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.

18 holes with "The McNeil and Spiegel Show" 5/22/2012
Golf with the Score's midday hosts isn't about the score, it's about having fun Dan McNeil looked the part. He appeared to have come from the practice range, not the radio booth. He showed up in matching red-and-black shirt, visor and head covers, all bearing the name of his alma mater, Ball State.

Big Ten on board for 4-team football playoff 5/16/2012
ADs want rotating bowl sites, including Rose, to host semis beginning in 2014 Once on life support, the proposal to play semifinal playoff games on campus is now dead.

Big Ten thinking football playoff 5/15/2012
Delany, athletic directors will kick around issues in Chicago Last we left college football's decision-makers, they were metaphorically high-fiving each other in Hollywood, Fla., for doing something that will make them popular with the vast majority of fans.

18 Holes with … Mike Small 5/12/2012
Illinois golf coach has carved out a nice living as a player too Poor Mike Small. He thought he'd driven up from Illini territory to play a casual round of golf. But his morning began with a plea from someone who putts as if he's wearing oven mitts.

18 holes with ... Robbie Gould 5/5/2012
Bears kicker hones his competitive edge on golf course Robbie Gould reached the green on the par-5 in two shots, sank his second putt for a birdie and began a mock celebration: "First one! Holy #%$@!"