As I drove home from work on Monday, I heard Paul Finebaum, Birmingham sports radio talkshow host, read the AP story that USM was signing a convicted felon.  Paul usually doesn't have much positive to say about USM and I often want to call in to defend my alma mater, as he usually twists facts or tells blatant lies.  This, however, was not the case.  I learned it was true and my heart sank.  I was mad, disgusted, disappointed, etc.  Five years ago, I don't think this would have happened.  Now, I believe in second chances.  We all need them, but sometimes the risks outweigh the benefits.  The PR hits will be unreal once the national media gets hold of this.  It will be written about by sports writers.  It will be talked about by sports announcers.  Just wait.  I bet it will be mentioned by ESPN game analysts during at least one of our nationally televised games.  This will become the perception of USM athletics-win at all costs mentality.  Is this the case?  I used to be able to say no.

Bower has had a history of firmly dealing with disciplinary problems.  He has kicked several gifted athletes off the team for "rules violations."  I believed that Bower had made the right decision each time.  Something is different now.  Five years ago, Bower would have said no and that would have been that.  However, something has changed I'm afraid.  It started when Perine was allowed to sign and stay with the team after his brush with the law (statutory rape I believe).  I thought for sure he would be gone, but they stood by their commitment and he remains on the team.  Now, we sign a convicted felon that even Kansas State passes on (no they don't have a stellar reputation).  What has happened?  What has changed?  Any suggestions?

I still love my alma mater.  I will support USM to the best of my means and abilities, but this has torn me up.  The downward spiral of Southern Miss continues and it has spread to an area of the university that I thought was a bright spot.