Arizona Referee Streaker Jace Lankow Charged With Felony: Are You Kidding Me?

Arizona-UCLA Streaker Facing Felony Charges, Jail Time Unlikely

By now just about everyone knows of Jace Lankow and the streaking he did across Arizona Stadium on Thursday night. While no one was hurt during the incident -- well, no one besides Lankow, who was tackled by multiple police officers -- the 22-year old could be facing a class 6 felony charge.

No, we aren't kidding. AZ Central confirms the news:

He was led off the field in handcuffs and charged with a class 6 felony, which means he's facing a maximum of a year and a half in jail if he has no previous felony convictions.

This seems incredibly unfair and the charges could (and probably will) be reduced, according to Business Insider.

There is a possibility Lankow's charges will be reduced to a Class 1 misdemeanor based on his criminal history and the nature of the offense.

My guess is Lankow will pay a hefty fine, get a hard slap on the wrist and will not be welcome back at Arizona Stadium. It would be absolutely absurd if he has to serve any time in prison and the community would be furious.

Hey, he's a college kid who had a crazy idea that turned badly for him. It happens. 

For more on the Wildcats, check out AZ Desert Swarm.

Arizona vs. UCLA Fight: Four Wildcats Suspended For Actions In Brawl

Four Arizona Wildcats have been suspended for their actions on Thursday night against the UCLA Bruins. After a fan dressed as a referee snuck onto the field and streaked across Arizona Stadium, a fight broke out between the two teams. An official release from UA has the details on the suspensions:

"Arizona defensive backs Shaquille Richardson, Jourdon Grandon, Mark Watley and Lyle Brown have been suspended by the league following a Pac-12 review of the shoving match and fight between UA and UCLA just before halftime of the Cats' 48-12 football victory on Thursday. Six UCLA players also received suspension.

Richardson and Grandon will serve full-game suspensions, while Watley and Brown will have to miss the first half of Arizona's game at Washington Oct. 29.

Richardson, a starting cornerback, was ejected from the game immediately after the fracas on Thursday and did not play in the second half. Grandon has started several games as a nickel back, while Watley and Brown are key backups and special teams players.

Athletic director Greg Byrne, interim head coach Tim Kish and Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott all weighed in on the situation:

"It was an unfortunate incident and one with consequences that we fully understand and support," Arizona athletics director Greg Byrne said. "The University of Arizona in no way accepts such behavior from student-athletes."

"I'm disappointed for Arizona and UCLA," interim Arizona head coach Tim Kish said. "The altercation was a black mark on what was a good game for us. We know that players get excited and driven during games, but composure has to be maintained throughout. We'll learn from this and grow."

In handing down the suspensions, Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott said, "The conference is extremely disappointed in the actions of the student-athletes involved in this incident. It is unacceptable behavior and violated conference rules, as well as NCAA fighting rules. I have taken these actions today because it is imperative that we hold our student-athletes and coaches to the highest standards of sportsmanship," Scott said.

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For more on the Wildcats, head on over to AZ Desert Swarm.

Arizona Ref-Stripper Identity Revealed, New Video Uncovered

Meet Jacen Lankow, perpetrator of the Arizona-UCLA referee/stripper/streaking episode that took place Thursday night at Arizona Stadium.  

Here's a new look at the whole event, likely taken by some of his friends from the stands. From this video you can see Lankow don the referee garb, run out on the field as an impostor, than immediately start his strip/streak/idiotically not noticing that security guard that tackled him from behind. Lankow obviously wanted to be found; why else would he put his Twitter feed on his back and chest for his time on National television? 

U of A v.s. UCLA Streaker 2011 ENTIRE VIDEO (via lankowlllyk)

One thing is for sure, he's no Soy Bomb.

The most interesting part of the video comes at the very end, when a bit of poor editing gives us a clear shot of Lankow in the infamous underwear along with a couple of Wildcat fans:
. 

One can argue that he did this on purpose, or that he simply didn't create a feasible exit strategy. It didn't seem like he was looking for an out when he was running around, more like just making sure everybody there saw him do it. If you ask me this kid was in it for the spotlight (which I am giving him as I write this) because I don't know what more than 15 minutes of fame could possibly come from this. We all have our time in the sun, and it's already setting on Mr. Lankow. 

Your parents must be so proud of you Jacen!

Arizona Wildcats Destroy UCLA In Wild West Massacre, 48-12

It was a pretty wild night in Tucson, AZ with the Arizona Wildcats doing far more than win their first game against and FBS opponent in 10 tries. The UCLA Bruins came into the desert and played the role of hapless victim to a tee, giving up six first half touchdowns to the Wildcats on all six of their first half possessions.

The second half of the game provided little of interest beyond the first two career field goals for the Wildcats field goal kicker, John Bonano.

The win comes in the first game for Arizona under interim head coach Tim Kish. Kish stepped in after Mike Stoops was fired by the school after the team started the season 1-4. 

The end of the first half featured a fan impersonating an official who then ran off the field shedding his costume all the while giant brawl between the two teams erupted. 

Arizona put up a whooping 573 yards of offense against the Bruins with quarterback Nick Foles going 26-39 for 290 yards and three touchdowns, all to Juron Criner. The Wildcats held UCLA to just 37 yards on the ground while they put up 255 of their own.

The win helps the ASU Sun Devils who were competing with UCLA for the Pac-12 South Division title.

For more on this epic Arizona win, visit AZ Desert Swarm.

ANIMATED: Streaker Impersonates Pac-12 Ref At Arizona-UCLA Game

Arizona Wildcats First Half Slaughter Of UCLA Ends With Streaker Brawl (VIDEO)

Stop us if you've heard this one before. Once upon a time, at the end of the first half of a college football game between the Arizona Wildcats and UCLA Bruins a person dressed in referee costume ran on to the field. The fake official ran to the action and tried to get the football. After being discovered as a fraud by the ever-alert Pac-12 officials (the real ones) he ran off and began shedding his clothes.

While the ever alert Pac-12 officials are following the action with the fake streaking official, a small group of players from the UCLA football team and the Arizona football team engage in a brawl. The brawl quick spreads to all parts of the field as the benches clear and chaos ensures.

As a result of the brawl, two players (one from each football team) were ejected from the game by the (real) Pac-12 officials. It is not clear what happened to the fake official-turned streaker, although we can assume his evening will end in a jail cell.

Also, even more unbelievably, the Arizona Wildcats scored a touchdown on all six of their first half possessions and even more shockingly, managed to convert all six point after kicks. They led 42-7 after two quarters of "play".

If you don't believe this story, here's the video proof
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VIDEO: Juron Criner Amazing Catch For Arizona Vs. UCLA

UCLA vs. Arizona Score Update: Wildcats Lead 42-7 After Wild Half

The Arizona Wildcats unleashed an offensive firestorm on the UCLA Bruins in the first half on Thursday night, taking a commanding 42-7 lead into the locker room. 

Wildcats quarterback Nick Foles threw three touchdown passes to Juron Criner, Keola Antolin racked up 77 yards on the ground and Arizona recovered two UCLA fumbles to help take an improbable lead at the half. 

Foles passed for 242 yards while Bruins QB Kevin Prince was only able to complete eight passes for 152 yards.

The whole half was owned by Arizona, a team that had a ton of competing emotions after the departure of their head coach, Mike Stoops. It all came out against UCLA, and the Bruins weren't prepared for the onslaught.

After the first, Arizona led 14-7. In the second, the Wildcats scored four touchdowns to push the game out of reach for the Pac-12 South contenders from Los Angeles.

By the end of the half, with a 35-point lead, chaos overcame the field. Both sides erupted into a full melee, with both benches clearing and meeting in the middle of the field. By the end of the wild scenario, two players were ejected from the game, but the point had been made: UCLA was getting embarrassed.

We will have more on the brawl as soon as possible.

UCLA vs. Arizona Score Update: Nick Foles, Juron Criner Key 14-7 Lead For Wildcats

After an eventful bye week that saw their head coach get fired, the Arizona Wildcats released some pent-up frustrations on the UCLA Bruins in first quarter action on Thursday night. Interim head coach Tim Kish relied on the experience of Nick Foles and the results were very solid.

On the opening drive of the game, Nick Foles led an efficient drive before connecting with Juron Criner in the endzone to take a 7-0 Arizona lead. The defense, showing a new defensive wrinkle (lining up in a Bear formation), forced the Bruins to punt on their initial drive.

Arizona then stormed out to a 14-0 lead after Ka'Deem Carey stormed through the UCLA defense on an 18-yard touchdown run.

UCLA would not lie down easily, however. They have a lot to play for and are still very much in the race for the Pac-12 South crown.

On 4th and 5, the Bruins went for it on Arizona's 16-yard line. After a play action, UCLA QB Kevin Prince went back to Johnathan Franklin, who was wide open on the left side of the field for an essential touchdown. 

Gino Crump had a big quarter for the Wildcats, leading the team with five receptions for 43 yards. He made an excellent catch along the sideline on the game's opening drive to set up Criner's score.

Keola Antolin had 53 yards on four carries for Arizona. The offense has looked great for Kish and the UA fans. Can they keep up the fast pace?

For more on the Wildcats, head over to AZ Desert Swarm.

PHOTO: Arizona Stadium Half-Empty Before UCLA Kickoff

Arizona vs. UCLA: Kickoff Time, TV, Radio And Online Stream

The Arizona Wildcats take on the UCLA Bruins in a battle of teams trying their hardest to return to their winning ways. Here's all your pertinent information.

Kickoff: 9:02 PM EDT/ 6:02 PM PST

Venue: Arizona Stadium, Tucson

Television Coverage: ESPN will be broadcasting the game. Rece Davis (play-by-play), Jesse Palmer (analyst), Craig James (analyst), Jenn Brown (sideline reporter) are your announcers. ESPN3D is also available if you've got the TV for it.

Radio: Brian Jeffries (pxp), Lamont Lovett (color analyst), Dana Cooper (sideline analyst) are your announcers.1290 AM The Source (Tucson). Also available on the Arizona Radio Network.  Click here for a list of Wildcat radio affiliates. Additionally available on Satellite Radio on Sirius 91/XM 91 (Arizona broadcast) or 85 (UCLA broadcast).

Online Stream: Watch at ESPN3 if you wish to watch it online.  Click here for a list of cable/satellite companies that provide ESPN3 access.

Last Meeting: The last team Arizona beat that was an FBS opponent was UCLA, as the Wildcats narrowly edged the Bruins 29-21 despite racking up the yards. Mike Stoops was the head coach back then though, not sure if Tim Kish has that magic touch.

For more on Arizona football, Arizona Desert Swarm is where to be. For more on UCLA football, check out Bruins Nation.

Arizona vs. UCLA, Injury Report: Juron Criner Probable, Justin Washington Questionable Against Bruins

Nick Foles and the rest of the Arizona Wildcats are ready to host the UCLA Bruins under the lights at Arizona Stadium Thursday night, looking for their first win in Pac-12 play this season. 

The 'Cats are trying to stay healthy, and not fret on the fact that safety Adam Hall won't be around to stop Richard Beuhaut Thursday night, looking to get the Tim Kish era off on the right foot. Wide receiver Juron Criner is listed as probable after injuring his knee against Oregon State before the bye week, but should be good to go this Thursday.

As for cornerback Trevin Wade, his status is still considered questionable after hurting his shoulder against Oregon State as well, sitting on the sideline for most of the second half in a sling. Look for senior Lyle Brown to start in his place if Wade can not go. 

Defensive tackle Justin Washington is also considered questionable this week as he is still recovering from minor knee surgery he had before the OSU game. Coach Kish expects him to be good to go on Thursday, The freshman All-American last season has 10 tackles in four games this year so far. 

Left guard Chris Putton Putton is questionable as well after injuring his ankle against  Oregon a few weeks back, keeping him out of game action since. Junior Shane Zink took his place against USC, but injured himself and may be done for the year. If Putton and Zink can't go, look for the Wildcats to turn to redshirt freshman Carter Lees to start.

For more on the Wildcats, head over to Arizona Desert Swarm to get in on the action.

Hey Arizona Wildcat Fans, Support The Team On Thursday Night

Arizona vs. UCLA: Wildcats Preparing For Bruins, Relaxed Atmosphere In Practice

Thursday night's game against the UCLA Bruins is a big one for the Arizona Wildcats. While it may not seem so on paper -- hey, the two teams have four combined wins and each school probably has a different head coach next season -- UA can prove to the nation they will not lay down for the rest of the season.

Mike Stoops was known for his intense practices and demeanor on the sidelines. Since his departure a week ago, practice has been much more laid back and the team is looking to gel for the final two months of the season. One of the reasons Stoops was fired is the team no longer had fun while playing the game they love; this appears to be changing under interim head coach Tim Kish.

Instead of their usual attire, coaches wore a hat of their choosing to practice. The atmosphere this week has been much calmer than it usually is. The players are continuing to work hard, but instead of bickering and pointing the finger on blown plays, they're laughing and having a good time. This is not to say UA does not care about their matchup on Thursday night, but after starting the season 1-5, they're trying something new. 

Hey, what does the team have to lose at this point?

Arizona Vs. UCLA Odds: Wildcats Narrow Favorites Over Bruins Even With New Head Coach

The Arizona Wildcats have lost game after game after game. Sure, about six of them came against top ten competition, but them's the breaks, and losing to a painfully bad Oregon St. Beavers team isn't going to earn them any brownie points.

Nevertheless, for reasons unbeknownst to us, Arizona is favored this Thursday night by a field goal over the UCLA Bruins. UCLA is 2-1 in-conference (although their two wins are to OSU and Washington State), so it's surprising to see that Vegas sees these teams on equal playing field.

It could be that Arizona is better than their record and have just played a brutal stretch--playing Stanford, Oregon and USC to start conference play is a death sentence. Or perhaps it's just the fact that they're facing a UCLA defense plays right into the hands of the Wildcats offense. Last season Arizona lit up UCLA for 583 yards behind the backup play of Matt Scott, and you figure UA will not let up at home with Nick Foles at the helm.

The Wildcats will be really seeking a win for their interim head coach Tim Kish, and have a good chance to end their streak of futility in big conference games against a vulnerable opponent. This line makes sense, and Arizona could be a very strong pick.

To talk about the Arizona-UCLA game with Wildcats fans, head to Arizona Desert Swarm. To talk about the game with UCLA fans, head to Bruins Nation.

Arizona Blues: Safety Adam Hall Is Likely Done For The Year

Arizona safety Adam Hall is likely out for the season after re-aggravating knee injury.