8A
SPORTS
THE UNIVERSITY DAILY KANSAN
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6. 2007
BIG 12 FASTBREAK
Biq 12 writer Mark Dent's take on the men's conference race.
RAISE YOUR GLASSES TO...
Texas A&M (19-3, 7-1)
It's doubtful anyone in Lawrence is going to be toasting to this team, but the Aggies earned their biggest victory in program history Saturday night against the lawhaws. Coach Billispie will rank among the best coaches in the game because of what he's done at UTFE and now A&M. The Aggies aren't quite in the same class as national title contenders such as Florida, North Carolina, Wisconsin or UCLA, but they are only a notch beneath them. With their impenetrable defense, it would not be surprising to see them make a Final Four run.
SEND A
CONGRATULATIONS
FACEBOOK MESSAGE
TO...
Acie Law IV, Texas A&M
The Big 12 Fastbreak swears it isn't biased to the Aggies. It just has to be that way.
his to give even where credit's due, and Law deserves plenty of it. He carried his team on his back during the last six minutes of Saturday's game and made an NBA three-
Law
pointer to win the game. Law ended up with 23 points and seven assists Plus, Law showed class by apologizing after the game for taunting the fans during the celebration.
START A CONVERSATION
WITH THE SET TOPICS...
Halfway Forecast
The skies couldn't be any sun-
ner in College Station, Texas Texas A&M is in the driver's seat for the Big 12 title Kansas, Oklahoma State and Texas will make the NCAA Tournament barring something very strange, and Kansas State would probably be in if the tournament started today, after its win against Texas Texas Tech and Oklahoma have a lot of work to do to go dancing but still have a chance.
More than a Sunflower
Sunflower Showdown number one has bigger implications than normal this year. Kansas (19-4, 6-2) and Kansas State (17-6, 6-2) will be playing for second place in the Big 12. The Jayhawks definitely have more talent and should be out for revenge after last year's loss in Lawrence, but the Wildcats, winners of six in a row, have all the momentum.
Rivalry Week
It's a great week to see some of the best rivalries in the country, Kansas and Missouri play on Saturday, and Oklahoma and Oklahoma State play on Wednesday. Both match-ups were close earlier this season and should be interesting again this time.
The Dora Watch
The Darryl Dora train keeps chugging right along. For those who didn't know, the Big 12 Fastbreak bet that the Texas Tech forward wouldn't score in double digits the rest of the season after his 18 point game against Kansas. Last week, Dora made zero field goals in 14 minutes against Texas before blowing up for four points against Oklahoma. His team has now lost two in a row.
KEEP A CLOSE WATCH ON THE RACE FOR IRRELEVANCE
Max Baer. To put it simply, Colorato beating Oklahoma State was an absolute miracle. The biggest upset of all time. The Buffalooes wu 89-77 for their second conference victory of the season and hurt their chances to be the worst team. Colorado had
Colorado's victory against Oklahoma State was big. Bigger than Seabiscuit over War Admiral. Bigger than James Braddock over
the eye of a realy old and slow tiger as they got blown out beautifully by Baylor earlier in the week. That loser instinct was gone. Saturday
sarately, and now the Buffalooes have to settle for being a run of the mill mediocre team. As for the Cowboys, way to make the entire conference appear awful. The Big 12 can no longer be considered one of the nation's best after this debacle.
YOU PROBABLY SAID'OH MY GOSH' ABOUT...
Digger Phelps, ESPN College Gameday
We all expected the matching tie and highlighter Saturday morning during Gameday, but the stunt Phelps pulled rivaled Evel Knievel's jump over Snake River Canyon. For those who were lucky to miss it, here's the series of unfortunate events. ESPN showed a video clip of Phelps appearing as the Wizard of Oz. Phelps, his face tinted in a green hue, cackled as he warned Kansas to beware of the "B" schools — Bucknell, Bradley and this year, Butler. After the clip aired, silence engulfed the student section, and Kansas coach Bill Self looked like he just had a tooth pulled. For awkward moments, it really doesn't get much better than this.
If you have a topic that you want to be covered in next week's Fastbreak, e-mail Mark Dent at mdent@kansan.com.
Coming championship holds no clear favorite
BY JENNA FRYER ASSOCIATED PRESS
This year's pick isn't nearly as obvious, with 50 drivers revving their motors in pursuit of dethroning NASCAR's newest champion, Jeff Gordon wants a fifth Nextel Cup title. Tony Stewart is fired up after missing last year's Chase, and Matt Kenseth's goal is to win a second title, this time under a new points system.
Edited by Joe Caponio
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Linnie Johnson was the clear favorite to win last season's Nextel Cup championship, an easy pick after coming so very close so many times before.
But no matter how you break it down, the championship is Johnson's to lose.
"It's hard to win one, much less back to back, and to do anything twice in a row is tough," said Stewart.
who won titles in 2002 and 2005.
"I can go to Vegas and put a whole bunch of money on a number, and to have it hit once is something, but to come back again and have it hit again."
Only seven drivers have won consecutive Cup titles — none since Gordon in 1997 and 1998.
"I am a race car driver, and I want to win championships," he said. "I always wanted to win one, and now I've got it. That whole experience makes you hungry and want to come back and do it again.
Even though the odds are clearly against him, Johnson plans to make a full-speed run at title No. 2.
"I feel with the team and everything that we have (at Hendrick Motorsports), we could be a contender for a few more of these."
Johnson has every reason to believe he can do it again, because
his 2006 title was no fluke. Since entering the Nextel Cup Series five years ago, Johnson consistently has been among NASCAR's top drivers.
The No. 48 team never has been lower than fifth in the standings and was twice runner-up in the championship. That earned Johnson the dubious distinction of being the Peyton Manning of NASCAR — the guy who dominated the regular season, only to come up short when everything was on the line.
When Johnson and crew chief Chad Knaus finally cleared that final hurdle last November, overcoming a disastrous start to the
"The pressure now is not to prove he can be a champion. The pressure is on himself to come back and be in the hunt again."
RICK HENDRICK
NASCAR car owner
"A lot was said that they might not be able to win it, and Jimmie couldn't get it if he didn't get it last year," car owner Rick Hendrick said.
Knaus also learned to delegate but had trouble easing up initially. When he was caught cheating during Daytona 500 preparations, a four-week suspension forced Knaus to slow down. With the crew chief watching from home, Johnson ralled to win at Daytona and again in Las Vegas two weeks later.
Chase, Johnson was freed of that label.
"Well, he did. I think a lot of the pressure is off. The pressure now is not to prove he can be a champion. The pressure is on himself to come back and be in the hunt again."
It again starts with Knaus, who learned valuable lessons last season. First, he realized he had to back off just a bit to sustain the energy and drive Johnson needed over the long 36-race season.
When Knaus returned to the track, he was able to maintain an even pace the rest of the year.
Now, his challenge will be allow.
"You have to give the guys an opportunity to go out there and soak it in and feel a sense of accomplishment," Knaus said. "Because if they are working continuously and they don't get any type of reward for what they have done, they are going to feel like 'Why am I applying myself and working myself to death for nothing?'
ing his guys to celebrate last seasons success without losing the intensity that made them champions.
"The drivers take off and go to France and Italy (during the off-season), but the guys are in here working like crazy. It's a balance that you've got to find, and I think we did a good job. We just have to wait and see."
The mind-set of Knaus and his crew will be just one part of Johnson's success, which also will depend on how he handles his new role as ambassador to the sport.
The demands on Johnson's time have increased, and the spotlight magnifies everything. He learned that the hard way last December when he fell off a golf cart and broke his wrist while goofing around. Reluctant to reveal exactly how he was injured, Johnson had to backtrack when the truth came out.
"It can get overwhelming with the expectations," said Gordon. "Every show, every print and TV, every media, every fan wants more of you. That's a good thing, but at the same time, it can be hard to manage."
"I think we have to go out there and prove ourselves every week," Knaus said. "Anytime somebody rolls into a season or an event thinking that they are the favorite, you are going to get your butt handed to you. So we won't take the mentality that we are the favorites."
The only certainty is Johnson plans to give his pursuit of a repeat title his full attention. Anything else and Knaus knows they'll come up short.
I even try to give opinions about other sports at times. But I love people. I love being around these kids. They make me feel so young just being around them. I've always tried to be enthusiastic and I think that's been my key, and it's really helped me with my popularity on campus. The kids are just phenom- enal to me.
Vitalie: Oh it gives me goose bumps, it really does. I'll never forget getting a special award and a standing ovation here last year. Lew Perkins gave me a layawk. It was a great feeling. I've got it hung up in its office. It's very special to me.
ROBINETT (CONTINUED FROM 12A)
Rohinett: Yeah, everywhere you go they love you. I mean, you walked in here and they were chanting your name. How does that make you feel?
Robinett: I wanted to ask you a question about this year in college basketball. With the new age-limit rule for the NBA, players like Greg Oden or Kevin Durant, who normally would bypass college, are coming for one year just
Vitale: I'd rather see a rule that I've tried to promote, the rule they use in baseball. Once you enter college you have to stay for three years. Except what I would like to see is for the exceptional player like the Odens, Durants, LeBron James, if they want to go right out of high school, let them. I think we should be able to designate four to five high school players who are going to be automatic lottery selections, and if they want to go, they go, while everyone else comes to college and has to stay for three years. I think it would help tremendously. It's the Vitale plan!
Robinett: So, you know I wrote that article last week about how you drop so many names on the air during games.
Vitale: Am I guilty of that attimes? Probably so, but first of all that game was not a good game. It was ugly in the first half, so what you try to do is keep people there.
to leave the next. Do you think this is a good or bad thing for college basketball?
I mean, there are reasons you do some of the things you do. I've been doing this for 28 years and if I weren't doing it in a positive way, would I get the reaction I do from people? Plus, the coaches, players, they come to me all the time and say "Dickie V, we love your spirit, your enthusiasm" I mean, am I going to be perfect? Nobody's perfect. I make mistakes. I get upset at myself at times and ask myself, "Why did you say that?" or "Why did you do that?" I'm my biggest critic.
Robinnett: Let's see, what else was I going to ask you? Ah yes, when did you first notice you were going bald?
KANSANCLASSIFIEDS
Vitale: You bet Travis
Robinett: I'm sure it hasn't. Thanks a lot Dick.
Robinett is an Austin, Texas senior in journalism.
Vitale: I lost my hair at a very early age. Bald is sexy though! It's never fazed me.
PHONE785.864.4358
$5000 PAID, EGG DONORS
+ Expenses, N. Smoking, Ages 19-29
SATY=110-ACOY=24 GPA=3.0
satisfy to info@eggdonsercenter.com
绵
Computer Upgrades and Repairs
Hardware, Software, Hardware,
Software CHA 90-8922
TRAFFIC-DUI'S MIP'S
PERSONAL INJURY
Shielding of children
gross motor impairment
The law officer
DONALD G. STROLE
Donald G. Strole
16 East 8th
Baltimore County
642-5116
Local ORANGE AND WHITE CAT, Named
Lost Garland 'and missing one eye. For reward.
if found call Conor at (785) 979-6036 or
249-1844
(010) 979-6036
**1 Spring Break Website!** Low prices guaranteed • Group discounts for 6+ Book 20 people, get 3 free trips!
**DiscountsDiscounts or**
or 800-833-8230
LOST & FOUND
1 SPRING Break Website Low Prices
Guaranteed  Group discounts for 6+
Book 20 people get 3 free trips
accountsid.com or
800.838.8202
3 full size redefenders for sale! Perfect for kegerators! $40 pick up, extra $20 delivery. jwah@ku.edu for pics or to order. hawchalk.com/1031
**Spring Break Bahamas** - 5 Days/4 Nights from $199 per person + Includes Cruise Transport & Resort in the Bahamas Other Packages also Available - Book Toll-Free: 1-888-85-BEACH (1-888-85224) www.Bahama.com (1-888-85224)
HAWKCHALK.COM CLASSIFIEDS@KANSAN.COM
STUFF
Apex brand color TV ($20) & a Microwave
(dollar $10) for contact. Contact 877-726-921
www.apexbrands.com
80GBHD 512M BEM Bluetooth
DV Burner Askking about $900 Call
2144159765 or Email nrenny@ku.edu
hawkchau.com/1022
Athion510MHZ-512M Ram-400 hard drive, DVO/DVC RW Combo 19 LCD monitor. New Dell keyboard. New Dell mouse. New USB mouse. Use $280. BHI 812-325F
3000+ sports cards, ROOKIES & STARS
$250 BOO! #620-245-1654 ay123@ku.edu
hwackcal.com/1062
Never before used stainless steel coffee maker still in the box. Retail $65 only asking $40! Contact Johnnath Wilson at 913-731-6843 for more details.
Physics 212 textbooks for sale (volume 3)
and 4. Only 85%! Margaret J. 560; 835
937; 896
tre tranger 1 ton capacity, lifting
range 5-14" - almost new, ask for $10
contact me (785)812-3235
bwckwhkjn/1005
Futon for sale, $145. Good condition
dark grey woven texture. Black cover in
included Ammo of futon are wood (very light
grey) fabric (913) 602-2139 hawkcah.com/987
SOC 160 headings "Crossroads" for only
$15. Margaret @ (314) 560-8359
hawkcalk.com/989
t-99 for $55, there are minor scratches, on the top back, the last person I bought from scratched his name in works great for me. Jismagk uku jismagk uku hawchalk.com.998
Spanish 111 textbook for sale. Brand,
new, never used. Will sell for $52 (50%
off used price) Email weilnhf@hotmail.com
hawkchalk.com/1053
Twin bed for sale. Good condition
$75 BOGO. Available for pick up ASAP!
Call 785-312-0075 with questions
hawkchat.com/1044
XBOX 360 premium, 4 controllers
film 60, madden 7, fight night, perfect dark, call of duty, prog gotham, dead madden 7, nba 71, nba 61-683-684-1058 halckalk com 1056
USB notebookhd enclosure for $15
Used 1 time. Original box, case, CD, etc.
included. jesismika.edu.
hawkcalkit.com/1066
TICKETS
3 Texas lx needed by alum & sons. 3/3.
Reserve only. Appreciate the help
provided.
Looking for tickets to The Shin S. Would love 3, but need AT LEAST 2. We went to go buy tickets, but they were sold out for the price of one. www.hwchuk.com/785-218-2392 hwchuk.com/1065
Need 1 student ticket to the K-State game.
Will pay some. Contact blush@ku.edu
awkwalk.com/1063
1 need 1 ticket for AAM and KSU game.
My friend does not have a ticket. Willing to pay some. E at bhavte@ku.edu hawkchak.com/1032
$500 Police impounded Honda, Chrysler,
toyota, etc from 5001 for listings
inventory.
Eagle Talon on 18's $3200. Never trans.
& clutch, 18' in tires and runs. Nice car for
the money. All hwy miles. 785-633-6922
hawkcalm.com/995
2000 Ford Mustang Coupe, V8. Five-
Speed, 83k, Black. Good Condition.
65,70 flexible. Call 785-364-6969 or
info.forklift.com:1035
Attention College Students!
We pay up to $75 per survey.
www.GetPaidToThink.com
KU's free local marketplace free [ads] for all hawkchalk
Psychological
Psychological Clinic
340 Fraser 864-4121
www.psych.ku.edu/psychinic/
Counseling
Services for
Lawrence & KU
Paid for by KU
Serving KU
Runs every Tuesday this semester in the Kansan Classifieds
864-4358 classifieds@kansan.com
hawkchalk
---