Marshall Expects Invite From Conference USA

Marshall University’s board of governors voted unanimously Friday to authorize President Dan Angel to pursue membership in Conference USA.

School officials believe an invitation is imminent, and Angel said the university wants to begin play in Conference USA in 2005.

Angel said the conference is awaiting the departure of some members before it can invite Marshall, the Mid-American Conference’s most successful football program since joining in 1997.

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Penn State Coach Joe Paterno issued an apology for comments he made Tuesday regarding the drunk driving arrest of receiver Tony Johnson. Said Paterno: “As I look back, maybe it appeared I rationalized Tony’s actions too much.... I think anyone who jeopardizes the lives of others by driving under the influence of alcohol was wrong.”

Abram Elam, a former Notre Dame player convicted of sexual battery, was given an 18-month suspended sentence.... Brandon Lockheart, an Oregon State offensive tackle from Los Angeles, has been charged with manufacture, delivery and possession of a controlled substance.