An announcement will be made Wednesday stating that the Montreal Expos baseball club will be moving to Washington, D.C., according to an AP article on ESPN.com.
The nation's capital has been long waiting for the return of the national pastime, having lost the Washington Senators in 1971 to what is now the Texas Ranger ball club.
Additionally, Major League Baseball has been looking for a new home for the Expos for the past two years. In 2002, the financially troubled club was bought by the other 29 major league owners.
Washington outbid Las Vegas; Norfolk, Va.; Monterrey, Mexico; Portland, Ore.; and Northern Virginia. The bid includes a $440 million package that includes a new ballpark to be built for the team, along with $13 million renovations to RFK stadium, where the club would play for three years while the park is built.
Montreal's last game is scheduled for Wednesday against Florida. Attendance at Monday's series opener was a blistering 3,923.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
So Much for Number One: Winslow Out for Year
Cleveland Browns' rookie tight end, Kellen Winslow II, will need a second surgery on his broken fibula Wednesday, according to an AP article on ESPN.com. The surgery will knock Winslow out for the rest of the season, instead of the eight to ten weeks that doctors had originally speculated.
Winslow was the first-round overall draft pick by the Browns in the 2004 National Football League draft. He was expected to bring more stability to the offense, along with giving newly acquired quarterback, Jeff Garcia, more weapons.
However, as it stands, Winslow is at risk of losing a lot more than playing time. As a clause in his six-year, $40 million contract he signed in August, he must play in 35 percent of the Cleveland Browns plays this year to acquire a $5.3 million one-time signing bonus.
Winslow is undergoing a second surgery in order to stabilize tendons and ligaments in his right leg. He is expected to make a full recovery and return in uniform for the 2005-2006 football season.
Winslow was the first-round overall draft pick by the Browns in the 2004 National Football League draft. He was expected to bring more stability to the offense, along with giving newly acquired quarterback, Jeff Garcia, more weapons.
However, as it stands, Winslow is at risk of losing a lot more than playing time. As a clause in his six-year, $40 million contract he signed in August, he must play in 35 percent of the Cleveland Browns plays this year to acquire a $5.3 million one-time signing bonus.
Winslow is undergoing a second surgery in order to stabilize tendons and ligaments in his right leg. He is expected to make a full recovery and return in uniform for the 2005-2006 football season.
Monday, September 27, 2004
Syracuse Player Stabbed in Fight
Syracuse cornerback, Tanard Jackson, was stabbed in the chest Sunday during a fight outside of the campus student center, according to an AP article on SI.com.
Jackson, a sophomore from Germantown, Md., was leaving a dance sponsored by a campus fraternity. At the dance some of the football players stepped in to end a confrontation between two different groups.
Police said that Jackson and teammate, Reggie McCoy, were in a parking lot outside the student center when a fight broke out involving about fifteen people. Jackson was attacked as he walked to his car with his friends.
Jackson was released from the hospital Monday and will reportedly make a "speedy recovery." He is not expected to play this weekend in Syracuse's conference opener against Rutgers on Saturday.
Jackson, a sophomore from Germantown, Md., was leaving a dance sponsored by a campus fraternity. At the dance some of the football players stepped in to end a confrontation between two different groups.
Police said that Jackson and teammate, Reggie McCoy, were in a parking lot outside the student center when a fight broke out involving about fifteen people. Jackson was attacked as he walked to his car with his friends.
Jackson was released from the hospital Monday and will reportedly make a "speedy recovery." He is not expected to play this weekend in Syracuse's conference opener against Rutgers on Saturday.
Friday, September 24, 2004
No Third-Coming for Jordan
Michael Jordan announced at a press conference on Friday that, despite recent rumors, he will not make a comeback to the National Basketball Association, according to an article on ESPN.com.
The comeback, if it did materialize, would mark the third time Jordan has come out of retirement.
The rumor mill began to churn when Jordan entered at Hoops Gym in Chicago earlier in September looking for a pickup game. Jordan wants to make sure everyone knows that was all it was--a pickup game. He was also just coming off a basketball camp where he played some of the top young talent in the country.
Word has also travelled around the league that he has contacted Miami center, Shaquille O'Neal about playing for the Heat.
In Friday's press conference Jordan commented that he thought the rumors were amusing, but wanted to make sure they carried no validity.
ESPN Insider Chad Ford stated that, "I don't think you'll see Michael playing in the NBA again." I'm sure Jordan fans (and basketball fans) are hoping the same thing.
The comeback, if it did materialize, would mark the third time Jordan has come out of retirement.
The rumor mill began to churn when Jordan entered at Hoops Gym in Chicago earlier in September looking for a pickup game. Jordan wants to make sure everyone knows that was all it was--a pickup game. He was also just coming off a basketball camp where he played some of the top young talent in the country.
Word has also travelled around the league that he has contacted Miami center, Shaquille O'Neal about playing for the Heat.
In Friday's press conference Jordan commented that he thought the rumors were amusing, but wanted to make sure they carried no validity.
ESPN Insider Chad Ford stated that, "I don't think you'll see Michael playing in the NBA again." I'm sure Jordan fans (and basketball fans) are hoping the same thing.
Thursday, September 23, 2004
LaVar Arrington's Bad Day at Work
Things just went from bad to worse for Washington Redskins linebacker, LaVar Arrington on Thursday. According to an article on ESPN.com, Arrington was hit with a $5,000 fine by the National Football League before having surgery on his right knee to repair torn meniscus cartilage.
The National Football League handed Arrington the fine for a hit he made on New York Giants' running back, Tiki Barber, in a game last Sunday. The play was fined because Arrington grabbed Barber's facemask and twisted. The play was not penalized in the game, as the referees thought Barber was collared around the shoulder pads.
The knee injury without a doubt hurts the Redskins (and Arrington) worse. It is projected that the key to the Redskins' defense might miss two to four weeks in the season.
Washington will play its arch-rival, Dallas Cowboys, this coming Monday night.
The National Football League handed Arrington the fine for a hit he made on New York Giants' running back, Tiki Barber, in a game last Sunday. The play was fined because Arrington grabbed Barber's facemask and twisted. The play was not penalized in the game, as the referees thought Barber was collared around the shoulder pads.
The knee injury without a doubt hurts the Redskins (and Arrington) worse. It is projected that the key to the Redskins' defense might miss two to four weeks in the season.
Washington will play its arch-rival, Dallas Cowboys, this coming Monday night.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Forsberg Rejoins His Swedish Roots
While the National Hockey League works to salvage a season and acquiesce the labor tensions, Peter Forsberg already has some of his problems solved. The Colorado Avalanche Star announced Sunday that he will play in Sweden, even if the NHL saves its season, according to an AP article on ESPN.com.
Forsberg, along with several other National Hockey League stars, will rejoin his former Swedish team, Modo with a one-year contract. The former MVP of the league said that it felt right he come back to his former team. Things will feel at home for Forsberg, who will be coached by his father, Kent Forsberg.
Commenting on his return to Sweden, Forsberg indicated that he had always wanted to come back and play one more year for his former team. He was all too eager to finally make that dream come true.
Modo, with the acquistion of Forsberg and other elite players, becomes the instant favorite to win the Swedish League.
Forsberg, along with several other National Hockey League stars, will rejoin his former Swedish team, Modo with a one-year contract. The former MVP of the league said that it felt right he come back to his former team. Things will feel at home for Forsberg, who will be coached by his father, Kent Forsberg.
Commenting on his return to Sweden, Forsberg indicated that he had always wanted to come back and play one more year for his former team. He was all too eager to finally make that dream come true.
Modo, with the acquistion of Forsberg and other elite players, becomes the instant favorite to win the Swedish League.
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
Two Seattle Men Arrested in Death of Idaho Cornerback
University of Idaho football player, Eric McMillan, was shot to death while police arrested two men from Seattle late Sunday night, according to an AP article on ESPN.com. The two men were chased halfway across Washington State before finally being taken into custody.
McMillan, 19, the starting cornerback for the Vandals Saturday against Washington State, was declared dead after received a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. No motive for the shooting has been announced.
Hours after the shooting, Matthew R. Wells and James J. Wells were arrested on Interstate 90 in Washington. Both were booked into the Whitman County, Washington, Jail and were being held for investigation of felony attempting eluding with bail set at $75,000 each.
Both men were formerly football standouts at Ranier Beach High School in Seattle. They made an initial appearance in Superior Court on Monday and charges will likely be filed on Wednesday. No one knows why they would have been at the place of the shooting a day after the Vandals lost 49-8 to the Cougars.
"That's the question on everybody's mind right now," Conley said.
McMillan, 19, the starting cornerback for the Vandals Saturday against Washington State, was declared dead after received a fatal gunshot wound to the chest. No motive for the shooting has been announced.
Hours after the shooting, Matthew R. Wells and James J. Wells were arrested on Interstate 90 in Washington. Both were booked into the Whitman County, Washington, Jail and were being held for investigation of felony attempting eluding with bail set at $75,000 each.
Both men were formerly football standouts at Ranier Beach High School in Seattle. They made an initial appearance in Superior Court on Monday and charges will likely be filed on Wednesday. No one knows why they would have been at the place of the shooting a day after the Vandals lost 49-8 to the Cougars.
"That's the question on everybody's mind right now," Conley said.
Monday, September 20, 2004
Rice's Record Breaking Day
For the first time since December 1, 1985, Jerry Rice, the Oakland Raiders wide receiver, did not catch a pass in route to a victory over the Buffalo Bills Sunday, according to an AP article on ESPN.com.
Rice's National Football League record receptions streak was finally snapped at 274 games, a streak he did not want to see end quite yet. After being taken out with two minutes and thirty-seven seconds left to play, Rice took off his helmet and threw it on the ground, causing it to fly over one of the benches. He paced the sidelines for awhile, yelling in frustration, and seating himself alone on a bench. However, the always optimistic Rice knew that this was only another challenge for him.
"It's all right. It happens. Life goes on. I'll just start another one and get another 200." He said in a press conference after Sunday's game.
His teammates have complete confidence in him that he will start another streak. Rice will certainly have his chance next week when the Raiders face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Oakland.
Rice's National Football League record receptions streak was finally snapped at 274 games, a streak he did not want to see end quite yet. After being taken out with two minutes and thirty-seven seconds left to play, Rice took off his helmet and threw it on the ground, causing it to fly over one of the benches. He paced the sidelines for awhile, yelling in frustration, and seating himself alone on a bench. However, the always optimistic Rice knew that this was only another challenge for him.
"It's all right. It happens. Life goes on. I'll just start another one and get another 200." He said in a press conference after Sunday's game.
His teammates have complete confidence in him that he will start another streak. Rice will certainly have his chance next week when the Raiders face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Oakland.
Sunday, September 19, 2004
Finally a Rivalry, Bears stun Packers
The Chicago Bears finally decided to live up to their end of the bargain Sunday, defeating the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, 21-10. The Packers suffered only their third loss to the Bears in the last 21 meetings of this storied rivalry, according to an AP article on ESPN.com.
Bears coach, Lovie Smith, fulfilled his promise of beating the two-time defending champions. When hired in January, Smith vowed to make the defeat over the Packers his number one goal. But not only, did he make this victory his number one prize, he also promised he knew exactly how to beat Green Bay, beating them the last two times he faced them as the St. Louis Rams defensive coordinator.
Bears safety Mike Brown ran back a 95 yard fumble recovery in part of a 14-point swing for the Bears, and ultimately sparked their victory. It was the second longest fumble return for a score given up by Green Bay. The recovery was bittersweet, however, as the Bears lost Brown to an injury with his right Achilles tendon in the waning minutes of the game.
The Bears plan to take their new found identity to Minnesota next week to face a red-hot Vikings team. The will have to do so without Mike Brown.
Bears coach, Lovie Smith, fulfilled his promise of beating the two-time defending champions. When hired in January, Smith vowed to make the defeat over the Packers his number one goal. But not only, did he make this victory his number one prize, he also promised he knew exactly how to beat Green Bay, beating them the last two times he faced them as the St. Louis Rams defensive coordinator.
Bears safety Mike Brown ran back a 95 yard fumble recovery in part of a 14-point swing for the Bears, and ultimately sparked their victory. It was the second longest fumble return for a score given up by Green Bay. The recovery was bittersweet, however, as the Bears lost Brown to an injury with his right Achilles tendon in the waning minutes of the game.
The Bears plan to take their new found identity to Minnesota next week to face a red-hot Vikings team. The will have to do so without Mike Brown.
Vick Runs Over Rams
Sunday's game in Atlanta, Georgia proved to be more of a track meet than a football game as the Atlanta Falcons defeated the St. Louis Rams, 34-17. Falcon's quarterback Michael Vick and running back Warrick Dunn ran for a combined 242 yards, according to an AP article on ESPN.com.
Vick recorded his third 100-yard rushing game in only his thirtieth game as a professional quarterback. The current record for 100-yard rushing games for a quarterback is currently four games, a record Vick will certainly break in the near future. The 242 yards rushing by the Falcons is the highest team total since rushing for 260 yards against New Orleans two years ago. Overall, Vick combined for 288 yards of total offense to help break a seven game losing streak to the Rams.
"He did some things today, we were on the sideline with our mouths open," said Falcons fullback Justin Griffith, who caught four passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. "He's an awesome athlete. It's fun to play with him."
Vick and the Falcons will face the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday at home.
Vick recorded his third 100-yard rushing game in only his thirtieth game as a professional quarterback. The current record for 100-yard rushing games for a quarterback is currently four games, a record Vick will certainly break in the near future. The 242 yards rushing by the Falcons is the highest team total since rushing for 260 yards against New Orleans two years ago. Overall, Vick combined for 288 yards of total offense to help break a seven game losing streak to the Rams.
"He did some things today, we were on the sideline with our mouths open," said Falcons fullback Justin Griffith, who caught four passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. "He's an awesome athlete. It's fun to play with him."
Vick and the Falcons will face the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday at home.
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
LSU and Auburn Wait on Hurricane Ivan
With Hurricane Ivan approaching the Gulf Coast, college football might be facing another weekend of altered scheduling, according to an article on ESPN.com. Louisiana State University and Auburn are waiting on upcoming weather conditions before making a decision on Saturday's game at Auburn.
Coach Tommy Tuberville of Auburn indicated at a Tuesday press conference that a decision to postpone the game would be made Thursday. The decision is important because LSU and their fans must travel on Friday, making their window of recovery from the storm narrower. Auburn officials are currently monitoring weather conditions and, due to high potential risk of incredible winds and damaging flooding, the university has banned all RVs from parking on the campus.
There is a November 6th opening in both of the school's schedules, but a move to that date would land Auburn in a tough three-game stretch. If moved to November 6th, Auburn would play LSU, Georgia, and arch-rival Alabama, a move that coach Tuberville has said simply won't happen.
Auburn officials have also made an announcement that all fans planning to travel to the game hold their plans until an official statement has been made on whether the game will be played.
ESPN's pre-game and post-game show, College GameDay, will not be traveling to Auburn because of the potential risk of setting building the shows set. Instead the show will be moved to East Lansing, Michigan to highlight the matchup between Michigan State and Notre Dame.
Currently the South Eastern Conference game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. eastern kickoff, and will be televised on CBS.
Coach Tommy Tuberville of Auburn indicated at a Tuesday press conference that a decision to postpone the game would be made Thursday. The decision is important because LSU and their fans must travel on Friday, making their window of recovery from the storm narrower. Auburn officials are currently monitoring weather conditions and, due to high potential risk of incredible winds and damaging flooding, the university has banned all RVs from parking on the campus.
There is a November 6th opening in both of the school's schedules, but a move to that date would land Auburn in a tough three-game stretch. If moved to November 6th, Auburn would play LSU, Georgia, and arch-rival Alabama, a move that coach Tuberville has said simply won't happen.
Auburn officials have also made an announcement that all fans planning to travel to the game hold their plans until an official statement has been made on whether the game will be played.
ESPN's pre-game and post-game show, College GameDay, will not be traveling to Auburn because of the potential risk of setting building the shows set. Instead the show will be moved to East Lansing, Michigan to highlight the matchup between Michigan State and Notre Dame.
Currently the South Eastern Conference game is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. eastern kickoff, and will be televised on CBS.
Red Sox Nation United
The Boston Red Sox announced Wednesday that they have officially sold out their entire 81 home game schedule for the first time in franchise history, according to an article on ESPN.com.
The team announced that it just finished selling off its scattered-singles, obstructed view seats and standing room only tickets, all of which are reserved for game-day sales. If all 81 home games are played, the Red Sox will surpass 2.8 million dollars in attendance sells, setting a record for their fifth consecutive season. Boston joins three other baseball clubs to accomplish the same feat. The Cleveland Indians sold out their season tickets from 1996-2000, the Colorado Rockies in 1996, and the San Francisco Giants in 2000.
"This remarkable achievement is a testament to the passion and commitment of the fans of Red Sox Nation as well as a credit to our exceptional sales force and ticket office," team president Larry Lucchino said in a statement. Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, is currently Major League baseball's oldest and smallest ballpark, holding a capacity of 34,000. Recently team owners have added seats along the left-field wall and right-field roof.
If the weather allows it, Boston will finish the regular season with 145 consecutive sellouts, the third longest streak in history, behind Colorado and Cleveland. Colorado put up 203 consecutive sellouts before breaking the streak, while Cleveland managed 455 before stopping.
The team announced that it just finished selling off its scattered-singles, obstructed view seats and standing room only tickets, all of which are reserved for game-day sales. If all 81 home games are played, the Red Sox will surpass 2.8 million dollars in attendance sells, setting a record for their fifth consecutive season. Boston joins three other baseball clubs to accomplish the same feat. The Cleveland Indians sold out their season tickets from 1996-2000, the Colorado Rockies in 1996, and the San Francisco Giants in 2000.
"This remarkable achievement is a testament to the passion and commitment of the fans of Red Sox Nation as well as a credit to our exceptional sales force and ticket office," team president Larry Lucchino said in a statement. Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, is currently Major League baseball's oldest and smallest ballpark, holding a capacity of 34,000. Recently team owners have added seats along the left-field wall and right-field roof.
If the weather allows it, Boston will finish the regular season with 145 consecutive sellouts, the third longest streak in history, behind Colorado and Cleveland. Colorado put up 203 consecutive sellouts before breaking the streak, while Cleveland managed 455 before stopping.
Tuesday, September 14, 2004
Rangers vs. Athletics. . .and Their Fans
Texas Rangers reliever Frank Francisco was arrested Tuesday morning after throwing a chair into the crowd, striking one fan in the head and breaking another's nose, according to an article on ESPN.com.
Francisco was brought into the Oakland Police Department where he was charged with aggravated battery. He posted bond early Tuesday morning and was released, but Texas Rangers officials did not return calls from the associated press. Later on Tom Hicks, owner of the baseball club, issued a statement of apology on behalf of Francisco and the entire organization.
The spectator who was injured, an unidentified woman, was said to be pressing charges, according to the vice president of stadium operations in Oakland.
With two outs in the ninth inning, Rangers' Alfonso Soriano tied the game at five with his second homerun of the night. When Hank Blalock stepped to the plate seconds later, the Texas bench and bullpen cleared out. Texas relief pitcher Doug Brocail was seen screaming at a fan and had to be restrained, after the two exchanged insults. Other players also had to be held back.
Francisco then threw a chair into the right-field box seats. The chair hit one man on his head, bounced, and struck the woman on her left temple. Security ran to the scene and temporarily cleared out a small section of fans.
There was talk amongst the umpires and managers about suspending the game and declaring a forfeit. No ejections were made. The Rangers had requested extra security in the area before the game began, but, according to Oakland Athletics stadium manager David Rinetti, no request was made.
Play resumed 19 minutes later when security and managers regained control. The Athletics won 7-6 in the 10th inning.
Francisco was brought into the Oakland Police Department where he was charged with aggravated battery. He posted bond early Tuesday morning and was released, but Texas Rangers officials did not return calls from the associated press. Later on Tom Hicks, owner of the baseball club, issued a statement of apology on behalf of Francisco and the entire organization.
The spectator who was injured, an unidentified woman, was said to be pressing charges, according to the vice president of stadium operations in Oakland.
With two outs in the ninth inning, Rangers' Alfonso Soriano tied the game at five with his second homerun of the night. When Hank Blalock stepped to the plate seconds later, the Texas bench and bullpen cleared out. Texas relief pitcher Doug Brocail was seen screaming at a fan and had to be restrained, after the two exchanged insults. Other players also had to be held back.
Francisco then threw a chair into the right-field box seats. The chair hit one man on his head, bounced, and struck the woman on her left temple. Security ran to the scene and temporarily cleared out a small section of fans.
There was talk amongst the umpires and managers about suspending the game and declaring a forfeit. No ejections were made. The Rangers had requested extra security in the area before the game began, but, according to Oakland Athletics stadium manager David Rinetti, no request was made.
Play resumed 19 minutes later when security and managers regained control. The Athletics won 7-6 in the 10th inning.
McCann and MLB Ready For October
McCann Erickson advertising agency will launch the new Major League Baseball campaign later this week to gear fans up for the upcoming playoffs and World Series, according to an article on ADWeek.com.
The new campaign will be an extension of the "I Live For This" series with an added tagline, "8 teams, 1 champion." The main focus of the campaign is that the search for the World Series is anyone's contest, considering that the last two champions (Anaheim Angels and Florida Marlins) were wild-card teams.
The new four TV spots will consist of testimonials from high-profile athletes such as: Barry Bonds, Kerry Wood, Eric Gagne, and Jim Edmonds all talking about their desire to win. These spots will be interspersed with already existing "I Live For This" campaign testimonials from other players. The existing "I Live For This" spots will be dubbed with the new "8 teams, 1 champion" branding.
Major League Baseball has also marked October 4th as "Rally Monday" and will cleverly include fan rallies in each of the eight post-season club markets. The events will also feature live music, contests, free premiums, and celebrity appearances. Throughout October, Major League Baseball's budgeted spending is allotted to exceed $20 million.
The playoffs will begin on October 5th with the American and National League Division Series.
The new campaign will be an extension of the "I Live For This" series with an added tagline, "8 teams, 1 champion." The main focus of the campaign is that the search for the World Series is anyone's contest, considering that the last two champions (Anaheim Angels and Florida Marlins) were wild-card teams.
The new four TV spots will consist of testimonials from high-profile athletes such as: Barry Bonds, Kerry Wood, Eric Gagne, and Jim Edmonds all talking about their desire to win. These spots will be interspersed with already existing "I Live For This" campaign testimonials from other players. The existing "I Live For This" spots will be dubbed with the new "8 teams, 1 champion" branding.
Major League Baseball has also marked October 4th as "Rally Monday" and will cleverly include fan rallies in each of the eight post-season club markets. The events will also feature live music, contests, free premiums, and celebrity appearances. Throughout October, Major League Baseball's budgeted spending is allotted to exceed $20 million.
The playoffs will begin on October 5th with the American and National League Division Series.
Monday, September 13, 2004
Irish Stun Michigan
Notre Dame football woke up the echoes Saturday afternoon with a surprise upset against the top-ranked Michigan Wolverines in South Bend, Indiana.
The victory could not have come at a better time for Notre Dame coach Ty Willingham, who has been the target of much criticism while losing 10 of 15 since his miraculous 8-0 start in 2002, according to an AP article on ESPN.com. Now there is new hope for Irish fans after a third straight win over Michigan in South Bend.
There is also a new hope in the form of Notre Dame's new star freshman running back, Darius Walker. Walker, who did not even play a week ago in a devastating loss to Brigham Young, ran for 115 yards on 31 carries and two fourth-quarter touchdowns. He is the first freshman to run for 100 yards since Julius Jones mounted 146 yards against Navy in 1999.
"I didn't even know who that was running the ball," Michigan cornerback Marlin Jackson said. "He's a good player and he had a good game."
Notre Dame got its first victory over a top-ten team since defeating Michigan 25-23 two years ago in South Bend. Since then Notre Dame was 0-4 against top-ten teams, losing by a total 164-27.
The win also allowed Notre Dame to reclaim its title of winningest college football program, hurdling the Irish over Michigan for the best all-time winning percentage. The Wolverines moved past Notre Dame a week earlier with a victory over Miami of Ohio.
Notre Dame plays Michigan State next Saturday in another highly-contested rivalry. For now, Irish eyes are smiling.
The victory could not have come at a better time for Notre Dame coach Ty Willingham, who has been the target of much criticism while losing 10 of 15 since his miraculous 8-0 start in 2002, according to an AP article on ESPN.com. Now there is new hope for Irish fans after a third straight win over Michigan in South Bend.
There is also a new hope in the form of Notre Dame's new star freshman running back, Darius Walker. Walker, who did not even play a week ago in a devastating loss to Brigham Young, ran for 115 yards on 31 carries and two fourth-quarter touchdowns. He is the first freshman to run for 100 yards since Julius Jones mounted 146 yards against Navy in 1999.
"I didn't even know who that was running the ball," Michigan cornerback Marlin Jackson said. "He's a good player and he had a good game."
Notre Dame got its first victory over a top-ten team since defeating Michigan 25-23 two years ago in South Bend. Since then Notre Dame was 0-4 against top-ten teams, losing by a total 164-27.
The win also allowed Notre Dame to reclaim its title of winningest college football program, hurdling the Irish over Michigan for the best all-time winning percentage. The Wolverines moved past Notre Dame a week earlier with a victory over Miami of Ohio.
Notre Dame plays Michigan State next Saturday in another highly-contested rivalry. For now, Irish eyes are smiling.
Tuesday, September 07, 2004
Yankees Petition Commissioner For Forfeit
New York, NY--The Yankees asked the commissioner of Major League Baseball for a forfeit over the Tampa Bay Devil Rays after the team failed to arrive on time for the scheduled double-header because of travel problems due to Hurricane Frances. Bud Selig (commissioner) reported that such a request would never have been granted.
"Given the stage of the season we are in, and the exciting pennant races, it is critical that we do everything to decide the championship on the field," he said in a statement.
The Yankees were not so willing to see things the commissioner's way. In a statement issued by the team's president, Randy Levine, the Yankees felt that the Devil Rays had ample time to leave Florida and arrive on time for the games. "The rule states that if your team is here and ready to play, and the other team isn't here and not ready to play, there should be a forfeit, and we believe there should be a forfeit," Levine said.
However, because of the conditions of the hurricane, the Devil Rays' administration felt that it would be in the club's best interest to leave on Sunday night in order to stay with their families. This was a decision that Devil Rays general manager Chuck DeMar was willing to adhere to and "stick with."
The Devil Rays arrived at Yankee Stadium at 6:05 p.m. ready to play the Yankees. They lost 7-4.
Complete details of the Devil Ray's dilemma here
"Given the stage of the season we are in, and the exciting pennant races, it is critical that we do everything to decide the championship on the field," he said in a statement.
The Yankees were not so willing to see things the commissioner's way. In a statement issued by the team's president, Randy Levine, the Yankees felt that the Devil Rays had ample time to leave Florida and arrive on time for the games. "The rule states that if your team is here and ready to play, and the other team isn't here and not ready to play, there should be a forfeit, and we believe there should be a forfeit," Levine said.
However, because of the conditions of the hurricane, the Devil Rays' administration felt that it would be in the club's best interest to leave on Sunday night in order to stay with their families. This was a decision that Devil Rays general manager Chuck DeMar was willing to adhere to and "stick with."
The Devil Rays arrived at Yankee Stadium at 6:05 p.m. ready to play the Yankees. They lost 7-4.
Complete details of the Devil Ray's dilemma here
Monday, September 06, 2004
Prime Time Airs Next Sunday Afternoon
On Sunday September 12 Prime Time will make his return to the NFL, in Cleveland, Ohio. Deion Sanders, affectionately dubbing himself "Prime Time," will make his comeback to the NFL after his 3 year hiatus in retirement.
Though the season he not begun, Sanders has already made sure that the NFL knows he is here. Sunday night, during an interview with ESPN analyst, Michael Irvin, Sanders called out Jeff Garcia, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns and Sanders first opponent. He also wanted to tell all the receivers in the NFL that Prime Time is back.
In a spirited give and take session with Baltimore media, the newest Raven dared everyone to doubt that he has lost a step and stated that his primary reason for his comeback was the search for his third Super Bowl ring.
In his 13-year NFL career, Sanders recorded 48 interceptions while setting the record for touchdowns scored on returns. He earned Super Bowl rings with the San Francisco 49ers in 1994 and the Dallas Cowboys in 1995. However, his final season with the Redskins in 2000, left him with nagging injuries and limited playing time.
Sanders has resparked his work ethic and commitment in efforts to make his return. “If you can wake up everyday and go out there and work out, knowing that you have the chance to go out and play in the ultimate game, then it really gives you an incentive to do it," one of Deion's friends commented.
When a reporter hinted that Sanders was past his prime, his comments were nothing less than his famous sound bytes. “When did I stop being Prime Time? Did somebody give me that memo?" Sanders wants everyone to know that he has his edge back. Sunday he will have his chance to prove it.
View complete Prime Time story and Baltimore Ravens schedule
Though the season he not begun, Sanders has already made sure that the NFL knows he is here. Sunday night, during an interview with ESPN analyst, Michael Irvin, Sanders called out Jeff Garcia, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns and Sanders first opponent. He also wanted to tell all the receivers in the NFL that Prime Time is back.
In a spirited give and take session with Baltimore media, the newest Raven dared everyone to doubt that he has lost a step and stated that his primary reason for his comeback was the search for his third Super Bowl ring.
In his 13-year NFL career, Sanders recorded 48 interceptions while setting the record for touchdowns scored on returns. He earned Super Bowl rings with the San Francisco 49ers in 1994 and the Dallas Cowboys in 1995. However, his final season with the Redskins in 2000, left him with nagging injuries and limited playing time.
Sanders has resparked his work ethic and commitment in efforts to make his return. “If you can wake up everyday and go out there and work out, knowing that you have the chance to go out and play in the ultimate game, then it really gives you an incentive to do it," one of Deion's friends commented.
When a reporter hinted that Sanders was past his prime, his comments were nothing less than his famous sound bytes. “When did I stop being Prime Time? Did somebody give me that memo?" Sanders wants everyone to know that he has his edge back. Sunday he will have his chance to prove it.
View complete Prime Time story and Baltimore Ravens schedule
NFL Season Boosts Ad Sales
When the 2004-2005 NFL season kicks off this Thursday on ABC, each of the four major networks will have sold between 85-90 percent of their NFL ad inventory, according to ADWeek.
Ed Erhardt, president of ESPN/ABC Customer Marketing and Sports Sales confirmed that only a handful of units are left in each Monday Night Football game. The spare units have been reserved for movie studios and possible deficiencies. Monday Night Football is about 90 percent sold, CBS and Fox reported being at 85 percent sold, and ESPN is right behind.
Although no rates have been confirmed by the networks, advertisers are paying between $325,000 and $350,000 per 30-second spot on Monday Night Football. CBS and Fox are currently pulling in $250,000 and $300,000, while ESPN's rates range between $100,000 and $190,000. Advertisers feel that sports programming is a very safe environment in today's marketplace, according to Erhardt.
Visa will open the NFL season with its "Get Ready for the Game" campaign on September 9. The ads will show various, strange, pregame rituals of players and fans. In addition, Cingular Wireless will air December 11 on Monday Night Football for the first time with its "Cingular Wireless All-American Team" campaign.
CBS Sports sales president, John Bogusz, indicated that some advertisers shifted money from other prime-time telecasts to the NFL budget. "We get a solid 10 rating every Sunday, with great demos," explained Bogusz. "And the ratings are more stable."
Ed Erhardt, president of ESPN/ABC Customer Marketing and Sports Sales confirmed that only a handful of units are left in each Monday Night Football game. The spare units have been reserved for movie studios and possible deficiencies. Monday Night Football is about 90 percent sold, CBS and Fox reported being at 85 percent sold, and ESPN is right behind.
Although no rates have been confirmed by the networks, advertisers are paying between $325,000 and $350,000 per 30-second spot on Monday Night Football. CBS and Fox are currently pulling in $250,000 and $300,000, while ESPN's rates range between $100,000 and $190,000. Advertisers feel that sports programming is a very safe environment in today's marketplace, according to Erhardt.
Visa will open the NFL season with its "Get Ready for the Game" campaign on September 9. The ads will show various, strange, pregame rituals of players and fans. In addition, Cingular Wireless will air December 11 on Monday Night Football for the first time with its "Cingular Wireless All-American Team" campaign.
CBS Sports sales president, John Bogusz, indicated that some advertisers shifted money from other prime-time telecasts to the NFL budget. "We get a solid 10 rating every Sunday, with great demos," explained Bogusz. "And the ratings are more stable."
Friday, September 03, 2004
Texas Mascot Says Farewell After 16 Seasons
Bevo XIII, the University of Texas steer mascot, will be retired to make way for a new longhorn at Saturday's game against North Texas. Pregame and halftime ceremonies will usher in a new Bevo, a 2-year old weighing in at around 1,300 pounds.
The longest tenured mascot at the university has seen a record of 124-67-2, more victories than any other Bevo.
According to the Silver Spurs, the Longhorn "represents courage, fighting ability, nerve, lust of combat, efficiency in deadly encounters and the holy spirit of 'Never Say Die.'" Bevo I made his first appearance on the field of the Texas-Texas A&M game in 1916.
Bevo XIII has certainly seen his share of ups and downs in Texas football, with tenure under head coaches Dave McWilliams, John Mackovic, and Mack Brown. He has witnessed conference titles and embarrassing bowl losses. In the 1996 Big 12 title game in St. Louis, Bevo XIII left an unforgettable memory for many Longhorn fans. "After Texas beat Nebraska 37-27, Bevo's handlers were walking him out of the stadium when nature called. With perfect timing, he left his mark squarely on the Cornhuskers' logo."
To tribute his many years of service to Texas, the Silver Spurs have set up an endowment to benefit Bevo's future care, the university's Neighborhood Longhorns Program and student scholarships.
The longest tenured mascot at the university has seen a record of 124-67-2, more victories than any other Bevo.
According to the Silver Spurs, the Longhorn "represents courage, fighting ability, nerve, lust of combat, efficiency in deadly encounters and the holy spirit of 'Never Say Die.'" Bevo I made his first appearance on the field of the Texas-Texas A&M game in 1916.
Bevo XIII has certainly seen his share of ups and downs in Texas football, with tenure under head coaches Dave McWilliams, John Mackovic, and Mack Brown. He has witnessed conference titles and embarrassing bowl losses. In the 1996 Big 12 title game in St. Louis, Bevo XIII left an unforgettable memory for many Longhorn fans. "After Texas beat Nebraska 37-27, Bevo's handlers were walking him out of the stadium when nature called. With perfect timing, he left his mark squarely on the Cornhuskers' logo."
To tribute his many years of service to Texas, the Silver Spurs have set up an endowment to benefit Bevo's future care, the university's Neighborhood Longhorns Program and student scholarships.
Red Sox Sweep Angels
The Boston Red Sox finished their sweep of the Anaheim Angels on Thursday night, with a 4-3 victory at Fenway Park. With this victory, the Sox improve to nine straight wins, helping to put some distance between them and the other AL wild-card contenders.
"This is a special run that we are going on," Boston ace Derek Lowe said. "Especially the time of year, we are getting clutch hits, the defense was phenomenal. We're having fun." Clutch is a good word. Boston as won its last ten games at Fenway Park and is 7-0 on its 10-game homestand. The Sox have swept their last three series at home.
The true story is to see how long this streak can continue against the Red Sox remaining opponents. Boston still has a series with AL wild-card contender Texas Rangers, AL West-leading Oakland Athletics, and two series with AL East rival New York Yankees. Every game is crucial for the final race into the playoffs in October.
View complete coverage of Red Sox series against Anaheim.
"This is a special run that we are going on," Boston ace Derek Lowe said. "Especially the time of year, we are getting clutch hits, the defense was phenomenal. We're having fun." Clutch is a good word. Boston as won its last ten games at Fenway Park and is 7-0 on its 10-game homestand. The Sox have swept their last three series at home.
The true story is to see how long this streak can continue against the Red Sox remaining opponents. Boston still has a series with AL wild-card contender Texas Rangers, AL West-leading Oakland Athletics, and two series with AL East rival New York Yankees. Every game is crucial for the final race into the playoffs in October.
View complete coverage of Red Sox series against Anaheim.
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