One of the disadvantages of living on the West Coast (besides getting all shook up occasionally) is the lack of Cracker Barrels. It’s a shame Angelenos don’t get to enjoy the down home delights of the restaurant’s chicken fried steak, then be able to complete their dining experience with a lovely stroll through the eatery’s Old Country Store.

(SbB Girls Denise, Colene & Crystal sit a spell at the Barrel)

Since it’s been a while since our last visit, we didn’t realize that Cracker Barrel now carries official NCAA collegiate merchandise. And such athletic amenities were apparently too tempting for a North Carolina couple to pass up - and even more tempting not to pay for.

The GASTON GAZETTE reports that James & Renee Tysinger were arrested Tuesday for stealing about $158 worth of University of North Carolina merchandise from the Cracker Barrel’s Gastonia location.

What ill-gotten gains did the Tysingers try to take?

They took a UNC Tar Heels water pitcher that sells for $29.99, a Tar Heel cookie jar worth $39.99, a UNC T-shirt ($19.99), a Carolina clock ($29.99) and a UNC platter and soft basketball ($24.98), according to an affidavit. The Tysingers are also accused of stealing a set of Duke beverage coasters valued at $12.99.

They must be Tar Heel fans, not just because of the plethora of Carolina crap they stole, but also become the only Blue Devil merchandise they swiped was to be insultingly covered up by their Natty Lights.

Both Tysingers were charged with larceny, with James’ bond set at $1,000 & Renee’s at $500. That leaves the couple with a net loss of around $1,342.

That could sure buy a whole lot of Goo Goo Clusters.