On the Outside Looking at the Insider

I have had it with ESNP.com at its precious Insider. About the only thing I can read on the web site are news reports and generic analyses. If I want the inside scoop from some of the best writers in sports (well, I say that but I don't know for sure since I can barely read their work), I have to plunk down $40 for 13 months of access.

But wait, there's more. You get a subscription to ESPN the Magazine for your money. Ick. I've purchased a couple of issues and Sports Illustrated it is NOT.

And I'm not the only one frustrated by this. If I'm going to plunk down a premium for web content, it better unavailable anywhere else or at least bring me a return on investment--like what you can get at Consumer Reports.

I reached the peak of my frustrations tonight when I wanted to read some predictions and analyses of the upcoming NFL games for my fantasy football league. BUZZ. Sorry. Pay up.

That's fine, guys. SI.com and my local paper offers insights for free.

Oh, okay. The Dallas paper does require a free registration. Oh the agony. Oh the inconvenience.

I Have Tasted the Kool-Aid...

And it tastes red.

Indiana Hoosier red. Actually, it's crimson.

After decades of believing the IU football team to be nothing more than an intramural team (except for the anomoly that was the Malory years), the I am starting to believe.

In Coach Hep we trust.

Indiana head football coach Terry Hoeppner is in his first year at the helm of the Hoosiers and he has brought with him an enthusiasm and spirit that has not been seen on the campus for as long as I can remember.

And now the Hoosiers are 3-0 after demolishing the University of KY Jelly.

I had given up hope on this football team and always waited for the start of basketball season. But Coach Hep is passing out the crimson kool-aid and I'm lapping it up.

Maybe he should change his name to coach Hopener.