Alabama fires staffer over songs aimed at Newton

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- The University of Alabama has fired an employee who played songs aimed at Auburn quarterback Cam Newton before the Iron Bowl.

University spokeswoman Debbie Lane said Monday that the part-time staffer was fired for the unauthorized songs. ``Take the Money and Run'' and ``Son of a Preacher Man'' were played while Newton and the Tigers warmed up. The NCAA has been investigating allegations that Newton's father, a pastor, solicited $180,000 from Mississippi State during recruiting.

Lane said in a statement that all music and videos played in the stadium before and during games have to be approved by a senior athletic administrator. She said the staffer who was not named didn't get those songs cleared.

The Tuscaloosa News first reported the firing.