Morning links: Cougar football takes the field

The first day of Washington State spring practice is in the books and Sean Kramer was there to see it.

First-year defensive coordinator Alex Grinch had a good first day, winning the team period with a goal line stand. That’s the thrust of Sean’s story in the paper today.

I wrote a little about the Cougars myself, checking into the potential reasons for Sebastian LaRue’s dismissal.

Here in Houston we filled the paper with ink about today’s matchup between Gonzaga and UCLA for a ticket to the Elite Eight. Jim Meehan has the advance , John Blanchette has the column , naturally, and I wrote a story about the good vibrations finally coming UCLA’s way. Through the power of teamwork, Jim and I also put together this notebook .

— Arizona’s trip to the Elite Eight is already assured after last night’s win over Xavier.

— Looking back at another important UCLA trip to Houston in March.

— Duke may be the favorite but Utah has some definite advantages in the matchup.