By now you've all probably heard about O.J. Simpson and his, how should I put this...extracurricular "exploits." Well, he was released from jail today, and it would seem with his past that one would want to distance themself from such a controversial figure. Well one place that doesn't seem to see it that way is USC, where of course the former running back went to school. There was a great article about it today in the LA Daily News (read about it here).

Here's a quick quote fromthe article from athletic director Mike Garret, himself a former Heisman winner at USC on the subject of Simpson's jersey and awards still prominently displayed on campus:

"We honor people who came through here, in the time they played," Garrett said. "So what you're telling me is that ... if someone did something here and later in life, many years later, something happens ... that means you take it down?"

Ummm...yes? Isn't that what most schools would do rather been seen as possibly supporting an alleged double murderer and possible felon? As the writer mentions also, other Trojan Heisman winners themselves have their own problems (Charles White and substance abuse, Reggie Bush and the NCAA, Matt Leinart and children) but those are not on the same par as Simpson's problems.

Pete Carroll for one at least sounded like he didn't really know what to make of the situation. Garrett though is the one directly in charge of the display, and as a representative of the school at large and not just the athletic department, should make the right decision and disassociate USC from Simpson. His issues supercede any accomplishments made on the field. It seems as if he may believe that no matter what a person does off the field, his exploits on it can't be tarnished. Well in this case, they definitely can, and I think Garrett is making the wrong decision by leaving Simpsons memorabilia on display. Luckily for Garrett, USC is number one and nobody willlikely notice or care. But perhaps everybody should.

Simpson's Heisman trophy is prominently displayed at USC's Heritage Hall (second from the left).