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Fernandinho: Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Peter Brownell — Wed, 22 May 2013 03:00:00 -0400

Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Fernandinho is among many players being tipped with a possible transfer in the summer window.

Here's a breakdown of his numbers and a brief scouting guide to the Brazilian, along with a few hints as to where he might be playing next summer.

Age: 28

Contract Situation: Fernandinho joined Shakhtar Donetsk in 2005 and is under contract until 2016.

Career Stops: Atletico Paranaense (2002-2005), Shakhtar Donetsk (2005-current).

Current Campaign: Premier Liga—23 games, two goals, seven assists; Champions League—eight games, one goal, one assist; Kubok Ukrainy—two goals, one assist; Superkubok Ukrainy—one game, one assist.

Video Showreel

Scouting Guide

Fernandinho is a midfielder for the Ukrainian club Shakhtar Donetsk.

He can play as a box-to-box midfielder, capable of controlling possession with a smooth touch and high work rate. The Brazilian has a few weapons in his arsenal, including the ability to unleash shots from long distances.

Overall, he is a technical midfielder with plenty to bring to a club both offensively and defensively.

Where Next?

If Fernandinho gets his wishes, he will be wearing Manchester City blue when City's next campaign starts. The Brazilian tweeted, via the Mirror, his desires to join the Champions League club and could well be an excellent addition to Manchester City's midfield.

Then there is the other club in Manchester, Manchester United, who could well have a chance to sign Fernandinho if previous reports, per the Metro, are indeed true.

Either move would be a massive step for Fernandinho.

French Open 2013: Was Andy Murray's Pullout the Right Decision?

Michael Ann McKinlay — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:09:09 -0400

World No. 2 Andy Murray made headlines yesterday, as he withdrew from the second Grand Slam of the season, with a lower-back injury.

He said in a statement, “It’s a really tough decision and I love playing in Paris, but after seeking medical advice I am not fit to compete,” said Murray via ESPN. “Apologies to the organizers and thanks to everyone for the messages of support. Now my complete focus is on getting back on the court as soon as possible.”

What’s more concerning was what Murray said in Rome last week. He cited that this lower-back injury has been a problem since the 2011 season and was an issue last year on the clay.

This withdrawal is also major because it directly affects defending champion Rafael Nadal, as he will be bumped up to the No. 3 seed and will not face Novak Djokovic or Roger Federer until at least the semifinals.

Was this a good move for the remainder of Murray’s 2013 season?

The obvious answer is yes when looking at the 2013 season as a whole. First, Murray can sacrifice his last year’s result (quarterfinals) in Paris and work on defending the more important Wimbledon points and U.S. Open crown.

And after winning the gold medal during the London Olympics at Wimbledon last July, Murray (believe it or not) will be facing even more pressure to break the 77-year drought and finally become the first British male since Fred Perry to win Wimbledon. Plus, now that he’ll come to Wimbledon a Grand Slam champion, he is expected to win.

Secondly, rankings aside, Murray has always played better tennis during the June through August months, excelling on the fast grass and American hard courts. He needs to be healthy during that time because Wimbledon and the U.S. Open are probably his top priority for 2013. With the pullout, it also proved how much Murray values this part of the tennis season.

On the other hand, besides the points he’ll be forfeiting, he is also foregoing his highest Grand Slam seeding since the 2009 U.S. Open as No. 2.

In the last 10 months, Murray has worked hard to assert himself as a Grand Slam contender, not just a Masters Series contender and his ranking shows that effort. With this setback, he could be throwing away his hard work and giving his competitors a slight edge over him in the next month with more match play.

But in the end, Murray isn't considered a favorite to win at Roland Garros, and as such, made the right move to get healthy before the real test in London comes next month.

The French Open draw will be available Friday, with main draw action beginning Sunday.

10 Most Thrilling Finishes in NASCAR History

Jim Folsom — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:09:03 -0400

NASCAR is a sport that builds for the finish. The finish is all that really counts in a NASCAR race. You can lead every lap but the last one, and that makes you a loser.

Like baseball, a lot can happen during the course of the event, but the end is all that really matters. You can get 26 outs and be in good shape, but if you don't get that last one, you lose. Conversely, you can be down all day long, but pull it out at the end.

In NASCAR, you can trail all day long as well, but if you lead at the end it is all that matters. So to narrow it down to the top 10 most exciting finishes of all time will be quite a task. It will surely lead to many arguments as well, but that's alright. It's why there is a comment section below.

So without further ado, let's count them down.

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French Open 2013: About That Roger Federer Backhand Versus Rafael Nadal

Jeremy Eckstein — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:08:07 -0400

Roger Federer’s latest struggle against Rafael Nadal in the Italian Open finals was a microcosm of eight frustrating years of French Open futility against his Spanish nemesis.

There is little, if anything, to examine with the future of this rivalry on red clay. It would be like trying to sell a dunk contest between Michael Jordan and Larry Bird.

Instead, it leads many tennis fans to reflect on the Swiss Maestro’s most glaring weaknesses. One of my readers, Aakash Karkare, recently summed this up by wondering how recent French Open history could have changed: “If Roger had a two hander, would Nadal not have bothered him as much?”

Certainly Nadal’s lefty topspin has created a terrible matchup for Federer’s more spotty single-backhand, but there are numerous layers to this question. Inexorable changes from the ATP tour have directed much of the warfare in tennis that has shaped these two epic champions.

Old-School Artistry

Federer, born in 1981, saw plenty of clay-court champions win with a single backhand. Mats Wilander and Ivan Lendl could push away shots with their weaker side and set opponents up—Wilander preferred to grind for opponent errors and Lendl looked to club his forehand for winners.

There were other one-handers who thrived on clay in the 1990s, including bullish Thomas Muster, who needed a big wind-up for his other wing—and artistic Gustavo Kuerten, who used his lanky height and grace to place the ball deep in the court and stymie counter-attacks.

However, few tennis aficionados, and least of all Federer, would have foreseen the weaknesses to possessing a one-hander because they were nurtured to develop an all-court game. Half of the French Open champions in this draw used a single backhand.

In the 1980s, coach Pete Fischer had young Pete Sampras change his two-hander to the more well-rounded one-hander so that he could win Wimbledon. It’s hard to imagine this would happen again if Sampras were born in the 21^st century.

The champions during much of Federer’s upbringing sought to hit approach shots and force opponents into off-balanced impotent replies. Tennis required more vertical scrambling and guile. Federer honed his game to the 20^th-century ideals of perfected old-school tennis and added 21st-century athleticism and technology. From 2004-2008, it was a nearly unbeatable combination.

New-Wave Power

Nadal, born in 1986, may have been aware of Bjorn Borg’s clay-court dominance, but the Viking’s two-handed topspin dominance was still more of an aberration.

But by the time Nadal was five years old, Jim Courier and Sergi Bruguera had come along with heavy two-handed Western topspin that would dominate four consecutive French Open titles. Fellow Majorcan Carlos Moya also used a two-hander, and champions like Andre Agassi made the baseline style look highly attractive to tennis prospects.

For very young children, holding a racket with two hands is easier. Nadal’s autobiography, Rafa with John Carlin, explains that Nadal was using both sides with two hands. At age nine, his Uncle Toni had him commit to one side or the other for his forehand, and Rafa’s decision to use a lefty forehand certainly changed the future of tennis.

Yet even by 2005, when teenager Nadal was celebrating his first French Open title, it seemed inconceivable that he would conquer red clay with the kind of sweep not seen since the 13-century rise of the Mongol Empire.

Glimpse of the Future

If Federer has been the consummate artist and all-court champion, it’s Nadal who has influenced the way tennis is now played at the highest level. His heavy topspin has produced unprecedented spin speed (consistently measured over 3,000 rpms, according to tennis analyst John Yandell as reported in the New York Times) and high-hopping balls that can rise above an opponent’s head. He has sent every tennis pro back to the laboratory to develop countering techniques and mechanics.

Consequently, the past decade has seen the rapid expansion from a more traditional, two-dimensional game of placement and power added to a third dimension of aerial bounces produced to make it difficult for the opponent to line up shots in his wheelhouse.

For now, it feels as if Federer’s single backhand is all but obsolete in trying to chase titles on clay. If this style is to make a comeback, the players who succeed must hit the ball early and powerfully. Additionally, they must also learn to guide the ball with the same kind of ease seen from the double-handed players.

What young tennis player now would choose to still adopt a one-hander with Federer’s infamous difficulties in fending off Nadal’s devastating missiles? It’s like training to be a master swordsman only to find out that a newly-devised longbow is a more effective long-range weapon.

Federer has an original style, but also an anachronistic one playing under new conditions against a mostly new cast of competitors. He is Claude Monet's "Woman with a Parasol" hanging in a gallery now being decorated with digital facsimiles of supermodels.

Suppose Federer did possess Djokovic’s double-backhand? Would this be the ultimate completion to the perfect player? Would he have a shelf of half a dozen French Open cups to go along with the other 16 Grand Slam titles?

Probably not.

To gain a technical advantage is to lose something else. Federer built his game around quick reflexes and perhaps the most masterful baseline forehand in tennis history. He dominated Wimbledon and the U.S. Open.

Maybe 17 Grand Slam titles never happen if he decided to rely on a Djokovic-like backhand. He might gain the patience to bash from the baseline, but lose the aggressive, fluid attacking game that once ruled the sport. Changing Federer’s backhand would be like giving a makeover to the Mona Lisa. Some things are meant to be appreciated forever the way they are.

Nadal is also more than the sum of his whirlwind topspin. He has raised the bar for seemingly every aspect of clay footwork, retrieval and patience. There is arguably nobody who can top his mental toughness and determination to be a champion. Opponents like Djokovic and Ernests Gulbis can bring out a big backhand, but they will still need the fortitude and talent to seize the biggest points and dominate three of five sets.

French Open 2013 promises to be a spectacular display with Nadal determined as ever to combat his focused competitors. Whether or not someone can beat him with a big double-backhand, that challenger will need a big heart and legendary determination.

Nadal will not hand over his crown.

Click here to match Nadal and Federer with the great French Open champions of the past

Orioles End Losing Streak; Gausman to Start Against Toronto on Thursday

Drew Reynolds — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:01:57 -0400

The Baltimore Orioles ended their six-game losing streak on Monday, beating the Yankees 3-2 in 10 innings on a Nate McLouth solo home run.

The rest of the Orioles offense on Monday night came solely from outfielder Chris Dickerson, who hit two solo home runs. Both blasts were surrendered by Yankees starter Phil Hughes, with one coming in the third inning and the other in the fifth.

While Orioles starter Miguel Gonzalez pitched a solid seven innings in his first start after coming off the disabled list, it was Orioles closer Jim Johnson who picked up the win. After blowing three straight saves, Johnson pitched a perfect top of the 10th and only needed eight pitches to do so.

However, perhaps the biggest news of the night came an hour after the end of the game. It was confirmed by Eduardo A. Encina of The Baltimore Sun that top pitching prospect Kevin Gausman would be called up from Double-A Bowie and start for the Orioles on Thursday in Toronto. Jon Morosi of Fox Sports broke the story.

Gausman, 22, was the fourth overall draft pick out of LSU in last year's draft. So far this season in Bowie, Gausman has pitched well. In eight starts, he has a 3.11 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP, despite only compiling a 2-4 record.

After struggling in a couple of his first three starts, Gausman has hit his stride as of late. In his latest start, which came on Friday, he had another strong outing. Over six innings, Gasuman allowed only one run on four hits and a walk, while striking out 10.

The Orioles' starting rotation has been somewhat of a mess since Jake Arrieta was demoted back in April. With Arrieta's replacements not pitching well and with Wei-Yin Chen currently on the disabled list, it shouldn't come as a total surprise that the Orioles will have Gausman, who is MLB.com's 36th overall prospect, skip Triple-A and get a start in the majors.

While it's likely that Gausman's stay isn't permanent and more of a fill-in start, the 22-year-old can perhaps get a longer look if he provides the Orioles with a strong outing.

Andreas Weimann: Summer Transfer Window Profile and Scouting Report

Peter Brownell — Wed, 22 May 2013 02:00:01 -0400

Aston Villa striker Andreas Weimann is among many players being tipped with a possible transfer in the summer window.

Here's a breakdown of his numbers and a brief scouting guide to the Austrian international, along with a few hints as to where he might be playing next summer.

Age: 21

Contract Situation: Weimann started with Aston Villa in 2010 and is under contract until the end of June 2014.

Career Stops: Aston Villa (2010-current), Watford (loan, 2011-current).

Current Campaign: English Premier League—30 games, seven goals, four assists; League Cup—six games, four goals, one assist; FA Cup—two games, one goal, one assist; World Cup Qualifiers—three games, one assist.

Video Showreel

Scouting Guide

Weimann is a striker who plays as a right-winger for the English Premier League side Aston Villa and the Austrian national team team.

He is a very powerful player and can score from both outside the box and from close range. Weimann is excellent at finding gaps in oppositions' back lines and moves off the ball with purpose.

His strength allows him to hold off defenders, and he is capable of scoring with one touch. He is fearless when attacking the goal and can serve as an outside midfielder if necessary.

Where Next?

A few highly regarded clubs are interested in the signature of Andreas Weimann.

First up are Inter Milan, who, according to Sky Sports, have expressed intrigue in the striking capabilities of the young Austrian.

Then, according to the Mirror, there are slew of clubs keeping tabs on Weimann's contract status with Villa in the hopes that they could step in should the two parties become unable to make a deal.

They include the likes of Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Newcastle.

Obviously, playing for a Champions League finalist would be an appetizing move for one of the bright Premier League stars, but the lore of Inter Milan could draw Weimann to Italy.

Ohio State Football: How the Road Can Be Unkind to the Buckeyes in 2013

Tim Bielik — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:55:30 -0400

Ohio State shouldn't have many problems being perfect at home. It's the road trips that will show how good this team really is next season.

The Buckeyes only leave Ohio five times, but face tough challenges in nearly all of those games.

OSU plays this season at Cal, Northwestern, Purdue, Illinois and Michigan. The Illini should pose little threat after going winless in the Big Ten a year ago, but the other four road games may be very tough.

Cal gave OSU a tough test in the Horseshoe a year ago and should pose another threat in Berkeley with first-year coach Sonny Dykes running the show. The Golden Bears offense should be more explosive, especially if youngsters RB Brendan Bigelow and WR Chris Harper build off solid seasons.

Northwestern finally had a big breakthrough in 2012, winning 10 games as well as winning a bowl game for the first time since 1949.

The news gets worse for the rest of the Big Ten because most of the Wildcats' big guns, namely RB Venric Mark and QB Kain Colter, are back. Northwestern is already a tough team to stop, but now, they're an even tougher team with experience and a boatload of confidence.

The Buckeyes haven't lost to Northwestern since 2004, but this year's team may be the best Northwestern has been in a long time.

Purdue should be an interesting challenge as well because of how much trouble the Boilermakers have caused the Buckeyes in recent years. Were it not for an incredible comeback by Kenny Guiton at QB, the Buckeyes would have lost to Purdue for the third time in four years last season.

New coach Darrell Hazell may bring a different mindset offensively than Danny Hope, but Purdue has enough talent to make OSU sweat again if the Boilermakers play the way they have in recent years.

As for Michigan, the difficulty is obvious with the rivalry factor. The Wolverines defense should be at its best since the Lloyd Carr era ended, and RB Fitzgerald Toussaint should be healthy after missing last year's showdown in Columbus.

OSU fell to the Wolverines in Ann Arbor two years ago, in the last game before Urban Meyer signed on as head coach. Michigan could be the biggest obstacle standing between the Buckeyes and the national championship shot they have coveted for years.

These four games in particular are all winnable without question, but they're certainly going to be battles.

If the Buckeyes run the table once again this year, with the road slate in front of them, it will mean a lot more.

Follow me on Twitter @bielik_tim for the latest college football news and updates.

Mid-Round Rookie Running Backs Set to Make an Impact in 2013

Brandon Holstein — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:48:54 -0400

There's something to be said about taking an opportunity and running with it.

Sometimes it can be as simple as being in the right situation at exactly the right time, while other times it involves more knowledge and overall skill.

Nevertheless—no matter which way you spin it—success nearly always starts and can be defined by this one simple saying from Seneca:

"Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."

Corny, yes, but there is also a lot of truth and meaning to take away from this quote as well.

After all, each year we see player's who shock everybody, turning out much better than anyone could have ever expected.

For instance, running backs like Daryl Richardson, Bryce Brown and Alfred Morris, who, just last year, turned out to make substantial impacts despite facing some rather improbable odds.

It's an anomaly of sorts, but the crazy thing is it happens each and every year, and this year appears to be no different.

So, who exactly are the running backs going into the most ideal situations in this, their rookie seasons?

Ahead, I try to pinpoint these players—discussing exactly what makes them special and how they will make their presences felt sooner rather than later.

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Mike Trout Hits for Cycle: What Can't the Angels Superstar Do on the Field?

Doug Mead — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:45:35 -0400

When Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout stepped to the plate in the bottom of the eighth inning against the Seattle Mariners, he had already singled, doubled and tripled in the game.

With four RBI already and a stolen base to his credit, Trout had already put forth an outstanding effort.

His night, however, was not quite over.

Trout took a Lucas Luetge offering and deposited it over the fence in right-center field for a solo home run. The hometown crowd roared, knowing that Trout had performed something very rare indeed.

Trout hit for the cycle, becoming the first Angel to achieve the feat since Chone Figgins on Sept. 16, 2006.

According to ESPN, at 21 years and 188 days old, Trout is the youngest player in American League history to hit for the cycle.

2013 Mike Trout	21-288	Angels
1997 Alex Rodriguez	21-313	Mariners
1964 Jim Fregosi	22-115	Angels

According to Jeff Fletcher of The Orange County Register, Trout’s achievement was historic in nature as well:

ESPN was quick to point out that in recent times, Trout’s feat, considering his age, is also rare:

ESPN also gives us this interesting fact:

Okay, so enough about his age—what’s next for Trout?

Well, MLB.com reporter Lyle Spencer believes that we certainly haven’t seen the last of cycles from Trout:

I’m inclined to agree.

Trout’s 4-for-5, five-RBI night was certainly a boost for his season stats as well; he's now hitting .293 with nine home runs and leads the team with 34 RBI.

This well could be the kick-start that Trout needed. While it’s difficult to say he was going through an early-season slump, his numbers certainly weren’t what were expected, considering the stratospheric stats he posted in his rookie year.

Spencer is absolutely right, the all-time cycle record could easily be in Trout’s sights. At just 21 years old and blessed with great speed, he absolutely has the tools to challenge the mark. In addition, Trout’s special night could also be the catalyst the Angels needed to pull them out of the doldrums as well.

Make no mistake about it—it’s not going to be Albert Pujols or Josh Hamilton that drives this Angels team. Their production is certainly important for the cause, as are the contributions of the other 22 players on the roster.

But Trout is the Angels’ Red Bull. His energy on the field is what drives this offense.

And on this night, Trout proved that he has only just begun.

Doug Mead is a featured columnist with Bleacher Report. His work has been featured in the Seattle Post-Intelligencer, SF Gate, CBS Sports, the Los Angeles Times and the Houston Chronicle.

Feel free to talk baseball with Doug anytime on Twitter.

Follow @Sports_A_Holic

Tony Parker Notches Career High in Assists as Spurs Outlast Grizzlies in Game 2

Jesse Dorsey — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:44:59 -0400

Tony Parker led the San Antonio Spurs in a squeaker over the Memphis Grizzlies, a 93-89 Game 2 overtime win, thanks in part to his career-high 18 assists.

Tony Parker's 18 assists are tied for 2nd-most in Spurs playoff history, 2 shy of Johnny Moore's 20 in 1983.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 22, 2013

All night long, Parker was finding open shooters and streaking slashers, with shot after shot falling for the first three quarters.

San Antonio's second quarter was an amazing all-around performance, with the team notching an assist on each of its 11 field goals in the quarter. Parker was able to pick up six of those 11 assists, but somehow that wasn't the most impressive stretch from the Frenchman on the evening.

Perhaps most impressive, San Antonio came up with 11 field goals in the third quarter, 10 of which involved Parker. Parker assisted on the first eight, scored the next two and then Manu Ginobili came home with a selfish layup with four seconds left in the quarter.

In all, Parker had a hand in 24 consecutive points.

He had 16 assists after that eight-dime third, but his teammates suddenly stopped making shots in the fourth.

Zero assists came Parker's way in the period as the Spurs scored just nine points.

Parker, not generally known for putting up huge assist numbers (he averages six per game in his career and 7.6 per game this season) actually set his previous career-high earlier last season.

He picked up 17 assists in a two-point win over the New Orleans Hornets late last January, marking just the third time in his career that he surpassed the 15-assist mark.

With a dime dropped to Tim Duncan on the first play of overtime in San Antonio's playoff win, Parker was able to tie that mark, and another dish to Duncan to give the Spurs a four-point lead with a minute remaining put him in uncharted territory.

Cleveland Cavaliers Win NBA Lottery, What Should They Do Now?

Tommy McConnell — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:39:24 -0400

Well, the Cleveland Cavaliers have a choice to make. A few of them, actually.

The Cavs jumped up two spots in Tuesday night's NBA draft lottery to snag the No. 1 pick. The surprising good luck—thanks, Nick Gilbert!—has Cleveland in a fortuitous position: they have their choice of young players to add to their already young core, or they could look to move the pick for an established All-Star type player.

Let's say Cleveland keeps its pick, which is probably the likeliest scenario.
Nerlens Noel is the obvious pick, and while Chris Grant will do his due diligence, there's a couple of factors pointing strongly toward the freshman from Kentucky, chief among them Mike Brown.

Brown is, above everything, a defensive coach. He is fully aware of just how awful Cleveland was on that end of the court a year ago, and I would imagine his first priority would be improving one of the league's most porous defenses.

Their guards struggled to make consistent rotations and keep the ball in front of them, but the major problem was protecting the paint. Opposing teams shot 62.5 percent from within five feet against Cleveland, the third-worst mark in the league. Cleveland doesn't have a single player on its roster that can challenge a shot at the rim.

Enter Nerlens, a shot-blocking maven. If he's going to contribute anything at all during his rookie season, it will be on defense, primarily blocking and altering shots. Brown has to be giddy that he can plug in a rookie who will help to solve his defense's most glaring issue almost immediately.

Beyond that, it's not unreasonable that he can live on putbacks and pick-and-roll dunks, and if he puts on a few more pounds, he could possibly be a healthier and more offensive Tyson Chandler. There's more to like right off the bat than you think.

There's an argument to be made for drafting Otto Porter, who's the ideal 3 for Cleveland's roster, but effective swingmen are much more plentiful in the draft (maybe even with the 19th pick) than a 6'11" shot-blocking pogo stick.

But Grant has made it clear that drafting Noel, or even keeping the pick, is not a lock. Cleveland will explore all its options, and that includes trading the No. 1 overall pick.

If they were to pull the trigger on a deal of that caliber, what would be a fair, or more importantly, a smart return? Cleveland was recently linked to LaMarcus Aldrige, so perhaps they'd revisit that deal. DeMarcus Cousins is available, but he's pretty much confirmed any and all headcase suspicions. Al Horford could also be acquired if Atlanta whiffs on the D12/CP3 dream signing.

Those are three talented bigs, but they're also expensive. Is it worth tying up all future cap flexibility for one of them? I don't think so. There's only one name that really intrigues me: Kevin Love.

If Minnesota were to make him available, Cleveland has to pull the trigger. There's no question marks with Love. He's a legit All-Star, a relentless rebounder who has three-point range and proven chemistry with Uncle Drew. Could you imagine pairing him with Anderson Varejao? How many rebounds would they get? All the rebounds, that's how many.

As things stand right now, there's really only two options: Noel or Love.

Whatever he does, this quote will help me sleep easier at night, courtesy of Cleveland.com:

"We certainly think about that. And it is important," Grant said of veteran help. "But at the same time, when you have the ability to add very good young talent to your roster that can grow and flourish, and you add that to the other guys you have, it gives you an opportunity to build something that's sustainable long-term."

Biggest Takeaways from Tuesday's NHL Playoff Action

Carol Schram — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:38:17 -0400

Tuesday night's NHL playoff action featured two series headed in very different directions.

Though the New York Rangers had not lost a playoff game this year when leading after two periods, the Boston Bruins came from behind with a 2-1 win to take a 3-0 stranglehold in their best-of-seven series.

Meanwhile, the feisty San Jose Sharks stormed hard out of the gate to dominate the Los Angeles Kings early, then hang on for a 2-1 win to tie their series at two games each.

Here's a look at some of the pivotal moments and key takeaways from Tuesday's games.

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NBA Players Who Would Thrive in Another Professional Sport

Ben Leibowitz — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:32:09 -0400

NBA players are among the most athletic and physically skilled human beings on the planet. As a result of their elite talents, it would not be unusual to see those players thrive in other professional sports.

The marquee examples of dual sport athletes include Deion Sanders and Bo Jackson. Both were prominent athletes in the NFL and Major League Baseball throughout their careers.

Even lesser known cases like Chicago Cubs pitcher Jeff Samardzija (who played wide receiver at Notre Dame) and New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (who was drafted by the Montreal Expos before attending the University of Michigan) are interesting examples of the talent today’s athletes possess.

So which NBA players could not only play a different sport professionally but also succeed in doing so?

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Upset Meter for Every 2nd-Round Stanley Cup Playoff Series

Tom Urtz Jr. — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:18:10 -0400

The second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup playoffs has been exciting up to this point, and each series has the potential for an upset. The New York Rangers are the most unlikely to pull off an upset, as they are in an 0-3 hole trailing the Boston Bruins.

The Chicago Blackhawks could go down 3-1 if they lose Game 4 on Thursday night, and that would put them in a ton of trouble. The other series going on in the NHL playoffs also feature great matchups, and here is where the upset meter is for every second-round Stanley Cup playoff series.

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49ers Running Back Breakdown: Full Evaluation and Depth Chart Analysis

Joseph Akeley — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:15:38 -0400

The San Francisco 49ers have one of the most productive running games in the NFL.

Led by a mauling offensive line and talented group of running backs, the Niners ranked fourth in rushing yards per game in 2012.

Colin Kaepernick's dual-threat ability also played in a major role in the rushing assault. The 49ers featured more read-option plays with Kaepernick behind center, and it resulted in a more explosive ground attack.

Just ask the Green Bay Packers.

Let's take a look at the top five running backs in Red and Gold. What will their roles be in 2013?

Frank Gore: The Starter

Gore is quietly making a case for a Hall of Fame induction. He ranks 34th in all-time rushing yards and third among active players.

However, he just turned 30. Is he due to slow down?

He showed no signs of slowing down in 2012.

Gore rushed for 1,214 yards on a 4.7 yards-per-carry average—his best mark since 2009. He was even better in the playoffs, accumulating 319 rushing yards on a 5.1 per-carry average in three games.

Gore doesn't have the speed of a Chris Johnson or the power of an Adrian Peterson, but his combination of vision, patience and elusiveness makes him one of the most efficient runners in the NFL.

He's also a quality receiver out of the backfield, and he does everything expected of a running back when picking up oncoming blitzers.

In the 2012 regular season, Gore placed ninth in Pro Football Focus' overall ranking for qualified running backs (subscription required). Until he clearly loses a step, he should be San Francisco's starter.

LaMichael James: Change of Pace

James appeared in San Francisco's last seven games (playoffs included) in 2012, and he immediately showed why the Niners used a second-round pick on him.

He has the quickness to attack the edges of the defense, which can be absolutely deadly with an athletic quarterback running the read-option.

At the 46-second mark of the video to the right, you get a glimpse of James' explosiveness. Before some Falcons defenders know he has the ball, he's around the right side of the line with a straight line to the end zone.

However, questions remain about James' ball security and durability.

The diminutive back had only 38 carries last year, and it's yet to be determined whether he can stay healthy for a full NFL season. He also had several minor injuries in his career at the University of Oregon, but he played through them to become the school's all-time leading rusher.

As for ball security, he had two fumbles last year, one of which was recovered by the Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII.

Still, with Kendall Hunter's health in question, James may be relied upon heavily as San Francisco's No. 2 running back in 2013.

Kendall Hunter: Wild Card

According to Eric Branch of the San Francisco Chronicle, Hunter was running sprints in mid-April, but he could not make cuts yet. Still, Hunter seems to be on the right track to return for training camp from the torn Achilles he sustained in November.

And what a lift it would be if he was at full strength for the 2013 season.

Hunter actually had a better rushing score on Pro Football Focus' rankings than Gore did in 2011 (subscription required). And last year, Hunter averaged 5.2 yards per carry.

He deserves to be mentioned as a possible starting replacement for Gore down the road.

The issues with Hunter are his porous run-blocking and health concerns. In blitz pickup, he often chops at bigger defensive players, which leaves San Francisco's quarterback vulnerable at times.

I've already alluded to the health concerns. If the Niners don't feel he's ready for the 2013 season, they could put him on the temporary IR until midseason to give Jewel Hampton a roster spot or add more depth to another position.

Anthony Dixon: Short-Yardage Back

Dixon should make the roster over Hampton and any other unexpected challengers due to his special teams contributions.

The 2009 sixth-round pick won't see the field much on offense, but he still might be the best option for the Niners on a 3rd-and-1 play due to his powerful running style.

San Francisco called on him against the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship Game, and he delivered.

Dixon should settle in as the third- or fourth-string running back for the 2013 season.

Marcus Lattimore: The Future

Will Lattimore suit up in 2013?

Your guess is as good as any at this point.

According to Matt Barrows of The Sacramento Bee, head coach Jim Harbaugh hinted at giving Lattimore a year to recover from the torn ACL, MCL and PCL he sustained in October.

That being said, the 49ers could put him on the temporary IR (only one player per team is allowed the spot) and activate him around midseason in case several running backs get injured.

Or, he could be like Adrian Peterson and come back in 2013 better than ever...but I wouldn't bet on it.

With all the running back talent on the San Francisco roster, I'm guessing Lattimore does sit out the entire season. He has the talent to be San Francisco's starter down the road.

10 NFL Players Who Will See the Most Dramatic Stat Increases from 2012 to 2013

Alessandro Miglio — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:11:13 -0400

Every season, we see a smattering of NFL players dramatically increase their production.

Here are 10 players set to see big increases in their statistical output next season. A few might surprise you, given they were pretty good last year. Others are simply logical progressions given new situations.

Statistics courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.com.

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San Antonio Spurs Out-Ugly Memphis Grizzlies in Game 2 of Western Finals

Josh Martin — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:10:56 -0400

You'd hardly know the San Antonio Spurs were a high-flying finesse team after the way they closed out Game 2 of the 2013 Western Conference Finals against the Memphis Grizzlies Tuesday night.

The Spurs were up by as many as 18 points in the third quarter and 14 in the fourth. Tony Parker appeared poised to challenge the NBA playoff record for assists in a game, with 16 dimes through the first three frames. All five of San Antonio's starters had already scored in double figures while helping to hold the Grizzlies well under 40 percent from the field.

Then, the wheels came off the wagon, and the Spurs found themselves on the brink of blowing a crucial contest at home. Over the last 8:10 of regulation, San Antonio missed all but one of its 12 attempts from the floor (including an ugly fadeaway by Tim Duncan at the end of the game), turned the ball over four times, and racked up six fouls—four of which came on the same possession.

Not that the Grizzlies played any prettier. Zach Randolph had himself another forgettable game. He had just two points at the half and (once again) struggled to get his shot off from among San Antonio's trees. Tony Allen airballed his fair share of shots, as did Jerryd Bayless, who clanked a three off the backboard in the closing seconds of overtime.

In fact, only two Memphis players (Quincy Pondexter and Keyon Dooling) managed to hit at least half of their shots.

And those two combined for all of nine shots.

But ugly is the way Memphis has long preferred to play. The Grizzlies sport the lowest effective field-goal percentage of any team that's participated in these playoffs. During the regular season, they played at the second-slowest pace, tallied the third-worst effective field-goal percentage and ranked among the bottom 10 in assists per game. When things went sour in San Antonio, Memphis reverted to its signature, muck-making ways and managed to force overtime as a result.

The thing is, San Antonio has a long, storied history of not only playing unattractive basketball but also riding such a style all the way to the top. With Tim Duncan as the anchor, the Spurs fashioned their four-title dynasty around a stifling, fundamentally sound defense and a deliberate offense that grounded out buckets.

The other thing is, these Spurs are still entirely capable of succeeding under such circumstances if need be. When fastbreak-fueling turnovers are hard to come by and the shots aren't falling and the pick-and-roll isn't generating the looks that it normally does, San Antonio can still count on its ability to stop the opposition.

They can also count on Timmy to come through in the clutch, as he did on Tuesday night. Duncan scored six of San Antonio's eight points in overtime, including a crucial bucket off an offensive board that opened up after Marc Gasol switched onto Tony Parker in the pick-and-roll.

Basketball fans have been treated to such vintage Duncan all season, and Game 2 was no different. He finished the evening with about as stuffed a stat line as you'll ever see from a 37-year-old: 17 points, nine rebounds, three assists, four blocks and two steals in 31 minutes.

For all of the work that the Spurs have done to reorganize themselves around Parker's particular talents, the Big Fundamental remains the rock upon which San Antonio leans in times like these. He anchors their defense and protects the rim, even though he can no longer move and leap as well as he once did. He bails them out with big buckets, like a rusty but reliable safety valve.

Duncan can play a beautiful brand of basketball (as the game was meant to be played) but he is just as comfortable down in the proverbial dirt. He's won nearly a handful of championships that way without apology, even as so much of the basketball-watching public once turned on San Antonio for being slow, boring and ugly.

The Spurs are no longer that squad. They play fast, pass the ball and score at an elite rate. Tony Parker is their best player and leader, with young guns like Kawhi Leonard, Danny Green and Tiago Splitter taking their rightful place on Gregg Popovich's decorated mantle of raw prospects-turned-pivotal pieces.

But lurking deep within San Antonio's soul are the vestiges of a team that can (and sometimes does) win sans aesthetics. That will always be the case, so long as Timmy and Tony and Manu Ginobili are still lacing 'em up as a trio.

It's that very versatility that has propelled the Spurs to this point, allowing them to squash the Los Angeles Lakers, outlast the upstart Golden State Warriors, and now beat the Memphis Grizzlies at their own game.

To be sure, the Spurs aren't without their weaknesses. They don't have a ton of size and have been known to play fast and loose with the ball at times. They'll be hard-pressed to pummel the Grizzlies in Memphis the way they did in San Antonio if such sloppy play becomes the order of the day.

Then again, the Spurs don't seem to mind playing ugly basketball. If that's what it takes to win this series and advance to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2007, then you can be sure they'll do it.

After all, they've done it before.

Follow @Josh_E_Martin

Mike Trout Hits for the Cycle vs. Seattle Mariners

Ryan Rudnansky — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:03:49 -0400

Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout hit for the cycle against the Seattle Mariners Tuesday night.

CBSSports.com tweeted:

Coming into the contest, Trout had been hitting .293 with nine home runs, 34 RBI, 31 runs and nine stolen bases. He's hitting .308 with six home runs, 13 RBI, 14 runs and four stolen bases in May.

The 21-year-old has been phenomenal for the Angels since getting regular playing time last season. In 2012, he batted .326 with 30 home runs, 83 RBI, 129 runs and 49 stolen bases as the AL Rookie of the Year.

Trout's impact on the baseball field was on full display Tuesday. After striking out looking in the first inning, he roared back. First, it was an infield single in the third inning. Then, it was a triple in the fourth. Then, it was a double in the sixth inning.

The second-year pro saved the best for last versus Seattle, homering to center field in the bottom of the eighth to help the Angels on its way to the 12-0 victory over their division foes.

Pedro Moura of the Orange County Register tweeted:

And so continues the story of Mike Trout, a true five-tool player whose legend only continues to grow. He's certainly done what he can to help the ailing Angels this season.

Perhaps Trout's wonderful achievement will help rejuvenate the team. Los Angeles is now just 18-27 after the victory—far below expectations, to say the least.

One thing's for sure: If Mike Trout keeps this up, it's going to be difficult for the Angels to lose ballgames. Tack on another accolade for the young star.

San Antonio's 'We Did It' Guy Adds to List of Overly Excited Spurs Fans

Jesse Dorsey — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:01:43 -0400

A 17-point lead dissolved and the Memphis Grizzlies forced overtime, but the San Antonio Spurs took care of business at home and notched a Game 2 win. One Spurs fan might have been the most excited person on the face of the planet.

Just as time runs out and the Spurs are passing hugs around, a man starts shouting, "We did it! WE DID IT!" in close proximity to the camera crew.

And we're thankful that he did.

We did it!
— Bethlehem Shoals (@freedarko) May 22, 2013

There have been a ton of fans in the running to be this year's honorary hilarious fan audio bite of the year, but I think this guy finally takes the cake.

If you recall, last year we had, "Good job, good effort" kid, who has finally been supplanted by the "WE DID IT!" guy.

He easily knocked off "Screaming Spurs Lady," who was doing nothing more than shrieking for what seemed like an eternity during Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals.

I bet the "WE DID IT" guy is married to the screaming Spurs lady.
— Rey-Rey (@TheNoLookPass) May 22, 2013

There's still time for somebody else to take the throne with nearly two full rounds of basketball still to go, but he's going to be a tough one to knock off.

Kansas City Chiefs: Takeaways from May 21 OTAs

Brett Gering — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:58:33 -0400

Head coach Andy Reid and the Kansas City Chiefs returned to the practice field on May 21, which marked the team's fourth day of organized team activities (OTAs).

Throughout the first wave of sessions (May 14–16), the defense consistently pestered its offensive peers—the tides have begun to turn.

But that's not to say that the defense was overshadowed; more like the balance of power has teeter-tottered to a stalemate.

Offense Making Up Ground

Andy Reid arrived at KCI with packed bags, lofty ambitions and a highly touted West Coast offense. He soon grabbed headlines by adding former Minnesota Vikings head coach Brad Childress to his staff—designating him as a "spread game analyst." Recently, Reid enlisted the services of Chris Ault: the mastermind behind the pistol scheme.

This isn't your grandfather's offense (nor Brian Daboll's, for that matter). A handful of practices barely allow the players to scratch the surface.

But backup quarterback Chase Daniel affirmed that the inexperienced playmakers are rounding the learning curve, claiming in an article in the Kansas City Star, "There were no, ‘What?’ calls in the huddle to us or 'What does this mean?’ You can tell our guys are studying."

Donald Stephenson Pulls Guard Duty

According to the Kansas City Star's Adam Teicher, offensive tackle Donald Stephenson split time at both guard positions.

The transition sells two notions: Donald Stephenson has proven to be too valuable an asset not to utilize, and Jeff Allen has ceased to effectively make his case.

The move sprouts a host of additional questions concerning Allen's development. Last season's second-round selection was consistently bullied by bull-rushers in 2012.

Defensive Aggression

The Chiefs forced a measly total of 13 turnovers in 2012—tied for last in the NFL. That won't be the case under new defensive coordinator Bob Sutton.

In 2013, the Arrowhead faithful can expect to see a gambling man's defense.

Pro Bowl outside linebacker Justin Houston noted the difference to KCChiefs.com's Reid Ferrin, saying, "There are a few changes. Some of the calls, and the way our big guys play up front. They’re attacking more, instead of reading."

Sutton's piranha-like mentality bodes well for two linemen in particular: Dontari Poe and Tyson Jackson.

At the 2012 combine, Poe strutted off the field as a mobile mountain. However, he faced adversity while reading and reacting throughout his rookie campaign.

Jackson recorded three sacks—more than he tallied in his previous three seasons—within a four-game stretch last season. And the aforementioned takedowns stemmed from his deployment in sub packages (i.e. pass-rushing scenarios).

Playmakers can't showcase their talents if they're not put in a position to do so—Bob Sutton appears to agree.

Brett's Twitter: Follow @BrettGering

Brett's Email: gering.brett@gmail.com

Seattle Seahawks Running Back Breakdown: Evaluation and Depth Chart Analysis

Todd Pheifer — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:52:24 -0400

When it comes to the running back position, the Seattle Seahawks have one of the best groups in the NFL. Granted, running back can be a position that has some extreme ups and downs. If a star running back goes down, it can drastically change the effectiveness of the offense.

The emergence of Russell Wilson as an effective quarterback has certainly given the Seahawks more options on offense, but this is still a running team. You could even argue that Wilson’s running ability gives them another ground option out of the backfield.

Assuming that players stay healthy, Seattle should remain one of the most dangerous running teams in the NFL. The Seahawks averaged 161.2 yards in 2012, which was good for third in the league.

Here is a breakdown of the Seattle running backs and how the depth chart should unfold.

Marshawn Lynch

2012 season: 315 carries, 1,590 yards, 11 TDs (one TD receiving)

Get ready for another season of Beast Mode. Marshawn Lynch remains one of the top backs in the NFL, and the Seahawks are likely to depend on their tough running back yet again in 2013. After all, he still has one of the best runs in NFL history, and it is hard to get tired of seeing it.

Adding Christine Michael may help share the load and change the way that the Seahawks use their running backs. However, look for Lynch to be the starter and featured back for the foreseeable future.

The drafting of Michael does not mean that the Lynch era is coming to an end. If anything, Marshawn Lynch may be in his prime for the next season or two. However, NFL running backs can have short careers, and declines can happen very quickly.

For now, fans in the end zone should keep their Skittles at the ready.

Position: Starter

Robert Turbin

2012 season: 80 carries, 354 yards, zero TDs

Robert Turbin was a solid back in 2012, and he may play a similar role in the 2013 season. What is unclear is what the long-term plan is for the second-year running back.

Is Turbin destined to be a backup, or could he see an expanded role at some point?

Adding Christine Michael will almost certainly cost Turbin some touches, though Michael will still have to prove that he can be an effective NFL running back. Turbin did survive his rookie campaign, so he may be all the more effective in 2013 with a year under his belt.

Position: First Backup

Christine Michael

2012 season (college): 88 carries, 417 yards, 12 TDs

It is fair to suggest that the selection of Michael was a surprising pick in the second round since the fans and experts probably expected the Seahawks to go in a different direction in the NFL draft. However, Pete Carroll and John Schneider have been anything but predictable in the last couple of years.

Michael is a talented player, so the potential is definitely there. However, he did have some issues in college. In addition, how do you use a rookie with notable ability when Marshawn Lynch is your established starter?

It will be interesting to see how Michael performs in training camp and the preseason. This may give a clue as to his role in the regular season. Depth is great in certain positions, but you also want particular players to get into a flow.

Position: Second Backup

Michael Robinson

2012 season: 12 carries, 49 yards, zero TDs (two TDs receiving)

Obviously the stat line for a fullback is never going to be particularly impressive from a numerical standpoint. However, football fans know that the fullback is not necessarily supposed to rack up the numbers.

If anything, the numbers of Marshawn Lynch say something about the effectiveness of the fullback. In that regard, Michael Robinson continues to be an excellent blocker and a guy who can break off the occasional run to keep the defense honest.

It seems reasonable to assume that Robinson will remain the guy who sets the table for Marshawn Lynch in 2013. The job isn't glamorous, but it is vitally important.

Position: Starter

Spencer Ware

2012 season (college): 94 carries, 367 yards, one TD

The Seahawks thought enough of Spencer Ware to select him in the sixth round of the NFL draft. Whether he can make the team is an entirely different issue.

Overall, the LSU running back has the ability to contribute at fullback, but there just may not be a roster spot for him. The same could be said for Derrick Coleman, who is also currently on the roster.

Both Ware and Coleman will probably have to put on some excellent performances if they are going to make the deep team.

Position: Wild Card

Follow @tpheifer

Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs: Game 2 Postgame Grades and Analysis

Dan Favale — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:49:05 -0400

Now, on to Memphis. The San Antonio Spurs jumped out to a 2-0 series lead after defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 93-89 in overtime.

Tony Parker went bonkers on the offensive end while Tim Duncan saved his best for last. Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol struggled to find the bottom of the net while Tony Allen had to resort to flopping to make an impact.

This one was that crazy.

Gregg Popovich's Spurs led by as many as 18 points and held a 12-point lead headed into the fourth quarter, but they just weren't able to close it out in regulation.

Memphis outscored San Antonio 21-9 in the fourth, forcing overtime. The Grizzlies' luck stopped there, though, as they managed to tally just four points in the extra period.

San Antonio now heads to Memphis two victories away from advancing to the NBA Finals, which isn't likely to sit well with the Grizzlies.

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Kings vs. Sharks Game 4: Score, Twitter Reaction and Analysis

Ryan Rudnansky — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:44:50 -0400

After a rough visit to Los Angeles, the San Jose Sharks have roared back against the Kings in the Western Conference semifinals, posting a 2-1 victory on Tuesday to even the series.

The Sharks took control six minutes into the game when Brent Burns scored on a 15-foot slap shot off assists from Joe Thornton and T.J. Galiardi.

The Sharks tweeted:

At the 13:19 mark, the Kings' Colin Fraser was whistled for hooking Patrick Marleau. But the Sharks were only able to get off one shot on goal during the ensuing power play, as numerous attempts were blocked by Los Angeles.

At the 15:26 mark, San Jose received another power play after Drew Doughty got two minutes for slashing Marc-Edouard Vlasic. But despite three shots on goal for the Sharks (including an eight-footer by Galiardi), the Kings emerged unscathed.

The Kings rarely threatened in the first 20 minutes, only getting off three shots on goal and finding themselves in a 1-0 deficit. On the flip side, the Sharks got off 15 shots on goal to really test Los Angeles goaltender Jonathan Quick's reflexes. The Sharks also won 17-of-22 faceoffs in the period.

Dan Moriarty of the Los Angeles Kings broadcast team tweeted after the first period:

That turned out to be quite clairvoyant. At the 3:14 mark in the second period, Fraser was once again whistled. This time, he got two minutes for roughing Andrew Desjardins.

The Sharks made sure to capitalize on their third power play of the game, as Dan Boyle's 54-foot slap shot at the 3:55 mark was deflected into the net by Logan Couture. Boyle and Joe Pavelski got the assists.

Mark Purdy of the San Jose Mercury News tweeted:

Los Angeles was awarded its first power play of the game at the 8:33 mark when Galiardi was whistled for interference. But despite receiving an opening, the Kings only managed one shot on the man advantage.

At the 16:58 mark, the Sharks' Scott Hannan was whistled for interference, setting up another man advantage for the Kings. But again, the Kings weren't able to capitalize, getting off just two shots (zero on goal).

The second period ended with San Jose leading, 2-0. David Pollak of the San Jose Mercury News tweeted:

Both teams battled back and forth before the Kings' Matt Greene was given two minutes for high-sticking Couture at the 5:18 mark. On the power play, the Sharks were unable to score, only getting off one shot that was blocked.

Burns displayed poor judgment at the 8:14 mark, boarding Anze Kopitar with the Sharks trying to close out the game.

It proved to be costly, as Los Angeles finally executed on the man advantage. Mike Richards swung home a five-foot wrist shot on assists from Jeff Carter and Kopitar, and at the 9:46 mark in the third, the Kings were trailing 2-1. The Sharks tweeted:

The LA Kings Ice Crew was noticeably happy:

But, despite a few scoring opportunities for the Kings down the stretch, they ultimately weren't able to tie up the game.

Sharks goaltender Antti Niemi saved all but one of Los Angeles' 23 shots on goal. Quick was also outstanding (21-of-23), but was saddled with the loss.

The Sharks have squared up the series at two games apiece. Game 5 will be played on Thursday at Staples Center.

Josh Barnett Rejoins UFC, Signs Multi-Fight Deal

Joe Chacon — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:33:52 -0400

The age-old philosophy that "time heals all" appears to be flowing freely within the UFC. Dana White and Josh Barnett have come together once again.

According to USA Today, Barnett has signed a new multi-fight deal with the UFC and will be fighting in the Octagon later this year. An official announcement from the promotion is expected within the next couple of days.

Barnett is best known for his powerful wrestling, charismatic persona and unfortunately, a career marred by failed drug tests. "The Warmaster" has a career record of 32-6 (4-1 in the UFC), but has not fought inside the Octagon since 2002 when he beat Randy Couture for the UFC Heavyweight Championship. Barnett was later stripped of the title for testing positive for multiple banned substances.

The 35-year-old didn't let the mishap from the UFC detour his fighting aspirations. Barnett went on to a successful Pancrase and Pride career before showcasing his skills more recently in Strikeforce.

While fans have been clamoring for Barnett to get back with the UFC for quite some time, things didn't look so good based on what White had to say in this 2010 interview with Ariel Helwani of MMA Fighting (emphasis mine):

All of us are going to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. It's how you deal with those mistakes. You take a guy like Josh Barnett. This guy's tested positive three times and denies every time that he's taken steroids, okay? He comes out with an interview last week basically saying, 'I don't care about anybody else; the only person I care about is myself. I got some fans out there and thanks for following me or whatever, but I'm not fighting for you. I'm fighting for me and I'm doing everything for me.' This is a guy who single-handedly put a company out of business -- single-handedly put a company out of business for doing what he was doing and has zero remorse for it. Couldn't care less. [He's like,] 'I don't care that you bought tickets to that fight and were planning on going. I don't care that Fedor flew all the way in from Russia to fight me and trained and spent his own money to do this. I don't care that this company, Affliction, believed in me and was allowing me to make a living and I put them out of business. All I care about is me. Those are the guys that I have zero tolerance for. And that's why he's not in the UFC and never will be.

Gradually over the last few years since White made these comments, it became evident that there was at least a window of opportunity for Barnett to come back. Now that a multi-fight deal has been made with the former "Baby-Faced Assassin," UFC fans will see exactly how he stacks up with the best heavyweights the world has to offer.

NBA Coaching Carousel: Why the Los Angeles Clippers Should Hire Avery Johnson

Charles Bennett — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:25:05 -0400

It’s been recently revealed by ESPN that the Los Angeles Clippers are going to let Vinny Del Negro walk as coach.

This comes after he won the Clip Show’s first division title and followed that up with a first-round playoff exit amidst much criticism.

I see the choice of the next Clippers coach as being governed by two factors. One is that the Clippers need a coach who would make Chris Paul happy enough to not bolt to the Dallas Mavericks or some other team in the offseason.

Another is that Clippers owner Donald T. Sterling doesn’t want to shell out the big bucks for a marquee coach like Phil Jackson.

To placate Chris Paul, I suggest hiring a coach who is a former point guard and runs a point guard-centric offense. Maybe a coach who has won rings as a player, then taken a team to the NBA Finals.

Such a coach exists in Avery Johnson.

The 5'11" Avery Johnson spent 16 seasons in the NBA, mostly with the San Antonio Spurs, where he won a title in 1999. Less than a year after retiring as a player, the “Little General” was a head coach.

Johnson has a career 58-percent winning percentage, with a Coach of the Year Award and three 50-win seasons. He has won four playoff series, with three of those coming in the 2006 campaign.

Johnson's best record came in 2007, when the Mavericks posted 67 wins against 15 losses in Dirk Nowitzki's MVP year.

Avery Johnson runs a very point guard-centric offense that looks for, amongst other things, fast-break and lob opportunities. If there is any team in the NBA that is built for such opportunities, it is the LA Clippers.

Another thing to like about Johnson is that he likes rotating in bench players. He did this with a good bench in Dallas and a weak bench in New Jersey. He could do it again with good Clippers players.

Sure, Avery Johnson is one of the better commodities on the market and won’t come cheap, but he certainly won’t command Phil Jackson money, and perhaps not even Van Gundy money. Johnson’s exit from the Nets has seriously deteriorated his ability to command cash.

Some would point out that Avery Johnson didn't mesh with one of the league's other top-tier point guards, Deron Williams. Then again, Deron Williams didn't mesh with John Stockton's coach, either.

Another thing Johnson is faulted for is being a poor developer of talent. Fortunately, the Clippers have a solid veteran core that has little need for a developer.

Bottom line: There are a number of candidates the Clippers could look at for their head coaching job. But the best candidate is Avery Johnson.

Charles Woodson's Return to the Oakland Raiders Tops off Productive Offseason

D.J. O'Connor — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:22:00 -0400

The Oakland Raiders, led by GM Reggie McKenzie, have had a very busy offseason in which many players were released and replaced by under-the-radar free-agent signings.

In Oakland, players like Rolando McClain have been replaced by Nick Roach while Ron Bartell and Shawntae Spencer have been replaced by D.J. Hayden and Tracy Porter.

The Raiders' defensive makeover has been so drastic that only three starters are returning on defense. Now, we can technically say they will have four returning starters.

According to Josh Dubow of the Associated Press, Charles Woodson will return to the Oakland Raiders on a one-year contract. Woodson was a Raider from 1998-2005 after being selected by Oakland with the fourth overall draft pick in 1998.

Woodson returns to a team that is very much different than the franchise that drafted him in 1998. He last played for the Raiders when Al Davis ran the organization and the Raiders had the same defensive philosophy they had used since the 1960s. That philosophy was man-to-man coverage for the defensive backs and the basic four-man pass rush.

Woodson will have a much more complex playbook this time around, as the Raiders now utilize much more zone coverage and blitzes than when Woodson last wore silver and black in 2005.

Woodson will now be the starting free safety in Oakland. Woodson can serve as a coach on the field for the younger defensive backs, such as Tyvon Branch and D.J. Hayden.

At the very least, a Woodson-Raiders reunion is nostalgic for the fans who remember when Woodson was a Raider in the early 2000s, when the team last appeared in a Super Bowl.

10 College Football Players Who Will Make Excellent Coaches Someday

Jonathan McDanal — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:20:53 -0400

College football players have many options for a bright future. Playing in the NFL, pursuing a career in the field of their chosen degree or coaching. Coaching is almost always an option, unless they spend more than a decade outside the realm of football.

What does it take to be an excellent coach? You have to be able to win national championships, raise up players with incredible integrity and moral character or both. No coach is going to be retained if he can't find success either on or off the field.

It takes intelligence, specific knowledge of football and the ability to lead in order to be an excellent coach.

Here are 10 players on 2013 rosters who will someday make great coaches.

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Memphis Grizzlies vs. San Antonio Spurs: Game 2 Score, Highlights and Analysis

Alec Nathan — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:16:33 -0400

In an overtime thriller, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Memphis Grizzlies, 93-89, to take Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals and assume a 2-0 series lead.

The Spurs held a 12-point lead entering the fourth quarter, but the Grizzlies mounted a 15-2 run down the stretch to tie the game with 15 seconds remaining on a floater by Mike Conley. After outscoring the Spurs, 33-30, in the third quarter, the Grizzlies torched the Spurs in the fourth by a margin of 21-9.

In overtime, it was the Tim Duncan show. Duncan scored six of the Spurs' eight points in the extra period and proved to be the difference.

Tony Parker finished with 15 points and a playoff career-high 18 assists, and did an excellent job of pushing the pace and penetrating the lane throughout. All five Spurs starters finished in double figures, including Tiago Splitter, who was an efficient 6-of-8 from the field and contributed 14 points.

Duncan, who scored just six points in Game 1, responded with a clutch 17-point, nine-rebound, four-block effort in the win.

And, once again, San Antonio's perimeter trio held things down from beyond the arc. Kawhi Leonard (12 points), Matt Bonner (five points) and Danny Green (11 points) accounted for six of the team's nine three-pointers, pacing a balanced attack.

Manu Ginobili led Gregg Popovich's reserves with seven points and four assists.

Conley, who was in out and of the game early due to foul trouble, responded with a big second half. In 35 minutes, Conley tied a team-high with 18 points on 6-of-14 shooting.

Coming off of a 1-of-8 performance in Game 1, Zach Randolph responded in a big way in Game 2. Although he shot 33 percent from the field, Randolph was able to post 15 points and 18 rebounds.

Marc Gasol was the most active Memphis player on both ends of the floor, but was hounded by the Spurs' aggression in the post. The Spaniard finished with 12 points, 14 rebounds, four assists and two blocks.

Both the Spurs and Grizzlies struggled to create offense early (shooting 31.8 and 27.8 percent, respectively), as defense reigned supreme. Memphis was forced into four first-quarter turnovers, but was buoyed by Gasol's stout defense (two first-quarter blocks).

With Conley in early foul trouble and Tony Allen struggling to produce offensively, Lionel Hollins was forced to turn to a backcourt of Keyon Dooling and Jerryd Bayless. Surprisingly, the move paid off as Bayless wound up posting a mark of plus-six in four first-quarter minutes.

Then, the second quarter happened.

Not only was the Memphis offense harsh on the eyes (34-percent shooting for the game), but the Spurs' defense didn't do it any favors. As a team, the Spurs compiled nine first-half blocks, limiting the Grizzlies to 31 points over the game's first 24 minutes.

By comparison, the Spurs scored 31 points in the second quarter alone.

On the night, Bayless and Dooling finished with 18 and five points, respectively.

Game 3 tips off Saturday at 9 p.m. ET from Memphis.

Twitter Reaction

The Spurs took an early lead thanks to some brilliant off-ball cuts and precise passing.

However, the pace favored the Grizzlies for the game's first 12 minutes. A deliberate, defensive battle will always favor the Grizzlies, as the Spurs finished the season ranked sixth in pace (per Basketball-Reference).

Conley picked up two fouls midway through the first quarter, which forced Lionel Hollins to turn to Dooling rather early.

Bonner is known as a three-point specialist, but his defense throughout the first two games of the Western Conference Finals has been superb.

A wild sequence near the close of the second quarter resulted in a flurry of Grizzlies misses. Charles Smith flashbacks were in order.

Philadelphia Eagles Running Back Breakdown

Yueh Ho — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:11:10 -0400

With LeSean McCoy and Bryce Brown leading the way, running back is a position of strength on the Philadelphia Eagles. The team currently carries five running backs and the question is not whether someone will get cut, but rather who.

It's no secret that Chip Kelly likes to run the ball, and with an offensive line that is expected to improve, the Eagles rushing attack should improve as well. The question is how much we can expect each of the backs currently on the roster to contribute.

Here is a prediction for the impact of each of the team's running backs in 2013.

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WWE SmackDown Spoilers: Complete Results and Analysis for May 24

Tim Keeney — Wed, 22 May 2013 00:06:17 -0400

After the curious ending to Raw on Monday night, there were plenty of questions to be answered at the next SmackDown.

While Triple-H, the center of many of those questions, wasn't at Tuesday's taping in Omaha, Neb., Curtis Axel was there to explain how it was he who took out The Game, before he went on to squash Sin Cara.

Additionally, Daniel Bryan was in singles action, the Intercontinental and U.S. titles were on the line, and several other stars were showcased in the seemingly jam-packed event.

Let's take a look at the complete spoilers.

Quick Results

Intercontinental Championship: The Miz defeats Wade Barrett via disqualification. Barrett keeps the title.

Daniel Bryan defeats Jack Swagger via submission. Bryan and Kane argue afterwards.

Chris Jericho defeats The Big Show via countout.

Curtis Axel defeats Sin Cara.

United States Championship: Kofi Kingston vs. Dean Ambrose ends with a disqualification.

The Shield defeats Randy Orton, Sheamus and Kingston via pinfall.

Where Does The Shield Go Next?

On Raw last night, The Shield, Team Hell No and Kofi Kingston combined for a pay-per-view-worthy match:

I'm guessing no one would mind if we saw another month of that exact same feud, but it would appear the WWE is heading in another direction.

After Kingston vs. Ambrose ended with Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins interfering on SmackDown, it wasn't Team Hell No, but rather Sheamus and Randy Orton coming through with the save.

Teddy Long then booked the six-man tag match.

The Shield ended up winning when Ambrose pinned Kingston, but Team Hell No came down the ramp and threw Ambrose and Rollins back into the ring, where they were subsequently met with an RKO and Brogue Kick to finish the show.

Was that the passing-of-the-torch moment by Team Hell No? Will Orton and Sheamus team up at WWE Payback?

It will certainly be intriguing to see how this plays out in the upcoming weeks.

Daniel Bryan to Singles Competition?

Here's another sign Orton and Sheamus (along with Kingston) could be the new feud for The Shield.

Not only did Bryan look good in his singles win over Jack Swagger, who appears to be toast, but the Submission Specialist reportedly looked "crazy" before getting into an argument with Kane.

That sounds somewhat like the beginning of a heel turn to me, but it's something we'll have to monitor closely on Friday before jumping to conclusions.

Nevertheless, the breakup of Team Hell No was highly anticipated earlier in the year, and even if Bryan doesn't turn heel, the loss of the tag team titles could mean that separation is finally coming.

Will Wade Barrett Ever Win a Match?

Poor Wade Barrett.

Even when he defends his Intercontinental title, he doesn't actually win a match on his own.

However, it is certainly worth noting that the DQ came when Fandango interrupted and Barrett hit him with the Bullhammer.

Nevertheless, there is hope. Combine these events with Monday's tag team match, and it would appear Barrett is at least actually getting a feud:

Perhaps we are headed for Barrett vs. The Miz vs. Fandango at WWE Payback.

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