INBOX
FOR AUG. 18, 2014
College sports have become nothing more than big business. Hiring a coach like Bobby Petrino, who can definitely fill the stadium but who does not have the integrity to lead the young men entrusted to him by example, speaks volumes.
Bruce Fritz, Westport, Conn.
How can you exclude Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon from your 2014 Heisman watch? He rushed for 1,609 yards and had 12 touchdowns last season. Surely he deserves some consideration.
Jeff Blanch, Birchwood, Wis.
Florida is the only team scheduled to play both Florida State and Alabama this year—on the road, no less. Here's hoping there really is life after such a dismal season.
Scott Ludwig, Senoia, Ga.
Sure, there is some truth in Andrew Lawrence's assessment that Kevin Ward Jr.'s life would have been spared had he stayed in his car. However, this seems to place the blame solely on the 20-year-old victim. As a NASCAR veteran, Stewart also bears some responsibility.
Gary M. Crist
Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.
COVER
Choosing Ohio State for your final four is proof that SI, like the rest of the country, underestimates Michigan State and its stalwart defense. Hopefully, after dashing the Buckeyes' Rose Bowl dreams once again, the Spartans will finally get the respect they're due.
Jeremy Simpson
Portage, Mich.
PAGE 24
SCORECARD
Lance Armstrong's response to Dan Patrick's question about whether he should still be referred to as the seven-time winner of the Tour de France—"It depends"—shows that Armstrong still does not comprehend the totality of his deception.
Ken Ries, Greenville, S.C.
PAGE 116
POINT AFTER
I agree with Michael Rosenberg that Jameis Winston deserves to be treated fairly and not be overanalyzed for his past transgressions. However, that doesn't mean Winston should get a free pass. After all, misdemeanor theft is still a crime, regardless of what was stolen.
David Wise
Hyde Park, N.Y.
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MICHELLE HUTCHINS/LOUISVILLE ATHLETICS (PETRINO)
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JAMIE SABAU/GETTY IMAGES (COVER)
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JOHN PARRA/WIREIMAGE (ARMSTRONG)
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CARLOS M. SAAVEDRA FOR SPORTS ILLUSTRATED (ROSENBERG)
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EMPIRE SUPER SPRINTS, INC./AP (WARD)
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JAMIE SABAU/GETTY IMAGES (GORDON)
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