It’s been a little while since someone around here has done a morning news and notes piece. It’s been even longer since I’ve published one on this here website. So let’s do some news and notes.

We’ve still got this website for a little while longer. Let’s enjoy it while we still can, shall we?

Mississippi State news and notes from around the internet

• “Saturday Night in Death Valley A Big Opportunity for Rogers” by Evan Ertel, Maroon and White Nation - I’m a big fan of Evan’s writing and his work. He’s incredibly creative and does a great job of sharing his voice wherever and whenever he writes. I fully endorse reading anything he publishes. I know I plan on it. Oh, also, well, this weekend is a huge opportunity for Mississippi State to get a huge win. Don’t take my word on it. Go read Evan’s words.
• “Mississippi State football fans sound off on upcoming LSU game” by Ethan Lee, The Underdog Tribune - OK, so, yeah, this one is my work. I like engaging with folks online and getting their thoughts on various matters. This is a way for me to share what y’all think about the upcoming Mississippi State-LSU game. All you need is a grand total of five words and a twitter account. That’s it.
• “Former THS standout Jett Johnson supporting Tupelo Police through new NIL deal” by Parrish Alford, Daily Journal - This is a really cool deal that Jett Johnson has going and it’s a cool way to give back to the community. I’m all on board with folks finding ways to give back to their community.
• “WATCH: Mississippi State football picks off Arizona QB in bizarre play” by Ethan Lee, The Underdog Tribune - Yes, me again, I have nothing consequential to add here. I just REALLY like this particular play and I think it’s worth watching regularly. College football is sometimes very absurd and I think we should embrace all of the nonsense (and all of the cool things) that comes with it from time to time.

Really cool interview involving a member of the 2014 Mississippi State Bulldogs football team

Ben Beckwith went over and did a pretty cool interview on the Thunder & Lightning podcast (radio show?) and it’s something you should check out ahead of this weekend’s game against LSU.

Just general nonsense that is going on elsewhere

A dude in Texas caught a dinosaur.

I’ve been alligator hunting before. I did not catch a dinosaur. That’s a dinosaur.

Today’s tunes:

I love Flatland Cavalry. They make good music. Really good music, in fact. Stuff I think you should listen to. Sure, they like Texas Tech, but don’t let that take away from the fact that their work is solid and their songwriting is brilliant. I’ve seen them live. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Yes, this is the Hokey Pokey. We’re going to listen to it today. It’s one of my son’s favorite songs. This version is fantastic. It has no business being as good as it is. So let’s listen. It’s a classic.

OK, back on topic a bit. Let’s focus and finish strong. Like with Caamp’s Apple Tree Blues. It’s delightful and pleasant to listen to. I’ve seen these guys perform as well and they definitely put on a fun show.