So what is it about quarterbacks named Ben just not knowing when it call it quits on their collegiate careers?

First it was UCLA's Ben Olson, who's now rehabbing from his second broken foot in the last two months and hoping to make a return to the field before his fifth and final season runs out.

And now it's Cincinnati QB Ben Mauk, who is appealing for the fourth time the NCAA's decision to not grant him an extra year of eligibility.

There's no question that Mauk is a quality quarterback — just look at the numbers if you don't believe me.

After suffering arm and shoulder injuries at Wake Forest in 2006, the guy threw for 31 touchdowns and over 3,100 yards last season, leading the Bearcats to a No. 17 ranking in the final AP poll.

But has he not gotten the message? Does he not understand that the NCAA has made up its mind on this one?

While I commend Mauk for his bravery and persistence in challenging the NCAA's ruling again and again, at some point you have to cut your losses.

That point, unfortunately, is now.

After all, if the NCAA already rejected his three earlier appeals, what's going to change their mind this time around?

Whatever Mauk brings to the table, it better be some pretty convincing evidence.

That evidence is in regard to a foot injury that he sustained during his freshman season at Wake Forest, and while the NCAA works this weekend to review the new information that's been submitted to them, I find it hard to see Mauk taking snaps under center in a Cincy uniform next week. Cincinnati coach Brian Kelly, in fact, hasn't even allowed Mauk to attend practice this summer in fear of violating NCAA rules and costing his team wins and potential bowl money.

Thus, it's time to let this one rest, Ben. It's time to move on to the next point in your life, whether it contains football or not.

Because as the old saying goes, "All good things must come to an end," and for Mauk, that just happens to be now.