Head games: A University of Alabama fan accused of poisoning Auburn University’s landmark oak trees in a fit of football rivalry voluntarily surrendered for psychiatric testing at a state mental facility today, likely delaying his trial yet again. Prosecutors had asked the judge to revoke Harvey Updyke’s bond following his arrest earlier this month during a dispute at a store in Hammond, and a judge issued an arrest warrant Wednesday. But with a Hammond police officer in court ready to testify about what happened in a confrontation at a home improvement store, Updyke’s lawyers skipped a formal bond hearing and instead announced their client would turn himself in for testing at Taylor Hardin Secure Medical Facility, a state-run institution in Tuscaloosa. The Associated Press has the full story here.
Attn: Green Bay: Less than 24 hours after agreeing to a deal with the league’s 122 officials, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spoke to reporters on a conference call today and expressed remorse for an uneven start to the season due to the controversial performance of replacement referees. “Sorry to have to put our fans through that,” Goodell said, acknowledging a torrid, sometimes out-of-control showing from the replacement refs. Goodell acknowledged they were never ready for the speed of the game or its complexities, and expressed hope for a return to normalcy.
Fore! The Ryder Cup started on an ominous note for Tiger Woods today. During a practice round for the match pitting America’s greatest golfers against Europe’s, Woods’ tee shot went wild and conked a fan on the head. The drive came on No. 18 at Medinah Country Club outside of Chicago. The spectator reportedly told Woods later that it wasn’t the golfer’s fault, and Woods drew a laugh by saying it was. Woods repeatedly apologized and ended up signing a glove for the fan, who was knocked out cold by the ball and taken to first aid.
