FRANCHIONE TO LEAVE 12TH MAN BEHIND AFTER BUYOUT: Don’t know if this was covered in the newsletter, but Dennis Franchione could be cashing in his contract:

CBS SPORTSLINE reports that the Texas A&M coach is close to accepting a buyout that would end his stay in Aggieland.A&M AD Bill Byrne had said that he will wait until the end of the season before determining Franchione’s status as a university employee.

Dennis is just over .500 at the school with a 31-28 record, but is only 2-12 against the teams that matter: Texas, Oklahoma & Texas Tech.

Add the turmoil of sending out secret emails to boosters for $1200 a subscription, and it appears Dennis’ days with the 12th Man are done.If Franchione flees, who’ll step in? The DECATUR (AL) DAILY says the eyes of Texas A&M are upon Auburn, as Tommy Tuberville has been rumored for the impending opening. However, Tubes says he won’t talk about the Aggies situation - at least not during the season.

If Tommy T does leave the Auburn Plains, it will be the 2nd straight coach from Alabama to run around with Reveille. Franchione was previously rolling with the Crimson Tide before he arrived at College Station.And if Tuberville gets scalloped, there’s always UAB’s Neil Callaway or Troy’s Larry Blakeney - who can actually beat Big 12 schools.