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Calvin Johnson Admits to Playing 2012-13 Season with 3 Broken Fingers

John Rozum — Mon, 20 May 2013 17:12:37 -0400

Calvin Johnson's reputation as "Megatron" just became even more impressive after learning that the superstar wide receiver played the 2012-13 NFL season with broken fingers.

According to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News, Johnson endured the pain en route to a record-setting season:

NFL.com's Marc Sessler also reports that Johnson played with three broken fingers "for most of last season":

Megatron on Monday confirmed to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News that he suited up for most of last season with three broken fingers. There was speculation during the season that Johnson's fingers were damaged when they were seen wrapped in bandages. Now we know.

Meanwhile, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reports that Megatron's fingers were not broken, per an unnamed source:

While the team has not yet addressed the contention, a source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that Johnson actually didn’t break any fingers.

This doesn’t change the fact that he suffered some sort of injury to the fingers on his left hand that has left them crooked.

In any case, Megatron basically played with a disfigured hand and still managed to accumulate 1,964 receiving yards on 122 receptions in 2012-13, setting the NFL single-season record for most receiving yards.

Given the nature of the receiver position, simply playing with injured fingers is an impressive feat. But when you also consider he set an NFL record in the process, Johnson's status as the game's best playmaker is only strengthened further.

Factor in the arm strength that quarterback Matthew Stafford puts on the rock, and catching passes is even more difficult. Nevertheless, Johnson remained dependable all year long and crushed the so-called "Madden Curse" into oblivion.

While the Lions finished with a disappointing record of 4-12 last year—last place in the NFC North—it was to no fault of their top offensive weapon. En route to earning another All-Pro selection, Megatron led the NFL in receiving yards for a second straight year.

Regardless of his hand situation, Johnson continues to prove time and again that he is the most reliable wideout the league has to offer.

Johnny Manziel Redux: How Have Previous Heisman Winners Fared the Next Season?

Lisa Horne — Mon, 20 May 2013 17:06:48 -0400

Will Texas A&M quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Johnny "Football" Manziel repeat his 2012 college football performance? Or will he suffer the dreaded sophomore slump?

That's the question on everyone's mind with 100 days left until the first FBS college football game kicks off on August 29. The odds of Manziel winning the Heisman this year are astronomically high because there has only been one back-to-back Heisman winner: Ohio State running back Archie Griffin, who accomplished that feat in 1974-75.

Not many Heisman winners get to challenge for more than one Heisman. They either won it in their last year of NCAA eligibility or declared early for the NFL draft the following year.

In the past 20 years, only four Heisman winners played another year of college football following their Heisman-winning season: Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford, Florida quarterback Tim Tebow, USC quarterback Matt Leinart and Oklahoma quarterback Jason White.

All failed to win another Heisman.

Sam Bradford, quarterback, Oklahoma

Bradford won the 2008 Heisman as a redshirt sophomore. He had the option to declare for the 2009 NFL Draft but instead decided to return for his fourth year. Bradford hurt his shoulder in the first game of the season against BYU and missed three games as a result. Bradford returned to play against Baylor but re-injured his shoulder in the following game against Texas and underwent season-ending surgery.

Tim Tebow, quarterback, Florida

Tebow won the 2007 Heisman Trophy in his sophomore year. The following year the Florida Gators beat the Oklahoma Sooners in the BCS Championship game. Despite receiving the most first-place votes, Tebow finished third behind Texas quarterback Colt McCoy and Heisman-winner Sam Bradford.

What happened? Tebow's passer rating of 172.5 in 2007 was almost identical to his 172.4 in 2008. But his outspoken religious views and awkward throwing motion made him a polarizing figure.

Matt Leinart, quarterback, USC

Leinart won the 2004 Heisman as a junior. The following year someone else on his team would steal the spotlight—running back Reggie Bush. Although Bush did win the 2005 Heisman, he returned it to the Heisman Trust after an NCAA investigation determined he had received impermissible benefits and was an ineligible student-athlete.

Jason White, quarterback, Oklahoma

White won the Heisman in 2003 after rehabbing two knees from ACL surgery the previous two seasons. He received a medical hardship waiver and was granted an extra year of NCAA eligibility. His grit and determination impressed Heisman voters but his stats in 2004—3,205 passing yards, 35 touchdowns and nine interceptions—didn't match his numbers in 2003—3,846 passing yards, 40 touchdowns and eight interceptions.

Manziel is now on the clock. Last year he threw for 3,706 yards, 26 touchdowns and nine interceptions. If he can repeat those numbers and propel his Aggies into the SEC Championship, he should be a Heisman finalist.

Can he win it? As long as Manziel doesn't do anything to hurt his reputation—and that is certainly not a given—he's the front-runner. Playing in a high-profile conference with nearly 350,000 twitter followers means all eyes are on him.

It'll be fun watching him try for a repeat.

What Will Happen When the NFL Pushes Back Draft, Alters League Calendar?

Chris Trapasso — Mon, 20 May 2013 17:02:52 -0400

The NFL is proving it follows Snoop Dogg's credo.

The league certainly keeps its mind on its money and its money on its mind.

ESPN's Adam Schefter tweeted the following, which, in essence, was the resurfacing of rumors that arose in late February:

NFL and NFLPA are on verge of pushing back draft to May and moving up start of league year to before combine, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 20, 2013

Ready for year-round NFL?

Schefter then tweeted changes that could—or will likely—go into effect as early as 2014:

Proposed new league year would start before combine in 2015 and 2016. Change of draft to May effective in 2014.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 20, 2013

Looks like 2014 NFL draft will be held May 15-17. In 2015 and 2016, league year would start early March, combine mid-March.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 20, 2013

How will the NFL calendar change?

What will this all mean?

Right now, the only people who know the NFL's specific intentions regarding a change in schedule are high-ranking NFL and NFLPA officials.

However, this tweet from Schefter from February is extremely relevant now:

Idea of overhauled calendar is to lengthen NFL off-season and make football relevant over longer period with one big event each month.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 22, 2013

While no new developments have been reported about that idea as a whole, it may shed some light on what the NFL has in mind.

Pushing the draft back a few weeks would be pretty inconsequential, really. But if it precipitates more widespread change to the league calendar, it could be significant.

If the league year begins before the combine, it's safe to assume the always chaotic free-agency period would take place prior to the annual Under Armour Olympics. That would be a major alteration, as all 32 franchises would be forced to tweak their entire team-building strategy and scouting timeline altogether.

With the draft in May, it would likely provide more time for prospects to be scrutinized and hyped—if that's even possible—but it would also give draft hopefuls and veterans more time to heal from injuries.

Adjusting to a shortened period to prepare for the regular season would probably be met with some initial criticism by coaches and players, but a two-week difference isn't monumental. Having said that, OTAs would start later, probably sometime in June, which clearly would cut into rookies learning their respective playbooks.

In all likelihood, the NFL would see an increase in profits if the rumored "one-event-per-month" strategy comes to fruition. And for a league that America can't get enough of, one with all the leverage, making money is the top priority.

Follow @ChrisTrapasso

Notre Dame Football: Breaking Down What Makes Louis Nix so Great

Ian Berg — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:59:21 -0400

Louis Nix became a household name last fall by helping to anchor the Notre Dame defensive effort that led to a national title game berth.

Heading into his senior season, he is Mel Kiper’s No. 1 DT (subscription required) in the 2014 draft and there are a few keys to his game that make him the best college has to offer this season along the line.

His first step is his biggest asset, especially considering his 340-pound frame. He is patient in the pile and trusts his instincts. Nix’s most elite quality is his hustle, never quitting on plays and always ending up near the pile.

Penetration

As a nose tackle, Nix is intent on plugging the center for the defense and getting penetration through the center of the line.

How Nix is able to accomplish this is with his explosive first step. For a guy that plays in the 340-pound range, beating a center and guard combo off of the football is impressive. He was able to get past the best last year’s schedule had to offer, including national champion Alabama.

In this clip, you will see him pushing through the talented Alabama front line:

He finished the national title game with a season-high five solo tackles and played his best game on the biggest of stages.

His penetration and explosive first step are what made it possible.

This is one more look at Nix deep in the Tide backfield:

Instinctual Player

At nose tackle, it can be easy to get lost in the shuffle when a pile forms close to the line.

Nix is only 6’3”, but he is able to use his body and eyes to maneuver successfully through large piles up front.

Finding the right pursuit angle on a running back is the difference between a touchdown and two-yard loss. Nix is very good at pushing through traffic and picking the proper approach on the ball-carrier.

There will be times when Nix gets lost with lack of speed, but he always finishes plays and ends up around the football.

Hustle and Finish

The unique part of Nix’s game is his hustle. For a big man, he runs out every single play and at times makes back-side stops.

Plays can be drawn out when a player is looking for extra yards, but rarely do defensive linemen travel the length of the field and kill the ball-carrier. Nix is one of the few players capable of that.

This is a clip of Nix against the Tide where he finishes the play 10 yards downfield:

The original line of scrimmage was the 25, and after forcing A.J. McCarron out of the pocket, Nix finishes the play.

Here is another look at Nix ending up 15 yards downfield in pursuit of a receiver who has caught a screen pass:

When you have a talent like Nix who possesses a never-give-up attitude, championship teams are built. He will be a leader for the Irish defense this fall, but he will also carry the national spotlight at his position.

Follow @ShugJordanPkwy

Emma Hicks Makes Her Mark in Both the MWFL and the WWCFL

Mark Staffieri — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:35:38 -0400

Having competed in the Maritime Women’s Football League and the Western Women’s Canadian Football League, linebacker Emma Hicks has shown herself to be an exceptional football player. The opportunity to participate in both leagues makes Hicks the first to achieve the historic feat.

Currently competing with the Regina Riot of the WWCFL, Hicks also spent time with the Capital Area Lady Gladiators in the MWFL. The experience of competing in the Maritime league with the Lady Gladiators marked her first full season.

“I had a great time playing with the Lady Gladiators last year. That was my first full season of football and I really appreciated the coaching that I received, while also playing with and against some fantastic women. I had a lot of support from the coaches and players, of which I am very thankful.”

Hicks added, “I truly believe they made me a better athlete; having the opportunity to train with particular athletes and learn under knowledgeable coaches, and these relationships continue to mean something off the field.”

While the WWCFL enters its third season, the MWFL has existed for a decade. The subtle differences between the leagues provide Hicks with a unique perspective on the game.

“The Maritime league has some different dynamics, where it's been around for a lot longer (celebrating its 10th season this year) and the teams are closer, and it was really interesting to be a part of. As far as I know, I'm the only one who has played in both leagues.”

A native of New Brunswick, Hicks first played for the Regina Riot in their inaugural season. While she has alternated between the WWCFL and the MWFL, the close-knit feeling that encompasses the culture of the Regina Riot is one that is not lost on her.

“The Regina Riot is my home team. I'm from New Brunswick, but I started my football career (if that's what it's called) here in their rookie season in 2011. I left Regina for school early in that season, only playing two league games with the team.”

"I've kept in touch with them; have been considered a 'Sask girl' by both my Regina team and my New Brunswick team (despite only living here for 5 months before). Since then I've always wanted to come back and play with them again.”

With the province of Saskatchewan showing a remarkable enthusiasm for football of all skill levels, ages and genders, Hicks understands the impact playing in the area has in shaping her career.

“I love the mentality, knowledge, and experience that are here, where football is so much more a part of the culture than in New Brunswick at this time. I had a few conversations with the Riot defensive coaches in preseason this year where we started to talk more seriously about me coming back. I decided to take this opportunity while I have the time, to return to my home team, learn under some great coaches, and continue to develop as a player.”

“My brother lives here as well so it's great to be able to see him again, and it is also an opportunity to explore some work opportunities in another area of the country, as a strength and conditioning coach.”

Among the highlights in her promising career includes being named to the Canadian National Team. The Canadian contingent will be looking to claim the gold medal at the 2013 Women’s Tackle Football Championships. With the opportunity to represent her country, the experience is one of great excitement.

“It really is an honor to be named to the national team, being able to represent my country on the international stage. It's still a bit unreal to me; I had never imagined playing at this level.”

While Hicks is still nascent to football, she has a natural ability to excel at the sport. As an athlete that has always been dedicated to training and success, the years of hard work are yielding pleasant yet positive results on the gridiron.

“I've been playing sports pretty much all my life, always worked hard and loved to train, but I've never been that highly skilled. I'm pretty new to football, but it seems to suit me well. I have learned a lot about the sport over these past couple years, with the help of some great coaches and teammates.”

“I'm really excited to be able to take my game to the next level with this opportunity, playing alongside the best athletes in the country, learning more from the coaches that are a part of this program, and competing against the best in the world with Canada behind us.”

During the 2013 WWCFL season, Hicks was part of an historic moment with the Regina Riot. With the rival Saskatoon Valkyries having never lost a game in franchise history, Hicks and her Riot teammates handed them their first ever loss. Having been part of some lopsided defeats in the early history of the Riot, defeating the Valkyries not only brought redemption, but supplied confidence.

“This first win was huge for us. It was a lot about believing in what we can accomplish and coming together as a team. I was playing with the Riot early in their first season when we lost 56-6 and 42-2 in our first games against them. I moved shortly after that and have since been following the league with a keen eye.”

“I've known where Saskatoon has stood in the league these past two years, and to come back and be a part of this win against them was huge. I think it's good for the league too, anything could happen. Seeing where the Riot has come since our first season is really exciting, and I think it's just one example of how the league and women's programs continue to develop.”

With a break through win against Saskatoon, the Riot are hoping that the epilogue to their season ends in championship glory. With Regina hosting the 2013 WWCFL championship, it is a strong motivational factor for the franchise. In asking what it will take to win the WWCFL championship in 2013, Hicks replied,

“It comes back to the premise behind the win against Saskatoon - a lot of hard work and we have to believe in what we can accomplish as a team. Football is a team sport; that's one of the best things about it.”

“I think we're really starting to come together on both offence and defense; we have to keep making strides in this direction, staying focused and continuing to come together over the rest of the season. It's not going to be easy by any means, there is a lot of great competition out there, but we have some fantastic coaches in place who put a lot of time and effort into our team and they are getting us ready for what we'll face with the rest of the season.”

“All quotes obtained first hand unless otherwise indicated”

Kyle Noke Wants Ultimate Fighter Coaching Job and Then Fight Patrick Cote

Damon Martin — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:35:28 -0400

Former The Ultimate Fighter competitor Kyle Noke is hoping that he can bring his UFC career full circle by putting his name in the hat to become a coach on the new international season of the reality show, which pits his native Australia against Canada.

Noke, who was one of the first fighters to come to prominence out of Australia, has been nursing a wrist injury after having surgery just weeks ago, but he's already targeting his next mission in the UFC.

While he missed out on the first season of the international reality show while fellow countryman George Sotiropoulos took on Ross Pearson, Noke is ready for the challenge in the next version.

"That's something that I definitely want to do, and I think me versus probably Patrick Cote would be the most logical choice for the coaching job," Noke told MMA's Great Debate Radio recently. "I'd love to fight him, I'd love to see it. I know he's been tweeting about it and would love the job also. So we both want the job, let's get in there and do it.

"He's another big guy, he just came down a weight division. I think that would be a great fight, and it would be a great show to have me versus him."

Cote also told Bleacher Report recently, after inking a new multi-fight deal with the UFC, that a job coaching Team Canada on the The Ultimate Fighter would be a dream come true. Just like Noke, Cote is a former contestant on the reality show and has plenty of real world UFC experience to pass on to the next crop of Octagon hopefuls.

For his part more than anything, Noke just wants to be a part of the show so he can continue to help drive the sport of MMA in his native country. While he trains primarily in New Mexico now as part of Team Greg Jackson, Noke still travels home whenever he can to help fighters in Australia as well.

He believes being on the The Ultimate Fighter would be a great showcase to take the sport to the next level, and he wants to be a part of it.

"It would mean a lot to me. I'd love to have the opportunity to coach the young Australians, and help them pursue their dreams and it would mean the world to me," Noke stated. "It's something that I've always wanted to do, and I'd be happy."

Noke thinks that Cote is the natural choice as an opponent and as a fellow coach on the reality show, but no matter who he'd be matched up with, he wants in as the head of Team Australia.

If it's Cote or another Canadian, it really doesn't matter much to Noke. He just wants to be a part of this season and represent Australia like he's been doing since day one when he first stepped on the mats.

"I think it would be the best option for both of us. Either way I don't care who it is," Noke stated. "I want the job and I'm prepared to fight anyone for it. For me, Patrick would probably be the best opposing coach."

Damon Martin is a Featured Columnist for Bleacher Report and all quotes were obtained first hand unless otherwise noted.

Texas A&M Football: Reasonable Goals for Aggies' 2013 Season

Randy Chambers — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:26:35 -0400

The expectations for Texas A&M have skyrocketed since last season. With a Heisman winner at quarterback and 11 victories in year one, many are quick to hop on the bandwagon and pick this team to win the SEC this year.

Let's not jump the gun just yet.

Texas A&M has a great team returning and a head coach in Kevin Sumlin who will keep his squad motivated. However, every team needs to have reasonable goals. Even the best and most talented teams in the country don't always produce as expected.

Here are the reasonable goals for the 2013 Aggies.

Top 25 in Points Per Game

There is a good chance the offense could finish in the top 10 like it did last season, but now is not the time to put pressure on the returning group. The object is to plan reasonable goals and there is no reason a top 25 finish in points per game shouldn't happen. Judging by last season's statistics, anything at 35 points or more should get the job done.

This should be no problem with Johnny Manziel returning for a second season. The quarterback that no defense has been able to figure out yet is good for at least half those points with his dual-threat abilities. Responsible for 21 rushing and 26 passing touchdowns, Manziel is an elite playmaker who will continue to find the end zone.

But this offense is much more than the reigning Heisman winner. Mike Evans has proven to be one of the best receivers in the SEC, while a backfield of Ben Malena, Brandon Williams and Tra Carson is scary. Expect to see more touches for the running backs and less pressure on Manziel to do it all.

There are also elite wide receiver prospects in JaQuay Williams and Ricky Seals-Jones, who will add even more weapons for Manziel. This offense has the potential to be better than it was last season, which should result in a lot of points.

An Improved Defense

The defense remains the huge question mark with this team. After finishing last season ranked ninth in the SEC and losing key guys like Damontre Moore and Sean Porter, there is plenty of room for concern with this unit.

Don't worry Aggies fans, there will be improvement made from last season.

The defensive line is lacking in experience, especially with 2013 recruits expected to play significant roles, but there is plenty of speed and athleticism up front. This should help in the sack department and keep the pass rush consistent like it was last season.

The secondary does feature one of the better cornerback tandems in the SEC in De'Vante Harris and Deshazor Everett, while the linebacker corps has a lot of youth to be excited about. Linebacker is the biggest area of concern with this unit, but recruits Tommy Sanders and Brett Wade have looked sharp and should be able to slide in and make an immediate impact.

Expecting a top five defense in the SEC may be asking for a bit much, but the defense will take steps forward from what we witnessed last year.

10 Victories

Regardless of how potent the offense may be or how much the defense improves, the bottom line is that this team still plays in the toughest division in college football. The Aggies will likely be the underdogs when Alabama comes to town and a trip to Death Valley is another game that could result in a loss. Remember, the Tigers defense did a relentless job of harassing Manziel last year.

Although both of those games could result in victories, it wouldn't be surprising at all to see Texas A&M fall short in both. LSU and Alabama are two proven SEC powerhouse programs and will be eager to show that life isn't as sweet in this conference as it appeared to be last season. The honey moon is over and this will be the year for the Aggies to prove that they are legitimate contenders.

Texas A&M shouldn't have a problem with the rest of the schedule on paper, but those two games against LSU and Alabama could cause trouble.

Follow @Randy_Chambers

Torrey Smith Trolls Skip Bayless on Twitter Regarding Tim Tebow

Jesse Reed — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:21:55 -0400

Professional athletes on Twitter is a gift that keeps on giving, and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith provided the masses with something to talk about on Monday.

ESPN's Skip Bayless is a man who never shies away from bold statements, and oftentimes his statements spark debate and lead to impassioned discussions.

Bayless is apparently tired of Robert Griffin III making headlines on a daily basis. He took to Twitter to voice his displeasure about the exposure RG3 receives, to which Smith offered a valid response:

While it's certainly true RG3 is a mainstay media obsession, he doesn't hold a candle to the exposure media outlets like ESPN and it's show First Take have given to Tebow over the past few years.

Bayless is likely tired of discussing things like RG3's fans giving him a room full of wedding presents. The Washington Redskins quarterback sent out a thank you to all his loving fans who spent money out of their own pockets to bless him and his soon-to-be wife, Rebecca Liddicoat:

Some of Griffin's followers didn't think he should have "allowed" his fans to buy him gifts, and controversy ensued.

From Bayless' message on Twitter, we can deduce that he's getting weary of discussing every minute detail about Griffin's life instead of dealing with "real" news issues.

The problem here is that Bayless can't have it both ways. He has inundated the airwaves, radio waves and print media with Tebowmania since the quarterback entered the league four years ago.

Smith's response points this out beautifully, and Bayless must realize that even though he might not be interested in what RG3 had for breakfast, there will always be fans who are interested in things of this nature.

Fair is fair, and if Tebowmania is allowed to grow and thrive, then RG3-mania should have equal footing.

Follow me on Twitter @JesseReed78

Amar'e Stoudemire Continues to Be Huge Problem for New York Knicks

Michael Fitzpatrick — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:15:25 -0400

As would be expected after the Knicks' Game 6 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Saturday night, many have been quick to lay out a doomsday scenario for the Knicks in the coming years.

The fact of the matter is that, barring one impenetrable, iceberg-sized problem that has been sinking this team for the past two years, they are not as far off as many seem to think.

Needless to say, the iceberg that has been sinking the Knicks goes by the name of Amar’e Stoudemire.

There are certainly many other aspects of the Knicks' 2012-2013 season that can be dissected and criticized.

The Knicks lived and eventually died with the three-point shot, which is always a very risky strategy for any team. The team relied on one player—Carmelo Anthony—to produce instant offense every single night. It was also the oldest team in the history of the NBA, which is not the best label to have when heading into a grueling playoff series against a much younger and more physical Indiana Pacers squad.

These are all very credible criticisms of the Knicks. But no matter which way you throw the blame, it eventually curves like a boomerang back toward Stoudemire.

Anthony and Stoudemire were paid a combined $40.46 million this past season, which is more than 50 percent of the Knicks' team payroll—a payroll that is already $21 million over the salary cap (per Spotrac.com).

Stoudemire has played just 76 games over the past two seasons while raking in $18.22 million in 2011-2012 and nearly $20 million in 2012-2013.

Anthony earned $19.45 million this past season, which is essentially what an NBA leading scorer goes for these days.

It is not by any means out of the ordinary for a team that has true aspirations of contending for an NBA title to devote half of its payroll to two legitimate superstars that it can count on to produce every single night.

The problem with the Knicks is that they have essentially been throwing $20 million down the drain with Stoudemire over the past two years, which creates a very difficult situation for Anthony and the rest of the team.

The Knicks spent nearly $80 million to build a team consisting of two superstars and a group of strong role players.

Yet, for that $80 million, they have gotten a team that has consisted of one superstar and a group of role players that have been asked to do far more than they are capable of.

The Knicks had to rely on J.R. Smith to be a premier scorer this past season.

Smith is not that guy. He is not the Knicks equivalent to Dwyane Wade.

Smith is simply a streaky scorer that the Knicks could have used as a weapon off the bench from time to time when he happened to be on his game.

The Knicks needed a scoring threat down low, so they looked to Tyson Chandler.

Wrong answer.

Chandler is not that guy either. He is and always has been a defensive specialist that excels mostly in grabbing rebounds and protecting the rim.

Now, the purpose of this article is not to blame Stoudemire for all of the Knicks' troubles as if he had just decided to take a few extended vacations over the past two years.

Stoudemire has suffered legitimate injuries which have come through no fault of his own.

However, the bottom line is that the Knicks have been down a 25-point-per-game, $20-million-per-year superstar for two years now, which makes winning a very difficult task despite Anthony’s 28 points per game during the 2012-2013 season.

So what are the Knicks’ options moving forward?

Well, it would be foolish for the Knicks to rebuild at this point, as they will literally be wasting the prime years of Anthony’s career while trying to rebuild around him.

Signing a big-time free agent or trading for another legitimate scoring threat is also not much of an option for the Knicks for two reasons.

The first is that they don’t really have a stock of players that they could trade away for a steady scoring threat. Stoudemire would be the only player with enough name recognition to command some attention, but that is more the Stoudemire of 2006-2011.

Unless the Knicks can find a GM out there who has been living under a rock for the past two years, Stoudemire is a risk that no one will be willing to take on at $20 million per year.

The Knicks also have the sixth-highest payroll in the league. Adding another $15 million salary is not really an option right now. As it stands, the Knicks are facing the very real possibility that Stoudemire might wind up being their version of Bobby Bonilla…only the NBA happens to have a salary cap.

What the Knicks are ultimately faced with is the hope that Stoudemire can somehow come back and be the nightly 25-point, two-block and eight-rebound guy that they are shelling out $20 million for.

They could also hope that a player such as Smith or Iman Shumpert can evolve into a consistent scoring threat that the team can count on for 20 points per night.

It’s clear that something must change prior to next season if the Knicks truly want to contend for the title, but it is also clear that very few, if any, roster changes will take place during the offseason.

The Knicks' only option for the 2013-2014 season is to improve from within, which is something that New York sports fans are not used to hearing.

Danielle Goyette Becomes Third Canadian Woman Inducted into IIHF Hall of Fame

Mark Staffieri — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:06:28 -0400

Truly a deserving candidate, Danielle Goyette has become the third Canadian woman (and sixth overall) inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame. She follows in the footsteps of fellow Canadians Angela James and Geraldine Heaney, who were both inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation's Hall of Fame in 2008.

Hailing from St. Nazaire, Quebec, Goyette becomes the first women’s hockey player from Quebec inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame. With 219 career points with the Canadian National Women’s Team, she ranks fourth overall, respectively.

Goyette would relocate to Calgary (home of the national headquarters of Hockey Canada) in 1996 to improve her English language skills and dedicate herself to training with the national team. In addition, she would have a distinguished career with the Calgary Oval X-Treme of the now defunct National Women’s Hockey League.

With the Oval X-Treme, Goyette would compete in several Esso Women’s Nationals for the right to win the Abby Hoffman Cup.

Throughout her storied playing career, Goyette always maintained a quiet strength and dignity. In 12 major women’s hockey competitions (three Winter Games and nine IIHF Women’s Worlds), Goyette would claim 10 gold medals. The only silver medal efforts came at the 1998 Nagano Winter Games and the 2005 IIHF Women’s Worlds (which was the first time that the USA claimed the gold medal).

Stoic and hard-working, Goyette was a picture of longevity. Her final appearance for Canada came at the age of 41 years old in 2007. Her first appearance for Canada came at the 1992 IIHF Women’s World Championships (which was also the first appearance of Manon Rheaume). She would log 10 points as Canada claimed their second consecutive gold medal.

She would bookend her career with an 11-point output to win another gold medal in 2007. That gold medal would be enhanced, as it came on home soil since Winnipeg, Manitoba hosted the 2007 IIHF Women’s World Championships.

Her greatest legacy may have come at the 2006 Torino Winter Games. As the oldest player on the Canadian roster, she became the first 40 year-old to win a gold medal for Canada’s women’s team. In addition, she was Canada’s flag bearer for the opening ceremonies at Torino.

Despite retirement from competition in 2007, Goyette has managed to extend her hockey legacy. Of note, Goyette helped to revive the Dinos, the University of Calgary women’s hockey program.

She would manage to recruit top women’s hockey talent to the team, such as Hayley Wickenheiser and Russia’s Iya Gavrilova. The results paid remarkable dividends for Goyette and her Dinos teams. The Dinos would win the gold medal at the 2012 Canadian Interuniversity Sport National Championships, while earning a silver medal in 2013, respectively.

Currently, Goyette has assumed a new role. Along with fellow CIS coaches Dan Church (York University) and Lisa Haley-Jordan (Ryerson University), she coaches staff for the Canadian national team.

While the result was a silver medal at the 2013 IIHF Women’s World Championships, the next objective is the 2014 Sochi Winter Games. Should Goyette help lead Canada to a golden redemption in Sochi, it would help to solidify her legacy as a living legend in women’s hockey.

NBA Playoffs: Keys for the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals

Andy Hu — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:03:05 -0400

The Indiana Pacers are set to battle against the Miami Heat in a rematch of last year's Eastern Conference Semifinals match up. Both teams have similar rosters as last postseason, but there has also been a few key role players added to each respective team that has helped them get to this point in the playoffs.

The Pacers fell 4-2 after leading the series 2-1, and the Heat are much better this year than any previous year during the Big Three era.

If the Pacers want to overcome the defending champions, they will need to play a perfect series and limit their mistakes that they've become accustomed to making in the series against the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks.

This slideshow will evaluate the keys to the Pacers' success against the Heat and how they could utilize their advantages to the fullest extent.

Begin Slideshow

Andre Ward Decides to Relinquish WBC Super Middleweight Emeritus Title

Richard Langford — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:58:44 -0400

Andre Ward is upset with the WBC for stripping him of his title, and he's saying thanks, but no thanks for his champion emeritus status at 168 pounds in the WBC.

Ward released a statement regarding his carefully thought-out decision to abandon his emeritus status. It is provided in full by the World Boxing News' Phil D. Jay. Here is an excerpt:

After careful thought and consideration with my family and team, I have decided to relinquish my WBC Super Middleweight World Champion Emeritus Title.

...I think the fans know and appreciate that I am the Super Middleweight Champion of the World, and I trust that I will continue to be recognized assuch. I am back in training again, feeling great, and excited about my return to the ring.

All of this stems from a surgery (h/t Dan Rafael of ESPN.com) the 29-year-old Ward (26-0, 14 KOs) had on his shoulder in January of this year.

He originally injured his shoulder in November of 2012 while training for a Jan. 26 title defense against former middleweight champion Kelly Pavlik. At the time of the injury, he followed doctors' advice of rest and rehabilitation for his injury, but after he failed to see improvement, he sought a second opinion (per Rafael).

That is when a small tear was discovered and the surgery was set in motion. During the process of his recovery, the WBC decided to strip him of his champion status, which he had held since December of 2011 when he beat Carl Froch.

The WBC not only cited his shoulder injury, but also the broken hand he suffered while beating Froch and the absences from the ring these injuries caused.

In his statement, Ward says he spoke with his manager and lawyer and they feel the WBC did not have the right to make the move, or that due process was done.

Sakio Bika and Marco Antonio Periban will battle for the vacant WBC title, according to Jay.

As for Ward, who is still The Ring's and WBA's super middleweight champion, he recently said that he'd like to get back in the ring in September and have two fights this year.

If this proves to be the case, the WBC could potentially regret ever making this needless move in the first place.

Madden NFL 25: Connected Franchise Featuring Owner Mode

Tim Currie — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:54:22 -0400

Madden 25 Connected Franchise trailer featuring Owner Mode. Presenting the official first look at the all-new Connected Franchise experience with Owner Mode in Madden NFL 25. Take control of your favorite player, coach or owner and lead your team to the championship.

Allam British Open Squash Championships 2013: Dates, Schedule and Draw Info

Timothy Rapp — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:53:08 -0400

They call it the Wimbledon of Squash, and all eyes will be on Hull this week as the British Open Squash Championship is upon us.

Since its inception in 1930, this tournament has been the prized jewel of the squash world and is the oldest tournament on both the PSA and WSA tours. And with the big names descending on Hull this week, the tournament once again promises to be an excellent showcase for the sport.

Let's preview this year's event.

When: Saturday, May 18 to Sunday, May 26

Where: KC Stadium; Hull, England

Draw: The complete men's draw can be found here, the women here and the Masters draw here.

Schedule

Monday, May 20

Men's Round 1 – KC Stadium

Women's Qualifying Round 2 – Pontefract

Tuesday, May 21

Men's Round 1 – KC Stadium

Women's Round 1 – Pontefract

Wednesday, May 22

Men and Women Round 2 – KC Stadium

Thursday, May 23

Men and Women Round 2 – KC Stadium

Friday, May 24

Quarterfinals – KC Stadium

Saturday, May 25

Semifinals – KC Stadium

Sunday, May 26

Finals – KC Stadium

May 22-26

Masters Championships – Hull University

Preview

On the men's side, the players to watch are Sheffield's Nick Matthew and Cairo's Ramy Ashour.

Matthew is the tournament's No. 2 seed and a three-time winner of the British Open (2006, 2009, 2012), while Ashour is the defending world championship title holder (his second) and the PSA's top-ranked player.

Ashour was dominant in 2012, winning five titles, including the Australian Open, U.S. Open, Hong Kong Open and World Championship. With a 36-match winning streak heading into the British Open, it's hard to see Ashour losing.

Other players to keep an eye on include England's James Willstrop, France's Grégory Gaultier and rising star Mohamed El Shorbagy.

For the women, it is all about Malaysia's Nicol David. She's won four British Open titles since 2006, is currently the top-ranked player in the WSA and won a staggering eight titles last season.

She'll be contested by England's Laura Massaro, the No. 2 seed, who lost to David in three finals in 2012. Surely, she'll be looking for revenge. And don't sleep on No. 3 seed Raneem El Weleily, who has beaten David in two of their last four meetings in the past two years (including two wins in finals) and already won the Cleveland Classic this year.

Other contenders include Alison Waters, Nour El Sherbini and Joelle King.

Analyzing the Point Spreads in Week 1 SEC Football Games

Barrett Sallee — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:47:13 -0400

It's never too early to start picking Week 1 games, and luckily for us, the good folks at Beyond The Bets pointed out over the weekend that BetOnline.com has point spreads for 44 Week 1 games.

With a lineup filled with stellar out-of-conference matchups and one SEC game on the docket, there's plenty of intrigue in these point spreads for fans of SEC schools.

Who's overvalued, who's undervalued and what games could move between now and the time toe meets leather? Let's take a look at each of the games listed in this slideshow.

Begin Slideshow

TNA: Can Bobby Roode and James Storm Break the Beer Money Curse?

Shane Combs — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:45:01 -0400

In the beginning, there was Beer Money.

When I say beginning, I don't mean beginning-beginning, because both Bobby Roode and James Storm came to Beer Money with stories of their own. But both men had stalled out. Both men needed direction. And the answer came in opposites: Put the carefree Cowboy with the methodical and wealthy warrior. It's not like either one had anything else to do.

With that, Beer Money was born, and what came of it, for both Bobby Roode and James Storm, was nothing short of a blessing.

They became one of the most successful and decorated tag teams in TNA history. Even more, they became a TNA originals team that people would pay to see. From their entrance (Beer/Money) to what they could do in the ring, TNA had created a team that would stand the test of time against the great tag teams from WCW and WWF/E history.

But you know what they say about all good things? They must come to an end. Beer Money did come to an end, literally at the hand of Bobby Roode. Singles ambitions couldn't break them up. The Bound for Glory Series couldn't break them up. James Storm watching Bobby Roode challenge for the world title and Bobby Roode watching James Storm win the world title couldn't break them up.

But the Cowboy's beer bottle in the hand of his best friend Bobby Roode, that—with the TNA Championship on the line—could and did break them up.

And still, from late-2011 all the way to Bound for Glory 2012, what a blessing Beer Money remained for both Bobby Roode and James Storm.

From it we received one of the most storied rivalries in the history of pro wrestling. From it, like in Literature, two men were marked forever as part of each other's lives. Wins and losses couldn't change it, nor could steel cages and street fights.

But something happened on the way to Bound for Glory 2012. Something that would cause a dip in the blessed road that had been Bobby Roode and James Storm, even post-Beer Money.

James Storm couldn't win the Bound for Glory Series and Bobby Roode couldn't hold on to the TNA Championship.

Had it been what everyone thought it would be--Bobby Roode defending against James Storm at Bound for Glory 2012--it would have marked Beer Money as not only one of the most successful tag teams of all-time, but perhaps the most successful duo, post-breakup.

If Bobby Roode had carried the belt into Bound for Glory and dropped it to the Cowboy, it would have forever elevated both members of Beer Money to the absolute top of TNA, and with it, would have set them up to dominate the heavyweight title.

But instead of taking that step up, the former members of Beer Money took a step down at Bound for Glory 2012.

Don't get me wrong. It wasn't because of the match. Those two men put together a contest that should have been the 2012 Match of the Year.

But with it not being for the heavyweight title, they were on their way down, together. They would fall to a place where they remain to this day--somewhere between the very top of the roster and the mid-card.

And what was settled by the street fight in 2012? What was settled when the Cowboy finally turned the beer bottle on Bobby Roode and broke it over his head, just as Roode had done the year before?

Last week, over half a year after Storm got his revenge on Roode, we saw the Cowboy again standing over Roode, with a beer bottle in his hand, thinking of smashing it over his former best friend's head.

How many bottles does it take to make things right and settled?

This is the curse of Beer Money.

Two men, marked together, bound together, unable to relinquish the past and fully move on.

We don't see it often. A tag team breaks up and we expect one to be Shawn Michaels and the other to be Marty Jannetty. We expect one to thrive and one to falter. We expect one to stay and the other to go.

But what happens when both men are great? When neither man falters? When neither man will go?

Just today a friend and someone who reads most of my TNA columns messaged me to compare Bobby Roode and James Storm to Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage.

What did he mean?

Two men who were once a team, but became something else altogether. Not friends or enemies, something so much more complicated.

Two men bound together, for better and worse.

Two men who will always strive for the same spot.

These days many people expect Bobby Roode to come to the light, at least enough to battle Aces and Eights. Some, seeing the recent actions of James Storm, wouldn't be surprised by a heel turn.

What would happen if, for a short time, or longer, Bobby Roode and James Storm became Beer Money again?

Is it possible to right the wrongs made so long ago?

Can these men un-bad the blood between them?

If they were to join forces at some juncture, what would happen when they had to go their separate ways again?

Would Bobby Roode do the same thing over, betraying James Storm? Would the Cowboy think fast and beat Bobby Roode to the punch?

Or would they, could they, go their separate ways in a way where neither man is hurt, or crossed?

Could they exist together, in one company, with only one world title, and untangle themselves from the two-year narrative that has been Roode vs. Storm, post-Beer Money?

It might be futile to ask, like can the leopard change its spots.

But can Bobby Roode and James Storm ever change the page on their rivalry? Can they exist without the bad blood?

Can they one day break the Beer Money curse and let go of the hard feelings they both still carry around?

This much is true: With both men in the tag title match at Slammiversary, and with James Storm bringing a mystery partner, the relationship between the former Beer Money will soon take on another page in one of the most storied relationships in modern pro wrestling.

Yes, in the beginning there was Beer Money.

In the middle, too.

And Beer Money may just be with these two men until the very end.

Shane Combs is a pro wrestling fan since 1991, now bringing TNA fans a place to read about and discuss IMPACT Wrestling. Follow on Twitter @ IMPCTRevolution. 16 new followers in the last two days. Looking for 15 more by the end of May!

Breaking Down Jurickson Profar's Fantasy Value with Ian Kinsler on DL

Justin Onslow — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:43:44 -0400

There aren’t many teams in Major League Baseball that can replace an injured star with a potential superstar in the making.

However, that’s exactly what the Texas Rangers are attempting to do in recalling top prospect Jurickson Profar from Triple-A Round Rock after placing second baseman Ian Kinsler on the 15-day disabled list with bruised ribs, as reported by USA Today.

Kinsler has jumped off to a terrific start in 2013 (.302/.369/.500), and his starting spot is in no danger of drying up upon his return, but that doesn’t mean Profar isn’t worth an add in most fantasy formats.

The 20-year-old—widely regarded as the top prospect in baseball—is well on his way to an extended stint in the bigs at some point this season. Since May 8, the shortstop is hitting .415 with a .610 slugging percentage and an on-base plus slugging of 1.076. After a slow start, he’s starting to look like the superstar many expect him to be in the very near future.

Of course, minor league success doesn’t always translate to production at the big league level, but he’ll likely have an opportunity to prove his worth in Kinsler’s stead. He’s certainly worth a short-term add in deep formats.

But Profar’s reappearance at the big league level (he hit .176 in nine games with the Rangers last season) is a terrific sign for fantasy owners with an extra roster spot hoping to cash in on a high-upside prospect toward the end of the fantasy season.

Despite playing 312 games in the last two seasons, Kinsler missed 59 games in 2010 and 41 games in 2008, highlighting some durability concerns that could mean an extended stay for Profar should Kinsler run into further injury problems this season.

The Baseball America preseason No. 1 prospect has a big opportunity to show what he can do in a starting role. If Profar displays the five-tool skill set that has everyone’s attention, it will be extremely hard for the Rangers to not find a larger role for the 20-year-old at some point this season.

Now owned in 55 percent of Yahoo! Fantasy leagues, Profar’s fantasy value is skyrocketing—and it’s easy to understand why. Owners looking for a long-term starting option need not apply, but he’s certainly worth a roster spot for owners in need of short-term production and a potential utility player with huge potential later in the year.

Georgia Football: 5 Most Unheralded Players on the Roster

Jace Jordan — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:42:45 -0400

The Georgia Bulldogs have a roster loaded with talent, as star players like quarterback Aaron Murray and running backs Todd Gurley and Keith Marshall come back, but some key contributors fly under the radar. These players are important to the success of the team, but some fans may not even know their names.

Here are five Georgia Bulldogs who deserve more appreciation.

Begin Slideshow

UFC 160: Predictions You Can Take to the Bank

Jeremy Botter — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:42:01 -0400

I have to be honest: It's going to be nice to put all of the Vitor Belfort/TRT nonsense behind us for a few days and focus on fights again.

The discussion centering around performance enhancing drugs is an important one, and I'm sure it's one that will continue well into the future, but for now we can look to Saturday night and the UFC 160 fight card in Las Vegas.

Unfortunately, the UFC 160 main event isn't one that many folks will get all that excited about because we just saw it a year ago and there isn't much optimism that anything will be different this time around. But anything can happen in mixed martial arts.

And besides, there's plenty to be excited about on the rest of the card. Today, I'm going to take a look at each of the main card fights and give you some predictions. After you're done reading, I'd like for you to leave your own predictions in the comments below.

Begin Slideshow

WWE Raw: Live Results, Reaction and Analysis of Post-Extreme Rules Show

The Doctor Chris Mueller — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:39:14 -0400

Welcome to the Bleacher Report live coverage for the post-Extreme Rules episode of Raw.

Tonight's show will feature all the fallout from Extreme Rules, including Del Rio's No.1 contender win, John Cena's status and Brock Lesnar's win over Triple H.

The Shield's members all hold WWE gold now, so expect some kind of statement from the group regarding its future.

We could also see AJ take on Kaitlyn for the Divas title as well as the possible returns of CM Punk and Dolph Ziggler.

Can AJ win the Divas title to make her and Dolph Ziggler the most powerful couple in WWE?

How will Ziggler respond to Alberto Del Rio's win at ER?

What will Ryback do after failing to win the WWE title?

What feuds will continue through WWE Payback in Chicago?

And lastly, will Christian make his long-awaited return to WWE?

There is a lot that can happen in the span of a three-hour show, so make sure to bookmark this page and come back tonight at the start of the show for live coverage of all the Extreme Rules fallout on Raw.

Follow me on Twitter @BR_Doctor

John Cholish: UFC Underpays Fighters, Many Don't Break Even

Scott Harris — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:35:34 -0400

Former UFC lightweight John Cholish, who abruptly retired before his loss Saturday night at UFC on FX 8, said Monday that he retired from fighting because his pay was too low.

“I can say from how I’ve been treated directly and on my understanding of what the UFC takes in on an annual basis that they could compensate the lower-level fighters…and even the upper-level fighters a little bit better," Cholish said Monday on The MMA Hour broadcast.

The issue of fighter pay has long been a radioactive topic for MMA in general and particularly for the UFC, a promotion that has long defended itself against claims of undercompensation and resisted calls for reform but does not formally release fighter salary or revenue figures.

Cholish, 29, finished 8-3 in his MMA career and 1-2 in the UFC Octagon. Cholish, who also works full time for an energy commodities brokerage firm on Wall Street, said he had spoken with other fighters and professionals in and around the sport and in both the UFC and other promotions who share the belief that fighters are underpaid.

To date, however, few have spoken out on the issue. Apparently, as a result of his public stance on such a sensitive topic, Cholish said an unnamed fighter who also was on the UFC on FX 8 card Saturday refused to take a picture with Cholish.

“I just think a lot of fighters feel the same exact way I do but are just in a situation or a position where for lack of a better word they’re just scared to speak out because they’re worried about the repercussions,” Cholish said.

Cholish said he personally earned $8,000 to show up for his fight Saturday night, with another $8,000 if he won (he lost to Gleison Tibau). However, Cholish said he "probably won't receive any money" for his efforts after subtracting expenses. Cholish estimated that the costs of his camp and for his team to travel to Brazil for UFC on FX 8 would probably total between $5,000 and $10,000. Those costs included medical tests, extra visas, licensing fees and payments to coaches and management.

“I think if you’re a fighter on the lower level you should at least be getting enough income win or lose in your fight so that...you can go into that fight fully focused on the fight,” Cholish said. “I don’t understand how [lower-level fighters] can live off the income at this level.”

Cholish said a relatively small difference—adding "$5,000 or $10,000" to the base pay of lower-level fighters—could go a long way for fighters.

"Going into these fights, I knew I was going to lose money," Cholish said. "If I'm losing money, is it really something I want to keep doing, especially if I'm putting myself at risk?"

Thomas Muller: From Nightmare Season to Bayern Hero

Jerrad Peters — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:35:33 -0400

Just over a year ago, Thomas Muller scored in a Champions League final.

With barely seven minutes remaining in a match that looked to be headed to extra time, he peeled off Ashley Cole and directed a downward header from Bastian Schweinsteiger’s cross that hit the ground before beating Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech and bulging the roof of the net.

It was only the then-22-year-old’s second Champions League goal of the campaign, and while his season had been an overall disappointment, the tally in Europe’s biggest club contest seemed sure to cheer him, his club and its fans.

But it wasn’t to be.

In the 88th minute, Didier Drogba equalized for the Premier League side. After a pair of scoreless 15-minute sessions, the Blues won their first European Cup on penalties.

A week earlier, Bayern had been crushed in the DfB Pokal final by Borussia Dortmund. Some weeks before that, they had dropped out of the title race as well. Through it all, Muller managed only seven Bundesliga goals and 11 in all competitions—his worst record since breaking into the first team in 2009.

Defeat for Bayern, defeat for Muller.

The summer may have brought rest, but it came with trepidation about the coming season as well. Could the club and the player survive another annus horribilis?

Fast-forward 11 months.

Once again, Bayern found themselves in a Champions League semifinal—this time against Barcelona—and in one of the more monumental matches in recent times, Muller scored twice as his side romped to a 4-0 win at Allianz Arena.

A week later, he found the back of the net once again as Bayern put the finishing touches on a 7-0 aggregate win over the Catalans.

Coming into this season’s Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund—Bayern and Muller’s second in as many years—Muller has 22 goals to his name, eight of which have come in Europe’s most prestigious club competition. He also finished second only to teammate Franck Ribery on the Bundesliga assist chart.

Since the German Super Cup match against Dortmund that kicked off the campaign in August, Muller has been a man on a mission. He scored just 11 minutes into that contest and found the back of the net in Bayern’s first Bundesliga match as well.

So quickly did he hit the ground running that manager Jupp Heynckes was forced to drop Arjen Robben to make room for him. Out on the right of the Bayern attack (which is where he also operates for Germany), he rediscovered his game.

And his game is all about space.

With four full seasons at one of the biggest clubs in the world already under his belt, it’s sometimes easy to forget that Muller is still only 23. It’s easier still when you watch him play—so instinctive is his movement off the ball, so clever his interactions with his teammates that he often looks like an attacker much older than he actually is.

But it took an injury to Toni Kroos for him to really get the chance to shine.

After his fellow Germany international had been ruled out for the remainder of the season with an adductor injury in early April, Muller moved back into the middle and Robben took up his old position on the right.

With the Dutchman on one side and Ribery on the other, Muller’s instincts were given a dual barrel and the trio has been shooting goals for fun ever since.

Still, there’s a couple more matches to play.

Even with a record-setting Bundesliga season and upcoming DfB Pokal final against Stuttgart, the campaign will once again be seen as a failure if Bayern can’t lift the European Cup at Wembley on Saturday.

Muller, however, has proven his point.

Win or lose in the Champions League final, he has rediscovered the form that made him the top young player at the 2010 World Cup. He has turned the disappointment of last season into the ecstasy of this one—an annus horribilis into an annus mirabilis.

Follow @jerradpeters

Robinson Cano Delights Leukemia Patient with Surpise Ice Cream Truck Visit

Gabe Zaldivar — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:34:43 -0400

Nick D’Annibale is a 13-year-old with leukemia who just about adores Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano. On May 17, he got to meet him.

MLB.com (h/t Big Lead) has a full report on the beautiful moment when a young fan saw his sports hero come out from an ice cream truck to play some Wiffle ball.

It all goes down as D'Annibale, a New Jersey native who is recovering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia, was hanging out with MLB Fan Cave's crew.

D'Annibale, who is recovering from a form of leukemia, got to tour the Fan Cave on Friday morning, and then the Cave Dwellers brought him outside for a game of Wiffle ball on Bond Street. And then, after D'Annibale had hit several sizzling line drives, the biggest surprise happened.

Every kid understands the sight and sound of an ice cream truck means guaranteed treats are on their way. Little did D'Annibale know that this particular truck would yield an afternoon of playing Wiffle ball with an MLB All Star.

It was a fantastic moment for a young man who has been through an exhausting battle. As the report states, D'Annibale was diagnosed with leukemia in November of 2011, which then mandated extensive treatment that drained a great deal of his strength.

Cano not only showed up to meet his fan, he played Wiffle ball, ate ice cream and signed the jersey of a very enthusiastic D'Annibale.

As for the signature, Cano placed the following message on his fan's back: "To Nic: God Bless. Your biggest fan, Robinson Cano #24."

Cano is off to another great season, leading a Yankees team doubted by many pundits to first place in the AL East.

Still, despite all of Cano's on-the-field heroics, this tiny gesture will be the one that sticks with D'Annibale and many other fans for a lifetime.

Hit me up on Twitter for more amazing sports stories: Follow @gabezal

Brock Lesnar Will Be the Big Challenger for John Cena at SummerSlam

Justin LaBar — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:30:54 -0400

Brock Lesnar decisively won the rubber match against Triple H at Extreme Rules― likely because the WWE is setting him up to be the next big challenger for John Cena.

Lesnar looked more dangerous and stronger than anyone else at Extreme Rules. He beat Triple H in a cage with the Cerebral Assassin's own sledgehammer. Now that he has beat one god, he must prepare to go against another.

This was all done to position Lesnar to help carry a big main event for SummerSlam with John Cena.

The Rock versus Lesnar won't happen until WrestleMania 30, if at all. The Rock's schedule and health are going to see to that. WWE needs a main event with big names for their summer classic and Lesnar vs. Cena is it.

The Rock and Cena fought at WrestleMania 28. They fought again at WrestleMania 29, this time for the WWE title. The Rock and Cena at WrestleMania 28 drew big. So, they headlined WrestleMania 29. Lesnar vs. Cena at Extreme Rules 2012 drew big in Chicago and on pay-per-view. It also didn't have a title on the line.

Lesnar vs. Cena is the best move the WWE can realistically make.

The feud consists of Lesnar, who is a great heel, against Cena, who is the poster boy. Paul Heyman could sell Lindsay Lohan as straight edge. It will all go down in Los Angeles at the Staples Center. A big fight. WWE has nothing else that can create that.

Ryback won't even win the title once before then. CM Punk should be back, but he is best served out of the title picture right now. The Undertaker won't be there. The Rock won't be there. Triple H will be there, but I would bet any money he's working a summer feud involving The Shield.

There is a lot to look forward to with Lesnar and Cena at SummerSlam. Their match for Extreme Rules last year was entertaining. It was done correctly for the most part. It wasn't a “fake wrestling” match but came off as a fight. Cena got the miraculous comeback win which brought everyone back to reality, but it provided a lot of entertainment prior nonetheless. I was there live—the energy was strong.

That was a quick hit, because The Rock just left after being back for the first time in a while, so they needed to keep pace. Lesnar just returned, so they hurried him into a match to capitalize on having him on the payroll.

This time, they have ample time to set up a story that builds for SummerSlam. They have the addition of Heyman narrating, especially the weeks Lesnar isn't there live. Plus, they have the WWE Championship on the line.

Hardcore fans will roll their eyes because they firmly believe, and are probably right, that Cena won't drop the title to Lesnar at SummerSlam.

The thing is, those hardcore fans are going to watch and buy regardless, because that's what they do. The casual fan is intrigued because they buy only what it presented to them by the official presenter, in this case the WWE, which is that Lesnar is a dangerous man who has destroyed Triple H and that he wants to do the same to Cena while taking his title.

Given how WWE has began to build up Lesnar and his background as a fighter, again, it's the best WWE has to offer for the summer stage.

Follow @JustinLaBar

Stevan Jovetic: Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Joe Krishnan — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:21:58 -0400

Fiorentina were moments away from securing Champions League football for next season, but Milan's last-gasp victory over Siena means the club will have to settle for the Europa League instead. And they could be dealt with another blow this summer.

The Viola will have a fight on their hands to keep their highly-rated forward Stevan Jovetic at the Artemio Franchi, who is currently being courted by several clubs across Europe after some impressive performances in the Serie A.

Now we take a look at how the former Partizan forward has performed this season, which clubs are queuing for his signature and a brief scouting guide to the Montenegro striker, along with a few details as to where he might be plying his trade next season.

AGE: 23

CONTRACT SITUATION: Jovetic signed a new five-year deal in October 2011, and is contracted to the Italian side until the summer of 2016.

CAREER STOPS: Partizan Belgrade (2006-2008), Fiorentina (2008-present)

CURRENT CAMPAIGN: Serie A: 31 games, 13 goals, 5 assists (WhoScored)

VIDEO SHOWREEL:

SCOUTING GUIDE

An elegant forward, Stevan Jovetic relies more on his technical quality than his pace. Operating more as a second striker as opposed to a lone, out-and-out frontman, this is reflected in his goal tally.

It's fair to say he is not quite as prolific as other Serie A strikers, but he combines both creativity and finishing into his game. Jovetic likes to drop into pockets of space and tends to play just off the main striker for both Fiorentina and his country Montenegro in the "No.10" role.

WHERE NEXT

Jovetic still has three years remaining on the deal he signed back in October 2011, and with that, he has never publicly stated his intention to leave Florence, where he has been based for the last five years.

However, the 23-year-old did recently reveal he was flattered to be linked with a move to Arsenal (Goal.com) and with Juventus also showing a long-standing interest in the talented forward (Goal.com), a move seems to be on the cards.

Obviously there are some hindrances which could block a move away from Fiorentina; a move abroad would suit the club much better than selling to a rival such as Juventus, and despite interest from Arsenal, the player's wage demands as well as the hefty fee could see a move fall through.

According to the Express, Manchester City were said to be targeting Jovetic before Roberto Mancini was sacked last week, and although they are one of few who could afford the Montenegrin native, their interest could die down depending on who takes over at the Etihad Stadium.

Jovetic faces an uncertain summer as clubs weigh up their bids, but another season in Serie A and in the Europa League would do no harm to his development should no suitable offer arrive.

College Football Programs Who's Rivals Are Dominating 2014 Recruiting Trail

Edwin Weathersby — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:18:49 -0400

There's nothing that stings more (aside from a big de-commitment) than to see your rivals enjoying a significantly better recruiting year than you. This year, there are several cases of just that and some top programs are feeling stung.

From a few SEC teams being envious of several others to two Bluegrass State programs going neck and neck, envy is live and well in college football recruiting. There's even a 3-way tussle between Notre Dame, USC and UCLA. Also, in regards to the Red River Rivalry, come inside to see which of these two rivals is playing catch up to the other on the 2014 recruiting trail.

Here are some college football programs who's rivals are dominating 2014 recruiting.

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Inter Milan Summer Transfer News: Tracking Latest Rumours, Updates

Mikhail Turner — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:17:00 -0400

With the Serie A season over, Bleacher Report is looking to bring you all the latest updates concerning Inter Milan's transfer rumours.

Inter have suffered through a poor season by their standards, and there'll be plenty of transfer news concerning the club during the summer.

Inter president Massimo Moratti has made it clear that he's planning to freshen up the side, per FoxSports.

Here's the latest transfer news regarding Inter.

LAST UPDATE: MONDAY, MAY 20

Unless otherwise stated, all statistics courtesy of ESPN FC and WhoScored.com.

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Shane Mosley Doesn't Realize It's Time to Say Goodbye

Steve Silverman — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:13:09 -0400

Sooner or later, all fighters get the message that it's time to retire.

Count Shane Mosley in the group who will get the message later.

Mosley won a decision over a fighter named Pablo Cesar Cano on Saturday. It was Mosley's first victory since 2009 and the narrow decision was enough for Mosley to send out an Instagram announcement that he was going to continue his boxing career and he has no plans to retire yet.

Mosley (47-8-1) has been fighting professionally since 1993. He fought as an amateur long before that. He is 41 years old and he has little of the speed and quickness that marked his prime fighting years.

But it's hard for fighters to say goodbye, especially for those who have been champions and among the great pound-for-pound fighters of his era. Fame is addicting to all athletes; boxers seem to get caught in its anaconda-like grip more than most.

Some of the most noteworthy fighters who stayed around too long include Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, Sugar Ray Leonard, Evander Holyfield and Julio Cesar Chavez.

There's one obvious reason that boxers refuse to hang up their gloves once their reflexes start to dull, their speed starts to wane and their combinations lose their sting.

Money.

Mosley, who has been through a divorce, said on Twitter that he still has enough money and he is not forced to remain in the ring to survive economically.

My #boxing post about @sugarshanem's future as an active fighter is now on @yahoosports sports.yahoo.com/blogs/boxing/s…
— Kevin Iole (@KevinI) May 20, 2013

It's the public adulation—or the memory of it—that keeps fighters putting their bodies at risk.

Mosley has to know his days of fighting Manny Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather and Saul "Canelo" Alvarez are over.

His victory over Cano was about one year after Alvarez trounced him and took a lopsided decision. Pacquiao took him apart in May, 2011 in a one-sided decision. Mayweather did the same to him in May, 2010.

Mosley has not won a fight since he pounded out a TKO over Antonio Margarito in September, 2009. Mosley is 3-4-1 in his last eight fights.

Mosley could put himself on a dangerous path. If he decides he can work himself back into contention by beating inexperienced or lesser fighters, he could eventually get himself a higher profile fight.

What happens then? What happens if he gets back into the ring with an angry and motivated fighter like Robert Guerrero or Devon Alexander? That's when Mosley could find himself flat on his back and in serious trouble.

That's how older fighters get hurt badly.

But Mosley, who once had a dominating skill set, is not worried about that. He wants to keep fighting and he's not worried about the consequences.

Some promoter will always give Mosley a chance to get back into the ring. Until he stops selling tickets.

When the public stops responding to him, he'll be forced to say goodbye because he won't get the kind of paydays that make it worth his while.

But for now, Mosley is still in the game.

He's clinging desperately to hope and glory when it's time let go and move on to the next phase of his life.

Miami Heat vs. Indiana Pacers Betting Preview

Doc Moseman — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:10:13 -0400

This Wednesday night, the No. 3 Indiana Pacers will kick off this season’s NBA Eastern Conference Finals on the road against the No. 1 Miami Heat with Game 1 of a best-of-seven series.

The oddsmakers have given the Pacers little chance of toppling the defending champions. BetOnline has opened them as +550 underdogs on the series price with Miami listed as a -710 favorite. They also have the longest odds to win a NBA title among the final four teams at +1600.

The most favorable odds for the length of this series are +180 for five games, with the Heat winning 4-1. The odds for a four-game sweep by Miami are +350, while Indiana winning in seven games is listed at +1500.

When you look at this matchup on paper, you can’t help but get the feeling that these two teams are a bit closer than what the current odds suggest.

They met three times in the regular season; Indiana holds a 2-1 edge both straight up and against the spread by virtue of playing two of the games on their home court. That suggests that the Pacers have a realistic shot at taking this series six games if they successfully defend their home court this time around as well.

So far in these playoffs, they are a perfect 6-0 both SU and ATS at home versus a 2-4 record both ways on the road. Miami is 8-1 SU in its nine playoff games and 6-3 ATS, but this includes a 2-3 record ATS at home.

The Heat have opened up as 7.5-point home favorites for Wednesday night, with the total set at 182.5.

The Pacers win this series if:

If everything that can go right does, Indiana has enough talent to pull off the upset. Under the best of circumstances, Indiana will probably need the full seven games to win, which means a Game 7 in Miami.

If by some crazy twist of fate they can steal a win on the road in the first two games, the Pacers would be in position to close things out in six if they win all three games at home. As good as they have been at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, that would still be a mighty big “if”.

The main edge that Indiana has in this series is on the boards with players such as Paul George and Roy Hibbert. These two have combined to pull down an average of 17.9 rebounds per game in the playoffs. When you add in David West (6.8) and Lance Stephenson (8.1), it’s easy to see how the team as a whole is averaging 47.3 boards per game.

This is an advantage the Pacers need to exploit to the fullest considering they are averaging just 92 points per game.

The Heat win this series if:

Miami should roll into the NBA Finals as expected as long as it continues to play like the team that has lost just three times SU in its last 48 games dating back to February 3. Two of those losses were to Chicago, which it just eliminated in five games in the conference semifinals after a stunning 93-86 loss in Game 1 of that series as a 12.5-point favorite at home.

The Heat are well aware of just how tough Indiana can be to beat when it is at the top of its game, so do not expect any letdowns from Miami this Wednesday night.

This team can beat you by playing defense as well, but it has the added luxury of simply running past the Pacers behind an offense that is averaging 98.6 points per game while shooting 49.1 percent from the field and 34 percent from three-point range.

The main concern remains the health of Dwyane Wade’s knee as he remains a huge part of Miami’s overall game plan on both ends of the court. If he were to go down, then the gap between the two teams shrinks considerably, but not completely.

Pacers vs. Heat Series Betting Trends

The home team in this series is 7-3 both SU and ATS in the last 10 meetings dating back to the 2011-12 season.

They met last season in the conference semifinals, and Indiana opened up a surprising 2-1 series lead before losing three straight games by a combined 52 points. The total in that series stayed “under” in the first three games and went “over” in the final three. The total has now gone over in five of the last six meetings overall.

College Football Sleeper? Look Long and Hard at Arizona State

Adam Kramer — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:06:44 -0400

For the first time in a while, Todd Graham is staying put. He’s not moving his family across the country to a new city for a new job, with another batch of angry fans trailing the plane with pitchforks and torches. Instead, he's remaining at Arizona State, where the future is brighter than it has looked in some time.

In the case of the 2013 season, things could be very bright. Other teams in the Pac-12 will garner headlines and preseason praise, just like they always do. But there’s a quiet optimism surrounding a Sun Devils team that will return many key pieces.

Arizona State’s 2012 started on a promising note, thanks in large part to a gift from the scheduling gods, although as the competition increased—especially during a monthlong stretch during the heart of the schedule—the losses began to mount. Still, Graham’s test drive, which culminated in a blowout victory over Navy in the Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, was a success given the circumstances.

The term “sleeper” has been beaten to death, although it applies in this case. If Arizona State can stay afloat during a brutal early stretch of its schedule, a breakout season could be on the horizon.

Breakout Potential: More of the Same, Which Is Welcomed

For as much as Graham is heralded for his high-powered, up-tempo offense, the Arizona State defense—particularly defending the pass—was fabulous the moment he got off the plane. It helps to inherit this kind of talent, too.

The Sun Devils allowed just 167.9 passing yards per game, which was third nationally. Much of this success came because of consistent pressure, as ASU also tallied 51 sacks and 188 tackles for loss. Both numbers also ranked top-three nationwide.

Six members of the front seven will return, including Will Sutton, ASU’s All-American defensive tackle who surprised everyone by announcing he was returning for his senior season. He will be joined by linebacker Carl Bradford—who totaled double-digit sacks in 2013—giving ASU a potent two-headed attack.

If Arizona State can replace talent on the back end of its defense, this unit could prove to be one of the most disruptive in the country. Regardless, this is not a team opposing quarterbacks will be thrilled about playing.

On the other side of the ball, another year of digestion in Graham’s system should pay off for the offense, which has shown flashes of brilliance in its short lifespan. The team averaged 38 points a game, which was behind only Oregon (surprise, surprise) in the Pac-12.

Taylor Kelly returns as the team’s quarterback, and he should improve after surprising as a sophomore. If he can build upon the 30 touchdowns from a year ago and limit the mistakes, the outlook could be even brighter.

Running back, however, with Marion Grice and D.J. Foster returning, is where there could be a dramatic increase in production.

Grice finishes 2012 by running for more than 300 yards and five touchdowns in the team’s final two games, and Foster logged meaningful carries as a true freshman and should only improve. More importantly for this offense, the two combined for 79 catches for nearly 1,000 yards receiving and 12 touchdowns.

On the Other Hand: Areas of Improvement

There’s no question that Arizona State has the firepower to take that next step. Unlike most teams not named Alabama, however, there are areas of concerns. There are always areas of concern.

For ASU, however, these concerns boil down to a few items. First and foremost, it has to stop the run.

As good as this group was against the pass, it allowed more than 180 yards per game on the ground. Given the aggressive nature of the defense, it’s not necessarily a surprise. Sacrificing some of the incredible pressure generated for a more complete group could translate into more “controlled pressure” and less yards overall. There’s enough talent up front to make this possible.

And if stopping the run isn’t keeping Graham up at night, then perhaps it’s the depth at receiver. Chris Coyle returns as one of the better pass-catching tight ends in the Pac-12, although experience catching passes is lacking.

With Rashad Ross and Jamal Miles graduating, Richard Smith is the player many believe will step up. Help will also come this fall from a few intriguing recruits and junior college transfers.

After hauling in 67 catches for 1,263 yards and 15 touchdowns at Pierce Community College, Jaelen Strong is a name to keep an eye on. This is a dramatic step up in class, although at 6’4”, Strong has the size and speed Graham desperately needs.

Having a talented tight end and running backs to catch passes is a tremendous asset, but ASU needs both speed and consistency—something it lacked last season—on the outside. If it can find it, this offense will be incredibly difficult to slow down.

Season Synopsis: The Timing Is Right, and a Fast Start Will Be Integral

The Pac-12 South is ripe for the taking.

USC is still not its former self, and while UCLA and Arizona provide significant challenges, neither is a sure thing. The conference has undergone significant talent departures (with both players and coaches), which is good news for a team returning 17 starters.

The schedule wouldn’t be classified as favorable, and the potential of this team will be realized—one way or another—during a four-week stretch starting on Sept. 14. In that time ASU will take on Wisconsin (at home), head to Stanford, welcome USC and take on Notre Dame in Cowboys Stadium.

In the middle of November, the Sun Devils will match up with Oregon State and go to UCLA and Arizona in consecutive weeks. Again, there aren’t many “gimmes” on paper, although it might not matter.

Graham has one of the most complete teams in the country, one that seemingly no one's talking about. No, you won’t mistake the defense for Stanford’s, and the offense isn’t up to speed with Oregon’s relentless attack, but both units should improve upon an already impressive foundation.

If that’s the case, the eight wins from a year ago could resemble a good first step. And a run at roses might not be far off.