The Washington Times

SNYDER: Too many bowls have ruined a good thing

ANALYSIS/OPINION:

Once again, it’s to check off some items on my “TIDU List” — Things I Don’t Understand: 

• How copious bowl games are a good thing.

In the midst of 33 games in 24 days, ESPN stretches the definition of “Bowl Week” and our limit for mediocrity. A dozen teams have .500 records and another — Georgia Tech — is 6-7. Fans can consume 14 consecutive hours of games Dec. 29, including one at Yankee Stadium, where the forecast calls for 30 degrees and possibly snow.

The “less is more” concept should apply to bowl season.

• Why Nick Saban would stay at Alabama.

He’s in overtime with the Crimson Tide, finishing his sixth season after no more than five anywhere else. There’s no debate about his success as Alabama attempts to win its third national title in four seasons. At 61 years old and the state’s most powerful figure, Saban could quell his wanderlust and remain for good.

But the pressure at Alabama and the NFL challenge create a strong push-pull effect.

• How Adam LaRoche gets a third year.

The Nationals have all the leverage in dealing with the gold-gloving, silver-slugging first baseman. They’re not desperate, with Michael Morse/Tyler Moore ready to fill in, while LaRoche’s prospective bidders are reluctant to relinquish a first-round pick in signing the 33-year-old. The Nats have no incentive to offer LaRoche the three-year deal he wants, even if he finds it elsewhere.

Unfortunately, LaRoche picked a bad time for a career year.

• Why Tim Tebow doesn’t switch positions already.

The fact that he enamors NFL owners more than NFL coaches should be a clue. Only his hometown Jacksonville Jaguars reportedly are interested in Tebow, because owner Shad Khan needs to sell tickets. But Tebow is too inaccurate to play QB, too slow to play RB and too unathletic to play TE.

If he’s truly a team player, Tebow will line up where he belongs: fullback or H-back.

• How Alex Len became the potential No. 1 pick.

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About the Author

Deron Snyder

Deron Snyder is an award-winning journalist and Washington Times sports columnist with more than 25 years of experience. He has worked at USA Today and his column was syndicated in Gannett’ 80-plus newspapers from 2000-2009, appearing in The Arizona Republic, The Indianapolis Star, The Detroit News and many others. Follow Deron on Twitter @Its_Ball_Good or email him at deronsnyder@gmail.com.

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