Charles Davis

Football’s postseason…or is it?

Football season in the rear view mirror. Or not.

How about the great game of football? I was excited to finish my NFL Draft duties, and was giddy about the idea of a break to recharge my battery. The sad news about Junior Seau, who took his life, last week, put that break on hold. I did not know him well, but to hear those that did talk about him, and to see and feel their pain? It was heart-wrenching. It touches your heart, and we become quickly mindful to hug those close, tell them you love them, and vow to do whatever you can to help them (and you) be happy and healthy. 

Saints elsewhere

We just can’t get away from the New Orleans Saints issues. The punishment that Commissioner Goodell levied upon the players was not meekly accepted, and is being fought aggressively by them, their advisors, and of course the Players Union. This is one case where the NFL is not speaking, but the players are, and frankly, they should. Let’s see the system pushed to its limit by players who believe that they have been wronged. Let’s hear everything before rendering a final decision. It’s only fair, and I applaud the players for essentially saying, “I want to be heard.” One thing to keep in mind: just because NFL personnel aren’t talking, it doesn’t mean that they won’t have something to say during the appeal. 

Playoffs? You talkin’ about playoffs?

On the college level there is much talk about how a playoff is coming, and there is much rejoicing throughout the nation. In my college years that would have thrilled me, but as an adult, I’m ambivalent. What I do know is that if decision-makers want a playoff, let’s really have one. A four- team deal is dipping a toe into water, and the arguments about who got left out will lead to even bigger complaints. I say, if you want a playoff, let’s have one. Sixteen teams played on campus sites until the National Championship Game (you might be able to talk me into neutral sites with the final four teams ). My angst? If that comes to pass, the Bowl system, of which I am a proponent, would be in serious trouble. Some of my great memories as a student-athlete stem from Bowl games and those experiences.

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