College football is my day job. I cover Northwestern and write about the Big Ten, especially if the word "expansion" is involved. I also follow Northwestern hoops, assist K.C. Johnson on the Bulls beat and cover golf. I write the "18 holes with ... " column, in which I describe the experience of playing a top course with a celebrity. (Feel free to hate me.) I've also reported from the Masters, U.S. Open, PGA Championship and BMW Championship for two years running.

Born and raised in the college football mecca of Manhattan in New York City, I graduated from Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism in 1994. After stints at the New York Daily News and Sports Illustrated, I joined the Trib in '96. I've covered Notre Dame, the White Sox, the Cubs (Oh, how I miss Sammy) and written a sports media column. I appear on the Big Ten Network's "Big Ten Football and Beyond" show and pinch-hit on WSCR-AM 670's "Danny Mac Show." I vote for the Heisman Trophy and -- much to David Kaplan's chagrin -- the Baseball Hall of fame. My wife, daughter and I live in Lakeview.

There are few things I like doing more than whacking a softball or a golf ball. I've also been known to splash the occasional poker chip. And if "The Simpsons," "Mad Men" or "Modern Family" is on, I just might be watching.

Nine holes with ... Rocco Mediate 5/25/2013
Former U.S. Open runner-up has brought his fast-talking, fun-loving style to the senior tour Before he let me ride in his cart, Rocco Mediate needed a yes on this question: "You like music?"        

9 holes with: Alexi Giannoulias 5/18/2013
As golfer, former Senate candidate and Illinois treasurer a pretty good basketball player A golf day with Alexi Giannoulias does not begin at the driving range or Sportmart.        

18 holes with … Tim Beckman 5/11/2013
Illini football coach brimming with positive energy despite 2-10 debut season Tim Beckman faced a dilemma on the 14th hole at Olympia Fields' North Course: lay up or try to fly it 160 yards from the right rough to clear the scrub area.        

18 holes with ... Jonathan Ogden 5/4/2013
Hall of Fame electee a man of big drives, big appetite LAS VEGAS — Jonathan Ogden once lectured a young Tommie Harris during a Ravens-Bears game.        

Woods goes home empty-handed again 4/15/2013
Finishes tied for 4th, 8th straight year green jacket eludes him AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods was right about one thing. Two, actually.