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Browns - John Clayton, one of ESPN's long time NFL "insiders", stated categorically on ESPN Radio that Bill Cowher will NOT go to Cleveland because he doesn't want to have to go against the Steeler franchise where he succeeded for so many years and built up so much history. Not that he would be "afraid" of the Steelers as a Browns head coach (has he seen the Browns record against Pittsburgh?), just that he doesn't want to put himself in that position.

Of course, a few "commentators" disagree with that view (did Clayton get his info directly from Cowher?) because they say when it comes down to it, Cowher may not be able to refuse the reported $8-$9 million per year and complete control over the team that owner Randy Lerner is willing to offer him. Of course, there's at least 2 or 3 other head coaching positions that are going to be open that also would be attractive if Cowher wants to return to coaching. As a Browns fan myself, I'd love to have Cowher return to his coaching roots. We shall see.

Buckeye basketball - As nice as the start to the season has been so far for the undefeated Buckeyes, it's about to get a lot tougher for this young team. With Bob Huggins' West Virginia squad coming to town Saturday, and then the Big 10 season starting right after that, B.J. Mullens is going to have to go through another fast learning process. He's made great strides already this season, but it's going to be tough for him when the conference games start. The physicality and competition will be at a level he's never experienced before.

The loss of David Lighty and the experience and court savvy he brought every game is also going to show up early in the Big 10 schedule. Once again Thad Matta is faced with a monumental coaching challenge, but at least this team has enough raw talent and enough quality wins already that making the NCAA Tournament shouldn't be a question this year.

Buckeye football - Similar to last year, the lack of buzz and excitement going into the Buckeyes BCS bowl game this year is amazing. Obviously the current economic conditions have played a part in dampening the spirit for travelling to the Fiesta Bowl once again, but except for the truly hard core fan, there's simply no outward evidence of excitement or pride for this team.

I think it's a combination of Buckeye fans simply being spoiled and somewhat blase about the consistent overall success that Tressel has brought, but many others simply feel the team doesn't have a chance against Texas. After the losses to Florida, LSU and USC it's hard to argue that point, and only an upset against the Colt McCoy led Longhorns will be able to restore a high level of excitement heading into next season as well as rescue the Buckeyes reputation nationally.

Tags: bill cowher, cleveland browns, jim tressel, ohio state basketball, ohio state football, thad matta