Thursday Evening Links: A Best of The Web Nightcap

LenDale White did a radio interview in which he says he finds it "unbelievable" that Pete Carroll and AD, Mike Garrett had no idea that Bush was doing dirty deeds while at USC—so do I.

T Kyle King of DawgSports.com predicts a South Carolina win over Georgia this season. I don't see it that way, of course, but I can understand the argument.

Lawrence Taylor is in a lot of trouble after being indicted on charges that he raped a 16-year old girl—tragic.

Ben Roethlisberger is trying to recoup his tarnished image but Hines Ward thinks he needs to start by explaining his actions to the guys he leads onto the field first.

I expect big things for Georgia OLB, Justin Houston, too this season under Todd Grantham.

The 3-4 defense is gaining steam in college football as 14 Division I schools will use the scheme in 2010.

The Sporting News has published the full Nick Saban interview in which he discusses his plans for the future and whether or not he thinks Alabama can go undefeated in the SEC again in 2010.

Barbara Dooley, mom of new Vol coach Derek Dooley, is making her way around the Orange Nation with pride and lots to say—much to her son's dismay.

The SEC offered both Texas A&M and Oklahoma at the height of the expansion madness.

The Atlanta Falcons Michael Turner was too big for his britches last season. He admits he was a step slower and the weight, although not a factor, didn't help much in his struggles to get to 1,000 yards last season. 

I don't know if it's a good idea for the Oregon Ducks to bring in players who have a nose for trouble but I guess Chip Kelly is okay with having the D.A. on speed dial just in case he needs to get another guy out of jail.

The NCAA has invited 20 coaches to it's 2010 Expert Academy. The program is meant to assist coaches in career advancement through mentoring, networking, and exposure opportunities. Some of this year's invitees include Duke associate head coach, Ronald Middleton and Miami (OH) assistant football coach, Kijuan Ware.

2010 Trojan commit, Seantrel Henderson, is back to his drama queen ways again. Seriously, why does anyone want this kid anymore? He's becoming more of a head case by the day and his father is obviously enjoying all the attention too.

I don't know that Joe Pa will ever retire from his post as Penn State head coach. He's 83 and doesn't seem to be in any hurry to ride off into the sunset.

The AMC network is in talks with The Blind Side director to develop a new television series that revolves around a college football coach who's trying to turn a flailing program into a winner.

The Lingerie Football League is reason numero uno why women can't get any respect from football players as professional journalists. I cannot begin to tell you how offended I am by the venture—please.

Former Oregon Duck, Jeremiah Masoli, Proves You Can't Fix 'Stupid'

I have only one question for Jeremiah Masoli: "How stupid are you?"....No, I'm completely serious.
For those of you who have not heard the news, Jeremiah Masoli, the formerly suspended quarterback of the Oregon Ducks is now the dismissed, former starter of the Oregon Ducks after being arrested yet again.

To recap, back in March of 2010, Masoli and a former teammate were charged with second-degree burglary after they stole, among other things, a couple of Apples and a guitar. 

Okay, I'm being a bit glib with the Apple reference; they stole a couple of MacBooks and a guitar.

Anyway, after being forgiven for his trespasses by head coach, Chip Kelly, Masoli was extended a second-chance. He was going to be allowed to redeem himself by staying pristine, clean, and out of trouble.

Kelly even allowed him back to take some snaps with the team during spring practices. It was interpreted by some as a show of maturity by Masoli. There he was, providing not only advice to those who were vying to take his place but a window to 2011 as well. The message was clear: he was gone for 2010 but would definitely be looking to reclaim his spot in 2011.

There was some talk of a possible transfer, but it was clear that his best course of action was to stay at Oregon, take his one-year suspension, and then try return in 2011.

That was the plan.

Well, Masoli must have cement for sense because on Monday night, he was arrested again. What’s funny is the offense might have been dismissed as a minor traffic violation—he might have even had the chance to talk his way out of it altogether—if not for the marijuana and the suspended license.

What was he thinking?

Well, obviously he wasnt, but...really, it just brings me back to my original question: "How stupid do you have to be?"

I try hard not to ever bash on a player but this isn't a 17-year old high school student or an 18-year old freshman. This is a guy who stood to make a pretty penny at the next level if he could follow up on a great sophomore season. A season in which he threw for more than 2,000 yards while rushing for more than 600—scoring 28 total touchdowns—leading his team to both the Rose Bowl and a Pac-10 Championship.

Now, he’s just another cautionary tale of what happens when stupid is as stupid does.

He may still get his shot at playing football again, possibly even in 2010, now that he has no allegiances for 2011.

The FCS (Division II Football Championship Subdivision) has been kind to other athletes who couldn't seem to stay out of trouble—see Willie Williams and Ryan Perriloux—and if Masoli ends up going that route—good luck to him.

As for the Ducks, the era of Nate Costa can now, officially, begin as there is simply no longer a need to look over your shoulder at Oregon anymore—the thrill is definitely gone.