Ramon Hernandez Does Opening Day

((HT: FSOhio/MLB/youtube))

The Milwaukee Brewers seemingly had the Cincinnati Reds right where they wanted them in the bottom of the ninth in their season opener...

Except, the Reds had the Brewers right where they wanted them...
Evidence below...


The HQ is quite sure that North HQ heard the fireworks from the office on the 21st floor...

Mark Emmert Is Thinking About It...

((HT: Frontline/PBS))

The new head of the NCAA, Mark Emmert, is this/close to admitting that his organization should be paying athletes...

And the HQ thinks that as soon as Messrs. Keller and O'Bannon et al. win their case against the NCAA for the usage of their likenesses and not getting reimbursed for it, the end game will be the addition of the stipend to an athletic scholarship.

Emmert had to say something to cover his sport's collective tookas... and he did it on PBS...

The only issue then will be determining if non-revenuers get the same as revenuers when it comes to their stipending. And THAT won't be a new fire to put out, will it...???

Here's Part One of the "Frontline" special "Money and March Madness" where Emmert looks like he got blindsided...

Watch the full episode. See more FRONTLINE.

Manny Malhotra Injury Update

((HT: CBCNewsNetwork/youtube))

Canucks faceoff specialist Manny Malhotra has gone through his second surgery to try and save his eye after he was hit by a deflected puck two weeks ago.

The team issued a statement in part: "Manny Malhotra’s health continues to be the primary concern of the hockey club. Progress updates will be made available at the appropriate time. No further comment is planned at this time."

The Vancouver Sun reveals that Malhotra underwent surgery in New York with Dr. Stanley Chang. Chang reattached Bryan Berard's retina after his injury in 2000. But it took another seven surgeries before Berard could play again...

Something similar is expected if Malhotra will even be allowed to play...

Here's HeatherHiscox and Nabil Karim with your update...

OSG High: HS Baseball Players Kicked Off Team For Chicken Sacrifice

Police in the Dallas area are investigating whether two high school baseball players sacrificed chickens in a bid to try and "improve their games."

Police in the town of Benbrook released a police report saying a 15- and 16-year-old "engaged in acts that caused the death of two baby chickens. It appears that superstition relating to a slump in baseball performance could have played a part."

Western Hills High School ((TX)) baseball coach Bobby McIntire says he has not had a chance to talk to the students about the "why." He told the Fort Worth Star-Telegram that "baseball is very superstitious" and the idea possibly came from movies...

School officials say the boys have been kicked off the team.

And the HQ knows exactly where they got the idea...
((HT: Orion Pictures/youtube))


But the first problem was that the high schoolers, allegedly, killed baby chickens. They needed to be adults to get the hex off their gloves, but the Bulls had to settle for a bucket of fried chicken. The athletes were not paying attention...

Focus, boys... focus...

Bonds Day 8: Down To Three

((HT: KGO-TV))

The Feds are down to their last three witnesses in the Bonds perjury trial.

Bonds' orthopedic surgeon Dr. Arthur Ting is first- probably after the court reads a transcript of Bonds' 2003 grand jury appearance.

After Ting, the government was expected to call pre-eminent anti-doping expert Don Catlin and Bonds former personal shopper Kathy Hoskins. Prosecutors have said Hoskins will testify that she once saw Bonds' personal trainer Greg Anderson inject him with some unknown substance. Bonds' defense team is going to paint Hoskins as a disgruntled ex-employee.

Of course, no one knows exactly what the substance was and since Anderson won't testify, we still won't know.

Here's your morning update...

Gene Chizik Is Mad As Hell At HBO, Jay Jacobs May Be As Well... But He's Being Diplomatic About It...

Auburn head coach Gene Chizik goes off on HBO. (Thanks The Birmingham News)



AD Jacobs put out a correspondence, that politely expressed the University's concerns...

Jacobs Sayeth Quote... Ahem...

As you have probably heard or read by now, HBO will air a segment on "The State of College Athletics" tonight at 9 p.m. CT. It will be a part of the cable channel's regular "Real Sports With Bryant Gumble (sic)" show.

An HBO producer contacted Auburn Athletics seeking a comment on claims made by several former Auburn football players who said they received improper benefits either while at Auburn or while being recruited to Auburn during the previous football staff's tenure here.

While HBO's producer conceded the network had "no proof" any of the claims are true, the producer indicated the network still intended to run the interviews as part of its “State of College Athletics” piece.

We declined to be interviewed by HBO, but the following statement was provided to the show’s producer last week.

“Auburn Athletics respectfully declines to comment on these alleged claims apparently made by a few former football players. Compliance with all NCAA and Southeastern Conference rules is a major emphasis and top priority for all of our athletic programs at Auburn University.”

** In addition, we have just released the following statement from me to the media.

"We are aware that four former football players have made allegations against Auburn. While HBO confirmed to us they have no proof that any of these claims are true, we contacted both the NCAA and Southeastern Conference as soon as these allegations surfaced. We have engaged outside counsel to investigate this matter and will spare no resources to find the truth."

Thanks to all of you for all that you have done and continue to do for Auburn. Let me assure each of you that we have and will continue to do things the right way.

God Bless and War Eagle,

Jay

1230 UPDATE: McClover also claims that he purchased his college car with $7,000 he got from a booster "that he knew." Junior Rosegreen, a teammate of McClover's, says he saw McClover purchase the car with his Pell Grant moneys.

From Rosegreen's interview with AuburnSports.com

"Stanley is bitter with everybody because he blew $1.2 million at the strip club. He went to the strip club three times a week. He was making it rain with 20-, 10-, 5- and 1-dollar bills and now he's broke. He shouldn’t get mad at Coach (Tommy) Tuberville, Coach (Eddie) Gran and the Auburn Family because he blew his money."

Rosegreen also says that McClover maintains he was paid $20,000 by HBO for his presence in their special...

More when we know more...

Your NFL Strike Update: So it doesn't work? (Rich vs. Rich--Day 17)

Stephen Ross/Courtesy: forbes.com

Really? The model doesn't work? At least Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross says that it doesn't. And after all, if he says something, we know it must be true.

Ross, on a stage with NFL and Dolphins legend Dan Marino at a Sports business convention told an audience that "The model doesn't work""There probably won't be football until it does work".

Hmmmm.

Read the story and judge for your selves. From the Miami Herald RIGHT HERE

Ross did later add that he believes there will be a settlement. But let's get back to the original comment. What doesn't work? Is $50-$100 million in profit per season not enough? Is the perpetual increase in value of the franchises not enough? What constitutes a "Model" that does work?

If you want to know the reason nobody, with the exception of a few, empathize with the business moguls who run Pro Football teams, here's your reason. Really, I'm not sure what else can be said.

We also might add on the Owners/League website yesterday, they did pat themselves on the back for paying $245 million in player benefits.

You can read more about that RIGHT HERE

By contrast, to further emphasize the stupidity of this argument, the NFLPA (Not a union) posted a list of the Net Worth of the NFL Owners. Oddly enough, Mr. Ross, would be #2 at $3.3 billion.

Hmmmm...

It's been a relatively quiet day for the players. Although Aqib Talib turned himself in to Garland,Texas police yesterday to face his assault charges.

We like the fact that the players are not mouthing off...at least today. We've maintained from the get-go, just keep your mouths shut and don't say stupid stuff and maybe things can get done. We still argue that the whole premise of this "Lockout" is stupid. It's not about money, although they say it is. It's not about care, although it factors in. No, it's plain and simple about ego. You can deny it, but you know it's true. If both groups really wanted to do what is in the best interest of the game and fans, we wouldn't be having this daily rant. Think about it.

For some reason, this just jumps out at us today. Maybe we should put De Smith and the Jolly Roger on the Minnow....Enjoy Bowling for Soup doing Gilligan's Island:

Dominique Wilkins attacked by former ref---Now with fight video

((ht: ajc.com))

This is just plain weird. NBA Hall of Famer and Atlanta Hawks VP and Broadcaster Dominique Wilkins was attacked after the Hawks game on Wednesday night against the Orlando Magic.

The attacker, Rashan Michel jumped Wilkins, hitting him in the chest and hitting a security guard. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Michel was previously an NBA and College Referee and previously owned a clothing store. He claims Wilkins owes him money.

More from AJC.com RIGHT HERE

Interesting. Wilkins, for his part, wasn't hurt. But we are guessing he, along with everyone else who witnessed this was a bit stunned. Michel, at least judging by this mugshot, could possibly have tripped and fallen into someone's fist.

Having worked many Hawks games in our career, we know that they do have some security at Philips arena, but they tend to be off to the side and out of view. Perhaps that's something they might want to look into.

**UPDATE**---Shockingly, there's video, and it's on TMZ:



For those wondering about Wilkins, here's a reminder of why he's a legend. Thanks NBA TV:

Elbow To Face= Fist To The Ribs

((HT: CSNWashington/NBA/blazersedgeben))

John Wall didn't like getting elbowed in the Wednesday night game between his Wizards and the Heat. The only problem with that is when Zydrunas Ilgauskas elbows you in the chops, you can't just hit him back in the chops if you're a guard...

Evidence below...


Doesn't quite seem like a fair fight unless a stepladder is involved...

It's Opening Day!!!

Eventhough it should be Monday in Cincinnati...

So, here's your opening day speech...
((HT: Columbia/TriStar/youtube))

BREAKING: Painter Stays At Purdue

((HT: IndyStar))

Jeff Rabjohns lets us all know that Matt Painter is staying at Purdue after being courted heavily by Missouri...

Purdue on Tuesday said it had “clearly demonstrated Purdue University’s commitment to him and to our men’s basketball program.”
Especially after raising Painter's salary from $1.3-million to $2-million...

From Rabjohns, when he contacted Gene Keady about Painter's thought process:
“It’s about having the opportunity to win a national title with the backing of everyone,” Keady said during negotiations. “He wants to know if an assistant coach needs a car, he can get it. If something needs to be done, they’ll do it, so he doesn’t have to worry about all the nickel and dime stuff.

“It isn’t about money.”

More when we know more...

tOSU Starts Spring Practice, Fickell Interim Coach

((HT: WBNS-TV))

Ohio State announced that Luke Fickell has been promoted to assistant head football coach and will be the interim head coach for the first five games of the 2011 season.

Fickell keeps his role as linebackers coach and co-defensive coordinator.

"I am honored to be able to grow at a place and in a program that I know, love and respect. It is extremely humbling," Fickell said in a statement.

Today was the first day of Spring practice in Columbus, and it was another day for THe Vest to be raked over the coals for his behavior- which he continued to apologize for at the same presser that Fickell was announced interim HC.

Here's Tressel again...
((HT: ESPN))

Bonds Day 7: More Ballplayers On The Stand

((HT: KGO-TV))

Ex-major leaguer Randy Velarde testified that Greg Anderson gave him PED's throughout the 2002 season.

Ex-Giant Marvin Benard also went on the stand and testified Anderson gave him the same flaxseed oil that Bonds thought he was taking at the time: Both the "cream" and the "clear."

Once again, neither associated any behavior with Bonds.

Here's your morning update...

Bee-Cee-Ess Confident About Themselves Minus Fiesta

((HT: azfamily.com))

The executive director of the BCS is confident they could boot the Fiesta Bowl out of their rotation before the end of their current contract with themselves ends in three years...

Bill Hancock said in a phone interview that the BCS "will not be associated with this kind of behavior."

What Hancock did not say was that most of the big, bad Bee-Cee-Ess games are desperately trying to fix their red wagons before others come sniffing around.

The BCS has set up a task force to see if they want to keep the Fiesta Bowl as part of the in-crowd. We all know how effective task forces are, don't we...???

Here's your daily coverage from our friends at AZ3...

Your Strike Update: Plans for a payout (Rich vs. Rich--Day 16)

NFLPA logo/Courtesy: sportsbusinessdaily.com

In today's episode, there really isn't a whole lot to report. But we knew that would be the case. At least for the next week or so.

The only significant news is that the NFLPA (Not a Union) is in the process of making arrangements to pay players from their "Lockout" fund, beginning coincidentally or not, on April 15th.

According to a story on NFL.com, the payout would be restricted to $60,000 per player maximum. However, its believed that the pay would come in 6 installments instead of all at once.

Your story from Jason La Canfora at NFL.com RIGHT HERE

It will be interesting as this drags out in perpetuity to see how some NFL players will exist on what to them would have to be considered a paltry sum. To the rest of us, it's a year of work. And that's why we continue to maintain that the average fan, can't relate to the reasons for a justification of a work stoppage.

And yeah, we get that some of the "Owners" won't make money either, because their team is their primary source of income. Sure, we know many had already made their fortunes before this. And they'll survive too.

This is why we have a hard time believing that either side can claim "Poverty" or being unable to afford things. Both the players and owners make more money than any of us ever will in a given year. And in some cases, they spend more in one day then we make in a year. And yet they want more.

We say, stop bitching, stop pandering, stop trying to say you are being "Dumped On". You aren't. Until you work at a job where you have to wait quarterly to see the company bottom line to know if you'll be working the next month, you have no right to complain. Until you have to make do with one, 10-year old car that you can't afford to trade for a new one, you have no right to complain. We don't want to hear it. Figure out your damn problems in private and move on!

In the meantime, enjoy your money--Pink Floyd:

Auburn has a new headache to deal with (UPDATED)

((ht: sportsbybrooks))

Our pal Brooks got a look at the upcoming episode of HBO's Real Sports, set to air today (Wednesday), and let's just say, it makes Auburn, along with a couple of other schools not look to good.

The segment in question is a piece done by Andrea Kremer talking about "Pay to Play" in College Football. And according to 4 former Auburn players featured in it, they were given money to play. And yes, Auburn fans, if you read the transcript....it doesn't sound so good for you. And there is a mention of LSU in this as well, for you folks in Baton Rouge

Read the Sports by Brooks story RIGHT HERE

For their part, neither the NCAA or Auburn responded to the story though they were apparently contacted about it.

The story quotes each of the players, talking about the varying amounts they would receive, either by handshake or in book bags. Some players got more than others, it would appear, though they all got something.

As for Real Sports, this story is a part of an hour devoted to the problems inherent in college football. And it isn't necessarily kind to the NCAA, or others.

Though they aren't totally breaking new ground with the in depth look here, they are bringing to light several issues that have been simmering just under the surface for years. There have always been allegations, particularly in the SEC, that things like what Auburn is now being accused of have gone on for a long, long time.

This by far is not the only issue that needs to be addressed. We have, for years advocated that the players need to be getting a stipend for living expenses while at school. Just look at how much money the schools and the NCAA make off the players likenesses. There is no rational argument that can justify them doing this. Most college football players come from backgrounds that make it virtually impossible for them to afford doing the things that most college students do on a daily basis. That has always been an issue.

We hope this story and others will open some eyes, not as much on Auburn, although, if true, they need to be punished. But more the NCAA, an entity that for years has been making money hand-over-foot, exploiting and taking advantage of college age athletes.

They'll argue, they re-invest the money they make. We'd argue that they don't do enough of it. Prove that you are as altruistic as you claim and then maybe we'll change our tune, but not until then.

Here is the video preview of the upcoming episode. Thanks HBO:

College Sports Part One

ADDENDUM: While it would be astronomically naive to have the HQ put its fingers in its collective ears about the subject, there are a few points to look at with the Auburn witch hunt ((it seems)) by HBOSports, Brooks and others...

First, McGlover was confronted by teammates and asked why he would go ahead and say what was divulged on "Real Sports." He told Ronnie Brown that it was for his foundation- and, as strange as it seems, HBO Sports cut a PSA for McGlover's "Foundation" after the interview was completed. Brown could openly refute what McGlover asserted if asked, but he wasn't by Gumbel and Company.

So much for alleged journalistic integrity...

Second, regrettably, the statute of limitations for charges such as these is four years. There are no members of the Auburn staff from the Tuberville era still employed on the Plains- unless you count Chizik's assistantship in 2004. Therefore, the NCAA can do only one of two things:

1) Still go ahead and punish the university for the environment they've created as something along the lines of repeat offender/culture of deceit status- which they've done to schools in the past because they felt like it or,

2) Go after Tuberville in his current environment and have the entire town of Lubbock commute to Indianapolis with torches, pitchforks, and firearms in tow.

Chaz Ramsey and Raven Gray talk about "anonymous" this and "unidentified" that. Troy Reddick talks about "unidentified" assistants after he was turned down for a GA job with the school.

The HQ has its journalistic side and its "poke the bear" side, too. And we're admittedly split on this particular element. If the "anonymous and unidentified" finally are given names and faces, then we're cool with what goes down in the long run. If college busts and those desperate for the reclamation of their 15 minutes are doing it just for that- then it's a shame you feel like ratting out your alma mater for something you put on your self in a time of your life you can't get back.

The Sporting News' Ken Bradley caught up with a few current-past Tigers...

Lee Ziemba says he didn't get a dime...

"I remember trying to figure out—I was just talking to my girlfriend about this yesterday—I just got my first credit card yesterday and I was talking about how nice it was not to have to choose between eating food and putting gas in my truck for once. Even though now I have money, I told her that would be helpful back when I was in college. That’s the way things were. They were late giving us our scholarship checks, we were getting money on the 17th or something like that, late on our rent checks and stuff. We struggled in college. As much as you whined and complained and tried to get money, you weren’t getting a dime. So I don’t know where all this is coming from.”

Ramsey was injured in his time on the Plains, and was recently a loser in a lawsuit against an athletic trainer who Ramsey claimed screwed up his rehab.

Charles Goldberg wrote in an al.com article that McClover's high school coach, Ken Scott at Fort Lauderdale-Dillard says that Auburn never paid any of the players that came from there.

Goldberg also details the exchange between Brown and McClover:

"I found out that Stanley was talking about he had a choice to go to different colleges, and one of the reasons he chose Auburn was because they offered him money," Brown said. "So I called him. I said, 'Whoa, what is this? What is this about?'

He said, 'Well, it has nothing to do with Auburn. I was just telling my story about me trying to help kids. I figured it would be good to tell my story.'

"I said, 'What are you talking about? If you tell that story, people are going to say you were paid.' He said, 'This has nothing to do with the school. This is about me and my story, and trying to help kids.'

"I said, 'You can't implicate a school eight or nine years later. Why would you say that anyway?'"

Brown said McClover didn't have an answer.

PROGRAMMING ALERT: Quentin Groves is also letting the free world know that, after the HBO Sports program, he's hosting a live event on UStream to debunk what they're going to divulge...

Apparently, the number of players disputing everything-HBO is now up to 14...

More when we know more...

Cavs Win Against Heat In Cleveland

((HT: youtube/nba.com))

Hey, this was the Cavs bowl game... this was their moment in the sun since they got absolutely Horizon-jobbed the last time the Threetles were at Quicken Arena...

It wasn't the way it happened the last time...
Nowhere close...

Here's the highlights...


That's what happens when you don't show for starting line-ups...
You think the HQ is kidding...???
Observe...
((HT: NBA TV/youtube))


He was taking his talents somewhere else apparently...

BREAKING: UVA Throws Perfect Game

((HT: Virginiaathletics))

Cavaliers pitcher Will Roberts throws the 8th perfect game on record in the history of the NCAA. UVA beat GW 2-nil...

Bully for him...
Here's your highlights...


Coverage of the Wahoos 2,000th career win from the Newsplex is hyah...

DEVELOPING: Anaheim Approves Funding For Kings

The Anaheim city council unanimously approved the long-rumored US$75-million bond deal in their attempt to try and bring the Sacramento Kings south to the Honda Center.

Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait continues to say that there are NO FINANCIAL PROBLEMS and there won't be any public dollars spent.

Samueli also manages Honda Center, and he's putting his own money into a deal for upgrades to Honda Center and other moving costs. The money is rumored to be $25-million in the upgrades.

The Kings must file for relocation with the NBA by April 18.

More when we know more...

8-5 Honorary Member of Sporting KC

((HT: SportingKC/MLS))

Sporting Kansas City announced Chad Ochocinco has been named an "honorary member" of SKC after his six-day tryout. Ochocinco can duck back in and re-join the team for reserve training and workouts during the MLS season.

“This is a positive outcome for everyone involved,” Sporting Kansas City Manager Peter Vermes said. “It’s been great to have Chad here and we’ll welcome him back when he’s ready to return. He’s been a true professional throughout his tryout, he has fit right in with the other players and he has been a great presence in the locker room. He has definitely earned the right to be an honorary member of the squad.”

“I had a great six days here...just to be able to grace the pitch with these guys was awesome,” Ochocinco said. “It’s always been a dream of mine to play the game of soccer. Manager Vermes was kind enough to allow me to stay here at will to train with the reserves and continue to get myself in shape.”

Here's 8-5 talking to SKC's Dave Borchardt about his experience...
Chad Ochocinco Named Honorary Member of Sporting KC by SportingKC

And here's the reserve game highlights and post from Monday...
((HT: SportingKC their ownselves))

OSG High: Hockey Fights Even Happen In Texas

((HT: MyFoxDFW))

Yes, yes... the HQ knows the joke running through your head...
"What...? They have hockey in Texas...???"

Yes, it's pretty popular on the minor league level.
And the grass roots elements are even picking up steam...

But not necessarily after events like this...

Dionne Anglin from MyFoxDFW tells us that high school kids even cheap shot in Texas during title games, too...

School Hockey Championship Ends with Brawl: MyFoxDFW.com

Bonds Day 6: Giambis On Deck

((HT: KGO-TV))

The Rockies' Jason Giambi says Barry Bonds' personal trainer first sent him steroids at the end of 2002. He went on to testify that he met Greg Anderson after the 2002 season while both were traveling with a U.S. all-star team during a tour of Japan.

Before the '03 season, Giambi said that Anderson shipped him steroids and instructions on when to use them.

Giambi didn't say anything about steroids and Bonds. What the prosecution is looking for is a discrediting of Anderson. For the 437th time, Anderson is in jail for refusing to testify at this trial or anything else related to Bonds and steroids.

The HQ is hoping Anderson is being taken care of by the appropriate parties...

Giambi said he used the steroids until August 2003.

Remember, he then went on to apologize for what he had put people through at the time, but he never used the word "steroids" in any apology.

Here's Scott Miller of CBSSports addressing the issue in 2007...
((HT: CBSSports))


Here's your morning update from KGO...

Aqib Talib issued an arrest warrant: Players behaving badly...

Aqib Talib/Courtesy: ufrsports.com

Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Aqib Talib is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Garland, Texas police department. Talib and his mother Okolo are charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The charges stem from an incident on March 21st in Garland that resulted in allegations that Talib assaulted and then shot Shannon Billings, who supposedly is Talib's sisters boyfriend. Mom apparently followed suit.

Read more from the Tampa Tribune RIGHT HERE

Talib is scheduled to turn himself in later this week. Garland police apparently are saying he'll be facing $25,000 bail.

Talib already has a stellar history with law enforcement, though until now, it had been restricted to the Tampa Bay area. In 2009, he was charged in an assault on a cab driver. That incident cost him a game last season with the NFL's personal-conduct policy.

Tom Korun of ABC Action News in Tampa says "Enough". The Bucs need to get rid of Talib, a perpetual troublemaker.

You can read his opinion RIGHT HERE

Not much chance of that happening at the moment, in large part because of the little thing called the NFL Lockout. However, you can expect the Jolly Roger to address this once there is an agreement in place and football returns. However, based on previous actions, it may or may not return with Mr. Talib.

ABC Action News has an early story on this, you can see it here:

Breaking: John Junker resigns as Fiesta Bowl investigation concludes

John Junker/Courtesy: Fiestabowl.org

We've been following this for sometime as part of our criticism of the BCS and the College Football bowl system as whole.

The now, former president of the Fiesta Bowl has resigned ahead of a scathing report about to be released regarding the over-the-top, extravagant spending of both he and his bowl game.

Read that story from AZCentral.com RIGHT HERE

You can read the report yourself, follow the link HERE

**UPDATE**---The BCS of all people scolds Junker and the Fiesta Bowl, threatening to pull the Fiesta Bowl's BCS status. Their executive director Bill Hancock said this to the Arizona Republic: "The BCS group takes this matter very seriously and will consider whether they keep a BCS Bowl game and we'll consider other appropriate sanctions.""If the bowl does remain a BCS Bowl, its handling of things will be closely monitored going forward".

Among the details in the report, which the New York Times got an advance copy of, includes funneling campaign contributions to politicians, flying other politicians around the country on the bowl game's dime, a $1000 bill at a strip club and a $30,000 birthday party for Junker his ownself.

Read the entire story from the New York Times RIGHT HERE

For his part, Junker, who was put on administrative leave, never did speak to investigators. But he apparently didn't have to. The excess also included many personal expenses which were billed back to the bowl.

The whole affair was triggered by an initial complaint that Bowl Game employees were being coerced into donating money to chosen political candidates with the assumption they'd be re-paid. They weren't.

The investigation later discovered the Fiesta Bowl had lobbyists and others on the payroll, though nobody could figure out why they would need them.

This all goes back to our point that the Bowl games exist strictly for their own benefit. Even though many claim they are "Non-profit" in nature, a notion we and most everyone else scoffs at. We reported recently on the University of Connecticut having to pay back over $1 million to the Fiesta Bowl because they couldn't convince fans to travel across the country for the game. Same for Oklahoma, though they got bailed out by their conference.

There are several prevailing arguments out there that the Bowl system and the BCS in particular will never change because too many people have their hands in the kitty. Nobody wants to give up their kingdom. When you have a system that pays someone like Junker $600,000 to oversee, let me emphasize this "ONE" football game, you've got a problem.

Unfortunately, we don't think this will change much of anything. It should, but it won't. Junker won't be charged with anything if this story is an indicator. We aren't saying he did anything criminal, but it sure the heck looks like he did.

In a land where the rich get richer...and the rich are the only ones who get to increase their profits, nobody is going to do what is best for everyone. Which, to be honest, is a crying-ass shame.

Here's the latest from our friends at KTVK-TV/AZ3 in Phoenix...

NC State gets territorial about their "Wolfpack"

NC State Mascot/Courtesy: mancavesports.org

And they are pretty determined to not let anyone else use the name. At least not in the form that they use it in.

The Raleigh, North Carolina school has apparently told tiny Loyola University that they can no longer use the name "Wolfpack" or logo because it's "Trademark Infringement". But...they did say that "For a Fee", they could use it. How generous

Read the story from the Charlotte Observer RIGHT HERE

Loyola Logo/Courtesy: loyola university

Apparently NC State had a similar dust up with the University of Nevada. That suit, required Nevada to rename themselves the"Wolf Pack" and change the mascot--slightly.

While we understand the world of "Trademark Infringement" and marketing and all that, this is just plain STUPID. We half expect to hear from NC State from either using the term "NC State" or "Wolfpack". Though we find it hard to believe that it might lead anyone to believe that NC State is sponsoring us.

Suits and legal action such as this are happening more frequently these days. And they are happening because schools and/or teams think they can make a buck off of it. Even if a school or team uses a similar name and/or logo, we find it incredibly hard to believe that there would be "Confusion" over who it represents or endorses. Which is exactly what the Assistant General Counsel, Shawn Troxler of North Carolina seems to be inferring.

And since the Washington Redskins sued the Washington Post for using the name "Redskins" in their pro football section, we'll have to let you know if we get legal paperwork from the clowns at NC State.

And because we always wanted to know what would happen if a 3rd rate mascot from a 4th rate school in the ACC did the weather, we found this which includes the NC State Mascot:



Try suing this version of the "WOLFPACK..BITCHES!"



See what happens when Tony Schiavone tried...???
((HT: WCW/TNT/youtube))

Matt Painter Has A Decision To Make

[HT: purdue.rivals.com, indystar.com]

Matt Painter has two schools bidding for his services, his current employer Purdue and Missouri.

Purdue seems to be willing to make Painter very happy. Painter's current contract has a guaranteed salary of $1.3 million but his salary isn't the issue but resources for the men's basketball program is.

The Boilermaker brass seams to be willing to please Painter.

"Last night (Monday), the Board of Trustees, President (France) Cordova and (athletic director) Morgan Burke clearly demonstrated Purdue University's commitment to him and our men's basketball program." Purdue assistant athletics director Tom Schott said of the school's behalf to Purdue's Rivals.com site. "We were proactive and though we will not go into details at this time, we have encouraged Matt to stay through our words and action."

"Proactive means they gave him more money," former Purdue coach Gene Keady said Tuesday morning to the Indianapolis Star. "But money's not keeping him from thinking about Missouri." "It's about having the opportunity to win a national title with the backing of everyone. He wants to know if an assistant coach needs a car, he can get it. If something needs to be done, they'll do it, so he doesn't have to worry about all the nickel and dime stuff."

Missouri officials will meet with Painter today in Florida where the current Purdue coach is vacationing and might offer a contract. Painter may be offered the same numbers that Mike Anderson was offered to stay at Mizzou, at least $2 million for 7 years. In any case, Painter has a decision to make.

Photo Courtesy: Purdue University

Your NFL Strike Update: Isn't the NFLPA kind? (Rich vs. Rich--Day 16)

DeMaurice Smith/Courtesy: File

They are so sweet. They just want to do what is best for you, the NFL Draft fan. You can just see it in the flutter of their collective eyes.

Today's update in the legal action none of us can relate to, the NFLPA (not a union--a trade group!), out of the kindness in their hearts, have decided to not hold an event simultaneously with the NFL draft. They've decided to hold their usual spate of draft weekend events in New York City, but have scheduled them so they don't conflict with the draft itself.

You can read about their greatness from their own website RIGHT HERE

Oh, and for what it is worth, they've filed their final legal brief in preparation for the April 6th lawsuit hearing with a Minneapolis judge. In it, they harp on the fact that in a previous settlement, the league and its owners agreed the NFLPA could decertify when they needed to. They argue that the owners are not complying with that agreement, saying the NFLPA's actions are a "Sham" and that is the reason for the "Lockout" (Technically its not a strike)

You can read that legal discourse from the NFLockout website RIGHT HERE

Fred Taylor, a long time NFL Running Back had his own take on what is going to happen. Taylor in fact thinks the "Lockout" will be over in about a month. He offered his own take on negotiations in an interview with the Florida Times-Union and writer Tania Ganguli including the notion that the owners deal, was the worst in labor history according to NFLPA president DeMaurice Smith

You can read excerpts from Jacksonville.com RIGHT HERE

Meanwhile, back at stately Wayne manor, the Owners fired back on their own website. In a post by the author "Staff", the league is arguing why they consider the NFLPA's action illegal. And though we ourselves are not legal experts by any means, we kind of wonder about this ourselves. Especially since the only thing that seems to have changed with the NFLPA is that they don't call themselves a union anymore.

It's mostly legalese, but the league gives a lengthy but compelling reason as to why the NFLPA's actions were very premeditated and not entirely legal.

You can read it HERE

Okay, again with the rhetoric. What does all of this verbiage mean?

Well, I'm glad you asked. Really, it means next to nothing. It means nothing will happen at least before April 6th. It means that the Draft will happen regardless of where the two sides stand. It means that we'll hear a lot more posturing and a ton of pandering in the next couple of weeks.

It also means this is far from over. We are guessing that neither side will be totally victorious in the April 6th litigation. We suspect they will be coerced back to the bargaining table, but nothing of consequence will happen right now.

Essentially right now, it means that both groups are playing chicken. They are waiting to see who blinks first. The owners are betting on the players breaking ranks, individually at first, in larger groups as we get closer to a season. As for the players, the path they've chosen is essentially go for broke. That's the main reason they don't want to continue negotiating, despite saying they'll talk. If they really wanted to talk and work something out, they would have. The two sides aren't that far apart.

So? What are you saying? Well, I'm saying you are going to continue to get updates Monday thru Friday for awhile because we don't expect much, other than more rhetoric to happen for the next week or so. So enjoy!

In preparation for the possibility of replacements, we give you the movie, the Replacements. More specifically, deep thoughts by Shane Falcon (as played by Keanu Reeves)--dig the subtitles:

More legal issues for Dez Bryant: He's being sued

Dez Bryant/Courtesy: mediatourage.com

((ht: dallasnews.com))

Dallas Cowboys wide reciever Dez Bryant has some issues. One the plus side for him, the issue with the Mall appears to have been resolved. On the negative, he's now the target of a lawsuit claiming he's not paid his bills.

He's being sued by a New York jeweler who says Bryant hasn't paid him for the $240,000 of jewelry that he ordered in 2010. And....according to the Dallas Morning News, he's being sued for another $293,000 of  jewelery and $12,000-plus of sports event tickets that he charged. Mind you, both of these "Lawsuits" were for purchases he apparently made before he was drafted.

Read the story from DallasNews.com RIGHT HERE

Ok. If reading this pisses you off, it probably should. We are in no position to tell young Mr. Bryant how to live his life, but somebody probably needs to.

With the NFL on strike and the NFLPA (not a union), claiming the players need to help the players afford things after they retire, Mr. Bryant is proving that the players...or at least some of them are just plain stupid.

No, most of us can't relate to the amount of money that Bryant and other players make or pay for things. But we find it hard to believe that players can't afford to buy themselves health insurance. Oh, wait, they have to spend $500,000 on jewelry, that's much more important. For that same amount, Mr. Bryant can have health insurance for the rest of his life.

With the litany of issues Dez Bryant is having this off-season, its obvious he needs to find someone responsible to help him live his life. We get...no, we understand that he like many other athletes are overwhelmed with the idea of being poor their entire life and suddenly have more money than god being foisted upon them. We get that. And the teams should have some responsibility for either providing or strongly encouraging these kids to invest their money instead of blowing it all on stupid stuff.

We are guessing that some do listen to advice such as that. But we are also guessing, based largely on the evidence, that Dez Bryant...well, he's not listening.

Larry Drew II Heading West. Enrolled At UCLA

This last we heard from Larry Drew II he was leaving North Carolina because he lost his starting point guard position. The Tar Heels thrived with a pass first dribble with you head up point guard in Kendall Marshall. Heck Marshall almost led North Carolina to the Final Four.

It appears Larry Drew II has found a home and it's UCLA. Drew must like the baby blue colors, this time with gold trim.

UCLA's Scout.com site is citing a source say Drew enrolled Monday for the spring quarter at UCLA and will be eligible for the 2012-13 season. Drew will have one year of eligibility with the Bruins.

By the way Drew will be paying his own way through UCLA until he is eligible to play.

Interesting to see how Larry Drew will do playing for Ben Howland.

Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

VCU Enjoying Time In Their Foursome

((HT: WTVR-TV Richmond))

The Rams got home and they partied...
Here's the early coverage...
 

Bonds Day 5: Kimberly Bell Testifies

((HT: KGO-TV San Francisco))

Prosecutopr Jeff Nedrow called Kimberly Bell to testify after Giants clubhouse manager Mike Murphy said on the stand that Bonds needed a larger hat for the 2002 season.

One of the side-effects of taking HgH is the growth of your head...
And Bonds' head DID grow...

Bell is expected to testify that Bonds told her that he used steroids and about the transformations he went through over the nine years she was involved with him.

Here's the latest from court and Heather Ishimaru...

Ozzie Subs For Jose In Boxing, Promoted Pissed

Get this...

Ozzie Canseco showed up as his brother Jose for a celebrity boxing match over the weekend at the Hollywood, Florida Hard Rock, according to Dave Hyde in the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

"A bait-and-switch," promoter Damon Feldman told Hyde. "I'm disgusted."

Feldman claims he paid Jose $5,000 leading up to the fight with plans to pay him an additional $5,000 when he showed.

"The guy I thought was Jose kept asking me to pay him in cash before [the fight]," Feldman said. "I told him I had to pay him by check for business reasons. He said he needed cash. We went back and forth."

Ozzie, who has switched out for Jose in the past, never was allowed to box and received a police escort out of the Hard Rock.

Understandable...

Feldman has said he did not pay Ozzie the $5,000 for showing up as a Canseco and wants the original $5,000 he paid Jose back.

Here's what happened one of the last times Jose tried to celebrity box...
((HT: WCAU/ESPN/youtube))


Maybe there was a reason Jose didn't want to fight after all...

Your NFL Strike Update: TV Makes Plans (Rich vs. Rich--Day 15)

Arthur Blank, Roger Goodell and others/Courtesy: d.orlando ledbetter-ajc.com

It's Monday, so it's time for our weekly series known as the Battle of the really, really rich or what they prefer to call it: The NFL Lockout.

In today's episode, we hear from the TV Networks who are trying to cover their collective hiney's in case they don't have NFL Football as a programming option this fall. Oh, advertisers are making plans as well.

CBS, FOX, NBC and ESPN are all sweating a bit heavily these days for fear their "Golden Goose" will not be laying any eggs.

Some cable networks are already contemplating alternate programming. Fox, at least has baseball until November, but none have any programming to fill gaps after that.

Read more from the Wall Street Journal RIGHT HERE

One other tidbit. The owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Arthur Blank decided to chime in yesterday. Why? We don't know.

Blank, who is a genuinely good person who means well, sometimes wades into or does things he probably shouldn't. And in this case, he shouldn't have. He again states the leagues case that "The NFLPA walked away from a deal that was more than fair." 


We give you a link to that letter courtesy of the Falcons website RIGHT HERE

While we have the utmost respect for Mr. Blank, having dealt with him for years, in this case--just stop. Please don't pander to the fans.

Our friends at ProFootballTalk provide a good summary of where we are and where we are going RIGHT HERE

Among the interesting points brought out here, the April 6th "Class Action" lawsuit is probably the next time anything significant happens here.

The other notable development is a "Grass Roots" push to have the players and owners meet, sans attorney's.

As for the players, they really don't have much to add either. Again, there has been more rhetoric, talking about the league not being willing to talk. Quite honestly, nothing new with these guys.

--Sigh-- We pretty much are resigned to the fact this is going to get resolved in a courtroom. We still think this is quite possibly the stupidest argument in the history of Sports. As much as we'd like to think one side is right and honorable and doing the right thing, we fully realize---they aren't.

It's going to be incredibly tough for 2 egotistical, narcissistic groups to sit in the same room and agree on anything. We realize that. We just hope that both sides stop trying to convince the fans that they are on the fans side. They aren't.

In the meantime, because we laugh at the thought of a strike with Replacement players, we give you the real Replacements:

BREAKING: Brian Gregory goes to Georgia Tech

Brian Gregory/Courtesy: Ron Alvey-Dayton Daily News

It appears that Georgia Tech has found its next basketball coach. And the alumni are less than thrilled about it.

The new sheriff in town: Brian Gregory, now formerly of Dayton. Gregory apparently informed his team early this morning that he'd be taking the new gig.

Read the Dayton Daily News RIGHT HERE

Gregory has an NIT and an NCAA bid under his belt with the Flyers, a team that plays in the Atlantic 10. Tech for their part has a lot of work ahead. Former Head Coach Paul Hewitt left a program that has digressed for most of the past 5 seasons including a squad that went a robust 13-18 this past year.

We might also add here, the Tech was spurned late Sunday by Richmond coach Chris Mooney who decided to take a 10-year extension by his current employer. Not that it means he'll be there for 10-more years, but it meant he wasn't leaving now.

Mark Bradley of the AJC, breaks down Tech's search RIGHT HERE

It should be an interesting couple of years for Gregory, his Tech team will be playing away from home the next 2 seasons while the school rebuilds their basketball arena.

We'll bring you more on this story later today.

Tennessee takes Cuonzo Martin....really

Cuonzo Martin/Courtesy: midwestsportsfans.com

They sure didn't waste any time. The University of Tennessee has found their replacement for Bruce Pearl. That replacement, now former Missouri State coach Cuonzo Martin.

Martin coach Missouri State for 3 seasons and had a modestly successful record, including going 26-9 this past season. He was considered someone that might be a target for some of the larger schools, it was suprising, a bit, that he ends up in Knoxville.

More from GoVolsExtra.com RIGHT HERE

If the name sounds familiar, its because Martin made a pretty good name for himself as a star forward for Purdue in the early 90's. However in this case, he may have some work to do. The Vols are expected to take it on the chin from the NCAA sometime this summer for Pearl's indiscretions. Those indiscretions may cause Martin to be dealing with some form of probation or ban. That part remains to be seen.

He'll be introduced to the masses on Monday at a 2:30pm Press Conference.

Here's early coverage from Steve Phillips and our friends at WBIR-TV in Knoxville

Okay... So Who Had Butler And VCU

Playing each other...
In Houston...
For a chance at a national title...

That'd be none of us...
But how awesome is that Bill Self has lost to Northern Iowa and VCU in consecutive years...???

Jus' axin'
Here's early returns from downtown Richmond...


Here's Coach Smart with a demurely-dressed ((For him)) Craig Sager...
((HT: CBSSports/NCAA/SI.com))

Let's Play Two Plus: Fresno And USD Go 22

Garrett Weber's RBI single in the 22nd inning gave Fresno State a 3-2 victory over San Diego in a game that lasted 7 hours and 12 minutes. It tied for the third-longest in NCAA Division I history.

Fresno State (17-2) tied it at 2 in the bottom of the ninth on a Brennan Gowens' two-run double.

Fast forward to the 22nd...
((HT: Ringalls86))


Danny Muno hit a leadoff single for the Bulldogs, stole second and scored on Weber's single to left with two outs to beat San Diego (4-16) and end the game after 7 hours, 12 minutes.

The teams tied Baylor-Houston from 1999 and Colorado-Nebraska back in 1974 for the third-longest game. The Division I record was set in 2009, when Texas beat Boston College 3-2 in 25 innings in an NCAA regional game.

For those of you who miss Travis Tucker, here's how he ended that one...

Butler Does It Again... Another Foursome

((HT: Fox59 Indianapolis))

The Butler Bulldogs returned to Hinkel Fieldhouse in the middle of the night after beating ((notice the HQ didn't say "upsetting")) Florida in the Regional Final Saturday.

You figure a few people would show up...
It was more than a few...
 

Anaheim Thinks $75M Can Lure Kings

((HT: 10news.net))

The city of Anaheim and the Samuelis think that $75-million can get the Kings to Anaheim post haste...

Improvements to Honda Center would be capped at $25 million, while transition costs couldn't go over $50 million.

Part of the deal is that the city of Anaheim is the only name associated with the Royals if they jump Sac-Town. There will be no "Los Angeles Royals Of Anaheim" or anything like that...

Here's the quick version...


Steve Large has the longer version from our friends at CBS13

LeBrun: Bruins' Savard Having "Memory Problems"

((HT: ESPN.com))

Boston Bruins center Marc Savard is having "real memory problems and he's quite worried about it," a source told ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun Saturday.

Savard was placed on long-term IR back in early February with his second concussion in less than a year. That was in the Bruins' January 22nd game against Colorado- thanks to Matt Hunwick.
((HT: NESN/NHL/youtube))


Savard also sustained a concussion against Pittsburgh on March 7, 2010- thanks to Matt Cooke... and Savard at the time thought it was a dirty hit...
((HT: FSPittsburgh/NHLArchive/NHL))


He did not return from that injury until the second round of the playoffs and missed the first 23 games of this season. Apparently, Savard has been suffering from depression during this time period.

More when we know more...

The March Through The Madness: It's Butler And UConn

((HT: CBSSports/NCAA))

Although they're not playing each other... yet...

Butler outlasted Florida in one national quarterfinal...
It was another Gus Alert...


And UConn survived Arizona in Anaheim as we sampled another one and done in Arizona's bench...

VCU Knocks Off Florida State In OT To Get To Final 8

Now, they get Kansas...
The Jayhawks had no issue with Richmond
((HT: CBSSports/NCAA))


Others that moved to the next round included North Carolina- who get Kentucky after their upset of Ohio State...

The Tarheels had no issue with Marquette...
((HT: CBSSports/NCAA))


Here's the end of the Kentucky-Ohio State game...
Until it gets pulled...
((HT: CBSSports/NCAA/youtube))


More when we know more...

Dayton's Gregory Offered GaTech Job

((HT: Brooks via FOSG Matt Stewart))

Matt, through his Twitter account, is reporting that Dayton's Brian Gregory could be the new head coach at Georgia Tech if he accepts the offer on the table...

With on campus renovations- including Alexander Memorial Coliseum- and the $7-million buyout of former coach Paul Hewitt, Tech AD Dan Radakovich only was willing to spend around $1.5-million per year for his new coach.

A lot of high-powered alums who played pro ball wanted to give the job to an unproven Mark Price or Craig "Noodles" Neal who could mosey on over from New Mexico.

Theories bounced to OSG included even bringing back College of Charleston head coach Bobby Cremins, with Price as an assistant, to ensure that the new Alexander was filled with patrons when it reopens.

Understand, Gregory has not accepted, but the job is his if he wants it.
The required amount of buzz would not accompany Gregory if he comes to The Flats, but he would be economically feasible.

More when we know more...

8-5 Staying In Kansas City

((HT: NBCActionnews.com/KSHB-TV))

It appears that Chad 8-5's stint with Major League Soccer will last a little longer.

The folks at Sporting KC are saying he gets to play in a reserve game Monday afternoon in his attempt to stick with a soccer franchise in the wake of an NFL lockout.

Here's a look back at Day Two of Ocho...
((HT: MLS/Sporting KC))


Here's Day One of Ocho-Football in KC...

Plea Deal In Jasper Howard Stabbing

((HT: WTNH-TV New Haven))

John Lomax III appeared in Rockville ((CT)) Superior Court Friday morning. He pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of first-degree manslaughter and could have received up to 20 years in prison. Lomax, instead, gets 18 years.

"I know it hurts, I know you're suffering," Lomax said while addressing the court before his sentencing.

Authorities say Lomax, who had been charged with murder, stabbed Howard during a fight between a group of football players and another group that included Lomax. Investigators believe the fight started over a comment a football player made about a woman.

Here's WTNH's coverage at the time...

Remarks on woman led to UConn killing : wtnh.com

Cases remain pending against seven other men charged in connection with the fight.