What to really watch for

At this time of the year, when college football is coming to an exciting finish and college basketball is just heating up, where does your attention turn to? Power conference football championship games before an even better bowl season? Non-conference basketball tournaments for serious bragging rights?

No? 

Did someone say volleyball? Soccer? Field hockey? 

Sure, those contests broadcasted during primetime on big-time channels are exciting. But if you're looking for the best athletic spirit, look no further than the non-revenue sports. The programs that have student-athletes that you know are really playing for love of the game. There's no big draft for the softball season or after the cross country national championships.

Sure, the information may be a bit harder to come by and you can't watch it as easily, but it's worth the extra effort.

What have you done for me lately?

In the world of sports, especially in regard to coaches, it's all about now. It's not about what someone once did or what they could be capable of in the future.

It's no different and Notre Dame for the football program and it shouldn't be. It's an elite program with a rich history and a strong alumni base that will settle for nothing less than wins, baby, wins.

So why the long leash for Charlie Weis? 

The head coach, tabbed as one of the most brilliant offensive minds in the football world — college or pro — has overstayed his welcome at the Golden Dome and is being paid a hefty dime to do so. He was offered a 10-year contract for more than $30 million before he even finished his first season with the Irish and now they're paying for it — literally.

The Irish are suffering another dismal losing season after a pathetic home loss to Syracuse and a thrashing at the hands of rival USC. With losses to the Trojans and rival Michigan State, it's pretty much a rivalry win against an even more pathetic University of Michigan team that's keeping Weis afloat.

The Irish were quick to cut Tyrone Willingham loose after a few disappointing seasons (by Irish standards). Weis should receive the same treatment, Super Bowl rings and phenomenal recruiting classes aside.

Brian Kelly, anyone?