* This week (Sept. 7) in ESPN the Magazine

Only one feature in the issue (NFL Preview) and it concentrates on the Texas Rangers’ pitching staff.

Hearing some disturbing things lately about this publication.

From Thewrap.com:

"

The numbers are hard to fathom. According to the Audit Bureau of Circulations, a staggering 75 percent of consumer magazines saw their single-copy sales decline between June and December of 2008 — the most recent industry-wide stats available.

"

For one thing, the powers that be are toying with the idea of offering a $1 renewal for their 2 million subscribers (warning: very loud video link).Hey, I’ve been with them from Day 1 and have yet to receive such an offer; what’s the deal?

Is that why they’re tying with the idea of a nude issue, highlighting Danica Patrick?

Of course, being up in the air like this has affected the mag’s financial outlook.

Stay tuned.