Sports Illustrated: Jim Tressel’s history of NCAA violations started at YSU

Yesterday Jim Tressel was forced to resign/stepped down as Ohio State's head football coach. Tressel leaves OSU amid allegations that he lied to NCAA investigators about violations from a tattoo-parlor scandal.

Being the Marshall Thundering Blog I have no interest in further exploring Tressel’s wrong doings at Ohio State. What I am interested in is Tressel’s history of deception at Youngstown State.

In the early 90’s their was no bigger rivalry in division I-AA football than Marshall and Youngstown State. In a span of seven years (1991-1997) either Marshall or Youngstown State appeared in the I-AA title game. During those years Marshall won two NCAA championships while Youngstown captured four. Jim Tressel was the coach of those YSU teams and lead the Penguins to three championship games against Marshall, wining two of them.

According to Sports Illustrated those Youngstown State teams committed numerous NCAA violations. Most of those violations center around former Pengiuns star quarterback Ray Isaac and prominent YSU booster Mickey Monus.

From SI:

In 1988, according to court documents from a jury-tampering trial involving Mickey Monus, a wealthy school trustee and the founder of the Phar-Mor chain of drug stores, Tressel had called Monus about arranging a job for Isaac. The player and the CEO had never met, but Isaac told SI that he had heard of Monus's "philanthropist-type hand" from two basketball players. At his first meeting with Monus, Isaac received $150. According to the court documents, by the time he left Youngstown State, in 1992, Isaac had collected more than $10,000 in cash and checks from Monus and Monus's associates and employees.

For more on Jim Tressel’s history of NCAA violations at Youngstown read the entire Sports Illustrated report here: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/magazine/05/30/jim.tressel/index.html#ixzz1NwLxGZ94

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/31/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall football: Holliday talks post-spring depth chart

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201105301062

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Current football depth chart. Discuss.

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/31/current-football-depth-chart-discuss/

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Russ Wilson, Cam Newton and Brian Anderson

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/28/russ-wilson-cam-newton-and-brian-anderson/

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: HHS field perfect for MU baseball in short run

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1656189571/Chuck-Landon-HHS-field-perfect-for-MU-baseball-in-short-run

From the Herald Dispatch, C-USA fields 4 teams in NCAA baseball tourney

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1656189569/C-USA-fields-4-teams-in-NCAA-baseball-tourney

Out Today - 5/30/11

The Marshall Thundering Blog will not be updated 5/30/11. Enjoy your memorial day, we will return to regularly scheduled blogging tomorrow.

Marshall Football: Bluefield’s Joe Woodrum to walk on with Herd

Joe Woodrum, a 6’5, 230 pound wide receiver from Bluefield High School (WV) has accepted a preferred walk on spot at Marshall. Woodrum only played football his senior year at Bluefield, catching 22 passes for 580 yards and five touchdowns.

For more on Woodrum follow the links below:

Bluefield Daily Telegraph article on Woodrum’s commitment, http://news.google.com/news/more?hl=en&sugexp=ldymls&xhr=t&q=marshall+university&cp=12&um=1&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&biw=1003&bih=545&wrapid=tlif130650217540410&ie=UTF8&ncl=dz4MwFr2aP0J9TMFKKKY8hwEEVG9M&ei=J6TfTbWeBMydgQf_l8DTCg&sa=X&oi=news_result&ct=more-results&resnum=1&ved=0CCwQqgIwAA

WBOY.com article on Woodrum’s commitment, http://www.wboy.com/story.cfm?func=viewstory&storyid=100334

Bluefield Daily Telegraph story on Woodrum’s transition from basketball to football, http://bdtonline.com/localsports/x892104223/Woodrum-making-an-impact-in-gridiron-debut/stripped?device=mobile

MaxPreps.com profile, http://www.maxpreps.com/athletes/oFmSp24W6U2xLQHdHeNVgA/football-fall-10/profile-joe-woodrum.htm

Hudl.com profile (Video), http://www.hudl.com/athlete/159390/joe-woodrum

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/27/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall doubles duo defeated at NCAA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x580912169/Marshall-doubles-duo-defeated-at-NCAA

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/26/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd’s Curry Picked on All American Team

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105251384

From the Charleston Gazette, 10 Picked for MU Hall of Fame

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105251382

From the Charleston Gazette, On Herrion, a strength coach, scholarships and Chipper Jones

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201105251097

From the Herald Dispatch, Chaump leads 2011 Marshall Hall of Fame induction class

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541159033/Chaump-leads-2011-Marshall-Hall-of-Fame-induction-class

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall's Kissell bounced from NCAAS

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1280373159/Marshalls-Kissell-bounced-from-NCAAS

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Tulane has boorish big mouth for its coach

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541159027/Tulane-has-boorish-big-mouth-for-its-coach

Those in glass houses should not throw stones

As you know Tulane baseball coach Rick Jones received a reprimand from Conference USA for making disparaging public comments about Marshall University during a live-audience radio show in New Orleans.

If you have not read the story check the Charleston Gazette for full details: http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105241284?page=2&build=cache

What upset me most about Jones misplaced tirade was this comment:

"What do they (Marshall University) bring to our league? What do they bring to our league? And I'm talking about across the board. Things need to be cleaned up there."

That comment brings me back to the title of this post, those in glass houses should not throw stones. What exactly, if any thing, does Tulane bring to C-USA? Lets take a closer look at Green Wave athletics to find out.

The two biggest sports in college athletics are football and men’s basketball. Since Marshall joined C-USA Tulane has been awful in both. The Green Wave had to over come major issues after hurricane Katrina but both programs were not performing well before hand.

Tulane’s last winning season in football was 2002. Marshall has played Tulane four times since joining C-USA and defeated the Green Wave in every meeting. Tulane plays it’s home football games in the cavernous Louisiana Super Dome to little fan fair. Despite a 13 – 35 record as Tulane’s football coach Bob Toledo still has a job.

The basketball program is even worse. In 2009 Dave Dickerson was fired as Tulane’s head basketball coach after compiling a record of 71-85 over five seasons. Dickerson was replaced by Ed Conroy who had one winning season to his name before taking over at Tulane. This past year Conroy could only manage three conference wins and a 13 – 17 over all record. Tulane play’s its home basketball game at Fogelman Arena, a woefully inadequate facility built in 1933 with only 3,600 seats. The school is building a new basketball practice facility but games will remain at Fogelman.

Tulane recently added two athletic programs to comply with the NCAA’s minimum requirement of 16 teams for division one status. Both of the sports added by Tulane, woman’s bowling and sand volleyball are not sanctioned by C-USA. Woman’s bowling is only supported by 33 division one programs and sand volleyball was just recognized as a NCAA sport less than a year ago.

So I ask you Tulane fans, if such a thing exist, what do you bring to C-USA?

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/25/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Tulane Baseball Coach Reprimanded for Comments about MU

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105241284

From the Charleston Gazette, Thomas Leaves Marshall to Begin Pro Career

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105241305

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Herd's Johnny Thomas to test pro basketball waters

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201105241347

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Penn State blog breaks down the candidates

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/24/penn-state-blog-breaks-down-the-candidates/

From the Herald Dispatch, Johnny Thomas is leaving Marshall

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541158763/Johnny-Thomas-is-leaving-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, MU tennis makes another trip to NCAA tennis tournament

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541158761/MU-tennis-makes-another-trip-to-NCAA-tennis-tournament

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's Socorro on C-USA's 2nd team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541158753/MUs-Socorro-on-C-USAs-2nd-team

From the Herald Dispatch, MU athletics score well on NCAA report card

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541158759/MU-athletics-score-well-on-NCAA-report-card

From the WV Metro News, Payton & Parker Not Selected

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45666

ESPN’s Andy Katz: Marshall potential NCAA tournament team, Herrion will stay put

ESPN college basketball analysis Andy Katz called Marshall a potential NCAA tournament team for 2012 and said coach Tom Herrion would not be interested in leaving for Penn State.

In discussing the head coaching vacancy at PSU Katz wrote this about Marshall and Herrion:

Marshall's Tom Herrion has a potential NCAA tournament team and isn't going to leave after one year for a job like Penn State.

Read the whole report here: http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/blog/_/name/katz_andy/id/6584147/not-ideal-time-psu-pick-coach

Marshall Basketball: Johnny Thomas Leaving Herd

The long rumored exit of rising senior Johnny Thomas has become offical. According to the Twitter account of Herald Dispatch colmnist Chuck Landon, Thomas has hired an agent and will persue proffesional opportunitys in Europe.

Thomas joined Marshall's basketball program as a graduate student from North Carolina State last year. During his one season with MU the 6'6 forward averaged 9.1 points and 4.5 rebounds in 24.8 minutes per game.

Chuck Landon's Twitter account: http://twitter.com/#!/chuckonsports

Marshall Basketball: Penn State interested in Tom Herrion?

Yesterday it became official that former Penn State head basketball coach Ed DeChellis was leaving his alma mater for the same job at Navy. DeChellis’s odd choice to leave the Big Ten for Patriot league basketball has left Happy Valley stunned.

With the rumor mill already turning as Penn State looks for its next head coach one name that has been floated around is Marshall’s Tom Herrion.

College basketball reporter Jeff Goodman suggested that Herrion might be a good fit on twitter yesterday:

Penn State needs a dynamic personality & a big-time recruiter. Names come to mind: BU's Pat Chambers, Marshall's Tom Herrion, Tom Moore.
http://twitter.com/#!/GoodmanCBS

Obvious ties between Penn State and Herrion are few and far between but the current Marshall coach was an assistant at fellow Pennsylvania school Pittsburgh for three seasons.

College Football Zealots: 2011 Marshall Season Preview

College Football Zealots recently asked the Marshall Thundering Blog a few questions for their 2011 preview of MU. Follow the link below to check out my thoughts on Marshall’s upcoming football season.

http://www.collegefootballzealots.com/2011-articles/may/2011-pre-season-preview-marshall-thundering-herd.html

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/24/11

From the Charleston Gazette, MU’s Blank, Sikula, earn Academic honors

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x425038370/MUs-Blank-Sikula-earn-academic-honors

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall baseball misses cut for C-USA tournament

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x425038372/Marshall-baseball-misses-cut-for-C-USA-tournament

From the WV Metro News, Burnside To Resign

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45655

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/23/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Recruiting tweaks, BCS Bustin, Bradshaw

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105221243

From the Herald Dispatch, Bradshaw feeling effects of NFL lockout

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157875/BRADSHAWS-PREDICAMENT

From the Herald Dispatch, Seniors leave mark on MU baseball during final game

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157887/Seniors-leave-mark-on-MU-baseball-during-final-game

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: QB drama surrounding Wilson still churning

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x908221304/Chuck-Landon-QB-drama-surrounding-Wilson-still-churning

From the WV Metro News, Brand Makes Fine Showing at NCAA Regional

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45594

C-USA Commissioner: Concept of Paying Student Athletes of Major NCAA Sports Should be Explored

From Twackle.com:

Conference USA commissioner Britton Banowsky said today that the concept of paying student athletes of major NCAA sports should be explored.

"Universities justify spending tens of millions of dollars on coaches' compensation, with a seemingly insatiable appetite for more growth. At the same time, a small fraction of that amount is spent on all scholarships for all student-athletes," Banowsky said. "Unless the student-athletes in the revenue-producing sports get more of the pie, the model will eventually break down. It seems it is only a matter of time."

Read the whole article here: http://www.twackle.com/articles/Power759-Conference-Commissioners-Weigh-In-On-Payment-Of-Athletes---NCAA

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/20/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Junior College All American Signs to Play for MU Woman

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157465/Junior-college-All-American-signs-to-play-for-MU-women

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's Brand eyes leader in round one

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157461/MUs-Brand-eyes-leader-in-round-one

From the Herald Dispatch, Thundering Herd gets 6-0 victory over UCF

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157459/Thundering-Herd-gets-6-0-victory-over-UCF

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd's Gamby all-region selection by national group

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157463/No-Headline

C-USA Leery of Professional Agents Influence

From the Orlando Sentinel:

DESTIN – As Conference USA aims to raise its profile and become more competitive on the national stage, coaches are running into a more complicated process recruiting elite athletes.

The most spirited discussions during the conference's spring meetings that ended Wednesday were about compliance with the NCAA's vast recruiting rules.

Read the whole article here: http://news.google.com/news/more?pz=1&cf=all&ned=us&cf=all&ncl=dvjHQa7P3VeGIzM8Nc5vqkT0I-wdM

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/19/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Moss Appeals to Young Offenders

http://www.dailymail.com/News/201105180933

From the Charleston Daily Mail, C-USA enjoys new sense of stability

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201105180880

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Vee Sanford commits to Dayton

http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/18/vee-sanford-and-why-you-should-no-longer-care/

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd closing season in Fla.

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157205/Herd-closing-season-in-Fla

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Redshirt decision wise one for Brand

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541157201/Redshirt-decision-wise-one-for-Brand

Marshall Football: Chris Dunkley to USF

Per the twitter account of South Florida head football coach Skip Holtz, Florida transfer Chris Dunkley has decided to attended USF. It had been reported that Marshall was also interested in the former Gators services.

Skip Holtz Twitter account: http://twitter.com/#!/CoachHoltzUSF

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/18/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Pennington still a fiery competitor

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541156781/Inside-Pennington-still-a-fiery-competitor

From the Herald Dispatch, Gallery: Do you remember? -- First game at the Joan, Marshall vs. New Hampshire, 1991

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541156537/Gallery-Do-you-remember-First-game-at-the-Joan-Marshall-vs-New-Hampshire-1991

Marshall Basketball: Georgetown transfer Vee Sanford considering Herd

From the Charleston Gazette:

Sanford, who was a 3-star prospect out of Lexington Catholic HS two years ago, has two years of eligibility left. Goodman said Sanford is visiting Dayton this weekend and is considering two other schools, one of which is Marshall.

This could be a handy addition via transfer for Tom Herrion, who will be looking to fill the voids of out-going seniors Damier Pitts and Shaquille Johnson after this season, not to mention Dago Pena on the wing.

Read the whole report here: http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/17/who-is-vee-sanford-and-why-you-should-care/

C-USA Commissioner Pleased with Leagues Direction

From the Orlando Sentinel:

DESTIN – Conference USA Commissioner Britton Banowsky said he is pleased to be steering his league through calm waters.

"We're under blue skies right now," Banowsky said. "I feel like we've really addressed some of our challenges and now can really focus on our long-term future."

A year ago, C-USA was wary of potential conference realignment and hunting for a more lucrative television contract.

Banowsky is meeting with Conference USA athletic directors, football coaches and basketball coaches for the league's spring meetings this week under more optimistic circumstances.

Read the whole article here: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2011-05-16/sports/os-conference-usa-meetings-0517-20110516_1_bcs-buster-britton-banowsky-conference-usa

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/17/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Brand Relishing Tourney Shot

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x425036286/Herds-Christian-Brand-relishing-chance-to-end-college-career-at-tournament

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: MU Hall of Fame update a good plan

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x425036298/MU-Hall-of-Fame-update-a-good-plan

Chris Royal Returns to Arena Football League

From http://www.thesanjosesabercats.com/:

SAN JOSE, CA - The SaberCats today announced the additions of DB Chris Royal and WR Ed Berry. Berry rejoins San Jose after a stint with the team during training camp.

DB CHRIS ROYAL

Royal (5-10, 195) joins the SaberCats after spending the start of the 2011 season with Kansas City, totaling 13 tackles (12 solo) and three passes defensed in three games for the Command. In 2010, Royal played alongside SaberCats defensive linemen Adam Huebner and Gabe Nyenhuis, where he finished second in the league in interceptions (11) to go along with 69 tackles (53 solo).

Prior to his time in the AFL, Royal played for Marshall from 2002-05, where he totaled 106 tackles (74 solo), nine interceptions, 5.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, five passes defensed and two forced fumbles.

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/16/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Rolling with Daunte Culpepper

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541156013/Rolling-with-Daunte-Culpepper

From the Herald Dispatch, Tulane rally holds, edges Marshall, 15-12

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541156011/Tulane-rally-holds-edges-Marshall-15-12

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's Kennedy places 7th in javelin

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1541156021/MUs-Kennedy-places-7th-in-javelin

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Vision clear for MU athletics

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x425035864/Vision-clear-for-MU-athletics

Marshall Football: Recruit Tyler Combs Nominate for U.S. Army All-American Bowl

Per Kentucky.com, Marshall verbal commitment Tyler Combs, an offensive lineman at Lawernce County High School (KY), has been nominated to play in the 2012 U.S. Army All-American Bowl.

The annual East vs. West matchup, televised live by NBC, is scheduled for Jan. 7.

Comb’s is among 400 high school seniors nominated for the game. That list will eventually be whittled down to 90 participants.

Read the report here: http://www.kentucky.com/2011/05/13/1738759/kentucky-football-recruit-towles.html

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/13/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Bailey Signs with Thundering Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531585515/Bailey-signs-with-Thundering-Herd

From the Herald Dispatch, Tulsa knocks Marshall from C-USA tournament

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531585529/Tulsa-knocks-Marshall-from-C-USA-tournament

From the Herald Dispatch, Tulane set to visit for weekend C-USA series

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531585525/Tulane-set-to-visit-for-weekend-C-USA-series

From the Herald Dispatch, Cheatham going to junior college

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531585527/Cheatham-going-to-junior-college

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/12/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Fisher & Humphrey leaving

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883172509/Fischer-Humphrey-leaving

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Bennett out as strength coach for Holliday

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883172507/Bennett-out-as-strength-coach-for-Holliday

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd's Gamby makes first team All-Conference USA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883172503/Herds-Gamby-makes-first-team-All-Conference-USA

From the WV Metro News, A Star Worth Remembering

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45366

From the WV Metro News, Pennington Taking Rehab One Day At A Time

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45368

Tulane Losses Offensive Coordinator to High School Job

From the San Juan Capistrano Patch:

Dan Dodd, the assistant head football coach at Tulane University, has accepted the position of K-12 athletic director and varsity football coach at Capistrano Valley Chrstian Schools, the school announced Tuesday. Dodd, a graduate of San Clemente High, replaces Chris Fore, who said he has resigned to pursue other opportunities.......

Dodd has 31 years of coaching experience, including serving as a high school and junior college head coach before spending 17 years at Division 1 colleges, including New Mexico and TCU, as an assistant head coach. At Tulane, he also served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Read the whole article here: http://sanjuancapistrano.patch.com/articles/cvcs-names-new-football-coach-athletics-director

WV Metro News: Interview with Mike Hamrick

WV Metro News reporter Dave Wilson has an exclusive interview with Marshall athletic director Mike Hamrick about the Herd's upcoming facilities project.

Click here to listen: http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45342

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/11/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Marshall’s Brand Earns NCAA Golf Invitation

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105101439

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Scheduling biggest issue among several, Herd coach says

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201105101154

From the Herald Dispatch, MU's Brand makes NCAA championships

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584993/MUs-Brand-makes-NCAA-championships

From the Herald Dispatch, Gamby wins place on C-USA academic team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584995/Gamby-wins-place-on-C-USA-academic-team

From the Herald Dispatch, Radford uses big inning to top Herd

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584991/Radford-uses-big-inning-to-top-Herd

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/10/11

From the Herald Dispatch, Early Buzz Surrounding Herd Hoop Justifiable

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584657/Chuck-Landon-Early-buzz-surrounding-Herd-hoops-is-justifiable

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd softball begins C-USA tourney play on Thursday

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584653/Herd-softball-begins-C-USA-tourney-play-on-Thursday

From the Herald Dispatch, MU playing doubleheader with Radford

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x531584659/MU-playing-doubleheader-with-Radford

Bernard Morris Leads Pittsburgh Power to Victory

In his first start after being activated from injured reserve former Marshall quarterback Bernard Morris lead the Pittsburgh Power to a 51 – 41 victory over the Spokane Shock Saturday night.

Morris had been out with a pulled muscle in his throwing shoulder since March 19th but came back strong. Against Spokane he threw for 226 yards and 5 touchdowns to only one interception. Morris also had 66 rushing yards and a additional 2 touchdowns on the ground.

For more on Morris’s comeback, read this game story: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/11127/1145070-139-0.stm

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/9/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Travon Van official joins Herd roster today

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/05/07/if-you-were-wondering-about-travon-van/

From the Herald Dispatch, Pirates come back to beat MU, 6-5

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883171495/Pirates-come-back-to-beat-MU-6-5

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd players selected for academic all-district team

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883171503/Herd-players-selected-for-academic-all-district-team

From the Herald Dispatch, MU falls to UAB in bottom of seventh

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883171497/MU-falls-to-UAB-in-bottom-of-seventh

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd enter Russell Wilson sweepstakes

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x883170921/N-C-State-transfer-QB-longshot-for-Marshall

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/6/11

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd ECU fighting for postseason births

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105051955

From the Charleston Gazette, Herd Signs 6-9 JC Player

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105051857

From the Herald Dispatch, Herrion finds junior college gems

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x189014494/Herrion-finds-gems-at-junior-colleges

From the Herald Dispatch, Herd to host Pirates

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x189014492/Herd-to-host-Pirates

Marshall Basketball: Robert Goff Commits to Herd

Robert Goff, a 6’9, 240 pound forward/center from Hutchinson Community College (KS) has committed to Marshall. A four star recruit according to scout.com, Goff averaged 9.1 points and 6.2 rebounds per game at Hutchinson this season. Goff had previously signed a letter of intent with Oklahoma but was released from that commitment after former OU coach Jeff Capel was fired. Besides Marshall, Goff also had scholarship offers from Indiana and Ohio State. If he qualifies academically Goff will have two years of eligibility at Marshall.

For more on Goff follow the links below:

Charleston Daily Mail article on Goff’s recruiting visit, http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201105041350

Charleston Daily Mail article on Goff’s commitment, http://blogs.dailymail.com/marshall/2011/05/05/herd-adds-top-juco-talent-left-in-the-country/

SBNation report on Goff’s commitment to OU, http://www.crimsonandcreammachine.com/2010/11/16/1817414/ou-basketball-signs-preseason-juco-all-american-robert-goff

Scout.com profile, http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=8&c=1&nid=5192206

Rivals.com profile, http://rivals.yahoo.com/purdue/basketball/recruiting/player-Robert-Goff-70078

ESPN.com profile, http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/recruiting/player/_/id/124502/robert-goff

YouTube Video, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWHQJDsGEb8

Marshall Baseball: Former MU Pitcher Dan Straily Performing well in Minors

Former Marshall University pitcher Dan Straily is off to a hot start with the Stockton Ports (High A, California League). In 32 innings pitched (5 starts) Straily has an ERA of 2.53 with 31 strike outs to only 9 walks.

After finishing his career at Marshall Straily was drafted in the 24th round (723 overall) by the Oakland Athletics. Over three minor league season Strailey has a combined ERA of 4.03 with an impressive 9.3 strike outs per 9 innings.

See Straily’s Stockton Ports profile here: http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?pos=P&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=573185

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/5/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall basketball: Herrion craving more recruits

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/MUSports/201105041350

From the Herald Dispatch, NFL lockout means Harvey must wait

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1725730093/NFL-lockout-means-Harvey-must-wait

From the Herald Dispatch, MU softball taking momentum to UAB

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1725730095/MU-softball-taking-momentum-to-UAB

From the Herald Dispatch, Robert Goff Visits Herd of Recruiting Trip

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1725730087/Juco-big-man-visits-Marshall

From the Herald Dispatch, Marshall doubles team in NCAA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1725730097/Marshall-doubles-team-in-NCAA

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Mid-major UCF may feel wrath of NCAA

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x1725730091/Mid-major-UCF-may-feel-wrath-of-NCAA

From WVMetronews.com, Smith Ready To Compete In New England

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45208

C-USA: ESPN lawsuit should be dismissed

From the Orlando Sentinel:

Conference USA's attorney has asked a federal judge to throw out a lawsuit ESPN filed against the league over its new television contract.

"We believe that ESPN is trying to win in court what it lost in the marketplace — the right to broadcast Conference USA football and basketball games," New York-based attorney Orin Snyder, who represents Conference USA, said in a statement to the Orlando Sentinel.

ESPN alleges in the lawsuit it reached a contract extension agreement with Conference USA via e-mail, but the league later decided to pursue a new deal with Fox Sports Media Group. ESPN also alleges Conference USA never gave the network a final offer to consider before beginning negotiations with Fox, a right ESPN contends was part of the previous contract.

Read the whole article here: http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2011-05-02/sports/os-cusa-espn-lawsuit-0503-20110502_1_conference-usa-espn-senior-vice-president-c-usa-commissioner-britton-banowsky

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/4/11

From the Charleston Daily Mail, Marshall on aggressive timetable to complete upgrades

http://www.dailymail.com/Sports/201105031174

From the Herald Dispatch, Chadwick brings in pair of forwards

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x189013818/Chadwick-brings-in-pair-of-forwards

From the WVMetronews.com, Still Up in the Air

http://www.wvmetronews.com/marshall.cfm?func=displayfullstory&storyid=45150

Marshall Football: Herd Offers Scholarships to Robert Conyers, Jeremy Daniels, and Langston Newton

Per the twitter accounts of HerdNation.com and Rivals reporter Chris Nee, Marshall football coach Doc Holliday has extended 2012 scholarship offers to Robert Conyers, Jeremy Daniels, and Langston Newton. For more information on each player please view the profiles below:

HerdNation.com twitter page: http://twitter.com/#!/HerdNation

Chris Nee’s twitter page: http://twitter.com/#!/RivalsCNee

Robert Conyers is a 6’5, 277 pound offensive lineman from Braddock High School (FL). Marshall was the third school to extend Conyers a scholarship, he also has offers from Florida Atlantic and Wake Forest. With impressive size and athletic ability Conyers starts at left tackle for Braddock. For more on Conyers follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile, http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Robert-Conyers-122369

Scout.com profile, http://hsflorida.scout.com/a.z?s=376&p=8&c=1&nid=5474420

ESPN.com profile, http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=135208&_slug_=robert-conyers&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d135208%26_slug_%3drobert-conyers

Miami Herald Spotlight article, http://miamiherald.typepad.com/hssports/2011/03/herald-spotlight-robert-conyers.html

Elitescoutingservices.com evaluation, http://elitescoutingservices.com/2011/04/07/inside-the-huddle-robert-conyers-ot-braddock-high-school/

YouTube.com video, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oqwmg5t1qIo


Jeremy Daniels is a 6’6, 350 pound offensive lineman from Lanier County High School (GA). Daniels participated in the 2011 Georgia Junior Bowl, an all-star game made up of the peach states best rising seniors. Despite only having one scholarship offer Daniels has taken an unofficial visit to Florida and spent time at Georgia’s elite football camp. For more on this huge offensive lineman follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile, http://rivals.yahoo.com/bostoncollege/football/recruiting/player-Jeremy-Daniels-126781?colleges=show

Scout.com profile, http://recruiting.scout.com/a.z?s=73&p=8&c=1&nid=4991074

ESPN.com profile, http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=123791&_slug_=jeremy-daniels&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d123791%26_slug_%3djeremy-daniels

NCSA.com Video, http://www.ncsasports.org/college-recruiting-videos-highlights/jeremy-daniels


Langston Newton is a 6’5, 240 pound defensive end from Carmel High School (IN). At 240 pounds Newton projects as a defensive tackle in Marshall’s defense. Besides Marshall, Newton also has scholarship offers from Arkansas State, Grambling, Indiana, and Western Kentucky. Newton’s brother is current Kentucky quarterback Morgan Newton. For more on Newton follow the links below:

Rivals.com profile, http://rivals.yahoo.com/highschool/football/recruiting/player-Langston-Newton-123751

Scout.com profile, http://hswashington.scout.com/a.z?s=230&p=8&c=1&nid=5435649

ESPN.com profile, http://insider.espn.go.com/college-football/recruiting/player?id=126854&_slug_=langston-newton&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fcollege-football%2frecruiting%2fplayer%3fid%3d126854%26_slug_%3dlangston-newton

YouTube.com video, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ij6tZbcxuE

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/3/11

From the Herald Dispatch, ESPN predicts MU close to Big Dance

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x362869954/Early-predictions-have-Marshall-hoops-barely-missing-Big-Dance

From the Herald Dispatch, Chuck Landon: Taken by a pseudo tweet not so sweet

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x362869948/Chuck-Landon-Taken-by-a-pseudo-tweet-not-so-sweet

From the Herald Dispatch, Stafford named Hitter of the Week

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x362869952/Stafford-named-Hitter-of-the-Week

From the Herald Dispatch, All-C-USA women's tennis team named

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x362869958/All-C-USA-womens-tennis-team-named

NCAA Investigating Potential UCF Recruiting Violations

From WFTV.com:

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. -- The University of Central Florida is under investigation by the NCAA for alleged illegal recruiting practices involving its basketball team.

The New York Times reported online Friday that Kenneth Caldwell, 42, a Chicago man with a criminal record and apparent ties to a prominent sports agency, contacted Kevin Ware, to talk up UCF’s basketball program.

Read the whole report here: http://www.wftv.com/news/27732792/detail.html

Today's Marshall Sports News 5/1/11

From the Charleston Gazette, The Real Deception of Title IX

http://www.wvgazette.com/Sports/Marshall/201105011429

From the Charleston Gazette, One recruiting note

http://blogs.wvgazette.com/dougsmock/2011/04/29/one-recruiting-note/

From the Herald Dispatch, Soccer facility great news for coaches

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x337881165/New-soccer-facility-means-good-times-for-Gray-Long

From the Herald Dispatch, Thundering Herd splits doubleheader in Memphis

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x337880739/Thundering-Herd-splits-doubleheader-in-Memphis

From the Herald Dispatch, Smith goes to Pats

http://www.herald-dispatch.com/sports/x337880741/Smith-goes-to-Pats