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PITTSBURGH -- Adam Wainwright is still in search of his best stuff. Wholesale China Jerseys . His bat made sure his best wasnt necessary.The St. Louis ace drove in three runs and survived five occasionally bumpy innings to pick up his first victory since mid-July as the Cardinals drummed the staggering Pittsburgh Pirates 12-6 on Monday.Wainwright hit an RBI-double off Chad Kuhl (3-3) in the second and added a two-run single in the fourth as the Cardinals held on to the second wild card spot in the National League by sending the Pirates to their seventh straight loss.We needed that win, Wainwright said. We need every win that we can get coming down the stretch. Any part that I can play in that is a treat for me, a privilege.Wainwright (10-8) allowed four runs and struck out five as his ERA rose to 4.61 while picking up his first victory since July 16. He hardly needed to be sharp as the Cardinals battered Pittsburghs beleaguered pitching staff. Jedd Gyorko and Matt Adams homered for St. Louis to extend the teams streak of games with at least one home run to a club-record 24.Andrew McCutchen and Adam Frazier hit home runs for the Pirates, who have been outscored 47-22 during their current slide. A week ago Pittsburgh was well within striking distance of the Cardinals for a playoff spot but have fallen 4 1/2 games behind St. Louis and dropped below .500 (67-68) for the first time since July 2.Were trying to figure ourselves out and get out of this and get back to playing baseball the way we want to play, shortstop Jordy Mercer said. We just have to keep going.St. Louis pounded out 14 hits -- eight for extra bases -- against five pitchers and wasted little time getting to Kuhl, who has been steady if not spectacular since joining the rotation full-time a month ago.Wainwrights double to the wall in center field put the Cardinals in front and Stephen Piscottys two-run double later in the inning gave Wainwright an early cushion, one he flirted with giving away. Pittsburgh touched him for two runs in the bottom of the inning but Wainwright avoided major damage.I hate giving up runs after we score, Wainwright said. Thats driving me crazy. But what we did do well there is we held them to two. We could have let that inning get away from us, and we didnt.Jeff Locke came on relief of Kuhl in the third and the Cardinals quickly went to work. Kolten Wongs RBI single against him made it 4-2 and Gyorko opened the fourth with a long home run down the left-field line for his 26th of the year.Wainwrights bloop to left later in the inning pushed St. Louis lead to six runs and allowed Wainwright to leave after five innings in which he needed 93 pitches to get 15 outs.He was at 93 pitches, and were in September, Cardinals manager Mike Matheny said. The first two (innings) were stressful. To me, weve got a lead that we think our bullpen can hold. I guess your greatest argument (for leaving him in) is you want to see him hit again.TRAINERS ROOMCardinals: Piscotty left in the fifth inning after being hit in the wrist with a pitch though Matheny said X-rays were negative. ... RHP Mike Leake will return after a bout with the shingles when he starts on Wednesday. ... C Brayan Pena is finally healthy after battling injuries much of the season but the team will not use him to catch a full game.Pirates: C Francisco Cervelli was taken out of the game after the fourth inning with discomfort in his left thumb. ... C Elias Diaz is being evaluated for cellulitis in his left leg and will be re-evaluated on Thursday.UP NEXTCardinals: Rookie Luke Weaver makes his fourth major league start on Tuesday. Weaver is 1-2 with a 3.86 ERA and gave up three runs over six innings in his last start against Milwaukee.Pirates: Veteran Ryan Vogelsong (3-4, 3.56 ERA) will make his ninth start of the season and seventh since returning from the DL on Aug. 4 after missing more than two months while recovering from facial fractures sustained when he was hit by a pitch on May 23. Vogelsong is 3-7 with a 5.75 ERA in 22 appearances against the Cardinals. Authentic Cheap Jerseys NFL . Nigeria beat surprise package Ethiopia 2-0 in the second leg of their playoff for a comfortable 4-1 aggregate victory. Victor Moses converted a 20th-minute penalty after an Ethiopian handball, and Victor Obinna made certain of Nigerias place in Brazil with his powerful free kick in the 82nd at UJ Esuene Stadium. Authentic College Jerseys 2018 . Parker had 26 points and eight assists and San Antonio beat Toronto 112-99 Monday night. "We won that game because of Tony Parkers aggressiveness," Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said. "His juice; his aggression all night long. http://www.chinanflcheapjerseys.com/ . After taking two big hits this week -- losing at home and dropping back-to-back games for the first time all season -- Indiana struck back by playing its most complete game of the year. RICHMOND, Va. -- Kyle Lauletta threw a pair of fourth-quarter touchdown passes to help power Richmond to a 31-17 victory over Delaware Saturday.The Blue Hens scored first on a 3-yard run by Jalen Randolph midway through the first quarter, but Lauletta even the score with a 12-yard pass to Garrett Hudson and the Spiders added a 6-yard, second-quarter touchdown run by Deontez Thompson and a 23-yard Griffin Trau field goal to make it 17-7 at the break.Lauletta threw a 30-yard touchdownn pass to Hudson to start the fourth quarter and added a 36-yard strike to Brian Brown to complete the scoring. Cheap NCAA Jerseys China. auletta was 21 of 35 for 286 yards and three touchdowns for Richmond (8-2, 5-2 Colonial). Thompson carried 24 times for 132 yards and a touchdown.Joe Walker was 11 of 18 for 182 yards for Delaware (4-6, 2-5), but was picked off twice. 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MOSCOW -- Russian sports minister Vitaly Mutko, who has come under scrutiny in Russias doping scandal and was banned from attending the Rio de Janeiro Olympics, was promoted to a deputy prime minister on Wednesday. Dennis Smith Jr. Youth Jersey .President Vladimir Putin approved a proposal by Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev to appoint Mutko to a deputy premiership in charge of sport, tourism and youth policies, in a decision shown by state TV.Mutkos longtime deputy minister, Pavel Kolobkov, a former gold medal-winning Olympic fencer who has represented Russia at the World Anti-Doping Agency, moves up to become the new sports minister.Mutkos elevation comes despite him having been personally accused by World Anti-Doping Agency investigator Richard McLaren of ordering the cover-up of a failed drug test by a foreign soccer player.Mutko was also denied accreditation to the Rio Olympics in August by the IOC after being named in the McLaren report. He has denied wrongdoing and suggested the report was biased against Russia.Mutkos anti-doping adviser, Nataliya Zhelanova, and one of his deputies at the sports ministry, Yuri Nagornykh, have been suspended on Putins orders since July, when McLaren accused them of helping to orchestrate cover-ups of hundreds of drug tests.Mutko becomes one of nine deputy prime ministers in Russia, a title which adds to the wide array of other posts he holds. In addition to his governmental duties, Mutko is a member of the ruling council of world soccer governing body FIFA, chairman of the local organizing committee for the 2018 World Cup in Russia and president of the Russian soccer federation.As well as the increase in rank, Mutkos new role reportedly gives him back powers over youth affairs and tourism, which were previously under his control when they were separated from the sports ministry by Putin in a government shake-up in 2012.There have been sporadic signs of discontent among some Russian sports figures over Mutkos leadership. Last month, he survived a leadership challenge as head of the soccer federation, a non-governmental organization. Mutkos main rival accused him of using the sports ministrys authority to coerce voters at the federations conference and suggested some had been threatened with losing their jobs for failing to back Mutko.Mutko personally intervened to cover up a doping case of at least one foreign (soccer player) in the Russian League, according to email evidence obtained by the WADA inquiry led by McLaren.The report alleged an additional 11 positive tests of Russian soccer players were made to disappear in a state-sponsored doping program from late 2011 to 2015.WADAs executive board called on FIFAs independent ethics court to act against Mutko, who has been a member of the scandal-scarred soccer bodys ruling panel since 2009.Among seven key demands, WADA leaders urged FIFA leaders to look into allegations concerning football (soccer) and the role played by a member of its executive committee, Minister Vitaly Mutko.---AP Sports Writer James Ellingworth in Minsk, Belarus, contributed to this report. Dennis Smith Jr. Jersey . Thats about all he can do right now, so hes trying not to think about when he might be able to play again for the Los Angeles Lakers. Dennis Smith Jr. Blue Jersey .C. -- Manny Malhotra had two goals and an assist, leading the Carolina Hurricanes to a 6-3 win over the Ottawa Senators on Saturday. http://www.mavericksteamofficial.com/dennis-smith-jr-mavericks-jersey/ . -- There were so many positives from the Orlando Magics first victory of the season that it was hard for coach Jacque Vaughn to stop praising his players. While its crucial fantasy basketball players adjust lineups throughout the year, making advantageous trades and waiver-wire pickups, much of your success or failure on the season will come down to the draft. Did your first-round selection flop? Did your late-round sleeper exceed expectations? How this plays out could be the difference in whether you take home the league title in 2016-17.To help you navigate this process, our group of experts got together to provide their list of sleepers, breakouts and busts. Its defined as follows:Sleeper: A player who will far surpass his average draft position (ADP) in standard ESPN leagues for the 2016 season.Breakout: A player who will leap into or close to the upper echelon of players at his position for the first time because of a dramatic increase in production compared to his previous seasons.Bust: A player who is expected to be a solid starter in standard ESPN leagues but will fail to live up to those expectations this season.Our panel includes John Cregan, Joe Kaiser, Kevin Pelton, Jim McCormick, Matthew Wittyngham, Tom Carpenter and Jeremias Engelmann.SleepersNikola Mirotic, SF/PF, Chicago Bulls There arent many endgame picks out there that are capable of carrying a team in 3s while qualifying at PF. Mirotic was victimized by a little too much Fantasyland hype going into last season. Now hes going undrafted in many leagues. If he stays healthy, he could prove deadly in Chicagos new-look lineup as a much-needed 3-point option. Plus hell chip in a steal and block for good measure. Mirotic is Ryan Anderson, but five rounds later. -- John CreganRyan Anderson, PF, Houston RocketsThe 28-year-old stretch-4 enters a new stage of his career as he joins a Houston Rockets team with Mike DAntoni running the show. To me, this is a perfect recipe for Anderson, who will likely have the green light to shoot as many 3-pointers as he so desires. Though not a big contributor at any areas aside from scoring and 3s, Anderson is a proven commodity with something to prove on his new team. He has averaged 5.4 3-point attempts per game over the course of his career, but thats a number that could easily rise to 7 or 8 this season under the up-tempo style of DAntoni, making Anderson a good value after pick No. 75 and an even better value if you can get him in the 80s. -- Joe KaiserJames Ennis, SF, Memphis GrizzliesThe Grizzlies didnt offer much certainty at media day that Chandler Parsons would be ready to go for the season opener, and if hes out the door is open for Ennis to play a big role given Memphis lack of wing depth. Quietly, Ennis averaged 15.9 PPG in nine games with the injury-battered New Orleans Pelicans at the end of last season. While hes unlikely to be that productive on a relatively healthy Grizzlies team, Id consider him as a flier in the last round of a deeper draft. -- Kevin PeltonMyles Turner, PF, Indiana PacersTurner is my favorite sleeper given his amazing upside at a shallow center position. Going at pick No. 109 on average in ESPN live drafts, Turner could provide massive profits for investors given his elite block potential. Turner led the NBA playoffs in blocks per game and block rate and is poised to consume nearly 30 minutes per night for a retooled team that could be a dark-horse challenger to Clevelands crown in the conference. In a league where rim protection proves rare, Turner could become a special asset and the price is quite nice. -- Jim McCormickVictor Oladipo, SG, Oklahoma City ThunderThe offseason moves of the NBA shined on Victor Oladipo. First, he moves from Orlando, a team ranking 22nd in offensive efficiency, to Oklahoma City, a team who ranked second. His usage percentage? 22.8, second to Nikola Vucevic and .4 percentage points above Jason Smith. Now in Oklahoma City, hell also be a No. 2, but to Russell Westbrook, who is pegged to have an MVP-like season. With Westbrook on the court last season, OKC had an offensive efficiency of 113, which wouldve ranked best in the NBA.Oladipo has increased his FG percentage each year in the NBA, starting at 41.9 and finished 2015 with a 43.8 FG percentage. Last season, teammates not named Kevin Durant shot a near-5 percentage points worse with Westbrook off the court. With the Thunder possibly going with a Enes Kanter-Steven Adams duo, Westbrook slashing to the hoop would open up Oladipo on the wings or for an uncontested mid-range shot, ideally. I think in the up-tempo, top-10 in pace system, Oladipo has an opportunity to really shine. In addition to playing in a division with the Nuggets, Timberwolves and Jazz, hell have multiple games against sub-par defenses where he can explode. -- Matthew WittynghamElfrid Payton, PG, Orlando MagicOut from under domineering coach Scotty Skiles and no longer having to run alongside combo guard Victor Oladipo, the door is wide open for Payton to take a major step forward in his fantasy production. Granted, Payton is a lousy free throw shooter and hasnt proved himself as a scorer yet, but new coach Frank Vogel said he has given the guard the green light to shoot this season, which is key.After the break last season, he averaged 9.9 PPG, 7.5 APG and 1.1 SPG -- pretty intriguing numbers for a 22-year-old who will have the rock in his hand plenty, assuming he keeps D.J. Augustin in the backseat. With an ADP of 106, he makes for a terrific target in the later middle rounds if your team is looking weak in assists. -- Tom CarpenterBrandon Jennings, PG, New York KnicksThe New York Knicks have only two point guards on their roster: Derrick Rose and Brandon Jennings. Jennings, having only played about 45 games over the last two seasons combined, isnt high on most peoples radar, but heres why I like him: Jennings just turned 27, and the reason for him missing all those games was a freak Achilles injury. That injury is very unlikely to reoccur. Achilles tendon ruptures also tend to have a long recovery time, so expect a healthy improvement in per-minute production from what he did in 2015-16.Furthermore, the player in front of Jennings on the depth chart, Derrick Rose, is not only extremely injury prone, he is also currently under investigation by the LAPD for allegations of rape. Given all this, I would not be surprised if Jennings starts more than half of this seasons games, and gets back to solid per-game-production. -- Jeremias EngelmannBreakoutsNikola Jokic, C, Denver Nuggets Karl-Anthony Towns and Kristaps Porzingis will attract more sophomore year buzz. Thats fine by me. If I told you that you could have Porzingis-type upside at center, but 10-15 picks later in your draft, would you believe me? Because given 30-34 minutes a night, Jokic will put up one of the most statistically diverse lines in fantasy. Jokic followed up a strong closeout to his rookie season with an even stronger Olympic performance. Hes rolling into his leap year (year two) campaign and should post positive contributions in every fantasy category. Double-doubles, blocks, assists, steals, 3s, terrific percentages... Jokic is a top-30 player. -- John CreganEvan Fournier, SG/SF, Orlando MagicOrlandos trade of Victor Oladipo for Serge Ibaka creates a situation where the 23-year-old Fournier, coming off a career-high 15.4 PPG last season, is now one of the only true scoring options in the Magic backcourt. He took 11.8 shots per game last season and I expect that to rise in a starting lineup full of players who are known more for things other than scoring (Elfrid Payton, Aaron Gordon, Serge Ibaka). The lone exception is offensive-minded center Nikola Vucevic.Fournier is a steady source of 3-pointers (two per game last season) and steals (1.2 SPG) as well as a secondary source of assists and rebounds, and he shoots at a high percentage for a swingman (46.2 FG, 83.6 FT). Increased usage rate and shot attempts should help his scoring approach 20 PPG in his fifth NBA season, and hes someone to consider in the late 40s. -- Joe KaiserDennis Schroder, PG, Atlanta HawksIm buying all the Schroder stock available. The Hawks system is friendly to point guards, and with Jeff Teagues departure, Schroder is poised to benefit. My SCHOENE projections have him averaging 17.0 points and 6.2 assists in 30 minutes per game, similar to (and in fact slightly better than) Teagues averages of 15.7 points and 5.9 assists last season while splitting time with Schroder. -- Kevin PeltonDennis Schroder, PG, Atlanta HawksUsage rate is an advanced metric that aims to reveal how much of a teams offensive results a player consumes while on the floor. Schroder ranked ninth in usage this past season and is now due a sizable uptick in minutes and touches with Jeff Teague joining Turner in Indy. As you may have noticed in our recent staff mock, Im confidently chasing shares of both Myles Turner and Schroder whenever possible. Talent plus youth plus opportunity is often the requisite formula for fantasy breakouts and enduring upside. -- Jim McCormickDAngelo Russell, PG, Los Angeles LakersHe is finaally out of the clutches of a Kobe Bryant-Byron Scott-run team. Dennis Smith Jr. Authentic Jersey. Russell showed signs of life towards the end of last season, including the ice in my veins game, where he finished with 39 points, six rebounds and three assists. His peak month was February of last season, shooting 46 percent from the field and from 3-point range, in addition to a PER of 19, his highest in a month.The Lakers hired Luke Walton in the offseason as the new head coach, the person who basically strategized an unreal Warriors start thanks to peak point guard play. Under his leadership, Russell can flourish. He has weapons to help him out as well in Julius Randle, Brandon Ingram (eventually) and veteran leadership in Luol Deng and Timofey Mozgov. -- Matthew WittynghamVictor Oladipo, SG, Oklahoma City ThunderIts the age-old fantasy adage: Talent plus opportunity equals fantasy gold. During his first three seasons, Oladipo was stuck on an Orlando Magic team that mostly ran at a middling pace and limited his usage. Even when they worked at a relatively decent pace last season, Oladipo ranked just 77th in the NBA in usage (22.8). Now he joins an even faster-paced team in OKC that lost Kevin Durant, who ranked ninth in usage last season at 30.5. No doubt, Russell Westbrook is going to be an insane usage hog, but he isnt going to eat up that 30.5 lost by Durant -- and neither are the likes of Ersan Ilyasova, Enes Kanter or Steven Adams.Consider that he averaged 19.4 PPG, 1.4 3-PPG, 3.8 APG, 4.9 RPG, and 2.1 SPG from February on last season, despite his usage remaining stuck at 22.5. His current ADP is 31, but you can make a legitimate case to take him in the second round. Working off of Westbrook, Oladipo has tremendous upside as a player capable of racking up huge steals to go with scoring, 3s and dimes. -- Tom CarpenterClint Capela, C, Houston RocketsClint Capelas production last season, per 36-minutes, almost rivaled Dwight Howards: He scored 13.3 points, together with 12.1 rebounds, 2.3 blocks and a very good 1.4 steals. His FG% of 58 percent was also one of the leagues best. On a per-game basis, though, the numbers didnt look as pretty -- Capela was only the second-string center and played only 19 minutes a game.With Howard gone, we think Capelas MPG are most definitely going to rise. With the Rockets bringing in Ryan Anderson, a power forward whose specialty is making 3s, Capela wont have to worry about competing for rebounds with another big. Age is also working in Capelas favor: At only 22 years old, Capela is likely to still improve in many facets of the game. -- Jeremias EngelmannBustsAndre Drummond, C, Detroit PistonsWatching?Andre Drummond?gather possession of a basketball is one of our simplest and purest NBA pleasures. The top rebounder in fantasy. Hes also a stat-based defender that will chip in 1.5 blocks and a (gaudy for a center) 1.5 steals a night. As his touches on offense increase, Drummonds points per game output will continue to inch closer to 20 points per game.And its all meaningless. Meaningless as long as Drummond continues to rank among the worst free throw shooters in the history of basketball. Thats not hyperbole. His 36 percent success rate in 2015-16 rated as one of the worst ever.Think of it this way ... if youre in a turnover league, would you be scared off of giveaway machines like John Wall, Rajon Rondo and Dwyane Wade? Players whose category-killing deficiency in one less-followed (but equally important) metric forces your entire team to punt? Thats Drummond in any league that tabulates free throw production, but with exponentially higher risk.Or think of it this way...if Drummond had turned in a league-average, replacement-level performance at the charity stripe? He would have finished the 2015-16 campaign 12th overall on our Player Rater with 12.96 points. Thats right between Paul Millsap and Kyle Lowry. But instead of second-round production, Drummonds minus-9.76 free throw ratio knocked him down to 114th. Thats right between Cody Zeller and Lou Williams. -- John CreganKlay Thompson, SG, Golden State WarriorsWeve moved Thompson down in the rankings, and hes going in the third round in many drafts rather than the second round like last season, but Im still very concerned that Thompson will be the Warrior whose stats are most negatively impacted by the arrival of Kevin Durant. Coming off a season where he posted career highs in points (22.1) and shots per game (17.3), Thompson will almost certainly see both of those numbers take a noticeable dip in 2016-17. And his usage, which ranged from 24.3-25.5 over the past two seasons, will likely fall as well. These are all huge red flags, and Thompson doesnt do enough aside from scoring and shooting the 3-pointer to make up for a lesser role in the offense, which will have me looking elsewhere at that early stage in the draft. -- Joe KaiserDerrick Rose, PG, New York KnicksThe hope that Rose can revitalize his career in the Big Apple should be tempered by the Knicks continuing to emphasize elements of the triangle offense. Thats a bad fit for Rose, who isnt a threat without the ball in his hands because of his poor outside shooting and needs to attack the basket in the pick-and-roll to have any kind of success. Expect a low shooting percentage and few assists. -- Kevin PeltonRajon Rondo, PG, Chicago BullsI was tempted to include both Rondo and Dwyane Wade as co-busts here, which I suppose I am by mentioning them in the lede. Either way, I dont appreciate the usage overlap well likely see with this ball-dominant backcourt duo, especially with Jimmy Butler still in the mix as a high-usage asset himself. Rondo is a player who requires the ball and heavy minutes to net the elite assist and steal numbers we need for him given the utter lack of scoring and 3-point production. With this trio of high-usage guards in Chicago, someone will lose out, if not all three to a degree. -- Jim McCormickDwyane Wade, SG, Chicago Bulls It is easy to say Stephen Curry, not because hes going to literally bust and be bad, but because of his video game 2015-16 season. However, Im going Wade. Wade was the go-to player in Miami, despite his injuries and age. Wade finished fifth in usage percentage last season among qualified players, topping out at 31.5 percent, just below Kobe Bryant and right above Russell Westbrook.He now goes to a Chicago Bulls team devoid of outside shooting and playing a faster pace than he is used to in Miami. Since entering the NBA, the highest pace Miami played at was 95.8, his last season that added Goran Dragic, a notable transition player. The Bulls played at 98.3 in 2015, Fred Hoibergs first season as head coach. A combination of Wade not being the top option, the fast pace and his age, I dont think he will play up to the same standards and results as in Miami. -- Matthew WittynghamKlay Thompson, SG, Golden State WarriorsTo me, a bust is a player who fails to live up to where he goes in a draft. Thompson is an incredible real-life shooter, but his ADP as of late September was 21st overall, which is a round or two too early for my tastes. The issue in fantasy is that Thompson is just a 3-point specialist who has contributed little else, aside from some quality percentages, but even his FT% is hollow, since he attempts just a few per game.Now he has to compete with Durant for shots, so his ceiling is capped and his floor likely will slide downward too. Furthermore, the one stat he churns out the most -- 3s -- is something you can garner elsewhere; last season, 28 players averaged at least 2.0 3-PPG, a dozen of whom chipped in at least 2.5 PPG.Id much rather take upside players like Victor Oladipo, Kemba Walker, C.J. McCollum or Gordon Hayward at the second-third round turn. -- Tom CarpenterHarrison Barnes, SF, Dallas MavericksHarrison Barnes was signed this summer by the Dallas Mavericks to a 4-year/$94M deal. A deal of this magnitude would suggest that Barnes is capable of star-level production. The Mavericks might think Barnes has it in him to be the focal point of an offense, and that his production was simply limited by playing with other great players. But I think his below-average production in 2015-16 simply shows that hes just not that good of a player.For one thing, playing with teammates so offensively gifted should have led to more than a measly 1.8 assists per game. Or maybe should have allowed him to focus more on the defensive side -- but he only recorded 0.2 blocks and 0.6 steals per game. Furthermore, his shooting percentages are a sure thing to drop with the Mavericks, as Barnes wont have the benefit any more of opponents changing their entire defensive game-plan to keep Curry in check. In all, Barnes might see a small uptick in per-game production -- mostly due to playing more minutes -- but dont expect a sudden rise to stardom. -- Jeremias Engelmann Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
EAST RUTHERFORD, N. Theo Hernandez Real Madrid Jersey .J. -- Defense wins championships, and right now the New York Giants are convincing many that they might be the NFLs best.Forget that they are ranked in the middle of the league. In the past two games, Steve Spagnuolos group has limited division leaders Dallas and Detroit to a total of 13 points, and Sundays 17-6 win over the Lions on Sunday came in a game where top cornerback Janoris Jenkins left early in the second quarter with a back injury.Add in another Odell Beckham Jr. one-hand touchdown catch to delight replay fanatics and the Giants have inched closer to their first playoff berth since 2011, and maybe more, with a win that snapped the NFC North-leading Lions five-game winning streak.This is really exciting, I dont even know the word to use, linebacker Jonathan Casillas said. Its starting to be a beautiful thing. Thirteen points the last two weeks, we like where were at now.The win was the eighth in nine games for the Giants (10-4) and it gave them their best record through 14 games since 2008, when they opened 11-3.The formula was the one the team has followed in Ben McAdoos first season: Just enough offense and a tough stingy, pass-rushing defense that has now come up with big back-to-back efforts against two division leaders in Dallas (11-2) and Detroit (9-5), giving up 13 total points.Eli Manning (20 of 28 for 201 yards) threw a 6-yard touchdown pass to Sterling Shepard on a 75-yard opening drive and then iced the game with a 4-yard TD pass that Beckham caught with his left hand and then pranced into the end zone for a 11-point lead with 5:20 to play.Norm, veteran receiver Victor Cruz said of Beckhams one-hander, which still paled in comparison to the fully extended TD catch against Dallas in his rookie year. The norm. I wasnt even surprised.Beckham said catches like that just kind of happens for him.You practice it and practice it, he said. Thats why you practice right hand layups and left hand layups. Its just kind of, I dont know.Beckham, who had six catches for 64 yards, almost wasnt done. He reversed field about three times on a 63-yard punt return that brought the remaining fans to their seats less than a minute later. The electrifying return was nullified by an illegal block, but was simply a thrill to watch.The Lions, who had rallied in the fourth quarter to win eight of their nine games, never came close to a comeback in this one as the Giants made them play on a long field all day.Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford didnt show any major issues playing with an injured middle finger on his throwing hand. He finished 24 of 39 for 274 yards and an interception , finding Golden Tate eight times for 122 yards.Theyre a good team, Stafford said. Their secondary is probably the best weve played all year. Theyve got a really good defensive line. We knew it was going to be a challenge going into the day. We just didnt make enough plays.The biggest play for the Lions was a 67-yard throw from Stafford to Tate that gave the Lions first-and-10 at the Giants 11, trailing 7-3 in the second quarter. On first down, Zach Zenner fumbled at the end of a 7-yard run after being hit by Leon Hall and Olivier Vernon recovered in the end zone.Obviously, we lost the turnover battle, lost the rushing battle. Its tough to win on the road when you do that, Stafford said. Weve got to look in the mirror and correct what we did wrong today.Matt Prater accounted for the Lions points with field goals of 48 yards in the second quarter and 33 in the third. The second cut the deficit to 10-6 -- New York had gotten a 47-yard field goal from Robbie Gould late in the second quarter.However, the Lions never got closer as New York limited Detroit to 5 of 14 on third down and 324 yards.CANT STOP ODELL: Beckham had six catches for 64 yards. He has 85 catches for 1,173 yards and 10 touchdowns this season, and is the first player in NFL history to get at least 80 catches and 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first three seasons.WINGY: Less than a week after being named the NFC special teams player of the week, Brad Wing of the Giants had a punt partially blocked by Brandon Copeland for an 18-yard net. The Lions got the ball at their own 43, but failed to convert. Wing had two punts downed inside the 5 in the second half.OVERLOOKED BIG PLAYS: Rookie cornerback Eli Apple made one of the biggest plays for the Giants, recovering from 5 yards back to break up a deep pass to Tate in the end zone early in the second quarter.I didnt think I was going to get there, but the ball hung up a little and I got my fingertip on it, said Apple, who had seven tackles. Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, who also had seven tackles, also made up yards to catch Tate on his 67-yard reception.INJURIES: Detroit starting CB Darius Slay left in the second quarter after aggravating a hamstring injury. Leading rusher Theo Riddick missed his second straight game with a wrist injury.For New York, Jenkins also left in the second quarter with a back injury and did not return. Backup QB Ryan Nassib was inactive because of a recurring elbow injury. LG Justin Pugh played for the first time since injuring a knee on Nov. 6UP NEXT:Lions: Visit Cowboys on Dec. 26Giants: Visit Eagles on Dec. 22.---For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP-NFL Luka Modric Jersey . -- The Portland Timbers and Real Salt Lake played to a 0-0 tie Saturday night that left the top of the Western Conference standings unchanged. Toni Kroos Jersey . Ouellette, from Montreal, already has three Olympic gold medals since joining the team in 1999. http://www.realmadridcfstore.com/Women-Casemiro-Real-Madrid-Jersey/ .05 million next season unless Graham and the Saints subsequently agree on a long-term deal. The designation was released Monday after the deadline passed for NFL teams to use franchise or transition tags on players becoming free agents. PITTSBURGH -- Joey Votto is having one special finish to the season. So good even he isnt sure it can continue for much longer.Votto celebrated his 33rd birthday with four hits, including a home run, and the Cincinnati Reds beat the collapsing Pittsburgh Pirates 8-7 on Saturday night.Votto led off the ninth inning with his 23rd homer, a drive to right off Juan Nicasio that gave the Reds a two-run cushion. The 2010 NL MVP is hitting .427 in 51 games since the All-Star break and could become the first major leaguer to hit .400 in the second half since Ichiro Suzuki had a .429 average in 2004 with the Seattle Mariners.Its pretty unlikely, Votto said. Well see. Just mathematically, its very unlikely to hit .400 for such a long period.Reds manager Bryan Price, who was the Mariners pitching coach in 2004, believes Votto can follow in Ichiros footsteps.Joey is such a great hitter, Price said. He can hit the ball out of the ballpark, hit the ball all over the field and has such great plate discipline that he gets on base at a .430 clip. Its special when you see this kind of production over this period of time.The Pirates flickering hopes of a fourth consecutive postseason berth took another hit as they dropped 5 1/2 games back of St. Louis for the second NL wild card with their 10th loss in 12 games.When asked if he would call a meeting in an effort to spark his team, manager Clint Hurdle gave a terse answer.The one thing I do is when I talk to guys, I dont tell you I talk to them, he said.Francisco Cervelli hit a two-out RBI single in the ninth for Pittsburgh, but Tony Cingrani held on for his 17th save. With runners on first and second, Jordy Mercer bounced into a fielders choice for the final out.Brandon Phillips had three of Cincinnatis 15 hits, helping the Reds rally from an early 4-0 deficit for their second straight win following nine losses in 11 games. Tucker Barnhart drove in three runs.Phillips is hitting .365 (19 for 52) with four homers and 10 RBI in 14 games against the Pirates this season.The Reds jumped in front with three runs in thhe fifth against rookie reliever Trevor Williams (1-1). Sergio Ramos Real Madrid Jersey. . Scott Schebler had a bases-loaded walk before Barnhart made it 7-4 with a two-run double.Jung Ho Kangs two-run homer off rookie starter Robert Stephenson gave the Pirates a 4-0 lead in the third inning. Kang finished with two hits and three RBI.Pirates second baseman Josh Harrison left in the sixth inning after injuring his right groin while legging out a two-run double that got the Pirates within one at 7-6. He is 17 for 42 (.405) with six doubles during a 10-game hit streak.Josh Smith (3-1) got the win despite allowing two runs in 2 1/3 innings.Stephenson threw 43 pitches during a two-run first inning and made it through just three innings, getting tagged for four runs and five hits.Acquired in an Aug. 1 trade with Toronto and assigned to Triple-A Indianapolis, Drew Hutchison gave up four runs and eight hits in four innings in his Pirates debut.I liked the way guys pushed through, Price said. Were down 4-0. Were struggling to win games. We have to take a struggling starter out after three innings. Then here come the Reds with four runs to tie it, three runs to take the lead then the bullpen bent a little but got the job done.TRAINERS ROOMPirates: LF Starling Marte (back spasms) sat out for a fifth straight game and there is no timetable for his return.KUHL SET FOR RETURNPirates right-hander Chad Kuhl will return to the rotation Thursday night and start at Philadelphia. The rookie was originally supposed to start Saturday but the Pirates decided to give him a break after working 134 1/3 innings between Pittsburgh and Indianapolis this season.UP NEXTReds: LHP Brandon Finnegan (8-10, 4.17 ERA) will start Sunday in the finale of the four-game series. He is winless in his last three starts despite a 3.00 ERA in that span.Pirates: RHP Ryan Vogelsong (3-4, 4.07 ERA) has allowed a combined 10 runs in nine innings in his last two starts while going 0-1. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
MONTREAL - Canadas top women tennis players will host Serbia in a Fed Cup World Group II tie. Mikhail Grabovski Golden Knights Jersey . The two-day matchup will take place Feb. 8 and 9. Choice of surface, venue, and team nominations will be decided at a later date. "We are very excited to be back in World Group and look forward to facing Serbia again this time on our home court in front of our fans," said Canada captain Sylvain Bruneau. "We have a young team who gained a lot of experience this year. This will be a big challenge, but I know that the girls will be ready for it." Canada was promoted to World Group II for the first time since 2011 after defeating Ukraine 3-2 in a World Group playoff in Kyiv this spring. Bruneaus team consisted of Montreals Eugenie Bouchard, Ottawas Gabriela Dabrowski, Stephanie Dubois of Laval, Que., and Torontos Sharon Fichman. Canada currently sits at No. 16 on the Fed Cup rankings while Serbia is ranked No. 4. The winning nation will qualify for a World Group playoff tie, while the losing team will try to keep its spot in World Group II for 2015 against a winning nation from the various Group I zonal competitions. The Fed Cup tie comes after Canadas men take on Serbia in Davis Cup semifinal play. Oscar Lindberg Jersey . The showiest items on Calgarys lot were forwards Mike Cammalleri and Lee Stempniak. Both will be unrestricted free agents this summer. Alex Tuch Golden Knights Jersey . Vaives lawyer Trevor Whiffen claims the former 50-goal man wasnt provided with a copy of the claim beforehand and that he would not have agreed to the allegations made against the NHL had he been asked to review its contents. http://www.goldenknightsnhlshop.com/brayden-mcnabb-golden-knights-jersey-c-2/ . "I wrote 36 on my sheet at the beginning of the game," the Cincinnati coach said, referring the yard line the ball would need to be snapped from. RIO DE JANEIRO -- Germany is a step closer to claiming another medal in womens Olympic field hockey. The U.S. once again will leave empty-handed.The Germans held off a late surge by the U.S. to advance to the semifinals with a 2-1 victory, putting them in position to return to the medal podium in an event they won in 2004.The U.S. wont be so fortunate, but the Rio Games were a step in the right direction for a team that finished last in 2012.Were just right where we wanted to be from the beginning on, and now we have two chances to win a medal, Germany defender Nika Lorenz said. Thats what were here for, right? Thats why you play the Olympic Games.Germanys Marie Mavers opened the scoring with a goal midway through the first period. Lisa Altenburg knocked a backhanded shot into the top of the net to put Germany up 2-0 late in the first.The German defense frustrated the Americans for the rest of the match. The United States got off just seven shots. The United States controlled possession for much of the match, but couldnt produce in close.The Americans beat No. 2 Argentina and No. 3 Australia in their first two matches at the Games, then toppled Japan and India to take the lead in their pool. The United States led their final pool play match against Britain heading into the fourth period before losing 2-1.We came into the tournaament hopeful of getting onto the podium, United States coach Craig Parnham said. Jon Merrill Golden Knights Jersey. . Weve not been able to do that. Im really proud of what this team has done here, and what weve done over the past 3 + years.Even with the early deficit, the Americans thought they had a chance.Of course, wed prefer not to be two goals down in the first part of the game, Parnham said. Its what happens. Weve been there before. Its not a big issue for us.The United States turned up the pressure in the second half, but it was for naught. The Americans came up empty on a penalty corner with two minutes left in the third period. Katelyn Falgowskis goal with 3:54 remaining gave the Americans a chance, but the Germans remained strong defensively.Had we have scored a little earlier, I think it would have been a different game, Parnham said.Parnham hopes the fast start in the tournament laid the foundation for future growth. It was the United States best effort pool play performance.The strength of the program will continue to grow, Parnham said. Hopefully, weve inspired a few young Americans to get into the sport, pick up a stick and increase our number of player base.---Follow Cliff Brunt on Twitter (at)CliffBruntAP Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys ChinaCheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
CHICAGO -- Michael Conforto is hoping a short stay in Las Vegas turns into a strong finish with the New York Mets. Omer Asik Pelicans Jersey .Conforto rejoined the Mets before the start of a three-game series against the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs. The 10th overall pick in the 2014 draft was recalled when Brandon Nimmo, another young outfielder, was optioned to Triple-A Las Vegas after Sundays 5-0 win at Philadelphia.Also Monday, Mets right-hander Matt Harvey had season-ending thoracic outlet surgery in St. Louis. Harvey finishes the year with a 4-10 record and a 4.86 ERA after going 13-8 with a 2.71 ERA in 2015.The 23-year-old Conforto made his major league debut last year and hit .270 with nine homers and 26 RBI in 56 games, helping the Mets win the NL East and make it all the way to the World Series. He then homered twice in Game 4 against Kansas City.Conforto was expected to be a key contributor this year and got off to a nice start. But he was sent down on June 25 after a prolonged slump.It was a very productive couple of weeks, 16 games or so, Conforto said. I think there was a period of obviously being upset and youve got to go through that. As soon as I turned it into an opportunity to work on some things, to get some things done and take a look at what happened over the course of the prior couple months, I think I really look a couple big steps forward.Conforto hit .344 with three homers in 16 games with Las Vegas, earning a quick return to the majors.They said he was swinging great and the powers that be said it was time, Mets manager Terry Collins said.Collins mentioned Conforto, Juan Lagares and Curtis Granderson as possible options in center after Yoenis Cespedes told reporters over the weekend he would prefer to stay in left for the rest of the year. Cespedes, who had a team-high 21 homers and 52 RBI coming into the day, has been hampered recently by a strained right quadriceps.Cespedes was in left for the series opener against the Cubs. Collins said he would be in center on Tuesday, but sounded as if he planned to keep him in left for most of the remaining part of the season.Weve got to keep him in the lineup, Collins said. I think were taxing his body pretty heavily by putting him into center field. We need him to hit and we need him to hit a lot. I just think if hes in left field, where hes comfortable and wheres theres not as much emphasis on the defensive side, that hell go back and do what we hope he can do and thats being a big production guy.Conforto said he thinks his last game in center was in college at Oregon State. But he said he was ready to play wherever Collins puts him.We had a conversation today about that, Conforto said. I know I havent played there in pro ball. But if the team needs me there, Im going to do whatever I can to prepare myself to play as well as I can there.---AP freelance reporter Mike Cranston contributed to this report.---Jay Cohen can be reached at http://www.twitter.com/jcohenap Solomon Hill Pelicans Jersey . But what about the officials? Every sport has officials and they also have stories about hard work and sacrifice but their accomplishments are seldom recognized by anyone outside their inner circle. Jarrett Jack Jersey . Hey!" The lower tier of the School End of Queens Park Rangers Loftus Road was packed solid with a very festive-sounding Chelsea choral section in this particular part of South Africa Road London, W12. http://www.pelicansbasketballpro.com/Hollis-Thompson-Pelicans-Jersey/ .5 seconds to play in the game, Kevin Love never stopped believing that they would come out of there with a win. Flying Artie has upset a field of top sprinting three-year-olds, including stablemate Extreme Choice, to win the Group One Coolmore Stakes.Sent out as a $10 chance, Flying Artie threaded his way through the field at Flemington on Saturday for jockey Hugh Bowman.He chimed in late before scoring from the heavily backed Astern ($2.80), with Star Turn ($4.60) taking the minor placing.He will only improve as he matures, Bowman said of the Mick Price-trained ccolt. Kendrick Perkins Jersey. .Hes the real deal physically, but I think mentally he appreciated being able to snug in behind them and exposed late.It was a dominant win and it spells very exciting things for a bright future.ESPN.com.au will be covering Melbourne Cup Day live. Join our interactive blog from 10am (AEDT) on Tuesday, Nov. 1. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
MIAMI -- Hassan Whiteside likes when teams challenge him inside. Lucas Moura Jersey .The reigning NBA blocks leader piled up seven to go with 12 points and 17 rebounds and the Miami Heat beat the Milwaukee Bucks 96-73 on Thursday night to end a six-game losing streak.Theres two different types of coaches and teams, Whiteside said. Theres coaches that say, `Hassan Whiteside is down there, dont attack him. And then there are coaches that say, `Hassan Whiteside is down there, lets attack him, God bless those teams. Long live those teams. I need more of those teams.Dion Waiters led Miami with 23 points, and Josh Richardson added 18. The losing streak was the Heats longest since 2008.Its just another game, we cant get too happy about one win, Richardson said. Were glad we won, but weve got to move on to the next game.Point guard Goran Dragic returned for the Heat after missing three games with a sprained left ankle. He had 16 points in 35 minutes.Rusty a little bit, Dragic said. I didnt feel quite fast enough. The first half I struggled a little bit and then I finally got my legs under me a little bit and in the second half I felt great.Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tony Snell each had 14 points for Milwaukee. The Bucks shot 32.9 percent (28 of 85) from the field and have lost four of five.As a team we struggled on the defensive end, Bucks head coach Jason Kidd said. We couldnt guard the ball. We couldnt grab rebounds when we had to. We gave them second opportunities. On the offensive end, we just lost our patience.Richardson hit a corner 3, Whiteside blocked a layup attempt by Antetokounmpo, and Dragic hit a 3 in a flurry of big plays to give Miami an 80-69 lead with 7 minutes left.That was a big sequence for us, Richardson said. Hassan, when he gets blocks like that it energizes everybody and were running I think were a dangerous team.The Heat held on the rest of the way, with a 3 by Waiters making it 88-73 with 3:31 left.Miami outscored Milwaukee 29-11 in the fourth quarter.The Bucks entered the game leading the NBA in points in the paint, averaging 49.8 a game after leading the league a year ago, but were held to 34 and just 10 in the second half.They cover so much ground in particular G.A. and (Jabari) Parker, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. They really have a way of cutting and attacking, and catching and going into the paint. You have to have guys who are willing to compete, be physical, and do it with technique and discipline. And then when you get beat it helps to have a great eraser back there (with Whiteside).Milwaukee jumped out to a 20-6 lead, which included three impressive dunks by Parker, including taking one around-the-back on a dribble to avoid Richardson, and holding the Heat to 3-for-18 shooting.Miami quickly bounced back as Tyler Johnsons 3 gave the Heat a 30-27 lead and the teams were knotted at 48 at the break.Josh Richardson hit a pair of 3-pointers for the Heat during a 13-4 run in the third quarter to give Miami a 65-54 lead.Miami led 67-62 to start the fourth quarter.Our best basketball was in the second half, Spoelstra said.BUCKS STARS STRUGGLEAntetokounmpo and Parker, who entered the game averaging over 41 points, combined to score 25 on 10-of-35 shooting (28.6 percent).(Whiteside) did a good job of contesting shots, but I go to the basket, and I didnt get nothing the whole game, Parker said. I didnt get no calls.McGRUDER, COACHES RECEIVE RINGSMiamis Rodney McGruder and assistant coaches Dan Craig and Octavio de la Grana received their NBA D-League championship rings for winning the title last season with the Sioux Falls Skyforce, Miamis affiliate.Thats the same rock we got, thats awesome, Spoelstra said in reference to the Heats three championship rings. We all felt that we were a part of it.McGruder, a Kansas State product who went undrafted in 2013, made his NBA debut this season and recently earned his first start.UP NEXTMilwaukee will host Golden State on Saturday. The Bucks handed the Warriors one of their nine regular-season losses last year ending their 24-game winning streak to start the season.Miami begins a four-game, seven-day trip Saturday at Washington.Marco Verratti Jersey . -- There were a lot of firsts for the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday night. Romain Habran Jersey . The Dutchmans tenure got off to a poor start when referee Guido Winkmann awarded a penalty within two minutes for Niklas Starks clumsy challenge on Alexandru Maxim. http://www.parissaintgermainfcstore.com/Women-Adrien-Rabiot-Paris-Saint-Germain-Jersey/ . -- Aaron Murray threw for 408 yards and three touchdowns, ran for another score, and led No. The Haas team has been fined 5,000 Euros for an unsafe release after Esteban Gutierrezs wheel came loose during the Malaysian Grand Prix.Gutierrezs left right wheel came loose on his 39th lap of the race as he drove down to the heavy braking zone at Turn 9. The Haas driver retired from the race.After speaking to Gutierrez and the technical delegate after the race, the stewards decided to fine the American team for the incident.The stewards said in a statement: Having reviewed the audio from the car, the available data and spoken to the driver and team concerned, the Stewards were satisfied that the driver Gutierrez did not know that he was driving the car in an unsafe condition. Goncalo Guedes Paris Saint-Germain Jersey. It appears that a mechanical failure led to the wheel being able to be tightly fitted to the car while not actually attached correctly. An additional failure occurred in turn one under braking, but the wheel was still retained in an abnormal way until it appears that the failure of the rim blew the wheel past the retention devices.The stewards have also asked Haas to provide the technical delegate with a report on the failure and all the actions it will take to ensure there is no repeat in future races. 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DENVER -- Hes watched draft picks flounder and free agents falter, seen some of his best players sidelined by injuries and witnessed Peyton Mannings successor struggle to stay safe behind a spongy offensive line. Zach Strief Jersey .Yet, John Elways Denver Broncos are 7-3 at their bye.He can thank a great defense led by Super Bowl MVP Von Miller and some lucky breaks such as Carolinas missed last-second field goal in the season opener and Justin Simmons block of an extra point last week that led to the first defensive 2-point game-winner in NFL history.I think we would take it if you said at Week 10 wed be 7-3 with whats happened, Elway said. We havent played our best football yet, which I think is the encouraging thing.Another reason Elway is grinning and not grimacing is that his team is about to be astonishingly healthy when they host Kansas City (7-2) in a Sunday night showdown that begins a brutal six-week homestretch.DeMarcus Wares fractured forearm is history, and hes about to double his snap count after averaging just under 29 snaps in the three weeks hes been back in the lineup.Aqib Talibs bad lower back has quieted down and Derek Wolfes cracked right elbow is on the mend.The only sidelined star that wont be coming back anytime soon is running back C.J. Anderson , who had knee surgery but hopes to be available for the playoffs.Andersons absence looms large because the Broncos sport the youngest backfield in the NFL.Second-year quarterback Trevor Siemian threw his first NFL pass this season. Rookie tailback Devontae Booker has two TD runs, rookie fullback Andy Janovich has been hampered by a broken hand and third-year backup running back Kapri Bibbs scored his first career touchdown this month.Additionally, the tight end group has been largely invisible in the passing game with veteran Virgil Green averaging 1.8 catches per game without a single touchdown grab and second-year pro Jeff Heuerman managing just two catches.Similar to last season when he acquired Vernon Davis for the stretch run, Elway made a deadline-eve deal to toughen up his tight end group, this time getting A.J. Derby from the Patriots.Derby has two catches and tons of promise as the Broncos try to clear out defenders in the middle of the field. That would open up more chances for star wide receivers Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders plus clear some running room for the Broncos sputtering ground game.Denvers dazzling defense is just as star-studded as last years version that brought home the Lombardi Trophy. But the Broncos run defense has proven leaky without free agent departures Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan and Vance Walker, who blew out a knee in training camp.Elway exudes confidence even with Denvers offense sputtering as it did last season.We feel like we can get better on the offensive side. We have room for improvement there, Elway said. Weve figured out ways to win. Thats what you have to do. Were excited about the last six.Two of those are against Kansas City, one with Oakland and another versus rival New England in addition to trips to Tennessee and Jacksonville.I know that the schedule is a tough schedule from here on out, Elway said, but thats what happens when you win the division.Thats something Denver has done five years in a row.The AFC West is much more competitive this season, sporting three of the conferences four seven-win teams.Thats why Kubiak says its time for Siemian, 7-2 as Denvers starter, to step things up a notch.I want Trevor to play big, Kubiak said.To do that, hes going to have to stay upright.The reason he does make a lot of plays is because he will sit in there and get hit right in the mouth and make a play, Kubiak said. That is a great characteristic of a quarterback because you have to do that sometimes.But it can also send a quarterback to the sideline as it did Siemian for six quarters in October after he bruised his left shoulder.Its been a target for pass rushers ever since, and its not only his scuffling O-line thats to blame. Kubiak said hes dropping back too far in the shotgun at times.Were not going to protect you if youre doing that, Kubiak said.That was Kubiak defending his beleaguered O-line, something hes willing to do because hes as much assured in Siemians mental toughness handling criticism as he is in his physical toughness.Siemian received another cortisone injection in his bruised left shoulder this week and watched rookie Paxton Lynch run the one full practice before they all bolted on a five-day furlough.Siemian wasnt planning anything special.A lot of rest. Wont be doing much bench press this week, said Siemian, well aware hell be doing the heavy lifting soon enough.---For more NFL coverage: http://www.pro32.ap.org and http://www.twitter.com/AP-NFL---Follow Arnie Melendrez Stapleton on Twitter: http://twitter.com/arniestapleton Rickey Jackson Jersey . Jon Montgomerys gold medal in skeleton at the Whistler Sliding Centre and his subsequent auctioning off of a pitcher of beer in the village square elevated him to folk-hero status. Willie Snead Jersey . In Europe, top teams seem to be largely happy with their squads after spending nearly $1 billion in the off-season. And although English league clubs are unlikely to splash cash in January, Arsenal and Chelsea could be tempted to strengthen their squads with new strikers. http://www.saintsfootballpro.com/Saints-Sterling-Moore-Jersey/ . -- Hunter Smith scored the winner with just 12 seconds remaining in the third period as the Oshawa Generals edged the host Sarnia Sting 5-4 on Friday in Ontario Hockey League action. NFL Nation reporters assess the top storylines to watch for every team on Monday.NFC East | NFC North | NFC South | NFC West AFC East | AFC North| AFC South | AFC WestNFC EASTDallas CowboysCoach Jason Garrett has not decided whether he will?play Dak Prescott?on Thursday in the preseason finale against the Texans. With Prescott?elevated to the starters role with Tony Romo out, the Cowboys have to balance the risk of him getting hurt with the reward of the rookie getting much-needed playing time. If the starting offensive line is not going to play, it would be wise to let Prescott sit and be ready for the regular-season opener against the Giants. Jameill Showers would start if Prescott sits. The Cowboys are on the lookout for veteran backup help, but they will not be able to get a backup ready to play this week. -- Todd ArcherNew York GiantsThe Giants first-team offense with Eli Manning at quarterback has four first downs and 88 total yards in four preseason quarters. Thats not good enough. Coach Ben McAdoo knows it, and he intends to fix it beginning this week at practice. We need to jump back out there on the practice field, and we need to get better right from jump street, McAdoo said Sunday. It starts with the offensive line, which has struggled. That unit plans to concentrate on fundamentals and finishing. It will help to have starting left guard Justin Pugh (shoulder) back this week. -- Jordan RaananPhiladelphia EaglesQuarterback?Carson Wentz (rib) was able to go through a full workout prior to Saturdays game against the Colts. If everything checks out medically this week, he could very well play Thursday in the preseason finale against the Jets. Hes in a position to possibly play next week, coach Doug Pederson said. Hes still a little bit sore, so well monitor that. Well make sure hes rested here in the next couple of days. I dont want to jeopardize him by any stretch of the imagination. But at the same time, if hes ready to go, hell play next Thursday. -- Tim McManusWashington RedskinsOutside linebacker Ryan Kerrigan received good news from the MRI on his groin Saturday, but its uncertain if that means hell be able to practice Monday. Kerrigan left Fridays preseason game against Buffalo in the first quarter, needed X-rays and did not return to the game. With the starters not playing in the preseason finale, theres no need to rush Kerrigan. The Redskins have been cautious with players returning from injuries this summer, so if theres any doubt, hell return next week when regular-season practices begin. The Redskins cant afford to lose another outside linebacker, as they already lost Junior Galette for the season because of an Achilles injury. -- John KeimNFC NORTHChicago BearsCornerback Tracy Porters concussion on Saturday is the latest setback for the banged up Bears secondary. With starter Kyle Fuller (knee) on the sideline following an arthroscopic procedure, Porters situation further tests Chicagos dwindling depth at cornerback. Porter will be monitored closely, with the Bears regular-season opener less than two weeks away. The Bears also remain hopeful that tight end Zach Miller and wide receiver Eddie Royal can officially pass the NFLs concussion protocol. Miller and Royal have missed almost the entire preseason but could, in theory, return for Thursdays exhibition finale in Cleveland. There likely will be an update Monday on guard Kyle Long (shoulder), who spent the weekend rehabbing his injury and doing cardiovascular work. -- Jeff DickersonDetroit LionsEric Ebron (ankle) remains the most interesting question for the Lions on Monday. At some point, Detroit needs to see what he can do in practice heading into the regular season, and this is the last non-preparation week to do so. Although it would be stunning if he played against Buffalo on Thursday, having him practice and get reacquainted with the offense would?be helpful. The other player to watch is tight end Brandon Pettigrew. He has been on PUP recovering from a torn ACL. Its not clear if hell start the season on PUP, but he hasnt done much yet. -- Michael RothsteinGreen Bay PackersWide receiver?Jordy Nelsons preparation for the regular season should ramp up this week. Even though he wont play in Thursdays preseason finale against the Chiefs, the Pro Bowl receiver expects to take part in 11-on-11 drills for the first time since he tore his ACL more than a year ago. Its important for Jordy to get a ton of work this week with Aaron [Rodgers], and thats really the focus, Packers coach Mike McCarthy said. Nelson worked only selected individual drills when he returned to practice last week. -- Rob DemovskyMinnesota VikingsGiven the fact that their starters played a full half on Sunday, it seems unlikely that the Vikings will put many of their first-string players back on the field Thursday night against the Rams. As such, the first round of cuts for the Vikings could have plenty to do with which players they want to keep for depth on Thursday. The final week of the preseason could create opportunities at safety, for example, where both Antone Exum and Michael Griffin left with injuries on Sunday. Seventh-round pick?Jayron Kearse, who made his second interception of the preseason Sunday, could get plenty of playing time Thursday in his bid to make the roster. -- Ben GoesslingNFC SOUTHAtlanta FalconsWide?receiver Julio Jones, who suffered an ankle injury in last weeks preseason loss to the Dolphins, wasnt on the practice field Sunday. Even so, coach Dan Quinn wasnt concerned about Jones status. Quinn already said Jones should be fine for the season opener and theres no need to play him in the final preseason game against Jacksonville. He did not participate in anything today, and well see if hes able to do something [Monday], he said following practice. Meanwhile, Quinn said he expects pass-rusher Dwight Freeney?(back) to return to practice Monday, though?Freeney is not expected to play against the Jaguars. -- Vaughn McClureCarolina PanthersOn Sunday, the Panthers began putting in their game plan for the Sept. 8 opener at Denver, but they didnt have?punter Mike Scifres, who injured his right knee in Friday nights exhibition loss to New England. Scifres is scheduled to meet with a doctor. If the news isnt good, the Panthers likely will be shopping for a punter. The only other one on the roster is Kasey Redfern, who hasnt kicked in a regular-season game. -- David NewtonNew Orleans SaintsCoach Sean Payton said last month that winning preseason games would be important because the Saints needed to build confidence and a winning culture after back-to-back 7-9 seasons. Well, theyre 0-3. But Payton insisted he isnt concerned about a spiraling effect. This is a good group. Theyre working hard. The key is that we just recognize the things, he said. Weve still got more time here, but weve got to have a sense of urgency about some of these things that have shown up more than just one game. -- Mike TriplettTampa Bay BuccaneersThe Bucs are coming off a big game against the Browns. Among the positives: a punt return for a touchdown, eight sacks and just 13 points allowed on defense, quarterback?Jameis Winston threw two touchdowns, and wide receiver?Mike Evans had 115 receiving yards. Plus, the Bucs had only three penalties all game. Thats some great momentum for the starters heading into the regular season. For players fighting for roster spots, Thursdays game is crucial, and several position groups remain undecided: wide receiver, tight end, running back, offensive line, corner, safety, defensive line and linebacker. -- Jenna LaineNFC WESTArizona CardinalsA common refrain around the Cardinals about their subpar offensive performance this preseason has been that its just the preseason, and when the regular season starts Sept. 11, the offense will be fine. But two more interceptions by quarterback?Carson Palmer, two by Matt Barkley and five turnovers overall dont look good for a team that wont play its?starters again until the regular season begins. -- Josh WeinfussLos Angeles RamsPractice has become crucial for star running back Todd Gurley, who will finish the preseason having taken part in only one drive. Gurley sat out the third preseason game Saturday and will also sit out the fourth one on Thursday. When he takes the field for the Sept. 12 opener against the 49ers on Monday Night Football, Gurley will have gone 23 days without seeing game speed. The Rams need him to simulate that as best as possible during practice -- without getting hurt and probably without even getting tackleed. Michael Thomas Jersey. -- Alden GonzalezSan Francisco 49ersQuarterback Colin Kaepernick spoke to the media on Sunday and said he will continue to sit during the national anthem until there is change when it comes to racial oppression in the United States. Asked what that would look like, Kaepernick indicated that he wasnt sure, but hed know it when he sees it. Thats a tough question because theres a lot of things that need to change, a lot of different issues that need to be addressed, he said. Thats something that its really hard to lock down one specific thing that needs to change currently. -- Nick WagonerSeattle SeahawksThird-round pick C.J. Prosise (hamstring) looked the part in his first preseason action, as he rushed four times for 23 yards against the Cowboys. He had a couple nice runs, and were just going to keep going, coach Pete Carroll said. This is a big week for him. Its just a big week to have him in practice again, but the game will be important. Hell play quite a bit this game. The Seahawks are hoping Prosise can emerge as their third-down back for the regular season. -- Sheil KapadiaAFC EASTBuffalo BillsThe Bills added a fourth quarterback to their 90-man roster Sunday, when they signed?Austin Trainor. Why the late addition? The Bills need an extra arm to get through Thursdays preseason finale in Detroit. The team plans to sit Tyrod Taylor and the rest of its starters, and rookie Cardale Jones is still nursing a sore shoulder. -- Mike RodakMiami DolphinsThis is an important week for Dolphins cornerback?Xavien Howard (knee) and running back?Kenyan Drake (hamstring). After they missed most of training camp, Miamis rookie second- and third-round picks will make their debuts in Thursdays preseason finale against the Titans. The next two days of practice are important to prepare for this game. -- James WalkerNew England PatriotsWill veteran defensive tackle Terrance Knighton still have a job at the end of the day? Signed in the offseason to a one-year contract with a maximum value of $4 million, Knighton didnt play a single defensive snap in the teams third preseason game Friday at Carolina. He said after the game that he was leaving Bank of America Stadium with an uncertain feeling about his future with the team. -- Mike ReissNew York JetsThe Jets, who trimmed their roster to 78 on Sunday, still have three moves to make before Tuesday. They have six outside linebackers on the roster, with veteran Trevor Reilly squarely on the bubble. His status could be impacted by Josh Martin, who is on crutches after an ankle injury. Theres a chance rookie Jordan Jenkins (calf) could return this week. -- Rich CiminiAFC NORTHBaltimore RavensQuarterback?Joe Flacco didnt mince words after Benjamin Watson tore his Achilles on Saturday. Thats going to be really tough on us, Flacco said. That leaves the Ravens with one healthy, experienced tight end:?Crockett Gillmore. Baltimore will be fine at tight end as long as Dennis Pitta (fractured finger) and Maxx Williams (undisclosed injury) can stay healthy, but thats a big question mark. Pitta hasnt played in a game since September 2014, and Williams dealt with knee and ankle injuries as well as a concussion as a rookie last season. -- Jamison HensleyCincinnati BengalsThe Bengals came out of Sunday nights game against the Jaguars with injuries to wide receiver A.J. Green (knee), cornerback Adam Jones (calf) and running back Cedric Peerman (arm). Thats not a good sign with the regular season approaching. They will play again Thursday against the Colts, with most of the starters unlikely to see a snap. -- Katherine TerrellCleveland BrownsCornerback Justin Gilberts effort to make the roster will be slowed. The top-10 pick in the 2014 draft?was diagnosed with a concussion Friday in Tampa and is in the leagues protocol. -- Pat McManamonPittsburgh SteelersTwo key linemen are setting a toughness tone for the Steelers. Defensive end Cam Heyward (high ankle sprain) and offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert (hyperextended elbow) both have significant injuries but are saying theres no way they miss Week 1 at Washington. The Steelers dealt with injuries all of last season, and Gilbert and Heyward are well-respected veterans who wont take no for an answer. No way Im missing that first game, Gilbert said. Dont expect these two to practice in the next two weeks, but they promise to rehab vigorously. -- Jeremy FowlerAFC SOUTHHouston TexansAlthough quarterback?Brock Osweiler and the Texans offense had a great day against the Cardinals, the defense struggled in several areas. Without J.J. Watt, the defensive line got pushed around, and the defense as a whole missed several tackles. The Texans also struggled with tackling in the first preseason game against the 49ers, but they improved last week against the Saints. As it was after the preseason opener, expect tackling to be a focus during practice this week ahead of the teams final preseason game. -- Sarah BarshopIndianapolis ColtsRunning back Stevan Ridley will have his first practice with the Colts on Monday after he signed with the team over the weekend. The Colts are looking for solid backup behind starter Frank Gore. The backups behind Gore have combined to rush for only 91 yards on 49 carries in three preseason games. Ridley has rushed for 1,203 yards total in the past three seasons after rushing for 1,263 yards in his second season with the Patriots. -- Mike WellsJacksonville JaguarsThe Jaguars really felt the loss of nose tackle Roy Miller against the Bengals on Sunday. He suffered a quad injury last week and likely wont play in the preseason finale. The Bengals ran for 49 yards in the first quarter against the Jaguars first-team defense with Abry Jones and Richard Ash playing in his place. Miller is the key to the Jaguars rush defense. -- Mike DiRoccoTennessee TitansThe Titans will open the season with Quinton Spain as their left guard. The open spot never really got competitive, and Spain and the starting line were very solid against the Raiders in the third preseason game. Coach Mike Mularkey said he wants to see Spain progress with experience but was pleased with the way the former undrafted free agent?came back from an average effort in Week 2. -- Paul KuharskyAFC WESTDenver BroncosAt every opportunity, coach Gary Kubiak has tried to tell folks that he has more decisions to make than the one at quarterback. Although the collective response outside the team might seem like, yeah, whatever, to Kubiak, he is right. As roster cuts come, the Broncos have tough decisions at running back, wide receiver and particularly at linebacker where Dekoda Watson, with 2.5 sacks against the Rams on Saturday, and Zaire Anderson, who had two forced fumbles against the San Francisco 49ers last week, made cases to make the roster. Watson leads the team in sacks in the preseason?with 4.0. -- Jeff LegwoldKansas City ChiefsThe challenge for the Chiefs now that safety Eric Berry has signed and will join them at practice on Monday is to prepare him for the regular season. That preparation probably wont include any playing time in Thursdays final preseason game against the Packers. Otherwise, the Chiefs wont waste any time. Hell be in the starting lineup in practice. Well get him back in there and get him into football shape now, coach Andy Reid said. Hes in great shape. Its just [a matter of] getting him back into football shape. -- Adam TeicherOakland RaidersRaiders coach Jack Del Rio is still a linebacker at heart, so yeah, he felt a bit shaken at the lack of quality tackling by his team against the Titans on Saturday. I take it real personal, he said. I dont know what to tell you. I dont have a good alibi -- it bothers me. You cant be a great defense doing that ... its got to be a whole hell of a lot better than what I saw out there tonight. -- Paul GutierrezSan Diego ChargersThe Chargers lost a playmaker on offense, and the teams top returner when Branden Oliver went down with an Achilles tendon tear. Coach Mike McCoy confirmed after the game that Oliver was done for the year. Its a tough blow for Oliver, who finished last year on the injured reserve with turf toe. You see what he went through to get back and its a shame, McCoy said about Oliver. The Chargers have backups such as?Dreamius Smith or Kenneth Farrow?on the roster who could help fill the void left by Olivers absence, but they could also add a player after final roster cuts. -- Eric D. Williams Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
Queensland captain Cameron Smith says the Maroons are aiming for a 3-0 whitewash to ensure NSW do not carry self belief into next years State of Origin series. Taurean Prince Hawks Jersey .Queensland can clinch only their fifth clean sweep in Wednesday nights Origin III at ANZ Stadium after sealing their 10th series win in 11 years.We cant afford not to put in a good performance because that can give them a bit of self belief and momentum into next series, Smith said. Paul Millsap Hawks Jersey .Y. -- Jayna Hefford scored the winning goal Friday as Canada survived a scare with a 4-3 win over Sweden at the Four Nations womens hockey tournament. Cheap Atlanta Hawks Jerseys . -- Ryan Getzlaf grabbed the three pucks wrapped in tape and held them up to his chest in the Anaheim Ducks dressing room for a celebration nine seasons in the making. http://www.hawksteamofficial.com/dikembe-mutombo-hawks-jersey/ .Y. -- Buffalo Bills coach Doug Marrone has drawn on his Syracuse connections once again by hiring Rob Moore to take over as receivers coach. ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- Michigan?quarterback Wilton Speight is not expected to play for the Wolverines this Saturday, multiples sources have confirmed to ESPN.Speight appeared to injure his non-throwing shoulder in this past weekends loss to Iowa. According to multiple reports, the redshirt sophomore quarterback broke his collarbone.?Coach Jim Harbaugh said Monday afternoon that Speight could be a game-time decision for No. 3 Michigans game against Indiana.Harbaugh did say he expects backup quarterbacks John OKorn and Shane Morris to take the majority of the teams snaps during the first couple days of practice this week.Later Monday, in his weekly radio show appearance, Harbaugh denied reports that Speights injury would end his season. He reiterated that he expects the quarterback to miss at least some practice time this week.The doctors will give the input on that, Harbaugh said. The report youre referring to -- that hes out for the season -- I have not heard that from the doctors. Ersan Ilyasova Jersey. So thats incorrect.OKorn has played in more than half Michigans games in a backup role so far this season. He has completed 13 of his 18 passes for 114 yards and two touchdowns in relief of Speight. The redshirt junior transferred to Michigan after two years at Houston. He started for the Cougars as a freshman and part of his sophomore season.Teammates said Monday that OKorn might use his legs a bit more frequently than the 6-foot-6 Speight, but other than that, there arent many differences between the two quarterbacks and how they like to operate an offense.Speight started the first 10 games of the season for Michigan and threw for 2,156 yards and 15 touchdowns. He favored his left side during the fourth quarter at Iowa and finished the game with 103 passing yards, his second-lowest total of the season. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys China Cheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
BRUSSELS -- The Belgian league match between bitter rivals Charleroi and Standard Liege has been abandoned after fans set off fireworks and threw objects onto the pitch. Cameron Brate Jersey .Referee Serge Gumienny ended the match in the 81st minute following a third incident with fans. Standard Liege was leading 3-1 at Charleroi.The match was also marred by hooliganism last season.On Sunday, Gumienny had already interrupted the match after visiting Standard Liege fans twice set off flares and threw coins, lighters and bottles onto the pitch. When Charleroi fans did likewise late in the game, the referee whistled for the end.Gumienny said he could no longer guarantee the security of the players.League authorities will now decide what happens with the result. Chris Godwin Jersey . Halladay signed a one-day contract with the Toronto Blue Jays on Monday that allowed the veteran right-hander to retire as a member of team with which he broke into the majors and spent the bulk of his distinguished 16-year career. Nick Folk Jersey . Scott Kazmir allowed four hits in seven shutout innings, Michael Brantley hit a two-run homer in a three-run first inning and the Indians maintained their hold on an AL wild-card spot with a 4-1 win over the Houston Astros on Saturday night. http://www.buccaneersfootballpro.com/Buccaneers-Justin-Evans-Jersey/ .C. -- Charlotte Bobcats coach Steve Clifford said after all of these years in the NBA hes still amazed at some of the things LeBron James does. Super middleweight Eduard Gutknecht, who remains in a coma two weeks after suffering a brain injury in a loss to George Groves, is being moved from a London hospital to Germany, promoter Wiking-Boxteam said Saturday.The entire Wiking-Boxteam fights and hopes for Eddy, the company said in a statement on Saturday. The condition of Eddy is currently stable. He is in a coma but is no longer in the acute ICU. His family is always at his side in the hospital. Eddy is currently being moved to Germany. Our thoughts are with him and wish him a full recovery.On Nov. 18, the 34-year-old Gutknecht (30-5-1, 13 KOs), a native of Kazakhstan based in Germany, squared off with longtime 168-pound contender Groves at the SSE Wembley Arena in London. Groves, who has lost three world title fights, won a near-shutout decision -- 119-109 on all three scorecards -- to put himself in position for another possible world title fight in 2017.Shortly after the fight, Gutknecht, who took a lot of punishment, collapsed in his dressing room and was rushed to the hospital, where he underwent surgery to relieve swelling on his brain.Wiking-Boxteam said doctors said Gutknechts organs are working normally.We have to be patient. Forecasts and assumptions can go in all directions, the statement said. It is very difficult for the family with this situation. TThe entire Wiking-Boxteam suffers with Eddy and is affected. Joe Hawley Jersey. But we also know that we are talking about boxing and like all high-performance sports, in addition to the joy of competition and the ceremony at the victory, unfortunately, always the risk of injury is present.Eddy has his dream of boxing against George Groves and again to reach for the world champion crown. Now he has to wake up [and have] a full recovery, so he can be there for his family again. Eddy you can do it! Eddy youre strong!Like Groves, Gutknecht was on the hunt for another world title opportunity. He had lost decisions in two previous attempts, to Robert Stieglitz in 2010 and Juergen Braehmer in March.Groves said he has not made any comments about the fight or Gutknechts situation out of respect for Eduard and his familys privacy.But Groves said his team has set up a fund to help raise money to go toward Gutknechts medical expenses. Groves also said his team planned to organize an auction of celebrity items with whatever money it raises going to Gutknechts family.Hes a husband and a father and the money raised will go towards helping his family be with him at this difficult time, Groves said in a statement. Cheap NFL Jerseys Cheap NFL Jerseys China Cheap Jerseys From China Cheap NFL Jerseys Authentic Wholesale Jerseys ChinaCheap NFL Jerseys China NFL Cheap Jerseys ' ' '
ATLANTA -- Carlos Santana hit a tie-breaking single in Clevelands three-run ninth inning, Corey Kluber allowed only three hits in eight innings and the Indians beat the Atlanta Braves 5-3 on Tuesday night for their 11th straight win. Zach Zenner Jersey .The winning streak is Clevelands longest in 34 years.Arodys Vizcaino (1-3) walked Tyler Naquin to open the ninth and then walked Juan Uribe on four pitches. With pinch-runner Rajai Davis at first base, pinch-hitter Michael Martinez struck out.Vizcaino was in danger of issuing another walk when Santana lined a 3-1 pitch to right field, driving in Naquin from second base.Braves shortstop Erick Aybar mishandled Francisco Lindors grounder for an error, allowing Davis to score. Jose Ramirez added a run-scoring single up the middle.Kluber (8-7), coming off a shutout of Tampa Bay, didnt allow a hit through five innings. The right-hander allowed two runs on three hits and one walk with seven strikeouts. T.J. Jones Jersey . On Mar. 16, coming off a "fight of the year" performance at UFC 154 the previous November, St-Pierre faced Nick Diaz at UFC 158 in what would be his eighth defence of the welterweight title. Using his superior athleticism, St-Pierre cruised to a five round, unanimous decision victory setting up a much-anticipated title defence against number one contender Johny Hendricks. Marvin Jones Jr Jersey . Tomas Berdych and Radek Stepanek defeated Nenad Zimonjic and Ilija Bozoljac 6-2, 6-4, 7-6 (4) on the indoor hard-court at Belgrade Arena. The victory improved the Czech pairs impressive cup doubles record to 14-1. http://www.lionsfootballpro.com/Customized/ . Barcelonas entertaining victory ensured the defending Spanish champions retained their share of the league lead with Atletico Madrid two rounds ahead of their meeting in the capital. Real Madrid needed a late goal by substitute Jese Rodriguez to earn a 3-2 victory at Valencia to stay in third place and three points behind its title rivals. Needing yet another mens basketball coach, Tennessee officials turned to the one person they thought would be perfect to take over the Volunteers program.Pat Summitt said no.She wasnt interested in the job in 1994 after Wade Houston was forced out, and she turned it down again when Jerry Green quit in March 2001. A Tennessee governor once joked he wouldnt have his job if Summitt ever wanted to run her home state.Breaking the glass ceiling in the mens game, political office, that wasnt Summitts motivation. She had the only job she ever really wanted.I want to keep doing the right things for women all the time, Summitt said in June 2011 after being inducted into her fifth Hall of Fame.Summitt died Tuesday morning at age 64.The woman who grew up playing basketball in a Tennessee barn loft against her brothers, and started coaching only a couple years after Title IX was invoked, spent her life working to make womens basketball the equal of the mens game. In the process, Patricia Sue Head Summitt stood amongst the best coaches in any sport when she retired in April 2012 with more victories (1,098) than any other NCAA coach and second only to John Wooden with eight national championships.Summitt used the sport and her demand for excellence to empower women and help them believe they can achieve anything, taking no backseat to anyone.When I moved to Tennessee in 1976, girls played six-on-six, half-court basketball designed to protect them from getting hurt. Summitt, who took her Lady Vols to four AIAW Final Fours, refused to recruit Tennessee players. Tennessee high schools switched to five-on-five rules starting with the 1979-80 season.The NCAA finally started running a national postseason tournament for the women in 1982. At the time, Summitt was known for having corn-fed chicks on her roster, big and strong but not talented enough to win national titles. After she won her first national title in 1987 in her eighth Final Four either in the AIAW or NCAA, she said, Well, the monkeys off my back.Back then only a student ID was needed to attend a womens game. And there was no demand for the results of those games. After graduating from Tennessee, I helped the sports writers by bringing notes from an NCAA Tournament game back to the office for someone else to write up. There was no urgency since there was no reader demand.So Summitt worked to make it impossible to ignore her team or the womens game.By January 1993, so many people wanted to watch then-No. 2 Tennessee visit top-ranked Vanderbilt that the contest became the first Southeastern Conference womens game to sell out in advance. With children under 6 allowed in free, having a ticket didnt guarantee getting through the door; at least 1,000 were turned away at the door -- including Vanderbilts chancellor.The Lady Vols won 73-68, a game I covered in my first year as a sports writer for The Associated Press in Nashville.This was the biggest game in womens basketball, and thats what Ive been waiting 19 years to see, Summitt said. Im glad I stayed around to see it.Summitt scheduled opponentss anywhere and everywhere, barnstorming the country to introduce people to womens basketball. Ricky Wagner Jersey. Tennessee played Arizona State in 2000 in the first womens outdoor game played at then-Bank One Ballpark, drew the largest crowd ever to a regional championship in March 1998 when 14,848 packed Memorial Gym in Nashville with Tennessee trying to finish off the NCAAs first three-peat and helped Louisville set a Big East record christening the KFC Yum! Center in 2010.The Lady Vols became must-see TV in the sport as Summitt put the womens game on the national stage with six national titles in the span of 12 years.I remember when I got real up-close look at what drove Summitt.Assigned to cover Summitt as part of APs annual college basketball preview package in the fall of 1998, I spent nearly 30 minutes with the coach in her office.Door closed, Summitt gave a glimpse of that famous stay-away stare. With undivided attention now on me, she wanted to know if I had talked with her mother, Hazel, for the story. She then showed me the engaging side, laughing when asked about a stretch of play during the 1998 title game that resembled the Showtime Lakers, beaming while reflecting on how well her Lady Vols showed women could play the game.The Lady Vols lost 69-63 to Duke that season in the East Regional. The next day I left a message at Summitts house and late that afternoon, she called back to talk about more life lessons and basketball.Its a game, and winning and losing both can be great ways to teach kids how to get ready for the real world, said Summitt, who had to stop the interview because her mother had given son, Tyler, a gift. She explained he would have to save some of that cash before buying something for himself. Then she resumed the conversation about the game.That was Pat Summitt: Hoops and family.She held everyone to the exacting standards she learned from her father cutting tobacco and helping bale hay on the family farm. Tennessee and Connecticut was the biggest draw in womens basketball with Geno Auriemma and his Huskies handing Summitt her lone title game loss in 1995. But Summitt canceled the series in 2007 and refused to say why other than, Geno knows.Summitt ended a nine-year championship drought with her seventh national title in 2007 followed by the eighth in 2008. She became the first NCAA coach to win 1,000 games Feb. 5, 2009, and received a new contract that boosted her annual salary to $1.4 million -- far removed from the $8,900 of her first season.She never got to the 40th season in that contract, her career cruelly and prematurely ended by early onset dementia, Alzheimers type. She finished 1,098-208 with 18 Final Fours, at the time tying the men of UCLA and North Carolina for the most by any college basketball program.Not that numbers define Summitt, who once said, Records are made to be broken.Yes, all marks fade, but no one will eclipse Summitts contributions to womens basketball. 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