Dave: I think we’re all carefully avoiding two topics here: Firstly, that the big Div I programs bear a startling resemblance to the ownership of the NFL, especially as it relates to division of the monies received from television, merchandising/marketing and bowl appearance fees, as well as the corrupting influence of that money (see USC Football and Basketball). Secondly, that the NFL is a plantation labor system and that certain NCAA schools (University of Miami comes to mind) function as a glorified farm system for the NFL.
Whether or not the NCAA sanctions against USC are fair or not is arguable, but what’s inarguable is that USC, under Pete Carroll, was a pro-style program (and one look at the number of USC football players in the pro ranks bears this out), designed and built to deliver playoff wins and all the commensurate “goodies”, including merchandising, ESPN/major affiliate airtime, marquee bowl appearances and lots and lots of money.
