THEY GAVE IT ALL THEY HAD BUT FELL SHORT AGAINST THE TIDE AND THE REFS

Was rooting loud and clear for my beloved University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles as they headed into the abayss that is Tuscaloosa, Alabama for what will likely be their final matchup with the Alabama Crimson Tide for the forseeable future.

The Eagles have had a tough couple of weeks, having to make their base at the University of Memphis in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and postponing their first game against Conference USA rival Tulane University because of the storm's destruction. Thirty-five players on the Golden Eagles squad were from the area affected by Katrina. But they made a game of it against the Tide, leading by four at the half. But Alabama came back after the break, winning the contest 30-21.

While the half million dollar plus payoff was good, many USM fans will not miss this rivalry and Alabama's insistance on playing every year at their house, and with Southeastern Conference officials...one definate point of contention, especially after some fans call some questionable penatlies in previous games.