...Shawne Merriman, the Chargers Pro Bowl linebacker, is facing possible season-ending surgery for both ligament and cartilage damage, and has seen 3-out-of-town doctors in hopes of gathering as much information as possible. Merriman, who went from San Diego, to Mobile, to New York and to Miami, has been told he has a torn PCL-ligament, a stretched ACL, and cartilage problems. The ligament damage may been caused when he was hit on the knee in the lst week of camp workouts in July. The cartilage problems date back to surgery 5-months ago, and 2-crushing hits he took in retaliation for cheapshots in a game last year against Tennessee..
Merriman's problems also include his off the field deals, and impending free-agency. Agent Tom Condon is reportedly miffed the Chargers have not discussed a contract extension; the linebacker's deal expires after the 2009-season. And GM-AJ Smith is miffed that Merriman committed to do a Thursday nite TV-show in LA for Fox; coach Norv Turner signed off on the TV-deal. Smith zinged the linebacker saying Merriman needs to realize his on the field success allows him to have off the field opportunities, indicating if Merriman is no longer the same player on the field, his off-field deals will go away. The Bolts are facing the opening of the season missing 2-of their top 3-linebackers with the Merriman surgery and Steven Cooper's suspension.
...Chargers left tackle Marcus McNeil has now missed 3-weeks of workouts, with neck stinger problems that are not going away.
...The Chargers took a couple of hits across the country today. The Associated Press wrote today the Bolts should stop talking about being a Super Bowl team until they prove they can get to the game.
...ESPN took a shot at quarterback Philip Rivers, rating him only as the 14th best QB in the NFL, despite a (23-9) record as a starter. Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Tony Romo and Drew Brees were ranked 1-thru-4. Jeff Garcia, Eli Manning and Dererk Anderson were ranked ahead of Rivers.
...Angry Raiders coach Lane Kiffen continued his criticism of his team, saying he is going to bench receiver Javon Walker and his 11-million dollar signing bonus, if he keeps dropping passes.
...Arizona Cardinals receiver Anquan Bolden says Coach Ken Whisenhunt stepped over the boundary line by getting involved and taking sides in the contract dispute. Bolden, making 2-million a year, wants money equal to Larry Fitzgerald's 10-million a year package.
...Buffalo Pro Bowl right tackle Jason Peters remains out of camp, day 29-in a bitter holdout.
...Jacksonville's lst round pick Derrick Harvey, the only unsigned pick in the NFL, is in Day 28-of his holdout.
...Houston fullback Jameel Cook has been arrested on possession of marijuana; 2-bags were found in his Mercedes at a traffic stop.
...On the injury front:
...The St-Louis Rams confirmed Pro Bowl tackle Orlando Pace has reinjured the shoulder that was operated on last year when he missed the entire season.
...The Dallas Cowboys have lost another linebacker Anthony Spencer will miss 4-weeks with knee surgery; they had already lost starter Kevin Burnett for 5-weeks with knee surgery.
...The Redskins have lost 2-more linebackers, Marcus Washington with hip problems and Matt Sinclair with back issues.
...Minnesota receiver Stanley Rice has been hospitalized with a viral infection.
...Kansas City has lost receiver Will Franklin with a strained knee.
...Detroit backup QBj-Drew Stanton will miss a month with a sprained thumb.
...On the roster front:
...The New England Patriots have signed Baltimore Ravens offensive center Mike Flynn.
...The Bengals have released wide receiver Marcus Maxwell.
...The NFL continues to mourn the death of Union Chief and Raiders Hall of Famer Gene Upshaw. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called Upshaw a man of dignity, pride and conviction. Paul Tagliabue said Upshaw was not a sellout to his players, but a partner with the NFL. Denver owner Pat Bolen called him a complete professional. Agent Ralph Cindrich called his passing a terrible tragic loss in leadership. Art Shell called him a true pioneer amongst blacks. Baseball Union chief Donald Fehr said he will miss the weekly exchange of ideas he had with Upshaw. NBA Chief Billy Hunter called it a terrible loss of leadership for players.
...Not everyone was kind. Joe DeLamielleure, who feuded with him about retired players care, called him a brother gone astray. Crippled Tampa Bay tackle David Pear said he turned his backs on his brethren by not helping retired players. Conrad Dobler questioned paying him 4-million a year, and spending 7-million on legal fees to fight the retired players. Homeless Viking Brent Boyd said Upshaw refused to lift a finger for hurting old time players. Sam Huff remained critical in death, saying it was Upshaw's responsibility to take care of players who helped make the NFL a success. Lawyer Joe Acho called him a mean spirited leader.
...NBC-TV is refusing comment that Tiki Barber, the former NBA player used the 'C' word when describing working with a female sports anchor at the Olympics.
...NFL-preseason games are on tap tonite; struggling Green Bay QB-Aaron Rogers takes the Packers into Denver.
...Brett Favre and the Jets meet the Giants tomorrow nite at the Meadowlands.
...The Raiders, promising to open up the passing game, play Arizona tomorrow.
(College Football)
...San Diego State, banged up in the offensive line, has decided to cancel their Saturday scrimmage and will have a short walkthru instead as they begin preparing for their opener against Cal Poly.
...USC's two young quarterbacks put on a show last nite in the Trojans scrimmage. Mitch Mustain and Aaron Corp went (18-24) for 177-yards.
...UCLA says freshman receiver Nelson Rosario and running back Aundrey Dean may both start against Tennessee a week from Monday.
...In other PAC-10 notes:
...The Oregon Ducks have lost starting quarterback Nate Costa with a sprained knee. Justin Roper will start at QB-next week.
...Oregon State freshman Quizz Rogers scored on a 69-yard TD pass and a 64-TD run last nite in a Beavers scrimmage.
...Washington State star running back Dwight Tardy has reinjured a knee that had surgery at the end of last year.
...Washington has named freshman Chris Polk as their starting running back.
...Arizona State star receiver Chris McGaha has reinjured a toe in rehab; he has been out 10-days.
...Cal has named Kevin Riley to start at QB-ahead of veteran Nate Longshore.
(Baseball)
...The New York Post says the Mets are expressing interest in a possible waiver deal for Padres closer Trevor Hoffman, but are refusing to give up reliever Pedro Feliciano in the deal.
...The (48-79) Padres open a weekend series in San Francisco tonite with (13-3) Tim Lincecum starting against Cha Saeng Baek.
...The Padres pitching staff is made up of ace Jake Peavy-Heath Bell-Hoffman, and 7-players dumped from other teams.
...The Dodgers, 2-games out of first place, have Greg Maddux starting against the homer-happy Phillies. Jeff Kent is hitting .429 since the arrival of Manny Ramirez, who is hitting .406.
... The Dodgers begin a 10-game road trip tonite. The Blue play 23-of their final 35 on the road. 28-of those final 35 are against the worst teams in the National League.
...The Angels, who have dropped 6-of-8, host Minnesota again tonite with Joe Saunders shooting for his 15th win of the year. The surging Twins have won 11-of-14.
...Arizona, winners of 8-of-10, host fading Florida tonite with Randy Johnson on the mound.
...The White Sox, a half game up on Minnesota, host (77-49) Tampa Bay.
...The Mets, with a 2-and-a half lead on the Phillies, have won 9-of-10, and host Houston tonite.
...Brandon Webb, ace of Arizona's pitching staff, is now (19-4). Cliff Lee of the Indians is now (18-2).
...On the injury front:
...Boston"s Bartolo Colon, battling back problems, threw 4-no hit innings last nite on a rehab start.
...Atlanta lefthander Tom Glavine has had minor elbow and shoulder scope surgery, and will be ready in the spring.
...Marlins star shortstop Hanley Ramirez is out with a sprained thumb.
(Olympics)
...The age-scandal story at the Olympics is growing. The AP is reporting the IOC has been given documents dating from 2005-05-06 listing the ages of 5-Chinese gymnasts as 12-13 and 14-year olds, and that forged passports may have been rewritten last June in 2007-trying to show the gymnasts were now 16-years of age. Computer records have also surfaced saying the gymnasts were born in 1992, not 1994 as the new passports read.
...The US-NBA team is headed to the Gold Medal game on Friday against Spain. Team USA jumped to a 21-4 lead and buried Argentina today after Manu Ginobli went out with a sprained ankle in the lst quarter. The US went on to a 101-81 win.
...In baseball, San Diego State ace Stephen Strasburg gave up 3-runs and 6-hits in only 4-innings, and Cuba hit 4-homers today, beating the US 10-2 in a semi-final game. Cuba will face (9-0) South Korea in the title game.
...Bryan Clay of UCLA won the 10-event Gold in the Decathalon.
...The US completed the sweep in Mens Volleyball bombing Brazil.
...In track, Usain Bolt completed his Gold Rush run today, as the Jamaican 400-meter relay team won by nearly a full second over Trinidad-Tobago, the biggest blowout win since 1936. Bolt ran 3-races, set 3-world records, got 3-Gold medals.
...The Jamaican women dropped the baton and failed to finish the Womens 400-relay.
...The US track team, which went (0-6) in sprint events, and dropped batons in both men's and women's relays, fly home tonite. Doug Logan, the new CEO of US Track & Field, promised a major overhaul of the sport.
(General)
...A busy weekend in auto racing.
...NASCAR heads to the short-banked track in Tennessee, for tomorrow nights Bristol 500, with 8-win Kyle Busch and 5-win Carl Busch heading the field..
...Kimi Raikkonen set a track record qualifying for the pole in the Euro Grand Prix in Spain.
...The IRL runs the Sonoma Grand Prix this weekend in Indy car racing, chasing Scott Dixon, who has 6-wins this year.
...In horse racing, Da'Tara, the Belmont Stakes winner, heads the field for the 139th Travers Stakes at Saratoga.
...11-horses go to post Sunday in the 1-million Pacific Classic at Delmar, with red-hot jockey Garrett Gomes on board favorite Go Between..
...Gene Upshaw, who came from the small college ranks to become a Hall of Fame guard, and who took the NFL Union from a nickel and dime operation to taking home 60-percent of the NFL's revenues, has passed away at the age of 63, this morning, in Lake Tahoe, of pancreatic cancer. Upshaw reportedly was told his case was 'terminal' this past Sunday morning after being taken to the hospital for the first time.
...The legendary Raiders lineman, was a lst round draft pick as a center out of Texas A&I, was switched to guard, and became a legend playing in between Jim Otto and Art Shell. He went to law school in the off-season, and became Executive Director of the NFL Union during the nasty 1987-players strike, spanning 23-years as Union chief after his 15-year playing career.
...Upshaw fought bitterly for free-agency, saying he was going to end the "Plantation Mentality" that existed amongst owners. The Union won 20-different lawsuits over free-agency. He crafted the NFL salary cap, that has started at 31-million dollars and has grown to 116-million this year.
...He also created a revenue sharing plan for small market teams, and kept labor peace from 1991-thru today. The 1-blight on his record was his refusal to help fund health care for oldtime pre-pension players and his battle with the Gridiron Greats, who demanded Union profits be funneled back to retirement health care.
...NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Upshaw ran the Union with 'dignity-pride-conviction and respect.'. A solemn Raiders owner Al Davis said Upshaw was a 'fabric of the Raiders mystique and legacy'.
...A sad day in the Redskins camp. The 31-year old daughter of longtime coach Joe Bugel, Holly, has passed away from cancer.
...Shawne Merriman, the Chargers top linebacker, may be facing a 2nd knee surgery for cartilage problems and a possible 2nd injury a bone bruise. He flew back from Birmingham, Alabama, where surgery has been recommended. He has been out with increasing pain from surgery 5-months ago, and indicated there may be a 2nd injury, a bone bruise, after getting hit on the knee with a helmet in practice weeks ago.
...1-day after extensive workouts on the field, Antonio Gates is off the field for therapy for stiffness and pain his toe. Left tackle Marcus McNeil will not practice with on-going neck stinger issues; receiver Vincent Jackson is sitting with on-going hamstring issues.
...The Eagles have lost receiver Kevin Curtis for 8-weeks with sports hernia surgery.
...Kansas City has lost starting linebacker Demorrio Williams with a broken hand; they are already without linebackers Donnie Edwards and Nap Harris with injuries.
...Miami is without 2-starting linebackers, Joey Porter with back problems, and Charley Anderson with hamstring issues.
...The Cleveland Browns, who lost 3-players with injuries in their Monday nite loss to the Giants, have now lost running back Jamal Lewis with a hamstring and Willie McGinest with a groin injury. They had already lost QB-Derrick Anderson with a concussion and kick return star Josh Cribbs with an ankle.
...Cincinnati lost 2-more receivers, Andre Caldwell with a sprained foot and Marcus Maxwell with a shin injury. The Bengals still don't have Chad Johnson and TJ Houshmanzadeh back yet either.
...The Giants, with an ailing Plax Burress and Amani Toomer, practiced today without Steve Smith and Mario Manningham.
...Detroit backup QB-Drew Stanton went down with a thumb injury today.
...Denver's 5-time Pro Bowl center Tom Nalen needs more knee surgery and will not start the season with them.
...The Dallas Cowboys have named Pac Man Jones as a starting cornerback.
...Central Florida rookie Kevin Smith, a lst round pick in Detroit, was elevated to starting running back today.
...Alex Smith, whom the 49ers gave a 24-million dollar signing bonus too, will be their number 2-quarterback to start the season. He has gone thru 4-offensive coordinators in 4-years
...Raiders coach Lane Kiffin refused to backoff on his front-office criticism; he said the team has too many borderline players on the roster; has no guts to cut players; and has too many players in the trainers room and not on the field.
...Trouble in Cincinnati; reports that Coach Marvin Lewis is upset owner Mike Brown has forced him to put troubled receiver Chris Henry back on the roster.
...Steven Jackson ended his 27-day holdout with the Rams, signing a 6-year deal with a 17-million bonus.
...The NFL has fined Green Bay linebacker Nick Barnett 1-game check, 155-thousand dollars, for a bar fite last February.
(College Football)
...Dan Fouts, bounced off Pac-10 broadcasts by ABC-TV, has been hired to do some NFL games with CBS.
...San Diego State has lost offensive tackle Taylor Wallace, the Utah State-El Camino JUCO transfer; he will not play this year with off the field problems. The Aztecs prior had lost Louisville transfer tackle CJ Millbaugh who was not accepted because of academic issues. Earlier this week, they lost starting left tackle Mike Matuma with foot surgery.
...UCLA says 8-freshman will play this fall, including Oceanside's top recruit Nelson Rosario.
...USC quarterback Mark Sanchez went thru 7-on-7 passing drills last nite with no problems with that kneecap.
...The NCAA today banned Arizona State assistant Grady Stretz from all recruiting and placed him on probation for his role in an academic fraud scandal involving JUCO transfers at New Mexico.
...The NCAA today banned all horse collar tackles this year, and banned hi-low chop blocks, not only at the line of scrimmage, but also down the field.
...The NCAA says it will reopen the appeals case of Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Ben Mauck, and will review medical evidence that might give him a 6th year of eligibility. He missed 2-years at Wake Forest with shoulder and broken arm problems.
...8-Georiga Southern players have been suspended for their season opening game against Georgia because of curfew problems.
(Baseball)
...The woeful Padres (48-78) face the Arizona Diamondbacks tonite and (18-4) ace Brandon Webb. The Friars are (17-39) since mid-June.
...Controversy is growing around the Padres pitching staff, which now features ace Jake Peavy, and a rotation made up on Chad Reinek, Cha Baek and Josh Banks. The staff is made up of Peavy, reliever Heath Bell, future Hall of Famer Trevor Hoffman, and 7-pitchers, who were dumped by other clubs.
...Rumors out of New York indicate the Mets might be interested in talking about a deal for Trevor Hoffman; they would have to acquire him to get him on their playoff roster by August 31st.
...The Dodgers, who fell 2-games behind Colorado after committing 4-errors last nite, won today. James Loney homered to back Derek Lowe's pitching in a win over Colorado. .
...Garrett Anderson puts a 23-game hitting streak on the line tonite as the Angels open a homestand with the Minnesota Twins. The Halos have lost 5-of-their last 6-games. John Lackey (10-2) starts tonite at Angels Stadium.
...The battered Yankees say Carl Pavano will start Saturday at Baltimore. Pavano has had 5-different injuries since signing a 40-million dollar free-agent contract four years ago. He has won 5-games in 4-years.
...The Mets have signed ex-Tampa Bay reliever Al Reyes.
...The Pirates have traded power hitting infielder Jose Bautista to Toronto for minor leaguers.
...The Houston Astros have claimed Giants 3rd baseman Jose Castillo.
...The Red Sox have signed ex-Reds free-agent catcher Dave Ross, shipping (2-9) pitcher Clay Buchholz to Pawtucket.
...Tom Glavine got good news; the Braves lefthander does not need elbow surgery for a strained tendon.
...Kansas City outfielder Mitch Maier suffered multiple facial fractures when beaned in the face last nite by a Cleveland hurler.
...St-Louis pitcher Kyle Lohse has been slapped with a 5-game suspension for throwing at Cincinnati pitcher Ed Volquez.
...The Umpires Association has now agreed to the Instant Replay proposal. 3-Umps, including the Umpire in Chief, will have access to review video.
(Basketball)
...The Dallas Mavericks re-signed forward Devean George to a 2-year deal.
...The New York Knicks have hired ex-Orlando GM-John Gabriel as Director of Scouting working under Donnie Walsh.
(Hockey)
...Toronto Maple Leafs center Mark Bell has been released after serving 3-months on a prison work farm for multiple DUIs. He called it an eye opener to be around drug dealers-killers and wife beaters.
...Mark Crawford, the ex-Kings coach, who was the Coach of the Vancouver Canucks, when Todd Bertuzzi broke the neck of Colorado's Steve Moore in a fight in a game, in a deposition, said the was trying to get Bertuzzi off the ice in a line change, when Bertuzzi jumped Moore in a fight. Bertuzzi charged Crawford, in a between period speech to his team, told Vancouver players Moore 'had to pay a price' for injuring a Canucks player with a leg whip check earlier in the season. Crawford said he never ordered the attack.
(General)
...IOC chief Juan Rogge today criticized Jamaican Gold Medal star Usain Bolt for showboating and taunting in winning the 100-meter race, saying the Olympics should be about sportsmanship. Rogge refused to answer questions why the IOC refused to open a probe of the 3-underage Chinese gymnasts who won Gold Medals.
...The New York Times and Reuters are reporting that Bolt, who set world record in the 100-and-200, has been drug tested 11-times this year and passed 4-tests since July 11th.
...Unbeaten Team USA plays Manu Ginobli and Argentina tonite in the basketball semi-finals.
...The devastating week for US Track & Field continued today in Beijing.
...Tyson Gay dropped the baton in the 400-meter relay wiping out their chances today, as they finished 8th.
...Lauryn Williams dropped the hand off from Torri Edwards and the US womens team did not even finish the race.
...The US went 1-2 in the Mens 400-meters with LaShawn Merritt getting the gold, beating a tired Jeremy Warriner.
...Dayron Robles won the Mens 110-Hurdles with Americans David Payne and David Oliver finishing 2-3.
...Allyson Felix got a 2nd place Silver in the womens 200-meter.
...Misty May Treanor and Kerri Walsh won their 108th match in a row as the US got Gold beating China in Volleyball.
...An upset in Womens softball. The US saw its 22-game win streak snapped, losing the Gold Medal game to Japan. They had the bases loaded twice but could not score.
...Steven Strasburg, San Diego State's ace, starts later tonite for Team USA against Cuba in the semi-finals of baseball. Japan meets South Korea is the other semi.
...A big day in womens soccer. Hope Solo, the controversial goalie, made 6-point blank saves, as the US beat Brazil 1-0 in extra time to get the Gold. Solo was the goalie who was kicked off the US-World Cup team.
...NASCAR says it decided not to expel Joe Gibbs Racing and his 2-Toyota teams from the Nationwide series, because it was the lst time in 17-years a Gibbs team had been involved in any cheating incidents. His team lost 600-points, was fined 100-thousand dollars and 7-crew members were suspended for the rest of the year for cheating during Dyno-Chassis testing at Michigan last weekend.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008, 02:45 PM PST [General]
(Olympics)
...Usain Bolt. Insane speed. No showboating, just sizzling speed. The Jamaican track star became the lst track star to set world records in both the 100-and-200 meter events, winning the Gold this morning, torching the field. Bolt, the 6-5 sprinter, who ran a 9.69-time in the 100-over the weekend, today ran a 19.30-clocking in the 200-meter event. He became the 9th sprinter to double winning the gold in both events, dating back from Jesse Owens to Carl Lewis, but was the lst ever to set world marks in both events. His margin of victory 66/100th of a second was also a record.
...There was controversy. IOC officials disqualified Dutch runner Churn Martina and American Wallace Spearmon for stepping out of their lanes. Shawn Crawford and Walter Dix were given 2nd and 3rd place medals.
...The biggest discussion after the Bolt win was his accomplishment, setting 2-records and running 6-races a bigger achievement than Michael Phelps 8-Gold's and 17-races in 8-days.
...Bernard Lagat, the Washington State distance runner, who did not get to the finals in the 1500, fought thru the pollution today to win his heat to move to the finals of the 5000-event.
...Kobe Bryant had his best game, 25-points, as Team USA steamrolled Australia 115-85 to move to the semi-finals with Argentina and Manu Ginobli on Friday nite.
...The US Baseball team went 11-innings to beat Japan 4-2 using the weird extra innings rule to win. In the 11th, the US would start the inning with 2-men on base, and could bat their lineup anyway they wished. The US plays Cuba in a semi-final game on Friday, while Japan takes on unbeaten South Korea in the other semi.
...The US women's softball team made it 22-wins in a row, getting 4 in the 9th to beat Japan.
...The US means volley ball team beat Serbia and will face Russia in the semi-finals on Friday.
..A tough day in wrestling. Hours after Henry Cujado won a gold in free-style, his teammate, Missouri star Ben Askren was beaten in in 2-straight matches. And then hi-school star Jake Deitchler informed the University of Minnesota he will not wrestle in college, and instead will move to Colorado Springs to train fulltime in Greco-Roman wrestling.
...There was huge controversy in the streets of Beijing today.
...The New York Times is reporting that China made 2000-people, who took part in opening ceremonies, work 16-hours a day in oppressive heat for 3-months to practice their routines. The paper said those in the judo demonstrations suffered heat stroke, severe injuries, a fractured skull and 1-athlete was paralyzed by the intense training. They were fed just 2-times per day, and forced to live in dirty Army barracks, over the 3-month period and were paid just 5-dollars a day.
...Reuters reported yesterday the Chinese used 300-thousand forced laborers to build the Olympic facilities, and only 4-workers were given tickets to any Olympic events.
.
...The New York Daily News reported that the US Olympic Cycling team is enraged at the US Committee, for forcing them to apologize for wearing team-issued pollution masks in public. 5-cyclists became ill with sore throats, eye infections and colds within 36-hours of arrival, and yet they were criticized by Peter Ueberroth for wearing the masks in public, insulting the Chinese.
...Amnesty International reported today that 1015-dissidents, who were planning protests the opening week of the ceremonies, have disappeared, and may have been sent to work camps last week.
...Japanese networks reported that China turned down all 77-applications from groups wanting to protest at the Olympics, under a 'Wee no evil-hear no evil-there must be no evil' public stance in Beijing.
...The Paris edition of the Herald Tribune questioned why the IOC has refused to investigate information that at least 3-Gold Medal Chinese gymnasts are 12-or-13 years old, direct violations of the age rule in that sport.
(Football)
...The San Diego Chargers, dealing with injuries to 7-different players, say Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman is in Birmingham today meeting with specialist Dr-James Andrews, re-examining an ailing knee that has not responded to cartilage surgery. They were trying to determine if he has another piece of loose cartilage in the knee or whether he needs rest because of irritation.
...Antonio Gates will open the season on the active roster; the Bolts took him off PUP-last nite and he practiced with the team.
...Raiders corner DeAngelo Hall is out with ligament damage in his hand; he may start the season wearing a cast.
...Tampa Bay guard Davis Joseph has undergone surgery for a broken foot.
...Cleveland has lost Pro Bowl kick return man Josh Cribbs for the rest of camp with a hi-ankle sprain.
...Miami has lost linebacker Joey Porter with a sprained back and strained knee.
...Buffalo starting QB-Trent Edwards is out with a bruised quad.
...Seattle quarterback Matt Hassleback has shutdown workouts again with stiff back.
...The New England Patriots have more line problems; Billy Yates has a pinched nerve in his neck. QB-Matt Gutierrez is out with shoulder woes.
...Dallas is shutting down safety Roy Williams for a week with knee tendonitis.
...Chicago has lost pass rusher Mark Anderson with thumb surgery.
...The NFL has suspended former Tampa Bay offensive tackle Luke Pettigout for 4-games for steroid violations.
...Miami has traded cornerback Travis Daniels to Cleveland for a draft pick; he started for a year and a half.
...The Tennessee Titans have waived punter Josh Miller.
...6-NFL teams have contacted just released Atlanta Falcons receiver Joe Horn.
...Arizona receiver Anquan Bolden is threatening to walkout on the team because they will not upgrade is 2-million a year contract.
(College Football)
...San Diego State left tackle Mike Matamua will have season ending foot surgery on Friday. Aztecs defensive tackle Neil Spencer is gone for the year with shoulder surgery.
...UCLA's offensive line woes grew to crisis status today; starting guard Micah Kia is out with a broken hand, and tackle Jeff Baca is having an MRI on a knee injury. It means the Bruins are without 6-offensive lineman.
...USC running back CJ Gable is out with a sprained hip; star tailback Joe McKnight is still battling elbow problems.
...The NCAA nailed New Mexico's football program, stripping them of 5-football scholarships and putting them on 3-years probation for academic fraud involving 3-JUCO transfers and 3-former assistant coaches in the Lobo program.
(Baseball)
...The Padres, now 29-games under 500, and losers of 5-of-7, have Jake Peavy on the mound against 13-game Dan Haren.
...Chase Headley is hot, hitting .378 over a 12-game hitting streak.
...The Dodgers, just 1-game back, faces Colorado again tonite, with Chad Billingsley starting against Jeff Francis. Jeff Kent is hitting .489 since moving to the number 3-spot.
...The Angels, who appear gassed, will try to break a 5-game losing streak tonite, facing Tampa Bay again. The Rays are (6-2) vs the Halos this season, and Tampa has now won 9-of-11 and is a baseball best (77-48) this year.
...Umpires are feuding with the Commissioner's office over the mechanics of instant replay. They are upset that only the Umpire in Chief can review the calls; they are upset that a Central Video office in New York will also look at the plays, and that the replay room will be off the field.
...On the injury front:
...The end of the season for the New York Mets; Billy Wagner may have torn an elbow tendon.
...Boston starter Josh Beckett is out of the rotation with numbness in his pitching hand.
...Baltimore has put pitcher George Sherrill on the DL with a sore shoulder.
...The Reds have lost starter Matt Belisle with a torn knee ligament.
...The Yankees have activated .323-hitting outfielder Hidecki Matsui, who has been out since June with knee problems.
...Legendary Red Sox slugger Carl Yastrzemski is in stable condition after triple-bypass heart surgery.
(Basketball)
...The Phoenix Suns have lost 3-point shooter Gordon Giricek; he has signed to play in Turkey, the 14th NBA player to go abroad this year.
...Oklahoma City, the former Supersonics franchise, today waived 3-point shooter Donyell Marshall.
...1-of Cal Poly's top recruits has been arrested for taking part in an armed robbery of a bank in Wisconsin; Anthony Dilberto and a 16-year old were picked up in Minnetonka, Minnesota.
(Hockey)
...The Philadelphia Flyers, over the NHL salary cap at 56-million dollars in payroll, are trying to move players to open space to sign Toronto Maple Leafs captain Mats Sundin.
(General)
...NASCAR crushed Joe Gibbs Racing today, suspending 7-crew members, 2-crew chiefs, fining them 100-thousand dollars and stripping his 2-Toyota teams of 600-owners and drivers points for cheating on horsepower on the Nationwide circuit. Gibbs suspended the crew chiefs of Tony Stewart and Joey Logano's car for the year too.
...The son of former NASCAR driver Morgan Sheppard has plead guilty to 5-counts of having sex with 15 and 16-year old girls and faces prison time and 5-years probation.
...Veteran tennis star Lleyton Hewitt will miss 3-months of action, having hip surgery.
...Bruce Arena, the new Coach-GM of the troubled LA Galaxy began a housecleaning today, trading goal scorer Carlos Ruiz to Toronto FC and signing former US World Cup veteran Eddie Lewis.
...The Padres have moved into lst place, in salary dumps, by dealing 42-year old pitcher Greg Maddux to the Dodgers for two minor leaguers to be named later. San Diego rids itself of 3-million dollars owed the righthander, who was (6-9) with a 3.99-ERA this year, but pitched with no run support. He has 353-career wins. By virtue of dealing away Maddux-Randy Wolfe-and Tony Clarke, the Padres saved themselves nearly 11-million dollars on remaining salaries this year.
...The last place Padres face the lst place Arizona Diamondbacks tonite. The Friars are (48-76), while the D-Backs are (64-60) and tied with the Dodgers for lst place.
...Reports out of Houston are that Padres owner John Moores has begun moving his corporate officers to that Texas city as part of his divorce settlement. Betsy Moores has confirmed she made a 30-million dollar cash-call contribution to the team at mid-season, amidst reports she will take over operation of the team when the divorce is settled.
...The Dodgers open a series with staggering Colorado tonite. Hiroki Kuroda faces Ubaldo Jiminez tonite at Chavez Ravine.
...Controversy in the LA clubhouse. Opinionated 2nd baseman Jeff Kent ripped Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully, saying he talks to much and never comes in the clubhouse or talks to the players.
...The Angels try to snap a 4-game losing streak tonite in Tampa Bay with 13-game winner Erwin Santana goings against James Shields. Tampa Bay is (46-17) at Tropicana Field, and have beaten the Angels 5-of-7 games this season. Winds of 45-to-60mph and 7-inches of rain from Tropical storm Fay are still pelting the Suncoast area. Only 15-thousand showed up last nite for the matchup of the 2-best teams in the American League.
...The Boston Red Sox open a 9-game road trip tonite in Baltimore. The Yankees open a 6-game trip in Toronto, facing 16-of-the next 22 on the road.
...Legendary Red Sox star Carl Yastrezemski was rushed to a Boston hospital today with heart problems. The 18-time All Star is 68.
...Tampa Bay outfielder BJ Upton is facing more discipline for getting thrown out on the bases,.loafing on a double last nite. He was benched 3-times last week for failing to run out hits.
...The Texas Rangers have lost hot-hitting infielder Ian Kinsler for the rest of the year with possible hernia surgery; he has 165-hits and 102 RBIs this year.
...Minnesota shortstop Adam Everett is being examined for a broken hand.
...Atlanta pitching legend Tom Glavine will be examined in Birmingham tomorrow for possible elbow tendon surgery.
...CC Sabathia continues his dazzling pitching in Milwaukee; he is now (8-0) with a 1.60-ERA; he threw 130-pitches last nite.
...The Kansas City Royals have signed ex-Colorado righthander Kip Wells.
(Football)
...The San Diego Chargers, with 7-injured players, say their starters will go 3-quarters in Monday nites game against Seattle, to get ready for opening day. Injuries at left tackle and defensive end, Marcus McNeil and Louis Castillo, and poor play from their inside linebackers and right tackle continue to plague the Bolts.
...Chargers quarterback Norv Turner says the NFL should not go to 18-regular season games; he says injuries would tear apart 53-man rosters, saying the owners are looking at it from a money-standpoint. The coaches fear they won't have enough players.
...The Arizona Cardinals have said 'no', they will not consider trading unhappy receiver Anquan Bolden; he makes 2-million a year and wants an upgrade close to the 10-million fellow receiver Larry Fitzgerald makes.
...Charlotte police are investigating a car jacking, in which the Cadillac SUV and 50-thousand dollars in gold and jewelry was stolen from the vehicle of lst round pick Jeff Otah.
...A brutal nite for the Cleveland Browns; they lose 3-starters with injuries, got bombed by the New York Giants, and insulted by Tony Kornheiser on ESPN, who last nite said they should go back to playing at 1pm on Sunday so no-one would have to see them. At 1-point on Monday nite football they were trailing 30-3.
...On the injury front:
...Cleveland quarterback Derrick Anderson is out for at least a week if not longer with a concussion and bruised throwing hand. Corner Brod Poole has a concussion. Star return man Josh Cribbs has a high ankle sprain.
...The Bengals say receiver Chad Johnson will miss 3-weeks with a sprained shoulder.
...Arizona has lost corner Antrel Rolle with a hi-ankle sprain.
...New Orleans veteran defensive tackle Bryan Young has an arch injury.
...New York Giants backup QB-Anthony Wright has a sprained back.
...Tennessee rookie receiver LaVelle Hawkins is out with a sprained foot.
...Houston has put guard Fred Weary on the IR with complications from last year's broken leg.
...Colts quarterback Peyton Manning, recovering from knee bursa sac surgery, joined the team on the sidelines today during their practice at the new Lucas Oil Dome Stadium.
...The Dallas Cowboys have opened trade talks with Miami about a deal for backup quarterback Jon Beck.
...Atlanta has released unhappy veteran receiver Joe Horn.
...The New England Patriots waived veteran tight end Marcus Pollard.
...Cincinnati has signed receiver Chris Henry again; he faces a 4-game NFL suspension.
...New Orleans has signed ex-Tennessee safety Lance Schulters.
...The Houston Texans have signed ex-Arizona running back Marcell Shipp.
(College Football)
...San Diego State left tackle Mike Matamua underwent a Cat-scan exam for a torn tendon on his foot today; he likely will miss the year.
...The Aztecs, who moved Peter Nelson into the starting left tackle slot, today moved 6-8 right tackle Kellen Farr into right guard. They also moved right tackle Kurt Guenther over to backup left tackle. They also discussed moving Butte College-JUCO transfer Darias Jones from nose tackle to offensive tackle, just 4-days after he arrived on campus.
...The Aztecs are scrambling for line depth now, with the injuries to Matamua, Tommy Draheim and the loss of JUCO transfer Taylor Wallace, yet to practice because of family problems.
...The city of San Diego says the city lost 310-thousand dollars on the Aztecs lease at the Q-the last year two years because of poor attendance.
...UCLA named Kevin Craft as starting quarterback for its opener with Tennessee despite throwing 7-interceptions in 1-week of workouts.
...UCLA also lost tight end Gavin Ketchum with mono.
...USC running back Marc Tyler, who missed all last year with a broken ankle, reinjured the ankle last nite.
...Trojans quarterback Mark Sanchez will go thru his lst extended workouts, dropbacks, plants and throws, since suffering a kneecap injury a week ago.
..ESPN-the Magazine has insulted the USC-UCLA rivalry, calling it the most over-rated game in the country; saying it seldom has any importance in the Pac-10 race; that there is no longtime hate amongst the fans and alums; and that college football in LA is not all that important. They called it a lukewarm-laid back rivalry. They said Ohio State-Michigan is the greatest rivalry over the last 50-years because it always impacts the Big 10-Rose Bowl and BCS race.
...Bob Pruett, the former coach at Marshall, has been implicated in an academic and job scandal at the West Virginia school, that led to 4-years of NCAA probation and loss of scholarships.
...SMU is benching starting QB-Justin Willis. June Jones will go with 2-freshman QBs, Bo Mitchell and Braden Smith.
...Jake Locker, out 11-days with a hamstring injury, returned to Washington Huskies workouts today.
...The Division 1AA poll is out; Appalachian State, North Dakota State and Northern Iowa are ranked 1-2-3.
(Basketball)
...Shawn Kemp a former star with the Seattle Supersonics, is attempting a comeback after being out 3-years; he has signed with Prima-Italy.
...Dan Dikau, a backup guard, has signed to play with Avellino in Italy.
...The Philadelphia 76ers have signed 7-foot center Theo Ratliff, who split last year between Minnesota and Detroit.
...Henry Bibby, the former head coach at USC, and longtime NBA guard, has been fired as an assistant with the 76ers.
...San Diego State has released its basketball schedule for this winter, a most colorful slate; home games with Arizona State-Fresno State and USD. They will also play in the Great Alaskan Shootout and at Arizona.
(Hockey)
...The top 3-Junior League in hockey are voting to ban importation of European players. The Quebec League, Ontario Hockey League an Western League would agree not to sign Russian or Scandinavian players; it would open 120-roster slots for young Canadian and American League players.
(General)
...A wild day in Track-Field at the Olympics.
...Usain Bolt of Jamaica blew past Shawn Crawford to move to the finals in the 200-meter dash. Walter Dix and Wallace Spearmon also moved to the finals.
...In the men's 400-Jeremy Wariner and LaShawm Merritt and 110-hurdler David Oliver all moved on in qualifying.
...In the men's 1500-Bahrain star Rashid Ramsi outran a Kenyan to get the Gold; US star Bernard Lagat stood on the sidelines, having failed to qualify.
...A great day in freestyle wrestling, Arizona's Henry Cujardo came from behind to win 4-matches today and bury a Japanese opponent in the 125-weight class to win a Gold..
...A disappointing day. Sanya Richards had the lead but faded in the stretch, finishing 3rd in the 400-meter event.
...Lolo Jones hit a hurdle and went from lst to 7th in her event.
...Dawn Harper won the Gold in the 100-meter hurdles.
...Shawn Johnson won the Gold in the Women's balance beam.
...Misty May Treanor and Kerri Walsh are headed to the finals against Brazil in Beach Volleyball; they have won 107-matches in a row.
...Chinese newspapers, who called track star Liu Xiang a loser, for pulling out of hurdles events, were told today he had both a hamstring and foot injury.
...In boxing, boxer Azk Kurbanov was expelled from a fite after he bit a Kazakhstan boxer on the ear during their bout.
...German super heavyweight lifter Mattias Steiner set a combined record today, lifting 1016-pounds.
...California Speedway, having trouble drawing on Labor Day weekend, swapped dates for next year on the NASCAR schedule. They will move out of the hot-September weather, and instead run October 11th as part of the Chase for the Championship.
...Beijing-Olympics "AP" after Phelps. Week 2-of the Olympics started today after the 8-Gold Medal week by swimmer Michael Phelps, and the record-shattering run of Jamaican sprinter Usian Bolt. Week 2-began with a disgraced performance by the US-Track team, and another blowout win by Lebron James and Kobe Bryant in basketball.
...Michael Phelps will come home to Baltimore as the winningest Olympian ever, 14-Gold Medals, and a promise to compete in the London Games in 2012. Phelps is being praised for heaping praise on his teammates and for his public announcement he wants to be a spokesman and fundraiser for kids who have Attention Deficit Disorder. Phelps demanded all 4-of the relay team stand on the podium and hold arms high when he got his 8th Gold over the weekend. He also had pictures taken as a group not individually. And he was praised today to sitting to talk to disappointed US swimmers who did not do well in the past week. His agents, Octagon, confirmed he has signed 10-endorsement deals in the US.
...Track & Field is awaiting Usian Bolt's next event, the 200-meter, after he torched the field going 9.69 in l00-meters race on Saturday.
...US Track & Field may be at its lowest point after a banged up Tyson Gay failed to get to the 100-finals; 1500-meter star Bernard Lagat, done in by heat and pollution, failed to get to the finals; women's sprinters Torrie Edwards and Muna Lee failed because of false starts; Terrance Trammell got hurt in the hurdles; our top 2-shot putters fouled out and did not qualify for the finals, and we did not get to the finals in the long jump either.
...China's superstar track star Liu Xieng walked off the track after reinjuring a hamstring in a false start in the hurdles.
...The Balco drug scandal, which wiped out 7-American sprinters, and the fallout from continued cuts in men's track and field because of Title 9-has led to a demise in developing talent.
...Team USA blasted Germany in basketball, to go to (5-0). They hit 11-three point shots and pounded out a 106-57 win over Dirk Nowitzke and Chris Kaman.
...The US baseball team battered China 9-1 in a nasty game of beanballs and 3-ejections.
...The US women's softball winning streak is now at 23-straight after a win over China.
...A marvelous performance by Belarus weightlifter Andrei Aramnau, who had a 440-pound record setting jerk lift, and 520-pound clean and jerk lift.
...Controversy continued off the field. The Reuters News Service is reporting that of the 300-thousand migrant workers who helped build the facilities, only 4-were given tickets to any Olympic events. The workers were paid 5-dollars a day.
...The AP reported the Chinese government rejected all 77-applications from groups who wanted to stage protests at the Olympic sights.
...Japan's top sum wrestler was arrested for possession of marijuana, found in his wallet.
(Football)
...The San Diego Chargers, their number 1-defense punished for 309-yards, most of it rushing by the lowly Rams, are not pushing any panic buttons after a 2nd poor performance. The Rams had a 17-play-95-yard drive on the ground against the Chargers number 1-defense in the lst quarter of Saturday nites loss.
...On the injury front, star kick returner Darin Sproles had a strained kneecap and may miss a week of action.
...Linebacker Shawne Merriman, recovered from a weeklong viral infection, will practice today.
...Corner Antonio Cromartie had double scope surgery, for a cyst on his wrist and a cartilage fragment in his ankle.
...Rookie corner Antoine Cason had a pick and a 55-yard return and looked good in coverage all night.
...Trouble brewing in the Raiders camp. Coach Lane Kiffin has blasted receiver Javon Walker for dropped passes, lack of intensity and spending too much time in the training room. Kiffin says Walker needs to start earning the 11-million signing bonus he got. He refused to use the injuries Walker got in a Las Vegas beating as an excuse, saying Walker got himself into that situation.
...Dallas coach Wade Phillips, off to an (0-2) ugly start, is being criticized for running too easy a camp.
...Tennessee Titans QB Vince Young is getting hammered after going (7-19) in 2-games, an no TDs in 7-drives, for not preparing.
...A big setback in confidence for Aaron Rogers; 4-sacks, an interception, and 3-knockdown passes in a loss to the lowly 49ers.
...St-Louis QB Mark Bulger is struggling in Al Saunders new playbook; (10-23) with 3-picks.
...New England coach Bill Belichick praised rookie QB-Kevin O'Connell for 3-scoring drives in 2-games. The Pats are (0-2)
...Baltimore's QB problems continue; Troy Smith had a 33-rating, Kyle Boller a 35-rating.
...Chicago's quarterbacks Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton are struggling with 2-TD drives in 13 possessions.
...Kansas City may go to Division 1AA quarterback Ty Thigpen; he threw for 127-yards, Brodie Coyle 38-this weekend.
...Minnesota rookie John David Booty is struggling; 2-picks, a fumble, 4-sacks and 4-tipped passes in 2-games.
...Jets lst round draft pick Vernon Gholston has just 1-tackle in 30-plays.
...49ers fans are staying away, just 22-thousand for this weekends game with Green Bay.
...There was good news on a couple of fronts.
...Denver's Jay Cutler completed 12-passes in a row vs Dallas, and is (24-30) for 237-yards in 2-games.
...Atlanta's big money back Michael Turner had 52-and-63 yard runs for the Falcons.
...Cincinnati rookie receiver Jerome Simpson had 5-catches-114-yards.
...Pac Man Jones of the Cowboys, knocking the rust off, had 6-tackles, a pick and a 24-yard punt return.
...Houston QB's Matt Schaub and Sage Rosenfels combined to throw for 289-yards and 2-TDs.
...JT O'Sullivan may win the starting QB job over Alex Smith after a 154-yards passing nite.
...Colt Brennan has now thrown 3-TD passes in 6-possessions for the Redskins.
...On the injury front:
...New England QB Tom Brady says he will miss another week with a strained foot.
...The Colts say Dwight Freeney and Bob Sanders have both been cleared to practice tomorrow.
...Bengals star Chad Johnson is out with a bruised shoulder and TJ Houshmandzadeah has a hamstring problem.
...The Rams have lost 2-offensive line starters, Mark Setterstrom with a fractured kneecap and Brandon Gorin-rotator cuff tear.
...Minnesota QB-Tarvaris Jackson is out a week with a strained knee ligament; receiver Bernard Berrion has turf toe.
...The Giants, already without Plax Burriss with a foot problem, have lost Amani Toomer with knee fluid buildup.
...Atlanta receiver Joe Horn is out again with hamstring problems.
...Dallas has lost receiver Miles Austin for 6-weeks with a sprained knee.
...New England corner Brandon Merriweather has a bruised leg.
...49ers tackle Jonas Jennings has a broken knuckle.
...Seattle tackle Sean Locklear has a sprained knee.
...Washington linebacker Rian Wallace is out with a dislocated shoulder.
...The NFL has hit Bengals safety Marvin White with a 7500-dollar fine for a blow to the head of Packers receiver Ruvell Martin.
...Miami has released veteran center Steve McKinney.
...Tampa Bay has released starting tackle Luke Pettigout.
...The Jets have signed ex-Baltimore fullback Justin Green.
...James Orthwein, a former part-owner of the Patriots, who was instrumental in helping the Rams leave LA and move to St-Louis, has died at the age of 84 of cancer.
(College)
...A big setback at San Diego State. Starting left tackle Mike Matamua may miss the entire season with a torn tendon in his left foot. JUCO defensive tackle Peter Nelson moved into that spot fulltime today. The Aztecs coaching staff had Nelson meet with former NFL star Kyle Turley to talk about the position shift. Turley's message in a team meeting, there are no backups in the offensive line, just starters in waiting.
...Ryan Lindley's (11-13) passing performance for 124-yards, and Atiyyah Henderson's 29-and-38 TD runs highlighted the Aztecs scrimmage over the weekend.
...UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft and Chris Forcier struggled badly in the Bruins scrimmage; sacked 8-times, 1-fumble and 4-interceptions. Craft, who misfired on 6-straight passes early, came back with 7-completions late. The Bruins had just 14-yards rushing.
...USC running back Joe McKnight is ailing again, a hyper extended elbow. Mark Sanchez, the injured quarterback, is scheduled to begin running drills tomorrow, coming off that kneecap injury.
(Baseball)
...A travel day for the Padres, who take their (48-76) record to Arizona to face the Diamondbacks tomorrow.
...Padres GM-Kevin Towers issued a brusk 'no comment' when asked if he has reopened Greg Maddux trade talks with the Dodgers.
...The Dodgers are off tonite, hosting Colorado tomorrow.
...Dodgers fans viciously booed Eric Gagne yesterday, years after his 81-save season; he was named in the Mitchell report.
...Manny Ramirez torrid games continue; he is now (25-59)-hitting .424-with 6-homers, 21-RBIs in 16-games.
...The Dodgers may callup pitcher James McDonald from Las Vegas; he was (6-3) with a 3.10-ERA in the PCL.
...The Angels are in Tampa Bay tonite, in a series that could be marred by Tropical storm Fay moving up the Suncoast. The Halos are (76-46) the Rays are (75-48), but with the storm moving up the coast, the Tuesday-Wednesday games at Tropicana Field might have to be cancelled.
...A surprise weekend with the Angels losing 2-of-3 in Cleveland; Vlad Guerrero-Tori Hunter and Howie Kendrick went (0-31).
...The Phillies are struggling, hitting just .197 in their last 11-games, now 2-back of the Mets. New York has won 10-of-13..
...The Red Sox open a 9-game road trip, in trouble with pitching injuries; they are 4-and a half back of Tampa Bay. The Sox are (21-23) in their own division this year.
...The Yankees open a 6-game trip tomorrow in Toronto; they play 22-of-38 on the road.
...Seattle knuckleballer RA Dickey tied a record with 4-wild pitches yesterday.
...Atlanta pitcher Tom Glavine says he may retire rather than have tendon surgery.
...Detroit has put reliever Todd Jones on the DL with more shoulder woes.
...Tampa Bay closer Troy Percival needs knee cartilage surgery.
...Boston outfielder JD Drew is being treated for back tightness.
...Washington, which has lost 10-straight, has traded reliever Luis Ayala to the New York Mets.
(Basketball)
...The Phoenix Suns have signed 2nd round pick, 6-5 point guard Goran Dragic, who bought out his 2-million dollar contract in Spain; he is the heir apparent to Steve Nash.
(Hockey)
...The Canadian Press is reporting the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers have made last minute offers to try and sign big money free-agent Mats Sundin.
...The Penguins have lost defenseman Ryan Whitney for 5-months with major foot surgery.
(General)
...Huge discipline is coming from NASCAR against Joe Gibbs Racing-Toyota Nationwide series team. They were caught cheating, using magnets on gas pedals, during Dyno Chassis testing over the weekend before the Michigan 400. The magnets would limit how much horsepower the car could generate. Gibbs' teams have won 13-Nationwide races this year; they could face a 1-million dollar fine, or possibly be expelled from the Nationwide series for the rest of the year, and ordered to pay back prize money.
...The LA Galaxy have hired Bruce Arena as Coach and General Manager; he takes over a team that has not won a game in 2-months despite having David Beckham on the roster. Arena coached the US World Cup team; won 2-MLS titles and has a combined coaching record of (159-86-39).
...Genuine Risk, 1-of-3 fillies to win the Kentucky Derby passed away of heart problems today at the age of 31 in Virginia.
