Graham told me Tuesday after coaching the defensive squad through a practice session for the upcoming North/South college all-star football game that even though he hadn't gotten around to signing the deal yet, he had agreed to it.

Graham led the Owls to an incredible turn-around year as he directed them to a 7 & 5 regular season record and a berth in the New Orleans Bowl. It was the first post-season bowl appearance in 45 years for Rice. Graham told me that not only was his contract extended through the 2012 season, all of the members of his staff were also.

Graham believes this committment from the school will strengthen his recruiting efforts. As for the financial stability it gives him, he told me, "Actually that's probably more important to my wife than me." But seriously .... this guy who blew into H-town after spending three seasons running the defense at Tulsa .... totally changed the way Rice supporters look at their football program. For this Todd Graham definately earned a new contract.