The Wiz of Odds

Bowl Expense Reports: The Story Behind the Story

Related content: Bowl games: Silly extravagance, or worthwhile tradition? Plus, a look at team expense reports.

It was a teeth-extracting exercise tracking down expense reports for the 70 teams competing in bowl games last season.

Tennessee was just another bump in the road.

"Dear Mr. Christensen:

"The Tennessee Public Records Act does require that the requesting party is a citizen of Tennessee."

OK, I live in Los Angeles, so could probably run down to Alvarado and 8th and get a fake Tennessee driver's license. About anything is available on the streets in that neighborhood, and I was ready for a fight — but a fair and legal one.

This battle involved filing Freedom of Information requests with 70 universities. With the exception of 11 private schools, the remaining 59 had an obligation to comply with the law.

Tennessee's stonewalling gave me an indication that not all schools would oblige.

Ticket Sales Must Be Sluggish at USC

Not so long ago, fans flocked to the L.A. Memorial Coliseum to see Reggie Bush or Matt Leinart lead USC to victory. There was no need for a marketing program.

Times have changed. USC recently released two videos with the hope of boosting sales of season tickets.

The top video features quarterback Matt Barkley, athletic director Pat Haden and associate athletic director J.K. McKay. The bottom video, titled "The Briefcase," features coach Lane Kiffin.

Currently at the Top of the Billboard Chart

Update: Turns out the billboard is the work of a Michigan State alum.

It has been 2,717 days since Michigan beat Ohio State, but troubles surrounding Buckeye coach Jim Tressel have helped rejuvenate the Wolverine fanbase. Here's an image of a billboard that is said to be near the Wayne Road exit on Interstate 94 west between Detroit and Ann Arbor.

Thanks to the Midwest Correspondent.