THE READ OPTION: Former Illinois player accuses head coach of abuse

Former Illinois offensive lineman Simon Cvijanovic released allegations of abuse and negligence against Tim Beckman’s program over the span of several hours Sunday. He accused Beckman of “attacking” a player and forcing players to play through injuries, as well as Illinois of employing unqualified team medical personnel.

He also called for athletes to unionize, an issue that’s been on hold as Northwestern players wait out that process.

Other Illini athletes responded, with a wide range of reactions, and Beckman released a statement that said, in part, “We have continued to support him with medical care an academic scholarship and academic advising. We cannot make any student accept our support.”

The Aggies have some advantages, like playing nationally televised games on CBS and ESPN, rather than on the Longhorn Network — that is to say, “real TV,” according to the Texas A&M chancellor.

Puppies! We ranked all of the dog mascots in college football. Spoiler alert: They’re all the best.

Trey Taormina, USA Today Sports

A new Playoff proposal. If there were an eight-team playoff in college football last season, Gary Patterson’s TCU team would have been in. There are numerous obstacles to expanding the field, but Patterson has an idea — get rid of conference championships.

Gurley law. After Georgia running back Todd Gurley was suspended for receiving money for autographs, the state of Georgia passed a law that punishes people who “bribe or entice college athletes to knowingly break NCAA rules by taking money.”

Everett Golson fallout. While the former Notre Dame QB might be leaning toward an SEC transfer, what’s this all mean for the Irish?

USC HYPE. The Trojans could be a top-10 team! But that could end horribly.

Every conference tiebreaker rule. Bookmark this page for the fall.

BYU life. Learn up on what LDS athletes actually do during missionary service.

More Jameis Winston. He’s officially countersued his accuser. The full document is here.

Teddy Bridgewater goes to prom. Teddy Bridgewater might not live in Louisville anymore, but he’s still involved in the community, and this past weekend, he took a girl from a Louisville high school to prom.