Ellington

College Basketball: Mississippi State vs. Fairfield (8 p.m., 620 AM): The Bulldogs begin their season in the Coaches vs. Cancer Classic in Birmingham. Unfortunately, Lawrence Roberts won't be playing thanks to NCAA trouble and a broken nose.

Friday, Nov. 12

College Football: Southern Miss at Memphis (7 p.m., ESPN2/1180 AM,/104.3 FM): The Eagles' loss last week took the luster off this matchup. But if the Tigers want to prove they're ready to take a step up in CUSA, they have to beat USM. … High school football (7 p.m.): The playoffs are here. Find a game near you. … College basketball, VASDA USA at Jackson State (7 p.m.): The Tigers' first exhibition game.

Saturday, Nov. 13

College Football: Ole Miss at Arkansas (11:30 a.m., Ch. 12/97.3 FM): The winner of this one will at least still be eligible for a bowl game. … Hinds at Pearl River (2 p.m.): Last year's finalists meet again in Poplarville.

Sunday, Nov. 14

Pro Football: Kansas City at New Orleans (noon, Ch. 12, 620 AM): You don't have to watch "The Apprentice" to see a man lose his job on TV. Just keep watching Jim Haslett coach the Saints.

Monday, Nov. 15

Pro Football: Philadelphia at Dallas (8 p.m., Ch. 16/930 AM): It could get ugly for America's Team.

Tuesday, Nov. 16

Women's College Basketball: Blue Mountain at Belhaven (6 p.m.): The Lady Hilltoppers call on the Lady Blazers. It sounds silly, doesn't it?

The Slate is a product of the twisted mind of Doctor S. For more twisted sports, read the Amazing SportsBlog at http://www.jacksonfreepress.com.