Steve and I recap Saturday’s big games, including Mississippi State’s first loss, Melvin Gordon’s huge day (and pro potential), and the effectiveness of icing the kicker. Smokey, Tennessee’s mascot, is also discussed.

Tomorrow, be on the lookout for a college basketball podcast in which my guests and I discuss last night’s Champions Classic and make our predictions for the season. It should be a fun and informative listen. Speaking of college hoops, I wrote a story yesterday for CBS Local on Kentucky’s chances of an undefeated season and whether they could beat an NBA team. My sources include coaches who have worked at both the college and pro levels.

Before the season started, I wrote about what happens to a mid-major program after a superstar leaves, with Creighton being this season’s example. The story appeared in the monthly print publication Basketball Times. I’d also like to mention that a story I wrote for Sports on Earth last season, about Breanna Stewart, won second place in the USBWA’s annual writing contest! The website that lists the awards has not updated yet, so I’ve included a photo as proof (click to embiggen).

I got a lot of positive feedback from my subscribers about that story, so it was great to see it get recognized with an award. I always appreciate hearing from readers and welcome feedback on my stories as well as my podcasts. Thank you!