Pac-12 links: DirecTV having ‘fruitful’ discussions with Pac-12 Networks

» DirecTV reportedly began testing a signal for Pac-12 Networks earlier this week, and it appears that AT&T’s acquisition of the satellite provider is finally ending this long stalemate.

» Stanford and Cal stand on opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to opening up practices.

» Utah coach Kyle Whittingham hasn’t missed a workout day since July 1, 2008.

» At least one doctor disagrees with how USC is handling Steve Sarkisian’s behavior.

» Vernon Adams only needed two weeks at Oregon to win the Ducks’ starting quarterback job. Continue reading “Pac-12 links: DirecTV having ‘fruitful’ discussions with Pac-12 Networks” »

Pac-12 links: Mike Leach occasionally enjoys a lagoon swim

» Rich Rodriguez tells a story about Mike Leach swimming in a lagoon:

» More of the best quotes from Pac-12 Media Days.

» Utah was picked to finish fifth in the Pac-12 South, but that placement doesn’t capture the Utes’ changing reputation.

» Cal athletics is raising its admission standards after years of poor graduation rates in football and men’s basketball. Continue reading “Pac-12 links: Mike Leach occasionally enjoys a lagoon swim” »

Pac-12 links: FCC approval of AT&T—DirecTV merger could help Pac-12 Networks

» The FCC announced on Friday that it has approved AT&T’s takeover of DirecTV, a move that could clear the way for the Pac-12 Networks to appear on the satellite provider. The breakdown in negotiations between DirecTV and the Pac-12 has been arguably the biggest blemish on the resume of commissioner Larry Scott.

Bay Area News Group columnist Jon Wilner examined the issue earlier this week.

» Each Division I school will receive $18.9 million from the NCAA to fund cost-of-attendance-based scholarships and other projects.

» USC’s Adoree’ Jackson wants to win the Heisman and an Olympic gold medal.

» Oregonian columnist John Canzano no longer believes in Dana Altman — and according to emails he obtained, the Oregon administration may not either. Continue reading “Pac-12 links: FCC approval of AT&T—DirecTV merger could help Pac-12 Networks” »

Pac-12 links: Why Ben Howland went to Mississippi State

» Ben Howland still has photos of his Santa Barbara house on his phone, but he’s temporarily given up the comforts of Southern California for Starkville — a place that has given him another chance to coach basketball.

» Charges against Dominique Hatfield have been dropped after an alleged armed robbery, opening the door to a possible return for the Utah cornerback.

» An Oregon State student saved a woman from a burning car. Continue reading “Pac-12 links: Why Ben Howland went to Mississippi State” »

Pac-12 links: Marcus Mariota is the last unsigned NFL first-round pick

» Former Oregon quarterback and No. 2 overall NFL draft pick Marcus Mariota has not yet signed his contract with the Tennessee Titans, making him the last first-rounder to hold out. A report suggested that Mariota was upset that the contract barred him from surfing — but, disappointingly, others have debunked that reason.

» Utah cornerback Dominique Hatfield has been charged with aggravated robbery, a first-degree felony. A former receiver, he was expected to start as a junior.

» Colorado defensive tackle Josh Tupou has been ruled out for the Buffaloes this season after being arrested in spring, but school officials aren’t commenting further. Continue reading “Pac-12 links: Marcus Mariota is the last unsigned NFL first-round pick” »