From New York to LA

From coast to coast, the sports world is going crazy. It's my job to sort it out:

The New York Mets are offering up access to...... Mr. Met! That's right, for the small price of 20 million dollars, you can be a part owner of the Mets. This wonderful opportunity comes with all sorts of perks, highlighted by the access to Mr. Met, the team's mascot. Other "perks" include business cards and free parking. Unfortunately even with the hefty price, you still have to buy your own tickets to the games. Ouch.

In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the University of Pittsburgh has hired their fourth coach in just over a year. Paul Chryst, Wisconsin's offensive coordinator is the new man for the job.  He turned Wisconsin's mediocre offense into one that has ranked in the top 5 nationally the last two seasons.  I wish him the best of luck, as Pittsburgh has chewed through coaches faster then Trent Richardson chews through a MAC defense.

Moving a bit west to the great city of Columbus, Ohio, home of THE Ohio State University.  However, this is a new Ohio State, one that is living under the cloud of a bowl ban.  The NCAA made it's ruling on the Jim Tressel issue. The penalties were some scholarship losses for the football program, and a bowl ban for the 2012 season.  In my opinion, OSU should have self-imposed a bowl ban for this season, a year in which the team wasn't up to the typical OSU standards.  Had they self imposed this year, they would be looking at a fresh start in the Urban Meyer era, with a chance at a Big Ten championship, and a potential BCS bowl bid.

Things are heating up in LA.  Today, USC quarterback Matt Barkley has decided to stay for his senior season.  He led the Trojans to a 10-2 record and the number 5 ranking in the nation. Because of the sanctions against USC, they were unable to play in a bowl game, but those sanctions will be lifted after this season is completed.  I think this is the right move for Barkley, and USC is now a definite National Title contender.  The Los Angeles Clippers beat the Los Angeles Lakers Wednesday night 108-103. Though this is the NBA preseason, it's a huge step forward for the Clippers. As for me, I'll believe it when Kobe plays.

The bowl games are getting closer to names I actually recognize, NBA is right around the corner, and conference play for College Basketball is about to start. Things are looking good! 'Til next time.