21.   Football became his escape, his cocoon.

22.   Football became his lifeboat.

23.   Football officiating would become a career, not a hobby.

24.   Instead, football became hugely costly.

25.   Led by ringleader Aaron Flowers, Cal State Northridge football has become as breathtaking as a circus high-wire act.

26.   Notre Dame football has become . . . ordinary, which is the harshest thing you can say about the program.

27.   Now comes the rematch at Rich Stadium on Saturday, and this is where football becomes fun.

28.   Notre Dame football has become ... ordinary, which is the harshest thing you can say about the program.

29.   Playing football became a lifeline for Epps, a chance to release anger and find his goals.

30.   Pro football has become a hit with Hispanics, and they might enjoy a vehicle that takes them inside the NFL.