Tusk II, a few days prior to his passing.

Arkansas’ mascot, Tusk II, died today.  We saw him Saturday at the Liberty Bowl and he was in good spirits, posing for pics (including the one below, left).  If I had been forced to bet on who would die between he and I after being in that ridiculious weather, I wouldn’t have put my money on him.

"Mike,....need to get you in touch with my agent, Jimmy Sexton, from Memphis Tennessee.....knows how to manufacture interviews........negotiate contracts..........He's special.......There's nothing like him........ Two words: "Golden Handcuffs".

read these emails  (primarily) between Texas Tech Chancellor Kent Hance and booster Jim Sowell at the end of 2008 and beginning of 2009 during Leach’s contract negotiations.  Deadspin.com gives a pretty good summary,  as does the Dallas Morning News (which obtained the emails) but the full text is pretty interesting and worth reading, as it provides insight into the inner workings of big-time college athletics and, and shows us once again that, as is the case with most things in life, it’s all about the $$$$$$$$.

I can’t decide which is worse–this one,

Asked about Bailey, Nutt couldn’t remember the kicker who’s about to go up against his current team. “Who?” he asked, his eyes narrowing. Nutt then offered a generic response about special teams.

or this one

But he story is deeper. Combs planned to play at Arkansas, where he his dad was also a walk-on.

There, though, he was referred to as a “handicap kicker” and wasn’t given a shot to really contribute.

headed to Oakland to be the next Raiders coach?  Interesting.  I guess Darren McFadden would continue to get 5 carries a game.

I can’t disagree with much of what they say except I think they gave ECU, a good team, short shrift.  They are solid in both the offensive and defensive lines and are tailor-made for that type of obscene weather.