowe is not part of the Crimson Tide’s 105-man practice roster and is not expected to return any time soon.

Chris Cox, Daily Gamecock: South Carolina has reinstated quarterback Stephen Garcia 14 days earlier than planned.

Lauren Epps, Manhattan Mercury: John Jacob Houlik, a linebacker for Kansas State, was arrested on DUI charges.

Alex Abrams, Springdale Morning News: Dismissed Arkansas linebacker Freddie Fairchild faces new criminal charges after police say he ran from an officer and threw away a bag of marijuana.

Deseret News: Junior quarterback Jase McCormick has left the Utah State team because of personal reasons.

Heisman Pundit: A look at several freshmen who could make quite an impact this fall.

College Football Resource: Check out the snazzy, new look!

Here is today's mystery link. Thanks to Tom Kirkendall.