What ever happened to high-fiving?! Or give me ten?! As long as I've been involved in sports, high fives were a way of showing sportsmanship... or letting a teammate know they made a great move... or thanking a teammate for picking up a blown coverage, etc.

High fives were even existant in everyday life whether you were an athlete or not! I bet half of high school seniors wouldn't know what a high five was if it slapped them in the face--sad but true. Now its dap.... who came up with that?! And how did it become so popular that high-fives are now as cool as scrunchies, green eye shadow or gray jeans?! I used to get so frustrated in high school before basketball games when we would go to shake a referee's hand and he would stick out his fist for dap..... I really don't like it..... What do we have to do to change it back?!

Isn't it nice to have an option? You can either head to Bossier tonight to check out the Bossier-Shreveport BattleWings (vs. Rio Grande Valley at 7:30) or head to Shreveport to watch the Shreveport-Bossier Captains (face El Paso at 7:05)... it sure is nice to have options!!! Heck, game hop and then head out to Mudbug Madness!!!! Either way, we will have highlights tonight at ten!

The NFL has awarded New Orleans Super Bowl XLVII in 2013, the first Super Bowl in the Crescent City since 2002.  Governor Jindal says, "This is a huge win for New Orleans but also for the entire state of Louisiana."

The regional economic impact of a Super Bowl can reach over $200 Million and no region of the country could use more of a boost than the gulf coast area.  

The city won the bid over Glendale, Arizona and South Florida for the right to host the NFL's premier event.  Jerry Jones new Cowboys Stadium will host the Super Bowl in 2011.

Regardless of what you think of Vick, he's going to return to the NFL. It's going to happen, whether America likes it or not. He has, technically paid his debt to society and money talks. Vick is a good player, he may or may not be in quarterback shape, but he's still young and a tremendous athlete--he could play wide receiver, tight end... heck, he'd be an unbelievable free safety. And with all the time on his hands in jail, I'm sure he pumped iron all day long! So there are some teams out there that could really use the help of an athlete that would make an immediate impact.

I think when it's all said and done, the lucky team to land Vick will lose a few season-ticket holders who also happen to be animal lovers, but they gain a few more when they start adding "W's" to the win column. I think Vick is good enough to make that happen---don't get me wrong what he did was absolutely terrible and you'll never catch me sporting a Vick jersey, but for now, I'm going to get used to the fact that I'll probably be saying his name in a lot of football highlights in the future.

Tomorrow is Shreveport-Bossier's first look at the Captains, well the 2009 Captains.  The first pitch of their home-opener is Tuesday night at 7:05. I can't wait... it's not just a name change, Fairgrounds Field has undergone a face-lift including a new scoreboard, tables above the dug-outs and an improved beer garden. Come check it out!!!!

The LSU Tiger Tour rolled through Shreveport tonight... and, it's obvious we have a lot of Tiger fans in town, but I was amazed at the turn-out. The Horseshoe Riverdome was packed as fans enjoyed dinner, cold beverages and the company of LSU's finest.

Les Miles, Trent Johnson and Van Chancellor were on hand to speak and chat with the fans... and we had the opportunity to speak with each coach individually. I'm telling you, this is one of the coolest parts of being a sportscaster... all  year long I've followed their teams' progress, reported the news (good and the bad), called highlights, etc. And it is so cool to meet them in person and have the opportunity to pick their brain. It was actually the first time I've meet each of them.. so it will be that much more special to me the next time I'm reporting on their players....

I guess I take for granted the fact that the local coaches are so convenient to interview. I can just show up or personally call them to do a quick interview or ask a question about a score or a stat... You just can't pick up the phone and say, "So Les, how'd it go out there today?"

Ha! Anyway, once I've met a coach or player and I like them--like their personality, find out they really are a nice person... I think it makes my job just a little harder, in the sense that it's harder to report any bad news that comes up surrounding their program... and I find myself upset every time they lose!!!! Ha! And I liked all the guys I met today.. Anyway, tune in all week to hear more from the LSU!

What would the Fall, Winter and early Spring be like in Shreveport-Bossier without the Mudbugs? That's a question that didn't even seem pose-able two weeks ago.

Today, it's a possibility as real as retaliation for whacking a goalie. John Madden has been the majority or sole owner of the Mudbugs since 2002. During his tenure, the team has lost over $1 Million. Even though the bottom line appears to be inching out of the red and closer to black, that's still a lot of money to drop on a passion purchase. Remember? John Madden, the construction guy from Minden, Louisiana fell in love with the game during his first viewing of the Bugs. He HAD to get involved. And boy, did he.

From the time he has been involved, the Mudbugs have been first class. In personnel; travel accomodations; community outreach; etc.

For those reasons, there is hope among the Mudbugs faithful that someone, or a group of someones will realize the value of the franchise along the Red River and keep this good thing going.

If you're a sports fan, this weekend is going to be a blast for you. LSU and Arkansas match up on the baseball diamond in fayetteville. LSU is tied for first place with the University of Georgia in the overall SEC standings. The tigers are in sole possesion of the SEC West, but only one-half game ahead of Arkansas... so this series is a big one!

 Around the area, we have the high school lacrosse state championships. The semis will be held tomorrow, with the state championship game on Sunday. All games will be played at Independence Stadium.

 And a big Rugby Tournament going on at A.C. Steer Park. Saturday is the Men's Division I Club Rugby Round of 32, so a play-off game between Shreveport RFC and Kansas City Blues RFC.

If you aren't able to attend any of these games tune in to KTBS 3! We have you covered!!!!  

Just who is Patrick Schuster, you may (or may not) ask? Patrick Schuster is a 6'3" high school senior who happens to be able to sling a baseball left-handed very well.  Actually, the Florida Gators signee has been the model of efficiency of late on the mound. 

Entering today's game, the Mitchell (Fl) Mustangs' pitcher had completed four consecutive no-hitters, two shy of a national high school record.  Unfortunately for Schuster, not only did his no-hitter streak come to an end, so did the Mustangs season as they lost to Gaither (Fl),9-4.  Schuster's bid for a fifth no-no ended when Gaither's Drew Doty doubled in the top of the third, one batter after Schuster had hit a Gaither hitter in the face to lead off the inning.

What makes this a little on the weird side, is the attention devoted to a scruffy-goatee'd kid in Florida.  ESPN broke in with updates; every major sports website featured either/or both preview articles and recaps.  Did I mention he was still TWO NO-HITTER'S AWAY FROM TYING A RECORD!! 

The New York Times flew a reporter in beforehand (in a nice article, that disclosed Schuster lost an older brother to cancer when Patrick was only 11 years old).  The Tampa newspaper devoted column inches to him.  USA Today? Check.  

How about we let a high school kid attempt to do what is most precious to him---help his team win a state title.  Schuster entered the game with an 8-0 record and an ERA of 0.64. Think the pressure got to him? He allowed four earned runs and three hits in five innings.  Plus, his team lost that first round playoff game.

Let's back off, unless it's a significant achievement... I guarantee the rest of the Mustangs would have rather seen their old buddy Patrick give up a couple of runs, maybe three hits in a 4-2 win than deal with the three ring circus that ESPN served as the ringleader.

Weldon Brown, Mr. Personality Himself, is walking with a new swagger these days. The former Bossier Bearkat/Louisiana Tech Bulldog has made a name for himself on this side of the country on the football field and Sunday, he found out his pigskin career is not over yet... in fact, it may have just begun! Weldon has signed a free-agent contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars and is headed to mini-camp this Thursday.

I had the opportunity of interviewing Weldon today, and man is he excited! He has worked so hard to make this dream come true. We talked about his days at Tech, his mentors and coaches he'll continue to call on, the City of Jacksonville- a new challenge for Weldon and, realistically, his chances in the NFL.

I know that I will be pulling for Weldon because, not only is he a hardworker, but he's also a stand-out guy that knows no strangers. Whatever the future holds for Weldon, he'll be successful in life!

It will be interesting to track Kendrick Washington's career.  The Huntington High standout (2008 5A Basketball Player Of The Year) signed a National Letter Of Intent this morning to attend the University of Houston.  What I'm interested in is whether or not Washington makes a name for himself on the hardwood with the Cougars---or----crashes the NFL (seriously) following his collegiate hoops career.

It's been done before---Antonio Gates (San Diego Tight End) and Tony Gonzalez (Chiefs Future Hall Of Fame Tight End) played hoops in college before making football their vocation.  Washington has the kind of talent and size that someone, somewhere in the NFL will covet in three or four years.  He is 6'7", 250 pounds with a maximum bench press of 285 pounds.  He will probably fill out over the next couple of years to around 6'8", 265 pounds or so---with cat-quickness to boot! You don't think that combination of size, speed and agility wouldn't fit the prototype NFL rushing defensive end?

And it's not like Washington is foreign to the game of football. Even though he gave up the sport following his junior season, he was still considered among the top recruits in the state and the region in football according to Scouts, Inc. and Rivals.com.

We wish Kendrick all the best as he tries to resurrect Phi Slama Jama in Cougar-City----but if there's an itch to pick up the pigskin a couple of years from now---here's hoping he can scratch it AND earn some serious scratch.

Get ready for relaxing string music, birds tweeting and sappy sweet descriptions of play by Jim "Splenda" Nantz and Mike "Fructose" Tirico. It's The Masters---the greatest golf tournament year-in and year-out, as well as the most ridiculous tournament year-in and year-out. There is absolutely no greener, vibrant place on God's earth than the 18 splendid holes at Augusta National. Watching some of the greatest golfer's in the world try to calm the baby-oil slick greens is absolutely mesmerizing to me.

But it's the reverent tone the broadcasters exhibit during the four rounds that makes me want Gary McCord, David Feherty and Johnny Miller to take control of the mic's and give us a "Masters" quality broadcast for a change. Tiger, Phil, Retief, Padraig and company are golfers, not priests. They whack the ball around in as few strokes as possible for the right to wear a green jacket. Does that sound like something that needs a C-Span type broadcast? No...

Loosen up Nantzy Pantz... Cut back on the starch, Tirico. You are getting the opportunity to relay to millions of golf fans what it's like to be at Augusta National Golf Club on Easter weekend. Save the worship and hushed tones for the sanctuary, boys.

While I consider the first two days of the NCAA Tournament as spectacular sports days, it's hard to beat this week in April.  Gee whiz... from Major League Baseball's opening day, to tonight's NCAA Men's basketball championship, to Tuesday's Women's hoops title tilt, to The Masters tee'ing off Thursday---it's hard to top this week in early spring as a great sports smorgasbord.  Throw in the weekly NASCAR events, our local professional franchises either winding down (Mudbugs) or starting up (Wings and Captains), and college baseball/softball in the area---and you truly have something for everyone.

As for big, bold brash predictions:

Cubs Win The Series.

Jeff Gordon Will NOT go 47 races until his next win.

UConn's women will finish the season undefeated.

Michigan State shocks the world with an 82-77 win tonight over North Carolina.

The Mudbugs stave off elimination with a 5-2 win in the CenturyTel Center.

There... any arguments?

Louisiana Tech has a major announcement to make tomorrow regarding the Lady Techsters' Hoops program. C'mon, it doesn't take a rocket-scientist to guess they will promote Teresa Weatherspoon from interim head coach to head coach.  She deserves it! I was so impressed with the way she turned the season around and started winning games when she inherited the program mid-season.

A lot of times, when a coaching change is made mid-season it serves as an excuse to right off the rest of the season. Instead, Weatherspoon somehow managed to find a way to make the Lady Techsters play for her. I'm looking forward to the Weatherspoon era. Tune in tomorrow at six for all the details!

If you like nature, like to fish, heck-- if you like to eat fish you have got to stop by Reeves Marine and check out Oliveoil Oliver... the biggest bass I have ever seen.

Adam Oliver caught her (and named her!!!), nearly a 16lb bass on Saturday. The fish is on display at Reeves Marine for fans to come by and take a look. Tune in tonight to KTBS 3 Sports to find out where, how and with what bait Oliveoil was reeled in!

So this is what it's come down to for me.  Tiger Woods has to work on his high five.  That's the only blemish in his game.  After coming back from five shots down on Sunday to vanquish Sean O'Hair (and the rest of the field assembled for the "Half Lemonade/Half Iced Tea Invitational, aka, "The Arnold Palmer Invitatitonal"), Tiger and long-time caddy, Steve Williams celebrated with a long-standing golfing tradition: The wayward high five. 

How many wins does Tiger have on the PGA Tour now? 55? 60? And yet---the hand-to-hand contact on the high-five still eludes him.  It's a pity, really.  For one to be so great at such a difficult task, to fail miserably at such a simple one.  It's like Bill Gates bouncing a check because he forgot to record his car insurance draft in his checkbook.  Martha Stewart burning toast. 

Sadly, I see this malady possibly affecting Tiger's longevity in the game.  Too many misfires on the high-five, with Tiger's hand banging into Steve's forearm; or Steve's hand making solid contact with Tiger's wrist; is going to lead to injury.  

Someone with proper technique, please do all of us golf fans a favor: Teach Tiger and Steve the 1,2,3's of high-fiving.  It would be a tragedy to see a heavenly career come to a crash due to hellish high fives.

Who said the media are fat and lazy? I mean, besides the sports-wife when discussing my physical fitness... Yesterday, in Lexington, Kentucky, a couple of television crews were put through the grueling "perp-chase" obstacle course. Trust me, it's well worth it to watch the entire episode. 

Normally, this test of strength and agility is reserved for news reporters and photographers pursuing a crooked city official or Bernie Madoff-like white collar criminal attempting to make it from the courthouse to their getaway vehicle.  Good for us (sports guys)!! We can do it too!! Granted, the guys chasing deposed Kentucky Wildcats basketball coach, Billy Gillespie look like a pack of blooming idiots---but you can't say we ALL are in bad shape!

"I can run all day with you!" That's what I'm talking about. Granted, the reporter sounded like he was spent after the 40-yard jog---but you try carrying that stick mic and chasing a fired coach.  It's like toting around a sack of cannonballs.  

Late last night, the 2009 NCAA Tournament found it's identity.  After favorites had hit the wire first in nearly every game, the late Friday session provided Cleveland State, Dayton, Wisconsin, Arizona as, "Cinderella stories, about to become, Masters Champion." 

Cleveland State didn't just slip past Wake Forest (4-seed), they absolutely pasted the Demon Deacons, the latest black eye for the powerful Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).  The much ballyhooed league placed seven teams in the tourney but only three remain after the opening round, including LSU's opponent today, North Carolina.   The Big Ten is barely treading water as well heading into round two, with three of their seven tourney teams kicked to the curb.  Wisconsin tipped the scales to + .500 with their overtime victory over Florida State.  

Who expected the class of the tourney to be the Big XII? Six teams invited to the party, six teams still carrying their glowsticks.  I really like Texas to upset Duke this evening here in Greensboro---but I think Oklahoma gets sent packing by Michigan.

In five hours, the Tigers take on North Carolina, a prohibitive favorite.  Trent Johnson may need to consult an astrolgist for this one, because the planets will have to be aligned to deliver victory to LSU. But as the wise philosopher, Harry Christmas said in the classic, Dumb and Dumber: "You're saying there's a chance."  Indeed.  More on the game, later, gators.

Well, one down, five to go.  That's an optimistic approach to LSU's NCAA Tournament play.  Don't let anyone dissuade you; the Tigers win over Butler was a solid victory ove ra very good team.  Butler is the type of team that dictates the flow of the game to their opponent, eventually taking advantage with their deft shooting and opportunistic defense.  Garrett Temple's lockdown of Horizon League Newcomer Of The Year, Gordon Hayward (stat line: 4-10 Shooting; 0 Offensive Rebounds; 2 Turnovers) coupled with the stellar play of Chris Johnson on both ends built a solid platform for the Tigers to grow from. 

Another misconception may be that Johnson "gave up" 22 points to Horizon League MVP, Matt Howard.  Insert buzzer noise here! Howard scored ten of his 22 points at the line and Johnson only sent him to the charity stripe once the entire game (very early in the opening half). Johnson's defensive prowess boosted the 6'11" senior's confidence on the offensive side of the court, leading to a solid 12 points on 4-8 shooting from the floor and crucial free throws in crunch time.

Johnson will certainly need to maintain and possibly elevate his level of play tomorrow when the Tigers meet top-seeded North Carolina here in Greensboro.  Okay, quick side note... LSU fans prepare yourself now to avoid frustration tomorrow.  Despite what you hear, Jim Nantz and Clark Kellogg will not have powder blue pom-pons in their possession when they call the game courtside.  They are also NOT dues paying members of the Tyler Hansbrough fan club (instead, they have a free VIP membership, allegedly and reportedly, wink-wink).  If you DO happen to see either or both of them wearing a, "I Hansbrough" pin---it's probably just a coincidence.  But you should be prepared to hear often just how much heart Hansbrough has; how his effort is greater than the 300 soldiers of Sparta-combined; how he once saved Chuck Norris in a barroom brawl; etc.  If you know what to expect, it will make your viewing (listening, actually) of the game much more tolerable.

I am heading to practice in just a bit... we will have interviews with LSU as well as North Carolina, Texas and Duke coming your way tonight at 6, 9 and 10.  Plus, check back here throughout the day... we'll keep you clued in on what's going on with the Tigers as soon as we find out oursleves.

It's game-day all around the country! The most ineffective day in the workplace is here! Billions of dollars in worker cost will be eaten, devoured by the NCAA Tournament!! Step up to the buffet, procrastinate the Johnson Report, put off that meeting with the Senior V-P of Manila Folders... and gorge yourself on hoops.

Here in Greensboro, North Carolina, the LSU Tigers tip off the whole shibang when they meet Butler at 11:20 a.m.(CDT).  I like the Tigers in this matchup for a few reasons. 

First, the tourney-toughness of Tasmin Mitchell, Garrett Temple and to some degree, Chris Johnson.  The former two played considerable minutes during LSU's Final Four run in 2006 and Johnson was on the squad and logged some valuable playing time.  

Secondly, Trent Johnson has been in this forum with Nevada and Stanford---and guided them to the Sweet Sixteen.  I like Johnson's approach and steeliness in focusing on the task at hand.  It's not a second round matchup with North Carolina. It's a dangerous opponent in the ninth-seeded Butler Bulldogs.  Butler wears down opponents by being extremely patient on offense and LSU has shown a tendence to be a little on the ADD side when it comes to tenaciousness for the full :35 possession.  Johnson will fix that little hiccup.

Thirdly, Marcus Thornton is the most dangerous scorer on the floor.  Yes, Butler has scorers (Gordon Hayward in particular), but no one suiting up today can pour in 12 points quicker than Thornton.

And lastly, Trent Johnson's decision to put lock-down defender Garrett Temple (6'6") on Hayward (6'8"; Horizon League Newcomer Of The Year) should play into the Tigers favor.

My pick: LSU 69, Butler, 63.

The joint was jumping this morning and afternoon.  The rather mundane Greensboro Coliseum was alive with Tar Heels, Blue Devils, Gophers, Tigers, Bulldogs, uh, Binghamptonians... as the eight teams assembled here practiced for the final time before their opening round games on Thursday.

Obviously, due to geography, the Tar Heels and Blue Devils had plenty of fans filling the lower bowl of the arena.  LSU Fans? Maybe they're going to be fashionably on time.  For those that DO make the trip, and the thousands of other purple and gold fans watching at home/restaurant/bar/urologist's table; be prepared.  This Butler team that awaits at 11:20 a.m. is extremely talented.  Watching their shoot-around this morning, the first thing that jumps out at me is their size.  The Screaming Trees didn't feature a lineup this mammoth.  In addition, these Hoosier-Sonnies can flat-out fill it up from the field.  Whether it's Horizon League player of the year, sophomore forward, Matt Howard (6'8", 14 points per game) or 6'8" sharp-shooting freshman, Gordon Hayward, the Tigers will have their hands full. 

Garrett Temple will draw the assignment of slowing down Hayward.  "He's a very tall freshman that can shoot the ball," Temple said.  Hayward also, "Has a lot of basketball skill in that he can dribble the ball, pass the ball.  He's a very mature freshman."

LSU can win the game if Chris Johnson can minimize second chances and easy drives to the hoop.  It wouldn't hurt the Tigers shot at winning if Marcus Thornton re-discovers his shooting touch.  He has the confidence of his teammates, including Tasmin Mitchell, who said of Thornton, "He's one of the greatest scorers I've ever seen.  He's always up for the big shot."

The Tigers and Bulldogs tip off at 11:20 a.m. By 1:30, I have a feeling LSU will be ready for their next game: Saturday against North Carolina.

By the way, the shootaround is one of the niftier aspects of the tournament.  It's the hoops equivalent of batting practice.  Normally, the teams will "show off" a little bit, plus all the t-shirt and jersey purchasers get to see their favorite surrogate kids and coaches go through the final dress rehearsal before the Big Show. 

Can't wait for the curtain-raising tomorrow!

Well, that wasn't so bad was it? Leaving Shreveport at 1pm on Tuesday, I pulled into Greensboro, North Carolina at 5:00 am (eastern time, 4am, Shreveport-time).  Doing a little simple match, that's 15 hours of smooth sailing along I-20, I-85, Aye-Aye-Aye!  Who am I kidding? That's a loooooong haul.  No rest for the weary though.... up and at 'em this morning for the Tim Fletcher Show (shameless plug) after an hour and a half of sleep and what do we have?  Numerous technical glitches!! Kudos to the Sports-Wife and Spoon for battling through the many bugs in the system to keep the show floating along. 

As for my day today in North Carolina... LSU practices this afternoon and meet with the media soon thereafter.  Butler is the first team to hit the practice floor in just about three hours.  Every team assembled here will benefit from what I believe (based on memory of games that I've seen played in Greensboro) will be a consistent shooting background, as opposed to the cavernous atmospheres of Dome Games (Georgia Dome-SEC Tourney comes to mind).  That's one thing I will be paying close attention to: Are the guys shooting the ball well?  In particular, Bo Spencer, Marcus Thornton, Garrett Temple, Tasmin Mitchell.  I will be giving you a preview of tomorrow's game as well as the key matchups tonight at 6, 9 and 10 on KTBS and KPXJ.

One thing I noticed on the way out here---there are more big rigs pulling the double trailers!  It's crazy! Still a ton of eighteen wheelers---but an inordinate amount of 20-wheelers, whipping to and fro up and down the interstate.   And before I forget---is there a more desolate, never-ending stretch of highway than what you find between Monroe and the Mississippi state line?  Geez!! 

Keep checking back here on the web for internet-only pieces from Greensboro!!  A power nap would be sweeet right now---but I'm afraid i wouldn't wake up until Friday.  Shower, shave---and off to the Greensboro Coliseum in about two hours!

The Bassmaster Classic finished up day two...now 25 of the 51 anglers will move on to the final day tomorrow. I have really enjoyed covering the Classic. Every single angler has been so nice, generous with their time and eager to share details of their day fishing.

One surprise of the tournament was Kevin VanDam. He is the 2008 Angler of the Year, and a favorite to win the Classic...but today he missed the cut, finishing 30th, just five spots away from fishing tomorrow!!!!

Tomorrow is of course anybody's day. I am really looking forward to going out on the water in the morning and seeing the anglers in action...and then of course witnessing the weigh-in tomorrow afternoon.

My favorites?! I really like Skeet Reese. He has this aura about him...he's very confident in his ability, but can back it up with experience and he gives great answers during interviews.

I also like Boyd Duckett, the 2007 Bassmaster Classic Champion. I had the opportunity to interview him when he was in town practicing months ago and he took a lot of time explaining the sport to me....it really made me excited for this week. He should write a "Fishing for Dummies" book during the off-season.

I'm really pulling for Dean Rojas. He has been a favorite throughout the week. He is just such a great person with an exceptional personality. He really seems like he loves every second he gets to fish and he was excited his family was here to experience this Classic with him.

And of course, I hoping Aaron Martens does well tomorrow. He has finished 2nd in the Classic three different times....At first I felt sorry for him, but then I realized he is consistant..He made a lot of money three years, instead of just a TON of money one year. He'll get the big "W" sooner or later....

Alright, looking forward to a big day tomorrow out on the Red!

The Bassmaster Classic has officially started. Our KTBS 3 Team was out on the River all morning long checking out the action. We caught up with Kim Bain Moore, Kevin Wirth, Dean Rojas, Alton Jones, Timmy Horton and Aaron Martens to name a few.

It was a lot of fun. We had local guides taking us to various locations where we thought the anglers might be fishing. When we would spot the anglers we would stay a safe distance away (trying not to scare of the fish!) and shoot them in action. We actually witnessed a few of the anglers reeling in some fish!!! There were actually a lot of spectators out watching the anglers....almost like sitting in the stands at a basketball game. It was really neat. It just shows hom much the sport has grown. And, of course, these local anglers want to see where the pros are catching the big fish and what they're fishing with!!!!

So, we are on the way to the weigh-in at the Century Tel Center. This is the exciting part...get to see the results. There is a weigh-in every night and only the top 25 anglers will continue on to Sunday!

Fletch, Chuck and I were out at Festival Plaza downtown today to meet with the Bassmaster Classic Anglers before competition starts tomorrow. The 51 participants, the world's greatest anglers, enjoyed a nice cajun lunch and then took time out of their busy schedules to meet with members of local and national media.

Over the week, I have found myself gaining more and more respect for these fisherman (and one fisherwoman!). The strategy and talent that goes into the sport is unreal. Every single second out there on the water during competition is crucial.

The thing that's most interesting to me is the Lock system. There are a couple of different pools the anglers are allowed to fish, and some of these pools take quite some time to get to. So once they take the time to get to that location, the anglers don't have as much time to fish. You have to go through the lock to fish some areas....so these anglers really have to be precise when they are calculating their time so they get to their fishing spots and back to the weigh-in on time....It's a lot to think about. Some of these anglers are really taking a huge gamble to fish far away....it may pay off in the end, or it may not. If they get to their fishing spots and nothing's biting, they could come back completely empty-handed.

Today, some of the anglers told us that the Red River was unusually clear. I never thought of the Red as clear...so that definitely made me laugh. But they explained that the fish spread out more, the clearer the water. So now, instead of them being able to fish one area and just catch them one after another (because the fish are clumped together), the fish will be more spread out and the fisherman will have to fish more areas. Pretty neat...

Most of the participants are just ready to fish tomorrow. Some seem nervous, others seem like the really do enjoy to fish and they can't wait to be out on the lake for another day at work. It makes you wonder....I mean, I was a collegiate basketball player and I used to love the sport....I still do, but in college it really became a job, which took some of the fun out of it. I wonder if that's the case for these anglers. Sure, at one point they loved to fish, that's why they wanted to make a career out of it. But you gotta wonder if its still fun to them, or just another day's work?!

The Bassmaster Classic anglers will take a few hours away from fishing and preparation for the big event this weekend to enjoy a nice evening of food and fun at the Shreveport Municipal Auditorium. The Anglers and their families will attend an exclusive Red Carpet Event tonight and KTBS 3 will be in on the action.

Join Fletch and I on KPXJ 21 from 6:30 to 7:00 as we interview the anglers on the Red Carpet!!!! You won't want to miss this. We'll talk with the Bassmaster Classic participants about fishing, family and life in general!!! Check it out!

The Bassmaster Classic is underway here in Shreveport-Bossier. The actual competition doesn't begin until the 20th but the anglers, all 51 of them are here on the water practicing.

I'm am absolutely fascinated with all the strategizing that goes into this competition. Fletch had the opportunity to go out with an elite angler today who has competed in 16 different Bassmaster Classics (sitting this one out) and their interview was so interesting. This angler explained all kinds of angles to Fletch, from what bait the fishers will be using to fishing etiquette (how close the competitors can fish to one another!).

One thing I never thought about was the difference in water temperatures and how that effects the fish. (Temperature effecting fishing makes sense, I just never thought about it) Apparently, the warmer it is, the more the fish move around, the more likely you are to catch fish!!! Pretty cool.

 I was also surprised to learn that these competitions are 100% catch and release. I mean, that's great....but after a hard days work (fishing) I think it would be nice to have a fish fry!!! Just kidding. Apparently if you would like to mount the fish that wins the big Competition, these days replicas of the fish can be made....you can't even tell the difference.

So, I'm really enjoying this week and the Bassmasters being here in our own backyards!! Can't wait for the actual event to start!

The  4 Man-2 Bass Tournament hosted by KTBS and Reeves Marine is tomorrow January 24th! This is the first local tournament of the new year....gosh, it's hard to believe its 2009 already!

I hung out with Mike Echols, Tournament Director, yesterday and got the scoop on the tournament. He's expecting 50 to 75 teams. Each team is 4 people, so that's a lot of fisherman. The teams can divide up into smaller groups of two and fish different locations. They are allowed to fish at Cross Lake, Caddo Lake, Lake Bistineau, Toledo Bend, the Red River or Black Lake and they can switch out lakes throughout the day.

Each team can only enter two bass into the weigh-in, and they are only allowed to have two fish in their live well at a time. So they have to "cull" thier fish as they catch them.  I definitely didn't know what that meant before Mike explained it to me yesterday.

I think it is so cool to hear all of the strategies involved. Some of the fishers practice for weeks up to the event and scout all the different locations. It's also interesting to take into account the distance of the lakes to the weigh-in location: Reeves Marine. If you want to fish on the Red River...you could stay on the lake until 30 minutes before weigh-in, whereas if you chose to fish at say Black Lake..you'd really have to factor in time and esentially have less time to fish!

Regardless, I am pumped for the weigh-in show. Tim Fletcher and I will be out there to assist Mike Echols at Reeves Marine Saturday at 4:00! Come on out and get in on the action!

How did the Philadelphia Eagles beat the top seed New York Giants on the road in the Meadowlands on Sunday in the NFC Divisional Round?  Better defense?  Eli struggling?  How about nicer beard.

For that last few months, the Eagles have been growing beards (it's very evident in head coach Andy Reid and Defensive Coordinator Jim Johnson).  The beard's aren't coming off until the season is over.

So of course, I'm sticking to my roots.  For those of you like my beard, enjoy!  For those of you who don't, your stuck with it until the Eagles are eliminated.....

Enjoy championship weekend everyone! (who would of thought that Arizona at 9-7 would host the title game!!!)

- Rob

Who truly deserves to be the national champion of college football this season? The winner of Thursday's Florida-Oklahoma BCS Championship game will get the Sears & Roebuck crystal football.   "Keep all Craftsman tools away from the trophy, kids!" The cleaning instructions (don't) actually include: "Crystal Football is cleanest when washed in a Kenmore Dishwasher".  They should have Ty Pennington hand over the hardware, of course, after they... "Move That Bus!!" 

And, once the dust settles from all of the hoopla in Miami late Thursday night, the 61 Coaches (and/or their Sports Information Directors) will cast their ballots for the final Top 25 USA Today/Coaches Poll.  The BCS stipulates the coaches only need to vote for number's 2-24 in the final poll, since the winner of the BCS Championship is the default #1. No questions about it.  Mack Brown has vowed to buck the system and vote his Longhorns into the top spot, no matter what transpires in the tropics.  But he's just one man... granted, one man who can remember the name of every single person he comes in contact with---but still, one man--one vote.  The BCS Champion will indeed be the victor Thursday night. 

For once in their lives, the 72  Writers/Broadcasters who vote in the AP Poll can disrupt something other than a pre-game, pressbox buffet.   These astute (ha!) observers of the sacred game of college football can do us playoff-wanting fans a huge favor.  Vote for Utah as the #1 team in the land.  Please.  Do I firmly believe the eleven Utes are the best squad to take the field this season? Nope.  Probably not.  But they have done something no other team has done this season and that's knock down every pin placed before them.  13 up, 13 down.  Included among that baker's dozen are five ranked teams, namely fourth-ranked Alabama in the SEC's personal playground: The Sugar Bowl.  

National scribes, John Feinstein and Rick Reilly are doing their part---urging those with the power of the pen to vote Utah number one.   Our own Moutain West Conference loving hack at the station has fired off a personal e-mail to every, single AP Voter, asking them to send the BCS Conference presidents and Conference commissioners the journalistic version of an extended digit.  So far, his three replies include two possible votes for Utah and one guy who said, "Can't we at least wait and see what happens Thursday night?"  

We can... but why put off until tomorrow what you in good conscience can do today.  Utah number one.  Texas number two.  OU-Florida winner number three and Southern Cal number four.  The only thing better would be those same four teams gearing up for their respective semi-final matchups this weekend and a legitimate championship game the following Saturday.  

The Mudbugs were back in action yesterday at the Century-Tel Center after a 3-game roadswing, including a 6-0 loss in Mississippi on New Years Eve.

The Mudbugs took on the Odessa Jackalopes. Odessa came into the match-up as the number one team in the Southern Conference and have the two leading scorers in the league on their roster. But the Mudbugs came into the game with mental toughness...either they didn't know about Odessa's stats...or they didn't care. The first period was full of fights and talented defense and then the Mudbugs took control. They pulled out the 5-2 win in the only regular-season match-up between the two teams. Perhaps they will meet again in the post-season...

 Tonight the Bugs will face the Arizona Sundogs...and the reigning CHL champions. I think, once again, the Mudbugs don't care who they are playing...I think in the back of their mind they remember how they felt last Wednesday night after the RiverKings dominated them..and they don't want to feel that way again. I believe this is the turning point in the season for the Mudbugs! What are your thoughts?

The Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and the Huskies of Northern Illinios have settled in in Shreveport! The Bulldogs have gotten in two practices at Independence Stadium and, due to weather conditions in DeKalb, the Huskies have had three practice sessions.

But its a bowl game...not just an extra game, but a reward for a successful season. So, of course the main event of the week is the football game, but there are a lot of festivities involved for the team during the week. Last night the teams had welcome parties at the Louisiana boardwalk entailing a cajun cuisine and bowling! The players looked like they really enjoyed themselves and it was really interesting to watch them in action...their real personalities definitely came out and the competitiveness!!!!! These guys really took bowling seriously!

Today both teams came together at the Minuteman Luncheon and enjoyed great food and ESPN entertainment, followed by tours of Barksdale Airforce Base. The teams are also visiting LSU hospital tomorrow!

So with all these events, designed so the teams will enjoy their time in Shreveport, are the players distracted? Are the players able to separate business from pleasure?  Today the aura with the team seemed to be complete focus on football. Coach Derek Dooley remarked, "You've matured as a program and as a player when you can manage those things and not lose your focus on the game so that's my biggest concern going into Sunday night."

Northern Illinios linebacker Josh Allen said, "Once tomorrow hits its time to lock it up and get focused." So what do you think? Do you think fun is the number one priority for players during bowl week? Do you think it is hard for these young, college men to focus on football with all these events going on simultaneously? We want to hear your opinions!

There's still plenty of I-Bowl fun in store for fans. We will have live video streaming of the pep rally on ktbs.com tomorrow. Keyword is BOWL. Fans can also upload photos through ktbs.com....keyword, once again is BOWL. And be sure to check out our Independence Pregame Show, Sunday at 5:00 on KTBS 3!

It's official, football in Texas Stadium is no more.  Whether or not the Cowboys make the playoffs, they can not host a home playoff game (if the Cowboys clinch next week in Philly they will get the 6 seed).

The Cowboys dissappointed us all by losing the final game ever in Texas Stadium on Saturday night to the Baltimore Ravens.  However, not all was sad for Arklatex natives and the ending history of Texas Stadium.  The Carthage Bulldogs won the Class 3A - Division II state title in this venue on Friday night.  It was probably one the top two high school performances I've seen in my life.

Carthage tailback Dwight Smight ran for over 270 yards and scored 5 times.  This by far was awesome to watch first hand, and you know the football Gods played a part in this one.  How can you not have a final game in Texas Stadium and not have the hero be a running back wearing number 22 and have the last name Smith? 

It's a shame the Cowboys lost it's final game in that venue, and I'm shocked that my most memorable moment in Texas Stadium doesn't involve the Cowboys.  But I do have a top five list, what is yours?

Top 5 Texas Stadium Memories (either on tv or in person):

1) Dwight Smith's 272 rushing yards and 5 TD's

2) Eagles-Cowboys 2008 Monday Night Game

3) Leon Lett 1993 Thanksgiving Blunder

4) 1989 Eagles-Cowboys Thanksgiving (Bounty Bowl)

5) 1996 Eagles-Cowboys, Aikman is picked on last play of game in endzone

Honorable Mention: T.O. and the "Star" with the 49ers.

(note: remember I grew up near Philadelphia)

What are your favorite memories?

- Rob

For the first time since 1991, the Carthage Bulldogs are in the football state championship game! This time, the bulldogs hope to make the best of the situation and bring home the gold.

The Bulldogs have had, well to be honest, not a very challenging ride through the play-offs. They knocked off Tatum, Larina, Rockdale and Giddings pretty soundly and had a little trouble with Gilmer. Carthage has definitely made a name for themselves in Class 3-A, Division II this year! Coach Surratt, who by the way is only in his second year as head coach at Carthage, says this team is so successful because they have great heart and exceptional leadership. He says his players are just great kids and he and his coaching staff have fun every day.

 Another cool thing the championship game tomorrow is that it is at Texas Stadium....yes, the Texas Stadium that will, more than likely, be torn down since the Dallas Cowboys are moving to Arlington next season. So, the Carthage Bulldogs may be the LAST high school football team to every play at that arena. How cool if they win State!!!! Just one more element to make the day even more special for the Bulldogs.

 Now, I had the opportunity to interview Coach Surratt the other day. It was such a great atmosphere driving through Carthage on the way to the high school. There were good luck messages on business signs throughout the town. You could just feel the support!!!!! Everyone in town is excited about tomorrow and is really pulling for the dawgs!!!!

I am actually on my way out to Carthage this afternoon. There is a community pep rally and we're going to check out the action! If you get a chance, put on some red and white and head that way!! We'd love to see you. Don't forget, Longview and Daingerfield are also in the State Championships this weekend. We'll have you covered with all the highlights this weekend!!!!

 Who are you pulling for? Do you have predictions on the games? Let us know your thoughts!

So we have three East Texas Teams alive from our viewing area playing for a state title this weekend.  Here is a quick breakdown:

Longview will play Lake Travis in the Class 4A-Division I championship on Saturday at 2pm at Floyd Casey Stadium in Waco, Texas.  The Lobo's will try to get it's third ever state title and it's first in 71 years.

Carthage will take on Celina on Friday night at 8:00 in Texas Stadium.  The Bulldogs have never won a state championship in school history, and speaking of history, this looks like it will be the last ever high school football game in the long storied history of Texas Stadium.

Daingerfield makes it's 6th trip to the state title game on Saturday when the Tigers take on Cisco at 3pm at Waco I.S.D. stadium in Waco, Texas.  The Tigers will try to win state title number four.  The school previously won titles back in 1968, 1983, and 1985.  Daingerfield's last trip to the state championship was a loss back in 1998.

Enjoy the games this week, and go Lobo's, Bulldogs, and Tigers!

- Rob

We are still moving and grooving toward the Crescent City.  As Earthlink barrels into Baton Rouge, we may as well talk turkey.  Who's going to win this Evangel-John Curtis game? 

It seems to me the Eagles have speed necessary in both their offensive and defensive backfields to prevent Curtis from hitting on their 7th and 8th cylinders. 

If you've seen the Patriots play, you know how they operate.  Two yards off tackle left.  Three yards off tackle right.  They sucker a defense to stack the line of scrimmage and eventually pound the middle of the defense until it weakens just enough  Even if Curtis can punch an opening into the Eagles' front four, the Eagles' linebackers and secondary are athletic enough to prevent big, hurtful plays. 

Click on "comments" and weigh in.

Almost time for kickoff!!  This is going to be great!

From Tim Fletcher

The Saints already supermodel-thin playoff chances will slim down to non-existent with a loss Thursday night in Chicago.  Sure, it would be nice for the Saints to pile up rushing yards by the BUSHel basket-full (pun intended!) but I think this one comes down to Drew Brees.  On the road this season, Brees has  guided New Orleans to a 1-5 record while throwing more interceptions (10) than touchdowns (7).  At home, it's all comfy and cozy---six wins, one loss (the London "home" game counted) and a whopping 16:4 Touchdown/Interception ratio. 

So what in the world transpires Brees from The Dude to The Dud when he leaves the Superdome in his rearview mirror?  I'm no Freud or Dr. Phil---and there is little time left for psychobabble to save the Saints---so Drew better buck up and fly the pigskin right Thursday night... or the Saints playoff chances will disappear off the catwalk.

This past athlete of the week, Jackson Kennedy, was one of the toughest, and funnest stories I ever had to do.

Tough, because of the topic and the sensitivity of cancer.  Fun, because Jackson was the funnest interview I ever had, and made my job easier.

Check out the story on our Athlete of the Week page, here is what his mother, Lindsey, posted on his web site following the story last night:

Well I am officially the proudest momma alive! Jackson was the best Athlete of the Week ever (that is my opinion)!

Jackson watched his own interview in my bedroom alone...he was embarrassed and not sure how to act, so he watched it all by himself, while Momma, Mark and I watched the interview in the living room...box of kleenex included. Greer missed her television debut, but I have it recorded and will show it to her later...I am sure that she will giggle at herself, she is always so entertained by her own antics....it is too funny. After the story aired, I went into my bedroom to check on Jackson and he was grinning from ear to ear, he hugged me tightly and told me that he loves me....wow! It really made me realize how incredibly lucky I am that God chose me to give this person life and how trusted I am to be the one to care for him and his special needs everyday of his life. I do not feel that it is ever by accident that these Cancer Warriors have amazing parents willing to go to the ends of the Earth to see that every need is met, without hesitation. Tonight I am proud, honored and gracious that it was me that the Lord chose to mother an angel on Earth.

For those wondering whether or not Derek Dooley would be exiting Louisiana Tech for the Mississippi State (or any other) gig, perhaps the following statement will allow Tech fans to sleep a little easier tonight:

"There has been speculation that I am entertaining other head coaching jobs. I have not been interviewed or contacted by   anyone at another university, and I have no intentions of leaving Louisiana Tech. My family and I are very happy in Ruston, and we look forward to continuing to build on the success that our program has achieved in a short time."---Derek Dooley, Louisiana Tech Head Coach/Athletic Director

For those wondering whether or not Derek Dooley would leave Louisiana Tech for Mississippi State... perhaps the following statement released today by Tech will make Bulldogs fans sleep a little easier tonight:

“There has been speculation that I am entertaining other head coaching jobs. I have not been interviewed or contacted by anyone at another university, and I have no intentions of leaving Louisiana Tech. My family and I are very happy in Ruston, and we look forward to continuing to build on the success that our program has achieved in a short time.” -- Derek Dooley, Louisiana Tech Head Coach/Athletic Director

So, as you know,  last night a station in Tennessee reported that Louisiana Tech Head Football Coach (and Athletic Director) Derek Dooley would be the new Mississippi State coach. Essentially...leaving the bulldogs to be a bulldog in the SEC!!!

Of course, Dooley told our own Tim Fletcher he has not been in contact with MSU. I don't know what to think about this! Dooley has made huge improvements at Louisiana Tech in a very short amount of time...improvements to the lockeroom, added a new field, cleaned up the stadium, added new on-campus housing, building a new intramural facility. Louisiana Tech football has also seen huge progress in recruiting, their record has been better, the team seems to have a new-found winning mentality and Dooley has worked hard to add tradition to the program.

 I think if Coach Dooley were to leave now, I think it would really hit the players hard and the improvements would come to a standstill. It would be extremely hard to hire two new people (a head football coach and athletic director) who could compromise and continue Dooley's vision...Dooley's dad is Vince Dooley..the legendary coach of the University of Georgia, who is now athletic director at UGA. So Coach Derek Dooley has grown up around a successful program. He knows what it takes to win and improve and I think he is well on his way to putting Louisiana Tech on the map.

 The question is...will he put in the time at Tech to raise the program to that level? Do you think he is looking to make a home in Ruston...elevate the program and coach there for twenty years? Or do you think Derek Dooley is using Tech as a stepping stone? Let me know your thoughts!

 Personally, I think Coach Dooley is SEC material. Check out his resume....SMU, LSU and a stint in the NFL. He's paid his dues! And if I'm not mistaken his father only coached at Auburn before his big career gig at UGA. What do you think? Tell me your thoughts?!

It appears Louisiana Tech will be bowling in Shreveport on December 28th.  Hope the alley has a lot of size 14 and 15 shoes.  Some of those Bulldogs are rather robust!  On a scale of 1-10, the chance Tech will play in the 33rd rendition of the Independence Bowl is at about a 6.5 or 7.   It's also apparent the Sun Belt (and the accompanying Sun Shoes and Sun Purse) will NOT be sending a team our way.  Instead, look for an ACC (NC State or Clemson) or Conference USA (Memphis or Southern Miss) team to fill the other side of the bill.  What do you think of:

Louisiana Tech vs. Southern Miss

       "                vs.  Memphis

       "                vs.  NC State, or

       "                vs.  Clemson ??

Sounds sell-able to me...

Over the weekend, WREG-TV in Memphis, Tennessee reported that Mississippi State will be naming Derek Dooley its next head coach.

Coach Dooley told Fletch that State has never contacted him.  So as of now, it looks like Dooley is staying put.  But what do you think?  Do you feel like Coach Dooley may get some "better job offers"?  Do you think we've seen the last of him coaching at Louisiana Tech?

Share us your thoughts...

- Rob

Scott Stoker left everything he had on the football field when he led the Demons as an undersized, heady quarterback.  For his efforts as a player, Stoker was named to the NSU Hall of Fame.  That was then, this is now. 

This isn't a GM layoff of hundreds, or CitiGroup cutting thousands of employees loose.  However, with the dismissal of Stoker as the Demons head coach after seven seasons, there are families who will be greatly affected by the dismantling of the coaching staff in Natchitoches. 

I wouldn't fret too much about Stoker, though---his services will more than likely be in demand by a larger university as a coordinator before the calendar flips over to 2009.   From what I understand, Ed Orgeron wanted Stoker to join him at Ole Miss a few years ago.  The contacts Stoker has in the coaching community will leave him unemployed for a rather short period of time.  There is hope, in this tumultuous economic climate, that Stoker's staff (if any are let go as part of Stoker's ouster---as of right now, I have heard nothing of other changes on the staff. I am assuming there will be other changes, though) will quickly find employment as well.

Is this the right move for the Demons at this time? Over the past two seasons, it's been incredible the number of injuries Stoker and his staff have had to coach around.  This season, for example, as the Demons put toe to pigskin in their season finale against SFA, they had a total of five offensive linemen.  Not on the field at once, that's normal.  I'm talking about healthy enough to make the trip to Nacogdoches!  Yet, the Demons, with a glimmer of Southland Conference Title and post-season hopes still in existence, turned in a gutsy, Chief Caddo winning performance.  This year's injury situation was a common cold compared to last year's Bubonic Plague that swept through Demon-Land.  In a couple of games, NSU leaned on their 5th string quarterback, 3rd team running back, and squadmen along the trenches to take the field against McNeese State and SFA.  

There were examples in recent seasons that the Demons didn't perform up to their potential.  However, those situations were less frequent than the squad gutting it out, leaving all they had on the field---much like their head coach did as the Demons quarterback 25 years ago.

So I listened to the Donovan McNabb press conference today LIVE on the web.

Now by now, everyone knows McNabb stated after Sunday's 13-13 tie with the Bengals that he had no idea that NFL has games that finish in tie's.

McNabb was told a tie has been in effect since the 1970's, and almost put his foot in his mouth again today by saying he knew the NFL had tie's, but thought now-a-days at tie game after overtime added another time-shorten period and then there would be a tie.  Huh?

Anyway, that is that, McNabb didn't know the rule, plain and straight and basically after the 1970's rule talk, admitted that he didn't know the rule, he knows now.  He claimed, and I agree with, that not everyone else in the league knows.

"100-percent everyone in the league knows now, if I am a trend setter, I kind of set the trend."

So yes, now everyone knows, and I actually agree with McNabb in what he was trying to say.  Not all the players know the rules in the league.  Even the simple one's us fans and media peeps know by hard.  I mean from a simplistics stand-point, how many times have you seen teams run on a third and long with under a minute, or pass deep on 4th and 1 with a guy like Deuce McAllister in the backfield?  I know, coaches and players do not see all situations all the time, and they don't know the rules, can't blame them, there is a lot going on all at once.

McNabb also made a great point in saying how even officials these days don't know the game in and out.  Think about it, other than this McNabb "overblown fiasco," haven't we seen in the last month numerous stories on Sportscenter about referee's missing the call.

It's kind of a double-edge sword here... not everyone know's the rules.  But let's just hope, next time on 4th and 1, and you and the rest of the fan nation knows you can get a TD or first down with a run and not a pass, your team does what you know is right and not go long!!!

Dustin Pedroia, the 2nd baseman of the Boston Red Sox, and Albert Puljos, the 1st baseman of the St. Louis Cardinals, won the AL and NL MVP's (respectively) this week.

How and why?

Pedroia led the AL in hits, runs and doubles.  17 homers, 83 RBI, 20 stolen bases and a gold glove.  Ok, not bad.  His Red Sox made it to game seven of the ALCS but lost to the Rays.  He's also the first second baseman in the Junior Circuit to win the award since Nellie Fox in 1959. Ok, not bad.

Then there's Albert, his team didn't even make the post-season, and his numbers (for him) weren't the best.  His average was good, I'll give him that (.357), 37 homers and 116 RBI.  His Cards finished in fourth place, making him the lowest spot in the standings for a MVP winner since "The Hawk," Andre Dawson won it in 1987.

Ryan Howard by the way, 48 homers, 146, yes 146 RBI.  His Phillies won the World Series.

But I actually think two closers deserve the MVP honors.  Francisco Rodriguez of the Angels, a record setting 77 saves this season and his Los Angeles team had the best record in baseball this season (many thanks to him).

Brad Lidge of the Phillies should of gotten it in the NL.  An era of 1.95, 41 saves, and did not blow a save all season.  The Phillies got a lot of victories having to come back late in games this year, and if Lidge wasn't around, it be hard to argue the Phillies would of made it as far as they did.

Sorry baseball voters, you messed this one up.  Lidge, Rodriguez, your Brennan Baseball MVP's of 2008.

Today Captain Shreve Head Football Coach Ken Ivy let us know he is 99% sure he will retire.....after over 45 years of coaching.

First of all, I have to reflect on how long he has been in the profession....that's pretty much twice my lifetime....and I feel like I've been around a long time...so he definitely deserves a break!

But on a more serious note, he has touched so many lives....Rob and I took phone calls on Sports Line 3 tonight and there were a lot of people who called to share their Coach Ivy stories. They were all great and I'm sure there would have been a hundred more if our show was longer than half an hour. Even our own Sherri Talley was coached...and inspired...by Coach as a young swimmer. I wonder how many sports he has actually been a part of?

 And I've only had the pleasure of knowing Ken Ivy as Coach...I can only imagine him in the classroom. Before he formerly retires I will have to sneak into a class and check him out in action!

Coach was actually my very first interview as a full-time employee at KTBS! What a character...I was a little nervous....but he made me feel so comfortable! I love (and appreciate) his kindness. He always makes me feel special...and he always holds my mic when I'm interviewing him...one less thing to juggle is always a plus!!!! I hope to see him around high school football for many years to come...and I don't think the Gators will be the same without him...at least not to me!!!

 What do you think? Please share your "Coach Ivy" stories with us!!!!

Louisiana Tech became bowl eligible over the weekend.  The Dooley Dawgs have a 6-4 record and now await a possible bowl bid. What bowl do you think they will go to? Share us your thoughts.

- Rob

It's the most wonderful time... of the year!  The high school playoffs have arrived and we are geared up and ready to bring you all the action!! Sounds like a promo!

Seriously, this could be a year where several teams make deep post-season runs... looking for surprise teams early, though? How about Jefferson in east Texas? The Bulldogs had to forfeit four wins a couple of weeks ago and slipped into the post-season despite a 2-8 record.  

In north Louisiana, I like #22 seed Loyola to bring back a win over eleventh-seeded Sterlington.  Give me Anthony McMaster chunking the onion and John Montgomery running the pumpkin in a 42-36 upset in the opening round. 

Of course, in the end, it's all about championships.  I think Nashville brings home hardware in Arkansas.  Longview in Texas' 4A... and Maud in 1A.  Gilmer might make a run in 3A as well.  In Louisiana, I think Evangel makes it to the Dome... and I truly believe Benton has a great chance to square off against Bastrop for the 4A Championship.  Byrd should beat Airline in round one---setting up a potential Byrd-Ouachita rematch in Monroe in round two. If the Jackets get past the Lions, I think Byrd can take West Monroe and get to the Final Four... from there, it's anybody's guess.

If you've got any predictions and/or prognostications, leave 'em behind... 

Well, well, well. How interesting is this.  With LSU hosting Troy Saturday night, the Tigers tussle with the Trojans is actually the THIRD most important game in the state that day.  Louisiana Tech hosts Utah State in a game that would leave the Bulldogs bowl-eligible with a win.   The Aggies come into the game 2-8 overall and are next-to-last in the WAC in Total Offense as well as Total Defense.  Tech hasn't lost at home in four outings this season, including bookend triumphs over Mississippi State and Fresno State.  Sounds like a walk-through-park, huh? Hold on just a sec... Utah State DID knock off Hawai'i two weeks ago, 30-14... AND the Warriors DID beat Tech a month ago.  Still, it's a huge game for Derek Dooley's Dogs and should have the Tech faithful fired up.

Down in Natchitoches, NSU faces old nemesis, McNeese State in what turns out to be a Southland Conference playoff game.  If the Demons win their remaining two games (at SFA next Saturday 11/22), they will be crowned SLC Champs and earn the league's automatic bid to the playoffs.  They can lose to McNeese and still win a share of the title, but their clearest path is to just win and win again.  

LSU? They should be able to trounce Troy even if Jarrett Lee throws two pick six's.  The only drama I can foresee is finding out if Jordan Jefferson can compete and lead at the Football Bowl Subdivision level.  

Do LSU fans feel this football season should be sent to an island somewhere between Los Angeles and Australia? Perhaps one where large inground silo's are located along with a group of scientists? In other words, is this a "Lost" season for the Tigers?

What to do if your Les Miles... Play Jarrett Lee every snap of the way for the rest of the season? Insert Jordan Jefferson into the mix? And how bad is Jordan Jefferson if he can't make it to the playing field after Lee throws yet another pick six? 

How much blame falls on Gary Crowton's (offensive coordinator) headset? What happened to the old adage of tailoring your game plan to fit your personnel? Trust me, the plays that Jarrett Lee is being asked to make, he obviously can't master.  

 Will LSU finish 9-3? 8-4? Heavens to Murgatroid, 7-5? 

"I must have taken a wrong turn in Albuquerque."  Bugs Bunny, a comedic hero of mine, uttered those words on more than one occasion when he popped out of his rabbit hole in a location that was far from his original target.  A dude in North Carolina can now lay claim to the worst and best example of what to do when making a wrong turn.

Which reminds me... a few years ago, when covering The Masters in Augusta, Georgia, I had a routine (since I'm far from a walking-talking GPS): Hotel, Golf Course, Augusta ABC Affilliate, Restaurant, Hotel.  On the FIFTH day in Augusta, I was on the way to the course from the hotel and drove into.... South Carolina! Perplexed, I called my buddy at the TV Station who (after guffawing) explained in detail how to get back into Georgia and on the way to Augusta National.  Great! Unfortunately, I made ANOTHER wrong turn and drove into a DIFFERENT part of South Carolina.  D'oh!! And like the Wrong-Way Feldman above, I too went home medal-less.

So... who do YOU think will win the Alabama-LSU game, Saturday??  If Alabama is able to impose their will (run the ball; stop the run; force Jarrett Lee to determine the game), the Crimson Tide will exit Baton Rouge with their top-rank and unbeaten mark unscathed.  HOWEVAH... if the Tigers can make John Sarah Jessica Parker Wilson uncomfortable in the pocket; create turnovers; get Chuck The Truck rolling downhill; and bring something unexpected/polished/successful to the table (how about Brandon LaFell engineering the Wildcat Formation?)---LSU will win. 

Got any predictions? Leave 'em---if you are the closest to the final score, there's a coffee mug, or cap, or something in it for you!

Cheerleaders Popcorn Muscled Out Of Job

When an NFL Cheerleader get
fired for the old, "Dude passed out
with anti-Semitic and crude drawings
on his body as a Halloween costume
and I just happened to pop into the
picture," then, my friend: It's time
for Roger Goodell to step in.


Natchitoches Central grad, Joe Dumars pulled a blockbuster trade a few days ago, bringing Allen Iverson to the Motor City in exchange for the English-Schoolboy-Named Chauncy Billups and Antonio McDyess. Who knew that Dumars and A.I. would form a comedy troupe to rival the Kings Of Comedy.

Denver Broncos wide receiver,
Brandon Marshall has come up
with a new fitness term,
'popcorn muscles.' Hey, I have
pork-chop gravy abs! Look at my
milkdud thighs! Joey Porter,
he of the 'taking off shirt and
dancing like a girl,'
set, fires back at B.M. hee hee...

Looking for some interesting reaction from the sports world to Senator Obama's election? Gander no further than Michael Irvin, of course.

The new President has called for the abolishment of the BCS, saying he wants an 8-team playoff format to determine a college football champion. Pete Carroll and Bob Stoops approve of this message.

Let us thank off the bat for New Boston Assistant Coach, Tim Denton for writing out this scenario for District 16-3A.

I'm sure many of you have seen this, heck, you may have seen this when watching the LSU-Carolina game Saturday night.

Late in the first half, referee Wilbur Hackett, Jr. lays an elbow on Gamecock freshman quarterback Stephen Garcia.

Hackett by the way was a linebacker at Kentucky from 1967-70. He's been a SEC official for 10 years.

Now Les Miles joked about this on Monday, hinting that Hackett could of had better "mechanics" on the tackle (the hit of course favored LSU, wonder how Miles would of reacted if this hit was made on Andrew Hatch?)

In Hackett's defense, I agree with the SEC saying he was in a good position, and if you look carefully at the video, Garcia does make a "stutter cut" if you will in the direction of Hackett, I think it was just natural reaction of Hackett being prepared for impact.

Should he be fired, no. Should it be investigated, yes. If it's found that Hackett has some money on this game or has a history of gambling, then it's an open-shut case, and the SEC should dismiss him.

If none of that is found, and he wasn't orginally embracing for impact, then let's rack this one to an old fashion "flashback" of Hackett getting caught up in the moment.  If this is the first and only instance of this ever happening to Hackett, then let's move on...

One thing we always forget in situations like this, Hackett is human just like the rest of us.  

Click here to watch the hit

- Rob

Is it Martin GramaticaCK (the noise one makes when Gramatica unloads an errant kick in crunch time)?  Is it Sean Payton turning into the Newt Gingrich of play-calling with the game on the line (ultra-conservative)? Is it the nimrods drawing penalty, after penalty, after penalty?  Is it Ed Hochuli's crew, who blew a pair of calls that would/could have made a difference in the Saints favor?

Payton is my first choice, since a more aggressive approach in the final 3:00 of the game might have ended with the Saints in the end zone or at least pushing GramaticaCK into chip-shot range (even for him).

 So... what cha' think?

Hey everyone, what a game in Big-D between the Eagles and Cowboys on Monday Night in Texas Stadium.

I was lucky to get a ticket and go as a fan, so enough blogging (words are over-rated)...enjoy my video blog at the game!

Watch Rob's Trip To Dallas!!!!

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) issued this release today:

The LHSAA is proud to announce a new partnership with Nike. LHSAA member schools will benefit greatly from this partnership as Nike Team Dealers across Louisiana will offer a 35% discount off the retail cost of apparel, footwear and equipment. The discount will apply to LHSAA member schools only.

It's a great deal for the schools... AND... a nifty hook into more high school guys and gals shoe closet for Nike! It's a win-win deal! 

I'm all for athletes getting their equipment taken care of, or purchased at reduced rates---why am I so leery of the Oregon conglomerate's "charitable" endeavor in Louisiana?

The "Super Bowl" of bass fishing is just six months away ... and local leaders are getting excited about it.

 Yesterday the Red River Water Commission hosted a reception at the University Club.

 They discussed the 2009 Bassmaster Classic Tournament coming to Shreveport/Bossier.

 The event is expected to reel-in nearly 24-million-dollars to the local economy.

 The Bassmaster Classic will be held February 20 through the 22nd.

Yes, it's only the preseason. Yes, it's only Arizona. But Saints fans are probably one notch below giddy after New Orleans destroyed the Cardinals tonight, 24-10. Reggie had 30 yards of electric yardage nullified by penalties; Brees was near perfect while leading the Saints to a touchdown on their opening drive; and Robert Meachem delivered on the potential the Saints drafted last year with a hilite-reel, 60 yard catch and run touchdown to cap the scoring.

The defense looked "okay" against Arizona's first-team offense... however, it's hard to complain about ten points on the board in game one.

Overall, I'll give the Saints a B-. Keep it up and I smell the honor roll in New Orleans' future.

Well, not only did Saturday's outstanding performance by Chavis McCollister stir up the BattleWing fan base and local media.  The BattleWing made ESPN's Sportscenter Top 10 Plays on Sunday night. 

(Courtesy of KTBS of course)

Chavis made the national newscast thanks to his unbelivable feet of returning three straight kick-off's for a touchdown in the first half as the BattleWings defeated the Lubbock Renegades 77-61 in the af2 playoffs.

Chavis was top play #3 (of course), as ESPN showed all three of his kickoff returns.

As for the TV end of this, I believe this is the first time our photographer Chuck Carroll had some of his work hit the national circuit.  Way to go Blue!!

- Rob

Well...the coaches ranking are out for the pre-season.  And looky who is #1, Mark Richt and the Georgia Bulldogs. 

You think this team has a chip on their shoulder?  This is the same team that wined and complained that they should of been in last year's BCS National Title game (without winning the SEC Title mind you.)

Ok, Georgia is stacked, I ain't going to lie.  They have a running back, a defense, and a above average quarterback that should cause a lot of damage this season.  

But in the imperfect world of college football, how funny would it be if Mark Richt made a deal with the guy downstairs?  To me, Richt is so upset at the College Football Gods for 2007 that he'll expect a perfect, heck, a flawless season from Georgia to show the world you don't mess with the "DAWGS!!!"

If he wins in death valley this season and beats Florida by more than 30 points, than we might have to think about this actually being a reality.

- Rob 

Now how is this for a concert road tour. Les Miles and Snoop Dogg. Well on Tuesday, we saw a portion of that reality if that were to ever come true.

Les Miles and Snoop seemed to get along great and Les even tried to bust out a few lines from Snoops songs.

(And no, Miles did not have blood shot eyes or a sudden growth of hunger)

Miles got some tips on how to be "fo' shizzle my nizzle" from his son Ben. I can only imagine the poor kids face when pop was up on the podium bustin' out rhymes with Snoop Dogg standing right next to him. That's something my Mom would do. We all have those relatives that will take that step and embarrass you, whether it's on purpose or not.

Take a look at Les and Snoop on our homepage.

This showed me yet again, that Les Miles is a one of the best "people" persons out there. He does his best to relate to anybody in any situation, and reacts for the better of the community (good or bad.) Whether it's trying to impress his son with a famous rap star, reacting to a troubled quarterback who just doesn't seem to get it, snapping at the world when a media network says he's going to Michigan, or even telling the media with a smirk that the final touchdown in the Auburn game was exactly how he planned it.

Les Miles has the charma folks, and it showed again Tuesday night.

Randon thought before I close, funny how society embraces a man who raps and admits daily that he smokes weed. It doesn't make sense, perhaps I'm guilty too of embracing Snoop Dogg, he's pretty darn funny!!!

- Rob 

You notice alot of people scratching and being real figidy lately? Yup, it's the notorious football itch. If you're like me, you are suffering very badly from it and not even the best calamine lotion can cure this irritation.

The football Gods are smart in giving us a 6-7 month layoff. If football was year around, sure, there might be some that fall off the wagon from burnout. But I'm finding myself watching old replay of NFL games on a certain cable station. It's kind of like when you were a kid, and you watched numerous christmas cartoons (Charlie Brown, Garfield, Rudolph, Frosty, the Muppets, etc) for three weeks while stuffing your face with candy canes and christmas cookies until Santa came down that pipe. Afterall, you got to get ready for the big day. It's embarrising if you don't have the aquired tasted for egg nog by Christmas day.

Well, we're at the point. Grambling, LSU, Louisiana Tech, all reporting and starting practice in the next week. The NFL has already started practicing, which means football season spirit is in the air. So hence, I'm glued to watching old games and even doing some tailgate activities every now and then with neighbors just to get me in season shape.

I'll eat things like jalapeno cheese nachos in the next three weeks (which I don't eat a lot of) just so when I accidently grab one at a tailgate or during a game, I don't miss any action by reacting to the taste of the chip. See, it's the excitement with the training all in one!

Football Santa comes on August 30th, LSU-App State, Tech-Mississippi State. I'll be sure to leave the big guy two brats and a brew the night before.

- Rob

for more info on tailgate recipes go to KTBS's taste of tailgate page!

Richie Sexson's loss is Tug Hulett's gain. The Seattle Mariners released the slumping Sexson, leaving a spot on the roster that Hulett was only too happy to fill in. Hulett, the son of former New York Met and current Evangel Baseball Coach, Tim Hulett, has been ripping the cover off the ball since May 1st. Prior to that? Not so much---Tug was hitting a paltry .122 through April. but the drought in April led to heavy hitting showers since May 1st. After the initial day of the fifth month, Hulett has been hitting at a .335 slip, including a torrid .417 clip over his last ten games.

Congrats to Tug, who should see some playing time for the woeful Mariners. At 36-56 this season, the M's should give all their young players a long look.

When you watch the KTBS-3 Sportscast on Sunday, July 6th, you'll hear the announcer say "now, KTBS-3 Sports, with Tim Fletcher"... if you can, just use your mental record player and cue the "Welcome Back Kotter Music."  Fletch if you read this, you need to talk to our production crew to have that as your open music during Sunday Overtime!!!

In response to some of your emails and phones calls, our good buddy Tim Fletcher returns from vacation on July 6th in the most anticipated sports broadcast known to man!  Despite rumors, Fletch did not go on hiatus with J. Peterman to the Bermese Jungle.

Now it's my turn for a vaca!

My vacation where I go back home may not take place until later this summer, so if I stick around in Shreveport, what is there to do?  Any idea's? 

One thing I do know, I am debating on giving a nice dance on air tonight during Saturday Overtime, check out sherritalley.com and you'll see some other news anchors really get down!!!

"Keep the restaurants and bars open a little later, Omaha---the Tigers and their faithful are coming!" In the best news for the Nebraska economy since the advent of corn's use in fueling our vehicles, the throng of LSU fans will be descending upon Omaha beginning later this week.  In my two trips to the College World Series, the number of LSU fans RV'ing their way to Meat Capitol, USA is astounding!  When restaurant managers/wait staff discover you're from Louisiana---it never fails---they ALWAYS say something along the lines of, "Man... are we glad to see LSU back here.  Those folks know how to party (eat, drink, shop, etc.)!"

Now, if only the Tigers can snap their two-trip string of two-and-bar-b-que in Omaha---the businesses of Omaha may be in for a banner June.

We leave for Nebraska on Friday morning---so expect much, much more on the CWS as the week progresses!! 

Twenty consecutive wins will get you noticed in the world of college baseball. LSU's school record winning streak has put the Tigers at the center of the sports' map. This comes after a couple of years where LSU had fallen OFF the baseball map. As LSU prepares to host a regional featuring Texas Southern, Southern Miss and a dangerous UNO (beat LSU two of three times this season) team, some Tiger fans have wondered aloud if the team would have been better off losing a game before the NCAA Tourney begins. That, my aluminum bat swinging friends, is proposterous! Why in the world would it ever be a good thing for a red-hot team to drop a game? Patriots fans felt the same way last year as their team rolled to 18 wins in 18 games.

Apparently, the believers in the philosophy of dropping a game feel a team with "too-good" mojo is just asking for trouble. "We can't possibly extend this winning streak to __ games (that would include a championship game)... so why not break the streak BEFORE the title tilt?" I'll tell you why not---because it would be a loss, people! Sports is about winning, not avoiding catastrophic coincidences.

If I'm an LSU baseball fan, I'm hoping the next loss for the Golden Guys comes sometime next March.

The Indians are expected to make a pair of moves on the roster today, clearing a spot for Aubrey by Saturday.  For the 11th overall selection of the 2003 June Amateur draft who has battled numerous injuries over the past five seasons, it's a promotion that will be well worth the wait.

By Rob Brennan

Time to take a step outside the "one-track" sports-mined blog.

After experiencing what the Shreveport area did last night, it was unreal.

I am originally from the northeast, and never saw flood waters like last night.  I've seen bad floods, but again, nothing ever like last night.  After last night's newscast, Fletch, Gerry May, myself, and many other on the KTBS staff got a chance to go out and cover some of the area's damage, and we also saw how bad some of the flood waters had risen.  Some stranded motorists told Gerry May that this was like a mini hurricane Katrina.

From what I saw, I feel city officials did a great job for the man power they had, they helped as many people as they could.

Now, it's time for clean-up, and driving around on Wednesday, I saw many places damaged, whick included homes, and even little league fields completly destroyed.  It may take some time, but the big picture in all this, no reported fatalities from the high waters, which in my opinion is the most important news in all of this.

By Rob Brennan

Alex Box closed it's regular season doors to LSU fans on Sunday.  It's been the home to Tiger Baseball for 70 years.  The Tigers have won five national titles and have played numerous NCAA regional and super-regional's in this facility.  The Tigers also have a winning percentage of over .787 at "The Box" and have led the country in attendance for the last 12 seasons.

These are the reason's why LSU fans and players will always remember "The Box."  But there is one reason that most fans are aware of, that I think is the most important.

Alex Box was a former outfielder for the 1942 LSU Tiger Baseball team.  He was good guy, originally from Laurel, Mississippi, and graduated with a petroleum engineering degree in the spring of 1942.

Box would meet his future wife, Earle, but would be called to fight for our country later that summer in 1942.  He made a deal with his girlfriend that she would get her education degree while he was off at war, and then they would marry when his World War II duty was over.

November 9, 1942, the day Alex Box became an american hero, and not many at the time knew it.  Box risked his life in helping destroy six enemy machine gun nests and an artillery emplacement in Algeria.  He earned the Distinguished Service Cross, the Army's second highest honor.

On February 19, 1943, Box continued to fight hard for his country at the age of 22.  During a fierce battle in Tunisia, Box's tank was destroyed by a German mine.  He was killed instantly.

May 28, 1943, the LSU Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to name the Tigers Baseball Stadium after Alex Box.

That is the reason why we remember Alex Box, that is the reason we remember why we enjoy baseball day in and day out at LSU.  I wish I could meet Alex Box, and perhaps one day I will, and on that day I shall just speak two words, "Thank you."

On the old sports calendar, mid-May is usually snooze time around here. Not this year. Meredith Duncan climbing the leaderboard of the LPGA Michelob Ultra With A Lime Open; Airline High School taking on Barbe in the 5A Baseball Semi-Finals, with a spot in Saturday's Championship game on the line; LSU closing out their final regular season in Alex Box Stadium (and riding a ten-game winning streak into Saturday's date with Mississippi State); The Saints opening their Mini-Camp with their 2008 draft picks and rookie free agents; And how about those New Orleans Hornets... two wins away from marching into the NBA Western Conference Finals.

It used to be easy to be one of "those guys." You know... "There ain't a darn-blamed thing to watch or keep up with between the NFL Draft and Training Camp." Now, those guys have mulitiple viewing options this weekend---but be careful fella's: Those Mother's Day gifts are going to buy themselves!

I am stunned. Shocked I tell ya'. Knock me over (YAAAAWWWWN) with a fake I.D. The Ryan Perrilloux era never blasts off thanks largely to Ryan Perrilloux errors. What should have taken place in February has come to fruition in May: Les Miles dismisses the athletically gifted quarterback from the Tigers today:

Miles may have had other good reasons to bid Perrilloux adieu'... ESPN reports the MVP of the SEC Championship game failed a recent drug test (Heck, even "I" made a "D" in Medical Terminology, the closest thing to drug testing in my milque toast life). Let's see... skipping class? Check. Missing team meetings? Oh, Yeah. (Allegedly) Take part in reefer madness? Duuuude.

Bossier-Shreveport BattleWings quarterback Gary Cooper said Tuesday he has left the team after being removed as starting quarterback.

"I was informed last night that I'm not starting," Cooper said.  "They had (their) reasoning, but couldn't believe it."

Cooper, who starred at Grambling State University and Booker T. Washington High, said the BattleWing coaching staff told him he was "not a good enough leader."

Cooper said he believes the coaches were looking for a reason to start backup quarterback Steve Panella.

"I'm going out there, playing, leading the league in some stats. Some of the guys are upset," Cooper said.

Cooper said he had no ill will toward BattleWings backup quarterback Steve Panella, who is expected to start on Saturday at Rio Grande Valley.

"I'm not going; I told them to trade me or cut me," Cooper said.  "If they want to keep me on the roster and block me from going to another team, that is their business. But it's all just coming out of nowhere and a lot of guys are upset."

BattleWings General Manager Butch Bellah said Cooper is still on the active roster and has not been released or traded.

Head Coach Jon Norris said Cooper is still a member of the BattleWings if he changes his mind and wants to rejoin the team.

"It will be evaluated at that time," Norris said.  "He's a good young quarterback, a good kid. We expect him to be a man and a good team member."  

Cooper is tied for the AF-2 league lead with 271 passing yards per game.  He is also second in the league with 27 total touchdowns and, overall, is in the top two in eight statistical categories.

KTBS' Tim Fletcher contributed to this report

Poor, Jody Lowery.  For the first time, her Memphis fan-dom has come back to haunt her.  Last night Kansas outlasted the Tigers... laying in the weeds, waiting for John Calipari's squad to do what most expected of the clanking crew: Miss Free Throws During A Critical Stretch Of The Game.

When CDR and Derrick Rose missed from fifteen feet with no one guarding them, the door was opened for a Kansas Komeback... Mario Chalmer's three with 2.1 seconds to play just cemented the inevitable: Memphis choked away their first national championship.  Why didn't a Tiger fould Collins brining the ball upcourt with less than ten seconds to play in regulation? Wow... rough way to lose, Memphis.

The good news is, Jody now "gets" to wear my old Kansas hat that I bought in 2001 in Kansas City when the Lady Techsters played in the NCAA Tournament in the city of BBQ.  This hat has been on my dome for many lawn mowings, many jogs through the city, various activities that brought the sweat out of my noggin and into the hat-band.  And now Jody will wear it.  She has to be proud.

Was Ryan Perrilloux an unruly customer at the Kona Grill in Baton Rouge Sunday night? Or, was the quarterback minding his own business in the Capitol City eatery, as the manager suggests? And for once, I completely agree with Glenn Guilbeau. As I mentioned on the radio show this morning, Les Miles owes an explanation of the Perrilloux situation to statewide fans and followers of the Tigers. As the highest-paid state employee in Louisiana history, Miles should be aware of his standing in this state---and how it appears that he is being led around by his nose by none other than Ryan Perrilloux. It reminds me of the old Seinfeld bit regarding aliens landing on earth and viewing folks taking their dogs for a walk. Who would they think is running things around here, the four-legged furry guys, or the people carrying a sack of poop behind the dog, awaiting the next deposit into the bag. Right now, Miles has a CVS sack just waiting for Perrilloux to take his next dump on the program.

Hey folks... Rob here.

Gotta get something off my chest that has been bothering me since 1999 when I started in the media biz at Virginia Tech.  Why do NCAA athletic programs think they are the boss of all media?

Now I know you, the fan, may not know what I mean.... but let me take you to the "media side" of college football.  It all started on Tuesday when KTBS went to LSU practice in Baton Rouge ((( cue flashback harp music ))).

After practice, as the media (including myself) gathered around to talk to Les Miles, we found out from a LSU S.I.D. that Miles would not speak. 

(S.I.D.'s are the people who work for the athletic department at universities who arrange media interviews with coaches and players)

So Coach Miles doesn't want to talk on the day we find out ole' Ryan Perrilloux is in trouble again... that's fine, it's his business to do so, and I respect that.  But what got me is when the S.I.D. said, "Coach Miles already told the players not to answer any questions about Ryan, and also said you are not allowed to ask any questions about Ryan or any off-the-field issues."

Haha, what??!!!  Folks, I hope you see what I am trying to say here, and one day I'll write a book about my experiences with S.I.D.'s.  I totally understand and have no problem if Les Miles does not want the players to talk about Ryan Perrilloux, why create more distraction? Right?

But on the flip side, we the media, have a job to do to get you, the fan, information about these issues that you want to know about. 

This bugs me, and always will.  NCAA athletic programs have just about 24-7 access to their athletes to train and tell them what to say and not to say to the media.  The NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL do it, and it works to their advantage (unless the player is a loose cannon, but you get my drift).

But for a division-I college football program to tell the media what they can and can't ask about?  Doesn't that raise a red flag for me, a reporter, and you, the fan? 

Hey guys, Rob here....have you heard?  The official start to the Major League Baseball season for teams that didn't play Sunday night (or in Japan) begins today.

As much as baseball is the "American Past Time", to me, Opening Day is just another game of a 162-game season.  The baseball season is too long, too boring, and lacks any "major drama" or excitement, unless we get another crazy Rangers-Orioles home run fest again.

I'm not knocking baseball, I grew up playing the sport, and went to my fair share of Phillies and Orioles games.  Going to a game itself is a great experience. 

But the way our country's fan-hood has evolved, I would never think ten years ago that I would be sitting here at the age of 28, and be more worried more about who the Eagles are going to draft in April than how the Phillies start the first few weeks of the season. 

So until about late June, mid-July... Major League Baseball, you're on the clock.

Pass the Advil. My brackets are not feeling too well. Perhaps it was the shot of Siena... or the Western Kentucky omelette. Did the Butler do it? Nooooo, they didn't, which is aiding the hurt. My only salvation in this year's bracket? Davidson and West Virginia fight on! Stephen Curry has roared into March like a Lion---will Wisconsin turn him into a rack of lamb (with a cheese wheel on the side!)?

The tournament has delivered enough chills and thrills to match the hype. Now it's time to settle down get down to the business of determining a national champion. So far, North Carolina... Louisville... Kansas... and Xavier have looked the best. I have a sneaky feeling the Cardinals can knock the Tar out of the Heels, IF the 'ville can escape Tennessee in the Sweet Sixteen. UCLA may have punched their ticket to the Final Four since they've already fulfilled the obligatory "barely-escape-the-upset" portion of the Tournament. And no, even though Memphis also had a narrow victory, they aren't in the same boat with the Bruins. The Tigers horrendous free-throw shooting will condemn them to spectators of the Final Four---and I believe it will happen against Tom Izzo's Michigan State Spartans in this round.

Former LSU Tiger Jacob Hester paid a visit to his hometown this weekend.  It's nice to hear Hester and his wife were able to spend the Easter holiday with family, including his LSU family.

The former Evangel Eagle made appearances at Tiger Island inside Reeves Marine and was also a guest of honor at the Mudbugs game on Saturday night.  Our KTBS-3, including Fletch and myself, got to hang around and follow Jacob around at both these events, and what I've learned about Hester is what everyone has told me since I moved to Shreveport.... Class Act.

Almost 1-Thousand LSU fans came to Tiger Island to visit Jacob Saturday morning, and Jacob wasn't rude, talked to each and every fan, and made each every person feel like it was a moment of their own.   I didn't agree that it should cost fans $25, then again, I don't think Jacob did either.  You got to understand in the world of dealing with agents and events like this, moo-la is always involved.  Why I am saying this, you could tell Hester didn't have money on his mind during the autograph session, he had each fan on his mind.

I was convinced of this claim when I followed Hester around at the Mudbugs game later that night.  When we walked off the ice after the cerimonial puck drop, Jacob went out of his way to shake the hands of fans and sign autographs, free of charge!

We already know Jacob Hester "the football player" will live in LSU Football lure forever.  "The person" isn't that far off at becoming a legend either.

This may be the most random thought coming from the Brennan cranium.  But as the NCAA tournament begin's today, there is one thing I've noticed about every game I've seen on the tube.... the "NCAA" is crooked.

Like Fletch, I'm a big fan of uniforms, colors, classic throw-backs, and also a huge fan on how sports franchices decorate their homefield / court (how they cut the grass, do they paint the lane, etc.).

What I've noticed, and can't seem to understand, is why the "NCAA" emblem on every center court, in every arena, is off center.  Just check out a game and you'll see what I mean.  Each court has a HUGE blue circle at mid-court with the "NCAA" written on it, good touch, classy, I agree.  But the actual "NCAA" is not centered with the blue bubble.  Why?  and it's like this in every arena with every NCAA emblem you see.

I remember seeing this a few years ago at the 2004 Women's NCAA Tournament, and it's been bothering me since. At first when I saw it, I thought it was an accident.  But after doing research, all NCAA emblems have the letters "NCAA" about 10-20% below the mid-way point of a circle or blue bubble.

Now last checked, the NCAA represents college scholars, and "smart people" with college degree's... isn't it unatural for the eyes to see the emblem like this (a'la off center)? 

This rant may back the claim up that it is unatural and it does bother the ole' peepers.  So enjoy the game, and if you get an unexpected headache while watching the madness, don't say I didn't warn ya.

The D.J. breaks out the wheels of steel tomorrow, mixing a blazing mix of hardwood harmony to get The Big Dance going. The first game of the NCAA Tournament features the SEC Spinderella Georgia Bulldogs taking on Xavier. I like Wolverine and Storm in this one, yep---take the X-Men. Kansas will barely break a sweat against Portland State en route to a route. To finish the lunch-time trifecta, Temple meets Michigan State. The Owls will pull off the first upset of the day, as a (12) twelve seed, sending the fifth-seeded Spartans home.

In the quartet of afternoon games, I just don't think Kentucky is as good as Marquette; Baylor will shoot lights out and upset Purdue; A Golden Flash is better than a Runnin' Rebel; and Pitt will be tested by Oral Roberts, but the Panthers pass the exam by eight points.

It's not brunch, since it's between lunch and dinner---I'll go with dunch---at four o'clock, the brainiacs get together. In a Cornell-Stanford matchup, pick the brains who are better ballers---Feed The Tree, Cardinal win.

Thursday's evening session gets underway with the marquee matchup of the day---USC's O.J. Mayo facing Kansas State's Michael Beasley. The Wildcats can't hold the Mayo, USC moves on. Duke stomps Belmont... the Aggies and BYU will fight tooth-and-nail, Gig 'em wins in the end. My darkhorse for the Final Four is Wisconsin, so of course I believe they will Badger Fullerton. I don't think Arizona should even be in the field---West Virginia will take care of that piece of business by 9:45 pm Thursday. My other sleeper pick, Notre Dame tries to end George Mason's Cinderella run before the ugly step-sisters can think of some chores. Fightint Irish will win as will UCLA, my pick to win it all.

Whew... and that's just Day 1 of the tourney! Bring it!! It's been brought-on!!

It's that time of year where coaches in football get offered new jobs, which means it's also that time of year the panic buttom is hit in many athletic programs around the country.

As of now, 21 East Texas High Schools are looking for or already hired a new football coach.  Why such a domino effect of change?  Some of these coaches who bolted or resigned, were only at their last school for a few years.  Is it they want more money?  Is is pressure from the school to win? 

Whatever the reason, the musical chair game is in full swing, and don't expect it to end for about another month or so.

For more on the East Texas Coaching Carousel, check our buddies out at smoaky.com.

Here is a link:

http://www.smoaky.com/news/View.php?ArticleID=1207

Not since the old "Mr. Bubble," days have I been this anxious about "Bubbles." Will the Arkansas Razorbacks move "off the bubble" and into "lock" position in terms of their NCAA Tournament status? Do the Hogs need a win over Vanderbilt today to cement a spot in the Field Of 65? I hope not... 20 wins, an above .500 record in the SEC and a top 15 Strength of Schedule should be enough to punch the Pigs Ticket to "The Dance." And... I think other bubble teams bursting has helped their cause as well---Arizona State, Oregon, Ole Miss, VCU, Villanova, Arizona, Dayton, Houston, Baylor and Florida all lost---and all of those teams were outside the "lock" spots according to Bracket-Brainiacs.

With that said, as a Hogs fan, I expect the worst and the Razorbacks to be slighted. The best way to avoid any argument is to take care of business this afternoon in Atlanta against the Commodores.

And how about those NSU Demons? Mike McConathy's men fire up Southeastern Louisiana last night, 71-51 to move into the Southland Conference semi's. The Demons take on top-seeded Stephen F. Austin this evening---and are two wins away from their third NCAA Tournament appearance.

We will also be keeping on eye on fabulous freshman, James Anderson at Oklahoma State. The Junction City, Arkansas native led the Cowboys to a quarterfinal win over Texas Tech in the Big XII Tournament Thursday---going to take a bigger effort today to keep the 'Pokes season alive: Oklahoma State meets top-seeded Texas at 11:30a.m. in Kansas City.

March Madness truly begins this week with 30 conferences determining their tournament champions. Cinderella comes in all shapes and sizes... and beginning tonight with four bids on the line, the slipper comes in the form of a sneaker.

Looking for a Mid-Major Conference team to make some noise in the Big Dance? The easy choice: Gonzaga... Mark Few has the Zag's Zigging at the right time, plus they have a wealth of NCAA Tournament experience. For my money, though... I'm going with Davidson (owners of a 21-Game Winning Streak as well as a Lonely Heart) and (Love The) Drake. The Bulldogs won the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament yesterday and are heading to the NCAA Tourney for the first time since 1971.

The good folks at Louisiana Tech are feeling pretty froggy today after announcing head football coach, Derek Dooley will take over for the retiring Jim Oakes as Tech's athletic director. I think Tech's football program is moving in a positive direction under Derek---but I wonder if this is the right move at this time in Tech athletics. When Derek's father served as head coach/AD at Georgia, the landscape was different in college football. Fans and media didn't have the internet to exchange information; get scoop on current players and incoming freshmen; college football wasn't a "year-round" sport. Coaches, making ten-to-twenty times more money than they did during the 70's hay-day of dual-roles, have so much more pressure to succeed immediately. Fan message boards and various blogs delivering "inside" news and providing round-the-clock forums have stirred up a hornet's nest of interest. Due to the time a coach must devote to his job, it makes me wonder how Derek can successfully take off his coaching hat and knot his athletic director tie without either position suffering from lack of attention.

However, I HATE it when outsiders (like me in this instance!) bury a guy before he gets the chance to prove himself. Derek, with his law degree and pedigree, has already shown his DNA and mental makeup can achieve where others may have failed. In this instance, I hope for Tech's sake and Derek's, that success awaits on the field---and behind the desk.

What on earth will John Madden and Chris Berman do now for a man-crush? Brett Favre, according first (I believe) to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports, is retiring. There are those close to the famed #4 that say the long time Packers quarterback had grown disenchanted with: A) the lack of professionalism/dedication by some of his younger teammates; and B) the teams' failure to bring in a big-time pass-catcher (i.e., Randy Moss).

What will Favre's legacy be? One of the greatest QB's of all-time? Let us know where you would rank Favre...

• Montana
• Unitas
• Elway
• Brady
• Peyton Manning
• Marino
• Favre
• Aikman

Where does Favre belong on that list?

Interesting note... plenty of local ties to the soon-to-be-former Packer. Calvary head coach, Doug Pederson is a former teammate and good friend of Favre. NSU Demon alum, Craig Nall is also a friend and could be the guy to replace Favre in the Packers lineup, if Nall can beat out Aaron Rodgers for the job.

Sing with me!! Seriously, is there anything better about being a sports fan than the upcoming weeks? March Madness; Opening Day; The Masters; The NFL Draft; locally, the just-completed Girls Top-28 along with the in-session Boys Top 28; and of course, Mudbugs Hockey post-season play.

Personally, there is nothing like March Madness in my world. That first Thursday and Friday of the Tournament is a little slice of Hoops Heaven on earth. But I won't turn the channel on any of the other big events. And as far as covering a sport? The Girls and Boys basketball tournaments are absolutely incredible.

So... what's floating your boat right now in the ocean of sports?

The NFL Free Agent Frenzy is well underway, and the Saints are major players.  Apparently, the Fleur de lis Fella's are much like Elaine Benes fictional boyfriend, they're exporter-importers.  Gone? Offensive lineman, Jeff Faine (to Tampa Bay for $20 Million over the first three years, $15 Million guaranteed money) and Devery Henderson (also a possibility to land in Tampa); Coming on board? Former Jets linebacker, Jonathan Vilma, in exchange for a conditional draft pick in 2009.  In addition, Chargers running back, Michael Turner is in the Saints sights as is... Giants tight end, Jeremy Shockey? Yeah... so, the Saints aren't going to stand pat this offseason---and with Vilma on board, Sean Payton's first move is shoring up the defense.  Smart, Sean... VERY smart.

Another match, another win for David Toms at the WGC Match Play Championships. In his opening round match against defending Masters champion, Zach Johnson, Toms holed out a short birdie putt on 17 to win, 2-and-1.

The Airline and LSU alum is now 23-7 in Match Play Championship competition, including a 6-0 mark on the way to the title in 2005. The twenty-third win leaves Toms two victories behind Tiger Woods for the most in Match Play Championship history.

Toms key to victory? "I got off to a good start, I was a couple up, early on," Toms said. " Zach holed out from the fairway (No. 5) and made a nice birdie on four... got back to even and then we just kind of played solid golf the rest of the way." Toms added, "For the most part, I drove the ball well and scored really well... I'm looking forward to the rest of the week."

And perhaps taking over Tiger as the most prolific winner in Match Play Championship history.

Whew... I feel like I had the wind knocked out of me. Wow. I did not see that punch to the ol' basketball-bread-basket coming. Centenary, at home against a team that had lost their last ELEVEN road games, was beaten like a set of erasers. IPFW (which is either the International Pipe-Fitters & Welder's club team or Indiana University-Purdue University Ft. Wayne) rolled out to a 26-4 first half lead before settling for a 41-15 halftime advantage. The Gents played "scrappy" in the second half, but to no avail---a lopsided loss in front of a lot of empty bleachers.

The news isn't much better in Ruston. Louisiana Tech suffered their ninth loss in nine WAC Games as Boise State broke the Bulldogs down eventually, 73-61.

The two local/area teams have something in common though. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Rob Flaska (Gents) and Kerry Rupp ('Dogs) have young teams--and, kids that could really help the program, ineligible (transfer) or hurt. As rough as the sledding is now in the Gold Dome and The Thomas Assembly Center, it doesn't mean fans should pull their support. It's evident these guys need all the help they can get.

Former Arkansas Razorback, Woodlawn Knight and Buffalo Bills quarterback, Joe Ferguson is once again fighting for his life at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston. Click here for updates on Joe's condition.

Current Arkansas Razorback, Ryan Mallett--who transferred from Michigan in January---would love to be on the field for the Razorbacks during the 2008 season. Impossible, right? You know, that whole NCAA Rule that prohibits transfers from one Football Bowl Subdivision school to another from playing for their new university for a full year? Well, the Mallett family has petitioned the NCAA to alter the rule for Ryan. When Rich Rodriguez was hired as Michigan's coach, EVERYONE knew Mallet's days as a quarterback for the Wolverines were numbered. Mallett is a classic drop-back passer---Rodriguez runs the "spread option," offense---which relies on an elusive, mobile quarterback. The Malletts contend (rightfully) that Ryan shouldn't be punished for 18 months (length of time he would go without playing in a game for Arkansas) just because the school he originally signed with brought in a new coach who uses a system counter-productive to fit Mallett. Keep an eye on this---could be a watershed case.

The Giants did the unthinkable---they mussed Tom Brady's hair and wrecked the Patriots shot at joining the Dolphins as teams with a donut under the "L" at the end of the season.

In my personal opinion, this was the best "game" in Super Bowl history---I know there have been other nail-biters and down-to-the-wire finishes in SB history---however, due to the historical nature of the win (actually, the historical nature of the loss), the manner in which Eli Manning led the Giants downfield for the game-winning touchdown (complete with the greatest play in Super Bowl History---admit it) and the pure-football mode the Giants defense played in throughout, to me, makes it number one of the 42 games.

And could there be a more classless coach in professional sports than Bill Belichick... forget the ridiculous "costume" he wears (A hoodie? Indoors? In the desert?), the entirety of "Spygate," the alleged trysts, and the lack of respect for an opponent (win or lose, the guy is a jerk to the opposing teams-coaches)... his smarminess and worminess makes me root against any team he coaches.

Whew! I feel MUCH better with that off my chest.

Has Media Day at the Super Bowl "jumped the shark"? From the foreign "correspondent" proposing marriage to four (4!) quarterbacks... to the 8-year old "reporter... to the "American Idol" girl... to the dude dressed as a wizard (would still pay money to see Joe, Mark and Skip in those outfits, "conjuring up forecasts")... is it really necessary?

In a word: Yes. H-E-Double-Hockey-Sticks, Yes. The NFL is more stuffy than the McNeil-Lehrer Fan Club, so a little goofiness (okay--- a LOT of goofiness) is welcome in my book. As much as the players "act" like the media is the worst thing since hotel security, most of the guys eat up the attention and weirdness. For the only time during a grueling 5-month season, they can let their guard down and relax.

By the way, even though a flu bug has infiltrated the Giants camp, I'm sticking with my pick of a New York Giants victory this Sunday.

So... Tony Romo has dumped ^? Uh... okey-dokey Mr. Quarterback. Apparently, OK! Magazine has all the scoop (here)

... Tony just wants to be "friends." Friends? There isn't a woman worth her weight in starletry that wants to be "friends". Apparently, the Cowboys signal-caller seriously considered throwing the relationship into the third row of Texas Stadium after all the scuttlebutt surrounding the "curse" of Jessica. One of Jess' (we're tight like that) pals says the singer/actress wanted Romo to move to L.A. but Romo wants to keep his boots in Texas. Thus, a simple excuse appears for Romo to cut ties to the Dallas Daisy. Cowboys fans probably aren't rejoicing as much as they would have had this incompletion come prior to the Giants game. There's always next year, Cowboy fans---and remember... Brittany is available!