randy_byers | Image of the Year (Reply)

I try not to post much about sports here, but this once I'll try to compensate by tying this to social commentary. This is University of Oregon linebacker Tony Washington recovering a fumble by Florida State University quarterback Jameis Winston. Washington returned the fumble for a touchdown that really blew the game open for the Ducks, who went on to win 59-20 and earn a place in the national championship game. Winston's fumble was comical, at least if you aren't an FSU fan, and the internet had a field day with it. (I particularly recommend scrolling down to the video that plugs in pro wrestler Randy Orton as an explanation for both Winston's and a nearby referee's falls.)

After the game several UO players chanted "No Means No," in an apparent jab at Winston, who was absolved of rape charges under circumstances that a lot of people found suspicious. That's a pretty edgy thing to do, and UO coach Mark Helfrich said the players would be disciplined. Meanwhile I'm trying to decide whether it's a sign of a sea change that football players would be taunting an opposition player with such a progressive sexual message.

Weird old world. Go Ducks!