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Bartolo Colon Agree to deal Oakland

 

Bartolo Colon has agreed to a one year $3 million contract with Oakland Athletics which include potential performance business.  The A's announced the agreement on Saturday.  Colon was suspended for 50 games after testing positive for testosterone and will still have 5 games to serve out suspension. 

"We wanted to bring him back... everybody, Bob (manager Melvin), me, everybody.  We ended up with a very good rotation, a young and talented rotation.  But we wanted to find a veteran guy.  In Bartolo's case, based on the production, he was cost effective and good.  It's pretty hard to find that type of pitcher at the cost on a short-term deal." -General Manager Billy Beane 

Steve Nash Suffers Small Fracture

 

Steve Nash suffered a small fracture in his left leg and will miss at least a week.  Nash's results from his MRI exam was announced Saturday by Lakers.  The small fracture was suffered to his fibula during a collision with Portland rookie Damian Lillard on Wednesday.

Armstrong Stripped of Titles

Photo: www.businessinsider.com

 

"I know who won those seven tours, my teammates know who won those seven tours, and everyone I competed against knows who won those seven tours.  The toughest event in the world where the strongest man win.  Nobody can ever change that." -Lance Armstrong
 

Well although we know who won those tours, the greatest has been overshadowed by all of the doping allegations and now Armstrong has been stripped of his seven Tour de France titles, from 1999 to 2005 and has also been banned for life.  Two weeks ago the US Anti-Doping Agency detailed evidence of Armstrong drug use and trafficking by his Tour-winning teams.  Prudhomme wants Armstrong to pay back prize money for his seven wins which totals up to approximately $3.85 million.  McQuaid announced that the UCI accepted the sanctions imposed by USADA and would not appeal them to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.  USADA said Armstrong was at the center of "the most sophisticated, professionalized and successful doping program" that sport has ever seen.  Armstrong still denies doping and states that he has passed all of his drug test including 218 conducted by the UCI and 51 conducted by the USADA.  Oakley sunglasses has now cut ties with Armstrong after UCI announcement.

Via Associated Press

Nike Terminates Armstrong's Deal

Nike announced today that they had terminated Armstrong's endorsement deal. 

"Due to the seemingly insurmountable evidence that Lance Armstrong participated in doping and misled Nike for more than a decade, it is with great sadness that we have terminated our contract with him.  Nike does not condone the use of illegal performance-enhancing drugs in any manner.  Nike plans to continue support of the Livestrong initiatives created to unite, inspire and empower people affected by cancer." -Nike announcement
 

Along with losing the Nike endorsement, Armstrong stepped down as chairman of Livestrong today so that the organization could focus on its mission.  Trek, the company that supplied Armstrong's bikes, Anheuser Busch, Michelob Ultrasound, and FRS, energy drink company, have also parted ways with Armstrong in light of Armstrong's doping allegations. 

Kevin Love Out With Broken Hand

Photo: Jim Mone, AP

Kevin Love broke his right hand during workout on Wednesday morning.  Love is expected to miss six to eight weeks with injury.  Love broke the third and fourth metacarpals on his shooting hand.  Besides Love, the Timberwolves have also lost point guard Ricky Rubio who tore the ACL in his left knee.

Delonte West Suspended by Mavericks

Another year, more Delonte West drama. 

West has been suspended by the Dallas Mavericks for conduct detrimental to the team.  According to sources, the suspension stems from an outburst by West in the locker room following a Mavericks victory on Monday.  No timetable has been given to how long West will be suspended.

"Hopefully, we can get it resolved quickly.  Until we talk to him and hash through it I won't know for sure." -Coach Carlisle
 

 UPDATE OCTOBER 30TH: West was waived by the Mavericks Monday to trim roster to the mandated 15-player limit.  After being suspended twice in a month, according to sources the Mavs were concerned that West negatively influencing younger players on the team.

Ray Lewis Out For Season

Ray Lewis will miss the remainder of the season aftering suffering a torn right tricep Sunday. 

"Ray in the locker room afterward, we didn't know (the extent of the injury), but he was worried about it.  He said some things about his faith.  He said some things that I'll never forget." -Coach John Harbaugh
 

Along with Lewis, the Ravens also lost cornerback Lardarius Webb fo the season who suffered a torn ACL in his left knee on Sunday.  Webb was officially placed on injured reserve Tuesday.

"Lardarius was distraught.  I could see it when I walked onto the field, on his face.  He kind of knew because he's been through it before.  I just felt like he knew.  He was just beside himself." -Coach Harbaugh

UPDATE: Lewis underwent surgery Wednesday, October 17th, a source told ESPN insider Ed Werder.  Lewis was placed on injured reserve with the "designated to return" tag.  Lewis will be eligible to return to practice in 6 weeks, and will be eligibl to play, if healthy, during week 15. 

"We have no idea whether that time frame has anything to do with the injury, but there's an opportunity and we're going to keep the door open.  We'll just see where that goes moving forward." -Coach Harbaugh 

 

Man Stabbed at Orange Madness

Who said that a fun, collegiate event couldn't turn into a tragedy?

A man was stabbed during Syracuse's annual Orange Madness Celebration.  It was last stated that the victim was in stable condition at Upstate University Hospital.  Orange Madness is an event that is used to celebrate the start of the basketball season in which 15,000 people were in attendance.  The event was brought to an end early after several fights occured.  None of the fights and stabbing are believd to involve Syracuse students according to the Syracuse police Sgt. Tom Connellan.

"We were saddened to learn of the incident at th Dome last night.  There is no place and no tolerance for anything like this and future Orange Madnes events will be designed to prevent incidents such as this.  We are proud of the terrific partnership among Syracuse City Police, SU Department of Public Safety, and Carrier Dome security staff, and we are confident that our work will continue to maintain a safe and secure environment for our patrons who come to the Dome to enjoy the hard work and efforts of our student-athletes." -Syracuse Chancellor Nancy Cantor and Athletic Director Darryl Goss

Buccaneers Talib Suspended

Photo: Getty Images

Cornerback Aqib Talib of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has been suspended for four games without pay for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances.  Talib stated that he would not appeal the suspension that is set to begin Sunday when the Buccaneers takes on the Chiefs.  Talib admitted to taking an Adderall pill without a prescription at the beginning of training camp.  Aqib Talib is one the team's top defenders in his fifth year in the league after being drafted 20th overall in 2008.  Talib will not be eligible to return to the active roster until November 5th.

"I made a mistake by taking an Adderall pill without a prescription.  This is especially regrettable because, for the past several months, with Coach Schiano's hlep, I've worded very hard to iprove myself, professionally and personally, as a player and a man.  I am truly sorry to my teammates, coaches, and Buccaneers fans, and I'm disappointed in myself.  I will work diligently every day of this suspension to stay in top football shop and be ready to help this team in the second half of the season.  I have chosen to be immediately accountable for the situation I put myself in, which is why I will not exercise my appeal rights and will begin serving the suspension immediately." -Aqib Talib

Darrelle Revis to Undergo Surgery

 

Darrelle Revis will be out for the New York Jets as he will undergo surgery on his knee Thursday, October 18th, and has been placed on season ending injured reserve.  The Jets' originally delayed placing Revis on IR with hopes that he would be able to return from surgery and recovered and ready to play in time for the Super Bowl, IF the Jets were to make it to the Super Bowl.  Rookie Safety Antonio Allen has been named to fill Revis' spot.  Along with Revis being out, Eric Smith sprained his knee during practice this past Thursday and will miss this Sunday's game as well as receiver Santonio Holmes had surgery on his foot this past Wednesday and linebacker Josh Mauga had surgery this past Friday to repair a torn pectorial muscle. 

"I know I had said before about Darelle that I'd like to wait for him to have surgery before we placed him on IR or not.  Unfortunately with that time situation, you've had Eric Smith out htis week, we're going to need that roster spot." -Rex Ryan

Francisco Rodriguez Arrested

Photo: Tom Mihalek / AP

Looks like Milwaukee Brewer reliever found himself in a little trouble last month.  Reports have come out that Francisco Rodriguez was arrested last month on a domestic violence complaint involving his girlfriend.  According to Waukesha County District Attorney Brad Schimel, Rodriguez has not been charged and that any possible charges would be misdemeanors following his arrest from September 18th.  Francisco Rodriguez is accused of "physical abuse."

Smith Set to Stand Trial

A LA County judge ordered that Anthony Wayne Smith must stand trial for four murders.  Smith was a defensive lineman who played eight years in the 90's for the Oakland/LA Raiders. 

Judge Lisa Chung ruled, after a four-day preliminary hearing, that there was sufficient evidence for Smith to stand trial for the killings that came in a nine-year span beginning the year after he left the NFL.  Smith had already been tried for one murder that occured in 2008, the murder of Maurilio Ponce, and is currently awaiting a retrial.  Along with the murder of Ponce, Smith will now also be charged with the murders of Kevin and Ricky Nettles, brothers found shot to death in 1999, and the 2001 killing of Dennis Henderson, who was found stabbed to death in a rental car.  The cases will be combined into a single tiral and the case will return to court for a hearing on October 29th.

This is definitely a sad ending to an individual who didn't know what to do with himself after leaving the league.

NBA Looking to Penalize Floppers

We all have gotten tired of the players that flop in the NBA and it looks like the league has gotten fed up with it as well.  NBA Commissioner David Stern made the following statement during last season's Finals:

"If you continue to do this, you may have to suffer some consequences.  What those exactly should be and what the progression is, is to be decided. We just want to put a stake in the ground that says this is not something we want to be a part of our game, without coming down with a sledgehammer but just doing it in a minimalist way to begin stamping it out.  And I think there are ways we can do that and we'll have to wait and see exactly what we come up with."

For those that don't know what flopping is, it's when a player flops to the ground dramatically when there is little or no contact between the player and the opponent.

Well it look like we won't have to wait that much longer.  Spokesman Tim Frank stated on Wednesday that the league is finalizing procedures to deal with flopping.   Stern believes that there are too many players are deceiving referees by flopping.  The procedures are likely to include postgame reviews by the league office rather than an official calling an infraction during the game.  The players when then likely be fined if the play is determined a flop.

Lockout Comes to End for NFL Refs

Replacement Refs with opposing calls
Monday Night in Packers/Seahawks game

After an uproar from coaches, players and fans about the horrible calls of the replacement refs, things reached the highest peak of outrage Monday night when one ref called an obvious interception by the Packers a touchback and another ref signaled the catch as an touchdown for the Seahawks. Well that call might have been the call that got the refs and the league at the table to come up with an agreement.

John Abraham Arrested for Obstruction

Well, well, well. Another week and another Falcons player being arrested.  This time it's Defensive End John Abraham.  Abraham was arrested for two misdemeanor obstruction charges Monday night.  John was released Tuesday morning on $7,000 bond ($3,500 per charge).  Abraham entered a police taped off area, who were in response to a lady threatening to jump from a hotel window.

"Mr. Abraham refused to leave, and nearby officers had to respond to Mr. Abraham's location.  The officers also ordered Mr. Abraham to leave and he again refused and insisted on continuing further into the scene.  Officers then took Mr. Abraham into custody." -Officer K.Y. Jones

Abraham was charged with once count of obstruction of police and one count of obstruction of firefighters.

"I think at this moment I don't want to talk about my side. Once we get everything clarified and get everything going the right way - because we're still in a legal situation that we need to get cleared out and everything.  But you know sometimes it's just bad timing.  I'm not going to fault anybody at all.  It was just things happen in life." -John Abraham

Abraham's arrest comes just one week after running back Michael Turner was arrested for a DUI after the Falcons' victory of the Denver Broncos.  The Falcons' front office responded to the news of Abraham's arrest with the following statement:

"We are aware of the news regarding John Abraham. We are in the process of gathering more information, and we will have no further comment at this time." -Atlanta Falcons statement

The Falcons will take on the Carolina Panthers Sunday September 30th, lets hope that another Falcons' player doesn't get arrested after this game.

 

Darrelle Revis Out for Season

Looks like Revis Island is closed for construction.  Darrelle Revis of the New York Jets suffered a torn ACL in his left knee and will require season ending surgery.  Revis underwent a MRI on Monday that confirmed the Jets' fear that something was seriously wrong with one of their star players.  Revis will undergo surgery within two to three weeks and the recovery time for the surgery is six to nine months.

"Is it a major blow when you lose a great player like Darrelle Revis? Of course, absolutely it is.  But this is a football team." -Rex Ryan, Jets' Head Coach

Revis suffered the injury during the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins. Revis knee buckled up under him as he tried to get into position to tackle running back Daniel Thomas.

This is a big loss for the Jets with Revis being maybe the best cornerback in the game of footb

Chad Johnson Pleads No Contest

Maybe Chad and TO should get together a reality show on how to continue to revise your public image and on trying to find a job.  Well luckily for Chad he's not having to do jail time due to his altercation with ex-wife Evelyn Lozado.

Chad Johnson pleaded no contest in court to domestic violence charge.  Johnson has been sentenced to a year's probation and a counseling course under his plea bargain.  But although this seems to be behind him it looks as though Evelyn Lozado is trying to hint at past violent situations between her and Johnson.  Either Evelyn is taking this and running with it for attention or Chad has a serious problem that he needs to get worked out.

Vince Young Financial Woes

Rick Stewart/Getty Images

Let this be a lesson you guys, that you can't trust everyone especially when it comes to millions of dollars and poor Vince Young had to learn that the hard way.

Vince Young has recently spoken out about his financial issues, stating that the situation is an unfortunate financial problem that is due to betrayal of advisers.  Young is currently suing his former agent, Mayor Adams and a North Carolina financial planner, Ronnie Peoples, on claims that they misappropriated at least $5.5 million of Young's money.

Now granted I'm sure that Young has did some extravagant spending while in the league but when a lender, Pro Player Funding, LLC, has obtained a judgment against you for almost $1.7 million and you have no idea about this loan something about that isn't right.  And that's exactly what happened to Young.  The two, Adams and Peoples, had taken out a loan worth $1.9 million in Vince's name during last year's lockout and Young knew nothing of the loan.  Now Pro Player Funding, LLC has obtained a judgment for the remaining balance that is owed on the loan.  Vince Young is also currently unemployed as he was released by the Buffalo Bills in August.  Let's hope that things get better for Mr. Young.

Ladies and Gentleman let us all learn a valuable lesson from Vince Young, you can't trust everyone with your money.

Michael Turner Arrested

REUTERS/Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department

And the idiot of the year award goes to... Michael Turner.

Just hours after the Atlanta Falcons defeated the Denver Broncos 27-21, the Falcons star Running Back Michael Turner was arrested on charges of driving under the influence and speeding.  Turner was booked into the Gwinnett County jail around 5am and was later released on #2,179 bond.

"The officer made contact with the driver who identified himself as 30 year old Michael Turner of the Atlanta Falcons.  The officer could smell an odor of alcoholic beverage coming from the driver and proceeded to conduct a DUI investigation." -Captain Edwin Ritter, Police Spokesman stated in news release

Turner was clocked going 97 MPH on I-85, 32 MPH over the speed limit.  Turner met with Coach Smith in his office Tuesday on the player's off day.

"First and foremost any time a player sheds negatively on our football team and on our organization, we are very disappointed.  This is a legal matter, and it's very well defined how we have to proceed with it through the league, an we'll let this process run its course." -Coach Mike Smith, Atlanta Falcons

Serena Williams Wins 4th US Open

Al Bello / Getty Images 

Interesting Sports Fact: Serena Williams has 15 Grand Slam titles; the rest of today's active WTA players have a total of 19.

Go Serena Go Serena Go...

Serena Williams has just captured her fourth US Open title after going down two points and coming back to win the last four games, defeating Victoria Azarenka.  Williams became the first female tennis player to gain $40 million in earnings with her Sunday victory.

"I honestly can't believe I won.  I really was preparing my runner-up speech, because I thought 'Man, she's playing so great.' I'm really shocked." -Serena Williams

Williams has made history all around this year.  Williams is 26-1 since losing the French Open in May, winning Wimbledon as well as the London Olympics.  Serena has now become the first 30 year old woman to win the US Open since Martina Navratilova in 1987.

MJD Ends Holdout

Well it looks like Maurice Jones-Drew has decided to return to work without a new contract.  After 38 days MJD decided to end his holdout on the Jacksonville Jaguars.

"I'm in a good place.  I did something I felt was right, and I'm going to feel right.  I'm not going to feel wrong for what I did at all.  And that's why I can come back and not have a negative attitude.  I think if you regret things, you're going to come back salty, be a distraction, things like that." -Maurice Jones-Drew

Jacksonville could fine Jones-Drew up to $30,000 a day plus $60,00 for the three day mandatory mini-camp, equaling $1.2 million for the entire hold out.

Flying Fan

Photo Credit: 
http://www.wanderlustatlanta.com/ 

Two fans were injured at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia after a 20 year old male fell from the upper deck and landed on a fan in the mezzanine area.  The young man fell about 35 feet during the Tennessee vs. NC State game.  Both fans were taken to the Atlanta Medical Center after the incident, where it was stated that both fans suffered minor injuries.

"We were celebrating.  He started pumping fists and was leaning over the rail.  He just slipped off.  We looked down.  It took forever to get someone down there.  He was moving a little but it took about fifteen minutes to get a stretcher down there." -Ryan Coleman, Tennessee Senior

The young man fell when Tennessee scored there second touchdown of the first half.

Replacement Refs In

Look like the replacement refs are in for the NFL, at least they are for week 1.  Ray Anderson, NFL Executive Vice President, informed the 32 teams on Wednesday via memo stating that the replacement refs will work as much of the regular season as necessary.

"One of our key goals in this negotiation is to enhance our ability to recruit, train and replace officials who are not performing adequately.  We believe that officials should be evaluated and performance issues addressed in the same way as players, coaches, club management and league staff.  We have proposed several steps to accomplish this, including having a number of full-time officials and expanding the overall number of officials." -Ray Anderson

The NFL Referees Association has been locked out since early July and negotiations are currently at a stand still between the referees and the league.

"We are not surprised, based on Ray Anderson's statement, that the NFL was not going to reach out to us. However, this is consistent with the NFL's negotiating strategy which has been 'take it or leave it and lock them out.'  It now appears the NFL is willing to forego any attempt to reach a deal in the last seven days before opening night." -Michael Arnold, NFLRA spokesman

The NFL's opening night of regular season is Wednesday September 5 between the Dallas Cowboys and defending champs New York Giants.

Notre Dame suspends Cierre Woods

Notre Dame announced Sunday that Running Back Cierre Woods as well as Defensive End Justin Utopo would be suspended for the first two games of the season.

"Our players are aware of the standards I set for our program and that failure to meet my expectations will result in consequences.  Justin and Cierre violated our team rules so I've suspended them for the first two games of the season." -Coach Brian Kelly

The school did not announce what caused the suspensions but other players of the program have also been suspended including quarterback Tommy Rees and Linebacker Carlo Calabrese.  The suspensions come at the same time as Cornerback Lo Wood being out for the entire season with a ruptured Achilles.   

TO Out

Joe Nicholson/US PRESSWIRE

Just when we think that things may be looking up for Terrell Owens, we  get news that things are back on the downfall.  Seattle announced Sunday that they had terminated TO's contract.  All teams had to reduce their roster from 90 to 75 by Monday August 27th at 4PM EST. Unfortunately for Owens he was one of those 15 that the Seahawks decided to let go.  

Owens took to twitter and stated the following:

I'm no longer a Seahawk I THANK the organization for the opportunity, I'm truly blessed beyond belief.  My FAITH is intact and will not waiver."

Owens last played in the NFL for the Bengals in 2010.  During the preseason TO caught only two passes in the second and third preseason games.  Lack of production and the large number of drops outweighed his catches and workouts.

"We really liked the group that we assembled.  Terrell came in here and busted his tail and he looked really effective right from the start.  But as we just took a look at our guys that are coming through the program and growing up with us we thought it would be best for us to stay with those guys." -Coach Pete Carroll

Lance Armstrong Bows Down

 Photo: EPA/OLIVIER HOSLET

There comes a point in every man's life when he has to say 'Enough is enough.' For me that time is now." -Lance Armstrong

Vick Leaves Game With Injury, AGAIN

It's only game 2 of the preseason and Michael Vick has already had to leave the game twice due to injuries.  Is this a bad sign for the Eagles?

Ejected Fans Required to Take Course

Seems like the NFL is fed up with the misbehavior of fans at the games. Any fan that gets ejected from a football game must now take a four-hour online course before being able to return to a game.

Jeff Demps Signs With Patriots

JAMIE SQUIRE/GETTY IMAGES

What a way to return home from the Olympics by signing a contract with the New England Patriots.

Tyrann Mathieu Enters Rehab

Photo: wbir.com

According to a news report by WVUE-RV in New Orleans, La, Mathieu's adoptive father, Tyrone Mathieu, has stated that the former LSU star has been at the Right Step Recovery Center in Houston, TX.  Tyrone Mathieu told the news that Tyrann is committed to restoring his health and will not play football until he is confident that his rehab is complete.

Tyrann Mathieu was dismissed from the LSU football team on August 10th after violation of the program's substance-abuse policy.  According to sources Tyrann had failed his third drug test and was dismissed from the team.  According to LSU approximately 20 college football programs have approached the school asking for permission to speak Mathieu about transferring to their football program.  Although teams have approached Mathieu, Tyrann has stated that he was interested in enrolling in classes at LSU with the hopes of returning to the football program in 2013.

Hope that everything works out for Tyrann Mathieu and he gets the helps he needs. There is nothing worse than a great talent that goes to waste.

No Coconut Water for Chad Johnson

Due to the recent bad happenings in Chad Johnson's life, Zico brand, producers of coconut water, has decided to drop Chad Johnson from its endorsement roster.  Zico Brand released the following statement:

"The Zico brand is about supporting naturally powered athletes.  We partnered with Chad Johnson because of our great respect for what he has achieved on the playing field.  However, in light of recent events involving Mr. Johnson, we have decided to terminate our relationship.  The values we espouse, through our employees, our customers and our brand,  are central to our mission.  We have taken this proactive step to demonstrate just how important those values are." -Zico company statement

The endorsement of Chad Johnson for Zico was just announced on July 25th and lasted less than his marriage to Evelyn.  Reebok spokesman Daniel Sarro said that Chad Johnson was still under contract with Reebok although he is no longer on a team.  So in the mist of losing pretty much everything for head butting wife Evelyn Lozado it seems that Reebok may be the one of the only things that Chad has left.  

Chad Johnson Arrested and Released by Dolphins

Twitter went crazy last night when news that Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson had been arrested on some type of domestic charges. Once details began to surface jokes and "words of advice" for the star was the discussion on twitter.

Howard to the Lakers

Associated Press

Dwight Howard is finally no longer a Orlando Magic.  The superstar Center as been traded to the Los Angeles Lakers in a trade that involved four teams.

The four team trade sent Howard to the Lakers and was completed late Thursday night according to sources.  Howard still stands firm on not signing an extension and becoming a free agent at the end of this upcoming season.  But the Lakers are not worried about that.  Lakers were willing to sign Howard without an extension believing that once Howard gets an experience of a championship culture he would be willing to stay longer.

Richardson Scheduled to Have Surgery

Trent Richardson is tentatively scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery today to remove a "hang nail particle" of loose cartilage that's causing irritation on his left knee.  Richardson could go without the surgery but the team and Richardson decided it was best to take care of the situation early in the preseason.  The small particle has caused swelling in his knee and was detected by an MRI that was conducted on his knee.  Richardson had arthroscopic surgery February 3rd after suffering a torn meniscus during the BCS Championship gave against LSU.

"Trent Richardson is traveling to Pensacola, Florida, where he will have his left knee further evaluated by Dr. James Andrews tomorrow." -Statement released by Cleveland Browns yesterday

Richardson is expected to be back ready to play before the regular season opener and his recovery time is scheduled to be approximately two weeks.  

Son of Andy Reid Found Dead

TIM SHAFFER/REUTERS

In just the past 2 weeks the NFL community has been hit by back to back deaths that has been a shock to everyone.  The oldest son of Andy Reid, Garrett Reid, was found dead Sunday morning in his room at the Eagles' training camp at Lehigh University.  The 29 year old Reid had struggled with drug abuse for years and was imprisoned in 2007 but had since made a turn around in his life.  Garrett Reid was assisting the Eagles' strength coaches at camp and no foul play has been associated with his death.

The entire NFL community was saddened by the news of Reid's passing and more than 900 people gathered for Garrett's funeral Tuesday morning.  Among those that were present for the funeral included NFl commissioner Roger Goodell, Browns President Mike Holmgren, and Patriots coach Bill Belichick.  The Eagles players and team employees were brought to the funeral together by bus and among them there was also other players and coaches present including former Eagles QB Donovan McNabb.  Garrett Reid's service was held at a Mormon church in Broomall, PA.

"Today is one of life's tough days.  Andy is a rock-solid man.  I think what makes him a great coach is his combination of compassion, feeling and strength.  We've all suffered--most of us have suffered tragedy in our lives.  Losing a son is unimaginable.  Losing a child is unimaginable--the pain.  Again, he is rock solid." -Jeffery Lurie, Philadelphia Eagles Owner

My condolences go out to the Reid family and friends.

Former Penn State Players set to Appeal Sanctions

A group of former Penn State players have come together and notified the NCAA of their intention to appeal the sanctions set on the football program due to the Jerry Sandusky scandal.

The group of players consist of former quarterback Michael Robinson (2001-2005), Anwar Phillips (2001-2005), Josh Gaines (2004-2008), Shamar Finney (1998-2002), Richard Gardner (1999-2003), Gerald Cadogan (2004-2008), Anthony Adams (1998-2002), Just Kiurpeikis (1996-2000), and ex-assistant coach Bill Kenney.

The group is represented by Attorney Paul V. Kelly, who sent in an intent to appeal letter to the NCAA dated August 7, 2012.  According to the governing body for college sports has said that the sanctions brought are not subject to appeal.  This is not the first intent to appeal letter that the NCAA has received on behalf of Penn State, a PSU trustee has also sent in an intent to appeal letter.

History: First Woman Set to Officiate in NFL

NFL.com

The National Football League confirmed Monday that the first time that a woman will officiate in a NFL game will take place this Thursday during the Packers vs. Chargers preseason game.  Shannon Eastin has 16 years of experience as an referee and has been a referee for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.  The news of this historic moment was first announced by the LA Times early Monday.  The NFL are currently using replacement referees after locking out permanent officials due to contract disputes.  The first woman to officiate any major United States professional sport occurred in the NBA in 1997.

"I want to encourage women: Don't be afraid.  Pursue and have dreams. This is my dream. With every step, I hope to show it really doesn't matter if you are male and female." -Eastin told the Associated Press

Eastin will serve as the line judge during Thursday night's game.

Terrell Owens Sign With Seahawks

AP

Look like things may be looking up for 38 year old Terrell Owens.  The Seattle Seahawks announced Monday night that they had agreed to a one year deal with free agent wide receiver Terrell Owens.  A source told ESPN's Ed Werder that Owen's received a one year deal worth approximately $1 million.  The Seahawks was impressed with Owens who worked out with the team Monday where he ran the 40 in 4.45 seconds.

Owens has had a rough time in the last few years.  Owens hasn't played in the NFL since the 2010 season and underwent knee surgery after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in April of 2011.  After several attempts of returning to the NFL, including a public workout in which he invited teams to come watch him workout, Owens received no interest from any NFL team this past season, which led him to playing in the IFL for the Allen Wranglers.  Owens was then removed from the Wranglers and loss his ownership percentage in the team after issues with the team.

Owens last season in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals, he had 72 catches for 983 yards and 9 touchdown.  Last year with the Wranglers Owens had 35 catches for 420 yards and 10 touchdowns in 8 of 11 games.

"God is good. Thankful. Grateful. To ALL my new teammates and the "12th Man"... Lets Do This" -TO on Twitter

Team USA Basketball Point Proven

Photo Credit: AP

Well the world has been so caught up in comparing the current Team USA basketball team to the '92 Dream Team that they haven't really paid attention to their play until this game.  If Team USA was trying to prove a point to the world, it was proven against Nigeria today.  The United States team beat Nigeria by more points than the Nigeria team even scored in the entire game.  Team USA broke the record for the most points scored in an Olympic contest, which was formerly held by the 1988 Brazil team with 138 points, scoring 156 points.  Not only did the team break a record, Carmelo Anthony broke a Team USA individual record for most points scored by a player in an Olympic game with 37 points in only 14 minutes.

To say that Team USA went off on Nigeria is an understatement.  Carmelo and company beat Nigeria by 83 points with the final score being 156-73.  The team went on a shooting rampage from the tip off of the game going a 13-0 run in the first three minutes of the game and scoring 49 points, which included 11 3-pointers, in the first quarter alone.  The team ended of the game shooting 71.1% from the floor and shooting 63% from 3 point range making 29 of 46 3 pointers.  Doc Rivers stated after the game that it this game may have been the best shooting performance in history.  Lebron James only had 6 points in the entire game and Kobe Bryant scored only 16 points in only 11 minutes of play.  Russell Westbrook had an exciting game as well exploding to add 21 points.  Sad thing is though is without Camelo's 37 points and Westbrook's 21 points the United States still would have beat Nigeria by 25 points.

I don't know what point Team USA Basketball was trying to make but point proven and the world heard you loud and clear.

Favre is Returning to Football

(Rogelio V. Solis / AP)

Before you get the aw man here we go with this again Brett Favre is returning to football but not to the NFL, Favre will be an assistant high school coach in Mississippi.  In the fall Brett Favre will be working at Oak Grove High School close to his home in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. The Biloxi Sun-Herald reported that Favre is expected to be the offensive coordinator for the powerhouse football program.  In the past,  Favre has helped out with the team unofficially and head coach Nevil Barr stated that they had discussed Favre working with the team but no job title has yet been defined.

Favre retired from the NFL in 2010 and although there has been rumors that Favre was looking to return to the NFL, again, Brett has maintained a low profile since his retirement.  I think that Favre coaching high school football is a good fit, it gives him the opportunity to participate in the sport in which he loves so much without having to endure the spotlight that the NFL brings.

OJ Murdock Dies of Apparent Suicide

Photo from OJ Murdock's Facebook Page

After sending an odd text to his former coach at 3:30 am, OJ Murdock was found inside his car by Tampa police with what they described as self inflicted gunshot wounds.  Murdock's car was found outside of his former high school, Middleton High School, in which his dreams of becoming an NFL star all began.

Murdock sent the following text to his former coach, Al McCray, who was his coach in high school and who also helped him get his career back on track at Fort Hays State:

"Coach I want to thank you for everything you've done for me and my family.  It's greatly appreciated. I apologize"

But Murdock did not state in the text what he apologized for.  Murdock has had a rollercoaster ride in his football career.  He originally went to college at South Carolina to play football, he was redshirted his freshman year, only playing one game, and was then dismissed from the team after being arrested for shoplifting in a Florida store in 2006.  Murdock spent two years at home before eventually enrolling in a small college and then transferring to Fort Hays State with his former high school coach McCray.  After having an outstanding senior year with Fort Hays State, Murdock was signed with the Tennessee Titans in 2011 as an unrestricted free agent.  Murdock then spent last season on injured reserved and was looking to return to the field with the Titans this year.

"It's hard, it really is because he was such a good kid.  He was lazy in the classroom in high school, and of course he messed up at South Carolina, but you're talking about a kid who was on his mom's couch for two years.  He got the grades he needed and he came up here [Fort Hays State] and he had one dream, one goal: 'I'm going to come out here and I'm going to play at a high level and I'll get to the National Football League.' And the kid did it. He did it." -Al McCray, Assistant Head Coach/Receiver

My condolences go out to the Murdock family.  You never know what someone is going through to push them over the edge.  This is a sad end to someone who all he wanted to do is make sure his mother and family was taken care of.  My hear is with them all.

 

Bryant Family News Conference

 (AP Photo/Nomaan Merchant)

Angela Bryant sat along side her son Dez Bryant during a brief news conference about the alleged assault charges.  Angela Bryant stated that no family violence had occurred between herself and her son Dez Bryant that was reported over a week ago.  Neither party answered any questions about the incident and a statement was read by Dez Bryant's Attorney, Senator Royce West.

Statement:

"Did a family disagreement occur? Yes. Did Dez Bryant commit family violence against his mother? No.  They are here together today to show they do love and support each other.  Just as much as they did before the incident a week ago.  But like all families, the Bryants have disagreements.  

 They ask that there not be a rush to judgement concerning their family. they also ask for your continued prayers and support for their family as they work through this matter."

At this time Bryant has yet to meet with the league or the Dallas Cowboys organization about the incident.  Both the league and the Cowboys organization are investigating the matter to see if any disciplinary action needs to take place.  Quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys Tony Romo showed his support for Dez releasing a statement after the news conference which he stated that Dez is a really good guy.

Hope that what they are saying is true, that no assault occurred on Angela Bryant by her only son.  The only thing that has me confused is that why would Angela Bryant lie and then turn around and say that no violence occurred.  And where did the bruises come from that were reported in the incident?  Hmmm

 

Penn State Gets Worse than Death Penalty?

Jamie Sabau/Getty Images

The NCAA has come down on Penn State and it wasn't with the death penalty.  Penn State has received a $60 million sanction, 4 year football postseason ban, vacation of all wins dating from 1998 and they must reduce 10 initial and 20 total scholarships each year for four years.

Goodbye Ochocinco

Everybody gave Chad Ochocinco the side eye when he changed his last name a couple of years ago, well it looks like we can look at Chad normal again.  Ochocinco has decided to change his name back to Johnson partly due to his recent marriage to "Basketball everything but wives" reality star Evelyn Lozado.

"I'm refocused and locked in.  Time to get back to the old me.  It has nothing to do with football.  Ochocinco is still in me.  It's just my middle name." -Chad told ESPN.com

Johnson originally changed surname to Ochocinco before the 2008 season in order to have his nickname on his jersey.  Johnson had stated before that he would only change his name back to Johnson when the brand Ochocinco stopped making him money, so maybe it really is love between Johnson and non-basketball wife Evelyn.  I guess in due time we will see if it all works out in the end.

Berry Released by Lions

Paul Sancya/ AP

After being arrested for the second time this summer, the Detroit Lions have cut CB Aaron Berry from the team.  

"We have repeatedly stressed to everyone in our organization that there will be appropriate consequences when an expected standard of behavior is not upheld" -Lions President Tom Lewand

The Lions organization felt that Berry's personal conduct had adversely affected the club and therefore was let go by the team.  Berry was arrested on Saturday morning on three charges of simple assault.

The moral of this story kids is just because it is off season doesn't mean you can behave any way you see fit.  Keep it safe.

Howard Will Not Sign Extension

(Derick E. Hingle/US Presswire)

And so the Dwight Howard Saga continues.  Dwight Howard's agent has stated that Howard did not decide to sign a contract extension if traded to the Los Angeles Lakers.

"Dwight's position has remained unchanged since the end of this past season.  He fully intends to explore free agency at the end of the next season, regardless of what team trades for him, including Brooklyn." -Dan Fegan, Howard's Agent

With this being the last year in Howard's contract the longest extension he would be able to sign is two years if he remains with the Orlando Magic and three years if he is traded to another team.  If Howard waits until his current deal expires he will be able to sign a five year deal for as much as $116.9 million.

According to Magic General Manager Rob Hennigan Howard told the Magic he would like to be traded to the Nets above any other team.  But when trade between the Nets and the Magic fell through for Dwight Howard Lakers arose as the top team in pursuit of Howard trying to include the Houston Rockets and Cleveland Cavaliers as potential third parties in the trade.

With Dwight Howard not signing an extension the trade for him is going to get interesting.  The Magic are going to try to get rid of him that way if he decides to leave in free agency next off season they will have at least got something in return for him, but no team is really going to want to trade for him if they're not 100% sure that he's not going to stay another year.  Hmmm this may go down to the wire and with Dan Fegan, Howard's agent, openly stating that Howard has no intention of signing an extension it wouldn't surprise me if teams back off in trying to trade for him and just wait to pursue him in the free agency.  Stay tuned as the Howard Saga continues.

President Obama Picks Dream Team

Kobe Bryant has once again placed his arrogance out there for the world that has led to an open debate on whether the '92 Dream Team is better than this year's Team USA.  Michael Jordan fired back with a statement saying "I just laughed" and literally laughed out loud.  Well President Obama has come out and stated that he feels that the Dream Team would beat this year's team.  President Obama stated "This is a generational thing.  I was around in '92, I was a Bulls fan, so I've got to go with the original Dream Team.  You know Kobe's a competitor so you expect him to do a little trash talking when the opportunity arises.

The '92 Dream Team consisted of Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Charles Barkley, Patrick Ewing, Chris Mullin, David Robinson, Karl Malone, Christian Laettner, Clyde Drexler, and John Stockton.

While this year's 2012 Team USA consist of Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, James Harden, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant, Lebron James, Tyson Chandler, Kevin Love, Deron Williams, Andre Iguodala, and Anthony Davis (who replaced Blake Griffin who suffered a knee injury.

President Obama wasn't able to escape the debate during Monday's exhibition game against Brazil and was interviewed during halftime.  President Obama went on to say "Obviously the talent that we've got at this point is unbelievable, so there's no reason that we shouldn't bring home the gold.  We just have to stay focused."

President Obama and First Lady Michelle court side during
Monday night's exhibition USA vs. Brazil Basketball game

Ray Rice Signs 5-year Deal with Ravens

Ray Rice signed a 5-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens Monday worth approximately $40 million. Rice will get $17 million this upcoming season and receive $8 million during the 2013 season. If Rice hadn't signed a long term contract by 4 pm Monday he would have played this upcoming season under the $7.7 million franchise tag tender. Rice took to twitter saying "Baltimore I'm back well I never left lol #Ravens". Rice scored a franchise high fifteen touchdowns last season. Veteran RB Ricky Williams had the following to say about Rice:

"He's got all the God-given ability, but he also works hard. It's rate to find that combination. In my mind, there's only one way to have success, and that's to work hard and have a little bit of talent. He's got both."

Dez Bryant Allegedly Assaults Mother

Matthew Emmons US Presswire

Dez Bryant was arrested early Monday after allegedly grabbing his mother's t-shirt and hair and hitting her across the face with a ball cap, according to the incident report.  Angela Bryant, Dez's mother, was quoting as stating "I can't keep letting him do this."  According to Angela this is the not the first time in which her son Dez Bryant has assaulted her.  Dez has been charged with Class A misdemeanor for assaulting a female family member after allegedly striking Angela in the hand and wrists.  According to the incident report bruising was observed on both of Angela's arms.  Dez Bryant was released late Monday after posting $1,500 bond.  What is this world coming to when people are assaulting their parents?

Kyrie Irving Breaks Right Hand

Being in the NBA definitely does not make you mature faster and this incident with Kyrie Irving proves that.  Irving broke his right had slapping a padded wall during practice on Saturday.  The young Cavs star was upset after making a turnover and slapped the padded wall in a high school gymnasium.  Irving traveled back to Cleveland Sunday to be examined by team doctors on Monday and is expected to miss two months.  The young star is scheduled to have surgery on his broken hand this Wednesday.

This incident came just days after it had hit the net that Irving had challenged Kobe Bryant to a one on one game, in which the winner would receive a cash sum from his opponent to be donated to the charity of their choice.

Terrell Owens Missed Hearing

Looks like Terrell Owens is in deep trouble yet again.  TO is currently behind on his child support $20,000 and could face jail time for the missed payments.  TO was scheduled to appear in court on Thursday but did not show up for the hearing upsetting County Judge John Goger according to WSBTV.com.  Owens' attorney David Hartin accepted blame for TO missing the hearing claiming that he did not communicate with Owens about hearing.

Terrell Owens had agreed to pay Melanie Page Smith, mother of his 7-year old daughter, $5,000 per month and has not made a payment in several months.  Judge Goger reset Owens hearing for this Thursday and Owens is facing jail time if he does not show up for the rescheduled hearing.

"It's a tragedy, not only that we are here today; this is the third case she [Smith] has had to file in the last year.  We are hoping next week the case will come to a resolution and Mr. Owens will pay and pay every month." -Randy Kessler, Smith's Attorney

I hope that TO gets his act together, I'm sure he doesn't want to be remembered as the guy that didn't take care of his kids.  Of course these situations will not overshadow his play on the field, but the fact that these cases are being played out in the public eye is very sad, especially with his kids getting to the age to where they can understand what is going.  Let's hope that Owens will take care of his responsibilities from this day forward.

UPDATE: Owens paid the $20,000 he had missed avoiding the jail time he was facing from missing his child support payments as well as the hearing last week.

Blake Griffin Injures Left Knee

The USA Basketball team hasn't been together a week and already someone is hurt.  Blake Griffin injured his left knee during a scrimmage at team USA training camp according to ESPN.  Griffin returned to Los Angeles to have his knee examined by Clippers' physicians.  USA Basketball released a statement saying that Griffin would miss the scrimmage today against the Dominican Republic after complaining about discomfort in his left knee.  Griffin is expected to undergo a MRI exam and be evaluated on Sunday.  USA Basketball announced that the 2012 number 1 draft pick, Anthony Davis of the New Orleans Hornets was asked to report to Team USA training camp and will dress out in place of Griffin in tonight's scrimmage game.  Davis is one of six alternates for Team USA after not making the 12 man team due to a sore ankle he suffered from during try outs.  Whether Griffin is able to return to Team USA or not I'm sure that they will be able to bring home the gold.

UPDATE: Griffin has been diagnosed with a medial meniscus tear in left knee and will miss the Olympics according to the LA Times and will likely have arthroscopic surgery next week. Anthony Davis was named to replace Griffin in the 12 man roster for Team USA. Griffin is expected to miss at least 8 weeks but should be ready to go by the time training camps begin in October.