Richie Incognito is not a bully....He's a Grade-A Douchebag

At first when I heard about this story last week, I was thinking that this story of "bullying" in the NFL would be another ridiculous story to outrage the masses in regards to a crusade against "bullying".

Because of that, I will not call Richie Incognito a bully. He's a Grade-A douchebag who needed to be dealt with.

The fear now will be that the NFL will crack down on "hazing" and no one will longer be able to do the traditional and comical forms of hazing. (Like shaving heads and ridiculous outfits)

Johnathan Martin left the team citing emotional issues.

Do I think Incognito got what he deserved? Yes, but he also deserved a country boy ass whooping along with it.

Martin and Incognito's careers in the NFL I believe are over.

Incognito because of selfishness and destructive behavior cited in text messages with racial slurs and threats, along with the video posted by TMZ showing him loud and out of control in a Ft Lauderdale pool hall.

Martin because if he couldn't pop that guy in the mouth to deal with it, then he lacks the mental toughness to survive the NFL.

Because lineman have to be tough mentally and physically. Martin proved he is none of those to be able to lock horns with the Clay Matthew's, Ndaumakong Suh's, and Mario Williams's.

It's an unfortunate incident, Incognito got what he deserves, but Martin did more damage in my opinion to his stock and reputation to his peers.

Washington ThinSkin

I recently reflected on my upbringing when it comes to politics. Looking back at it as a whole, it's almost as if I was looking at two completely different people.

Some of my views fiscally are mostly conservative. I won't lie. I like money and the opportunity to pursue a better life and not settling for the status quo.

However, when it comes to social issues, I like to use the common sense meter compared to the liberal or conservative cue cards.

Lately, I've grown sick of politics. My sickness has no immunity to either party.

When I turn on MSNBC and a episode of Lock-Up or reruns of To Catch a Predator are not on, I want to vomit.

When I even turn it on Fox News, I want to punch the panel in the face.

I ask myself, why have I become so cynical that I'm not eager to hear both sides of the argument?

The answer is plain and simple.

The only thing you hear is rhettoric and bullshit and no focus on the real problem at hand.

Here's an example:

Bob Costas had a commentary in regards to the controversial Washington Redskins, who now after 80 years of existence, are deemed offensive.

The first thing I hear is that Bob Costas needs to keep the politics out of his sports commentary.

I disagree even though I think that his take had contradiction and is a little misguided.

There are three questions that I would like to ask:

1) If this was so offensive and not a problem, why was it not addressed in the 1960's after the historic Civil Rights Battle? Was it a problem then?

2) Exactly what percentage of the butt-hurt over this name is actually by those of Native American decent? I'd be shocked if it was above 20.

3) How many American people actually actually use the term Redskins other than describing the NFL Franchise?

For those who are so offended by this, Ask yourself that question and then ask yourself, "Am I making a difference or being a nuisance?".

What would be a better use of your time and make a better impact? Raising Money and Awareness for abused children so no other father would have to suffer the anguish that Adrian Peterson recently did? Or do you want to fight to change a name of a football where anyone with a functioning brain would not be all of the sudden racist because they talk about them?

This is why I have become sick of the political environment.

Don't get wrong, I think it is important to keep up with politics and know what is going on.

However, when you flip on the news, you should be hearing conversations about how our economy should be fixed, what's the best compromise for that goal and how we can come up with solutions rather than fighting over agendas.

Instead, we're hearing about a talk show host who should be fried for using the term "slut", (which isn't the worst thing mentioned talk show host has ever said), and how an NFL team needs to change it's name and that we're too dumb to see how offensive it is.

Is it because we're too dumb or maybe we don't use that term in any other way but describe the football team.

If the Redskins change their name, when does it end? Will it come to a point to where we can't have nicknames at all because some idiot with artificial outrage will get his way?

Sports is our escape from the political rhetoric that gets crammed down our throats from both sides of the aisle.

What really should be offensive about this conversation is the lack of common sense when it comes to handling it.

Dear Ole Miss fans, you're being ridiculous! Please Stop!

Dear Ole Miss fans,

I am writing to you because you seem to have this idea in your head that had not one Tyler Siskey (former Ole Miss assistant now Alabama off the field assistant) been giving the inside skinny on Hugh Freeze's diabolical plan to upset #1 Alabama, your Saturday night would have been more jubilant beyond your wildest dreams.

Did it make a difference? You bet, but if Hugh Freeze had a former Alabama defensive assistant on his staff that maybe he would like the inside skinny on Ha-Ha Clinton Dix's man to man coverage tendancies? You bet he would and you would be defending Freezus until you're blue in the face.

Tyler Siskey gets a paycheck from the University of Alabama, no longer from the University of Mississippi. He was doing his job.

Also, wouldn't you think it was the fault of the Ole Miss staff, knowing Siskey would give them the inside skinny, to mix some calls and keep the former Rebel assistant guessing? You'd think they would but it's obvious they didn't.

Ole Miss has a young team and had a growing up moment on Saturday Night. Bo Wallace ate a slice of humble pie after basically stirring up an Alabama defense that, let's just say, doesn't need any extra motivation.

The defense played great and this program has a bright future at the moment.

Hugh Freeze layed it all on the line, putting his trust in his offense. They failed Freeze and he won't let them forget it.

Ole Miss has some growing up to do and I think a humbling loss like this will cause them to grow up.

As for the Tyler Siskey microscope, the Ole Miss fans who are playing this card, need to grow up as well and learn reality.

Sincerely,
Jason Marks

All of the speculation regarding Mack Brown will make Nick Saban a richer man

It's only week 3 of the college football season and Mack Brown has already been labeled a sacrifice to the Texas Wicker Man in hopes of a good harvest and a brighter future.

With the 44-23 loss to Ole Miss (a game exclusive to the Longhorn Network ironically), It looks as if ESPN has already marched Mack Brown out the door.

In respect, he did make North Carolina football competitive and then led Texas to a National Championship.

However, with the latest surge of success in College Station and two horrendous losses to BYU and Ole Miss, it seems the time has come.

When fans are booing a Mack Brown PSA on a videoboard encouraging donations for children's charities, you've worn out your welcome despite the ignorance and lack of respect.

Of course, the wish lists start breaking out and of course Nick Saban's name is mention.

If there was a program that Nick Saban would leave Tuscaloosa for, it would be Texas. The resources (including The Longhorn Network), are the closest match.

Having said that, Nick Saban is the kind of guy who wants the keys to the car and to be left alone. It's worked out well with Alabama obviously.

ESPN Austin reported that Texas was willing to fork out $8 Million to bring him to Texas.

Do I believe that Texas would and could make that offer to the best Head Coach in College Football? You bet.

Do I think Alabama would counter that offer to keep the coach that brought a program with passionate and rabid fanbase back to the days that you could say exceeded the era of Paul "Bear" Bryant? They would be foolish not to.

It took nearly 25 years and one national championship to heal the wounds of the post-Bear Bryant Era. Do you think they want to go through that again? Of course not.

As for all of this Nick Saban to Texas talk, I will believe it when I see it.

If Texas does make an offer, Nick Saban has already won. He will be a richer man no matter what happens in the end....most likely as the highest paid coach in college football history.

The Key to Stopping Johnny Manziel Was Staring Us In The Face This Entire Time

When Nick Saban went to shake the hand of Kevin Sumlin, he told him that he took 10 years away from his life. He's not alone.

All of this time staying up late, excessive study of film, to try and crack the code that is Johnny Football.

We all learned in Alabama's 49-42 victory over Texas A&M, that you can't stop him with defensive schemes. Although two miscalculations by Johnny Football did decide the game in retrospect, I don't think Hugh Freeze, Gus Malzahn, Les Miles, Dan Mullen, or Bret Bilemma would want to take that chance if they glance at the film from this game.

It's still hard to believe that Alabama, a school that prides itself when it comes to defense surrendered 42 points and 628 yards in one game.

What does that tell you. Your chances of defeating Texas A&M and Johnny Football increase when he isn't touching the football.

With the way Texas A&M's defensive line began to crumble, the longer Manziel doesn't have the football the better.

I thought Alabama did a reasonable job in the 2nd half bleeding the clock. Despite the TJ Yeldon fumble.

Nick Saban may have not cracked the code when it comes to Johnny Manziel, who was responsible for 568 of those 628 yards. However, he may have unlocked the strategy for future Aggie opponents.

Balanced run, Time of Possession, and leave as little time for Manziel so when he makes a mistake, it's much more crippling.

This whole time, along with Nick Saban, fans debated how they could stop Johnny Manziel from a repeat of that 2012 day in Tuscaloosa, but the key to defeating Texas A&M was so obvious this entire time.

Yahoo! Sports Story, and why I think little, if not nothing will actually happen

As I've stated many times since it seems we're hit with a new scandal every other week in college football, there probably isn't innocence, but no proof of guilt.

The Yahoo Sports! story to it's credit at least showed more burden of proof compared to most (excluding Ohio St tattoo story) expose's that have been published. The SI report on Oklahoma State looks to be falling apart at the seams. As I've said before and I think we can all agree, if you're going to go after something, bring some evidence to back it up.

As much as you may want to see the Tide Dynasty crumble at your feet or play the Bama conspiracy card, you can't deny that this is a serious allegation and it has documentation to back it. Also, Tennessee and Mississippi State also have a seat on this roller coaster.

You may think this is an open and shut case at this point, right? Wrong.

Dan Wetzel points out "The NCAA won't be able to get enough people to talk. They won't be able to access the paper trail. It's possible they won't even muster much of an effort. There isn't a direct tie to the coaching staffs. The schools involved, Alabama, Mississippi State and Tennessee, will solemnly declare their concern, even though the latter two are already on probation for previous things that produced solemn concern. Maybe Volunteers defensive lineman Maurice Couch, the only still-eligible participant, gets hit a little, but that'll be it."

His prediction is that little, if not nothing will come of this due to an uphill climb the NCAA has in regards of getting people to talk and actually acquiring the authentic documentation.

I have to say I agree with him.

To say that this is a smear campaign and declaring innocence would be foolish. The documentation sited by Yahoo Sports! is worth the attention, but it's not the key.

Jon Solomon from AL.com posted this article regarding the legal angle when it comes to Sports Agents laws in Alabama.

"Sports agents in Alabama are required to be licensed by the Alabama Athlete Agents Commission. It's a Class C felony for any agent who has intentionally not registered in the state of Alabama, punishable by one to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.
Initiating contact with a college athlete without being registered is a class A misdemeanor, punishable up to one year in prison and a fine up to $2,000. Current or former college athletes cannot accept anything from an agent without entering into a contract that conforms with state law."

He also quoted State Representative Jack Williams, who is also the co-chair of the Alabama Athlete Agents Commission:

"If illegal benefits were passed along by an agent, we're going to ask the attorney general's office to prosecute," Williams said. "You have to draw a line. When you start potentially affecting a student-athlete's eligibility or affecting a university's athletic department, it's a pretty serious thing."

Now, there have only a few prosecutions in regards to this law, one being a Virginia agent who had a runner contact Tyrone Protho after his horrifying injury in 2005 without registering in the state.

Litigation was also the gateway for the NCAA to look further into Reggie Bush. I think this may be the same for this situation.

At this point, it's up to the Alabama Attorney General if he wants to pursue this, and he could.

But will he is the ultimate question and it's not an easy answer.

As tin foil as it sounds, politics may be the ultimate thing that may keep this from going anywhere, at least for Alabama.

Does an Attorney General Luther Strange, who is elected by the people of Alabama, put his seat as the AG in peril to pursue a case (where state laws may have been broken), that involves the prestigious football program in the state?

I would like to think that the majority of the Alabama electorate is intelligent and well balanced. However, a few votes can determine wins or losses of and there are a few people that would vote based on their allegiance of Tuscaloosa or The Plains.

Don't believe me? Let's go back to the Solomon article:

"Does the state always prosecute after public allegations?
No. The reason sports agent laws were created throughout the country is to protect the university's interests. This was apparent when Alabama football player Andre Smith was suspended for the 2009 Sugar Bowl for his involvement with an agent, but the case was not prosecuted.
The University of Alabama submitted a report to the attorney general's office regarding the Smith case. Troy King, Alabama's attorney general at the time, later concluded there was no "probable cause" to believe anyone violated the state agent laws.
But a different tune was taken in 2010 by Saban during his rant comparing agents to pimps. "You know, we probably could have prosecuted the guy," Saban said, referring to an agent involved in the Smith case. "But in prosecuting the guy that did wrong, we would have put our institution in jeopardy -- possibly -- from an NCAA standpoint. We didn't do it. But then the same guy is standing in line trying to give our players money this past year and nothing gets done about it. It's not a good situation."
The state didn't prosecute anyone after Alabama defensive end Marcell Dareus served a two-game NCAA suspension in 2010 for accepting nearly $2,000 in extra benefits from an agent on two trips to Miami. Then-Assistant Attorney General Don Valeska, who no longer works at the office, said in 2011 that he had no evidence showing what agent was involved with Dareus."

Andre Smith and Marcell Dareus we're suspended after allegations of agent contact came to light. Smith would go on to the NFL Draft and Dareus played 2 games later.

This is not an accusation, only an observation. I state this only to say that the NCAA will look into this, but does the Alabama Attorney General hold the key that opens the door to a much deeper investigation? I think he does, but he will keep that key to himself? It seems like too much of a gamble, and if you follow Alabama politics and Victoryland, Luther Strange is not a fan of gambling. I will be shocked if any of this snowballs, at least on the Alabama side.

Stop Preparing Your Eulogy and Put Down The Pitchforks

When LeBron James said his famous "Not One.....Not two, Not Three, Not Four, Not Five....etc etc.", maybe he was talking about the NCAA scandals we would have to endure. Through Cam Newton, Ohio State, Penn St, all the way to Johnny's signature story, we are now presented with one more. (If that wasn't enough already). Yahoo! Sports released a report last night that included Former Alabama OL DJ Fluker, along with Former Tennessee QB Tyler Bray, former Mississippi State DL Fletcher Cox, and others of taking improper benefits.

Of course, the most predictable happens. The fan bases of previously punished institutions are now demanding a pound of flesh while the ones in question are now in defense mode. (Except Tennessee who might welcome vacating the Derek Dooley Era).

The difference in this story compared to Cam Newton and Johnny Football is that Yahoo! actually presented a paper trial and documentation. That's much harder to defend compared to circumstantial and "He said, She said".

For all of the Alabama fans who want chastise the reporting (and definitely the ones who wanted to tar and feather Johnny Football over a cameraphone video with no proof of money exchanging), don't start writing your eulogy just yet.

For everyone else who is hoping that this tears down a dynasty years in the making, don't pop open the champagne and put down the pitchforks.

Why do I say this? Despite the documentation being available for all of us to see this online, it's going to be hard for the NCAA to prove.

If we know anything about the NCAA, fhey are very unpredictable.

Also, the NCAA has to prove that if someone in the Alabama staff knew that Luther Davis was giving money from his hustling of agents to DJ Fluker. The same of Tennessee and Mississippi St.

Don't forget that the NCAA has to get people to talk. As we know, it's easier said than done. Reputations and business venture can be tarnished by spilling guts to the NCAA. You also have to factor in laws against agents as well.

I think we can all agree that college football is not clean. We have become numb to these scandals and another surfaces on the brink of 2013's biggest college football game of the year.

My philosophy since Cam Newton is to never proclaim innocence, but if you're going to proclaim guilt, prove it with something other than circumstantial and he said she said. We've heard wolf cried so many times that it can make you cynical and numb to it all.

I at least give Yahoo! credit for presenting evidence that ties money exchanging hands.

However, it's in the hands of the NCAA. If you were to bet what might be the outcome in Vegas, you might be better off using that money for something else. Like I've said before, it's unpredictable. So stop writing your eulogy and put down the pitchforks.

Johnny Manziel and Texas A&M win, The NCAA Loses (Would have lost either way)

Sonny and Cher's "I Got You Babe" had woke us up as if it was the fall of 2010 over again. While some expected the a different outcome, we saw nearly the same result with a different player.

 Did I ever pronounce Cam Newton's innocence? No. Can I prove his guilt? Not with circumstantial evidence and many before who believed had the smoking gun wound up shooting themselves in the foot

I think we can all agree that college football is not the cleanest, most honorable entity in "amatuer" sports. However, as I've matured (try not to laugh) in this business, I've realized you can't will a story to have the outcome you want. Would Cam Newton and Auburn being hammered by the NCAA lead to a tragic trainwreck of comedy in my business? You bet. The same could be said for Texas A&M and Johnny Manziel. However, the result is the same between the two and the reaction is just about the same.

The NCAA is incompetent, the NCAA did not do enough, Mark Emmert sucks, etc. I won't lie that they haven't helped their case with Miami disaster (which should really be the most embarassing) and numerous other cases. However, do we now condemn someone based on circumstantial evidence? There's no innocent until proven guilty? Do we as a society thrive on the downfalls of people that we put so high on pedistal? I would say three are all plausible.

To break down the "suspension" of Johnny Manziel for the 1st half for Saturday's matchup against Rice. - Johnny Football knew that his autographs would be sold for profit. By the NCAA Bylaw Title:12.5.2.2 - Use of a Student-Athlete's Name or Picture Without Knowledge or Permission. If a student-athlete's name or picture appears on commercial items (e.g., T-shirts, sweatshirts, serving trays, playing cards, posters) or is used to promote a commercial product sold by an individual or agency without the student-athlete's knowledge or permission, the student-athlete (or the institution acting on behalf of the student-athlete) is required to take steps to stop such an activity in order to retain his or her eligibility for intercollegiate athletics. Such steps are not required in cases in which a student-athlete's photograph is sold by an individual or agency (e.g., private photographer, news agency) for private use. (Revised: 1/11/97, 5/12/05)

Okay, reports say there was an "inadvertent" violation regarding Johnny Manziel's autograph being sold for profit. Still, did Johnny Manziel profit from these autographs? And don't say nobody signs those autographs for free. Can you prove he took the money? No? Then what do you do?

Gregg Doyel from CBSSports.com states in his column about the NCAA's standard when it comes to enforcement and punishment.

"Manziel wasn't in a courtroom, and the NCAA didn't have to meet that legal standard of proof. Beyond a reasonable doubt? The NCAA didn't have to go that far. According to the NCAA's website, "its standard of proof is whether the information is credible, persuasive and of a nature that reasonable people would rely upon in the conduct of serious affairs.""

Later on he writes about how the NCAA is not sure about their "burden of proof".

"That was the burden of proof the NCAA was going for in this case: unassailable proof that Manziel had been paid for his time. And they didn't have it. Going forward, if the NCAA wants to change its burden of proof from "reasonable" to "unassailable," then the NCAA should do that in the future and own it now."

If we look back to the Cam Newton case, "reasonable" would be considered guilty based on a reason that because there's smoke there's fire. There was no "unassailable" proof that he took the money, therefore you couldn't do anything.

I don't share the outrage that Gregg Doyel seems to be showing (my observation), but I agree with him that there needs to be a clarification on what is standard for "burden of proof". I believe it should be unassailable. Evidence that can not be disputed and leaves little gray area for argument. Easier said than done? Yes. However, if you can't prove them guilty or don't want to, why should the player and/or institution suffer due to circumstantial evidence?

What about Ohio State? Did they really get did wrong by the NCAA? Not really. Evidence was found that Jim Tressell attempted to cover up the tattoo scandal. A burden of proof that can not be disputed.

As for the suspension (for a half), I think is quite comical. Manziel also, according to the NCAA statement regarding the matter:

Will address the team regarding the situation and lessons learned

Texas A&M will revise its future education concerning student-athlete autographs for individuals with multiple items

Not really that harsh of a punishment, and we've seen sanctions that we can laugh at before (i.e., Oregon, Mississippi St)

With all of the outrage with the punishment (or lack there of) of Johnny Manziel, where's the outrage regarding these brokers? The brokers who came to ESPN and made the allegations that Johnny Manziel took money for signing autographs? With the lack of subpoena power by the NCAA, I'm sure they would have appreciated them coming forward to discuss the matter since said brokers left the NCAA no choice but to look into the matter (which is the last thing they wanted or needed) since it now got national news. Wait, the brokers didn't talk to the NCAA? Why not?

Could it be that if they talked to the NCAA that maybe they ruin any trust with future clientele? Then why would they come forward in the first place? Maybe for a money play?

"The broker reportedly showed two video clips taken on a cell phone during the autograph sessions, ostensibly for authentication purposes. On the videos, Manziel reportedly tells the broker "you never did a signing with me" and says he would claim to have been approached by multiple autograph seekers if asked about the nature of the memorabilia.
The videos, which ESPN declined to pay for after the broker made an offer, were taken without Manziel's knowledge. They do not show Manziel accepting payment for the sessions."

Jerry Hinnen - CBSSports.com - 8/6/2013

 

Hmmmm.....trying to get money for cell phone video without any proof of the allegations of taking money? Congrats, you proved he signed some footballs, what else do you have?

 



 

I'm sure the NCAA would have loved to see those videos, but I forgot, you're not going to talk to them.

All of this for money play? It seems that way for me. Johnny Manziel stays in the microscope, the NCAA unwillingly gets dragged into the circus that is Johnny Football, for what?

What have we learned? :

• Either fry them all or it's considered corruption
• The NCAA needs to clarify it's "burden of proof"
• If you're going to make an allegation, FOLLOW THROUGH!!!!

#SaveAJClemente He wasn't the first anchor to drop a swear word

As you may have seen and read already, the infamous viral video of NBC North Dakota anchor AJ Clemente's first on-air words have cost him his job.

 

 

For those who know me well enough, you have to be (as well as myself) impressed that I have never dropped an F-Bomb on the air in my near 6 year radio career. Although, I came very close once.

 

From what I gather, this kid was fresh out of college and obviously the nerves really got to him. Am I justifying his actions? No. However, given that this is not the first time this has happened in Local TV News history, maybe give him a nice talk, a slap on the wrist, and give him a chance at redemption.

 

In a society where everyone analyzes everyone else's flaws to distract from their own, I found it surprising the compassion and support this kid is getting. Whether it's genuine or for the sake of comedy is yet to be determined.

 

Firing him was probably a little too much. As I said before, this has happened to even the most seasoned anchors.....and I have video proof. WARNING: Contains Adult Language

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. Some anchors kept their job while others didn't. Now AJ Clemente will be haunted by his first day and who knows if he will bounce back. As a fellow member of the media, I hope he does.

Back To The Future: ALL IN....DOUBT.

Once again, the DeLorean has floored it to 85 MPH and we're back to where we were once again when the allegations of Cam Newton's pay-for-play scandal emerged.

Auburn did go on to win the BCS National Championship and I said that alone was the genesis of the scrutiny of their accomplishment. Auburn fans told me to GFY and said it was over, get over it. As usual, they misunderstood my words.

Had Auburn lost to Oregon on that night in Glendale, would there have been any scrutiny outside the state of Alabama in this regard? I don't think so.

Since then, Auburn has fallen to the basement of the SEC and is ushering in a new era with Gus Malzahn.

When it seems The Plains were looking to move on from the Gene Chizik era, a dark cloud still hovers over the quaint small town in Lee County because of the lack of closure.

Why do I say lack of closure?, you might ask. The NCAA has already cleared Auburn of any wrong doing in regards to Cam Newton. My answer is simple, The NCAA cleared Auburn, the same NCAA that has raised questions of their integrity and competence since Mark Emmert took the reigns as President. (Ex., Miami, Ohio St).

Once again, we're back to square one. Selena Roberts (former NYT and SI editor) has recently dropped another bomb on Auburn stating the championship of 2010 is tainted and other corruption in regards to their football program. (i.e, money, changing grades, etc) Players like Mike Blanc, and Neiko Thorpe have been quoted in this article by Roberts, and denied the allegations via social media.

Roberts, an Auburn grad, stands by her story as she should. In interviews I've heard and read about today, she has said she taped interviews with all the former players quoted, and in another interview, she says "most".

When asked if she would post the audio of these interviews, she felt there was no need to.

If I have to ask "Why?". If anyone questioned the integrity of my reporting and I knew had something on them, I'd nail them to the wall with the audio and post it for the world to see.

I'm not saying that Auburn is 100% innocent in all of this, to believe that about any program is very naive. However, if you're going to drop a bombshell on a program, GO ALL IN!!!! We've been down this road with Joe Schad, Scott Moore, and Danny Sheridan. Yet, they never followed through because they want to protect their sources or their integrity.

I've got news for you, the masses believe the media has no integrity, unless it's something that agrees with their beliefs or opinions.

In conclusion, it's time to do one or two things, NAIL THIS PROGRAM TO THE WALL ONCE AND FOR ALL OR PUT THIS THING TO BED ONCE AND FOR ALL. The NCAA failed (as usual) to find anything, and no one else has evidence of wrong doing, and if they do, they don't have the balls to present it.

DO IT ALREADY OR LET IT GO!



Marketing 101.....Destroyed

I'm not saying I'm mad at Tony Romo for signing a $108M contract with the Dallas Cowboys. However, I have to ask if he's really worth it. When defending me, I don't mind having my intelligence insulted. If your argument is that Jerry Jones was stuck between a rock and a hard place and had no other options in the draft or free agent market, okay then your insult would be more valid.

That wasn't Darrell's argument today, which was about as good as his very lame comebacks. Doug Gottlieb would have thought they were lame.

I was looking forward to a mindblowing explanation that would have really made me re-evaluate my IQ level. However, like Tony Romo, the snap was botched and he dropped the ball. In my profession I've been told never to "drop to someone's level". I've disagreed with that philosophy as I like to drop to their level and show them how it's really done.

"Marketing 101"

If I had to admit a mistake, it would have been that I explain to Darrell (because he was so intelligent he would understand) that the Dallas Cowboys sell themselves and the explanation of Tony Romo sells tickets would be invalid. Guess what Darrell, just like your insult jokebook, it failed you. Dallas Cowboys alone sell themselves and America watches them to succeed or fail, with or without Tony Romo. Tony Romo just happens to be a punching bag, not the main attraction. The DeathStar that Jerry Jones built is more of a marketing attraction than Tony Romo (also see Cowboys Classic, NCAA Elite 8, WWE WrestleMania, etc. for more examples to back my point). Jerry Jones paying a QB Joe Flacco money (still weird to say) for 10 years of mediocrity and one playoff win seems very unwise.

As for Allen Iverson, which shot 40 times and made on 15, which is higher than Darrell's insult success percentage, was actually more of a valid argument than Tony Romo, because he actually got the 76ers closer to an NBA Championship. So I would say he was worth the money for his success on the court, not just marketing.

BOOK 'EM DAN-O!!!

OTM Exclusive: Colonel Reb breaks his silence



Colonel Reb was banished from the Ole Miss Campus in 2010 to be succeeded by a more angry and cocaine influenced version of Barney Bear.

 

 

Since his exile from The Grove, Colonel Reb has lived a very secluded life at his plantation house in Adams County. Sipping fine bourbon, smoking cheap cigars, and trying to regroup after his image was tainted for nearly 70 years.

 

He has began to adapt into the 21st Century by opening a gmail account, purchasing a pre-paid cell phone, and dabbling a little bit into Facebook. OTM was able to reach Colonel Reb recently and we show great gratitude that he was able to grant us this interview:

 

JM: Colonel Reb, this is Jason Marks from On The Marks Sports. I want to say again, thank you again for taking the time to talk to us.

 

Colonel Reb: (In Mark Twain voice) THE PLEASUH IS ALLL MAHN YOUNG MAN! WHEN WILL THIS INTERVIEW BE POSTED IN THE PAPUH??/

 

JM: Actually sir, we are a blog site.

 

Colonel Reb: BLAWWG???? WHUT IN THE HAY-YELL IS THAT??? SOME NEW DISEASE LIKE DIS-UHN-TERRY????

 

JM: No sir, it's an internet term for a compilation of posts for a website.

 

Colonel Reb: IN-TUH-NET????

 

JM: Nevermind. So Colonel, it has been over 2 years since your dismissal from the Ole Miss campus. How did it feel when it happened?

 

Colonel Reb: WELL JOSEPH, I WAS VURY HURT! I HAD BEEN PAINTED WITH A BROAD BRUSH. JUST BECAWSE I WORE A GIANT HAT, HAD A LONG MOUSTACHE AND DRESSED LIKE MARK TWAIN.....THAT DAMN COLONUHL SANDUS IS A COPYCAT....THAT I WAS THE OWNER OF NEGROES AND HELD THEM IN LOW REGARD. THAT WAS JUST NOT THE CASE. LITTLE KNOWN TO MOST, MY DAUGHTER EVENTUALLY MARRIED A BLACK MAN IN WHICH I WAS IN SUPPORT OF, BUT THEY DON'T PRINT THAT IN PAPUHS. I WAS BANUSHED FOR NO REASON AND REPLACED WITH WHAT......A BLACK BEAR!

 

JM: What did you think of the decision to choose the Black Bear as your successor?

 

Colonel Reb: I LIKE THE CHOICE! BUT I FIG-YUHD THAT A JACK-ASS WAS MORE FITTING BECAWSE THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT THEY ACTED LIKE WHEN THEY DECIDED TO BANUSH ME.

 

JM: Sounds like there's still some bitterness towards the school you represented for so many years.

 

Colonel Reb: AHHH WOULDN'T CALL IT BITTERNESS JUSTIN, JUST HURT THAT'S ALL. I NEVER ONCE OWNED A SLAVE AND I NEVER TALKED DOWN TO A NEGRO. THE FACT THAT AH WAS PAINTED WITH A STEREOTYPE REALLY SADDENS ME. I LOVE OLE MISS AND ALWAYS WILL. I WISHED THEY LOVED ME ENOUGH TO TELL THE REAL STORY ABOUT ME.

 

JM: So what have you been doing since your days at Ole Miss?

 

Colonel Reb: I RECENTLY GOT THIS THING CALLED CABLE TV, IT'S SPECTACULAR AND HAVE BEEN FOLLOWING THIS MAHSHALL HENDUHSUN FELLA.......HE'S LIKE ME. HE'S POLARIZING, STEREOTYPED, AND MISUNDERSTOOD. I'VE ALSO MADE SOME SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS AT A FEW MOOSE LODGES AROUND THE STATE, AND I'VE ALSO DRAWN MORE INTO POLITICAL ACTIVISM.

 

JM: Political Activism? Elaborate.

 

Colonel Reb: WELLL JESSIE, I'VE BEEN ACTIVE IN THE ABORTION AND GAY RIGHTS ISSUES. AH WISH THAT SOME OF THESE PEOPLE WOULD LEAVE THOSE POOR WOMEN AND GAYS ALONE.

 

JM: You're Pro-Choice on both issues??? I have to say, I'm surprised.

 

Colonel Reb: SEEE JACOB, NOBAWDY CARES TO TRY AND GET THE KNOW THE REAL ME. I WAS ONCE AGAINST ABORTIONS, BUT LIVING IN MISSISSIPPI AS LONG AS I HAVE, I STARTED TO FEEL THE NEED THEY WERE NECESSARY, ESPECIALLY IN THAT CRAPHOLE TOWN CALLED STARKVILLE.

 

JM: I see, what made you turn around on gay marriage?

 

Colonel Reb: DID I HAVE MAH PREJUDICE BEFORE? YES, BUT THEN ONE NIGHT IN BATON ROUGE AFTER THE LSU GAME, I HAD BECOME FRIENDS WITH SOME LSU FANS AND THEY TOLD ME TO GO THIS ESTABLISHMENT CALLED GEORGE'S PLACE. I HAD FOUND IT ODD THAT THE BARTENDER SCOFFED WHEN I ASKED FOR A EVAN WILLIAMS MIXED WITH DR PEPPER WHILE A FLAMBOYANT COP ASKED ME IF HE COULD BUY ME AN APPLE MARTINI. I RESPECTFULLY DECLINED HIS ADVANCES WHEN I KNEW I WASN'T GOING TO BE ARRESTED FOR THE CUBAN CIGARS I HAD IN MY POCKET. FROM THAT NIGHT ON, I KNEW THESE PEOPLE HAD TO SETTLE DOWN AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO DO THAT THAN GET MARRIED. JUST ASK MY 3 EX-WIVES.

 

JM: Is there an alternate motive for this sudden change in heart?

 

Colonel Reb: YES SIR. OUR ECONOMY IS IN THE TOILET AND THE VALUE OF MY STOCKS AND LAND ARE DROPPING. AH NEEDED ROMNEH ELECTED AND IT LOOKED GOOD FOR A WHILE. ROMNEH WAS SCHOOLING OBAWWWMA ON ECONOMIC ISSUES, BUT THEN THE OTHER DUMBASS REPUBLICANS HAD TO TAKE THE BAIT AND MAKE THEMSELVES STUPID ON THE ABORTION AND GAY ISSUE. I THANK THAT'S WHAT COST ROMNEH THE WHITE HOUSE!

 

JM: Colonel Reb, I thank you the time you have taken to talk to us and I hope we get to do it again.

 

Colonel Reb: JARED, IT WAS A GREAT PLEASHUH. IT FELT GOOD TO BREAK THE SILENCE AND CLEAR MY NAME FROM THE PAINFUL STEREOTYPES THAT HAVE BEEN A SHADOW TO ME ALL THESE YEARS. HAVE A GOOD DAY SON!

 

 

The NFL may be ready for an openly gay player, but are the fans?

If you've seen the headlines in the news, the Supreme Court is debating the issue of Gay Marriage.

As much as some of you like to separate politics from sports, it's time to just face the real world. Reports have surfaced this week that an active NFL player was considering coming out as a homosexual in the near future. This has sparked a debate on whether it would be a good idea or a bad idea to do so.

Per the CBS Sports Report by Mike Freeman, "Based on interviews over the past several weeks with current and former players, I'm told that a current gay NFL player is strongly considering coming out publicly within the next few months -- and after doing so, the player would attempt to continue his career."

Per your beliefs on the issue of homosexuality and gay marriage, we would all agree that this was eventually going to happen. It's already happened in the NBA. No I'm not talking about Rudy Gay, John Amaechi was the first NBA player who became openly gay.

You might say, well there's not a Major Leaguer who has come out and I'm not talking about the Mike Piazza jokes about his sexual orientation. Glenn Burke was an Outfielder for the Oakland A's and Los Angeles Dodgers during the 1970's. He was the first player to come out as openly gay in the majors. Former Major Leaguer Billy Bean would be the 2nd Major Leaguer to come out, but didn't do so until years after his playing career.

According to Burke's wiki page, his teammates had already known and didn't seem to care. There was more concern of the reaction from the rest of the league and fans.

The NHL could also be crossing this bridge. Rumors speculate it could be a player on the Chicago Blackhawks or Montreal Canadiens.

Which brings us to the NFL. The rumor mill, in the past, has grinded out the sexual orientation question of players like Eddie George and Kordell Stewart, though both have never been confirmed.

Mant'i Te'o's interest in men or women has been question because he mistakenly perceived Jake from State Farm as a beautiful Samoan woman and because he runs a slow 40.

Where has that reaction mostly come from? If you answered the fans, you are correct.

NFL Players have spoken out against gay marriage. Some focusing on the issue, or like the bozo in the Super Bowl who spoke against gay people, then magically grown fond of them in a 24 hour period.

Having said that, the NFL players may be ready for an openly gay player in their league, but are the fans?

I don't think so.

When this player comes out, the microscope and spotlight will shine brighter on him than Tim Tebow or Tom Brady.

When this player fails, he will be ridiculed. When he achieves on the field, he will still be ridiculed.

No matter if you're a Conservative or a Liberal, this day was going to come. If it has happened in 2 major sports, a 3rd sports has a player considering, it's only foolish to deny that one day the NFL will have to cross this bridge.

This is going to happen whether you like it or not. If not soon, it will eventually.

A Satirical Look at the Two Decade Old Georgia Water Crisis.....with SEC Flavor.

SEC Football has been known for it's fall tailgating, beautiful women, and let's say "fan interaction". But who knew that state disputes went beyond just the fall Saturdays on the gridiron. The state of Georgia has been trying to raid it's neighboring states for over two decades for the basic necessity of life.....water. Why? Because UGA is very very thirsty very very often.



The state of Georgia can't seem to meet their grueling demands. Here's some video tutorials on the failed Georgia attempts before.




As of now....waging war with Alabama and/or Florida would probably mean total annihilation of the entire state of Georgia. A Georgia invasion of Alabama and Florida's water supply could damage the ecosystem and habitat of:



 Big Al, who requires a large amount of water for his size. Mostly for hydration and bathing.

 

 



Aubie, who doesn't require as much water for necessity, but is pissed off Big Al is using large amounts and wants just as much.





Spirit, which a Georgia invasion would impact fish supply, and pissed off Big Al uses so much water





Albert (He's an Alligator who lives in water and just hates Georgia all together).

That could be an alliance too much for one thirsty Bulldog. So what remaining neighboring state would be the most vulnerable to quench UGA's thirst???? That's right, Tennessee. The Chattanooga Times reported today that the Georgia State Legislature voted 48-2 to move their border up one mile into Tennessee to tap into part of Nickajack Lake to meet their thirst for that sweet Tennessee River booty. However, this is nothing new to the residents of Tennessee and Georgia.

 

 



Smokey is not happy about this and Butch Jones probably didn't realize the magnitude of the Tennessee/Georgia game in his 1st season until today. Derek Dooley could not fight off the thirsty UGA and it eventually cost him his job. Lane Kiffin did keep UGA at bay from hydrating from the sweet nectar of Ole' Smokey's Water Bowl before going off to the Pacific to preserve Ducks, Bears, Wildcats, and Fighting Trees.

Ole' Smokey is now calling on Butch Jones to protect the pure treasure that Tennessee holds so dear away from the fat, wrinkly paws of the water hog that is UGA. Smokey has won this fight before, and he will fight until the bitter end to keep UGA from quenching his gigantic thirst. If he has to, he will call on some reinforcement.



National Signing Day: Surprises, Scrutiny, and the status quo

National Signing Day....it's considered the college football draft or a convention of pedophiles obsessing over teenage kids. Call it what you want, but it's not going away anytime soon.

Some follow it 365 days a year, but only one day matters. That was today.

- The highlight shouldn't be the SEC having a successful day group wise, but the SEC West alone on paper looks top to bottom the best division in college football.

- Alabama surprised no one, Nick Saban is still doing work in Tuscaloosa and it's not stopping anytime soon. The Crimson Tide gets another recruiting class ranked #1 in the country.

- Gus Malzahn has filled the gap in the pass rushing problem on the plains by picking up some of the top defensive linemen in the country. Auburn could finish with a Top 10 recruiting class.

- Bret Billema is awaiting the signature of Alex Collins after his mother pulled a classless and immature move by swiping his LOI, preventing him from signing with the Razorbacks. I'm sure there's some underlying issues that led to this, but all should be ironed out in the end. I questioned Billema's transition into a new recruiting environment in the SEC where (let's be honest) there's no gentlemen's agreement. He did very well with his first class in SEC territory.

- Ole Miss has obviously taken advantage of their momentum from the end of last season. Hugh Freeze sold a program that hasn't been remotely relevant since 2003 when a future Super Bowl QB named Eli graced Oxford, MS with his presence. Number One prospect Robert Nkemdiche joined his brother Denzel in Oxford with other 4 and 5 star prospects leading to a successful recruiting season and a Top 5 recruiting class. However, with success comes scrutiny. It's not just the message board goobs who talk a big talk anonymously, it's also members of the national media. How could Ole Miss coming off two consecutive bad season and a mediocre one all of the sudden pull in a recruiting class that would make John Vaught blush? The answer has been "They've got to be cheating". If you go to any message board in Alabama, which means you obviously have nothing better to do or you want to see a nice trainwreck that lacks intelligence, you will hear the back and forth of one fan base saying the other is cheating. Some not familiar with Alabama will ask, why is Alabama not being questioned? They obviously haven't seen a comment section on a AL.com sports story or listened to Paul Finebaum. DER CHEETUN PAWWWWL!!!!! (Examples: Cam Newton Bagman, Dre Kirkpatrick's ride, Julio Jones and Mark Ingram's fishing trip, Stanley McGlover getting paid by boosters for sacks, etc, etc, etc) And how many of those actually led to violations. Despite your theories, they were proven innocent. But since a school in the sticks of Mississippi is all of the sudden being able to sell their program and campus, they're obviously paying them. I wouldn't be surprised if Dan Mullen led a charge to point the NCAA in their direction. However, didn't one of his assistants resign for recruiting hiccups? Hugh Freeze is aware of the scrutiny and sent a message to them a few days ago. If Ole Miss is doing something dirty, what about Vanderbilt? James Franklin has to be doing something under the radar, or maybe it was the fact that Derek Dooley just sucked at recruiting.

If you have facts about a violation, send it to compliance@olemiss.edu. If not, please do not slander these young men or insult their family

— Hugh Freeze (@CoachHughFreeze) February 1, 2013

In other words, come at me bro!!! Even though having a top recruiting class in 2008 show major improvement for Alabama, a Top 5 class doesn't automatically mean SEC Championship. Especially the way the division looks top to bottom. However, the Rebels have made a major step in making the program more than just a BBVA Compass Bowl bid.

- Lane Kiffin really sucks at his job. UCLA, which was the whipping child for USC for over a decade, is now on the verge of getting a Top 10 recruiting class. Even with Kiffin's biggest threat, Chip Kelly going to the NFL, the Trojans got worked by UCLA Head Coach Jim Mora Jr and Steve Sarkasian of Washington. Despite Oregon's slip on NSD 2013, it's not as embarrassing as a traditional cornerstone such as USC getting worked by programs that sit in the purgatory of the Pac-12. Did Lane Kiffin pout and walk away from the podium at his Signing Day press conference when someone asked why he let so many talented prospects slip from his fingers to the other guys? It wouldn't surprise me if he did.

The OTM Radio PUT UP OR SHUT UP CHALLENGE

Ever wanted to live your dream as a sports radio host? Think you can do the job better than me? It's time to PUT UP OR SHUT UP. I've introduced the On The Marks Radio Put Up or Shut Up Challenge. I needed a way to say thank you to my listeners in Huntsville and I thought this was the best way possible. Also, to the people who think that I am so terrible, it's your chance to back up your words. However, I'm not just going to give this away. I'm going to make you earn it.

The 1st step is to send me an e-mail (at either jason.marks@cumulus.com or onthemarksradio@gmail.com) with a sports take that is about 2 paragraphs long. I don't want a novel, I don't want to hear about how it's dream or your destiny. I want you to prove it to me. You have until February 16th to send in your entry. I will contact you if your e-mail makes the cut.

If you happen to pass the next step you will get your chance to do an audition where you are most likely comfortable at first, and that's through the phone. You will call in at the time I set up  (so listen to my show or follow me on Facebook or twitter) and you get 3 min (uninterrupted) to talk as if it was your own show. Myself, Ryan, and a secret celebrity judge will give their praises and critiques and then vote you to either advance you to the next round or eliminate you.

The next challenge will be to cut a promo. If you are able to advance to the next round, we will set up a time for you to come by the studio and cut your own promo/commentary (like the overtimes that use to air on the UMP). These will play during the week (Opening Drive, Midday, and Roundtable). I will then set up a poll to vote for the best commentary. Votes can also be place on The UMP's Facebook page. At this rate, we will narrow it down to the best 4 contestants.

When the Final Four is decided, the contestants will get an entire segment to their own in studio (they have the option to do a monologue, bring in a guest, and/or take phone calls. The segment will last 10 minutes for each contestant. They must do an verbal intro and outro into a commercial break. The order will be determined via drawing. I basically get an hour off to just watch.

The Final winner will be decided by vote of the listeners. The winner will win a chance to be my co-host for an entire 2 hour show.

It sounds like a lot of work, but you get the ultimate radio experience the further you advance. Get your entries in and good luck.

*Must be from the Tennessee Valley Area
*Must be 18 years of age
*Do not use profane language, leave that to me
*Have Fun with this. That's what it's for.