John U. Bacon Stories

Gordie Howe: Understanding Mr. Hockey's Legacy In U.S.

His impact on the game helped the NHL expand, and his personal touch with fans grew the sport. Reach includes this year's Stanley Cup champs
Conference Consolidation Chips Away At What Makes College Sports Unique

At some point, the constant shuffling of recent years will settle down but what at cost? No longer models of stability
Some Colleges Will Be Better Without Football Than With It

For certain universities such as Eastern Michigan, the increased spending is futile and counterproductive. Just punt
NCAA Ban Of Football Satellite Camps Misses The Point, Hurts Players

If recruiting is a sin, the organization should be prepared to write a few more rules -- though perhaps we shouldn't tempt it. Harbaugh is proponent
The Special Connection Between Tom Izzo And His No. 1 Fan

Spartans coach had a special connection with a fan he met years before being hired at Michigan State. How chance meeting grew into friendship
Syracuse-UNC In Final Four Exposes NCAA's Lack Of Principle

Thanks to academic fraud at both schools, this heavyweight match-up has become the Corruption Classic or the Scholastic Scandal Semifinal. Why it is actually quite fitting >>
What's App? Will Spartans' MTS Tourney Stunner Spark Truce With Michigan?

Michigan State's first-round exit brings to mind its rival biggest upset loss in football. Spread the pain
Why Ivy League Ban On Tackling At Practice Is Really Smart

If football can't convince parents the game is safe, parents will respond by killing football softly, simply by keeping their kids out of it. Pressure on other conferences
How A Dishwasher Called 'The Beav' Connected Tom Brady And Jim Harbaugh

When Michigan was looking for heavy-hitting alums to persuade the coach to return to Ann Arbor, it needed someone with real juice to make the arrangements. Trusted and respected
Rams' Move Proves Again Owners Have Rigged It So Only They Can Win

There is only one American city with four major league teams that has never lost a sports franchise. Fans foot the bill