[Reginald Rutledge]

started before April because of several reasons. Number 1, ERob, the commissioner is pretty organized and had already gotten his people in order. They are all paid up for the season.

Also, they have 10 plus years of Shootout Rules experience and was the driving force behind the option rule. They authored that rule along with Michael Robertson (SWC) so they were well-prepared to get their conference rolling.

Plus, they will be doing something with ESPN and their time is very important to make sure that shoot works well for them. It would have conflicted with the start of their regular season so they wanted to start early.

Right now, all I know is Walter Payton leads the NCAA in rushing and could be in contention for a Heisman Trophy. I know that East Carolina is 1-0-0 and leading the PAC10 behind Coach Rick Garrison who seems wired and pumped up!

Some conferences will start earlier that others. But the key is the conferences that are still needing "Jamborees" to get accustom to the rules, we are here to help. I know you guys in the BAM have some knowledge but now we've got to make sure Geno (Big 12), G Hardmon (Big 10), K Boddie (ACC), and Joel P (SEC) and Biglock (Independent) get any necessary help they need.

The actual ruleset will be out Friday but most of what you played with in the BAM will still apply here. The only major difference is within the option play and Michael Robertson is writing the "language" as we speak.

Reg