Sidelined By Irma

We have been sidelined without power since Hurricane Irma blew through Central Florida.

We had limited damage, thankfully, only without power for four days.

Some of our neighbors here in Central Florida were not so lucky.



In other parts of the Sunshine State, the damage has been far worse than what we ran up against here in the home of Mickey.

Pretty much everyone has been impacted in some way. UCF cancelled two home football games, Miami, Florida and Florida State each one and the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost a weekend,

But with no apologies to ESPN's racist host Jamelle Hill, we use football in these parts to escape.

In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, we have much more important things to deal with.

Please keep our Sunshine State friends and neighbors in your prayers, and don't forget about those tough Texans, still reeling from Hurricane Harvey.

Progressives: The Mad Dogs of Hell

Donald Trump's recent comments on immigration have lit a political fire that may well burn down many before being extinguished. The comments area as follows:

"The U.S. has become a dumping ground for everybody else's problems. Thank you. It's true, and these are the best and the finest. When Mexico sends its people, they're not sending their best. They're not sending you. They're not sending you. They're sending people that have lots of problems, and they're bringing those problems with us. They're bringing drugs. They're bringing crime. They're rapists. And some, I assume, are good people. But I speak to border guards and they tell us what we're getting. And it only makes common sense. It only makes common sense. They're sending us not the right people. It's coming from more than Mexico. It's coming from all over South and Latin America, and it's coming probably -- probably -- from the Middle East. But we don't know. Because we have no protection and we have no competence, we don't know what's happening. And it's got to stop and it's got to stop fast."

In response to the heavy criticism, Trump responded with the following comments:

 I was really criticized for the border, but the truth is it’s true. They think it’s like Mother Teresa is coming across the border. Well, I said drug dealers, I said killers, and I said rapists. They made the word rapists, they really picked that up. I tell you, I love the folks from South America. They’re friends of mine. Many work for me. Many are friends. Many buy apartments from me. I have great love for the Mexican people, and I always have, and they like me. No apology because everything I said is 100% correct. All you have to do is read the newspapers."

Donald J. Trump

While those who deem America oppressive and advocate for progressive ideals inclusive of open borders are continuing to blast Trump as incorrect, racist and bigoted through seemingly orchestrated waves of progressive politicians and media propagandists, the fact of the matter is Trump is quite accurate.

However, even with an introduction of the facts, those pesky leftists will pretend they don't exist and march right on with their agenda, which in this arena seems to be based on using hate speech laws to destroy America.

But Trump has indeed struck a serious nerve with these recent comments about illegal immigration, with two significant byproducts producing what appears to be a violent upcoming collision.

First, Trump has surged in the polls of those seeking the GOP nomination, as many in the electorate found very refreshing his challenge of open borders and the ridiculous effort, or lack thereof, of the government to halt illegal immigration. Although his comments could have been said with greater maturity, he was essentially accurate and I am among the many who are in agreement with Trump on this subject.

"I’ve never seen them this outraged, this vicious, this motivated, this coordinated – NEVER in all my years in politics, have I seen anything like the way the mad dogs of hell have been unleashed on Donald Trump ---Wayne Allyn Root

Second, the political correctness police has unleashed the gates of hell on Trump based on his "accurate" comments, including Univision and Macy's, both ending long relationships with Trump.  Univision says it will not broadcast the Miss USA pageant as contractually obligated due to Trump's comments, but Trump has counted with a lawsuit heavy on zeros.

Others who joined in boycotting Trump and Trump properties include the PGA, ESPN and regrettably, NASCAR and one of its signature sponsors Camping World.  The media, as you may suspect, made it out to be bigger than it was.

Rush Limbaugh noted that the GOP establishment has seemingly aligned against Trump's stance on illegal, may I repeat, illegal, immigrants. The list includes, of course, Jeb Bush, along with Marco Rubio and Chris Christie, each a 2016 candidate, along with GOP pundit Michael Steele and conservative columnist George Will. Republican National Committee Chairman Reince Priebus even called Trump to tell him to back off.

Hell, it's a Rhino convention!

Rick Perry condemned Trump for using such a wide brush in describing the illegal immigrants, which is odd because Rick Perry has a pretty darn good record in fighting the in-flight of the illegals on his Texas border.

When asked if he thought Donald Trump's comments on Mexicans have hurt the Republican Party, Mitt Romney relied "Yes, I think he made a severe error in saying what he did about Mexican Americans and I feel it was unfortunate." News flash to ole Mitt; illegal immigrants are not Mexican Americans, as astutely pointed out by a caller into Rush.

Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas is the only GOP 2016 candidate I have heard defend Trump in any form or fashion on this topic.

Some in the GOP consider Trump a mole, taking votes away from a potential winner in the GOP much as Ross Perot effectively did back in 1992.

 As Dustin Ulsterman of DC Whispers reports, "The path is being paved in real-time at this very moment and is apparently set to be unleashed “very soon.” An all out assault upon the Trump organization by Obama/Jarrett-approved operatives within the Mainstream Media to both humiliate and weaken the Republican candidate for his recent demand that something be done to secure the southern border."

Ulsterman added on his Facebook page the following accurate assessment of the trouble facing Trump: "Trump is in big-big trouble. They want to destroy him. It seems to have become very personal with them. He has threatened decades of effort in changing the face of the voting public. Another five years, ten at most, and conservatism will be an insignificant minority throughout most the country. Republicans will be an arm of the Democratic Party meant only to keep up the appearance of a choice. There will be no choice. There already is hardly one now. Donald Trump is disrupting that dynamic and they won’t stand for it. The countdown to his demise begins now."

In the real estate business myself, I have been a longtime fan of Donald Trump, admiring his work as a real estate developer.  As a candidate, while I am in full agreement with many of his positions, he is not among my favorites.

Although he considers himself one, I do not find him a conservative.  Trumps' positions on eminent domain, the Iraq war, taxation and health care are not in line with my principles and beliefs in those areas. In addition, Trump, who was a registered Democrat until 2009, has given money to many Democrats in the past, including Hillary Clinton, and speculated about Oprah Winfrey, among Obama's top supporters, being his vice presidential pick.  No Thanks!

America does not want a contest of Jeb Bush versus Hillary Clinton.  The reason Trump is rising so quickly is that Americans are tired of weakness and lies, and want somebody who is not afraid to upset the status quo, accurately stated by Ronald Reagan as "the mess we're in".

Trump is making some serious waves, tapping into an angry electorate, saying things most of the other candidates are too politically correct to say. Until such time a GOP candidate joins him in bucking those in the establishment, like this dope, and calling out those who are complicit in the destruction of America, I suspect he will remain high in the polls.

"People are angry that a commonsense thing like securing the border or ending sanctuary cities is somehow considered extreme. It's not extreme, it's common sense. We need to secure the border.” said 2016 GOP candidate Carly Fiorina.

Border security is just common sense, for those of us who still have some.

Living The American Dream

I was saddened last week to learn of the passing of professional wrestler Dusty Rhodes, "The American Dream."  Although he was originally a Texan, he was a Floridian, living here in Central Florida until his sudden death here on June 11.

Professional wrestling is not a sport I am a fan of, but times were different when I was a little kid and Rhodes was wrestling in shows across Florida. These were the days before cable television, and each Saturday just before noon, there was little to watch during the off-season of college football.

So, many here in watched along each weekend as Rhodes, appropriately described by Brian Campbell of ESPN as chubby and lovable, battled his foes with famed chain smoking ring announcer Gordon Solie in disbelief.  The ultimate fan favorite, Rhodes was elected into the WWE Hall of Fame, appropriately so.

Rhodes was a fun guy, a common man with a way with words. "Tower of Power, Man of the Hour, Too Sweet to be Sour"! Dusty lived the American dream, and his life was cut short too soon.

RIP Dusty Rhodes: "The American Dream. So long from the Sunshine State.

 

Read The Facts

While interviewing legendary former Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden on his radio show earlier this week, ESPN's Paul Finebaum noted that in his mind former Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston, the first pick in the recent NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, was an embarrassment to Florida State University, and asked Bowden to comment.

Bowden made some candid comments which have caused quite a stir, blowing up social media and pitting FSU fans against one another.  A Google search gave indication Bowden considered Winston "an embarrassment" to FSU. Even Tampa Bay Buccaneer coach Lovie Smith expressed his disappointment in Bowden.

Problem is, Finebaum appeared to misrepresent Bowden in a Tweet and Smith and most everyone else failed to read the entire quotation.

Read the entire quotation:

"Well, I think it's a consensus among Florid State fans, and boosters that he was an embarrassment in a lot of ways to the university," Bowden said. "He won a lot of ball games, probably one of the best football players that ever attended Florida State, but he hurt himself off the field. The good news is that he's young enough to get over that, ya know it, and he's gotta do that. He just can't make those junior high school decisions that he made while he was in college."

Coach Bobby Bowden is being taken out of context. Bowden's comments were quite true, as Winston has embarrassed the fan base on a handful of occasions, yet were inspirational about his future and not a condemnation of his past. We all hope Jameis makes more sound decisions as he grows as an individual.

Furthermore, folks, particularly those deemed millennials, need to not go popping off after hearing parsed sound bites from a liberal media without getting command of the facts first.  When I hear people making political commentary, from top level members of the mainstream media to folks I meet sitting at the bar who offer general commentary on a subject I know to be false, I am reminded of the words of Ronald Reagan:

"Well, the trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant; it's just that they know so much that isn't so."

And don't think for a moment that the goings on behind this misdirection and distortion of the facts through out the media landscape is not political.  Recall Bob Costas lecturing America on gun control?

Head 'Husker

Last Thursday, The University of Nebraska named Mike Riley as head football coach.  The move to hire Riley, head coach at Oregon State, as head 'Husker came completely out of left field, almost literally. While some may claim to have had insight to this hire, they would be lying, as nobody saw this coming.

Nebraska football coach Mike Riley/Photo LJS

Riley grew up in Corvallis, home of the Beavers where he had spent the last decade, so it seemed like he would remain there to conclude his career.  However, when the opportunity presented itself, the 61 year old Riley could not resist.  While Riley and his family no doubt have deep affinity for the Oregon State community, for a football coach looking for expansive resources to teach his craft backed by an unrivaled fan base, there is no place like Nebraska.

In the aftermath of firing Bo Pelini, Nebraska AD Shawn Eichorst had to get this hire right.  Many doubted Eichorst could pull it off, including me, but he operated in secret and got a very good football coach.  Most in the national media, inclusive of ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit, gave the Huskers high marks for the hire.

For the average fan in Husker Nation, this hire was met with bewilderment.  However, for those who follow the game intently, or have moderate knowledge of the game through having played or coached, the hire of Riley invokes a high level of optimism.

While there is no question Bo Pelini is a very good football coach and left the Nebraska program in better shape than he found it in, Riley has a proven track record of excelling in avenues many feel were below average under Pelini.  Examples of these areas would include growth and progression at the quarterback position, the development of players and mental toughness, of which attention to detail would be part.

I have followed Riley for many years and have been most impressed with what he has accomplished at Oregon State, who in 2013 lost a 36-35 squeaker to high powered cross state rival Oregon.  Riley can flat coach, and I am very excited at what he may be able to accomplish given the resources available at Nebraska.

The more those who question the hire get a chance to become engaged with Riley and his abilities, I think they will become more and more pleased with the hire.  Nobody has a crystal ball, but I do subscribe that Riley has all the qualities and attributes the Husker fan base is seeking in leading the Big Red back to national prominence.

That national prominence, with apologies to national pundits such as Dan Patrick who think Nebraska needs to know their place in the college football landscape, includes challenging for the national title.  That has been the history of Nebraska, and it will be such in the future.  After all, there is no place like Nebraska.  GBR!

Is FSU Target of Political Left?

It was shortly before President Obama was elected in 2008, when comments made by Michelle Obama got her yanked off the campaign trail, as these comments, if appropriately analyzed by a curious media, would pull the mask away from the blank canvas many considered Barack Obama to be and alert the nation to some of the real, hidden objectives.

Please take a listen to the following commentary from Michelle Obama while in Puerto Rico in 2008:

 

"Barack knows that we are going to have to make sacrifices; we are going to have to change our conversation, we're going to have to change our history, our traditions. We're going to have move into a different place as a nation", said Mrs. Obama.

Might changing of traditions include the demise of football in America?  Without question, the game of football is under attack from the political left, all the way up to the White House.  President Obama has publicly admonished the use of the nickname Redskins by the Washington Redskins of The National Football League, and through his associates, most notably Sen. Majority Leader Harry Reid (D:NV), have gone after Redskins owner Daniel Snyder, a republican, for both failing to bow to political pressure and for having the audacity to not support Obama and his vision of American.  The NFL remains under attack.

Fast forward to what is happening to Florida State University in college football, the currently undefeated defending national champions.  Last fall, star quarterback Jameis Winston, a redshirt freshman, was leading the Seminoles to their undefeated championship season when he was questioned about a sexual assault.

After an investigation by the state attorney, the state attorney's office found the evidence did not support charging Winston with any crime.  While many in the media were in uproar, Winston went on to win The Heisman Trophy while guiding the Seminoles to their third National Championship.

Since that time, Winston has had some lapses in maturity, walking out of a grocery store without paying for crab legs he ordered and yelling obscenities, sexual in nature which is certainly inappropriate considering the charges which considered against him, in the FSU student union.

No doubt, while Winston is stellar on field, he is at times immature off it, failing to accurately gauge the temperature outside in this era of appropriate non-tolerance of assault against women.  Although the Winston case was and is a factor, the blowup surrounding Baltimore Raven running back Ray Rice, who struck his girlfriend and now wife in an elevator and who has been suspended from the NFL ever since, has been at the forefront publicly.

But has the left found Winston as a vehicle to punish political opponents, be they individuals, agencies, or even public universities? Don't laugh.  I am wondering, as I review a series of events.  Maybe you should too.

In 2008, as reported by The Tampa Bay Times, "A foundation bankrolled by Libertarian businessman Charles G. Koch has pledged $1.5 million for positions in Florida State University's economics department. In return, his representatives get to screen and sign off on any hires for a new program promoting "political economy and free enterprise."  The article references "a separate grant from BB&T (formerly run by John Allison, who is supporter of Rand philosophies) funds a course on ethics and economics in which Ayn Rand's "Atlas Shrugged" is required reading. The novel, which depicts society's collapse in the wake of government encroachment on free enterprise, was recently made into a movie marketed to tea party members".

In my opinion, Atlas Shrugged, should be required reading for students within the economics department. The writings of Ayn Rand are an excellent defense of capitalism, although in my view they lack a necessary moral component.

The political left reviles the Koch Brothers, thinking anything they touch is evil.  As such, the interaction of the Koch brothers with the FSU Economics Department has stirred up plenty of controversy, with the progressive left labeling it a clandestine takeover of Florida State University.

Fact are always stubborn things, and never mind the Economics Department is still run by the many of the same folks, inclusive of the Dean of the College of Social Sciences Dr. David Rasmussen and Dr. James Gwartney, that were running things when I graduated from there in 1987. 

The department was always centered on free markets drawn upon from the Austrian economic models, and although Keynesian model coursework was engaged upon, social justice through economic policy was not deemed a logical and efficient mechanism of theory.

Not only has the debate centered upon the Economics Department, even FSU's Department of Earth, Ocean & Atmospheric Science has come under fire, for the truth about climate change may derail many a progressive dream of citizen control. 

Liberal and progressive ideology is bankrolled by groups and individuals all across the nation in public universities, hiring faculty to teach these theories nationwide.  See Ward Churchill and Austan Goolsbee.

The relationship between the Koch Brothers and Florida State University recently came to a head in the form of additional attacks as the university engaged in a search for a new president with Eric Barron accepting the same position at Penn State.  Representatives from the left, inclusive of students and media outlets, lambasted FSU as John Thrasher, an alumni and republican in the state senate, became the leading candidate.  A lack of transparency, the fact he is a conservative and that he may have gotten political donations from the Koch brothers were among the reasons cited.  Facebook pages and websites, (with support from leftist organizations such as MoveOn.org), sought to force FSU to eliminate Thrasher from consideration.  At the conclusion of the rocky search, Thrasher was hired as the fifteenth president of the university.

In the background have been countless insinuations and accusations surrounding the football program, most of which was without merit. Some weeks back, four competing "sports" outlets, Sports Illustrated, Fox Sports, ESPN and The New York Times each released a detailed report citing transgressions on a Friday evening.  Since when do competing firms sync up for the release of a report to share eyeballs? They don't, unless there is orchestration.

It is worth noting, nothing of material significance was found to be of consequence within these reports.

With respect to Winston, few if anyone has actually read the report surrounding the sexual assault case.  Any reasonable assessment of the facts of the case will lead the reader to easily conclude that the accuser lacks credibility.

The reports of investigators continuing to investigate Winston is simply staggering.  Recent accusations, primarily from ESPN, told a tale of Winston getting paid to sign autographs, which would make him ineligible for collegiate competition.  However, after months of stories of this action blasted all over the sports media, it is now reported that the items he supposedly autographed are fake, not actually having his signature.

Winston signs thousands of autographs, as I have personally witnessed on many an occasion.  In fact, at a baseball game FSU played at Stetson University in Deland, FL, ESPN reporter Marty Smith stood two feet away from me watching Winston sign hundreds; for free.

Recently, The New York Times released a report indicating favoritism by the Tallahassee Police Department regarding a traffic citation issued to cornerback PJ Williams.  With seemingly no action to investigate as President Obama sadly runs roughshod over our Constitution, The New York Times appears well staffed in Tallahassee, fabricating targeted news unfit to print. Guilty until proven innocent is now en vogue with the media.  FSU responded quickly and with assertion, and the story seems to have gone away.

The New York Times is agenda driven to be sure.  In the aftermath of a tragic shooting at the Strozier Library on the Florida State campus, in describing the story, The Times made reference to the issues surrounding the football team (fabricated), which has zero relevance to the actions of a disturbed individual.

ESPN continues to blatantly target FSU as well. In a recent report of talented Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota receiving a traffic ticket, it was the picture of Winston that was presented, and no, he was not involved.  This was not an error, but rather an orchestrated opportunity to tarnish FSU.

Why are all these media outlets exhausting all efforts to take down Florida State. While one could envision Sports Illustrated, FOX Sports and certainly ESPN performing investigative sports reporting, I find it offensive that The New York Times cannot find enough in Washington to keep them busy without the gray lady taking up hotel rooms in Tallahassee.  I wonder who is directing their investigative action, and why?

But then again, perhaps due to the relationship between Florida State and the evil Koch brothers, we can find a logical reason these competing interests are relentless in their investigative attacks on FSU.  It appears Florida State University may be getting attacked by the political left, who gleefully employ the tactics of their mentor Saul Alinsky; achieving goals by any means necessary to punish political enemies both financially and in the court of public opinion.

No worries. Florida State University remains The Unconquered!

The Hall of BAHL

Sports is and always has played a significant role in my life. I have found that most all of life's lessons are learned between the lines. Discipline, individual responsibility, teamwork and sportsmanship are among many opportunities presented within the games that offer guidance to prosper in life.

Over the years, there have been many individuals associated with sports that I have looked up to, been a fan of, owned a jersey of or just pulled for. These are my guys, and although it has not always been a road without bumps for many, these are my guys. In an effort to recognize these folks, I have formed The Hall of BAHL.

Individuals making this list may or may not be the greatest ever players, coaches or ambassadors, but they are my favorites.

Each year, I will induct five members into The Hall of BAHL. In honor of my good buddy and Sportsman Big Ole BudFeiser, who we lost in 2011 and who I grew up playing sports with, each class will annually be announced on his birthday, June 13.

The inductees for the 2014 Hall of BAHL class are listed in no particular order below:


MIKE ROZIER

Although my beloved Nebraska Cornhuskers had won back to back national titles in 1970-71, I was quite young and was unable to completely enjoy the ride.  As the early eighties arrived, a collection of talent that came together in Lincoln that created an environment of championship expectations, culminating in 1983 with a pre-seaason Number 1 ranking based on the scoring explosion, a lethal offense led by playmakers QB Turner Gill, FL Irving Fryar and I-Back Mike Rozier.

Rozier was not blessed with blazing breakway speed, but few were blessed with such nimble moves and sheer toughness as Rozier.  As Rozier emerged at Nebraska, during his junior year, the Cornhukser coaching staff moved future NFL Hall of Famer Roger Craig from tailback to fullback to get Rozier on the field.

A bruising runner, Rozier punished would be tacklers; if the could get a hit on him.  He crushed a guy at K-State, and used his ability to make tacklers miss in a highlight touchdown run in Lincoln versus UCLA.

During his senior season, one which culminated with Rozier winning the Heisman Trophy, he set many records helping Nebraska reach the 50th Orange Bowl to play for the national title and an undefeated season.  The 'Husker defense was not as stout as the offense in 1983, and with Rozier tearing up an ankle having to miss the second half, the Big Red fell short against Miami 30-31.

Rozier went on the United States Football League, but could never get rolling due to the ankle.  An opportunity to play in the NFL emerged, and Rozier answered the call, making the Pro Bowl with the Houston Oliers.

Life is good these days for Mkie Rozier.  He turns heads with his wardrobe during the annual Heisman Trophy presentation and has become a fan favorite in ESPN's Heisman House commercials.

Thankfully, Mike Rozier remains close to the Nebraska program, availing himself to his legions of beloved fans.  I am one of those fans, and welcome Camden, New Jersey's Mike Rozier to The Hall of BAHL.






DERRICK BROOKS

Arriving from Pensacola Washington High School as a strong safety, Derrick Brooks became perhaps the finest linebacker ever to play at Florida State University, helping the Seminoles win their first National Championship in 1993.

Derrick Brooks

Brooks was everywhere, somewhat rewriting the position with a rare combination of speed and strength, destroying opposing offensive efforts via ground or air.  The ability to come off the edge and disrupt the quarterback at opportune times, using his high level of intelligence, changed the complexion of many games.  Derrick also collected turnovers, and from his position on defense, found paydirt many times during his famed career.

The two time consensus All-American was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, whom he helped lead to a Super Bowl Championship in 2002.  During his NFL career, Brooks was a consistent Pro Bowl performer, having named Defensive Player of the Year in 2002.  Brooks was appropriately elected to the NLF Hall of Fame in 2014.  Perhaps his greatest achievement was having been named the 2000 co-recipient of the NFL's Water Payton Man of the Year, an award derived to recognize excellence on, and off, the gridiron.

Brooks remains close to the Florida State family, having been named to the Florida State University Board of Trustees.  Brooks is an outstanding ambassador for FSU, and the State of Florida.

Derrick Brooks

A fine man and among the best players to ever suit it up for both Florida State and Tampa Bay, I am thrilled to have Derrick Brooks join the Hall of BAHL.


KYLE PETTY

It seems only natural, having been a longtime fan of Richard Petty, to also become a fan of his son Kyle as his stock car career took shape.  It was an added plus, that as I was becoming a fan, Kyle was piloting Pontiac's out of the Felix Sabates stable.

There were highlights in the racing career of Kyle Petty, which included sitting on the pole for the 1992 Daytona 500 in his Mello Yellow sponsored Pontiac Grand Prix, and winning at Dover after starting 37th at Dover in his Coor's Light Pontiac Grand Prix.

Kyle had an attitude, and this made being his fan fun. We cheered when he punched Bobby Hillin for wrecking him out of the aforementioned 500.

With Kyle's time behind the wheel winding down, he spent time grooming his son Adam, who many thought had the talent of Richard which seemed to elude Kyle, for a shot a Sprint Cup.

Adam was well on his way, with that Petty smile, to big things on the Spring Cup Series when his life tragically came to an end in a practice session at New Hampshire International Speedway.  Adam's death, as you may imagine, hit Kyle and his family hard.

Kyle changed his car number from 44 to 45, Adam's number, after his death.  Sprint and Wells Fargo were sponsors.  I had a chance to see Kyle and Adam race together in a Busch Series race at Daytona International Speedway, which I cherish.

But, in impressive fashion, Kyle wanted to honor Adam with something meaningful and long lasting. The death of Adam Petty gave birth to The Victory Junction Gang, a camp honoring Adam for children with chronic diseases which over the years, has brought a tremendous amount of joy to these children and their families.  This has been an inspiration to us all.

Full disclosure, one of my companies held an annual golf tournament which raised money for Victory Junction Gang, and its local partner, Camp Boggy Creek.

Kyle has retired as driver, and has found a home as an analyst for Sprint Cup Racing with FOX Sports and TNT Sports.   Petty remains opinionated, ruffling feathers along the way.  There are many times I disagree with Kyle, but I know his thoughts come from his line of thinking, and that is fair.


While Kyle was driving, he drove some really cool looking cars.  Two Pontiacs I especially liked were his Mello Yellow Pontiac and his Hot Wheels Pontiac.  Through his television career, we continue to get a chance to viist with Kyle all along the circuit.  Kyle Petty is welcomed as a 2014 Hall of BAHL inductee.


DEION SANDERS

I remember my Mother had watched Florida State get killed at Florida, and while we were in depression, she pointed out that that your man on defense who returns kicks is really special.  Indeed, in all my years, Deion Sanders, perhaps along with Bo Jackson, is perhaps the most gifted athlete I have been around.

Deion arrived as an unheralded recruit out of North Fort Myers, but it only took a practice for the coaches to recognize that they had a world class athlete that could take the program to the top.

Sanders dazzled from the get go, receiving All America honors and wining the Jim Thorpe Award as the nations top defensive back.  "Prime Time" was at his best against top competition, toying with some and outclassing many.  Sanders picked a pass in the end zone to preserve a Sugar Bowl victory over Auburn and blistered Clemson on a 75 yard punt return in the Puntrooskie game at Death Valley.


Sanders calls out Clemson prior to punt return TD

With Neon Deion a human highlight film on the gridiron, it is noted that Sanders ran track at FSU, running a leg of a 4X100 relay in his football pants, and starred on the baseball team. While at FSU, Sanders was always singled out, by both Bobby Bowden and Mike Martin, as among the hardest working athletes ever to wear the garnet and gold.

Sanders went on to a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, most notably with the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys. In addition, Sanders starred with the Atlanta Braves, becoming the first player to score a touchdown in the NFL and hit a home run in MLB in the same week.  Astonishing!

Without question, Deion Sanders is among the greatest athletes of our time, recording record setting performances in College Football, The National Football League and Major League Baseball.

I am thankful to have witnessed many of his historical performances in person, and currently enjoy his work with the NFL Network.  It is a pleasure welcome Deion "Prime Time" Sanders to the Hall of BAHL.




LEE CORSO

Unfortunately, for the longest time, I only knew of Lee Corso from a historical perspective.  I followed his coaching career at Indiana and heard all the stories of his record setting skills as a defensive back at Florida State in the late 1950's.  Yep, no matter the age, all FSU football scholars were well aware of the stellar career at FSU of "The Sunshine Scooter"

I first met Corso when he became Head Coach of the Orlando Renegades of the USFL in 1985.  It only lasted a year, but Orlando really enjoyed that team and it was great fun back in those days.

However, Corso is now a beloved star across the nation due to his performances on ESPN's Gameday.  The show is tremendous, pushed to must see status by the antics of Corso.  At first, it was simply the pencil and his frequent politicking for beautiful downtown Orlando, where Corso remains a resident up in the Alaqua area.

Corso reached new heights when he started assuming mascot costume status for his final pick of the day, jousting fans along the way.  This is must see viewing for the college football fan, and has really become part of the historical fabric of the color and pageantry of the game.

Fans across the nation cheer Corso, mobbing him at public appearances seeking pictures and autographs.  These are great times for Corso, who is well deserving.  As fans, we are lucky to still have an opportunity to enjoy his Gameday antics, as a stroke in 2009 almost ended it all.

At FSU, Corso was roommates with Burt Reynolds and remains regarded as part of a core of a historical that helped FSU get on the map.  Corso, due to his capacity at ESPN, is asked not to publicly cheer for his beloved Seminoles, and while he remains quite professional, he can't hide his pride and love for the Seminoles.

 

Long before Gameday, as Seminoles, the "Sunshine Scooter" held a special place in our hearts.  Now, we find difficulty in having our college football Saturday's kickoff without him.  Corso loves the game of college football, and we love him.  It is an honor to welcome Lee Corso as a 2014 inductee in the Hall of BAHL.  

Decisions of Risk

Bo Pelini
Photo/ngngsports.com

Nebraska has lost yet another game which is deemed unacceptable.  There is a tradition of winning, competitiveness and sportsmanship around this program, which seems to be sifting from the grasp of the current coaching staff.

I had previously written that Bo Pelini would need to win out after the Minnesota road loss to save his job, and he did not.

The Husker fan base suffers a major divide on whether Pelini should be retained, and the media, most notably some of the Omaha World Herald staff, some Omaha radio personalities who are also playing favorites in this case and former Husker great Tommie Frazier.

Bleacher Report compiled a list of the pros and cons regarding his status.

I must admit I am very conflicted on this. I could do a punt counter punt all day long.

On the positive side of the ledger, the players love Bo and he does many things well. The program is clean, the academics are good and not withstanding the losses, there have been more wins.  In addition, the team is young and the future appears bright.

On the negative side, first of all firing him would be a huge financial blow to UNL in poor economic conditions. The injuries, particularly to Martinez, were significant in 2013. The most fundamental principle of the game, protecting the football, remains elusive under Bo.  As a defensive guru, there are mind boggling glaring issues with respect to formation, physicality and adjustments that are present.

Pelini stated he was comfortable with what his staff has accomplished, but I can assure you I am not only uncomfortable, but embarrassed, by getting whipped by the likes of Minnesota and Iowa, another home loss. 

At the end of the day, I would have him continue as coach at this time, but would need newly established goals to be met moving forward. There is quite a bit of young talent on the squad. An announcement one way or the other should come promptly, for the uncertainty is significantly damaging recruiting.

It did, as AD Shawn Eichorst released a statement which said Pelini would continue as coach.

There is a strong element of the fan base that is horrified at this decision.  Tom Shatel at The Omaha World Herald comments, and Mitch Sheman, at ESPN, formerly with the OWH and not a Pelini fan, did a piece at ESPN.com.

Ohters, think Eichorst was not clear, and that Pelini is still going to be terminated.

After the Eichorst statement, Pelini released a statement of thanks and apology.

The bowl game will present an opportunity for the future for Pelini and his relationship with this university, and 2014 will be a season where measurable gains, from conduct on the field to performance on it, will need to be obtained. 

We will all be watching.

The Blessing of Life

With violence erupting around the world and economic conditions causing pain to many here in America, we can always appreciate those heart warming stories presented to us.

In the sphere of athletics is where I come into contact with many of these stories.  Almost every week, Tom Renaldi of ESPN College Gameday has a tremendous essay involving someone associated with The Color & Pageantry of college football.

Who can forget the tear jerking experience had by young Jack Hoffman at the spring game at The University of Nebraska.  Hoffman, with pediatric brain cancer, was allowed on the field on that day to run for a score, touching anyone with a heartbeat.  Hoffman became a star, and even won an ESPN ESPY Award, and is the face of the Team Jack Foundation.

Florida State University has a couple of such stories making the rounds this week.

Coach Jimbo Fisher and his wife Candi were guest on FOX & Friends on Tuesday morning discussing their Kidz1st Fund, which they created to battle Fanconi Anemia, which Coach Fisher's son Ethan has.  Upon learning of the diagnosis, the Fisher's decided to appropriately utilize their position to help bring awareness to Fanconi Anemia, and they report strides are being made.

Another story making the rounds in Seminole nation is that of Peyton Poulin.  Former Seminole Club of Greater Orlando president Fred More recounts a story:

Six years ago Payton Poulin was the guest of Sherri Holstrum, his art teacher, at the spring banquet of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando.  As a friend of Sherri and past president of the Seminole Club of Greater Orlando, I had the honor of introducing Payton to Bobby Bowden, then, of introducing Payton to the 300 plus Seminole Boosters in attendance.

Following the telling of this very moving story, Rob Sahlin and Bill Neal, on cue, lifted Payton and his Seminole bedecked wheel chair into the air, all the while Payton giving the Seminole Chop a heavy dose of lifelong devotion and enthusiasm.  Coach Bowden led the standing ovation, while a number of us tried to hold back the tears of shear admiration.

For the rest of this amazing story, please see the following video presented by Tomahawk Nation:



We are all God's Children, wonderful in the eyes of our Lord, and every day is a blessing.

Political Culprits Lining Up In Circles

According to the the Progressives, the elite ruling class, adoring Obamabots and idiots at large among the most fervent admirers of our Commander in Teleprompter, we are informed that President Obama is a man of unprecedented vision, among the most intellectually astute and charmed individual ever to aspire to public service.

 

So much so, in fact, as reported by John Fund in The Corner, the admiration of the all knowing Obama his chief advisor Valerie Jarrett knows no bounds. “I think Barack knew that he had God-given talents that were extraordinary. He knows exactly how smart he is. . . . He knows how perceptive he is. He knows what a good reader of people he is. And he knows that he has the ability — the extraordinary, uncanny ability — to take a thousand different perspectives, digest them and make sense out of them, and I think that he has never really been challenged intellectually. . . . So what I sensed in him was not just a restless spirit but somebody with such extraordinary talents that had to be really taxed in order for him to be happy. . . . He’s been bored to death his whole life. He’s just too talented to do what ordinary people do.”

Michael Ramirez/Investors Business Daily

Since Uncle Sam was so fortunate to have this extraordinary charlatan as our President, we the constituents recognize his keen insight into pop culture events, sporting event prognostication and divisive behavior among law abiding citizens.

 

However, with untold scandals entangling his administration, ones which have cost the lives of those charged to serve and protect this country, violated countless economic, contract and constitutional laws and nationalized private commerce across the fruited plain, we are told Obama was not integrally involved.

 

No, Obama cannot be held accountable, for he was not involved.  Back during attack on our country via the murder of Ambassador Chris Stevens and three other Patriots in Benghazi, Obama was playing cards.  It was the eighth re-run of Sportscenter on ESPN when the NSA spying program was given the OK.  Obama was busy on sustainable community research when the Obamacare website was given a trial run.  In his brilliance, Obama was tapped in via electronic surveillance on Tea Party groups when untold illegal aliens were released to collect entitlement benefits while plotting their next blue collar crime.

 

It is simply beyond ridiculous.

 

Obama is eager to take credit for any measurable success which is championed by not only his supporters, but a criminally complicit media. However, when things go wrong, without question the President was otherwise occupied and cannot and will not be held responsible.  

 

Those who are deemed responsible are lining up in circles, and the citizenry is getting whip sawed.

 

It is in fact the Limbaugh theorem; Obama cannot be held accountable for destruction he is perceived to not have been part of the implementation or orchestration thereof.  Certainly, the public did not feel the need to hold him accountable as he defeated Mitt Romney in 2012.

 

But, the Obamacare debacle may be too much for even this smooth talking impostor President to overcome.  After all, certainly he would be responsible for something proudly bearing his name.

 

Or will he?  Trick or Treat.

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.      Alabama, 6-0, 1
2.      Oregon, 6-0, 2
3.      Florida, 6-0, 4
4.      Kansas State, 6-0, 4
5.      Notre Dame, 6-0, 6
6.      LSU, 6-1, 9
7.      South Carolina, 6-1, 3
8.      Ohio State, 7-0, 8
9.      Oregon State, 5-0, 10
10.    Oklahoma, 16, 16
11.    Southern Cal, 5-1, 13
12.    Florida State, 6-1, 14
13.    Georgia, 5-1, 15
14.    Stanford, 4-2, 12
15.    West Virginia, 6-1, 7
16.    Clemson, 5-1, 17
17.    Louisville, 6-0, 18
18.    Mississippi State, 6-0, 19
19.    Texas Tech, 5-1, NR
20.    Michigan, 4-2, 25
21.    Rutgers, 6-0, 20
22.    Cincinnati, 5-0, 21
23.    Texas, 4-2, 11,
24.    Texas A&M, 5-1, 22
25.    Texas Christian, 5-1, NR

OUT:  Baylor (19) and Michigan State (25)

VOTES:  Louisiana Tech, Nebraska, Northwestern, North Carolina, North Carolina State, Ohio, Wisconsin, Arizona, Boise State, Oklahoma State, Arizona State, UCLA, Penn State, Washington, Iowa State and Baylor.

Florida State hosted a struggling Boston College team in Tallahassee for Parents Weekend and opened up an aerial assault, trouncing the Eagles 51-7.  On the surface, it look quite good as a rebound for the devastating last second defeat at North Carolina State last week.  Although several Seminoles played well, there were glitches that formidable teams would have taken advantage of.  EJ Manuel looked wonderful much of the night, but also had some very poor throws over the middle, an area he continues to show weakness in.  The running game performed well, but left you seeking more.  On a good note, more players got time, and many made the most of their opportunities.  James Wilder, Jr. has top level potential, and Mario Edwards, Jr. got in the mix.  When the younger players got in, I kept seeing Reggie Northrup making plays, and I was glad to see Clint Trickett get some series.  This was a sound win over a weak team, and now comes the test of a hated rivalry as FSU travels to south Florida for a Saturday night tilt with the Miami Hurricanes.  FSU has been handling Miami over the last few years, and should do so again.  But in rivalry games, particularly this one, should have is often a phrase for the following Sunday.  If FSU has any hope of being relevant nationally in the BCS title discussions, they must throttle Miami.  Notre Dame and Kansas State, both ranked above FSU, did so, 52-13 and 41-3 respectively.  Whatever Miami has to offer will be seen Saturday night. For FSU, it is time to step up.  It is our time.

Thankfully, after the ass kicking Nebraska took a week ago at Ohio State, they had the weekend off.  Hopefully, the coaches made effective use of the time, for a loss at Northwestern next Saturday could cost many, if not all of them, their jobs.  GBR!

There were winds swirling at some 40MPH down in Lubbock Saturday afternoon, and the high flying aerial attack of West Virginia had no answers as they got hammered 49-14 by Texas Tech, who had guns up!.....In the Red River Rivalry at the Texas State Fair OU slobber knockered Texas in the Cotton Bowl.  Whoa nellie was this decisive.  Defensively, Texas was pushed around and had every offensive weakness exposed.  In front of a national television audience on ABC, this was an embarrassment for those in burnt orange......Florida made the plays it had to, disposing of Vanderbilt on the road.  With South Carolina coming to The Swamp, a huge opportunity exists for the Gators.  Carolina will be angry, having been disposed of in Death Valley down in Baton Rouge by a rough LSU team who surprisingly controlled the line of scrimmage....With lightning bolts firing, God tried to call of the mugging of Mizzou by Alabama in Columbia.  No such luck; 42-10 BAMA.....UNC won at Miami and has a top notch player in RB Giovanni Bernard, who is from south Florida.... USC is still not USC, but they won at Washington....Stanford almost tied in overtime, with a controversial call negating a tying overtime touchdown.  What can you say; it was the luck of the Irish...Duke got out 20-0 over Va. Tech, but lost 41-20....Iowa upended Michigan State, and hopes for a strong season in East Landing have collapsed.... Wisconsin seems to have settled on a quarterback, and behind Monte Ball, whipped Purdue.....Michigan and Denard Robinson showed that on occasions, the Wolverines can be stout.....Ohio State, off their big win versus Nebraska, survived against pedestrian Indiana.....TCU played well in defeating a sound Baylor squad....Oregon State keeps on rolling....A&M, behind brilliant young signal caller Johnny Manziel, held off an offensive La. Tech squad 59-57.  If only Manziel could play on defense for the Aggies...Auburn is 1-5, just two years removed from a national title, while it is amazing to see how far Colorado has fallen just 20 years from a national title.....Arkansas pummeled a very poor Kentucky team in game shortened by weather....Virginia, with new God awful looking orange helmets, is performing very poorly....K-State survived in Ames against an Iowa State team much better than you may think...Does Illinois wish they had Ron Zook back?...

Beano Cook (photo LJS)

Legendary ESPN College Football analyst Beano Cook passed away this week.   Beano, who brought his blue collar style to analyzing the games of the day, often reflected to a blustery afternoon in 1953 where Notre Dame and his beloved Pitt  Panthers tangled.  Cook helped bring younger viewers in touch with the lore of the past, keeping the history of the color and pageantry of college football relevant in a new age on the gridiron. Half of the time you would just chuckle when the obligatory reference of  Minnesota winning at Michigan 1956 was presented by Cook.  Beano was the guy who would tell you that the school with the most NFL passing yards was Purdue, about those great Pitt teams in the 1930's and who played for the old oaken bucket.  Perhaps the most famous quip of the witty Cook was noting that being the head football coach at Notre Dame was "the third toughest job in America after mayor of New York and President of the United States," ESPN analyst Lee Corso, as reported by CBS Sports, said "Beano was a unique human being and he was college football at ESPN. I am indebted to him. Beano was a tremendous help at the start of my television career and I would not be where I am today without him," Beano Cook was a fantastic ambassador of the sport of college football, and his unique analysis, particularly from a historical perspective, was invaluable.  God Bless you Beano, RIP

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1.     Alabama, 4-0, 1
2.     Florida State, 4-0, 3
3.     Oregon, 4-0, 4
4.     LSU, 4-0, 2
5.     Georgia, 4-0, 5
6.     South Carolina, 4-0, 8
7.     Kansas State, 4-0, 10
8.     West Virginia, 4-0, 7
9.     Stanford, 3-0, 9
10.   Notre Dame, 4-0, 15
11.   Florida, 4-0, 16
12.   Texas, 3-0, 12
13.   USC, 3-1, 13
14.   Clemson, 3-1, 11
15.   Ohio State, 4-0, 16
16.   Oklahoma, 2-1, 6
17.   Oregon State, 2-0, NR
18.   Louisville, 4-0, 21
19.   Michigan State, 3-1, 19
20.   Nebraska, 3-1, 20
21.   Texas Christian, 3-0, 22
22.   Mississippi State, 4-0, 24
23.   Rutgers, 4-0, NR
24.   Baylor, 3-0, NR
25.   Northwestern, 4-0, NR

OUT: UCLA (14), Michigan (18), Oklahoma State (25), and Arizona (23).

VOTES: UCLA, Oklahoma State, Wisconsin, Iowa State, Virginia Tech, Michigan, Arizona, Ohio, Tennessee, and Cincinnati.

ESPN Gameday at Tallahassee Saturday. Don't Hate!

The Sunshine Scooter, Lee Corso

It was a pleasure to take in ESPN College Gameday Saturday in Tallahassee with Chris Fowler, Desmond Howard, Kirk Herbstreit and The Sunshine Scooter, Lee Corso. ESPN does this right, and this family friendly event captures the color and pageantry of NCAA College Football in fun and fine fashion. Do attend one if given the chance.

Chris Thompson in prayer after scoring

Florida State tailback Chris Thompson gets the gameball as Florida State, after a slow start, demolished Clemson at Tallahassee Saturday. Clemson has a quartet of skill people, in quarterback Taj Boyd, back Andre Ellington and receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Sammy Watkins, that rival anyone in the country, and I do mean everyone. The Tigers threw everything and the kitchen sink at the Seminoles, inclusive of halfback passes, reverses and fake field goals. With FSU off balance, Clemson held the lead until early in the third quarter, when FSU unleashed 20 minutes of warpath, outscoring the Tigers 35-3 in an approximate 20 minute period. It was something to behold. Chris Thompson was spectacular, James Wilder Jr. ran strong and EJ Manuel stepped up his game big time, something all Seminoles had been hoping to see. FSU has a stellar defensive unit, and if the offense is what we saw Saturday night, the Seminoles should run the table provided they maintain a high level of maturity and focus, something recent teams have failed to accomplish.

 

Nebraska had a breather, welcoming in Idaho State, who left town with rug burns after getting blasted 73-7. Rex Burkhead was back for the Big Red, and the game provided an opportunity to get some younger defensive players work as the 'Huskers welcome in Wisconsin Saturday night for the ABC Game. The game will feature new uniforms for both teams, which I am not pleased about by any stretch of the imagination.

 

In a very odd early contest, after we blasted the 'Canes last week, they bolted out to a 19-0 lead at Georgia Tech, only to give up the next 36 before charging back to win in overtime. With all the issues at UM, this win may have got them into a bowl game......Ohio State and Michigan State both struggled with much inferior opponents, but somebody will need to step up as they play each other this week...LSU struggled at Auburn, and lost spots because of it,...while Oregon blasted upstart Arizona....South Carolina destroyed Missouri, who travels to UCF this weekend, who might just beat them...Arkansas is in real trouble, and although many expected issues in the aftermath of losing Coach Petrino, the season is about to be lost....Florida controlled Kentucky, a very bad team with a horrible quarterback, who could not hit the side of a barn Saturday, or any open receivers the Cats had either.....Michigan could not generate any offense at an improved Notre Dame, but they did assembly line plenty of turnovers and a four or five loss season is now a possibility for this preseason top ten team....TCU crushed Virginia, who was thought to be solid if not spectacular.....Oregon State shut down UCLA at the Rose Bowl in surprising fashion, and no doubt the Beavers are well coached....Terry Bowden and his Akron Zips took Tennessee late at Rocky Top, and Bowden ball is gaining momentum in Ohio ....Ohio, meanwhile, could run the table under former 'Husker boss Frank Solich, which would be yet another black eye for Pitt AD Steve Pederson.....Oklahoma falters again, losing to a very good K-State team at Norman, and while OU has issues, K-State does not and could be on the way to the BCS...Kirk Ferentz at Iowa has always been very highly thought of, and I have never been sure why. After the Hawkeyes stumbled badly and lost at home to Central Michigan, others are wondering the same thing....Big weekend for many, including Mich. State, Ohio State, Nebraska, Texas, Virginia Tech, West Virgina and Miami.

Kick It Off!

It is time! Come Along!

Pony Up

ESPN College Football Analyst Craig James has taken a leave of absence from the network as he ponders a run for US Senate in his home state of Texas. James, who starred at SMU and The New England Patriots, is a real estate developer and has been covering college football for some 20 seasons.

In preparation for a potential run, James has founded Texas for a Better America, which focuses on the ideals of free markets, entrepreneurial spirit, protecting the Constitution and American Exceptionalism. James seems like a great guy, and with a platform like that he could be the type of representative we are searching for.

James would be joining an already crowded field. One of his potential GOP opponents, Ted Cruz, who I am unfamiliar with but who has the endorsements of David Barton, Jim DeMint and Rand Paul, each of whom I respect and support, has a great video hammering Obama. Check out The ghost of Obama's Future:

Top 25

College Football

Top 25

1. Louisiana State, 10-0, 1

2. Oklahoma State, 10-0, 2

3. Alabama, 9-1, 4

4. Oregon, 9-1, 6

5. Oklahoma, 8-1, 5

6. Arkansas, 9-1, 8

7. Clemson, 9-1, 9

8. Virginia Tech, 9-1, 10

9. Stanford, 9-1, 3

10. Michigan State, 8-2, 12

11. Kansas State, 8-2, 11

12. Wisconsin, 8-2, 13

13. South Carolina, 8-2, 14

14. Georgia, 8-2, 15

15. Boise State, 8-1, 7

16. Southern Cal, 8-2, 16

17. Houston, 10-0, 17

18. Florida State, 7-3, 19

19. Michigan, 8-2, 22

20. Nebraska, 8-2, 23

21. Texas Christian, 8-2, NR

22. Southern Miss, 9-1, 24

23. Penn State, 8-2, 18

24. Notre Dame, 7-3, 25

25. Baylor, 7-3, NR

OUT: Georgia Tech (21) and Texas (20)

VOTES: Texas, Missouri, Iowa, Wake Forest, Georgia Tech, Florida, Auburn, Cincinnati, West Virginia, Virginia, Utah, Ohio State, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, Washington and BYU.

Yet another honors candidate players is lost for the season as RB Henry Josey of Missouri tore up his knee versus Texas on Saturday...Houston, held scoreless in the opening quarter, still put 73 on Tulane....Colorado got a big win, blasting Arizona...Arizona State's hopes for a big season hit the floor as they were dumped at Wazzu...Toledo lost 63-60 to Northern Illinois last week, but got the win this week 66-63 over Western Michigan wearing out the scoreboard operator....UCF fired their AD under allegations of violations, just as a Big East invite is looming...Oregon laid a smack down on Stanford, and seemingly damaged Andrew Luck's walk away Heisman win...Florida is woeful on offense and will be dogs at home versus FSU for potential sixth loss...Michigan State got a big road win at Iowa....Georgia spanked Auburn is surprising fashion and the Dawgs seem to be peaking after 0-2 start....Ole Miss got punted by LA Tech, and Houston Nutt is gone at seasons end....It does not appear anyone is interested in winning the Big East....Ohio State, just getting their footing in 2011, fell at Purdue for the fourth time in six seasons.....Kentucky is really having a poor season, as is Tennessee....Okie State smashed Texas Tech at Lubbock....The Texas Aggies lost another close one....Early promise of a good season has crashed at Mississippi State and Maryland.

It was perhaps the worst week for the game of college football with the horrific events that have occurred at Penn State coming to light. Former Defensive Coordinator Jerry Sandusky set this all in motion with the alleged heinous acts he committed, and the cover up has led to the arrest of school administrators and the firing of the school President and legendary football coach Joe Paterno. Chris Fowler of ESPN nailed it by saying the situation is simply incomprehensible.

With deep sadness across the land, a game was to be played on Saturday at State College, and it was the Nebraska Cornhuskers, a program know for its great fan base, as the opponent. Nebraska receivers coach Ron Brown, a former executive with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, led the two teams in prayer before the game in a very touching gesture.

It was difficult to predict how this game would go, with all the mind boggling levels of emotion engulfing both squads. Against Penn State's strong defensive unit, the 'Huskers navigated their way through, and threw out some strong defense as well, to lead the whole way winning a close game 17-14. The 'Huskers needed the victory, and are happy to have escaped this ordeal with the win, saved in part by LB Lavonte David stuffing a Lion tailback on 4th and 1 and the NU 37 late in the ball game.

The horrendous Penn State story will continue to unfold, and it is likely to get much worse before it gets any better. This is an unprecedented story, which will permanently damage Penn State University on every front. Perhaps the game Saturday could begin the healing process for all involved.

Florida State held of the Miami Hurricanes, not withstanding a frontal assault by a horrendous officiating crew, 23-19 in Tallahassee. While the weather was top notch, the officiating was not. The Seminoles had three touchdowns taken off the board and numerous bogus personal foul penalties late kept Miami in the game. Defeating the Hurricanes is tough enough, but having to beat the officials on top of it is a real challenge.

Leading Seminole tackler Nigel Bradham was ejected for the following classic, and quite legal, hit, with ABC's Matt Millen once again with solid analysis.

Miami brought their A game, and I would expect nothing less. Florida State quite obviously remains a work in progress, as they did not play anywhere near their best football. But, a win against the Hurricanes, given the heartbreaking defeats over the years, is sweet no matter the score. A great evening in Tallahassee indeed!