To Brett Favre Fans

UPDATE: 3/4/08 -- Brett Favre announced today that he will retire. I'll write more later on that but, in the meantime, I wish him the best. He will now reign over Green Bay as Queen Favre I. Seriously though, he was an excellent quarterback...but his hijacking of the Packer franchise over the past few years (this year excluded) was very unnecessary. Green Bay has treated him well...and they deserved better from him in the lean years. But, I digress...the Princess has now become a Queen...or something.

Dear Brett Favre fans,

On May 17, 2007, I officially proclaimed Brett Favre a Princess. As evidence of such a claim, I discussed Favre's whining over the fact the Packers passed on Randy Moss and Favre's constant wavering on retiring. I also pointed out Brett Favre's interception record and Favre's obvious attempts to hijack the Packer franchise.

This season has seen Favre return to the form he showed in the mid-90s. He is now one game away from returning to the Super Bowl. And all the Favre-lovers want respect for the man that threw 47 interceptions in 2005 and 2006 and has set an interception record with 288.

So, I will show a little respect for Favre today. He, with the assistance of those players around him, have led the Packers back into the playoffs. Perhaps his 28 TD passes as compared to 15 interceptions if the reason. But I will not give sole credit for the Packers rebirth to Favre. The presence of a running game and an improved defense have to be credited as well.

Regardless of all of that, Favre remains a Princess and I'm sure that he will pass blame to whoever he can when the Packers are eliminated from the playoffs this weekend. And he will continue to play games to increase his public perception to the detriment of the Packers organization and his fellow players. That's just the way a princess acts. However, if Favre does win the Super Bowl, I will remove his tiara and apoligize. Until then, I present Princess Favre:

Mountaineer Basketball -- Get Some

Attended the WVU/Syracuse basketball contest on Sunday and I must say I was quite impressed by the Mountaineers. I had only attended one other game this season and that was against the lowly Baltimore Eastern Shore. That wasn't much of a contest. You would expect Syracuse to put up quite a fight against the Mountaineers but that certainly wasn't the case as WVU dominated Syracuse all over the court.

The much criticized Alex Ruoff scored 23-points in the Mountaineers 20-point victory over the Orange. Alexander, Flowers, Nichols and Butler all contributed big-time to the home victory. WVU has now won 14 straight at the Coliseum. The thing that is most shocking about this years Mountaineers is their ability to grab rebounds. Despite being outsized, the Mountaineers were only outrebounded by 3 boards.

The physical prowess of this year's Mountaineers puts the Beilein system to shame. They fight for everything on defense but still run a good offensive system. The amount of open layups and short jumpers were unbelieveable. It's a good team and I will be very surprised if they don't make it to the NCAA tournament this year. They'll keep getting better --- and Michigan will keep getting worse.

Iran is like Britney

Iran and President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad are very similar to Britney Spears. Now stick with me here because I'm really going somewhere with this...seriously. Let's start with Britney, shall we? Yes, we shall...

Britney Spears was once relevant to the world (or some people on said world). She was there entertaining people but eventually people got bored with her and started looking for other things to watch. But she couldn't stand not being the center of attention so she starting hanging out with other people who were bad influences. She started getting out of cars without panties so she would be in the headlines. The she really started going crazy and now most people are just sick of her but she can't come to the realization that she should just stay at home and take care of herself and her affairs. She still craves the public spotlight but the spotlight has moved on for most people.

And now, Mahmoud. Mahmoud became President in 2005 and started grabbing headlines by threatening Israel. He couldn't keep his mouth shut really. He talked of Iran's nuclear rights and everyone was paying attention. But, just like Britney, his act became old. You can only threaten Israel so many times before it loses some of its luster. He teamed up with Hugo and tried to show ties to North Korea...you know, the bad influences. But with recent success in Iraq and news that Iran suspended its nuclear program several years ago, Iran has faded into the background. Mahmoud still craves that spotlight and throws out a good controversial statement once in awhile to grab some headlines but he's not the center of attention he used to be. If he were smart, he would take the same advice I gave Britney which is to worry about home and not continue to draw unwanted attention to the negative sides of your country.

My guess is that both Britney and Mahmoud will fail to take my advice and both will continue to try to shock people to move the spotlight back to them. But for the most part, both are washed up and need to move on...at least that's what I think. And something tells me I'm not alone...

It's State Street!

It's been a short while since I talked about the major renovations happening in Fairmont. It's exciting...a waterpark and a road to Downtown. And Applebees opened. But I will focus in today on the I-79/Downtown Fairmont connector (or lack thereof).

The connector project has shockingly run short on funds. However they did find enough money to change my exit from Downtown to East Park Avenue and put up huge sign holders all along the construction area. The signs may be a bit premature considering there isn't a road leading from the nearly complete ramps to actual, you know, downtown. No fear though...the DOH is considering just connecting to the current State Street until the road can come up with the funds to be completed.

I don't know if you have traveled down State Street in its current condition or not but I have and, let me tell you, it's not a smooth ride. There are holes EVERYWHERE. Some will literally eat the tire off your car. There are portions of State Street where you seriously have to cross into the other lane of traffic to avoid total destruction of your vehicle. And they are seriously contemplating opening this up to interstate traffic?

To make matters worse, there is a huge water leak between the Dairy Mart on State Street and the lot that was formerly known as State Street School. It has been there for months and months and yet no one seems to want to do anything about it. Don't be surprised if there is another water shortage in February brought on solely by this massive State Street water leak.

Long story short, State Street is going to need major repairs to open the connector using the current two-lane road. So, does it make sense to really dump sorely needed funds into repairing a road they don't want or to push ahead and take that money and begin actual construction of the four-lane highway of the future? I would start the widening project now and get that road fixed instead of repaired and then go back to the working on the ramps later. But, hey, what do I know...I just live here. I'm sure Mr. Mollohan has a good plan...

State of the State

So many lowlights from the State of the State address last night delivered from Governor Manchin. I was a little surprised, and somewhat disappointed, that he didn't appoint himself Offensive Coordinator of the West Virginia Mountaineers. But there were plenty of other things the governor addressed that I will tell you about:

• Teachers. Oh, those teachers always wanting more money. 3.5% last year...3% this year. And a $400 bonus. Okay...well, that sounds alright. I think the teachers would gladly set aside this "bonus" for another 1% actual raise but, hey, it's money. But the $20 million in funds the governor wants to set aside as a "signing bonus" for teachers who are in higher demand is a powder keg. A teacher who receives a "signing bonus" is going to fulfill their obligation to meet the bonus (2-3 years or whatever) and then move on to a higher paying job if their salary isn't up-to-par. Wouldn't it make more sense to put that money into actual teacher's salaries to help shore up good teachers? And I cannot see how the teacher's unions are going to let this go. I see some serious longterm issues if this is really attempted.
• Governor Manchin wants to "establish a commission to thoroughly review the anti-bullying practices of our schools." Are you serious? Biggest waste of money ever. You want to handle school issues? Give teachers and principals the authority to actually discipline students and have the local and state boards back up the personnel. There, study done.

And, lastly, this one is important enough not to bulletin -- the changes to the Promise Scholarship. Governor Manchin wants recipients to either work in state after graduation or pay back the Promise. Actually, this is pretty easy and I will address it with a quick letter for the Governor:

Governor, if you want people to stay in this state following graduation then do something to create jobs and create opportunities. You want people to stay in this state, cut taxes and help businesses. You want people to stay in this state, eliminate the business franchise tax.

Joe, have you been around the state lately? People aren't rich here. Maybe you have been hanging around athletics too long with Rich and Nick but most people don't make $2 to $4 million a year. People count on the Promise and, when they are finished with school, look for a good paying job. There aren't a lot of those being created in the State of West Virginia and you aren't doing enough to change that fact.

Threatening students who want to build better lives is not a solution to the state's real issues. Why punish those who are taking advantage of opportunities either in state or out? Most people who leave West Virginia really didn't want to but were forced to by the lack of good careers in this state. Change that first before you threaten those who use the Promise to better their lives.

Oh, Those Tears

I called it Monday. Hillary cried, rumors started circulating that she was contemplating leaving the race and *BOOOM*, Hillary surges at the last minute to win New Hampshire. The "It's Not Easy" speech with the watering eyes showed Hillary's "compassionate" side and ignited a fire under the women who would have otherwise been swooned by the rock star, Barack Obama. For anyone to think these series of events were anything other than a scripted plan by the reeling Clinton campaign is pure naivety. They attracted media attention at a time they needed it most and invoked sympathy from the Democrat caucus-goers. If anyone thought Hillary was going to go silently into the night, they obviously haven't watched the Clinton's for the past 16 years.

There remains one out for Senator Clinton should she choke on Super Tuesday and be forced to concede the Democratic nomation and that out is to become head football coach at the University of Michigan. She could follow the lead of Rich Rodriguez and abandon her team (or party) when the going gets tough. I've heard that neither Hillary nor Michigan will comment on any coaching searches but there could be an offer on the table for the former First Lady. Of course, you shouldn't believe everything you read on the West Virginia Message Boards but someone claimed to know someone that knew someone that knew Roger Clinton. Or maybe they said George Clinton.

Things aren't nearly as interesting on the Republican side. McCain, Romney, Guiliani, Huckabee, Thompson...they're all pretty close in the running but none of them inspire greatness or ridicule as much as their Democratic counterparts. McCain won New Hampshire but I don't see him getting the nomination. Huckabee shouldn't survive Super Tuesday. Thompson's campaign is pretty lethargic even though he probably is the only true conservative in the race. It seems to be a race between Guiliani and Romney. Wake me up if one of them does something vaguely interesting...

Server Room Pictures

Most people remember the pictures of the server room here at the office I posted a year or so ago. And well, a lot has changed in there. So, I will give you a before and after today to show the dramatic change:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

Any questions?

Leaving So Soon?

Drudge is reporting that Hillary Clinton could be considering abandoning her run for President already. Losing in Iowa, trailing in New Hampshire and watching her lead nationally plummet, the former First Lady may be trying to cut her losses and minimize embarrassment to the Clinton name.

The question is whether there is any truth to this rumor or not. My guess is that this is a story planted by the Clinton Campaign to generate media reporting and warn Democrats that if they don't get in line behind Clinton soon, they will be stuck with Obama or Edwards. By threatening to leave the race, she's attempting to rally the troops to vote in the primaries and save her campaign. It will be interesting to see if this works or not...or, of course, I could be wrong and she's just really losing big time.

In an unrelated story that also involves leaving, I attended an East Fairmont basketball game this weekend. I don't attend many so it was entertaining to see the Bees score 103 points in their win over Brooke. More entertaining was an exchange between the one official at the game and a couple folks in attendance. Let me set the scene quickly: East Fairmont is leading Brooke by over 30-points. The ball is loose and Brooke and East players are scrambling and an East player is on the court and a Brooke player jumps on his head, possibly breaking his nose. A foul is called on another East player.

At this point, a fan from the crowd starts giving the ref "the business". He questions the officials ability to adequately officiate the game but nothing overly derogatory. Most officials would walk away but this referee decided to respond by saying there was a meeting on Sunday for new officials and they were always looking for new help. At this point, another fan chimes in that they definitely need new officials.

Apparently this set the ref over the edge and he asked security to excort both gentlemen from the game. Basically the referee threw out two patrons because he couldn't walk away and they were unhappy with the call. I know a ref has the authority to eject fans from games but this seemed like a huge error in judgement on the official's side. Dealing with criticism comes with the officiating job. Regardless, it was a very entertaining exchange and the first time I've seen a fan thrown out for just talking to the ref.

It's a New Year - Let the Gloom Begin!

It's a new year so that can only mean doom and gloom for the world. The media couldn't wait to get out the forecast for 2008, and it calls for a shortage of oil and food, recession, inflation, housing market collapse, credit woes and joblessness. To hear the American media tell it, you would think the world was on the brink of the apocalypse due to global warming and American tyranny around the world. Of course, this is the old playbook they have been using since George W. Bush was elected president. Everything around the world was rosy until January 20, 2001 when the United States swore in the man that would bring destruction upon all.

Of course the media has something besides impending doom to look at thanks to the 2008 election season. A savior could arise to save the world from total collapse into archaic ruin. For that to occur though, our next president would have to be a Democrat. Or at a minimum a liberal (Hello, Mike Huckabee).

I refuse to buy in to the media's portrayal of the State of the Union. Yes, there are credit issues and housing issues. The dollar is weak but that should actually help the economy within a year or so. The credit problem is the fault of American's who overextended themselves over the past several years and now find themselves in a jam that they should have to deal with, not every one. The housing collapse is the fault of these "flippers" who never thought the real estate market would correct itself. Once again, it is not the job of the American public to bail out people who can't pay their mortgage. Obviously, if there are simple methods to keep foreclosures lower, those steps should be taken but the American government should not be on the hook for makring mortgage payments.

On the international front, I remain cautiously optimistic. Pakistan, thus far, has been able to absorb the loss of Benazir Bhutton and is moving ahead with election despite a delay. Iran has lowered their rhetoric and I believe there are probably more backdoor meetings occuring with that country than any of us could imagine. Iraq has turned a corner and, with some perseverance and luck, we can create a stable government that rejects terrorism and tyranny. I believe that we are making progress despite the so-called "cowboy" policy we have used to "alienate" the rest of the world.

When all is said and done, no one knows what 2008 will bring. Sure, it could turn bad but it could also turn really good. I have faith in the United States and its citizens to work through the credit and housing troubles. I have faith in the American military to maintain stability throughout the most volatile regions in the world. I even have faith in our government to stay out of the way so Americans can solve our problems (well, I have a little faith...). I do not have faith in receiving a fair and accurate portrayal of any of this from the media because they have made it clear that what is bad for us is good news for them. And the media has already forecast doom and gloom and they certainly don't want to be wrong.

Some Random Things

First, there seems to be a growing backlash against Coach Stewart a mere 24 hours after it became official that he is the new coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers. It started with Ken Kendrick and has ballooned from there. There are many questions about his qualifications for the job and the circumstances surrounding his departure from VMI have raised several concerns. Many are afraid that hiring Coach Stewart was somewhat haphazard following the emotions of the Fiesta Bowl victory.

I am going to wait and reserve judgment. By bringing a splintered team together and pulling out a miraculous win over the Oklahoma Sooners, Coach Stewart earned a shot at leading the WVU Mountaineers in 2008 and beyond. No matter who you choose as coach, you're taking a leap of faith that they will be able to put together a winning program. Rich Rodriguez, while experienced and somewhat well-known, was not necessarily a "big name" hire. Only time can tell whether the University made a good or bad decision and I don't think it's fair to prematurely call the Stewart hire a failure until he has a chance to lead the Mountaineers on his own terms. Only then can we truly evaluate the decision fairly.

Next, Hilary Clinton took a hit last night in Iowa. The Clinton campaign has spent the last few weeks attempting to temper expectations in Iowa. A third-place finish has to hurt. Should she lose to Obama in New Hampshire, things could get very interesting on the Democrat side of the nomination race. The Clinton campaign has several major issues to resolve if they hope to put together a serious run for the presidency. I sense more troubles before they right the ship and ultimately win the nomination.

On the Republican side, I think nominating Mike Huckabee could be the biggest mistake the GOP could make. Huckabee is not an electable candidate. Democrats have to be hoping he gets the nomination. It's an uphill battle for the Republican candidate regardless of who is nominated. It the Republicans nominate Huckabee, they might as well concede the office to the Democrats.

Lastly this morning, I am still receiving e-mails regarding my post way back about Michael Vick kicking my dog. Apparently Vick has a lot of supporters out there. In case no one noticed, Michael Vick is serving a 23-month sentence for breaking the law. He is also facing felony charges in Virginia for his role in dogfighting and gambling activities. This is not a case of someone being wrongly accused. Vick, by pleading guilty, admitted to his role in dogfighting. And, by extension, dogfighting if for gambling. As I have said before, Mike Vick will never play in the NFL again and his supporters need to accept the fact that he is a criminal and a liar who blew his career. And he was never that great of a quarterback...

And the Bill Stewart Era Begins

Bill Stewart in now 1-0 as head coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers thanks to some unbelievable plays by Pat White, Noel Devine, Owen Schmitt and a much-maligned defense that somehow withstood the barrage the Oklahoma Sooners threw at them. In arguably the biggest game in West Virginia history (oh, how we like superlatives), the Mountaineers answered so many questions: Is there life after Rodriguez? Were there too many distractions to play a good game? Where did that defense come from? Who is the next WVU coach? All decided on the play of White and the other Mountaineers.

The first thing is obvious. Life definitely does continue after Rich Rodriguez. Did Coach Rod ever have a game like we saw in the Fiesta Bowl? Outside of a win over Virginia Tech and the massive first quarter against Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, have we ever seen WVU play four quarters of dominate football like they did against Oklahoma? The team played loose and opened the playbook a little and allowed our athletes to play ball. Sure, Slaton was injured but White, Schmitt, Devine, Reynaud and even Tito were allowed to make plays on the offensive side of the ball. White's arm wasn't perfect, but he threw enough to keep the Oklahoma defense honest.

There were distractions. The players and coaches admitted to it. Losing your coach and dealing with the State of West Virginia melting down could distract some people. McAfee was trying to figure out why people were destroying his car. Slaton was deciding whether to go to the NFL. And other players were trying to determine whether they were staying at WVU and, if they did, for whom they would be playing. But WVU took all the nervous energy and refocused and put together a game for the ages and didn't worry about the future. For 60 minutes, the Mountaineer focused solely on the opponent and all the distractions melted away, for both fans and players. And it was phenomenal.

Jeff Casteel may have saved his job with the dominate performance of the WVU defense. Did anyone expect West Virginia to stop Oklahoma and their freshman quarterback? While the special teams struggled on kickoff and punt coverage, the West Virginia defense stood tall against the vaunted Sooner offense. Sure, West Virginia was one of the top ranked defenses coming into the game but most people felt those numbers were somewhat disengenuous given the opponents. But Casteel's defense was faster and stronger than the Oklahoma defense. I was reminded of the days of the dominate WVU defense during the Nehlen era when West Virginia always did have one of the strongest defenses in the nation. Something I would enjoy seeing return.

Probably the biggest consequence of this win over Oklahoma is the fact that Bill Stewart is now coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers. Pat White and the gang basically laid down the gauntlet for the University following the game by proclaiming Stewart their first choice and challenged the administration to do the same. Stewart obviously is highly respected but the questions are going to come about his ability to recruit and to put together a national championship caliber staff. While I have never enjoyed watching a coach on the sideline more than watching Stewart last night, questions will abound about his ability to keep this program at a high level.

But those are all questions for the future. For today, Bill Stewart is the 32nd coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers and West Virginia has won their 3rd bowl game in a row. The Mountaineers now add a Fiesta Bowl trophy to the archives and fans can look forward to what may be next year. Today, it truly is a great day to be a Mountaineer wherever you may be.

The "Disappointed" Rich Rodriguez

Poor Rich Rodriguez was "disappointed" by the lawsuit West Virginia University filed to collect the $4 million dollars he owes the University. He was also surprised by "the scope of animosity" from the fans and admininistration. My favorite quote from Rodriguez is "I don't think that's normal. That's not normal protocol, I didn't think. Imagine my shock watching the game at the hotel with my family and it comes across that ticker, getting sued for $4 million. That wasn't a good night."

Well, Rich, imagine the disappointment and surprise from thousands of Mountaineer fans when they found out you went out to Toledo to meet with Michigan officials after professing your desire to stay at West Virginia. Imagine the disappointment and surprise of the WVU athletic department when it was revealed you planned to break a contract you just signed 6 months previous. Imagine the hopes of you leading us to a BCS Championship being dashed by Pitt and then the announcement that you would leave.

To pretend that you are surprised by the outpouring of emotion by Mountaineer fans is disingenuous at best. What reaction did you expect as you abandon a team that is getting ready to play in their second BCS bowl ever? Did you expect congratulations and best of luck from the Mountaineer fans that pay ever-increasing prices for your salary? Did you expect the athletic department to say "Hey, don't worry about that buyout."? You made a promise to Mountaineer fans and West Virginia University when you signed a contract stating you would be the coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers and you broke that promise when you resigned.

You are the one who has insinuated that you wouldn't be paying the buyout which left the university no choice but to file suit. And rightfully they have done so. Your innuendos that the university is in breach of contract has not been backed up by any fact what-so-ever. If there is proof that the atheletic department didn't live up to its word, then let that be known. Otherwise, pay the $4 million dollars that you owe West Virginia University and Mountaineer fans.

Rich Rodriguez lied to Mountaineer fans and to West Virginia University. He broke promises made to student-athletes and individual donors. And he continues to fight the University on money he owes them. Yet, he remains "surprised" that West Virginia fans are no longer fans of his. Delusional is the only word that comes to mind.

Goodbye 2007, Hello 2008

A quick 2007 in review: WVU over Georgia Tech in the Gator Bowl. Boise State upsets Oklahoma. Nick Saban goes to Alabama and Bill Cowher retires. Florida wins a national championship in football. And basketball. Snickers airs a "controversial" ad during the Super Bowl and Michael Irvin is removed from ESPN. Teachers threaten a walkout for more money and gas prices rise, rise, rise. "West Virgina" wins the NIT Championship and John Beilein leaves for Michigan. Bobby Huggins comes home. Hilary, Rudy, Obama, McCain and Romney provide entertainment for everyone while sports are not on. Barry Bonds is indicted and the Mitchell report is released (which I read every page). WVU begins preseason Top 5 and then loses to South Florida and Pitt. East Fairmont advances in the playoffs for the first time ever. The dollar drops, housing markets "collapse" and gas still rises. WVU gets invited to the Fiesta Bowl and Rich Rodriguez leaves for Michigan and WVU can't find a coach. Which is far more important in the eyes of Mountaineer fans than, say, the assassination of Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan.

Oh, what a year it was. Good things, bad things...a typical year. But that's all behind us now...the question is what is going to happen in 2008 -- and here are some burning questions:

• Who will be the next coach of West Virginia? Could the rumors about Nick Saban turn true? Will WVU hire Butch Jones and completely alienate the fans? And how much will ticket prices rise? PREDICTION: WVU settles for Jones and Ed Pastilong announces his retirement in 2009. And Rodriguez pays $3 million of the $4 million buyout.
• Where's the basketball team going? Can Huggins compete for a Big East title this year? PREDICTION: WVU finishes 7th in the Big East and ends up back in the NIT this year. But watch out next year...
• Can Beilein and Rodriguez win at Michigan? PREDICTION: Beilein continues to struggle until he is fired. Rodriguez has a good year but loses to Ohio State (9-3).
• Who is running for President? PREDICTION: Rudy Guiliani allows Romney and Huckabee take each other out and becomes the Republican candidate. The Hilary Attack Machine gears up and takes down Obama. Rudy is the new president...
• What's going to happen in Pakistan? PREDICTION: Uneasy peace for the entire year. Musharraf declares emergency states serveral times throughout the year to keep power.
• How will WVU football perform in 2008? PREDICTION: Eh, not a BCS Championship.

So, I'm sure there are far more pressing questions that I didn't answer but that's all I can think of at the moment. Watch out for tomorrow's Fiesta Bowl. WVU should be playing some inspired football and I don't believe it will be the blowout the Corso predicted. I hope there can be some reconciliation between the WVU Athletic Department and the MAC donors or it's going to be a long, cold couple years as WVU tries to stay competitive in football and basketball. Maybe it's just too much to ask...

Embarrassing?

Has the WVU head coaching search turned embarrassing yet? What about the lawsuit to collect $4 million from the former head coach? Does this embarrass the program or make the program look "serious"? I'm asking because I really don't know.

On one hand, I'm glad the University didn't just turn the head coaching job over to the first person who showed interest (Terry Bowden) or their first interview (Doc Holliday). Either of them could still get the job but I think it's good that others are getting interviewed. Unfortunately the longer the search goes on, the more likely we'll hear other names that will pull their name and some will see that as embarrassing (Jimbo Fisher, Nick Saban).

Personally, I think they should take all the time they need if that means landing a good coach. Of course, in the heat of recruiting time, that comes at a price. The biggest misconception I hear is that the university has to hire someone from the WVU family (Bowden, Trickett, Fisher, Jones, etc.). I think they need to find someone from outside (Locksley, Petersen, Foster) to breathe new life into the program and bring enthusiasm. The coaching seach is no embarrassing.

Is suing Rodriguez embarrassing to the university? It could be. If Rodriguez actually prevails and proves that WVU did not live up to their end of the contract, it could be devastating. WVU committed to having an elite program and if Rodriguez proves otherwise it could alienate the entire Mountaineer fanbase. However, I don't believe WVU will file the lawsuit if they didn't believe they could prove they have provided Rodriguez with everything that was guaranteed in his contract. If WVU wins, the lawsuit is not embarrassing.

There is one thing, however, that is embarrassing to the university and that is the recent comments by Ken Kendrick. His swipes at the Mountaineer Athletic Department undermines the integrity of the entire sports structure at WVU and is more problematic than any of the aforementioned issues. Kendrick's assertions will scare recruits and donors more than any head coach search or lawsuit. If Kendrick can provide evidence of his claims, he could irreparably damage the university for years and years to come. I believe that Kendrick's claims are just sour grapes from a donor who believes his money should yield him more power and I base that on recent comments by Mike Puskar. However, just the shear publicity Kendrick has attracted for his claims are definitely embarrassing to the university.

Anyway, I think WVU should have a coach by the time the National Championship Game is played and, whoever it is, WVU fans should support. I don't think anyone should be embarrassed by WVU trying to collect money that is rightfully owed to them or by taking time to interview potential head coaches. Hopefully they make the right choice and WVU will continue to be successful. I don't see this as the end of Mountaineer sports by any stretch...of course, I didn't think we'd lose to Pitt either. That was embarrassing.

And Chaos Ensues

The assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto could have ramifications that resonate throughout the world in the months that lie ahead. When all seemed to be calming down and good news was spreading, the suicidal maniac that took Bhutto's life could set off a series of events that threatens stabality from Pakistan to Iran to the United States.

The first of these is obvious: President Pervez Musharraf has major issues to deal with in Pakistan. With elections only a couple weeks away, the attack on Bhutto threatens to undermine any elections in the country. Nawaz Sharif, also a former prime minister and a political rival, has already announced his Muslim League party would boycott the elections and has called upon Musharraf to step down as president.

Unrest in Pakistan bodes poorly for regional stability. One of the key allies in the war against terror, political unrest could give remaining Taliban and Al-Qaida members in Pakistan the ability to organize and begin another major push in Afghanistan. Unrest in Pakistan also threatens the uneasy peace the country has with India. The border disputes between the two nuclear countries makes the United States/USSR "cold war" look downright quaint. A military confrontation between these two countries could be disasterous for the entire region.

The United States may be tested in Afghanistan if Taliban and Al-Qaida forces regain strength in Pakistan. Also, if the Pakistani government comes under heavy fire from Islamic extremists, the United States could come under heavy pressure to act in Pakistani borders to prevent a complete meltdown and collapse into an Islamic state.

Of course, that's looking at worst case scenarios. I'm cautiously hopeful that maybe some positive changes could come from the Bhutto tragedy. Perhaps the people of Pakistan will finally be fed up with the Islamic extremists they have been harboring in the country and will stand up and finally expel the opponents of freedom who have long ruled so many regions. Perhaps President Musharraf will use this as an opportunity to actually hold free and open elections in that country. Perhaps this will be the tragedy that ignites a people to standup against tyranny in all forms.

But that's probably just wishful thinking. Hopefully this doesn't mark the start of a very dangerous chapter in Pakistani history. I know that I, for one, will be watching the unfolding of events in Pakistan in 2008 with great interest because those events could dictate world policy for a generation.

For Those Who Wonder - Jimbo Fisher

On Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, everyone agreed that Doc Holliday would be brining his gun-slinging ways to Morgantown and take over where Rich Rodriguez once stood. Boy, what a difference a few days make. Beginning yesterday, all eyes turned to Jimbo Fisher from Florida State. And today, many are claiming that Jimbo will be the next coach at WVU. Personally, I give him as much chance of being the coach as Terry Bowden, Doc Holliday or Mike Locksley. All have been mentioned...but Jimbo is today's flavor of the week...or day. So, without further adieu, some information about another West Virginia native, Jimbo Fisher.

Born in Clarksburg, West Virginia, Fisher attended Liberty High School before going to Salem College in Salem, West Virginia where he played quarterback under head coach Terry Bowden from 1985-1986. When Bowden left for Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, Fisher transferred with him to play his final season for the Bulldogs where he was named Division III National Player of the Year.

In 1988, he played one season in the Arena Football League. He then rejoined Bowden at Samford as a graduate assistant coach working with quarterbacks from 1988-1990 and was subsequently hired as the fulltime offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. After two seasons, Fisher moved with Bowden to Auburn University where he coached quarterbacks alongside offensive coordinator Tommy Bowden. While at Auburn, Fisher coached several successful quarterbacks including Patrick Nix, the current offensive coordinator for Miami.

Fisher continued at Auburn until the hiring of current Auburn head coach Tommy Tuberville in the wake of Bowden's 1998 mid-season resignation. He then coached quarterbacks for one season at Cincinnati before joining Nick Saban's new staff at LSU in 2000. When Saban left for the NFL's Miami Dolphins Fisher remained at LSU to continue his role with Les Miles. He has guided several well-known quarterbacks in his tenure with the LSU Tigers including Josh Booty, Rohan Davey, Matt Mauck and JaMarcus Russell.

After the 2006 season, Fisher interviewed for the head coaching position at the University of Alabama at Birmingham but the Board of Trustees, which also governs the University of Alabama, vetoed the contract offer for Fisher causing some controversy. He subsequently signed a three year contract to become the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for Florida State University. He will receive a base salary of $215,000 with incentives increasing the total package into the low $400,000 range. In a press release on December 10, 2007 Jimbo Fisher was named the eventual successor for the legendary coach Bobby Bowden, although Bowden has not yet announced a retirement date. This new contract will pay Fisher about $600,000 per year with a $2.5 million buy out clause.

So, there you have it. You see Jimbo kinda fits into the Bowden / Rodriguez triangle for West Virginia by playing and coaching with Terry. Fisher brings a pretty impressive resume with him should he choose to come to WVU. The recent suspension of 36 Florida State players may play a part in Jimbo's decision considering his is supposed to be the next Florida State coach. After witnessing the Seminoles conduct issues, he may be giving that gig a second thought. Obviously, the $2.5 million dollar buyout is the biggest obstacle to bringing Fisher to WVU but if the University wants to make a splash with their new hire, stealing Florida State's Offensive Coordinator and next Head Coach is probably about as big as it gets.

For Those Who Wonder - Doc Holliday

John "Doc" Holliday was born August 14, 1851 and was an American dentist, gambler and gunfighter of the Old West. In September 1873, he went to Texas where he opened a dental office. He soon began gambling and realized this was a more profitable source of income. In Dallas, he was indicted, along with 12 others, for illegal gambling. He was arrested in Dallas in January 1875 after trading gunfire with a saloon-keeper, but no one was injured and he was found not guilty. He moved his offices to Denison, Texas, and after being found guilty of, and fined for, "gaming" in Dallas, he decided to leave the state.

By 1877, Holliday was in Fort Griffin, Texas, where Wyatt Earp remembered first meeting him. The two began to form an unlikely friendship; Earp more even-tempered and controlled, Holliday more hot-headed and impulsive. This friendship was cemented in 1878 in Dodge City, Kansas, where both Earp and Holliday had traveled to make money gambling with the cowboys who drove cattle from Texas. On the side, Holliday was still practicing dentistry from his rooms in Dodge City, as indicated in an 1878 Dodge newspaper advertisement (he promised money back for less than complete customer satisfaction), but this is the last known time he attempted practice.

After many years of gambling and riding the range with Wyatt Earp, Holliday began to settle down. By the 1970s, the Old West had died and Holliday went to college and graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education in 1979, then graduated with a Master's Degree in 1981 in Safety Management. Holliday was also a three-year letterwinner while playing linebacker at West Virginia.

In 1979, Holliday became a graduate assistant for the West Virginia Mountaineers football team. Then in 1981, he became a part-time assistant until 1982. Holliday became wide receivers coach in 1983 and remained at that position until 1989.

In 1990, Holliday became the inside linebackers coach. He remained coaching the linebackers until 1992. In 1993, he returned to coaching the receivers. In 1995, Holliday was promoted to assistant head coach, while still maintaining receivers.

During his tenure at West Virginia under head coach Don Nehlen, Holliday achieved a prestiguous record. He coached the top three career and single-season reception leaders in school history and eight of the top ten players in both categories. He also coached the leading receivers in the Big East in 1996, 1997, and 1998 while also coaching three of the top six receivers in Big East history. He coached third-team All-American receiver Reggie Rembert, three-time all-Big East receiver Rahsaan Vanterpool, all-Big East receiver David Saunders, all-Big East receiver Shawn Foreman, and all-Big East receiver Khori Ivy during his tenure and also was responsible for seven eventual NFL draftees.

Holliday was also the main recruiting coach in the Florida-area for West Virginia. Holliday was responsible for recruiting majors stars, such as linebacker Steve Grant, and became one of the best recruiters in the nation. He also helped the Mountaineers to 12 bowl games in his twenty years at West Virginia.

In 2000, Holliday left West Virginia for North Carolina State. There he became the assosciate head coach and wide receivers coach. He remained at NC State until 2004.

During his time in North Carolina, Holliday coached three of the top eight receivers in school history: Koren Robinson, Bryan Peterson and Jerricho Cotchery. In 2001, the squad set school records for completion percentage and fewest turnovers, while the 2002 team led the ACC in scoring. That squad also finished with school records of total yards, passing yards, most points scored, and most first downs in a season. The 2003 squad then set records in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards, passing yards per game, passing touchdowns, and pass completion percentage.

In 2005, Holliday traveled to the University of Florida and became the Gators' assosciate head coach, safeties coach, and recruiting coordinator. In 2005, Holliday was named one of Rivals.com's Top 25 Recruiters, while also tutoring a secondary that only allowed 52.3% of passing to be completed which was 16th best in the nation.

He guided safety Reggie Nelson to a consensus All-American honor and to become a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award and Bronko Nagurski Trophy in 2006. Also in that season, the Gators' pass defense efficiency was fourth-ranked nationally and second in the SEC while only surrending a nationally tenth-ranked 10 touchdowns all season and sixth in the nation in scoring defense.

Obviously Holliday's journey from gun-slinging gambler to one of the top recruiters in the nation is an inspiration in the Old West. But the fact remains that Holliday has never been a head coach in college football and many wonder if his old habits are behind him. If West Virginia goes in this direction, will we get the Holliday that can recruit like none other or will we get a dentist that has gone bad?

The Legacy of Rich Rodriguez

Until December 1, the legacy of Rich Rodriguez would be one of an innovater who led West Virginia to the biggest victory in school history in the 2005 Sugar Bowl and to the verge of a national championship. He would be known as the man who picked up where Don Nehlen left off and carried the Mountaineers to the promised land. By the time December 2nd rolled around, all that had changed and the legacy of Rich Rodriguez was forever altered.

A 13-9 loss to Pittsburgh forever changed the face of Mountaineer football and has tarnished the reputations of two of the greatest coaches the school had ever seen. A mere 2-weeks following that astonishing defeat, Rodriguez was sitting with Michigan representatives, hashing out a plan to vacate Morgantown. Perhaps Rodriguez realized he would never live down the loss to Pitt and the loss of a national title shot. Perhaps he realized he choked when all the cards were on the table and the opportunity would never present itself again at WVU. We will never know for sure, that is certain.

Just as Mountaineer fans were accepting the loss to Pittsburgh and beginning to look forward to a BCS bowl and another season, Rodriguez dropped the bomb that he would not return as coach of West Virginia University but would instead travel to the alleged greener pastures of Michigan. With that act of treason, Rodriguez cemented his legacy as a 13-9 loser to Pittsburgh with everything at stake. The Sugar Bowl victory and the Big East Championships will become distance memories but the sting of the defeat that cost West Virginia a shot at a national championship and the betrayal that followed will linger much longer. It's the bad memories that tend to remain more vivid over time, and Rodriguez provided a one-two punch to leave Mountaineer fans with.

When called upon to give comfort to the grieving fans of West Virginia football, the elder of West Virginia football and gold standard to which Rodriguez was compared chose to dump salt into the open wounds that were opened by the departure. Instead of assuring Mountaineer fans that all would be well in Morgantown, Don Nehlen took the opportunity to heap praise upon the tradition and majesty of the Wolverines. Instead of just remaining silent, the former coach portrayed Michigan as a Major League club, while West Virginia remains in the Minor Leagues, hoping to be called up someday.

When all is done, the damage done to the legacies of two Mountaineer coaches will be irreversible. At some point, Rodriguez and Nehlen will look at Mountaineer fans and only see contempt. If they wonder why, it's because Mountaineer fans look at Nehlen and Rodriguez and only see Maize and Blue. And those are two colors we never need to see again.

Alright Joe...

Let's see...who would be the first person you would talk to about what happened at WVU? Ed Pastilong? Mike Garrison? The million football analysts as ESPN, CBS, Fox and the likes? Nah, the first person to talk to is obviously Governor Joe Manchin.

Manchin took time for him "busy" schedule running the state to blast college football and Rich Rodriguez saying Rodriguez is a "victim of a college coaching system driven by high-priced agents that has turned those dreams into just another back-room business deal." Manchin went on to commend Ed Pastilong and Mike Garrison for their work and that he trusts them "and the WVU Board of Governors completely with the coaching search that now lies ahead.

As far as I'm concerned, Manchin should keep his opinions to himself. He's the governor of a state, not the overseer of college football for West Virginia. He forced himself in the West Virginia/Marshall conversations and forced West Virginia to play in a "Friends of Coal" Bowl. He's interjected himself in several situations that have nothing to do with the State of West Virginia just to keep himself in the public eye. If he's so concerned about the state of college football and the West Virginia coaching search, maybe he should appoint himself to the position since it appears RCB isn't going anywhere soon...

WVU Head Coaching Candidates

It's time to play "Who Wants to Coach West Virginia University!" Will the candidates please line up...no need to push, everyone will be given a chance to be rejected. Let's get started (Hireability Scale: 1-no chance / 10-give him the job).

1. Terry Bowden. The most thrown about name in the short 24-hours since Coach Rod betrayed the West Virginia faithful has to be Bowden. A West Virginia alumnus, Bowden has said he wants to get back in coaching and WVU is his "dream job". Bowden is a big name but he hasn't coached in 10-years and college football has changed a lot in a decade. Bowden left in the middle of the season at Auburn due to brewing scandals but his record speaks for itself for most. Hireability: 8


2. Butch Jones. Jones was receivers coach at WVU before heading to Central Michigan, where he has led the Chippewas to their 2nd consecutive Motor City Bowl. Would have a pretty good understanding of the current offense and might actually want to throw the ball around some. Little head coaching experience though and there's some thought that Rodriguez may want him back as an assistant at UM. Hireability: 6


3. Jimbo Fisher. A West Virginia native, Fisher's name was brought up a lot last year when WVU thought they might need a coach. Has a proven track record at LSU as an offensive juggernaut but struggled this year at Florida State. Might have been able to snag Fisher last year but now that he has been assured to follow Bobby Bowden at FSU, it's doubtful he would come back up north. Hireability: 5


4. Jerry Moore. Moore already coaches the Mountaineers...of Appalachian State. He has led the 'eers to 3 consecutive I-AA championships and has a spread offense that beat Michigan this year. A proven coach that probably deserves a shot at the big time. But the guy is 68-years old and it's doubtful we want a coach for 5 years before he retires. Hireability: 3


5. John "Doc" Holliday. Doc's name is another that comes up every time a replacement coach is talked about. Doc Holliday is one of the most prolific recruiters West Virginia has ever seen and has had great success as an assistant head coach and receivers coach at NC State and Florida. However Holliday has no head coaching experience and, from what I have heard, burnt a few bridges when he left WVU. A throwback to the Nehlen era, I'm not sure how Holliday would adjust to the current situation. Hireability: 6


6. Todd Graham. Former co-defensive coordinator under Rodriguez, Graham is currently at Tulsa where he led the Golden Hurricane's to a 9-4 record and a conference championship. Would be a great asset in strengthening West Virginia's defense. Hireability: 7

There's a lot more names...but I'm not sure what they're doing. Calvin McGee (current assistant head coach/offensive coordinatory - Hireability: 6) may follow Rodriguez to Michigan. Hopefully Jeff Casteel (Hireability: 2) does the same. Other names being thrown around include, but are not limited to: Steve Dunlap (Hireability: 3), Skip Holtz (Hireability: 7); Larry Coker (Hireability: 5); Kirk Ferentz (Hireability: 3); Bud Foster (Hireability: 7); Lee Corso (Hireability: -1); Lou Holtz (Hireability: -2); Nick Saban (Hireability: 4); Bobby Petrino (Hireability: 7); and, Don Nehlen and/or Jeff Hostetler (Hireability: Just Kill Me Now).

In other news: Terrell Pryor is likely going to Michigan. Josh Jenkins is probably going somewhere else. The Rodriguez/Jan. 3rd resignation story is gaining momentum; apparently there is some truth to it and he is trying to weasel out of the buyout. There's still a lot of questions about why he's leaving and apparently the press conference didn't really address those. I'm sure it will all come out eventually...Rodriguez will blame the university and the university will say Rodriguez was selfish. It's a good thing there isn't a game to prepare for or anything like that. What's that? Oh yeah...I forgot...

WANTED: New WVU Football Coach

Obviously West Virginia now needs a new football coach. So, I will discuss those candidates tomorrow or Tuesday. But first, a little of the speculation that is going on in Mountaineer land (you know, rumors, make believe and maybe a little level of truth) with a believability rating (1-low / 10-high).

1. Rodriguez threw the Pitt game knowing he would be offered the Michigan gig. If his team was playing January 7th for a national championship, he couldn't take the Wolverines job. Believability: 1 - There's no way he throws a shot at a national title.
2. He dated his letter of resignation for January 3, 2008, after the Fiesta Bowl. So either he coaches in the Fiesta Bowl as a hired employee or WVU has to fire him or forfeit the $4 million buyout. Believablity: 4 - I really don't know what the deal is with the contract. If this is true...well, I will lose a whole lot more respect for RR than I already have. Of course, most Mountaineer fans have no respect left...so it doesn't matter.
3. West Virginia will lose several players, including Noel Devine, Steve Slaton and 5-star recruit Josh Jenkins. Believability: 9 - Devine has been homesick and Rod has been the only thing keeping him at WVU. Expect him to transfer to a Florida school. Slaton is NFL bound (good or not) and Jenkins is going to look elsewhere. We'll lose some other recruits and players as well...but that's what happens when there is a regime change.
4. Don Nehlen encouraged Rich Rodriguez to look at the Michigan job. Believability: 2 - Sure, Nehlen was at Michigan before coming to WVU but I can't see him trying to chase off the current coach. Of course, Nehlen could be upset about the lack of respect for the 80s and 90s teams but do you really think Rodriguez looked for the Nehlen seal of approval? Highly doubtful.

There's more...there's rumors of a possible near physical altercation when he informed the players...which I doubt seriously. There's all kinds of coaching rumors out there...from the obvious (Terry Bowden, Jimbo Fisher, Steve Dunlap) to the interesting (Larry Coker, Skip Holtz, Butch Jones) to the completely out of touch (Lloyd Carr, Nick Saban, Bill Cowher) to the I seriously hope not (Doc Holliday, Lee Corso, Rick Trickett). I'll break down some of those guys when I get some more time. In the meanwhile, feel free to get out to some of those message boards out there and dump some gasoline on all the rumors...

Goodbye, Rich Rodriguez

And a 2-day saga ends with Rich Rodriguez packing his bags and heading to Ann Arbor to join John Beilein. On one hand, I'm glad that this dram unfolded quickly and ended abrumptly with Rodriguez's resignation. On the other hand, I'm disappointed with the outcome. To walk out on your team as they prepare to play Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl is nothing if not cowardly. Of course, Rodriguez will say that he had to make the decision now due to recruiting considerations and the distraction the constant rumors would cause his Mountaineer squad.

The reasons for Rodriguez's departure aren't clear yet. Rodriguez apologists will point the finger at Ed Pastilong. I've already heard that all Rodriguez wanted was some additional money for his assistant coaches and some improved facilities. Seems reasonable, right? Somehow I doubt that is all Rodriguez was looking for. Some have said the threats Pat McAfee received following the embarrassing loss to Pitt made Rich look at other possibilities. Do we really believe no Michigan player has ever been threatened?

The fact is that Rich Rodriguez couldn't keep his eyes on Morgantown and West Virginia University. He readily admitted that he looked at every coaching opportunity that was offered, and there's nothing wrong with that really. But when you tell Mountaineer fans that you want to be at WVU for the rest of your career and tell members of the media that they are stuck with you whether they want you or not, you tend to believe that he meant he was staying at WVU for the long haul. Perhaps Rodriguez meant to say he was staying at WVU for his entire Mountaineer coaching career. Who knows?

Regardless, Rich Rodriguez broke a contract that he has signed with West Virginia University and walks out on players, recruits and a large and loyal fanbase that supported him through good and bad times. A West Virginia native and WVU alumnus turns his back on his school and community to chase the "big-time" that he apparently never felt he could achieve with the Mountaineers. But, be warned Wolverines fans, should any other "national" program come calling, even the hated Buckeyes, watch him closely because he obviously has no issues in deserting his teams, no matter how loyal they may be to him.

Here We Go Again

Seems a bit like deja vu really...West Virginia is preparing for a bowl game, recruits are committing to colleges and Rich Rodriguez is being associated with another job. Sporting News reported and others quickly picked up that Rodriguez met with Michigan officials over in Toledo on Friday. Of course Rich Rodriguez won't comment on these rumors because he doesn't comment on these situations. Michigan officials will neither confirm nor deny.

Last year, when the Alabama came calling, I was on Rod watch 24-hours a day trying to find out what was going to happen. Didn't want to lose this coach. I wanted Pastilong to do whatever he had to do to keep Rich Rodriguez as the coach of West Virginia University. And Pastilong stepped up to the plate and offered Rodriguez more money and, I'm sure, several other concessions on facilities, etc., to keep Rod as coach.

This year, I don't know if I care. We lost John Beilein to Michigan only a few short months ago and that was a huge loss but we've obviously moved on. I don't think we can find the Bobby Huggins of football to hire but I'm not going to freak out about it this year. Maybe Rodriguez just wants attention. Maybe he really wants out of West Virginia. Maybe he thinks he deserves more money.

If it's money, I think WVU is paying him amply for the job he's doing. Granted, he's not making as much as the Alabama coach. He's making less per win than a lot of coaches in D-I. But he's also at West Virginia. As much as we want to believe otherwise, we're not on the same field as an Oklahoma or Ohio State or Michigan. We might be able to compete with a USC or Texas or Auburn on the playing field, but we can't compete with them at the bank. We don't have a stadium like Penn State's and we don't have the deep pockets of Alabama. That's the facts. If Rodriguez is attempting to use this latest development (which I've heard is not a formal offer yet) as ammo for more money, he probably needs to move on.

West Virginia fans have already seen ticket prices sky rocket over the past few years. What used to be a family outing has turned into an event that many can no longer afford. The argument is that is what you pay for a "national" program but eventually you will price seats out of the range of fans who are paying for all these improvements and salaries. Once again, we're talking about West Virginia and, if you haven't noticed, the economy here isn't exactly a juggernaut. I honestly don't believe Pastilong will offer Rodriguez more money this year...regardless of him staying or going. And I think that's the right move.

Don't get me wrong, I hope Rodriguez continues as WVU coach for many years to come (even if he loses to Pitt). I don't believe he's leaving, even if he is given a formal offer by Michigan. But, if he does go to Big Blue, send our best to John Beilein and tell him he would have been better staying here too...

Baseball on Steroids

Well, the Mitchell report comes out within the next half hour or so...and let me be the first to say: "Who cares?" Personally, I don't at this point. Knowing who did or who didn't take steroids in the past is not going to fix baseball's problems. The damage has been done...you can't go back and fix the records that have been broken. You can't take a World Series away from a team that was guilty. You can't quantify in anyway which teams and players gained an advantage and which teams or players were at a disadvantage.

The names that are going to come out, whoever they may be, were or are guilty of using a performance-enhancing substance. Can we determine whether they were habitual user gaining an unfair advantage on the field or whether they were just a user who used on occassion to recover from an injury? Does it matter? And whom does it matter to?

Personally, I thought George Mitchell would take his investigation a different way. I no longer care about those who used...naming users just satisfies a bloodlust that some have. I wanted George Mitchell to direct us to the enablers who allowed baseball to fall into such dispair. When did the Commissioner first understand there was an issue? Did the GM's, owners, coaches, etc. know what was happening in the locker room?

Secondly, I had hoped Mitchell would expose additional ways to clean up the game that the Commissioner's Office had overlooked? How can we reasonably test for HGH? How can we move on with a clean and fair game?

I obviously haven't seen the report but it appears Mitchell was more concerned about exposing the actual users than evaluating the system and helping actually fix the problem. Of course, what should we expect from a man who has ties deep in the baseball hierarchy and sits on the Red Sox Board of Directors? With all the conflicts Mitchell has, he should have recused himself from the investigation. Of course a truly independent investigation may turn up things baseball wouldn't approve of...and who would want that?

Petrino Bolts NFL for College

Bobby Petrino left Louisville to coach the Atlanta Falcons. Shortly after taking the job, Michael Vick was suspended indefinitely (and since prosecuted) for his role in a dog fighting ring and backup quarterback Matt Schaub was traded, leaving Petrino a non-existent offense. In addition to those issues, some players on the Falcons roster let it be known they were not exactly fond of Petrino.

Fast forward to Monday -- Michael Vick is sentenced to 23 months of jail and the Falcons play on Monday Night Football. Several Falcons players wear shirts or patches showing their continued support for Michael Vick, against league rules. And, of course, the Falcons lose.

And Tuesday, Petrino bolts for Arkansas. I'm in the minority when I say good for Petrino. I would have gotten out of there as fast as I could too. Obviously, this is a team that is going no where soon and the fact so many on that team still stand behind the convicted Michael Vick prove that this team is never going to be successful with the personnel they have in place. Most of the players have made it known they aren't going to buy into Petrino's system and have shown somewhat open hostility towards him. Their refusal to put Vick in the past shows that this team is stuck in neutral, refusing to move on with a new system and longing for the days when Michael Vick was their mediocre quarterback who occassionaly made spectacular plays.

Petrino probably should have never left Louisville. Maybe he really thought he would be successful in the NFL -- but I think he's better suited for the college game. He's an offensive inovator and I think he will be successful with the Razorbacks. The people who are busy criticizing this decision to leave Atlanta are ignoring the obvious -- he had nothing to stay for.