Patrick Peterson denies connection to Willie Lyles

Former Texas A&M assistant Van Malone accused Will Lyles, owner of the Houston-based scouting company Complete Scouting Services, of requesting $80,000 in exchange for Patrick Peterson signing with the Aggies in 2007. Given the issues surrounding his “scouting service”, being connected to Lyles these days is not exactly optimal for one’s reputation as schools such as Oregon and LSU have learned. Peterson’s father Patrick Sr. claimed to know nothing of the request Lyles made of Malone, calling the revelation “shocking” while comparing Lyles and his recruiting ilk to escort services. This afternoon, Junior issued his own denial. Peterson, a Florida native who was originally a Miami Hurricanes commitment before signing with LSU, fired off a statement through his former school vehemently denying any involvement on the part of Lyles in his recruitment.

“I have never had any type of relationship with Willie Lyles and he had no influence on my decision to attend LSU, or any other school for that matter,” Peterson said on the statement. “He had no involvement with my recruiting process and I resent the fact that my name has come up in these allegations. I chose LSU because it’s a great school with a great football program. I never received nor was I offered anything to go to LSU and anyone saying otherwise is being dishonest.”

We certainly have no reason to doubt Peterson at this point in time, but what would Malone possibly have to gain by having his name plastered on an on-the-record story like this one that turns out to be nothing more than a lie? Or, if Malone is indeed speaking the truth — and the Petersons are as well — would Lyles really have a set of brass ones big enough to go behind the back of a recruit and his family in an attempted $80k money grab? And, if its neither of those two scenarios, how the hell big is the gray area in this situation?

Of all the accusations and allegations that have come out against various programs over the past several months, this may be one the most head-scratching, if for nothing more than the utter randomness, seemingly out-of-the-blue nature of it all. Hopefully, the NCAA will get to the bottom of the situation — especially as it pertains to Lyles and other street agents masquerading as “scouting services” — and make some sense of yet another tangled and murky situation.

Rebels get nice surprise: Lockett granted a sixth season

In a tremendous turn of event for Ole Miss and its defense, the school announced Thursday evening that the defensive lineman has indeed been granted a medical waiver and will be eligible to play for the Rebels in 2011. “I finally can go to sleep now, man,” Lockett said following Ole Miss’ practice today. “It’s been since September, you know, didn’t know what was going to happen. Just the uncertainty of it all was killing me, man. I cried many a night. I’ve been crying all day, I’m happy.” “That’s good news,” head coach Houston Nutt said. “Really good news to get that year back. I know that’s been a real burden on his mind and on our mind and now there’s no question what he’s going to be doing much harder and better.” Lockett suffered a season-ending ACL tear in the fourth game of the 2010 season, leading the senior to apply for a medical waiver with the NCAA. He also missed the season opener due to a heart condition. He’s still rehabbing the knee injury and will be unable to participate in spring practice. In 2008 and 2009, Lockett started all 26 games for the Rebels, earning All-SEC honors from various media organizations. He played in six games in 2007, and used a redshirt his true freshman season of 2006.

Post-scandal Fiesta Bowl must justify place in BCS

The head of the BCS put the Fiesta Bowl on notice Wednesday: “Follow the letter of the law” or lose its place in college football’s lucrative championship system. BCS officials challenged the Fiesta Bowl to persuade them that extravagant and improper spending behind the firing of longtime CEO and President John Junker will never happen again. Otherwise, the BCS said it can kick out the Fiesta Bowl altogether. There are plenty of others eager to jump in. “They know that if they want to do business with us, they need to follow the letter of the law,” BCS executive director Bill Hancock told The Associated Press. “If they fail to do so, they do it at their own peril.” The Fiesta Bowl released an internal report on Tuesday that uncovered hundreds of thousands, perhaps even millions of dollars, in “excessive compensation, nonbusiness and inappropriate expenditures and inappropriate gifts.” Arizona prosecutors are looking into possible criminal charges, focusing on accusations that top officials pressured employees into donating money to favored political candidates and then reimbursed them with bowl funds. Fiesta Bowl officials placed the blame squarely on Junker, who made $600,000 a year as the affable face of the organization. Over the past two decades, he led the upstart bowl from just another postseason game to one of the largest and most prestigious. “I must say that the actions undertaken and orchestrated by John Junker and others are shocking and completely unacceptable,” said Duane Woods, the Fiesta Bowl chairman. “Their actions, unfortunately, have tainted the stellar reputation that the Fiesta Bowl has worked so hard to maintain for more than 40 years.” The Bowl Championship Series also includes the Rose, Orange and Sugar bowls, and draws tens of millions of dollars a year in television revenue, ticket sales and merchandise. Frito-Lay, whose product “Tostitos” is the Fiesta Bowl’s title sponsor, said it was “disappointed” and was monitoring the situation.

SEC, Auburn release statement on HBO report

“We are aware of some of the information to be aired during this evening’s HBO Real Sports,” the statement from the conference read. “Representatives from Auburn University, representatives from LSU and the SEC office have communicated with the NCAA Enforcement Staff. The involved institutions and the NCAA staff will pursue the allegations in a timely manner.”

So, apparently and as expected, the end of the program tonight likely won’t be the last time we hear of this issue.

Several members of the media obtained an advanced copy of the hour-long program ahead of its airing Wednesday night, and published at least partial transcripts of what on the surface appears to be rather explosive and damning allegations.

The four ex-Auburn players — Stanley McClover, Troy Reddick, Chaz Ramsey and Raven Gray — will all claim to one degree or another that they received “financial assistance” from alumni/boosters of the AU football program during their recruitment and, in a couple of the players’ cases, after they had signed with the Tigers. At least one of the players also alleges that he received cash on recruiting trips to LSU and Michigan State, and received cash and “sexual favors” on a trip to Ohio State.

Auburn’s Pelton inherits Fairley big task

Mike Pelton seems awfully happy for a guy replacing two Lombardi Award winners.

Auburn’s new defensive line coach is charged with plugging holes on the front four at his alma mater, filling the shoes of predecessor Tracy Rocker and replacing Nick Fairley.

Both Lombardi winners are gone to the NFL, either as a coach or an expected first-round pick.

Pelton, an All-Southeastern Conference lineman at Auburn in 1994, inherited scant experience on the line and no proven players in the middle after Rocker left to coach with the Tennessee Titans. But he said he’s “tickled to death” to be back.

“He’s got young guys that have got a lot of want-to,” coach Gene Chizik said Monday. “He’s got a great group of kids that really, really work hard. Are we replacing a lot of talent that will be gone on the defensive line? Yes. That doesn’t mean we don’t have talent there now. It’s an experience problem there more than anything.

“But (tackles) Jeff Whitaker and Kenneth Carter, those guys have got to step it up. There’s no more, ‘I’m a true freshman.’ They’ve got to understand right now what it’s like down there and they’ve got to produce.”

The line was the most dominant part of the defense during Auburn’s national championship run, largely because of Fairley. Fellow starters Zach Clayton and Antonio Carter are also gone.

Fiesta Bowl CEO fired after internal probe

The Fiesta Bowl fired president and CEO John Junker after a scathing internal report released Tuesday found “an apparent scheme” to reimburse employees for political contributions and “an apparent conspiracy” to cover it up.

The reimbursements, listed as at least $46,539, appear to violate state and federal campaign finance laws. The Arizona attorney general’s office is conducting a probe of the matter.

The BCS reacted swiftly, saying it would undertake an investigation of its own to “consider whether the Fiesta Bowl should remain a BCS bowl game or other appropriate sanctions.”

The Fiesta board of directors voted unanimously to fire Junker “for his improper and inappropriate activities documented” in the report.

Junker, in his ubiquitous bright yellow Fiesta Bowl sports jacket, had been the face of the event for three decades, leading it from an upstart event to one of the BCS giants. With an annual salary of about $600,000, he had been on paid administrative lead since Feb. 4 after, the board said, he failed to comply with two written directives to cooperate with the investigation.

The board said the probe also uncovered “excessive compensation, nonbusiness and inappropriate expenditures and inappropriate gifts.”

Australian lineman making impression at Alabama

Jesse Williams is hoping to be the next Terrence Cody: a supersized junior college transfer who makes a big impact on Alabama’s defensive line.

Williams has more tattoos, a little less girth and an accent from Down Under not Down South. But Crimson Tide fans would be ecstatic if the Australian out of Arizona Western Community College works out nearly as well as his JUCO-to-Bama predecessor on the defensive line.

The 6-foot-4, 325-pounder from Brisbane has been hearing Cody’s name frequently since enrolling at Alabama in January as one of the nation’s top-rated JUCO prospects.

“I’ve heard it actually quite a lot,” said Williams, who is going through spring practice. “He did really well playing nose tackle here, and I’m looking forward to doing the same type of thing.”

Ex-Buckeye Duron Carter might be headed to ‘Bama

By way of the Birmingham News, TideInsider.com is reporting that Alabama “is on the inside track to sign Carter.” Carter’s father told the website that a big reason for the Tide garnering such serious consideration is the head coach of the football program.

And the fact that the Tide is looking to replace the production lost by Julio Jones‘ departure for the NFL doesn’t hurt either.

“The head coach is as good as it gets,” Cris Carter said. “They have structure. Nick Saban provides the kind of environment you look for. There is no better teacher in the game than Nick and his staff. We like the fact that they run a pro-style offense. They have a need at the receiver position. They don’t have a [big, physical] receiver like Duron right now.”

Scout.com had previously reported that the 6-5, 210-pounder would visit Tuscaloosa next weekend.

Carter has already visited Miami and LSU, TideInsider.com reported. Regardless of where Carter lands, he will be eligible to play in 2011.

During his only season at Ohio State in 2009, Carter had 13 receptions for 176 yards and a touchdown as a true freshman.

Gamecock lineman out for spring after surgery behind eye

South Carolina offensive lineman Ronald Patrick is expected to miss all of spring practice as he recovers from surgery to remove an abscess behind his right eye — which was also at the base of his brain.

Patrick is slated to be in the hospital through the mid-week, and coach Steve Spurrier expects a full recovery.

“From what we think, the surgeons did an excellent job,” Spurrier said. “His headaches are not there. He’s got some recovery time ahead of him, but we’re hoping and praying it was a very successful operation and he will not need any more surgeries.”

Patrick, a soon-to-be sophomore, saw some time as a backup center last season and has been moved to guard for 2011. Spurrier said that he expected to be back within one to two months.

Vandy corner decides to finish career elsewhere

Graham told The Tennessean that he has decided to transfer from the Commodores and use his final season of eligibility at another institution of higher learning. He already has a pair of schools he’s focusing on, where he will both play football and attend grad school.

“I’m going to try to get into grad school somewhere else,” Graham said. “I’ve talked to UAB and they want me to play wide receiver. If I want to play cornerback, I can go to Southern. Southern said if the NFL thing doesn’t work out, I can come back and be a GA (graduate assistant). I’ve got to decide in the next two or three weeks where I want to go.

“I’m just trying to do what works for me. (UAB and Southern) told me I just need to apply (for graduate school), take the test and they will handle the rest. They said it looks good for them to have someone coming in from Vanderbilt.”

Graham added that as recently as a month ago he was leaning toward staying at Vanderbilt, but intimated that a university official pressured him into making a decision sooner rather than later. He said part of the uncertainty in whether to stay or go involved getting admitted into a Vandy grad program.

Tide d-lineman hit with indefinite suspension

Head coach Nick Saban announced Saturday evening that the defensive end Brandon Moore has been indefinitely suspended from the football program. The reason, of course, is the ominous “violations of unspecified team rules”. Based on Saban’s words, it doesn’t appear that Moore will be returning at any point in the near future. “That’s indefinite,” the coach said. “We don’t know what’s happening there.” Last season, Moore played in four games. The redshirt sophomore was expected to challenge for significant playing time for the Tide in 2011.

Moore, incidentally, becomes the second Tide player indefinitely suspended this spring; defensive back Robby Green was suspended this past Monday.

‘Huskers to reportedly add ex-Bama back

By way of the Lincoln Journal Star, NBC’s Toledo affiliate WNWO-TV is reporting that the well-traveled running back is transferring to Nebraska.

The station’s source on this one is impeccable as Marrow’s father Vince Marrow confirmed the news. The elder Marrow also happens to be a member of the Cornhuskers’ coaching staff, hired recently by head coach Bo Pelini as a grad assistant.

Marrow was a three-star member of Alabama’s 2009 recruiting class, but Nick Saban, who coached Marrow’s father at Toledo, confirmed in September of 2010 that the Toledo, Ohio, native was transferring due to “personal issues, family issues“.

After leaving the Tide, Marrow ended up at Eastern Michigan. The TV station reports that Marrow will take his finals at EMU next week and will then head to Lincoln, where he will reportedly be eligible to play immediately. As noted by the Journal Star, it’s unclear whether he’ll come in as a scholarship player or as a walk-on.

Charges reduced against Vols Brent Brewer; sophomore safety rejoins team

Tennessee safety Brent Brewer is back with the team and will be available for spring practice, coach Derek Dooley said today at his spring practice kickoff press conference. Brewer, a sophomore safety, was arrested last month on domestic abuse charges. He had the charges reduced to "offensive touching," and was placed on judicial diversion, according to a statement from his attorney, Don Bosch. The charges will then be dismissed in September, according to the statement. Brewer served a five-week suspension from all team activities, Dooley said. He said Brewer still faces "some other internal disciplinary measures," which includes a suspension from a session of summer school. "I think it was a learning lesson from Brent, it was a learning lesson for all the members of our team," Dooley said. "It was very unfortunate what happened. I think so many people have found themselves in a position where emotions are taking over and you have to learn to just leave. Walk away and walk out, no matter what anyone does to you." Brewer, a 22-year-old former professional baseball player, emerged as a major contributor during the second half of 2010, starting six games and finishing the year with 30 tackles.

Nation’s top recruit gets up close and personal with Columbia police

According to the Charleston Post & Courier‘s Travis Haney, South Carolina signee Jadeveon Clowney was frisked by Columbia police sometime after 2 a.m. ET outside of a bar called the Salty Nut. Haney writes that a “witness at the scene said Clowney was not detained and the cause of the search wasn’t immediately discernible.”

As of the time of this posting, no police report has been filed regarding the incident. That’s assuming, of course, there was even an incident on which a report needed filed.

It does beg the question, though, as to what an underage high school senior with his profile, and academic questions, is doing at a drinking establishment an hour from his home at two o’ clock in the morning on a Thursday night. Spring break or not, Clowney didn’t exactly put himself in the most optimum position to begin with; the picture of him being frisked by men with badges just cemented that fact.

Gamecocks' Ellington making move to play football

The whispers in Moncks Corner, growing in number and volume since December, are now audible at the University of South Carolina: Bruce Ellington is making a move to play football for the Gamecocks.

A source inside the football office confirmed today that the freshman point guard has spoken this week with both basketball coach Darrin Horn and a couple of USC’s football coaches.

The football team has not made the announcement officially because it’s still learning when he will be eligible. Because Ellington signed in the early period for basketball, an NCAA rule prevents him from participating in another sport until the completion of the player’s first academic year. USC’s football coaches are working to determine whether participating is deemed to be practice or games.

Worst-case scenario for the football team, the 5-9, 200-pound Ellington will join the Gamecocks this summer.

Ellington was part of the Berkeley High School 2009 state championship football team, doing a lot of damage with his legs at the quarterback position. The Gamecocks are targeting Ellington as a possible slot receiver, scatback and return man, though they’re unsure how exactly he will be used until he gets on the field.

Auburn spring features battle to replace QB Newton

The national champions opened spring practice Wednesday with largely untested junior Barrett Trotter and totally untested sophomore Clint Moseley vying to replace Heisman Trophy winner Cam Newton. “I’ve been coaching college for six years and had six different starting quarterbacks,” Malzahn said. “Somewhere down the line it would be nice to have that second year with the guy who knows how to think in the system, and really that I’ll know how they’re going to react on the field.” Quarterback is just the most prominent of many position battles the depleted Tigers face after a surprising 14-0 run. Newton, Lombardi Award winner Nick Fairley and leading receiver Darvin Adams all left early for pro careers, joining two dozen departed seniors and five players who were kicked off the team following arrests. Two more little-used reserves also weren’t on the spring roster. Even with three freshman signees enrolling early, all that left about 50 scholarship players until the rest of the Top 10-rated signing class arrives. Even an ailing head coach Gene Chizik wasn’t around for the early portion of Wednesday’s practice. He pulled up in his pickup truck at the practice field after warmups and stretching, and didn’t speak to the media afterward.

Auburn is practicing on the infield at the track and on the soccer field while their practice fields are being redone.

Georgia WR Kris Durham ran a 4.43 today

University of Georgia wide receiver Kris Durham ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds today, according to a league source who attended the Bulldogs' campus Pro Day workout.

The 6-foot-5, 217-pounder bench pressed 225 pounds 17 times and posted a 35-inch vertical leap and a 10-1 broad jump. He turned in a 4.09 short shuttle. He caught 32 passes for 659 yards and three touchdowns last season for the Bulldogs, playing opposite star wide receiver A.J. Green. He caught four passes for 112 yards and a touchdown against Vanderbilt, five passes for 101 yards against Arkansas and three receptions for 90 yards against Georgia Tech, including a career-long 66-yard catch.

Durham missed the 2009 season with a torn labrum in his left shoulder.

Ex-Clemson starting LB Brandon Maye moves on to Miss. St.

Brandon Maye has found himself a new collegiate home. The linebacker confirmed to Scout.com Monday night that he’s decided to take his talents to Mississippi State and the SEC. Maye chose the Bulldogs over offers South Carolina, Memphis and Southern Miss.

“I am going to Mississippi State,” said Maye. “One of the main reasons I picked Mississippi State was because of their sports administration program. Mississippi State is a place I can go and achieve some things I really want out of life like working in sports when I am done playing football. “With Coach Mullen there things are really on the upswing. They won nine games last year and we want to build on that this year. It was a real easy decision for me and I am happy about being a part of the program.” Maye said he will play middle linebacker for the Bulldogs. One of the main reasons Maye reportedly left Clemson was because he had been moved from middle to weakside linebacker.

Of the 35 games he played in with the Tigers, Maye started 33 of them. Maye, a redshirt junior last season, will be eligible to play immediately as he will enroll in a grad program not offered at his former school.

Nation’s top ’11 recruit should make the grade

Phil Kornblut of Palmetto Sports.com reports that Clowney “remains on track to qualify according to a source familiar with his situation.” Kornblut writes, according to the same source, that “if Clowney scores above average on three of the remaining core courses he is taking, he has a high enough test score to give him the NCAA qualifying combination of GPA and test score.”

Clowney was the consensus No. 1 player in the Class of 2011 according to every major recruiting service in the country. He chose South Carolina over Clemson, Alabama and a host of other schools.

The Rock Hill, SC, native is expected/being counted on to make an immediate impact for the Gamecocks defense. Provided he’s academically eligible, of course.

Vols starter reinstated after domestic assault rap reduced

A little over five weeks after being indefinitely suspended by head coach Derek Dooley, Brent Brewer has been welcomed back to the team, the Tennessee coach announced Monday afternoon. Brewer was arrested last month on a domestic assault charge, but that was reduced today to “offensive touching”. The safety was placed on judicial diversion, and his attorney told the Knoxville News Sentinel in a statement that the charge will be dismissed in September. With the legal issue, basically, out of the way, Dooley felt comfortable enough with the situation to reinstate Brewer on the eve of the start of spring practice. “He has served a five-week suspension from all team activities,” Dooley said. “There’s still some other internal disciplinary measure that are taken. It was a learning lesson for Brent, a learning lesson for all the members of our team (and) it was very unfortunate what happened. … “I think so many people have found themselves in a position where emotions are taking over and you have to learn to just leave. Walk away and walk out, no matter what anyone does to you.” The 22-year-old sophomore became a starter midway through the 2010 season, starting six games for the Volunteers. Last season was Brewer’s first in Knoxville following a four-year minor league baseball career in the Milwaukee Brewers organization. He had originally signed with the Florida State football program out of high school, but opted for the baseball route after being taken in the second round of the 2006 MLB draft.

Starting CB one of a pair of Rebels unavailable for the spring

Houston Nutt announced Saturday that starting cornerback Marcus Temple will not participate at all in the spring sessions that begin March 28. Temple has been hampered by a sports hernia, the coach said.

Temple has appeared in 37 games during his Rebels career, including 12 starts in 2010.

In addition to Temple, offensive lineman Michael Brown will be a non-participant for the entire spring. Brown has a disc problem in his back.

Tide’s top tackler arrested on misdemeanor charge

By way of TideSports.com, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office website lists defensive back Mark Barron as one of 23 inmates booked on Sunday, March 20. The senior-to-be was hit with an official charge of second-degree hindering prosecution, which is a misdemeanor.

What events that led to the arrest and charge are not yet known, although TideSports.com lists the definition of hindering prosecution according to the Alabama criminal code;

“(a) A person commits the crime of hindering prosecution in the second degree if with the intent to hinder the apprehension, prosecution, conviction or punishment of another for conduct constituting a Class C felony or a Class A misdemeanor, he renders criminal assistance to such person.”

An Alabama spokesperson told the Birmingham News that the school was in the process of gathering information on the incident.

Barron, who missed the Tide’s Capital One Bowl appearance due to a torn pectoral muscle suffered in the Iron Bowl loss to Auburn, led ‘Bama in solo tackles (54) and total tackles (75) last year. The late-season injury played a significant role in Barron’s decision to return for another season instead of joining a trio of his teammates in an early leap into the NFL draft.

The strong safety started all 12 games in which he played in 2010.

Former Georgia's Logan Gray confirms interest in Buffs

Speaking to the Boulder Daily Camera, Gray stated that he is indeed considering a transfer to the Buffaloes and will visit the school April 9. He’s also spoken to several CU assistants ahead of the visit.

“I’d say Colorado is probably the biggest Division I school that has shown a lot of interest to far,” he said. “I honestly just want to get on the field and try to make an impact for whatever team I go to and really just try to help them win games. I obviously have one year left, so I`m trying to have as big an impact at a school as I possibly can.”

Gray must transfer to a school that offers a grad program not available at the school from which he’s transferring in order to play in 2011. The senior-to-be, who will graduate in May from UGA with a speech communications degree, said CU offers 20 such programs.

When he announced in a statement earlier this year that he was transferring, Gray said that he would likely look for a school closer to his hometown of Columbia, Missouri. While Boulder is not much closer than Athens, he has a brother that attends CU.

In addition to Colorado, Gray also said that he’s considering Div. 1-AA Southern Illinois along with a handful of other unnamed schools.

Gator's Janoris Jenkins settles puff-n-pee legal issue

Jenkins pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge of possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana stemming, so to speak, from a January citation. Jenkins, the St. Petersburg Times reports, was ordered to pay $316 in various court costs and fines.

The case will be closed once the courts receive their money according to the Tampa Tribune.

Jenkins was cited following an “incident” at a Gainesville nightclub in which he was observed by police officers on routine patrol of the establishment rolling a joint in a bathroom. The charge came roughly two weeks after he eschewed the NFL draft and instead opted to return to the Gators for another season.

Jenkins, who will be under a no-contact edict for spring practice thanks to shoulder surgery, has started 36 games during his career at the Gainesville school.

WVU, Penn State among ‘Worst Sports Fans in America’

For once, the SEC has failed to come out on top of a set of rankings related to college football.In a “piece” that appears on the website of GQ magazine, the gentleman’s quarterly has decided to stir the pot a bit by ranking the 15 Worst Sports Fans in America. West Virginia, in all sports, not just football, comes in at No. 3 on the list behind a pair of Philadelphia franchises, the NFL’s Eagles and the MLB’s Phillies. Next collegiately is Penn State football at No. 7, followed by LSU football at No. 10 and Wisconsin football at No. 13.

Here’s the magazine’s reasoning behind the Mountaineers’ lofty ranking:

Yeah, sure, they’ve been condemned by the local mayor for shouting obscenities on national television broadcasts. And yes, given their history, it wasn’t really surprising last season when Pitt’s assistant basketball coach got pegged in the face with a metallic object (specifically, a quarter). But what really defines the West Virginia University faithful is their devotion to celebratory arson. The school led the nation in intentionally set street fires from 1997 to 2003, lighting up an unmatchable 1,120 blazes. That includes 120 in a single night to celebrate a football win over Virginia Tech in 2003 and sixty infernos set to celebrate advancing to the second round of the NCAA basketball tournament in 2005. When school is in session these days, the local fire department reports that it extinguishes as many as twelve Dumpster fires in a week. It’s all in keeping with the school’s (real) unofficial fan motto: Win or lose, we still booze!

So, what do y'all say? Who has the “worst” fan base in college football? Give us your comments, let loose.

Florida Gator's Jenkins pleads to marijuana charge

Florida cornerback Janoris Jenkins has accepted a plea deal on a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge.

The State Attorney’s Office agreed to withhold adjudication and ordered Jenkins to pay $316 in various court costs and fines Friday.

Jenkins, considered one of the top cornerbacks in the Southeastern Conference, was arrested in a Gainesville nightclub in January. Gainesville Police officers said they spotted Jenkins in a public bathroom rolling a marijuana cigarette. Jenkins was charged with possession of marijuana less than 20 grams. He was released after signing a notice to appear in court.

It was the football program’s first arrest under new coach Will Muschamp, who said he would handle the matter internally.

Four-star UGA signee undergoes surgery, status for summer camp unclear

According to the Athens Banner-Herald‘s Marc Weiszer, signee Sterling Bailey underwent surgery last week to repair a shoulder issue following the completion of his high school’s basketball season. His coach in that sport, Bryan Gray, told the paper that Bailey “had some tears in his labrum”.

It was Bailey’s decision to delay the surgery until after the conclusion of basketball season, although Gray said that UGA “been advising him and he’s been in constant communication with Georgia’s medical staff.”

Putting off that surgery, however, may have an impact on his availability for the start of camp this summer. For his part, Gray feels that there will be enough time between now and the start of camp for the defensive end, who’s slated to be a linebacker with the Bulldogs, to finish rehab and put himself in a position where he’s 100-percent healthy to start his freshman year.

“Knowing the kid and his great work ethic, I’m sure he’ll be ready to go come August,” Gray said.

If not, there’s always a chance that the team will decide to redshirt Bailey, who was rated as the No. 8 DE in the country by Rivals.

Ex-UGA QB/WR Gray might have an interest in Buffs

Dave Matter of the Columbia Daily Tribune tweeted earlier Thursday that he’d “heard… Gray is visiting Colorado soon.” As far as any type of details regarding Gray’s interest level in the Buffaloes, Matter didn’t get into any because, well, it’s Twitter and there’s a 140-space limit.

Matter did add that Gray is expected to look at other schools after spring practices concluded, although no specific schools weren’t mentioned.

Wherever Gray ultimately lands, and provided they offer a grad program not available at UGA, he will have one year of eligibility remaining.

Gray, a four-star player and the No. 10 dual-threat quarterback in the country in 2007, was in a three-way battle for the Bulldogs starting quarterback job last spring that ultimately was won by Aaron Murray, and Gray was subsequently moved to receiver. He played in all 13 games in 2010, and finished with nine receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown.

Thomas McGaughey named LSU's special teams coach

Thomas McGaughey, who has spent the past four seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants, has been named LSU's special teams coordinator, head coach Les Miles announced on Thursday.

McGaughey served as the assistant special teams coordinator with the New York Giants from 2007-10, during which time the franchise ranked among the most productive in the NFL. During his career, McGaughey has coached for eight years in the NFL, two years at the collegiate level and he spent one season in NFL-Europe.

In addition to his special teams duties, Miles said McGaughey will assist on the defensive side of the ball.

"Thomas is a great addition to the staff," Miles said. "He comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in all phases of special teams. He's coached in both the NFL and college so he has a tremendous understanding of the game. We are excited about bringing Thomas and his family to LSU."

Most recently, McGaughey spent four years with the New York Giants, where he helped the franchise capture the Super Bowl in 2007 and win the NFC East crown in 2008.

4 Auburn ex-players admit robbery roles

Court documents show that four former Auburn football players have admitted to involvement in a robbery.

Warrants sworn out Friday show that starting safety Michael McNeil and freshmen Shaun Kitchens, Antonio Goodwin and Dakota Mosley made rights-advised statements on the robbery. All four were dismissed from the team and are charged with first-degree robbery and burglary.

Warrants by witnesses and victims allege that the four entered a residence with handguns and demanded items, including cell phones and a hand-held safe. Auburn police pulled over a vehicle occupied by the four and said they found the stolen property inside, along with a handgun and air pistol.

McNeil and Mosley are both out on bond while Kitchens and Goodwin remain jailed.

South Carolina suspends QB Garcia for 1 week

South Carolina opened spring practice Tuesday without starting quarterback Stephen Garcia, who coach Steve Spurrier said was suspended from workouts for a week for violating team rules. Spurrier wouldn’t specify what Garcia did, only saying it happened sometime last year. Backup QB Andrew Clifford also is suspended for a week. “Sometimes when players are removed hopefully they appreciate the privilege they have practicing with their teammates. It’s no fun being not being on the team, from what I understand. So hopefully, all these guys will understand, if they want to be on the team, just follow the simple rules we have,” Spurrier said after practice.

Garcia now has missed at least part of three of his five spring practices on campus. Three run-ins with the law during his first 15 months at South Carolina caused him to miss all offseason practices in 2007 and 2008. Garcia has started every game for the past two seasons, leading the Gamecocks their first Southeastern Conference championship game last season. But he threw five interceptions as South Carolina lost its final two games to Auburn in the SEC title game and Florida State in the Chick-fil-A Bowl. His relationship with Spurrier has often been rocky and Spurrier hasn’t committed to Garcia being the starter for 2011. Last year’s second-string QB, Connor Shaw, zipped passes for most of Tuesday’s practice along with Seth Strickland and Dylan Thompson.

But whatever Garcia did this time didn’t appear to sour his relationship with his coach.

“He’s actually been pretty good this semester,” Spurrier said. “This is something that happened in the past. Just got around to handling it. it’s a violation of team rules. He’ll be back next week to answer all y’all’s questions.”

Florida’s Burton, Reed move on from the quarterback position

New offensive coordinator Charlie Weis told ESPN’s Mark Schlabach that quarterbacks Trey Burton and Jordan Reed will be looking to help the Gators’ offense in other ways this spring. According to Weis, Reed will try his luck at tight end, and Burton will look to take on a hybrid, “F-back” position. In addition to moving to a more pro-style offense that may better suit the needs of incumbent starter John Brantley, the Gators were also loaded at the quarterback spot. Behind Brantley, at least in the initial depth chart, were Burton, Reed, sophomore Tyler Murphy and highly touted freshman Jeff Driskel. Playing time and comfort level clearly influenced the decision. "Could Jordan play quarterback? You betcha. Jordan can play quarterback and he can sling it. But Jordan sees himself as a tight end," Weis said. "Burton didn’t really see himself as a quarterback. He just didn’t know what he was. I think more than anything, he was just trying to find a home and niche and grow into a position."

2010′s numbers show that the moves by Burton and Reed may turn out to be logical ones. Reed accounted for only 3 of Gators’ 12 passing touchdowns (Burton had none) last season, but the two combined for 18 rushing and receiving touchdowns, nearly half the team’s totals.

UGA's Mark Richt gets slapped on a secondary technicality

The violation stems from the recruitment of Isaiah Crowell, one of the top running backs in the country and the crown jewel of Georgia’s 2011 recruiting class. The school self-reported what they hope will be considered a secondary violation that occurred during Crowell’s official visit in January and involved a “missing-player formation”.

"Mark Richt and the football staff arranged for the offensive lineman, wide receivers, fullback and quarterback to gather during the PSA’s (Crowell) official visit exit meeting in the indoor practice facility that Coach Richt’s office overlooks. The current student-athletes walked into the practice facility and were dressed in their game-day uniform tops only and looked up toward Coach Richt’s office. … By the time the PSA made his way to the field, the team was in an offensive alignment without a running back. The PSA was subsequently handed a jersey and stood in the vacant running back position created by the team."

Per McGarity’s letter, "Coach Richt knew that the team could not use equipment or run a play to create a tryout activity but did not check with the Compliance Office beforehand about the offensive alignment. … Coach Richt knew that the activity could not occur in the stadium, for the public to view, equipment to be used or for an actual play to be run an did not believe this constituted a game day simulation."

As a result of the violation, Gentry Estes of Dawgs 24/7.com writes, Richt would not be allowed to place phone calls to recruits or their families during April’s evaluation period.

Additionally, Crowell’s eligibility had apparently been stripped as the school asked for it to be restored, which it was.

Auburn has alot of replacing to do

David Morrison of the Opelika-Auburn News, has laid out in such a stark, black-and-white manner, how it’s going to be damn-near impossible to include Auburn in any Top 25 rankings.

Morrison writes that, in addition to losing Newton, Gene Chizik will be forced to replace 23 players due to expiring eligibility, as well as their top defensive player, Nick Fairley, and leading receiver the past two seasons, Darvin Adams, who left early for the NFL draft. Noy to mention, the "incident" last week in which four Auburn players were arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to an apparent armed robbery, leading to the dismissal of the entire quartet. One of those players, safety Mike McNeil, was a starter for the last seven games in 2010.

Statistically, there’s quite a bit of production that’s gone out the door for one reason or another.

The Tigers are losing 98 percent of their passing and nearly half of their rushing – most of that coming in the form of Newton – along with about two-thirds of their receiving.

Six of their top seven tacklers are gone, players who accounted for 40 percent of the Tigers’ stops last year, along with their top two sack men and the three players that tied for the team lead in interceptions.

Auburn will be forced to replace 20 players who started a total of 224 games in 2010. Not included in that total, and as noted by Morrison, the Tigers will also have to replace their kicker, punter and holder.

There’s little doubt Chizik has landed a couple of very impressive recruiting classes during his first two years on "The Plains". However, losing that much talent from one year to the next does not exactly scream "repeat"

Alabama increasing season ticket sales for 2011

Alabama is increasing their season ticket prices by 3 percent — or $10 — from the previous season to bring the seven-game total $385. It marks the fifth season in a row that the Crimson Tide have increased season ticket prices by exactly $10.

Coincidentally(?), all five increases have come under the soon-to-be-immortalized Nick Saban.

For an elite program, however, $385 might be considered a steal. According to the Birmingham News, Ohio State charges $490 for seven home games, and Notre Dame’s season ticket package is $420 for six home games. The News also indicates there is a 20,000 person waiting list for the season tickets.

As a personal aside, I can see North Texas get slapped by the Tide — like I did in ’09 — for $45.

Hiring of new assistant confirmed by LSU

Thomas McGaughey, who has spent the majority of his coaching career at the NFL level, has been named as the Tigers’ special teams coordinator. He will also help on the defensive side of the ball, the release stated. The 37-year-old assistant had spent the past four seasons with the New York Giants. "Thomas is a great addition to the staff," head coach Les Miles said. "He comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and expertise in all phases of special teams. He’s coached in both the NFL and college so he has a tremendous understanding of the game. We are excited about bringing Thomas and his family to LSU." Prior to joining the Giants, McGaughey was with the Denver Broncos for two seasons (2005-2006), while he spent one season (2002) with the Kansas City Chiefs.

His only collegiate coaching experience came at his alma mater. From 2002-2003, McGaughey was Houston’s special teams coordinator as well as serving as cornerbacks coach during his last year with the Cougars.

Four Auburn players arrested on multiple robbery charges

Well here is the latest dirt of the SEC. According to multiple media outlets, four Auburn players have been arrested and hit with multiple robbery charges. Junior defensive back Mike McNeil (pictured), freshman wide receiver Shaun Kitchens, freshman wide receiver Antonio Goodwin and freshman tight end Dakota Mosley were charged Friday with five counts of first-degree robbery. Each. Additionally, they were each charged with one count of burglary in the first degree and one count of theft of property in the first degree.

From the Auburn police department press release:

According to the five victims present, three black males entered the residence with one displaying a handgun. Personal property was stolen during the incident. No injuries were reported. A patrolman responding to the area observed what he believed to be the suspect vehicle based on a description he was given. Officers stopped the vehicle in the 1200 block of Wire Road and four suspects were taken into custody. A pistol and the stolen property was recovered at the scene. Goodwin, Kitchens, McNeil, and Mosley were transported to the Lee County Detention Center where each is currently being held on a $511,000 bond.

In what can only be described as a very swift reaction, especially in this day and age, all four players have already been permanently dismissed from the football program by head coach Gene Chizik.

Linebacker Michael Hunt leaves Mississippi State football team

Mississippi State head coach Dan Mullen announced Tuesday after his team’s two-hour spring workout that sophomore linebacker Michael Hunt has left the Bulldogs football program this week. Hunt, who was projected on the 2011 spring depth chart as a starting linebacker, had 22 tackles in 17 career games at Mississippi State in a reserve role during his first two seasons on the active roster. The Bulldogs third-year head coach said he expected this decision by Hunt to be permanent. "Just doesn’t like football," the coach said. "He lost his love for the game." Hunt was ranked as the No. 63 safety prospect in the country by ESPN.com following his senior season at Franklin County (Miss.) High School in 2006 and listed as the No. 16 prospect in the state following his senior season by Rivals.com before signing with State over Ole Miss.

Mullen also announced Tuesday evening that junior defensive tackle Fletcher Cox was absent from practice due to “personal reasons” involving his family back home in Yazhoo City.

Florida to unveil Heisman statues at halftime of spring game

The University of Florida will unveil three statues outside of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at halftime of the team’s spring game, the Orange & Blue Debut presented by Scotts, on April 9, featuring the school’s three Heisman winners: Steve Spurrier (1966), Danny Wuerffel (1996) and Tim Tebow (2007).

"We are very proud to recognize the accomplishments of our Heisman Trophy winners," said Senior Associate Athletics Director Chip Howard. "The statues will give our fans an opportunity to see and capture a real-life visual image of each of the storied athletes. We are grateful for the private donations that made the project possible. We are also thankful for the work and cooperation of the Campus Facilities Planning and Construction Department that assisted us in following University policy and procedure that helped bring this project to fruition. The sculptor, Sandy Proctor, was meticulous in every phase of the process and did a tremendous job bringing the likeness and personality to each of the statues." The life-sized statues will be installed on the west side of the stadium near the skybox entrance, and the unveiling will be shown on Florida’s scoreboards inside the stadium. All three honorees will have a level of participation in the event. The statues weigh a combined 17,000 pounds and were sculpted by Sandy Proctor. They were provided to the University of Florida through private donations. Florida is one of eight schools in the nation with at least three Heisman trophy winners and one of two with at least three quarterbacks who have won the college football’s most prestigious award.

LSU reaches into NFL and pulls out a coach

The Newark Star-Ledger is reporting that Thomas McGaughey has left the New York Giants and accepted a position on Les Miles’ Tigers coaching staff. Based on the report, McGaughey will assume Joe Robinson‘s former roles, special teams coordinator and defensive line coach. McGaughey spent the past four seasons with the NFL’s Giants. Prior to that, he spent two seasons (2005-2006) with the Denver Broncos and one season (2002) with the Kansas City Chiefs. His only collegiate coaching experience came at his alma mater. From 2002-2003, McGaughey was Houston’s special teams coordinator as well as serving as cornerbacks coach during his last year with the Cougars.

Ex-Vols defensive line coach insists he was forced out

Chuck Smith’s sudden departure from Tennessee was already curious. But after the former Volunteer star and NFL defensive end held a press conference on Friday to “explain” the circumstances surrounding his dismissal as defensive line coach, I think it’s safe to call it bizarre. During one 25-minute session, Smith said he was not fired but was not allowed to stay, said he was a “Vol for life” but would consider coaching at another SEC school, compared himself to former UT head coach Lane Kiffin, apologized to recruits for “lying” and saying he’d be there to coach them, and denied rumors he had come to blows with defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox. Smith did manage to thank head coach Derek Dooley and everybody at UT except for Wilcox and the rest of the Vols’ defensive staff. So clearly things aren’t hunky-dory there. "I put my heart and soul into a job, and I want to let you guys know why I left. The decision to leave the University of Tennessee wasn’t my decision," said Smith, , an Athens native a former Atlanta Falcon. "The decision was made, let me make sure I say the right thing, this is tough, a mutual decision was brought to me that I’m too big for the program and my stature is too big and I could better help serve this program in a different capacity. Stay and move to another position here or go home. I decided under the circumstances at the school I love and with the effort I put in, in fairness to the program, I probably would need to step to the side. The point is, I never agreed to step to the side." Dooley announced that Tennessee and Smith were parting ways on Feb. 6, the weekend after national signing day. Numerous recruits cited Smith’s presence as a big reason they wanted to sign with the Vols.

Alabama’s McElroy out of cast, closer to throwing for scouts

Former Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy is one step closer to being able to finally throw for pro scouts after suffering a cracked bone in his throwing hand during the Senior Bowl. Via his Twitter account, McElroy declared "Cast off!! Still have to wear a splint for 2 more weeks but at least I have freedom!." McElroy’s injury was initially diagnosed as a cracked bone before being downgraded to a bone bruise. After a second opinion, however, McElroy’s injury was again a cracked bone. McElroy did not participate in throwing drills during the NFL combine (but he did score a 48 on his Wonderlic) and it still looks as though he will not participate in many, if any, drills during Alabama’s Wednesday pro day.

McElroy does, however, appear to be on track to hold an independent workout for NFL scouts once he is able to resume throwing.

Georgia's Marlon Brown, Wide Receiver...has to step up..big shoes to fill

With A.J. Green's premature departure, Georgia loses their number one weapon at receiver and arguably one of the best athletes in UGA history. Green cannot be replaced, and Georgia's offensive philosophy will have to adjust without having a game changing receiver in the line up.

Regular production at receiver will be vital. Marlon Brown will have to step up. Despite being a highly recruited prospect, he's seen limited playing time. As an incoming redshirt sophomore, Brown is expected to be the second receiver on Georgia's depth chart.

He's a mystery right now, but Brown could very well blossom into a top SEC receiver. He won't be A.J. Green good, but if he can be a 50 catch receiver, he'll help the offense drastically.

UK's Cobb Honored by Touchdown Club of Atlanta

Kentucky wide receiver Randall Cobb has been chosen for the Bill Hartman Award as the Southeast Special Teams Player of the Year by the Touchdown Club of Atlanta. The Hartman Award will be bestowed Saturday during the TD Club’s annual awards ceremony at the Ferst Center of the Arts. Cobb will not be able to attend because of the National Football League combine. Cobb earned the honor based on his remarkable all-around performance in 2010 as a punt returner, kickoff returner, holder, wide receiver and quarterback:

• Averaged 7.8 yards on punt returns, including one return for a touchdown
• Averaged 23.7 yards per kickoff return
• Served as the team’s placekick holder and threw a touchdown pass on a fake field goal
• Led the Southeastern Conference in pass receiving with 84 catches for 1,017 yards and seven touchdowns
• Rushed for 424 yards and five touchdowns
• Threw three touchdown passes during the season, including the fake field goal TD.
• SEC single-season record with 2,396 all-purpose yards.

The Southeast Special Teams Player of the Year adds to the list of honors for Cobb that includes first-team All-America as chosen by The Associated Press, ESPN.com and SportsIllustrated.com This marks the seventh time that a Kentucky player has won an award in the long, prestigious history of the Touchdown Club of Atlanta.

Georgia Bulldog's Ray Goff....Hall of Fame QB

You will find his name listed twice in the section in the Georgia football record book labeled "Passing TDs." He connected with Gene Washington in 1976 versus Kentucky for 87 yards and earlier in the season for 75 yards to Washington against Ole Miss. There were numerous touchdown "bombs" to add to his resume. Additionally, in the category "Touchdown Responsibility-Game," he is tied for second place with five others with five TDs: three rushing and two passing. His career was very productive, leading the Bulldogs to the SEC title in 1976 when he was named SEC Player of the Year. In the era when Bill Yeoman of Houston developed the Veer, which prominently featured passing concepts, option football was still king. The wishbone had been dominant for some time, but the Veer was more explosive. There was a lot of movement at the line of scrimmage with the Veer, a quick-striking offense. Goff, certainly not a sprinter, was nonetheless a quick and powerful runner, perfect for the Bulldog offense. As Georgia's 22nd head coach, Goff had a winning percentage of 58.1 (46-34-1), his high-water mark coming in 1992 when his team finished 10-2, defeating Ohio State, 21-14, in the Citrus Bowl. When he was inducted into the State of Georgia Sports Hall of Fame last weekend, his most distinguished coaching statistic for Bulldog partisans is that in the series against the big rival, Georgia Tech, his record is a sparkling 5-2.

Saban’s ‘not going to have a lot to say about’ QB competition

It's widely expected that the competition will come down to two players, AJ McCarron and Phillip Sims. Nick Saban said Friday that he will simply allow the fight for the starting job to play itself out rather than try to force a decision, regardless of how much focus and scrutiny the media gives to the position. "I know that every press conference between now and whatever is going to be about the quarterback," Saban said. "I'm not going to have a lot to say about it. This is something that you have to let happen and you have to let develop. Even though it may create a great news story every day it’s something that cannot be affected by anything other than what happened on the field."

Saban also added that he would "appreciate it if we don't" create a quarterback controversy, and that somebody’s "going to have to earn the job through their ability to manage the team, lead the team and make good choices and decisions that allows them to play winning football on the team." McCarron would seem to have an edge entering spring practice over both Sims and true freshman Phillip Ely. Last season as a redshirt freshman, McCarron threw 48 passes, completing 30, while Sims used his freshman season as a redshirt year.

Alabama lineman out for spring practice, perhaps for good

Nick Saban has indicated that the Tide will going forth without at least three of its defensive players: defensive lineman Kerry Murphy, and defensive backs Kendall Kelly and Wes Neighbors. All three have been absent from team workouts due to injuries and will miss all of spring practice. Saban wouldn’t go into specifics of the injuries, but did offer a cryptic, Nostradamus-esque prediction of exactly where he thought the future of the three players would be. "All these guys have physical issues that have not allowed them to participate in the offseason program and will not allow them to participate in the spring, and most certainly could affect their future ability to contribute here," Saban said. Saban didn’t elaborate as to whether any of the three would go on medical scholarship.

UGA QB Murray says he’ll be ’100 percent’ for start of spring ball

Speaking to reporters ahead of the start of the spring sessions, the Georgia quarterback said he’s fine and will be 100 percent when March 10 rolls around. Murray was in a walking boot for a week, but it appears the junior-to-be was more concerned about how his coach and offensive coordinator would react than he was with the injury. "A little scare that Mike Bobo and Mark Richt were gonna rip me a new one," Murray said. "I was lying on the ground saying, ‘I don’t want to talk to Coach Bobo right now.’ But I knew it was nothing serious." While Murray stated that the injury scare has led him to swearing off the playing of other sports, Richt reiterated that he’s not going encase his players in bubble wrap and lock them in a closet out of fear that they might get injured. "I want these guys to live their lives and enjoy it," Richt said. "It seems like no matter what you do, somebody can still stumble down the steps and get hurt. So I’ve never really done that."

Auburn ‘lost’ $600K on title-game trip

The Birmingham News has learned that Auburn spent $2,901,706 for their football sojourn in the desert. That total was offset by an expense allowance of $2,287,600 given to the school by the SEC, meaning that Auburn “lost” just a little over $614,000. The News writes, Oregon reported having a final deficit of $285,437 from its Pac-10 allowance of $2,263,295 over 10 days. In other words, it “cost” Auburn in the neighborhood of $330,000 more than it did their title game opponents.

In reality, unsold tickets were the primary culprits in both schools being technically in the red.

The largest single-line expense item for both teams was unsold game tickets that get used for complimentary purposes to administrators, band members, cheerleaders and others.

Auburn absorbed a loss of $781,825 from 2,456 unsold tickets from its allotment of 17,400. Oregon lost $555,575 by withholding 1,761 of its 17,400 tickets.

Another factor in Auburn "losing" more money than Oregon was the size of the respective schools’ traveling parties. Oregon brought 493 people to the event, while Auburn nearly doubled that number with 938.

Of course, all of this talk of either school losing money based on the bowl expense report is simply a matter of fiddling with an incomplete set of financial numbers, as noted by the News.

Additional bowl revenue the schools receive through their conferences is not included in the NCAA reports. Counting the BCS payout and other SEC bowl money, Auburn will more than come out ahead.

Miles says three-way QB competition ‘will be a fair one’

Speaking ahead of the start of spring practice March 11, head coach Les Miles said he’s going to give all three of his QBs — Jefferson, Mettenberger and Jarrett Lee — a fair shot at the starting job. Oh, and he hasn’t completely ruled out going with a two-QB system either.

"We’re going to give Lee and Mettenberger the opportunity to do the things that they do and give Jordan Jefferson the opportunity to do the things that he does," Miles said Thursday, apparently referring to the latter’s innate ability to toss both interceptions and incompletions with the mere flick of his wrist.

"I don’t know that we’ll be in a two-quarterback system, but we’re going to let those guys that might naturally throw, throw, and we’re going to let those guys that might naturally have athletic ability and movement to do those things that they do. So, the competition will be a fair one."

Gamecocks announce spring practice schedule

The University of South Carolina's 2011 spring football practice dates have been set. The Gamecocks are slated to open their spring drills on Tuesday, March 15, and conclude with the annual Garnet & Black Spring Game on Saturday, April 9. All 15 of the spring practice sessions are open to the public. Most practices will take place at the Bluff Road practice fields beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday scrimmages will take place at Williams-Brice Stadium at 10 a.m. All dates and times are subject to change. Persons with cameras will be permitted to shoot the first 15 minutes of each practice only. After that, no still or video photography will be allowed during the practice sessions. Also, autographs will not be allowed at the practice sessions. "We're going to open up the entire spring to our fans and hope to have big crowds at our Saturday scrimmages," said head coach Steve Spurrier. The Garnet & Black Spring Game will be held Saturday, April 9, beginning at 1 p.m. at Williams-Brice Stadium. Admission to the spring game is free. The defending SEC Eastern Division Champion Gamecocks, under seventh-year head coach Steve Spurrier will return 48 lettermen, including 13 starters, seven on offense and six on defense, from a squad that went 9-5 in 2010 and finished the season ranked 22nd in both major polls.

Former Arkansas tight end D.J. Williams in running for the Sullivan Award

Former Arkansas tight end D.J. Williams has won his fair share of awards in the last few months and he’s closing in on another. Williams, who won the Mackey Award and Disney Spirit Award last year, was named one of five finalists for the Sullivan Award Thursday. The winner of the award, which is given to the top amateur athlete in the nation by the New York Athletic Club, will be named March 14. A Little Rock native, Williams finished his Arkansas career as the school’s top tight end, catching 149 passes for 1,831 yards and 10 touchdowns. He went through the NFL Scouting Combine last weekend in Indianapolis and will go through a Pro Day in Fayetteville next Tuesday in preparation of April’s NFL Draft. "It was a pleasure to be able to coach him because he exemplifies all of the qualities the award represents," Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino said in a statement. "D.J.’s leadership was instrumental in the success we had on the field this past season, and his strong moral character will continue to show the players in our program what it means to be a Razorback."

UK Wildcats to kickoff against WKU on a Thursday

The University of Kentucky’s season-opening game against Western Kentucky has moved from Saturday, Sept. 3 to Thursday, Sept. 1 at Nashville’s LP Field.

The game was moved to accommodate Tennessee State, who has first rights at LP Field and has its home opener scheduled for Sept. 3.

The two schools are still working on a specific time and television options, according to UK spokesman Tony Neely. Western will be the home team in the matchup.

Dismissed Auburn RB facing domestic violence charge

On Monday, Auburn confirmed that running back Eric Smith had been dismissed from the football program for violating unspecified team rules. Today, we learn that one of the Tigers’ team rules is "avoid domestic violence charges". According to multiple media outlets, Smith was arrested Feb. 22 on a charge of third-degree domestic violence. The police report stated that Smith was arrested at 11:15 p.m., and was sober and did not resist arrest. So he’s got that going for him, which is good. No further details of the events that led up to the arrest were made available.

The arrest was Smith’s second during his time as a Tiger. In August of 2009, he was charged with third-degree assault after becoming involved in a fight with a fellow Auburn student.

Update: Auburn Hires Mike Pelton as Defensive Line Coach

Mike Pelton, a former All-SEC standout at Auburn, has been named defensive line coach at his alma mater, announced head coach Gene Chizik Wednesday. Pelton worked under Chizik as the defensive line coach at Iowa State from 2007-08.

"I'm very excited and humbled to return to Auburn and be a part of what Coach Chizik and his staff have built during the last two years," Pelton said. "I look forward to working with a young defensive line and getting them ready to compete next season. Auburn has always had a special place in my heart and it's been my goal to coach at my alma mater. I can't wait to return to the Plains and get started."

As a player at Auburn, Pelton was a standout defensive tackle at Auburn, earning first team All-SEC recognition in 1994. A four-year letterman from 1991-94, Pelton was a co-captain as a senior and helped the Tigers win a school-record 20 consecutive games from 1993-94.

"I was fortunate to have Mike on my previous staff and I have known him for several years," Chizik said. "He's a great coach, a tireless worker and an outstanding recruiter who has mentored some very good players, including NFL standouts Demarcus Ware and Osi Umenyiora, both who are from Auburn. Mike is very familiar with the state and region, and he knows what it takes to coach and recruit in the Southeastern Conference. We look forward to having a member of the Auburn Family return home and join our staff."

Pelton, 39, was hired in January as defensive line coach at Louisiana Lafayette after serving as defensive ends coach at Vanderbilt in 2010.

New leader for Auburn coaching vacancy emerges

Last week, Clint Hurtt was the presumptive leader to take over for Tracy Rocker as Auburn’s defensive line coach. The Birmingham News is reporting this afternoon that Mike Pelton has emerged as the leading candidate to take over for Rocker. So much so, in fact, that his hiring could be announced by the Tigers as early as today.

Pelton, who was hired by Louisiana-Lafayette following the 2010 season, was an All-SEC defensive lineman at Auburn in the nineties and spent the past two seasons at Vanderbilt. Prior to that, he coached at Troy for six seasons.

Vandy's Black and Gold Spring Game set April 17

The next phase in James Franklin's push to change the culture of Vanderbilt football starts March 18 when the Commodores open spring drills.
Franklin, preparing to direct his first spring practice as a head coach, expects to achieve several goals as the Commodores work toward the featured Black & Gold Spring Game, scheduled Sunday, April 17 in Vanderbilt Stadium.
Franklin will focus on increasing expectations throughout the Vanderbilt roster.
"We'll be laying a foundation to build on this summer and in fall camp," Franklin said. "We want to instill confidence in our guys. We want them feeling great entering the Black & Gold Spring Game and as we go forward from there.
"All the guys have given Coach Dwight Galt and his staff great effort during our winter conditioning program and I also think we can build on that this spring," the coach added.
Franklin will welcome nearly 85 players at the first spring session. The Commodore roster will include 26 contributors with started multiple games last season.
Introducing new playbooks and coaching philosophies will be a priority for Franklin and his staff. "It's important that we install everything we can, and find out the things we can do successfully," Franklin said. "The coaches are great teachers and the players are excellent students, so we'll introduce as much as we can.

Franklin also promises plenty of competition through the 15 spring practices.

Major program to be outed for major recruiting violations

On his ESPN radio program Tuesday afternoon, the 30:00 mark in this clip, Colin Cowherd tap-danced around rumors that we’ve been hearing for the past few days, that a top-10 program will be the subject of an, for lack of a better word, exposé by a very recognizable media entity in the coming days. Here’s Cowherd’s minute-long monologue on what would be a seismic development if proven true:

I received an interesting text about 10 days ago, and this should be very frightening if you’re a fan of college football, that a major program in this country is going to be outed very soon for major recruiting violations. It is a top 10-12 program. I know what I think it is according to both my sources; I received another tip last night. I went to Vince Doria, who is sort of the journalistic editor at this company. He had heard the exact same thing. We are pursuing this story with vigor. A major publication is about to unseat a major college football power on recruiting violations. I will tell you from my source, it is not, it is not, Auburn. I will leave it at that. It is a major program and a major publication. When we can validate more… I have not been able to validate it nor has this company. We’re both pursuing it.

Shortly after Cowherd’s words hit the airwaves, John Canzano of The Oregonian was contacted by, he writes, "several national college football writers after those early rumors began to point at the University of Oregon being that program." An Oregon source denied they are the football program in question.

Oregon is not the school we have heard connected to these rumors, nor is it Auburn, nor will we mention the school’s name we’ve heard floated around as it’s not been remotely confirmed.