Big expose’ in this week’s Sports Illustrated. Oklahoma State University Football charged with major recruiting violations. And, this is only the beginning. Shock and surprise!!

I don’t know what the general public knows. I do not know how the media can be surprised. You may not have known the details, but you knew. Nothing is secret unless you are the only one that knows. However, like Penn State as long as nobody says anything it’s okay. What’s funny is that the charges, in many ways, sound like a version of the corporate world.

I am not saying yes or no about anything. I am saying that we live in a hypocritical world that portrays one thing publicly and plays a different game in the dark. My opinion nor yours will make any difference until we attack the issue at the source.

One of the primary issues is the players are receiving cash payments from boosters, i.e., friends of the program. I am clear that this happens with the majority of schools in a majority of the conferences. And, those who know about it don’t do anything for fear of losing someone’s support. It’s not cool to be a snitch in our culture. Also, you are never going to tell the guy downtown that he can’t do something he wants to do, so you can’t enforce the rule.

Maybe what’s happening is perfect for the environment that supports it. Let’s look at the ingredients for this “stew:”

1. Highly competitive environment influenced by the media
2. Young guys and gals are promised the “college experience,” and have no resources to enjoy it. You know … you’re in the candy store without a dime in your pocket.
3. Fans and coaches who have no problem with “win at all cost.”
4. Large amounts of cash at stake.

There are other “spices” to add to this stew called “temptation.”

There are no accidents. I am not making a moral judgement. Throw out the current rule book. It’s a joke. Organize around doing what works and what can be enforced. Stiff money consequences to the university would be one place I would look. One sheet of paper maybe two ought to do it.