The NFL is in a sticky wicket. It’s the most popular league in the United States by a wide margin, and with popularity, comes a closer examination than any other sport. Then you throw in former players, young in their early 40’s going the suicidal route – possibly due to head injuries sustained while playing the game – lawsuits everywhere (over 500 former players are involved with numerous class action suits suing the league for various post-career problems), and you’re left with a sport teetering on the edge of potential – and hear me out here – extinction.

Football is fun to watch. It’s exciting, it’s violent, it’s an amazing experience live, and almost as good in HD at your local sports bar or on your couch. People love to gamble on it, build fantasy football teams through it, and use it to bond with friends and loved ones. It’s a passion passed on from generation to generation – a game evolving as the equipment and rules have.

Take Thanksgiving as a prime example; Aside from the floats, turkey (or steak), and family, what is the common denominator that most people take part in – watching football. ESPN spends more time talking about the buildup to the NFL Draft than they do the NHL Playoffs. Granted they own the rights (along with NFL Network) to coverage of the draft, but that’s not the point.

Think about a Sunday in the fall without football – or for that matter, a weekend in the fall where no football is played at any level. Picture a world where the game has been deemed too violent, banned from being played like a controversial book is burned. Picture the end of pigskin.

Picture yourself at high school – no Friday night game. Now you’re in college – no Saturday game. Now it’s Sunday – picture being at a sports bar showing nothing but bowling, baseball, and golf.

***

The NFL has been around since 1920 (3 years after the NHL got it’s waterlegs) and it’s the most attended domestic sports league on Earth when it comes to butts in the seat per game.  It’s one of the few things in life promised every year. With the exception of lockouts you will get a season. It’s almost a guarantee. But at its core, the NFL is a business. And at its core plenty of businesses fail, even after surviving for over 100 years: The NFL is 8 years away from that banner season.

But when you think about dynasties, nothing lasts forever. Before people understood just how dangerous the sport was medically it was played far more ruthlessly than it is today. But those same guys who gave their blood, sweat, and tears to get the game to where it is today are suffering the physical consequences later in their lives.

Some struggle to get out of bed. Some can barely stand. Some are simply broken souls. Does this sound like a system that works? A sport designed for the longhaul?

Is the NFL writing its death-certificate courteous of its style of play – which attracted most of the guys now suing it, who are trying to break it for perceived broken promises and lies about doing whatever it took to make the game as safe as possible?

Has the NFL with-held information over the years about the dangers of concussions? That seems to be the argument these former players suing them are now making. And when one scavenger sees a carcass, a whole lot of ‘em follow, which is why you’re seeing former players pouncing on these class action law-suits.

Do these players just want money? Or do they want to break the sport that broke them?

It’s such a complicated, sad situation: this tussle between what makes the NFL great and what makes the sport so wrong. Because let’s face it – if concussions and horrific head injuries lead to what we’ve been seeing — guys like Junior Seau taking their life at the age of 43 (this hasn’t been confirmed as his brain will be examined), then how do you let this game go on in its present form? How do you let kids play a game that harbors within it the power to ruin one’s life?

***

I’ve never found myself saying this before, but football is too powerful for its own good. It’s gotten too big, that it’s out of control. Its greatest strength (violence) appears to be it’s greatest detriment (horrifying head injuries). The players are stronger than before and the way we’re cutting out rules to keep these hulking 4.3 running monsters from killing each other continues to grow.

Talk has grown louder about eliminating one of the games most exciting and dangerous plays – the kickoff. Afterall, it’s hard to think of a more battle-like play than running 40 yards down the field at full speed to tackle a guy using his speed to go towards you.

But let’s say the NFL eliminates the kickoff, and starts each post-scoring possession at the 20. What’s next? Eliminating down the middle crossing patterns because two guys can violently collide while going after the same football? We see quarterbacks getting blind-sided all the time. How can we fix that? By forcing a QB to stay in a goalie-like crease where he can’t be touched for at least 7 Mississippi?

Roger Goodell is trying to make football safer – or at least advance the perception that it’s safer, but if you rip the guts out of what makes the sport so popular, you’re left with just skin and bones – and a game that quite frankly could wilt away.

You can suspend guys, fine them heavily, you can send warnings, and preach about it all you want, but at the end of the day these are violent-minded guys playing a barbaric sport that demands of them Gladiator like toughness. They’re paid to act, not to think.

Their natural instinct is to kill the other guy (not literally I’d hope).

But if that instinct is leading to these horrible traumatic injuries, which lead to CTE, which in turn lead to an uncomfortable number of players taking their own lives shortly after exiting the game, then how do you fix a wildly successful, albeit broken model?

Sure you can get concussions playing lacrosse or hockey but football is the biggest sport around, and when you’re the biggest, you’re always under the brightest lights.

If I was a parent I wouldn’t let my kid play organized football. Period.

There is way too much risk. But I love watching it on TV. I love going to games. I love cheering my team out the tunnel, and taunting the other team after a big hit. So do a lot of people.

I love writing about it, analyzing it, and talking about it. Articles like this may seem to go against that, but I really do love football.

I just don’t love its future the way things are going. In fact, in a sport where betting is a part of the fabric, I’d put healthy odds that the game we know today, could very much be gone in the near future.

Unless of course, the NFL knows something that we don’t: Which is how to make the game safe, while maintaining its integrity. Right now unfortunately, those things sound way too contradictory.

Photo: Getty

*The Oakland Raiders gave up their third round pick this year when they drafted Ohio State QB Terrell Pryor in the 2011 NFL Supplemental Draft.

Round 1

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

Luck is the pick; there is no doubt about it at this point. How fortunate is this team to essentially transition from Peyton Manning to Andrew Luck with just a season in between.

2. Washington Redskins (STL): Richard Griffin III, QB, Baylor

RG3 better be the best player in the draft for what the Redskins paid for him (two 1st round picks and one 2nd round pick to move up four slots). With a lack of top-end college talent coming in over the next few years, the Skins need to sign veteran talent to bolster Griffin’s prospective career in D.C.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

If this wasn’t such a QB-hungry league, Matt Kalil would be the 2nd pick at worst. While he has the frame of former top offensive tackle picks, his athleticism far-exceeds his predecessors. This will be a more important pick for the Minnesota than last year’s selection for Christian Ponder (who is competing with on-again, off-again QB Joe Webb for a shot at starting).

4. Cleveland Browns: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

Blackmon looked like he was going fall after his so-so combine, but his pro day reopened eyes. The Browns have lacked a number one WR since the beginning of time and Blackmon can definitely fill that void. While he may not have the best hands or size, he is talented and can spread the field.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Ronde Barber’s future is looking cloudy with retirement looming and Aqib Talib may be facing a suspension or  worst in the coming year; the Bucs need to look at other options. Claiborne is one the best cover corners to come out of college in a while and Patrick Peterson’s success will no doubt help hype up his former LSU teammate’s draft stock.

6. St. Louis Rams (WAS): Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

While this is almost definitely a reach when you consider Floyd’s off-the-field past, his talent is definitely top ten. The only issue with trading out of the top five is that the Rams miss out on what should be their top two targets (Kalil, Blackmon). Floyd will give the Rams a viable first option for Sam Bradford and could be just what Jeff Fisher needs to give the St. Louis offense a kick in the pants.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

The Jags have had issues for years getting to the quarterback. With Ingram in toe, the pressure is on for opposing QBs in the AFC South.

8. Miami Dolphins: Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

The Fins, whether they land Peyton Manning or not, need a long term solution at QB. Tannehill has been injured since the draft process started but he has all the tools necessary to succeed at the next level. New Miami offensive coordinator, Mike Sherman, coached Tannehill at Texas A & M and should know him better than anyone else.

9. Carolina Panthers: Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

Brockers has a ton of potential and great size.  With the Carolina defense hurting, a push up the middle could help the defensive line significantly. Brockers is defensive tackle prospect in the mold of defensive end and fellow college one-year wonder, Jason Pierre-Paul.

10. Buffalo Bills: Quinton Coples, DT/DE, UNC

The Bills are switching to a 4-3 and could no doubt use the versatility of Coples on their line. While Coples doesn’t have a defined position, he ability as a run stopper and pass rusher is unquestioned.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

Poe lit up the combine but has the makings of a major boom/bust prospect. Kelly Gregg is getting up there in age and the Chiefs have few holes. It’s time for an upgrade at nose tackle.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

Chris Cleamons is a good pass rusher but is getting older and with Red Bryant being the only other guy at DE, they need another. Mercilus has gone up and down draft boards more than anyone it seems. He has superior athleticism to most prospects and could do well in Pete Carroll’s defense.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

No matter who the QB is next season, Arizona needs to protect him. Part of the reason that Kevin Kolb was so injury prone, is because the Arizona offense line gave up the second most sacks in the league.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

Michael Jenkins has regressed significantly over the years and Terence Newman is as good as gone. Jerry Jones has never shied away from character issues and Kirkpatrick has been dropping due to his pre-draft weed issues, but has top talent.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

Kuechly just seems like the perfect fit in Philly, which is why this pick won’t likely happen. If the pick is made though, he is a sure-tackler and can take hold of a defense.

16. New York Jets: Trent Richardson, HB, Alabama

Shonn Greene is a decent option at running back but he isn’t likely the THE GUY in the Jets backfield. Richardson has all the abilities of a top five running back and could be a good outlet guy for the struggling Mark Sanchez.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (OAK): Reilly Reiff, OT/OG, Iowa

Reiff played tackle in college but most scouts project him to play guard in the pros. The Bengals want to continue to run often, so a good interior presence could open up the flood gates.

18. San Diego Chargers: Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama

Antwan Barnes is the only pass rush in San Diego so he needs a running (or rushing) mate. Upshaw has a high motor and pass rush skills to match. This could be a major steal on the first day of the draft.

19. Chicago Bears: Fletcher Cox, DT, Miss. State

The Bears have shuffled defensive lineman for years, but Fox can serve as long term solution to the carousel that is the Bears defensive line. Cox is use to going against tough competition in the SEC, so the NFC North could be a less daunting for the big man for Mississippi State.

20. Tennessee Titans: Nick Perry, DE, USC

It’s been only two years, but I think it is fair to call Derrick Morgan a bust. The Titans haven’t been able to get him on the field, so Nick Perry can do the job. Perry is outrageously athletic and has the speed to get around offensive linemen.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

Chris Crocker got owned down the stretch last season and is at the downside of his career, so the Bengals need to upgrade. With Reggie Nelson likely to leave town in free agency, this move seems all but imminent.

22. Cleveland Browns (ATL): Lamar Miller, HB, Miami

Peyton Hillis has gone from feel good story to complete mess in just two years and the Browns have little to show with Brandon Jackson and Montario Hardesty. Lamar Miller is very fast back with the ability to catch and could serve a special role in Pat Shurmur’s West Coast offense.

23. Detroit Lions: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

It’s hard to decide what is more of a need for the Lions: cornerback or offensive tackle. The Lions go for value at 23 and draft Jenkins who has had character issues throughout his college career, but is likely a top prospect talentwise.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Stephen Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

Ike Taylor looked foolish in the playoff loss to Denver and the Pittsburgh secondary has begun to show their age. Gilmore is extremely impressive as a ballhawk and could be the perfect compliment to Taylor in the secondary.

25. Denver Broncos: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

D.J. Williams is suspended for a large part of the 2012 season and Joe Mays is a free agent, so Brown would start right away on the weakside. He runs like a safety so his coverage skills are a plus, but his lack of size makes him hard to trust on running plays.

26. Houston Texans: Peter Konz, OL, Wisconsin

Incumbent starter, Chris Myers is likely to leave in free agency, so the Texans have to do their best to plus that hole. Konz is the best center prospect in the draft and play right away.

27. New England Patriots (NO): Cordy Glenn, OG, Georgia

The ever-changing offensive line in New England is constantly being upgraded with luxury picks. With rare size and speed for an offensive lineman, Glenn can play all over the line, giving the Pats some much appreciated versatility.

28. Green Bay Packers: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

Mark Tauscher is out in Green Bay, so the team needs to add a bookend to Derek Sherrod. Adams wasn’t really impressive at the NFL Combine, but his college play speaks for itself.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Devon Still, DT/DE, Penn St.

The Ravens normally pick for value  this late in the draft and this year will be no different. Still can rush the passer, but is more of a run stopper.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

The 49ers need a lot of help at wide receiver with most of their own hitting the open market. Sanu has the ability to play inside or out and can be a valued asset to Harbaugh and Co.

31. New England Patriots: Jerel Worthy, DT/DE, Michigan St.

Another luxury pick goes for the defensive line in New England. Worthy can eat up blockers, allowing for serious pass rushing from the Patriot linebackers.

32. New York Giants: Chris Polk, HB, Washington

Brandon Jacobs is already gone and this season proved Ahmad Bradshaw can’t carry the load alone. Polk has a lot of skeptics but he has the talent to be taken here. He also gives the Giants a better pass-catching option out of the backfield.

Round 2

33. St. Louis: Josh Robinson, CB, UCF

The Rams went through numerous DBs last season, so they need to add both depth and starters in the secondary. Robinson’s speedy forty should put him in position at this spot.

34. Indianapolis: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

The best way to make sure Andrew Luck is comfortable at the next level is to give him a safety net. What better way to replace Dallas Clark, then with Luck’s college teammate?

35. Minnesota: Alshon Jeffrey, WR, South Carolina

The Vikings dig South Carolina wide receivers (Sidney Rice, Troy Williamson) and Jeffrey is a big upgrade over Michael Jenkins.

36. Tampa Bay: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

The Bucs are looking to add Vincent Jackson. If they can’t get him, Randle could be a nice consolation prize.

37. Cleveland: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

The Browns hit with Jabaal Sheard last season, now they can add another second round defensive end to the mix.

38. Jacksonville: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma St.

Blaine Gabbert has been less than impressive, so Weeden can come in and give him some competition.

39. St. Louis (WAS): Harrison Smith, S, Notre Dame

As previously mentioned, the Rams secondary is a bit of a mess. Smith can learn from veteran Quintin Mikell.

40. Carolina: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

The Carolina cornerbacks were awful last year and Dennard has first round talent, so it should be a match.

41. Buffalo: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

Buffalo’s switch to the 4-3 is in need of more scheme-related talent and Jones fits the bill.

42. Miami: Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut

Miami hasn’t decided what scheme they want to run but Reyes fits both. He could be the replacement to Paul Soliai or Kendall Langford.

43. Seattle: Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson

Thompson can offer an upgrade over the underwhelming play of Alan Branch.

44. Kansas City: Vinny Curry, OLB/DE, Marshall

Justin Houston was a great find last season and Tamba Hali is one of the best in the business, but everyone needs depth when it comes to the pass rush.

45. Dallas: Kevin Zeitler, OG, Wisconsin

The Cowboys offensive line continues to change. Zeitler comes from a program that practically manufactures offensive linemen.

46. Philadelphia: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah St.

Philly has a well-publicized need at linebacker and Bobby Wagner may be the best option as a strong side guy.

47. New York Jets: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

With Bart Scott gone, the Jets need a new man in the middle. A victim of team’s needs, Hightower falls far past his projected draft position.

48. New England (OAK): Ronnell Lewis, OLB/DE, Oklahoma

The Pats need a pass rushing force and Lewis can be the answer.

49. San Diego: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

Hosley is great value at this pick and Quintin Jammer isn’t getting any younger.

50. Chicago: Zebrie Sanders, OT, FSU

Jemarcus Webb has filled in admirably at left tackle for Chicago, but he could use some serious competition.

51. Philadelphia (ARI): Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

Joselio Hanson is a good slot corner, but Boykin would be a significant upgrade.

52. Tennessee: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa St.

CJ2k could use some running lanes and Osemele is a top interior lineman. His small school status makes him slide.

53. Cincinnati: Doug Martin, HB, Boise St.

Cedric Benson is on the way out and the Bengals need a compliment to Bernard Scott.

54. Detroit: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

Cliff Avril may holdout after getting the Franchise Tag and Corey Williams is already a goner, so Johnson can enter the rotation and eventually take over for the aging Kyle Vaden Bosch.

55. Atlanta: Mychal Kendricks, ILB, California

Curtis Lofton appears likely to leave in free agency, so Kendricks  may be able to take over his role.

56. Pittsburgh: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

Hines Ward has left and Mike Wallace could be signed despite the restricted tender, so the Steelers need a backup plan.

57. Denver: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

John Fox loves pass catching tight ends and Charles is just that.

58. Houston: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

With Andre Johnson frequently missing time for injury, the Texans needs to have guys they can depend on at the WR position.

59. New Orleans: Amini Silatolu, OG, Midwestern St.

Carl Nicks is likely a free agent departure, the Saints need to develop his replacement.

60. Green Bay: Billy Winn, DE/DT, Boise St.

The Packers missed Cullen Jenkins last season and Winn might be able to solve their problems.

61. Baltimore: Jonathan Massoqui, OLB/DE, Troy

Jarrett Johnson is aging and a free agent, so Massoqui can add some youth to the pass rush.

62. San Francisco: Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian St.

Despite Sanu, San Fran needs to plug holes at wide receivers and Quick is a big body that can provide redzone help for Alex Smith.

63. New England: Bruce Irvin, OLB/DE, West Virginia

As mentioned, the pass rush needs to improve in New England and Irvin can continue that improvement.

64. New York Giants: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

With two tight ends injuring their ACLs in the Super Bowl, the Giants needs to replace some missing pieces.

Round 3

65. Indianapolis: Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi St.
66. St. Louis: Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
67. Minnesota: Mitchell Schwartz, OT, Cal
68. Cleveland: Isiah Pead, HB, Cincinnati
69. Tampa Bay: Antonio Allen, DB, South Carolina
70. Washington: Joe Adams, WR, Nebraska
71. Jacksonville: Lamichael James, HB, Oregon
72. Buffalo: Travis Lewis, OLB, Oklahoma
73. Miami: Tommy Streeter, WR, Miami
74. Chicago (CAR): Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia
75. Kansas City: Casey Heyward, CB, Vanderbilt
76. Seattle: Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina
77. Philadelphia: Nick Foles, QB, Arizona
78. New York Jets: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona
79. Oakland (Supplemental Draft)
80. San Diego: Brandon Washington, OG/OT, Miami
81. Chicago: Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
82. Arizona: Tank Carder, ILB, TCU
83. Dallas: Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona St.
84. Tennessee: George Iloka, S, Boise St.
85. Cincinnati: Greg Childs, WR, Arkansas
86. Atlanta: James Brown, OT, Troy
87. Detroit: Bernard Pierce, HB, Temple
88. Pittsburgh: Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn
89. Denver: Ben Jones, OL, Georgia
90. Houston: Vontaze Burfict, ILB, Arizona St.
91. New Orleans: Tony Bergstorm, OT/OG, Utah
92. Green Bay: Ronnie Hillman, HB, Louisiana-Lafayette
93. Baltimore: Dwight Jones, WR, UNC
94. San Francisco: Marcus Fortson, DE/DT, Miami
95. New England: Leonard Johnson, CB, Iowa St.
96. New York Giants: Chris Givens, WR, Wake Forest

MIKE KAYE

With just a week to go before the NFL Combine, Juiced Sports looks at who is rising and falling in the latest mock draft.

First Round

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

As stated in pretty much every mock draft in the universe, this is the obvious pick. Andrew Luck to the Colts with the first pick is the most predictable pick since Carson Palmer to the Bengals in the 2003 NFL Draft. Like Palmer, Luck comes into a situation where everything is in flux. The only difference is Carson didn’t have to replace a living legend.

2. St. Louis Rams: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

I have decided to hold off on trades until right before the draft (gets too convoluted). Kalil will be the pick for the Rams if they stay put (I doubt they will). The former Trojan is the best left tackle prospect since Jake Long and has the ability to surpass the aforementioned in talent. Jason Smith was taken with this same pick a few years ago and has proven to be a bust, who is likely to be cut at some point in the offseason. Jeff Fisher is going to make this team look very different.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma St.

The Vikings would have preferred to land Kalil to protect Christian Ponder, but Blackmon is more than a great consolation prize. The Oklahoma State product is an unquestioned talent and a number one option for a team with very little outlets on offense. Luckily for Leslie Frazier, this is a very deep draft for offensive linemen so he can pick up a tackle in the second round instead of reaching here.

4. Cleveland Browns: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Whether they trade up or not, Robert Griffin III is set to wear a Browns jersey. Griffin is one of the most accurate quarterbacks in the country and that pushes him into the top of the draft. The Baylor standout is a bigger, fast athlete in the mold of Cam Newton with a better passing pedigree. Colt McCoy will have a tough time fending off Griffin in training camp.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trent Richardson, HB, Alabama

This pick will be one of two players: Richardson or Morris Claiborne. Richardson plays a position that has lost its luster in the first round, but after the way the Bucs struggled last year with the running game, Richardson is an option. Tampa Bay needs an eventual replacement for Ronde Barber at cornerback, but this draft has quite a few in the 2^nd round that can start right away. Richardson is a top five talent in this draft and he will go in that range. If not, he’ll fall into the late teens when the Bengals are on the clock.

6. Washington Redskins: Quinton Coples, DE/DT,UNC

As rumors go, the Skins are set to pick-up Peyton Manning after he is released from the Colts. That takes care of the need for a quarterback (if he’s healthy), so the Shanahan’s go defense. Stephen Bowen is a nice player but Washington can definitely upgrade over him. Coples is a tweener but is most likely a 3-4 defensive end due to his lack of burst. That lack of speed has him all over other mock draft boards, but with quarterback taken care of, the Skins go for a guy with great potential.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Rashean Mathis has a big contract, but is still seeking a new one. He is up there in age and his speed has fallen by the wayside. Luckily for the Jags, they have found the perfect replacement. Claiborne is great value here as he could go as early as third overall. Claiborne disappeared from the National Championship game but there is no questioning his talent. With Patrick Peterson’s success last year, Claiborne will likely be compared and benefit from his former teammate. Claiborne is a best cover guy than Peterson and will likely have a better career defensively than Peterson.

8. Miami Dolphins: Reily Reiff, OT, Iowa

The Dolphins would love to have Griffin but unless they get a nice package ready for the Rams, they will likely stay at this spot. Matt Moore proved he can play well when he has time to throw. The merry-go-round at right tackle needs to stop and Reiff can solve that problem. The Iowa big man is exactly that: big. He has athleticism and a mean streak for days, something that the Fins could use on the opposite side of Jake Long.

9. Carolina Panthers: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

While he made one of dumbest mistakes for a draft prospect (arrested for marijuana possession, the charges have been dropped), he is still a premiere talent. Carolina defensive coordinator Sean McDermott is a former defensive backs coach and he would love nothing more than to pair Chris Gamble with Kirkpatrick. Kirkpatrick’s rare size and strength at the position sets him apart from most in this draft. Those attributes will allow him to press with the biggest wide receivers in the league and more importantly, compete with them for the ball.

10. Buffalo Bills: Courtney Upshaw, OLB/DE, Alabama

The Bills have failed with Shawn Merriman and they desperately need a pass rush. The rumors are that Buffalo is switching to a 4-3 from a 3-4, but Upshaw can play in both. This move allows him to reunite with last year’s standout, Marcel Dareus. Upshaw is quick and is relentless when going after quarterbacks. His performance in the National Championship game will go down as one of the best in history and it has no question helped in this draft.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Luke Kuechly, ILB, Boston College

Derrick Johnson has been phenomenal this season but he could use a running mate in the middle of the Kansas City defense.  Kuechly is a little undersized for the position but is a superb tackler and has fantastic instincts. Putting the Boston College prospect in a 3-4 allows him to hide his size and inability to consistently get off blocks. Kuechly has led the BCS in tackles over the past two seasons.

12. Seattle Seahawks: Nick Perry, DE, USC

Seattle is another rumored team for Peyton and another team that would have loved Griffin, but either way there is no quarterback remaining that can be justified for this pick. Chris Cleamons seems to be the only guy that can get pressure on the quarterback and that needs to change if Pete Carroll wants to make the playoffs again. South Carolina’s Melvin Ingram is better at the position but Perry was originally brought into the college ranks by Carroll. The familiarity will pay dividends for Perry.

13. Arizona Cardinals: Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina

Much like Seattle, Arizona needs to get a consistent pass rush if they want to be successful. Ingram is a little raw but he knows how to get off blocks. He will have to convert to linebacker in Arizona’s scheme but could flourish as he is also good against the run.  Ingram may be the best pass rusher in the draft.

14. Dallas Cowboys: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

The Cowboys could be in the market to replace Michael Jenkins who has significantly regressed since his rookie season. Janoris Jenkins is a bit of a knuckle head but so were Pacman Jones, Dez Bryant, and Terrell Owens before Jerry Jones brought them to town. Jenkins might have been the first cornerback taken had he not gotten kicked out of UF but he will still make money in the middle of the first round.

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Devin Still, DT, Penn. State

The Eagles look solid on their defensive front on the surface, but under the water their churning their feet a bit. Defensive tackle has some question marks. Mike Patterson has just had brain surgery, Antonio Dixon is coming off an arm injury, Cullen Jenkins is getting up there in age and Trevor Laws and Derek Landri are free agents. Still is a local guy, who the Eagles have no doubt scouted and his impressive size and speed could make him perfect for Jim Washburn’s wide-9 scheme. A lot is made of the Eagles linebackers but having a third rotational guy in the middle of the line could do wonders.

16. New York Jets: David DeCastro, OG, Stanford

The Jets have a lot of holes and that was no more evident than their game against the eventual Super Bowl Champions. Mark Sanchez needs a ton of time to throw in order to be effective. DeCastro is a fantastic interior lineman and has the ability to take on multiple defenders, especially in the run game.

17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland): Mark Barron, SS, Alabama

Chris Crocker had a pretty terrible stretch of games toward the end of year and the Bengals will likely look for an upgrade. Barron is unquestionably the best at his position in a draft that is pretty weak at safety. With two picks in the first round, look for the Bengals to go need then value in the first round, unless they trade up for Trent Richardson.

18. San Diego Chargers: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

Reports say that the Chargers are set to release Marcus McNeil just a season after giving him a huge contract. Martin has a local connection and was no doubt helped by playing next to DeCastro and protecting Luck. Martin should be able to start relatively soon, if not right away. Philip Rivers struggled when McNeil was out with injuries so Martin could fill an important role for the Bolts.

19. Chicago Bears: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

How long have the Bears been looking for a number one WR? Floyd can provide them with reliable hands and size, something Jay Cutler has missed since he parted from Brandon Marshall. Johnny Knox is coming off a serious back injury and Roy Williams (once again) was a bust, so Floyd fills a major need.

20. Tennessee Titans: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

Interior offensive line should be the theme for the Titans in this draft. They need to do whatever they can to get the most out of the investment they made in Chris Johnson. Last year, CJ2K looked like CJ55 because of the lack of open lanes. Konz fills the void the Titans have had since Kevin Mawae left two seasons ago. Wisconsin is known for producing major talent on the offensive line, so this is a safe but rewarding pick for Tennessee.

21. Cincinnati Bengals: Alfonso Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Nate Clements was a nice one-year fix but the Bengals need an upgrade in that area. Dennard isn’t the fastest guy at the position but he has great instincts and can stay with wide receivers. He has had problems turning his hips much like his former teammate Prince Amukamara, but has the ability to be coached up to make up for physical short-comings. He may eventually join Barron at safety.

22. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta): Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

The best way to get Robert Griffin adjusted to pros is to pair him up with someone he is familiar with. This is about the range that Wright will go. He is an excellent returner and makes big plays at receiver. The Browns have needed a starting-caliber wide receiver for a while and Wright could fill the void.

23. Detroit Lions: Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State

This is a bit of reach for Adams, but the Lions have avoided upgrading their protection for Matt Stafford since he entered the league. Current left tackle, Jeff Backus, could be moved to right tackle to take over for the ineffective Gosder Cherilus. Adams may need to develop a little like Anthony Costanzo last season, but will end up being a great asset down the line.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cordy Glenn, OG, Georgia

Another year, another early pick for the offensive line in Pittsburgh. Rashad Mendenhall will love this pick because Glenn is massive. He will have room for days. A lot is made of Pittsburgh’s blue-collar mentality and Glenn definitely fits that mold. With Big Ben getting injuries on a yearly basis, more protection would be essential for the Steelers.

25. Denver Broncos: Fletcher Cox, DT, Miss. State

Broderick Bunkley resurrected his career in Denver this past season, but he will be a free agent this offseason. To avoid paying a hefty salary to an aging veteran, the Broncos go for Cox. He has proven valuable against both the run and pass in the SEC, which is a plus for Denver. For years, John Fox was without a great defensive tackle in Carolina, so he knows how important the position is.

26. Houston Texans: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

The Texans surprised everyone with their early success in the switch to a 3-4 defense. The only thing the team was lacking was a traditional nose tackle. Poe is a big boy with the ability to take away interior offensive linemen. If Houston can open up the offensive line to rush the passer from the inside, their defense will improve even more.

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans): Whitney Mercilus, OLB/DE, Illinois

A bit early for Mercilus but there is no doubt that he can rush the passer. When Andre Carter went down to injury, very few players stepped up in the sack department. Bill Belichick likes mixing the 3-4 and 4-3 looks and Mercilus can play both. When he puts his hand down, he will be able to get off blocks.

28. Green Bay Packers: Dwayne Allen, TE, Clemson

Jermichael Finley has put the Packers in an awkward position. Do they franchise him or let him walk? Either way, the team has to have tight ends available for Aaron Rodgers. Allen is the best at the position and has the ability to duplicate Finley’s production.

29. Baltimore Ravens: Jerel Worthy, DE/DT, Michigan State

While the Ravens need an eventual replacement for Ray Lewis, they choose to upgrade their defense front. Worthy is another massive lineman in this draft with great feet and even better athleticism. Cory Redding had a nice year with 4.5 sacks at the five-technique but he can be upgraded. Worthy has burst and size that trumps Redding’s so he could be the answer.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers

Braylon Edwards couldn’t make it through the season and Kyle Williams and Ted Ginn are better served in reserve roles. That means the 49ers need a target opposite Michael Crabtree. Sanu is an all-purpose threat with the ability to run, play wildcat, and of course, catch the ball. What is so great about Sanu is his ability to fight for the ball and his intelligence. This year’s wide receiver class is loaded but Sanu makes it in to the bottom of the first round.

31. New England Patriots: Chase Minnifield, CB, Virginia

The New England secondary was constantly blamed for the lacking defense, which is weird because Belichick seems to draft defensive backs early almost every year. This draft will be no different. Minnifield is the son of a former NFL player (Frank) and has decent size for the position. He has average speed for the position but he has been a phenomenal cover guy for Virginia.

32. New York Giants: Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

Both Jake Ballard and Travis Beckum tore their ACLs in the Super Bowl so they are likely to miss next season. Fleener would be an upgrade over both, even if they were healthy. Eli Manning was fantastic this year but he could really use a target that will go across the middle.

Second Round

33. St. Louis Rams: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

Alshon Jeffery has great size with speed to match would be a number one receiver for a team desperately needing to stretch the field.

34. Indianapolis Colts: Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

Pierre Garcon and Reggie Wayne are both free agents and Andrew Luck needs someone to throw to. Randle has good size and can make a play or two.

35. Minnesota Vikings: Chandler Jones, DE, Syracuse

The Vikings can’t just settle for Brian Robison across from Jared Allen. Jones is quick and has a great motor.

36. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

The Bucs passed on a corner in the first and get good value with Gilmore in the second. Gilmore is a ballhawk and is a first round talent.

37. Cleveland Browns: Orson Charles, TE, Georgia

Ben Watson is old and Evan Moore can block, but Orson Charles can make plays.

38. Jacksonville Jaguars: Juron Criner, WR, Arizona

The Jaguars are another team that really needs a starting-caliber pass catcher. Criner had a huge game in the Senior Bowl and will build on his stock at the combine.

39. Washington Redskins: Ryan Tannenhill, QB, Texas A&M

If Peyton comes to town, he’ll only be there for a few years. Tannenhill is coming off an injury and he would be best served learning from Manning for two years.

40. Miami Dolphins: Nick Toon, WR, Wisconsin

Brian Hartline and Davone Bess are nice players but they aren’t starters. Toon has the ability to get the job done across from Brandon Marshall.

41. Buffalo Bills: David Wilson, HB, Virginia Tech

The Bills want to use C.J. Spiller in the return game and as a wide receiver and Fred Jackson is in the last year of his deal. Wilson has played extremely well at Virginia Tech and could be a good backup to Jackson.

42. Carolina Panthers: Zach Brown, OLB, UNC

Brown is a local guy who can provide healthy legs at position that has been banged up for years. The Tar Heel prospect is a prototypical weakside linebacker.

43. Seattle Seahawks: David Lavonte, OLB, Nebraska

David Hawthorne is likely to leave in free agency, with K.J. Wilson sliding into the MIKE position. Lavonte would serve as the weakside guy and replace Wilson.

44. Kansas City Chiefs: Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech

Dwayne Bowe is a free agent and the Chiefs are light on depth at the receiver position. Hill is big (6’4”) and could be a great compliment or starter for the Chiefs.

45. Dallas Cowboys: Brandon Washington, OG, Miami

The Cowboys need to continue to upgrade their offensive line. Demarco Murray and Felix Jones need more lanes to run through.

46. Philadelphia Eagles: Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State

The Eagles have well-publicized issues at linebacker. Wagner would be a good option at strong and weakside linebacker.

47. New York Jets: Doug Martin, HB, Boise State

LT isn’t coming back to New York. Martin is a dynamic runner with the ability to catch passes out of the backfield.

48. New England Patriots (from OAK): Chris Polk, HB, Washington

New England struggled to run against the Giants, Polk can replace BenJarvis Green-Ellis and join Steven Ridley in the backfield for the next few years.

49. San Diego Chargers: Dont’a Hightower, ILB, Alabama

Takeo Spikes is near the end of his rope and Hightower is significant value at 49. Hightower has problems in coverage but can fill the thumper role in San Diego.

50. Chicago Bears: Zebrie Sanders, OT, FSU

J’Marcus Webb is laughable as left tackle and while Sanders had an awful Senior Bowl week, he is an upgrade.

51. Philadelphia Eagles (from ARI): Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall

Juqua Parker is on the way out and Brandon Graham has proved anything. Curry fits the Washburn mold and can get to the quarterback.

52. Tennessee Titans: Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa State

Again, the Titans need serious offensive linemen. Osemele can open up the aforementioned CJ2K lanes.

53. Cincinnati Bengals: Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia

The Bengals got a replacement for Nate Clements in the first and they get their replacement for Pacman (Adam) Jones in the second.

54. Detroit Lions: Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

This is another major need for the now-respectable Lions. Hosley isn’t a household name but a good player, who at the very least can play the nickel role.

55. Atlanta Falcons: Billy Winn, DE, Boise State

Ray Edwards was big free agency bust and John Abraham is at the backend of his career. Winn is a great guy for depth and to eventually start.

56. Pittsburgh Steelers: Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana

The Steelers secondary showed its age in playoffs and Johnson gives them some much needed youth.

57. Denver Broncos: Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State

He may be 27, but if Brandon Weeden was 23, he would be a top 20 pick. John Elways still isn’t sold on Tim Tebow and Weeden would be great competition.

58. Houston Texans: Dwight Jones, WR, UNC

Dwight Jones can spread the field and is an upgrade over Jacoby Jones and Kevin Walters. Andre Johnson has had a lot of injuries as of late, so depth is a need regardless.

59. New Orleans Saints: Cam Johnson, DE, Virginia

With Steve Spagnuolo in town, the pass rush just became much more important. Johnson can be added to the ever-growing defensive line in New Orleans.

60.Green Bay Packers: Andre Branch, DE, Clemson

Ryan Pickett was inconsistent this season and couldn’t get to the quarterback. Branch can join the Packers defense and give it a bit more push.

61. Baltimore Ravens: Vontze Burfict, ILB, Arizona State

Burfict needs to be tamed to be great and who better to tame him than Ray Lewis? Burfict can come off the bench for a year and then be Lewis’ inevitable replacement.

62. San Francisco 49ers: Josh Norman, CB, Coastal Carolina

Carlos Rodgers was great this season but he is also a free agent and Shawntae Spencer is likely to get cut, so Norman can add depth to an ever-changing position of need in the Bay Area.

63.New England Patriots: Bobby Massie, OT, Mississippi

Matt Light is the only other Patriot to have been to all the Super Bowls in Tom Brady era. That means he is getting up there in age and may need to be relieved sooner than later.

64. New York Giants: Isaiah Pead, HB, Cincinnai

Brandon Jacobs is looking for his next contract and it won’t likely come from the Giants. Pead isn’t similar in size to Jacobs but can run in between the tackles and get that extra yardage.

Throw out the record books, throw out the scandal, and throw out the fact that Joe Paterno is one of the most well known coaches on Earth.  Throw out everything he’s accomplished, everything that eventually brought him down, and your opinions on what his legacy will come to be.

And focus on the fact that no matter what you think of the man they call Joe Pa, that today is a sad day.

Today, we found out that the man who once seemed destined to coach forever, was on the verge of leaving the world forever. The Citizen’s Voice reports that Paterno is near death.  Even his greatest detractors, and the people involved with the Jerry Sandusky scandal still very much swirling around Penn State’s beaten and bruised program and the many who were affected, couldn’t have wanted this.

They used to say that Bobby Bowden and Joe Paterno hung around as long as they did in the coaching game, because if they left it would be their demise from the world.  Football gave them purpose, football kept them going, football was in many ways, the world they had built for themselves.

So when FSU decided to move on, cutting Bowden loose just a few seasons ago, many wondered if he could live without football.  So far, so good.  People wondered the same for years about Paterno, whose health had been failing in recent years. Paterno is in serious condition it’s being reported, just months removed from his November 9th firing at Penn State.

It was just days after that fateful night that Paterno was diagnosed with cancer.  Now the radiation and chemotherapy, which has weakened him to his bare bones, appears to be a dead end without hope, leading to a final goodbye. We last saw Joe Pa outside in his house, appearing to be in good spirits, the night he was removed as head coach of Penn State, a position he held from 1966-2011. That memory will be seared in my mind for a long time.  The riots, the outpouring of support, the idolization a community had of a football coach, worthy or not.  You remember where you were on nights like that. I remember where I was when 9-11 happened.  I remember where I was when Osama Bin Laden was killed.  And I will remember where I was when Joe Pa came out of his house to say, what almost amounted to be his final goodbyes.

Who could have thought that night, when he and his wife waved goodbye to a crowd of adoring and bitter fans, that it would be his true farewell.  Everything has gone downhill ever since.

While trivial in nature, Joe Pa left the game of college football as the all-time wins leader in NCAA FBS with 409. He stands alone as the only coach to win 400 games and 5 of his Penn State teams won major bowl games. In 2007, Joe Pa was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Today, down to possibly his final few hours, maybe days, his longtime wife, Sue called close family and friend to say their goodbyes.

A call no one ever wants to make.

I never met Joe Pa the person, so I can’t make a judgement call on who he was and what he stood for.  What I know is this: it’s always terribly sad to say goodbye to a loved one, no matter what their celebrity status. At the end of the day, we’re all just people, and we’re all equally vulnerable.

And that’s all there is to it.

Paterno is 85.

The BCS Championship is over. Mercifully. Or to put it as the championship hats read: done! As in the SEC can have it’s moment in the sun, while it pours on the other side. Did LSU’s no-show, help propel us closer to a Plus-One? Did Alabama put up the greatest defensive performance in BCS history? Does Honey Badger care? Did Alabama just kick another Field goal? And where in the word was Jarrett Lee?

Juiced Sports Radio breaks it all down. Plus, is Oklahoma State worthy of #2 once more?

The top 2 teams in the land have arrived in New Orleans, where on Monday January 9th they will clash heads in a rematch of their scintillating (cue the sarcasm) Game of the Century: a bone-crushing 9-6 offensive shootout, which sent offense back to the 40’s (hey look, there’s Tim Tebow and the Broncos!)

And while ESPN has the hype train rolling, trying to build anticipation for a game that only the analysts seemed to want, it’s hard to get jacked up for two teams that we’ve already seen.  Like that terrible old MTV reality show, Next, we’d like to stick this matchup back on the bus and try again.  But it’s what we’re stuck with, so what the heck.

After 4 BCS bowl games of pure, unadulterated offensive explosion, the final game of the 2011 college football season will be settled by two powerful defenses.  The two offenses were invited to come along, but they had to find their own ride, because it’s been the D that’s carried both of these teams to the last step.

So no, the 308 combined points we’ve seen in the Rose, Fiesta, Sugar, and Orange (West Virginia just scored again!) will make the BCS Championship game look like the ugly duckling, but in a strange way, after the video game numbers we’ve been seeing, it might actually be — wait for it, wait for it, refreshing to see some real defense.  The 77 total points average per game is likely to be significantly lower when the Tide and Tigers meet for a second time, even if the two offenses have had a month to prepare (which they have).

We know the Tigers deserve their #1 spot, and the bowl season has only further cemented that lofty notion:

Just look at that schedule and drool over the remarkable strength of teams that LSU has plowed through.

Oregon just won the Rose Bowl.  West Virginia just won the Orange Bowl.  Mississippi State won the Music City Bowl. Florida won the Gator Bowl. Auburn won the ChicFilABowl. Alabama is in the national championship, Arkansas plays Kansas State in the Cotton Bowl tonight, and Georgia lost an epic 3 OT thriller to Michigan State in the Outback Bowl.

Which means of the 13 teams LSU played this year:

- 5 teams won their bowl game (2 won a BCS game)
-  1 lost their bowl game (Georgia)
- 1 plays tonight (Arkansas)
- 5 of their opponents failed to make a bowl game (Northwestern St, Kentucky, Tennessee, Western Kentucky, and Ole Miss).

If Arkansas wins tonight, LSU can lay claim to beating 3 of the AP’s final top 5.  That’s insane.

And that’s before LSU even takes the field.

That said it’s hard to argue — even with a loss — that anyone was better than LSU this year. The voters are going to have quite the dilemna if the Tide pull off the win.

A special thanks to the fine people at H&R Block who emailed me this nifty little infographic (if you’ve followed Juiced throughout the years you know how much we love infographs)! This one is particularly neat in not just its design but in the depth of its information. So while you prepare for LSU-Alabama after a slew of video arcade game scores, check this thing out. And impress your friends with your newfound sports knowledge (chart after the jump, click on it to zoom in).

It’s been a fun, crazy, and as usual, controversial season in the wonderful world of college football.  That didn’t just go for the teams involved.  The Heisman trophy, the most coveted individual award in sports arguably is up for grabs tonight.  The field has been narrowed to  a fantastic five, but there were plenty others who were more than deserving for the little guy with the stiff arm.

When tabulating our Heisman winner, Juiced Sports writers and staff weren’t limited to just voting for Robert Griffin III, Andrew Luck, Montee Ball, Trent Richardson, and Tyrann Mathieu.  So who did we choose?  Our votes after the jump.

Mitch Blatt

1. Robert Griffin III / QB / Baylor

Robert Griffin III had the best season and led Baylor into the top 25. He did it in the big games, too, throwing for 430 yards against Texas A&M, 425 against Oklahoma State, 479 against Oklahoma and 320 against Texas.

2. Montee Ball / RB/ Wisconsin
3. Andrew Luck / QB / Stanford

Brad Clark

1. Robert Griffin III / QB / Baylor

RGIII took home the Davey O’Brien Trophy on Thursday and seems he is the frontrunner for the Heisman on Saturday. The junior signal caller has posted just shy of 4,000 passing yards, 36 TD passes to 6 INT’s and has ran in 9 more scores. I’m pretty sure that should do it.

2. Trent Richardson / RB / Alabama
3. Andrew Luck / QB / Stanford

Scott Jacobs

1. Matt Barkley / RB / USC

I was absolutely baffled when Barkley was shafted by the Heisman voting committee.  The number one QB out of high school, Barkley finally lived up to his lofty billing this season, quietly leading USC to a 10-2 record and a top 5 ranking.  Barkely threw for 3528 yards this season to go along with 39 TDs and just 7 picks.  But here’s why he gets my vote: USC was ineligible to play for the post-season, which for some might’ve made it difficult to stay motivated.  Not Barkley.  He simply got better as the season went on, and so did the Trojans.  If you don’t have to be a national title contender to win the Heisman (see Griffin III), why can’t Barkley get consideration?  And for my money, he might just be the best player in college football when it’s all said and done.

2. Tyrann Mathieu / CB / LSU
3. Andrew Luck / QB / Stanford

Mike Kaye

1. Trent Richardson / QB / Alabama

His team is in the National Championship game and he is the best offensive weapon on the team. If you look at the QB and WR play on Alabama, it is obvious that without Richardson, the team is devoid of play-makers and would solely rely on their defense.

2. Robert Griffin III / QB / Baylor
3. Andrew Luck / QB / Stanford

Shane Smith

1. Trent Richardson / RB / Alabama

2. Case Keenum / QB / Houston
3. Robert Griffin III / QB / Baylor

Photo: AP

West Virginia is not a football powerhouse.  But the soon to be newest member of the Big 12 next year, is a name.  They’ve been on the BCS stage before.  Remember their 13-9 loss at home to Pitt?  That cost them a berth in the national title game in 2007.  Pat White and Steve Slaton were prime-time names in college football for years.  West Virginia has been here before.

Plus, they’re 9-3 (respectable enough I suppose in the whacky world of BCS automatic qualifying) and they’re ‘wait for it, wait for it,’ actually ranked! Yeehaw.  So after the Mountaineers quietly held on to beat a disappointing USF team in Tampa last night, assuring them at last a share of the comedically mediocre Big East, it kept hope alive that the Big East wouldn’t be the first team to send not only an unranked team to the BCS, but an unranked 5 loss team.

Yup, Louisville completed their season by also beating USF 34-24, assuring themselves of a Big East title as well.  Louisville is 7-5, has losses to both Marshall and Florida International (though FIU is halfway decent this year) and lost 3 games in a row in October.  They might be a nice comeback story, but they’re the nightmare scenario the Big East and BCS has to to be dreading.

So here’s where we stand: All the cards appear to be in Cincinnati’s hands.  The Bearcats (remember them/wish you could go back in time Brian Kelly?) can also clinch a tie in the Big East with a win over Connecticut this Saturday, which would give us a three way conundrum in the Big Least.  Should Cincy drop the ball and allow the Huskies to prevail with a win, it would hand the Cardinals a BCS berth via the fact that they won the head to head matchup over West Virginia.

A 7-5 team in the BCS?  While a team like Boise State (no chance for the BCS), South Carolina, Georgia, Wisconsin perhaps etc. falls to a 2nd and 3rd tier bowl.  People have been clamoring for change.  This could be that moment.  If Cincy wins, thereby creating the afformentioned 3-way tie, the winner of the BCS berth would be awarded to the highest rated BCS team.  Since West Virginia is the only ranked team amongst the group, they’d get the trip to Sun Life Stadium, against either Clemson or Virginia Tech.  While far from a spectacular matchup, it’d be a heck of a lot better than say Clemson versus Louisville (yikes!)

People clamoring for the BCS to whisk their automatic qualifying status away from the Big East may actually get their wish, as the higher ups may be forced to take action should this embarrassment occur.

While far from a star, West Virginia brings credibility to the conference with a 9-3 record.  A 7-5 Louisville team in the Orange Bowl just might bring shame.  And the worst BCS ratings in … history?

The world has gone mad.  First Rebecca Black’s horrific song, ‘Friday’ which spawned a plethora of hate and hilarious spoofs, and eventually got her on national news, has re-emerged just in-time for the holidays.  Black isn’t in Kohl’s new commercial, but the song is clearly molded in her well scolded name.  And trust me, it’s awful.

Then, Mississippi State goes out and hashtags (literally) their end-zone, for Saturday’s Egg Bowl.  Which of course goes glowingly with their awkward gold numbered uniforms (see the unis after the jump), which read (you guessed it) Hail State on the back.  Hail, the higher ups at Mississippi State that they didn’t do the unthinkable and (gasp) hashtag their uniform.  Though you know there’s someone sitting there watching all this, going, ‘we could do that.  We totally could.’

And on a uniform note, why does every college football team striving to be cool, feel the weird need to put gradients in their uniforms? Gradients only look good in print ads and on HD.  They don’t look good on football jerseys (cough, cough Maryland).

So what does this mean?  Is Twitter paying for this?  Is Mississippi State doing this to bolster their name?  Is this some unique P.R. stunt to get the nation talking about a hashtag?  Is this the real life version of a sponsored tweet?  We still don’t know the answers to this, but I will tell you this: it’s brilliant.  It’s Maryland flag uniforms brilliant.  People are talking about it.  Afterall, in today’s world, Twitter now equals people talking.

As for the 50 year old, 20 year season ticket holder who looks at the endzone on Saturday in Starkville and asks, “What the hell is that,?” well… this isn’t for him (or her).  It’s probably aimed at the recruits.  If you can’t buy Cam Newton, maybe you can attract a star with a pound sign.

You knew Twitter was rolling when during the MLB Playoffs, baseball simply posted a #POSTSEASON behind the backstop for every game and the millennial generation never questioned it.  Hashtagging things is becoming as American as apple pie.  Or a stupid Kardashian story. It’s part of the pop culture. To quote NPH in How I Met Your Mother, “Wait for it, Wait for it,” it’ll probably soon be in the dictionary. If ‘Google’ is, #hashtag or #hashtagging has to be on its way.

I’m not sure if that’s scary or fascinating: probably a mix of both.

Nevertheless, going back to Mississippi State, it’s a fascinating idea that could have social media repercussions on how Twitter and Facebook and future social media sites operate and get their name out there.  For a school caught in the doldrums of mediocrity and nailed to the corner of irrelevance and invisible (as it pertains to the SEC and the college football spectrum) it’s a bold move which will be heard.

And yup, tweeted.