MAURA CAREY Sports Writer, Author at The Rapid City Post

FILE - Arkansas coach John Calipari stands on the sidelines against Mississippi State during an NCAA college basketball game, March 8, 2025, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods, File)

Arkansas coach John Calipari vows to retire before adopting transactional approach

October 14, 2025

Arkansas coach John Calipari is speaking out against the current name, image and likeness era in college sports, saying he refuses to become a “transactional” coach. Speaking at SEC basketball media days, Calipari emphasized the importance of being transformational rather than paying players to perform. He acknowledges the changes in college athletics, including softened transfer guidelines and the ability for students to profit from their celebrity.

Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) throws a pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Georgia, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Colin Hubbard)

How Alabama’s Week 1 loss fueled a statement-making victory over Georgia

September 27, 2025

Alabama has turned its season around with a 24-21 victory over No. 5 Georgia, ending the Bulldogs’ 33-game home winning streak. The win comes four weeks after Alabama’s surprising opening loss to unranked Florida State. Coach Kalen DeBoer, in his second year, faced criticism but has led the No. 17 Crimson Tide to a strong comeback. Ty Simpson threw for 276 yards and two touchdowns against Georgia. DeBoer credits the team’s renewed focus and determination for the success. Alabama now plays with a chip on its shoulder, aiming to maintain this momentum throughout the season.

FILE - Ohio State quarterback Will Howard (18) runs against Texas during the second half of the Cotton Bowl College Football Playoff semifinal game, Jan. 10, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File)

SEC coaches and players defend their dominance amid Big Ten’s recent success

July 17, 2025

The SEC Media Days this week highlighted the ongoing rivalry between the SEC and the Big Ten in college football. SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey emphasized the conference’s dominance, citing top TV viewership and NFL draft picks. Over the past decade, the SEC has won six national championships, but the last two victories — by Michigan and Ohio State — have fueled competition. Coaches and players, like Missouri’s Eli Drinkwitz, defended the SEC as the strongest conference. The rivalry continues with key matchups early this season.

The SEC and Big Ten are currently at a standstill over the College Football Playoff format

July 14, 2025

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey says the SEC and Big Ten have not agreed on a College Football Playoff format beyond this season. Sankey noted frequent discussions with Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti but highlighted differing views on playoff allocations. The current 12-team playoff guarantees spots for the five highest-ranked conference champions. Sankey emphasized collaboration but stated changes could proceed without unanimous agreement. The CFP contract allows the SEC and Big Ten to propose and impose changes if aligned.

The road ahead after the NCAA settlement comes with risk, reward and warnings

June 12, 2025

The annual National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics convention this week included a very hot topic: The $2.8 billion NCAA antitrust settlement. On July 1, schools that opt in will embark on a new era of revenue sharing, changing the game both on and off the field. There are risks, warnings and rewards to come.

FILE - NCAA President Charlie Baker speaks during the organizations Division I Business Session at their annual convention, Jan. 15, 2025, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV,File)

March Madness bracket expansion would add value and could be decided in next few months, Baker says

May 29, 2025

NCAA President Charlie Baker sees value in expanding the NCAA Tournament by a handful of teams and wants to reach a decision on the matter in the next few months. Baker spoke Thursday during Big 12 spring meetings, where conference leaders are discussing everything from the multi-billion dollar revenue-sharing settlement to complexities brought on by the transfer portal and name, image and likeness. Baker said there are flaws in the current formula and it would be beneficial to provide an opportunity to four or eight more teams.

MAURA CAREY Sports Writer.