Oregon State athletic director Scott Barnes discusses the recent firing of head coach Trent Bray, the team's challenges, the Blueprint Sports NIL deal, and plans for improving fan experience and honoring the university's athletic heritage amid fan frustrations.
Tennessee defensive back Boo Carter's status is uncertain after missing team activities and being confronted by team leaders, with his future at the program unclear as coach Josh Heupel is expected to address the situation soon. Carter, a strong freshman contributor, had announced his return for 2025 despite transfer rumors and NIL deals. The situation unfolds amid Tennessee's adjustments following quarterback Nico Iamaleava's departure, emphasizing the importance of a 'next man up' mentality in college football.
Five-star offensive tackle Felix Ojo signed a historic $5.1 million, three-year NIL deal after committing to Texas Tech, setting a new benchmark in college football and highlighting the increasing financial opportunities for top recruits.
Ohio State's top defensive end target, Luke Wafle, committed to USC after the Trojans offered a lucrative NIL deal worth up to $2.6 million over two years, despite Ohio State's efforts to retain him with a higher NIL offer.
South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers was reportedly offered $8 million to transfer, highlighting the ongoing issue of financial inducements in college sports, but he has chosen to stay at USC despite the offers. Sellers, a top dual-threat QB and Heisman contender, values his education and playing career over money, with his NIL valuation at $3.7 million.
NiJaree Canady, a star pitcher for Texas Tech softball, has signed another seven-figure NIL contract, confirming her commitment to stay at Texas Tech and focus on their upcoming national championship game. Her decision to remain at Tech, after leading the team to the brink of a national title and making history, was influenced by the program's support and her desire to continue her successful career there.
BYU's first-year basketball coach Kevin Young discussed the signing of AJ Dybantsa, the top-rated high school basketball recruit in the country, marking a significant moment in BYU sports history. Young highlighted the extensive recruitment process and the role of BYU's NIL collective in securing Dybantsa, who chose BYU over North Carolina, Kansas, and Alabama. Young emphasized Dybantsa's maturity and potential, comparing his playing style to NBA stars and expressing confidence in his future NBA prospects.
Dave Portnoy celebrated Michigan's successful recruitment of top quarterback Bryce Underwood, who flipped his commitment from LSU after reportedly being offered a $10.5 million NIL deal. Portnoy hinted at his involvement in securing Underwood's commitment, which could significantly impact Michigan's future in college football. The Wolverines, currently experiencing a down season, are expected to return to national title contention with Underwood, a Michigan native, leading the team.
Florida coach Billy Napier expressed confidence in his actions and legal team regarding the lawsuit filed by Jaden Rashada, who accused Napier and others of fraud related to a failed $13.85 million NIL deal. Napier, who learned of the lawsuit through media reports, emphasized that he cannot comment due to ongoing litigation but is supported by the university. The lawsuit alleges fraudulent misrepresentation and inducement, among other claims, and involves top Gators booster Hugh Hathcock and former staffer Marcus Castro-Walker.
Jaden Rashada, who transferred to Arizona State after a failed NIL deal at Florida, has entered the transfer portal after just one year with the Sun Devils. The quarterback, who started two games as a true freshman before getting injured, is now seeking a new school for his college career. Georgia is reportedly interested in recruiting him, potentially leading to a return to the SEC East.
Fox Sports considered offering a NIL deal to Caitlin Clark to entice her to stay in college basketball for another year, as she has been a ratings sensation. However, Clark has declared for the 2024 WNBA Draft, likely to be the first overall pick. Her games have drawn massive audiences, and Fox had hoped for another season with her at Iowa. Despite the potential economic case for such a deal, it never materialized as Clark's decision to enter the WNBA Draft was already made.
Mercy Miller, son of Master P and a top high school basketball prospect, has signed a $1.4 million NIL deal with Sweetkiwi, a greek yogurt company, as their brand ambassador. The 4-star shooting guard from California's Notre Dame High School is making waves on the court and has committed to Houston. His partnership with Sweetkiwi aligns with his focus on health and flavor, and the company aims to promote healthy lifestyles among young athletes. With impressive performances and a famous father who also pursued basketball, Miller is poised to make a mark in the sport.
Florida State's football program was hit with a Level II recruiting violation and penalties after an assistant coach facilitated an impermissible recruiting contact between a transfer prospect and a booster who promised the player an NIL deal worth $15,000 a month. The coach, identified as offensive coordinator Alex Atkins, received a three-game suspension, and the program was placed on a two-year probation, fined, and had scholarships reduced. The NCAA also imposed penalties on the booster and the collective involved. This marks the first time the NCAA has punished a school for using name, image, and likeness compensation as a recruiting inducement.
Five-star quarterback recruit Dylan Raiola, who recently signed with Nebraska, has landed a multi-year NIL deal with Panini America. The partnership includes autographed trading cards and marketing, with Raiola's first trading cards expected to be featured in Panini's upcoming collegiate products. Raiola, the son of former Nebraska and NFL offensive lineman Dominic Raiola, is highly regarded and holds significant market value in the NIL Era. This deal further solidifies his stature and potential impact on the NIL market at Nebraska.
Ohio State head coach Ryan Day and Alabama head coach Nick Saban endorse the use of helmet communication devices in college football to combat sign-stealing, with the NCAA considering adopting electronic communications permanently. Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud and former tackle Dawand Jones comment on Michigan's alleged sign-stealing operation, while Ohio State tight end Cade Stover signs an NIL deal with Snickers. Stover's versatility and impressive performances have made him a brand ambassador for the candy bar, adding to his previous NIL deals.