DJ: Meyer Huddles with Pete Rose

CINCINNATI - Ohio State Head Football Coach Urban Meyer held an impromptu chat with reporters and assorted Reds officials before Wednesday night's Cincinnati-Cleveland game. His demeanor spoke relaxation. He was after all, just taking in a ball game with his kids. And a one time Braves prospect, Meyer's baseball background was evident when he and his son Nate delivered ceremonial pre-game pitches.

The last time we'd spoken was during a news conference before his Florida Gators dissected UC in the Sugar Bowl. So we caught up on the status of some mutual acquaintances from his days playing at the University of Cincinnati and ongoing ties with people like fellow former Bearcat and retired high school coach Lou Cynkar. And of course current Cincinnati coach Butch Jones, as he and Urban have the same agent.

As he talked with Columbus Dispatch reporter Todd Jones, late of the Cincinnati Post, an old friend beckoned me to the Diamond seat area to tell me that Pete Rose was dining inside. I informed him that Urban Meyer was just down the rail.

"Pete would love to say hi to Urban. Send him inside."

You would think that a coach with multiple national championships to his credit would be nonplussed about such things. Think again.

With that I had the enviable task of telling Urban Meyer that Pete wanted an audience.

"Pete…Rose…is inside….?" With that Urban turned a wide eyed pleading look to his Reds host's and was told he had the run of the place. Sure you can go see him.

He didn't hesitate. "Nate, GiGi," he called to his kids. "Come on. I want you to meet Pete Rose."

And so off they went, Urban Meyer, his son and daughter close behind, off to meet the Hit King. Nice to know that there is a bit of 'little boy' that still resides in one of college football's biggest men.