Update: State braced for Battle over the Cowbells

[31to6]

I don't believe it is legal for the SEC to do this according the NCAA noisemaker rules.  I think they can assess a fine against the institution....but cannot lay out on-field penalties.

In 2006 the SEC was granted an exception from the NCAA to continue imposing the SEC artificial noisemaker penalties during conference games. These are on-field penalties (up to 15 yards on the 3rd infraction).

For this season only there is a trial policy to allow MSU to have cowbells at the game with violations generating a fine of $5000, $25000 and $50,000 per game. If this new compromise is not successful the ban may be be re-instituted for cowbells in the 2011 season.

MSU has already been notified before our game that they were going to be fined for their previous two games:
"The league office has informed MSU officials that the school will be fined, but Mississippi State athletic director Scott Stricklin says the exact dollar amount on the punishment will be determined by how State fans behave at the final two home games of the season."
( http://www.starkvilledailynews.com/content/msu-be-fined-cowbell-violations )

[31to6]

Addendum: The policy is cumulative, so the fine for their 4 home games would be $130,000 if the policy were enforced on all 4 games. (Which is chump change in college football--about the cost of a 4* recruit ).

[Michael Porkleone]

In this case it didn't. Get better that is. That's exactly where all you goofy juvenile punks think you got to be half soused and standing the entire game in order to be a "real fan".  You don't.

I'm 30.

I consider being called juvenile a compliment.

Though, i'm not quite sure i'm a punk because I yell at a football game but I appreciate the insult.

[Melorock089]

Make stadium safe cowbells. Have a rubber ball with a rubber shell or whatnot. Not everyone will follow the rule, but it's a step forwards I think.

[hawgeathawg]

In this case it didn't. Get better that is. That's exactly where all you goofy juvenile punks think you got to be half soused and standing the entire game in order to be a "real fan".  You don't.

I'm 43, so I don't do the half-soused part anymore, but I don't have a problem with anyone standing and cheering the whole game. If you can't see, stand up (and make some noise while you're at it). For me, it's not about being a "real" fan. I want to make our house as tough a place to play for opposing teams as I can.

[josh_sec33]

I heard them clear as DAY on the radio driving home Saturday night. My wife even asked if those cowbells were legal or not, they were that obvious. During overtime, Wife had to turn the volume down on the radio because the cowbells were bothering her.

[Foots]

Not saying you are lying. I am sure you couldn't hear them where you were sitting. Were you in the student section or old folks section?  The fans you were around were probably obeying the rules and drowning them out. But even the announcers on TV could hear them and mentioned the infraction a few times times. Go back and watch the replay. You can hear them several times when we have the ball. Not every time. But quite a few times. The locusts were buzzing.

Next time I will decide to stay home and watch it on television to get a more accurate assessment. Actually being at the game is a clear liability.

Both of you are correct. I was at the game as well, and didn't really hear any cowbells when they weren't supposed to be using them. However, when I got home and watched it on the DVR, I could hear them a lot better on TV.

[bhshawgfan]

I was in the MSU student section( wearing my hog stuff of coarse) and anytime a person would be ringing the cowbell during a time that wasn't allowed at least 10-15 people would turn and yell at them to stop. 

[big_ol_meat]

It's Miss State... they have a trashy stadium in a trashy town. Do you really expect them to ahear to any sort of rules.

You must have found the ghetto I didn't.  I spent a week there about 2 months ago and loved it.  Beautiful town and campus.  The stadium was amazing Saturday.  Small and "herding" people into the stadium was a pain but it looked nice. 

When they cut to the jumbotron during the play occasionally, you would see State fans still ringing the cowbell.  Quite a few people had the annoying noisemakers from the World Cup.  Percentage wise I think they did a great job controlling the bell.  Again you have that many people you're going to have bad apples.  I just thought it was funny they zoomed in on one group and they were ringing while we were snapping the ball.

[razorback386]

Wow.

It is hard to believe that people can be at an event and have such WILDLY differing opinions of what happened.

I have always been against the cowbells, but came away last night favoring them.

I thought it was awesome the way they used the bells before the game, during stoppage of play, etc.

And I paid a lot of attention to the issue and I can state unequivocally there were hardly any cowbells being used when we were at the line of scrimmage, during plays, etc. The video screen often said "use your bells responsibly" (which is pretty funny if you think about it) and I am positive that was the case. I just think those who say the bells were used at the wrong times, according to the compromise, are wrong.

I loved the atmosphere at the game last night -- full house and a lot of excitement. Others have said we could use some tips from the Misstake folks on "excitement promotions" and I agree with them.

Couldn't disagree more. I think the reason people have the varying accounts simply depends on where they were sitting. For you to say you're positive they are "wrong" seems kind of silly. I was at the game also, and while the improper usage wasn't too bad during most of the game (just smatterings here and there, and pockets of drunk fans who proudly didn't care) during both overtimes it was ridiculous. I understand getting caught up in the moment, and wanting to help your team win a big game and sort the rest out later, but the fact is that during both overtimes people were ringing those cowbells on seemingly every offensive possession we had.

I will admit that I do personally hate the cowbells, and they seem to me to be an absolutely blatant rule violation. I don't even understand why the SEC would make the compromise. Seems very unfair.

I think the only responsible opinion would be regarding whether or not the people around you may have been ringing them inappropriately or not, as opposed to making a blanket judgment and declaring everyone else must be wrong.

Also, speaking of drunk fans, did it seem to anyone else like Miss State had about a million of them in the stands? Don't get me wrong, I fully understand how many people get loaded pregame and pour into our stadium as well, but Miss State fans were pretty impressive in their quantity. Maybe it was just where I was sitting, (no blanket judgments of course) but there were multiple people just in proximity to my seat that had carried in their own cups and were pounding back during the game, yelling, wrestling around with eachother, a fight almost broke out, and just lots of general drunkenness.

Though there was also the drunk Hog fan who was giving all of us a bad name and then got escorted out by the police for instigating a near fight with some MSU fans. The officer then immediately pulled a full bottle of whiskey out of the guy's jacket. Very unfortunate. Guy looked like Milton Waddams (stapler guy) from Office Space.

Also, there was literally at least one kid with a vuvuzela. It was bright green. I do not believe that was included in the compromise.

[Michael Porkleone]

I'm 43, so I don't do the half-soused part anymore, but I don't have a problem with anyone standing and cheering the whole game. If you can't see, stand up (and make some noise while you're at it). For me, it's not about being a "real" fan. I want to make our house as tough a place to play for opposing teams as I can.

But then Root would bet you up.

[Root66]

I'm 43, so I don't do the half-soused part anymore, but I don't have a problem with anyone standing and cheering the whole game. If you can't see, stand up (and make some noise while you're at it). For me, it's not about being a "real" fan. I want to make our house as tough a place to play for opposing teams as I can.

The point is...it can be just "as tough a place to play" with everybody firmly seated on their asses yelling their GD brains out except for a TD, a crucial first down, an interception etcetra. You DO NOT need to stand the entire freaking game. No visiting player or coach down on the field is WATCHING you or anybody else stand up ANYWAY. And they damn sure have already seen people stand up. It is not a phenomenon. Besides, if  they (the players) are so disoriented by people standing up, we are probably stomping their asses badly anyway.

Besides, standing then sitting then standing then sitting is better for your legs. Get it?

[N HOG]

Couldn't disagree more. I think the reason people have the varying accounts simply depends on where they were sitting. For you to say you're positive they are "wrong" seems kind of silly. I was at the game also, and while the improper usage wasn't too bad during most of the game (just smatterings here and there, and pockets of drunk fans who proudly didn't care) during both overtimes it was ridiculous. I understand getting caught up in the moment, and wanting to help your team win a big game and sort the rest out later, but the fact is that during both overtimes people were ringing those cowbells on seemingly every offensive possession we had.

I will admit that I do personally hate the cowbells, and they seem to me to be an absolutely blatant rule violation. I don't even understand why the SEC would make the compromise. Seems very unfair.

I think the only responsible opinion would be regarding whether or not the people around you may have been ringing them inappropriately or not, as opposed to making a blanket judgment and declaring everyone else must be wrong.

Also, speaking of drunk fans, did it seem to anyone else like Miss State had about a million of them in the stands? Don't get me wrong, I fully understand how many people get loaded pregame and pour into our stadium as well, but Miss State fans were pretty impressive in their quantity. Maybe it was just where I was sitting, (no blanket judgments of course) but there were multiple people just in proximity to my seat that had carried in their own cups and were pounding back during the game, yelling, wrestling around with eachother, a fight almost broke out, and just lots of general drunkenness.

Though there was also the drunk Hog fan who was giving all of us a bad name and then got escorted out by the police for instigating a near fight with some MSU fans. The officer then immediately pulled a full bottle of whiskey out of the guy's jacket. Very unfortunate. Guy looked like Milton Waddams (stapler guy) from Office Space.

Also, there was literally at least one kid with a vuvuzela. It was bright green. I do not believe that was included in the compromise.

Glad I wasn't sitting where you were.

Sorry for your unpleasant experience.

Mine was exactly the opposite.

[N HOG]

I was in the MSU student section( wearing my hog stuff of coarse) and anytime a person would be ringing the cowbell during a time that wasn't allowed at least 10-15 people would turn and yell at them to stop. 

This is what I saw.

[lookinupthehill]

In the section I was in they were good most of the game.  However in the OT, they were ringing pretty much anytime we had the ball.  It's okay, though, we won... plus, I got me one for a souvenir... 

[LRHawg]

I just watched the replay of the game on ESPNU. During Hockers field goal attempt in overtime ALMOST EVERYONE in the stands behind the goal posts was ringing them.

[SWAhog]

cowbells, darn near as irritating as that crazy rooster crowing at SCe     

[HawgFanBoy]

Maybe it was just my imagination, but I could've sworn I heard a few MSU fans ringing the cowbells when they were on offense. I thought "What are you thinking?"

[hillhog]

I watched the entire game on tv, the policy was abused the ENTIRE game. However, I don't expect the SEC to do anything like banning the bells. Gutless bunch. Enforce only the rules they want to, encourage game officials to orchestrate winners of certain games to enable more favorable placement of teams come bowl time. I doubt this is the complete list but imo it's enough to have them tar and feathered.

[Michael Porkleone]

I just watched the replay of the game on ESPNU. During Hockers field goal attempt in overtime ALMOST EVERYONE in the stands behind the goal posts was ringing them.

Student section.

Bunch of cheaters.

[big_ol_meat]

I just watched a replay of the game at my friend's house.  I could hear cow bells the entire time. While at the game I couldn't.  I imagine I was a lot like the players.  More concerned with what was on the field than a few dozen cowbells ringing. 

Overtime was an exception.  The entire stadium seemed to have a cowbell.  I know this because it sounded like 50K of them decided to ring by my ear. 

[jbcarol]

"I don't know how anyone could read the rule that was put in place and not see compliance (on MSU's behalf).  I didn't hear any bells when play was going on.  There was a marked difference between timeouts, when you could ring them, and then when it was time to just yell."

A "tone deaf" State AD Scott Stricklin claiming those cow bells were not ringing during play for the Hog game and that no fines nor permanent ban should be levied by the SEC.

[budcampbellfan]

Losing beloved traditions?  Ask Ole Miss for sympathy.

[jbcarol]

Also The Grove will open at 7 a.m. Black Friday

UM also reminded fans earlier this week that artificial noisemakers (read: Mississippi State's cowbells) aren't allowed at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium and encouraged fans to text a pre-assigned number to report their use.

Local problem.  WE'LL HANDLE IT!

[Corkscrew Johnson]

Shouldn't MSU fans just text in different sections and seat numbers constantly?

Or turn in the Ole Miss head coach

[Dropkick]

Probably wont need any cowbells to beat the "Clown Prince of Mississippi".

[Ftsmithmike]

Shouldn't MSU fans just text in different sections and seat numbers constantly?

Someone let them know. They may be from the good half of Mississippi but they are from the same school system and I doubt they will figure it out on thier own.

[Big Papa Satan]

encouraged fans to text a pre-assigned number to report their use.

Wonder if we can get ahold of that number and flood them with texts? 

Some win might be had.

[jbcarol]

ARTIFICIAL NOISEMAKERS

A reminder that artificial noisemakers are not allowed inside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.  Fans will be asked to return prohibited items to their cars before entering the stadium. The Ole Miss Athletics Department will not be responsible for items left at the gate.  Items confiscated inside Vaught-Hemingway Stadium may be picked up in the South Endzone first aid station after the game is over.

All fans are asked to utilize the stadium text message system for any prohibited items inside Vaught Hemingway Stadium. Text "Rebs" <space> "issue & location" to 69050 and stadium personnel will respond accordingly.

[jbcarol]

Link to access seating chart info for Vaught-Hemingway Stadium and Scott Hollingsworth Field

The Seating Chart is the eighth item on the pick list on the left.

Allows those who have a need to reference a specific seat location or general area if necessary on Saturday.

[SpareRib]

Oh, man ... I can see this coming.  That text inbox is gonna look like the Walmart Black Friday parking lot.

[HoginIllinois]

Rebs
Clown impersonating coach
OM sideline

[SteveInArk]

Rebs - Alcohol in Use - All seats in stadium

[DeltaBoy]

Great lets melt that sucker down!!!

[farmhawg]

Crap from ole piss, like this makes me think motho is a match made in heaven for them....

[jbcarol]

Wonder if we can get ahold of that number and flood them with texts? 

Some win might be had.

[jbcarol]

In an interesting choice of words Ole Miss Defensive Coordinator Tyrone Nix bemoaned a lack of a "true bell cow" following the loss to State.

[SteveInArk]

[Razorwho]

still hate those FREAKING HORRIBLE Cowbells.

[StuttHog]

+1

[jbcarol]

State will soon find out how much it owes the Southeastern Conference for violating the cowbell compromise

SEC commissioner Mike Slive is reviewing the violations and a decision on fines is expected to be made this month, SEC spokesman Charles Bloom said Tuesday.

The fine structure penalizes MSU $5,000 for the first offense, $25,000 for the second offense and $50,000 for the third offense.

[Jimmy]

I am FOR banning the M-State cowbells for all games EXCEPT the Egg Bowl. 

[Michael Porkleone]

State will soon find out how much it owes the Southeastern Conference for violating the cowbell compromise

If Mike Slive uses my video footage can I sue?

Well, I guess I can't since I was technically videoing an SEC game illegally. 

[jbcarol]

State AD Scott Stricklin stumps to keep the Cowbell

The deliberate poisoning of the live oaks at Toomer's Corner at Auburn hits close to home for Mississippi State athletic director Scott Stricklin.

[jbcarol]

A year after MSU athletic director Scott Stricklin's victorious battle - a one-year piece of legislation allowing MSU fans to clang the bells during certain times in football games - the Bulldogs' foremost tradition could again be in jeopardy this week

No athletic directors are decrying MSU's tradition, the SEC office has remained quiet and there's no talk of strengthening the rules.

"I don't know what the silence means, but I hope it means that they feel like we've addressed the concerns and we're allowed continue to do what we did this past season," Stricklin said.

Last year, Stricklin expected the league to possibly strengthen its 36-year-old policy that banned the use of artificial noisemakers.

Stricklin, along with school president Mark Keenum, stepped in, proposed a compromise and, ultimately, the SEC's athletic directors and presidents agreed for a one-year trial allowing cowbells to be carried and used at certain times during games.
But that trial run could end this week at the meetings in Destin, Fla...

[jbcarol]

The last public comments on cowbells came in October, when SEC commissioner Mike Slive said MSU had violated the cowbell compromise and then issued a strong warning: continued irreverence could result in the SEC banning the bells from stadiums in 2011.

Fans responded in the final two home games against Kentucky and Arkansas, exhibiting much better "cowbell decorum."

Slive - along with MSU - is named in a lawsuit filed by an MSU student who says he was attacked by a cowbell during the Egg Bowl in 2009, when fans were not allowed to carry artificial noisemakers into Scott Field under previous SEC legislation.
Asked whether Slive and the SEC had remained quiet on the topic of cowbells because of the suit seeking unspecified damages, Bloom responded: "We cannot comment on litigation."

[jbcarol]

Per Brandon Marcello, Mullen compared the threat to cowbells to Toomer's Corner poisoning...

[jbcarol]

Per Solomon, SEC coaches and ADs supported giving MSU another year with cowbells. ADs initially voted against. Changed after FB coach support.

BMarcello reports the fine for 2010 will be announced Friday.

[greasy_corner]

I'd imagine if we would have lost to state last year, many more around here would be up in arms over this.  I respect tradition, but this is one of very few the SEC should lose.  Wishy-washy reactions from fellow conference members doesn't help the situation.  Get behind the AD's, get behind Slive, and get these banned.  I suppose Mullen is too likeable of a guy for the other coaches at the moment....just wait till he wins more over the next couple of years.

[The Hogfather]

I'd imagine if we would have lost to state last year, many more around here would be up in arms over this.  I respect tradition, but this is one of very few the SEC should lose.  Wishy-washy reactions from fellow conference members doesn't help the situation.  Get behind the AD's, get behind Slive, and get these banned.  I suppose Mullen is too likeable of a guy for the other coaches at the moment....just wait till he wins more over the next couple of years.

This is a joke.  We need to start a new "tradition" of beating up the opposition's best players before every game.

Either that, or just run one of those tornado sirens the whole time the opposition has the ball, while simultaneously playing Barry Manilow over the loudspeaker.