The NCAA rejected Indiana University's appeal and upheld nine-game suspensions for two freshmen men's basketball players for receiving benefits from a "booster." The benefactor was declared a "booster" because he gave $185 to the school 20 years ago.
Next up as the NCAA investigates IU history for violations: Did another 1992 "booster" at Nick's actually buy a round of cold ones for Pat Graham and Damon Bailey?
One glaring difference
Danny Hope was fired as Purdue football coach after finishing 6-6 and becoming bowl eligible. During his four years, Hope could not match the success of predecessor Joe Tiller for one primary reason: He didn't start Drew Brees at quarterback.
Money for nothing, Chizik is free
Auburn football coach Gene Chizik was fired two years after winning the national championship. He will be paid $208,334 a month not to coach Auburn for the next three years. As a result, the Gene Chizik Sympathy Fund has been discontinued.
Exit of the Superfan
New York Jets superfan “Fireman Ed,” announced he will no longer attend home games as "Fireman Ed." He had drawn ire from fans for wearing a Mark Sanchez jersey. Expected to take his place will be “Substitute Teacher Skip,” wearing a Tim Tebow jersey.
Trouble brewing in Seattle?
Seattle Seahawks defensive backs Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner face four-game suspensions for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy, sources told ESPN.
Apparently, the NFL isn't buying their claims that the tests were the result of Starbucks' new Grande Juiced Latte.
Flag Day canceled
The Cleveland Browns canceled a “white flag” giveaway promotion because fans claimed it implied surrender. In an unrelated move, the Detroit Lions took away coach Jim Schwartz's red flag.
Commercial break for Peyton
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning had a concussion test after hitting his head on the ground in a win over the Kansas City Chiefs. He was cleared to reenter the game by correctly answering the question, “How many pizzas will PapaJohn's give away this season?”
