HOME OPENER
woven life | 5
SPORTS | 6 125th YEAR | ISSUE 5 @REFLECTORONLINE f /REFLECTORONLINE
SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
FRIDAY
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
Renowned chemical engineering professor dies Tuesday BY KRISTEN SPINK Managing Editor
On Tuesday, longtime Mississippi State University professor Rebecca Toghiani passed away after serving the university for 24 years as a professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering.
Jason Keith, professor and director of the Department of Chemical Engineering, said in an email that Toghiani mentored students both in chemical engineering and in life. “Becky’s class was never the easiest, yet it was highly rated among our students,” Keith said. “She served the department,
college and the university with passion.” Toghiani’s accomplishments include the Bagley College of Engineering Career Award, being named Professor of the Year, the Outstanding Faculty Woman Award and the John Grisham Master Teacher Award. Keith said Toghiani’s research
greatly furthered the mission of the School of Chemical Engineering. “Her research grants spanned a range of chemical engineering subjects. These include the thermodynamics of mixtures, where she developed a state of the art facility for VLE measurement,” he said. “She expanded our col-
lective expertise in solubilities in inorganic systems, including double-salt chemistry, high ionic strength solution chemis- Toghiani try, computational chemistry, density functional
theory and legacy nuclear waste remediation.” Leon Carrubba, senior chemical engineering major, took two of Toghiani’s classes and said “Dr. R,” as her students called her, took an early retirement due to illness about a year and a half ago but still guest lectured occasionally. SEE TOGHIANI, 2
Honor code violations decreased in 2012-2013 BY ZACK ORSBORN Multimedia Editor
When Karyn Brown, instructor of communication, caught a student copying another student’s work and violating Mississippi State University’s Student Honor Code, not only did she feel like she was being taken advantage of, she felt disappointment. “You feel that they are insulting your intelligence,” Brown said. “Once you calm down, you realize that you know they didn’t do it with the intention to hurt you. They found themselves in a bad situation and made a bad choice.” Through recent years, a rising trend occurred as more cases of academic misconduct were reported. However, new statistics show in 2012 and 2013, the trend decreased by 9.8 percent.
Before the honor code was implemented in 2007, only 50 cases of academic misconduct were reported per year. James Orr, director of the Student Honor Code Office, said a centralized location to report academic misconduct caused the previous increasing trend. “When we implemented an honor code, every year the number of cases reported increased. That didn’t increase because more cheating was occurring,” he said. To explain the trend change, Orr said within a six or seven-year period, reports will increase, but once the period ends, reports start to decrease. “At some point, you’ll hit a leveling off point where we’ll have a consistent amount of cases reported,” Orr said. He said students who violate
the honor code do not try to cheat the system, they are just not aware they break the honor code. Bill Kibler, vice president for Student Affairs, researched academic integrity and honor codes for 20 years before supervising the Student Honor Code Office. He said he wants to expand the test proctoring program the office has implemented in the past to reduce cheating. “Slowly that has grown where we are having more and more faculty that are asked for trained proctors to come and help,” he said. “That reduces the temptation in the classroom.” Orr gave a presentation to stress the importance of following the honor code on August 20, giving examples of types of academic misconduct like plagiarism, cheating, complicity and data or source fabrication. SEE CHEATERS, 2
ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR
Exotic animals found in Starkville house BY MARY KATE MCGOWAN Staff Writer
Starkville Police Department received an off-campus noise complaint on Aug. 28, but the police did not find a party or rowdy college students. They found exotic animals. The animals lived with a Mississippi State University senior veterinary student at 203 Park Avenue in Starkville. The student’s name has not been released because no charges have been filed against him. Among these animals were exotic and rare birds, snakes, frogs and two servals — African cats. One of the snakes was reported to be blue and appear velvety. Stephanie Perkins, a Starkville Police Department detective, said the house was obviously being used as a breeding facility. “He (the student) even told us that he breeds the species together,” Perkins said. “You
can’t have a commercial business in a residential area. That was one of the main things that we were looking at.” Perkins estimated the off-campus residence housed around 150 to 200 animals. She also said there were two animals of each species — a male and a female. Because the student lived and housed the animals off-campus, MSU does not have jurisdiction over the incident. Sid Salter, director of University Relations, said the university is working with the local authorities to make sure the matter is resolved appropriately. “The Starkville police have asked for the help of some of our CVM (College of Veterinary Medicine) faculty to make sure that they were doing the appropriate things for the safety of the public and the animals,” Salter said. “Our CVM faculty is not in the position to take responsibility for moving the animals. They are
-Police found 50 - 75 snakes at an MSU’s student’s house.
assisting law enforcement.” There is no evidence of foul treatment of the animals. “They were very well taken care of,” Perkins said. “The cages were clean. The aquariums were clean. They had lots of food.” Perkins also said the animals do not pose a threat to the Starkville or MSU communities. Starkville police assisted animal control while responding to the initial noise complaint. They also contacted the Wildlife and Fisheries’ state and federal bureaus. “We pretty much turned it over to them, and they haven’t done really anything with it,” Perkins said. “I’m assuming they aren’t going to press any charges.” Officials did ask the student to relocate the animals due to their potential risk to the area. The student has moved the animals that lived outside, the ones who caused the noise complaint, to different facilities around the state.
-One species was blue. -Rare frogs, lizards and birds were also found. - Total animals valued at $100,000. -Police were unable to seize the animals. -Male and female of each species were present.
-Police found two African cats.
SEE JUNGLE, 2
READER’S GUIDE BAD DAWGS OPINION CONTACT INFO BULLETIN BOARD
2 3 3 4
CROSSWORD CLASSIFIEDS LIFE SPORTS
4 4 5 6
POLICY
ANY PERSON MAY PICK UP A SINGLE COPY OF THE REFLECTOR FOR FREE. ADDITIONAL COPIES MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE MEYER STUDENT MEDIA CENTER FOR 25 CENTS PER COPY.
ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR
FRIDAY
90 63
SATURDAY
90 66
SUNDAY
93 66
MONDAY
93 64
2 | FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
BAD D WGS
Thursday, Aug. 29
• 12:43 p.m. A student reported his clicking device used for student attendance was missing and last seen in Allen Hall. • 7:26 p.m. A student was arrested in Starkville for improper equipment.
Tuesday, Sept. 3 • 9:10 a.m. An employee reported inventory disposed of incorrectly in the geosciences department. • 3:02 p.m. A student reported his vehicle was hit while parked in the Sigma Chi parking lot. • 3:55 p.m. A student reported her football tickets were stolen while in Lloyd Rick’s. • 4:15 p.m. A student reported a suspicious note left on her vehicle parked in Magnolia Hall parking lot. • 9:46 p.m. Student referrals were issued for the smell of marijuana in Moseley Hall. • 10:04 p.m. A student reported receiving threatening text messages from an unknown person.
Wednesday, Sept. 4 • 12:12 a.m. A student was arrested for minor in possession of alcohol in Hathorn Hall.
Citations:
• 3 citations were issued for speeding.
THE REFLECTOR
NEWS
TOGHIANI “She definitely expected a lot of us, but she pushed us. She was really engaging in and out of the classroom. When I took her class junior year, I was having a hard time with the class, and she was always willing to meet with us after class and talk about our lives and make sure everything was going well,” Carubba said. “She was really good about making sure we understood what was going on in the classroom and the bigger picture of why we were at school.” Toghiani’s visitation will be
CHEATERS
Plagiarism constituted 54 percent of 2012-2013 cases reported, mainly because students did not follow rules of correctly attributing sources or paraphrasing. In a demanding upper-level political science class, Trey Burke, alumnus, participated in a group project. All four members turned in their side of the work, and all seemed well, until the night before the assignment was due. One group member copied and pasted information straight from the CIA World Fact Book, compromising the group’s efforts. The next morning, Burke and two other members reported the plagiarism. “He said we were responsi-
continued from 1 Friday from 4-7 p.m. at the Welch Funeral Home, as well as Saturday from 9-10 a.m. followed by a 10 a.m. service at First United Methodist Church in Starkville. Donations to create a scholarship fund in Toghiani’s name for the Dave C. Swalm School of Chemical Engineering can be sent to the MSU Foundation via check with “in memory of Dr. Rebecca Toghiani” on the memo line, or contributions may be made online at msufoundation.com.
JUNGLE “He (the student) has complied, and he has done everything he’s been asked to do,” Perkins said. Salter also said if this incident had happened on campus, it would have resulted in many violations of university policy. “Students are not allowed to house a menagerie of animals of this size and scope,” Salter said. “Of course, Housing and Residence Life enforces those rules day-end-day-out. But I
continued from 1 guess if there is anything our students could learn, on-campus that is un-acceptable behavior and behavior that would carry consequences.” Perkins said an incident similar to this has not occurred on or off campus before. “I’ve been doing this for nine years, and I’ve never seen anything like this,” Perkins said. “I really felt like I was in a tropical jungle. It was really neat.”
continued from 1 them that at least they leave the process with a commitment to not do that again,” he said. Orr said cheating harms students because they do not receive the skill set that a degree implies. “(Cheating) also harms your peers because the course instructor can’t evaluate the work if you’re doing it in a way that’s dishonest. Your peers may not have a higher grade than you,” he said. In Kibler’s research, he found sociological literature that linked cheating in college, or being between the age of 18 and 24, to being dishonest in one’s profession. A study looked at physicians who developed patterns of dishonesty earlier in life. Because of these patterns, Kibler said some physicians cut corners. “That’s a scary thought when you start thinking about the implications of a physician cutting some corner in terms of making more money or saving more time,” he said. Students can educate themselves on the Student Honor Code by reading the Student Honor Code newsletter online or meeting with associates in the Student Honor Code office on the second floor of the YMCA building. By recognizing the importance of acComputer Diagnostics ademic integrity, Orr said the Tune-Ups • Brakes • Starters honor code helps students build ethos of making the Alternators • Electrical • Heating right decision. Air Conditioning • Axels • Suspension • Timing Belts “When I look at society, at All types of auto repair - foreign and domestic the scandals and the cheating Danny’s Automotive & Engine Repair that is occurring, I think that ASE Certified Automotive Technician society is looking for men Specializing in Engine Rebuilds & Replacements and women of integrity and Engine Replacements, New and Used Engines Rebuilt Motors, honesty. The honor code inExhaust Repairs Customs, Dual Exhaust and Mufflers Installed stills honesty in students,” he said. 405 East MLK Drive Work (662) 338-1005
ble for the information, but we the assignment or an XF on a didn’t have it and still got A’s so I transcript for violation of the suppose he changed his mind,” honor code. Burke said. Orr said an XF shows poTo avoid plagiarism, Orr tential employers or graduate urged students schools that a not to procrastistudent failed nate and to atthe course due (Cheating) tend sessions at academic also harms to the MSU Writmisconduct. To your peers ing Center. remove the X, because the students have MSU’s Student Honor course instructor to attend a twoCode hand- can’t evaluate the hour seminar book classifies called the Acacheating, at 37 work if you’re doing demic Integrity percent of cas- it in a way that’s Intervention es reported, as dishonest. Your Program and “intentionally take a 16-hour peers may not have online using or atethics tempting to use a higher grade than course provided unauthorized you.” by the Universimaterials, infor- -James Orr, ty of Maryland. mation, notes, “If you do director of the study aids or (the seminar and other devices Student Honor Code ethics course), or materials in Office you can get the any academic X removed from exercise.” Orr your transcript, gave an exambut the F is alple during his presentation of ways there,” Orr said. a student violating the honor While some students become code because he borrowed past angry at the honor code system, tests from an upperclassman to Kibler said the majority praise study. the intervention program. Students can receive dis“They don’t necessarily come missal from the university, a back and thank us, but it was lower course grade, a zero on a significant enough lesson for
Starkville, MS 39759
Cell (662) 312-6714
twitter@LBBShop
www.PAPAJOHNS.COM
Your Late Night Leader
Try a new Hispanic cuisine from South America! At Gordo’s Peruvian Restaurant (Beside University Motel) 108 MLK Dr. West Starkville, MS 39759 662-338-1788 www.mygordosrestaurant.com $1 domestic beers from 5:00pm to 7:00pm everyday! Free Tea At Lunch Everyday!
Cuttin’ it old school. 100 N Lafayette St 648-9271
Open 7–6 daily*
*Close *Close 12 12 pm pm Wed Wed && Sat Sat
Backstage Music
Store Hours: Sunday-Wednesday: 10am-1am Thursday-Saturday: 10am-3am
Guitars, Cool Gear, & Everything else you need. Phone: (662)-323-3824
OPINION
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
OPINION EDITOR: ALIE DALEE | opinion@reflector.msstate.edu ONE LITTLE SPARK
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 | 3
EXPRESS YOUR VOICE AT REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
Is our celebrity-crazed culture making us all big ‘phonies’?
I
remember when I heard J.D. Salinger had who argues Salinger would have an intense hate died. I was a senior in high school, idealistic, for all of it. on my way out and identifying with Holden Of course, authors have been published postCaulfield, Salinger’s most noted creation. humously before. Indeed, that’s how we get At the time, it seemed sad to me that Salinger, much of the literature we have from women who made headlines about his reclusive lifestyle and minorities. But seeing as how Salinger was for some 50 years by then, had died without pub- both extremely white (much like his character lishing anything for almost as long. I mourned Holden) and extremely famous, I don’t think the opportunity to read more from the prolific the “the publishing industry ignored them while author behind “The Catcher in the Rye” and they were alive” holds for this instance. Further“Franny and Zooey.” Said mourning was as fool- more, there’s something about the way media ish as some of my other high school decisions, I has changed since much of that, and the intrigue suppose. that has followed Salinger for Now, three years much of his life — that makes after his death, it has this seem much different than This sense of been announced that the any previous occurrences, entitlement only five new books by and somewhat exploitative to becomes stronger Salinger will be reboot. I shudder to think what leased beginning in when a celebrity dies the man who locked himself 2015, not to mention and can no longer speak for his away to avoid curious fans the tell-all biography and reporters alike would say and accompanying or her own right to privacy.” if he knew his intervening documentary about years received such publicity. his life to be released But why do I even care, this month. And though my freshman self would anyway? Salinger was, by all accounts, not a very have jumped for joy, I can’t help but wonder how nice man, and maybe his heirs deserve whatevthe infamous recluse himself would feel about his er profits they can get from his crazy late years. life and works being published now that he isn’t They’re certainly not bothering him now, wheraround to withhold permission. I have to agree ever he is. I guess it’s not just the question of with Jen Chaney, of “The Washington Post,” Salinger himself that gives me second thoughts
about this whole thing. It’s the overall attitude surrounding it, the one that says we deserve to know all about Salinger’s life, that we’re owed the works he churned out while he was shut away from all of us. And why? Did Salinger give himself up to us when he wrote a great American novel? It seems an awful lot like the way we feel entitled to the latest paparazzi photos of Kim and Kanye or Brangelina. As if becoming famous means sacrificing any and all personal privacy, simply because these people were gracious enough to share a part of themselves with us through their talent. This sense of entitlement only becomes stronger when a celebrity dies and can no longer speak for his or her own right to privacy. All summer, entertainment news plastered pictures of Cory Monteith and his friends and family all over our news media after his tragic death. It seemed like they told us that we were allowed to be a part of their grieving because some of us watched a small part of Monteith’s life onscreen as he portrayed Finn Hudson. Here at MSU, we have Ulysses S. Grant’s presidential library as well as an extensive exhibit on John Grisham. At least these people gave up the information to us of their own volition, if only by agreeing to take on the duties of the presidency. It seems to me this new need to know ev-
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Failure often gives green light for success to follow
T
he new fall 2013 semes- planted in their mind since ter has begun for schools before they could remember. and colleges worldwide. In most cases, college is known Particularly at Mississippi State to be the key to success. AnyUniversity, where fans dust off one could say college has high their cowbells and everyone standards. Everything seems to catches up with their friends. rest on how good of a student The undeniable fact is that, for someone is or how one person most people in Starkville, MSU can make themselves stand is the place to be. With all of out in the midst of a thousand the wonderful social events and more just like them. It is underextracurricular activities, one’s standable how these ideas can life can be filled with friends be terrifying, especially when and obligations in less than a so-called “failure” is frowned day without stepping foot into upon. In this kind of lifestyle, a classroom. But education and it’s very easy for students to get success is what college is all discouraged if they don’t start succeeding right off the bat. about. It is now the third week of the And, especially for fairly new semester, about the time both students, it’s easy to feel a sense students and faculty start to feel of fear and convince themselves the workload of the semester that packing up and starting kicking in. Students stress to over is the best option. Winston Churchill once said, get that last minute paper in, and faculty tends to their other “Success is not final, failure is duties when they aren’t working not fatal: it is the courage to with students. In another few continue that counts.” People weeks, some students might be- throughout history faced the gin to wonder if the major they same exact problems. Even chose is right for them after all. though they might not have Others may be discouraged be- faced the same kind of obstacles cause they can’t quite get that A college students typically do, they on the Success almost never experitest, enced a n d comes right away, some but if we continue, it’s enough t o might worth it in the end. ” voice b e their wondering what’s keeping them opinions on the matter to infrom beating their friends on spire younger generations. But today’s society has heard “words that Xbox 360 game. In today’s society, there’s no of wisdom” so overused to the doubt we like to live life in the point that it is easy to dismiss fast lane. Most students are in them. Sometimes it helps to college because the idea was look at an interesting quote
from a perspective that applies directly to the lives of each individual. Looking at the quote from this perspective, it’s a lot easier to understand where Churchill was coming from when he talked about “the courage to continue.” We hear the key to success is to keep trying all the time, but have we ever considered that it is sometimes necessary to fail before we can succeed? For example, maybe a student has to fail to have a passion for their current major in order to make the decision to change to something they do have a passion for. It’s that simple. The idea isn’t new by any means, but most people tend to downplay failure in general. The suggestion that “failure is not fatal” means, even if it seems like it at the time, failing at something is not the end of the world. It’s more of a learning experience. Churchill’s quote clearly begins with the last stage of success, and it is easy to see why. People in general see success as a promise. We are so focused on success that once we have it, we stop. Before long, we take it for granted because we think it will be there forever. Society often misleads others into thinking that if they work for success, it’s theirs. They earned it, they keep it. The idea that success is not permanent is, therefore, more of a blow than an inspiration. But this idea is something that members of society, particularly upperclassmen and the working
BROOKLYN TUCKER Brooklyn Tucker is a junior majoring in kinesiology. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector.msstate. edu.
population, have to watch out. Regardless of the way a quote is formed, it all winds down to the same idea. As long as we keep trying, we always have a chance at success. Last spring, MSU had the honor of welcoming former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, to campus. During her speech, she mentioned that she started out as a piano major in college, but realized in her later years that it wasn’t the most practical road for her. “Remember, at your age, I was a failed piano major,” she said. She was later inspired by politics and decided to give it a try. She had no idea that years from then, she would sit with President Bush at the White House. Many students’ eyes narrowed in thought when she closed with this honest quote. Rice still gives inspirational speeches across the U.S., but this quote is one that students who attended the speech are most likely to recall. And for some, it could very well be one that students might not want to forget. Success almost never comes right away, but if we continue, it’s worth it in the end. So whether it means switching majors or just a few more minutes of practice time each day, go ahead. It’s all in the process.
WHITNEY KNIGHT Whitney Knight is a senior majoring in English education. She can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
ery moment of a celebrity’s life might not be so new after all. Museums of one sort or another have been around for almost as long as people have. We’ve always been fascinated by those who gain notoriety among us. The question, though, comes in when the amount of information we want doesn’t align with the amount they want to give. That’s why the new Salinger developments bring up ethical questions we’re very familiar with. That said, I still plan to read those new novellas when they come out in two years’ time.
LIVING BY MY WITS
Fast food: enough is enough
I
n a rare moment of recreational television time, a new commercial caught my attention. I had to suppress a laugh as Burger King’s “French Fry Burger” made its debut on the screen in front of me. Once again, fast food companies came up with creative ways to produce low-priced items that are weighted with sodium and fat. As exhibited by the Doritos Locos Taco, innovations in the fast food world are nothing new. However, the French Fry Burger can hardly qualify as an innovation. The combination of salt-laden fries and a mediocre burger do not meet the alchemic standards food modernization requires. For example, making a pretzel into a bun adds texture and flavor to the overall burger or hot dog. Turning a taco shell into a nacho cheese-dusted chip intensifies and complements the filling of the taco. Adding deep-fried potatoes to a bun is nothing more than an overdose of carbs and calories. As more people realize the obesity epidemic in the United States, fast food companies should react with healthier options. While some companies have added wraps and salads to their menus for a “healthier” option, the addition isn’t always what it seems. If you find yourself ordering a salad under the Golden Arches, you would be better off splurging for the double cheeseburger. At 450 calories, the Premium Southwest Salad with Crispy Chicken provides you with 21 grams of fat. That’s at least half of the suggested daily total fat intake for anyone. The double
CLAIRE WILSON Claire Wilson is a junior majoring in communication. She can be contacted at opinion@reflector. msstate.edu.
cheeseburger rings in at 440 calories. The only guaranteed way to maintain a healthy body is to refrain from eating junk food under any circumstances — but that’s unrealistic. I’ve tried time and time again to cut fast food out of my diet completely. However, as a college student with a weakness for French fries, I find myself in the Wendy’s drive-thru at least once a week. In these situations, I am forced to remind myself that moderation is key. Mississippi just recently lost its title of “Most Obese State” to Louisiana. Personally, I’d like to see Mississippi continue to drop on the list. There is no need to super-size the meal, and that slathering of mayonnaise only adds more calories and fat to the meal. It doesn’t hurt to add a workout goal to that drive-thru grub either. Southern doesn’t have to mean sizable.
WISDOM FROM A FOOL
Dubstep proves it has staying power in American culture Managing Editor
Editor in Chief
News Editor
Kristen Spink
Kaitlyn Byrne
Anna Wolfe
Multimedia Editor
Life Editor
Opinion Editor
Zack Orsborn
Daniel Hart
Alie Dalee
Sports Editor John Galatas
Photography Editor Kaitlin Mullins
Copy Editor Emma Crawford
CONTACT INFORMATION
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Editor in Chief/Kaitlyn Byrne
Letters to the editor should be sent to the Meyer Student Media Center or mailed to The Reflector, PO Box 5407, Mississippi State, MS. Letters may also be emailed to editor@reflector.msstate.edu. Letters must include name and telephone number for verification purposes. The editor reserves the right to edit or refuse to publish a letter.
325-7905 editor@reflector.msstate.edu Managing Editor/Kristen Spink 325-8991 managing@reflector.msstate.edu News Editor/Anna Wolfe 325-8819 news@reflector.msstate.edu Opinion Editor/Alie Dalee opinion@reflector.msstate.edu Sports Editor/John Galatas 325-5118 reflectorsports@gmail.com Life Editor/Daniel Hart 325-8883 life@reflector.msstate.edu Photography Editor/Kaitlin Mullins 325-1584 photo@reflector.msstate.edu Multimedia Editor/Zack Orsborn multimedia_editor@reflector.msstate.edu Advertising Sales/Julia Pendley 325-7907 advertise@reflector.msstate.edu
CORRECTIONS
EDITORIAL POLICY The Reflector is the official student newspaper of Mississippi State University. Content is determined solely by the student editorial staff. The contents of The Reflector have not been approved by Mississippi State University.
The Reflector staff strives to maintain the integrity of this paper through accurate and honest reporting. If we publish an error we will correct it. To report an error, call 325-7905.
A
piano begins playing softly a harmonious tune that flows like water traveling downstream. The sounds of the keys dancing create a trance-like environment. There are suddenly voices in the background sounding like soldiers marching to battle. Suddenly all the sounds come to a halt as the voice of Gerard Butler roars the line, “THIS IS SPARTA!” Immediately the bass drops and my head explodes. Due to an overload of awesomeness, harmonious timing and deadly wub-wub I become engulfed in the melody. Yes, that was the introduction to a dubstep song, and I see it possibly becoming as legitimate of a music genre as rock. Hear me out on this one, bass-heads. Admittedly I used to hate the genre as it seemed to be music only people at raves would appreciate. While I admit that mainstream artists such as Skrillex are good, I defy the contrary by saying I do not believe they are the best. Sure I play songs such as “Scary Monsters & Nice Sprites” semi-regularly but I do not feel as much of an emotional connection, as they seem to lack the soul
TOP 5
DANCE/ELECTRONIC ALBUMS
found in my all-time favorites. The amount of passion in an artist’s work is one thing that makes it timeless, and while, I am not criticizing any performers ability or commitment for a time I could not say I found anything I would consider being special. It would not be until I did a little digging that I discovered the special ingredient most of the dubstep I had listened to lacked. But once I did I began to take the genre much more seriously. When I unearthed less commercialized artists such as KDrew, Instrumental Core and Louis Richner I found the soul and passion that was seemingly lacking in the more popular songs. I get tired of having to sell out to the masses and “be told” what music I should listen to. By playing less industrialized songs by underground artists I found a sense of passion and beauty in their work because it made me react in a way unlike most mainstream dubstep. These songs made me have a definite emotional connection to what I heard. Emotion is what makes a song into a piece of art. By discovering dubstep provides more than
a bunch of random electronic beats I will say that to me the genre is becoming more artistic and thought provoking. It is the reason why decades later we are still listening to musicians such as The Beatles and Beethoven because their music makes us think and feel much like the songs composed by some of the indie dubstep artists I mentioned. The ability for a genre to endure through time and still be listened to generations later is what marks it legitimate, because it passes the test of time. While some of you may be thinking that dubstep is going to be a genre that will only be popular for this decade, I beg to differ. Dubstep will not go the way of genres such as disco or 90s pop. Many of the songs that are all the rage during a decade really are only specific to that time. By the time our children listen to Carly Rae Jepsen’s “Call Me Maybe,” phones will be obsolete, and we will be able to communicate telepathically with the almighty power of the Internet. Lyrics about material problems limit these songs to being relevant for only a few years. In contrast to this a
5 “Ice On the Dune” 4 “Lindsey Stirling” 3 Empire Of The Sun
Zack Orsborn/The Reflector
Lindsey Stirling
“Clarity” Zedd
2
T.J. Legler T.J. Legler is a senior majoring in cultural anthropology. He can be contacted at opinion@ reflector.msstate.edu.
piece such as KDrew’s song “Send Me Your Love” describing the struggles of daily life and finding happiness could still be relevant in the future, as finding pleasure in life is a constant human goal. Whether your personal taste is more for a pure electronic dubstep song or one that captures the feeling of being a Spartan I believe the genre is here to stay for the long haul. As long as people can find emotional attachments to dubstep in relation to their dreams and aspirations, I believe the genre will transcend the 2010s and survive well into the future.
“18 Months” Calvin Harris
1
“Random Access Memories” Daft Punk
THE REFLECTOR
4 | FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
AN IN-CLASS DISTRACTION ...
9-6-13
BULLETIN BOARD 325-203-1169
CLASSIFIEDS POLICY
The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; the deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. Classifieds are $5 per issue. Student and staff ads are $3 per issue, pre-paid. Lost and found: found items can be listed for free; lost items are listed for standard ad cost. HELP WANTED
Old Waverly Golf Club in West Point, Miss., is looking to hire servers and bartenders who are hard-working, dedicated and available nights and weekends. If you are interested, please send resume to bre@ oldwaverly.com. FOR SALE
Home for sale. Three bedroom, two bathroom. 1,650 square feet. Three miles from campus. Country atmosphere. Fireplace, wood floors, wraparound porch, one acre. $84,900 negotiable price. Call
CLUB INFO
The deadline for Tuesday’s paper is 3 p.m. Thursday; deadline for Friday’s paper is 3 p.m. Tuesday. MSU student organizations may place free announcements in Club Info. Information may be submitted by email to club_info@reflector.msstate. edu with the subject heading “CLUB INFO,” or a form may be completed at The Reflector office in the Student Media Center. A contact name, phone number and requested run dates must be included for club info to appear in The Reflector. All submissions are subject to exemption according to space availability. STUDENTS FOR A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS
Interested in a greener future? Come to SSC every Thursday
at 6 p.m. in McCool 111. Opt-in for the Green fund. WESLEY FOUNDATION
Insight Bible study and worship Tuesdays at 8 p.m. at 286 East Lee Blvd. next to Campus Book Mart. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook at MSStateWesley. MANIFESTING GLORY PRAISE TEAM
We are looking for talented singers and musicians to be a part of our campus ministry. If interested, please call 662-648-8128. DAWGS FOR DOGS
Interested in joining a new student organization that helps dogs in need? Please join us at the Dawgs for Dogs interest meeting Sept. 10 at 5:30 p.m. at the flag pole on the Drill Field and Sept. 18 at 6:30 p.m. on the Drill Field.
Solutions for 9-3-13
Follow the SPORTS SECTION on Twitter
@SPORTSREFLECTOR
Sponsored by:
CORNERSTONE
Baptist Church
When: Thursdays 7-8 PM Where: McCool Hall Rm 112 Starting a New Series: Core Christianity
check us out ... WEB
cornerstonestarkville.com/thrive TWITTER
twitter.com/MSUThrive FACEBOOK
facebook.com/MSUThrive To instantly learn more about Thrive Student Ministries, scan the image using your Smart-phone’s barcode app.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 | 5
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
LIFE EDITOR: DANIEL HART | life@reflector.msstate.edu
LIFE & ENTERTAINMENT
TIGHTLY WOVEN
Have expensive weaves become integrated into Starkville’s current cultural fabric? my hair is short, and I like length,” Rillen said. “But I also like it because it makes you look prettier and gives you confidence. I don’t know what it is about it, but you become addicted to it.” Additional length is
BY ERIC IRBY Staff Writer
Weaves, which used to be a minor trend, have recently become something of a subculture among African-Americans, dominating the African-American beauty market. Weaves seem to be the new status symbol and an easy way to compete with the next girl. Tylena Byas, model, rapper and junior apparels, textiles and merchandising major, said she feels, besides the fact that wearing a weave helps with her modeling, a weave can aid a woman’s self esteem. “I think weave is more relevant in today’s society because it helps women feel more confident. No, I’m not saying you can’t be confident in your own natural hair,” Byas said. “I just feel to each his own. I prefer weave because I model, and it gives me easy, accessible styles that my natural hair wouldn’t be able to do.” In the past, most African-American women would not even hint that some of their hair included a weave, but recently, women wear a weave as a sign of pride — almost something like a crown. Jasmine Rillen, model and senior fashion merchandising major, said wearing weaves can allow one to feel more beautiful but that the source of additional beauty can also become a habit. “I wear weave because
is a tedious and uncomfortable procedure. “It actually really doesn’t feel all that good, and it takes an extremely long time,” Love said. “Once, it took six hours for her to install my hair.” The “silky crack,” as
ERIC IRBY | THE REFLECTOR
Long, flowing weaves, though expensive, have become popular.
one of the most common reasons women wear weaves. Unlike extensions, which can be clipped in or applied with an adhesive to the hair, the majority of weaves are sewn into braids on a woman’s scalp. Installing a weave can be a very long and daunting process that sometimes takes more than four hours, but, as the old saying goes, “pain is beauty.” Miyatah Love, senior accounting major, said getting a weave put in
Open year round!
some call it, comes in a variety of shades and textures. Some popular textures of weave include Brazilian, Malaysian, Indian and Peruvian. “Remi” is the umbrella term that encompasses varieties of “good quality” hair. The term “Remi” indicates the weaves are constructed of virgin human hair and, unlike synthetic hair, its cuticles aren not stripped. “Remi” is a more expensive type of weave due to its authentic material.
As opposed to synthetic hair, which can cost anywhere from $60 to $85, Remi can range anywhere from $100 to $500 a pack. These figures do not include the cost of weave installation, which ranges anywhere from $80 to $120 dollars, depending on the type of product and style. Due to television shows like “Basketball Wives,” “America’s Next Top Model” and “Bad Girls Club,” and musicians like Beyoncé Knowles, women flock to their nearest hair store or website to purchase the look these female figures wear. Weaves give some women a sense of power and sex appeal that becomes accessible with a single purchase. Korbin Houston, sophomore whose major is undeclared, said she thinks women wear weaves to emulate pop culture stars and considers it just another cosmetic process. “I believe women want to achieve a certain look and, like anything, like makeup or nails, it does help amp our personalities and gives us that ‘oomph’ that famous people have,” Houston said. “In all honesty, my natural hair is actually long, but the only reason I have weave is because I’m lazwy. I didn’t want to fool with my hair and there’s nothing wrong with more. Unlike a lot of things in life, weave is fabulous, and you can never have too much hair.”
FALL INTO COLOR
A guide to transitioning into autumn fashion CONTRIBUTING WRITER
ADAM SULLIVAN Adam Sullivan is a junior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at life@reflector. msstate.edu.
Now that Labor Day has passed and the first home football game is here, it is time to look ahead to fall. This fall season is all about pops of color. Do not let yourself become bogged down in a pallet of dingy browns and dreary greys and blacks. By using color, you can shock life back into your fall wardrobe. Let me begin by addressing one issue that seems to plague fall and winter wardrobes. The rule “no white after Labor Day” is dead. No longer are we shackled by the bonds of this rule. Throw it out, and do not let anyone tell you otherwise. White makes a wonderful cooler-month color and should be a part of your fall wardrobe. A great way to add color to your outfit is with socks. Go out and get yourself some brightly colored socks. Go big. Socks that have patterns, stripes or polka dots are always in fashion. However, leave the novelty printed socks on the shelves. Do not be the person under the impression that wearing socks with little cats all over them is a good idea. It is not and never will be. Because socks are not always visible and they are almost never fully exposed, you can wear a very bold color without overwhelming the outfit. Play around to find sock colors that will really amp up your clothing. If you are unsure, try pairing blue socks with some brown corduroys. Blue and brown is a foolproof color combination. Other surefire combinations include green and grey, yellow and blue or blue and orange. As the weather cools, scarves should
become a staple of your outerwear wardrobe. They provide a wonderful opportunity to add a lot of color. They work much in the same way socks do. Scarves can be very bold and colorful, but they do not overpower your outfit. If you are unsure about venturing into the scarved world, a good starting point is to pick yourself up an MSU scarf. I have one that has thick maroon and white stripes. It is a fairly bold scarf but is always well-received on campus. This is a great first scarf because it allows you to display school pride, while also building your confidence. This fall, be bold, show off some color. Do not shy away from white, either. Following these few tips will help you be the best-dressed person in line to order your pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks.
tinyurl.com/SPDUniversity
@SPDUniversity
KAITLIN MULLINS | THE REFLECTOR
The Eye & Laser Center of Starkville offers a wide selection of name brands of eyewear to our patients. Our office is conveniently located at the corner of Walker Way and Hospital Road. BONGO Costa Del Mar ELLE GUESS Lacoste Liz Claiborne Maui Jim Nautica Nicole Miller Oakley Ray-Ban Rx
Eye&Laser Center
O F S TA R K V I L L E
Costume PARTY COSTUMES • VINTAGE • THEATRICAL
100 Russell Street Suite 9 662.323.9771
Jim Brown, MD, FACS • Al Lucas, OD Surgery
Eye & Disease Care
Optical Center
www.eyeandlaser.net 662.320.6555 • 100 Walker Way • Starkville, MS 39759
SPORTS
6 | FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
SPORTS EDITOR: JOHN GALATAS | reflectorsports@gmail.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER
THE REFLECTOR
STAT OF THE DAY:
SATURDAY AFTERNOON’S GAME AGAINST ALCORN STATE MARKS THE 99TH SEASON OF FOOTBALL AT SCOTT FIELD, WHERE MSU IS 232-131-13 ALL-TIME.
Mullen, Bulldogs seek to correct miscues against Alcorn This was not supposed to dog coaching staff that doomed happen. Things would be differ- them to a disappointing 1-5 finent this time around. The utter ish over the last six games last disaster that was the second half season. Dan Mullen and staff had an of Mississippi State University’s 2012 football season was going entire off-season to correct those to remain firmly in the rearview mistakes and move forward, yet mirror. After all, a new season that was the best game plan they means a new beginning, an op- could come up with? I don’t buy portunity to start with a clean it. Give OSU some credit — slate. It was a time to erase any doubts Bulldog fans might have they played a much better sechad going into the 2013 cam- ond half, but from a Bulldog perspective, paign, but after four quarters at Dan Mullen there is absolutely no reaReliant Stadium and staff son to only put last Saturday, they had an three points were left with on the board more questions entire offseason all game long than answers. to correct those against a team There were exactly plenty of posi- mistakes and move not known for its tives early on in forward yet that the contest with was the best game defensive prowess. Oklahoma State plan they could Given the University, startcircumstances, ing with a solid come up with? I most (includopening drive don’t buy it.” ing myself ) that resulted in probably exa made field goal by Devon Bell to give MSU a pected a shootout, yet the final 3-0 lead. A young and relatively scoreline read 21-3. MSU didn’t inexperienced defense held its even threaten to hold up its own and consistently frustrat- end of the bargain, going just ed a Cowboy offense that aver- 2-16 on third down and play aged over 45 points per game calling that caused me to have in 2012, good for third in the all-too-familiar flashbacks to NCAA. But that is where the the mid-2000s under Sylvester positives would end, as MSU Croom. Les Koenning repeatedly trailed 7-3 at halftime and never called plays so vanilla and prerecovered. It’s one thing to lose — OSU dictable that Houston Nutt was is a good team with a quality probably beaming with pride. It program that nearly made it to is almost as if MSU didn’t have the national title game in the an experienced senior at quar2011-2012 season — but what terback named Tyler Russell we saw on Saturday were the more than capable of making same silly mistakes and general good things happen — well, lack of adjustments by the Bull- until he suffered a concussion,
JOSH COOKE Josh Cooke is a senior majoring in communication. He can be contacted at reflectorsports@ gmail.com.
which further launched fans into a state of depression and panic. Despite all the disappointment and failure to meet expectations in week one, MSU returns to Davis-Wade Stadium for their home opener to take on Alcorn State University, which marks the second all time meeting between the in-state teams. MSU won the previous matchup 49-16 in 2010, but will face a team high in confidence after the Braves won their season opener 63-12 over Edward Waters. The opportunity to play an FCS opponent could not come at a better time for the Bulldogs who are in flux, with sophomore Dak Prescott making his first career start under center to replace a concussed Tyler Russell. It is a much more ideal situation than say, an SEC road game, although that scenario could be in play as early as next weekend if Russell is not cleared to return to action. Regardless of what transpired in Houston last weekend, returning home offers MSU a great opportunity to build confidence and get into the ‘W’ column for the first time this season. There will be plenty of new faces getting a shot, given the amount of injuries already suffered are rather high, but the time is now for the Dogs to finally make adjustments and play up to what is expected of them. At this point, they really have no choice.
WELCOME TO STARKVILLE COMMUNITY CHURCH! • Casual Dress • Contemporary Worship • Committed to Following Christ
COURTESY PHOTO | MSU MEDIA RELATIONS
MSU defensive player Taveze Calhoun (23) returns a blocked field goal. Calhoun will make his second consecutive start this weekend.
Dogs ready for home opener BY JOHN GALATAS Sports Editor
Although the Mississippi State University Bulldogs started their first season under Dan Mullen with a loss, the Bulldogs will now try to avoid a 0-2 start — something MSU has not done since 2006. In fact, MSU has only started 0-2 three times in the last 30 years, and with the Alcorn State Braves coming to Davis Wade Stadium Saturday, MSU should avoid making it a fourth time. MSU suffered multiple injuries and setbacks in last weekend’s 21-3 loss to Oklahoma State, but coaches feel confident in younger players filling the vacant positions. Sophomore quarterback Dak Prescott is the biggest replacement this week as he steps in for an injured Tyler Russell. Prescott, who entered last week’s game after Russell suffered a concussion in the third quarter, threw for 89 yards in 17 passing attempts while gaining 18 yards rushing. Head coach Dan Mullen said once Russell left the game, he knew Prescott’s presence on the field would not hinder the
team for the rest of the game. “I don’t think there was a panic in any of the coaches or players on the field saying, ‘What are we going to do now?’” Mullen said. “That, to me, just shows a lot of who Dak is and how he has prepared himself and how he has performed in training camp. He has a lot of trust in his teammates.” Defensively, MSU safety Jay Hughes suffered a torn achilles and will undergo season-ending surgery. Defensive coordinator Geoff Collins said defensive secondary players like Dee Arrington, Kendrick Market and Taveze Calhoun had to step in quickly but picked up the schemes last weekend. “They played really well,” he said. “A couple of times they had to do some of the adjustments to get things fixed, but they played well. The future is bright for some of those young guys.” Calhoun started at cornerback and recorded six tackles in last weekend’s game. He also displayed flashes of skill on special teams as he returned a blocked field goal just short of
University Towers Luxious Living in The Cotton District
2 Bedroom/ 2 Bath Units Available
Ask about our
1004 Lynn Lane (Extended off Industrial Park Blvd.) Phone: 324-6009
Move In Special! Phone: (662) 323-2430 610 University Dr. Web page: starkvilleapts.com Starkville, MS
the end zone before halftime against OSU. Collins said Alcorn will present a physical game, but his team is ready to get the first win of the season. “(Alcorn) has some big offensive linemen that are pretty powerful,” Collins said. “Any time you get to line up in our stadium and play, you have to be excited. The guys have a bad taste in their mouths they want to get out.” Linebacker Matt Wells said he thought the defense played well by holding a high-powered offense to 21 points, but Wells said there is still plenty of room for improvement. “I think we played with relentless effort. We ran to the ball. We had more missed tackles than we wanted, but we can fix that at practice,” he said. “We have to fit against the runs correctly.” MSU will face an Alcorn State team that is fresh off a 6312 win over Edward Waters. The Braves totaled 464 yards in the win, and Mullen said despite being a lower-tier opponent, an in-state game always poses a threat to the Dogs. “They have the guts and confidence and played some really good defense (last week),” he said. “They always are going to have great athletes. We played them here a couple of years ago, and they battled us in a real tough deal with a lot of great athletes on the field and made a bunch of plays.” Sophomore quarterback John Gibbs, who threw for 184 yards and rushed for 59, leads the Braves’ offense. Running back Arnold Walker rushed for 75 yards and scored a career-high three rushing touchdowns in last week’s win. MSU will kick off against ASU at 2:30 p.m. Saturday and will be televised regionally on CSS.
324-2630
NEEDS: If you would like to lead worship, call us! OR Play Guitar OR Play Drums
Open year round!
Costume PARTY
COSTUMES • VINTAGE • THEATRICAL
100 Russell Street Suite 9 662.323.9771
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013 | 7
SPORTS
REFLECTOR-ONLINE.COM
Prescott earns first career start
Today in Bulldog
History
BY BLAKE MORGAN Contributing Writer
This Saturday against Alcorn State University, sophomore Dak Prescott will start his first game for the Mississippi State University Bulldogs. Prescott, a 6-foot-2inch 230-pound dual-threat quarterback will line up under center. Prescott was heavily recruited out of the Louisiana prep ranks, and ultimately chose the Bulldogs over LSU. At Haughton High school, Prescott led his team in an undefeated regular season and a trip to the 4A state quarterfinals. He completed 62 percent of his passes his senior season and passed for 2,860 yards and 39 touchdowns. He also ran for 951 yards and 17 touchdowns to claim the title of a dual-threat quarterback. In the same season, the Louisiana Sports Writers Association named Prescott to the All-Louisiana state team. To gain a better understanding of the MSU offense, Prescott was red-shirted his first year. Last season he played back up to Tyler Russell, who is sidelined with a concussion, and mostly saw time in short-yardage situations. He threw four touchdowns last season and ran for four more, as well. He is also only one of five freshmen to throw a touchdown against both LSU and Alabama in the past decade. Last weekend against OSU, Prescott played almost the entire second half due to Russell’s injury, but failed to get much offense rolling. He was 7-of-17 for 89 yards and an interception. Prescott is used to the leadership role. He has been running the same offense as Russell all summer and was already expected to play a bigger role in the offense. Now he gets his chance. “I’m excited. It’s an opportunity I’ve been waiting for,” he said. “It’s not exactly under the exact circumstances I wanted it to be, but it’s an opportunity and I’m going to make the most of it.” Russell said he has full
1997, Despite allowing a school-record 62 passing attempts, MSU knocked of Kentucky 35-27 in Starkville. ZACK ORSBORN | THE REFLECTOR
COACH’S CORNER
NFC teams aim to dominate NFL competition
T COURTESY PHOTO | MSU MEDIA RELATIONS
Quarterback Dak Prescott tosses a football during the season opener against Oklahoma State. Prescott will make his first career start this weekend against the Alcorn State Braves. confidence any time Prescott steps on the field. “Dak is the other quarterback, not the back-up,” he said. The coaching staff consistently said Prescott can run the offense just as well as Russell. On the difference between the two players’ leadership styles, head coach Dan Mullen said Prescott brings a different motivational element to the huddle. “Where Tyler has more of the business approach and get it done, Dak is more of a rahrah guy,” Mullen said. “Dak has had a big leadership role amongst our team already. When Dak goes into it, the guys see him as someone who has been in a leadership role all year.” Prescott has been known to be the more vocal and emotional leader of the two and can rally the team behind him. Prescott also brings another dimension to the team — he can tuck the ball and run at any moment or make something out of nothing, which can open the playbook for a more unpredictable offense.
Most of the time if two quarterbacks compete to play in games, there can be tension between the two; this is not the case for Russell and Prescott. Prescott said he sees Russell as a brother, and he knows Russell is behind him 100 percent. Gabe Jackson, All-American offensive left guard, said no matter who plays the position, he feels comfortable with both quarterbacks under center. “I’m confident in either one of them, Dak or Tyler,” Jackson said. “I know what they do in the summer. I know how hard they prepare and work. I don’t have any doubt in either of them. Either one of them can play.” Prescott has been waiting for this moment for his entire collegiate career, his first start. Against a lessthan-stellar opponent in the Alcorn State Braves this weekend, he has a recipe for success. This weekend, Dak will get the chance to show the fans what, exactly, the “other” quarterback can do.
ANYTHING PRINTABLE
Now Featuring
DawgWear Exclusively at University Screenprint
Variety of styles and color options
DawgWear
Extended Hours Game Weekend Friday 7:30 - 7 Saturday 8 - until Sunday 10 - 4
318 E Lee Blvd Next to the BSU
662-323-7660
Visit us!
campusbookmart.com/msu
his year the National East this season. Dez Bryant is Football Conference has primed to become one of the Super Bowl and playoff best receivers in the league this caliber teams. The toughest year, and under Monte Kiffin, division in the conference, and the Cowboys are switching to perhaps the league, this year a 4-3 defense and should be could be the NFC West. The a lot better. I do not trust the 49ers and the Seahawks will be Redskins secondary and the Githe top two teams in the NFC ants have been hit with injuries West, and the Rams and Car- at multiple positions. The NFC South could be as dinals will both be competitive teams in their own right. Ul- good as the West. The Atlanta timately, I expect the 49ers to Falcons will win this division, win this division. Seattle will but the race for number two and be right there with them. Both a potential wild card spot is goteams are Super Bowl contend- ing to be fierce. The Saints look ers, but the 49ers are the most to return to dominant form with complete team in the NFL with Sean Payton back as the coach, a great defense and a more ex- Cam Newton looks to take the next step and plosive offense. lift the PanThe NFC The AFC thers to new North will be East is heights and another tough the worst the Buccaneers conference with have addressed the Packers and division in the their biggest Bears leading the NFL, and the New weakness from way. You canEngland Patriots a year ago, not count out the Vikings with should win it pretty which was the secondary. Adrian Peterson easily, yet again.” The Amerrunning the ball. ican Football I expect the Bears to win the North this season Conference, on the other hand, over the Packers. Yes, the Pack- is not as strong this season but ers have the best quarterback in should be interesting to watch. the league, but the Bears have The AFC West is one of the an elite defense and an offense weakest divisions in the NFL. that should be better under new The Broncos are the best overall offensive-minded head coach team in the AFC and should win their division very easily. Marc Trestman. The AFC North is the toughThe NFC East does not have an elite team at the top like the est division in the conference. other three NFC divisions, but The Bengals, Steelers and Rawhat makes this division inter- vens all have legitimate chances esting is any of the four teams to win, and I am rolling with could finish first, last or any- the Steelers to get it done. I where in between. The Redskins know multiple publications are are the favorite after winning favoring the Bengals, but I do the division last year, but I not trust their offense or Andy think the Cowboys will take the Dalton. The Ravens do not have
FORREST BUCK Forrest Buck is a senior majoring in sport pedagogy. He can be contacted at reflectorsports@gmail.com.
enough to win the division after losing Boldin and the leadership of Ray Lewis. The AFC East is the worst division in the NFL, and the New England Patriots should win it pretty easily, yet again. The Dolphins made a lot of moves in free agency and the draft, but at best they will compete for a wild card spot. The AFC South will come down to the Texans and Colts, and the Texans should come out on top. I expect the Colts to take a bit of a step back after shocking the world and going 11-5 last season. The Texans are a Super Bowl contender with a good defense and great run game. I favor the 49ers to win the NFC and the Broncos to win the AFC. With the addition of Wes Welker, the Broncos could be the best offense in the NFL. The 49ers are loaded on both sides of the ball and do not have any glaring weaknesses. I expect these two teams to meet up in the Super Bowl and the 49ers to be the Super Bowl champions this season.
8 | FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2013
ADVERTISEMENT
THE REFLECTOR