"ZZ Top | Billy Gibbons on the band's next album
Video: Billy Gibbons on the band's next album | Rolling Stone
"ZZ Top | Billy Gibbons on the band's next album
DENVER BRONCOS: Tim Tebow Passes His Way To A Comeback Victory
DENVER BRONCOS: Tim Tebow Passes His Way To A Comeback Victory:
"Tim Tebow staged another crazy comeback yesterday against the Vikings.
But that's not news.
The real takeaway is this: Tebow actually threw the ball like a real, live quarterback.
Who knew he could do that?
For the first time all year, he threw for more than 200 yards passing (202).
He was able to scramble out of pressure and consistently stretch the field vertically, which we'd yet to see.
His performance comes with a pair of caveats:
His receivers were open by, like, 15 yards on almost all of his completions down field.
The Broncos were basically gifted the win when Christian Ponder threw a terrible interception deep in his own territory with a minute left.
But overall it was undoubtedly Tebow's best performance as a passer since he became the starter.
And now, ridiculously, the Broncos are in the driver's seat in the AFC West with four games to play.
Here's his best highlight from yesterday:"
But that's not news.
The real takeaway is this: Tebow actually threw the ball like a real, live quarterback.
Who knew he could do that?
For the first time all year, he threw for more than 200 yards passing (202).
He was able to scramble out of pressure and consistently stretch the field vertically, which we'd yet to see.
His performance comes with a pair of caveats:
His receivers were open by, like, 15 yards on almost all of his completions down field.
The Broncos were basically gifted the win when Christian Ponder threw a terrible interception deep in his own territory with a minute left.
But overall it was undoubtedly Tebow's best performance as a passer since he became the starter.
And now, ridiculously, the Broncos are in the driver's seat in the AFC West with four games to play.
Here's his best highlight from yesterday:"
LSU-Alabama Most Bet Game Ever
"It's a monster weekend. This game is going to write more money than any college game has written this year for sure. And maybe, possibly, of all time," he said.
Avello called the game the "Super Bowl of college football."
The line right now is either Alabama -4.5 or -5.
75% of bets are on LSU, so we'll see if the line moves as even more everyday bettors place wagers tomorrow morning. It's going to be huge for Vegas."
Roger Waters tour to reconstruct 'The Wall' in 2012 | TicketNews
Roger Waters tour to reconstruct 'The Wall' in 2012:"Roger Waters is relaunching The Wall Live Tour in North America next year. And, as expected, the summer 2012 trek includes at least one previously speculated outdoor staging.
The Wall Live Tour launches its next left on May 1 at the Toyota Center in Houston, TX. Nearly 40 concerts are confirmed on the itinerary, which concludes with a July 14 performance at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA.
Waters will also perform on May 7 at Pepsi Center in Denver, CO; June 23 at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON; and July 12 at Verizon Center in Washington, DC. But the most highly publicized concert on the calendar may be Waters' June 8 stop at Wrigley Field in Chicago, IL.
For some time, reports had been swirling in the Windy City about a potential stop at the famed ballpark, which is home to the Chicago Cubs.
In a September interview with Rolling Stone, Waters named the venue as one of several where he tested a new outdoor set-up for his staging of Pink Floyd's "The Wall." And the other venues name-dropped by Waters in that report? Fenway Park and Yankee Stadium — both located in cities (Boston and New York City) where venue announcements are still forthcoming for the tour.
In those markets where all details are confirmed, the first public onsales are slated to begin November 14. According to LiveNation.com listings, the average price range is $55 to $200 (before fees), though prices go as low as $29 and as high as $250 in select markets.
Prices are similar to those for Waters' first North American tour for The Wall Live, which he announced in April 2010 and launched in September 2010.
Demand was high on the secondary market for tickets to see The Wall Live 2010. Sales were strong enough to place Waters on TicketNews' exclusive Top Events rankings from April through December 2010."
Roger Waters – The Wall Live itinerary:
(Dates are subject to change.)
'via Blog this(Dates are subject to change.)
Toyota Center - TX
Houston, TX
May 01, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Frank Erwin Center
Austin, TX
May 03, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Bank Of Oklahoma Center
Tulsa, OK
May 05, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Pepsi Center
Denver, CO
May 07, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
AT&T Park
San Francisco, CA
May 11, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Valley View Casino Center (Formerly San Diego Sports Arena)
San Diego, CA
May 13, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
US Airways Center
Phoenix, AZ
May 15, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
Los Angeles, CA
May 19, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Rose Garden
Portland, OR
May 22, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Key Arena
Seattle, WA
May 24, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Xcel Energy Center
Saint Paul, MN
Jun 03, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Joe Louis Arena
Detroit, MI
Jan 05, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Van Andel Arena
Grand Rapids, MI
Jun 06, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Wrigley Field
Chicago, IL
Jun 08, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
KFC Yum! Center
Louisville, KY
Jun 10, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Conseco Fieldhouse
Indianapolis, IN
Jun 11, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Philips Arena
Atlanta, GA
Jun 13, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Bank Atlantic Center
Sunrise, FL
Jun 15, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Amway Center
Orlando, FL
Jun 16, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Bridgestone Arena (Formerly Sommet Center)
Nashville, TN
Jun 19, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
First Niagara Center (formerly HSBC Arena)
Buffalo, NY
Jun 21, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Rogers Centre
Toronto, ON
Jun 23, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Scotiabank Place (formerly Corel Centre)
Kanata, ON
Jun 25, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Centre Bell
Montreal, QC
Jun 26, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Times Union Center (formerly Pepsi Arena)
Albany, NY
Jun 28, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
XL Center - (Formerly Hartford Civic Center)
Hartford, CT
Jun 29, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Consol Energy Center
Pittsburgh, PA
Jul 03, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
RBC Center
Raleigh, NC
Jul 09, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Time Warner Cable Arena (formerly Charlotte Bobcats Arena)
Charlotte, NC
Jul 10, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Verizon Center - DC
Washington, DC
Jul 12, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Consol Energy Center
Pittsburgh, PA
Jul 03, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
RBC Center
Raleigh, NC
Jul 09, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Time Warner Cable Arena (formerly Charlotte Bobcats Arena)
Charlotte, NC
Jul 10, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
Roger Waters
Verizon Center - DC
Washington, DC
Jul 12, 2012
TBA
View Tickets
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Saints Set Modern NFL Points Record
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS: Saints Set Modern NFL Points Record:"The New Orleans Saints hung 62 points on the Indianapolis Colts last night — tying the NFL record for most points in a game since the AFL merger in 1970.
Drew Brees had a particularly ridiculous stat line in the 62-7 win. He was 31/35 for 325 yards and five touchdowns.
New Orleans also logged 236 rushing yards, and 557 total yards of offense in the game.
So what does it mean? In reality, not too much.
We all knew the Saints had an explosive offense that could put up a crooked number if it was hitting on all cylinders.
In addition, they were playing against the Colts — a win-less team that's given up at least 23 points in every game they've played.
So while the final score is eye-popping and the stats are nuts, the game didn't change much.
The Colts stink. And the Saints are an explosive team that can kill bad opponents but have trouble with good ones."
Drinking At NFL Games Is An Expensive Habit
"Recently we took a look at how much beer costs at Major League Baseball games. And in retrospect, drinking at a baseball game is cheap, at least when compared to NFL games.
The average cost of a small draft beer at NFL games is $7.13. That is 22.7 percent more than the average cost at baseball games ($5.81).
The most expensive beers in the NFL can be found in St. Louis, where the Rams charge their fans a whopping $9.00 per beer. In total, 13 NFL teams charge more than $7.25 for a beer, which is the most expensive beer in MLB (Boston Red Sox). The Cleveland Browns have the cheapest beers ($5.00).
Here is a look at how much a small draft beer costs at each ballpark in the NFL...
* Price based on a "small draft beer""
"Recently we took a look at how much beer costs at Major League Baseball games. And in retrospect, drinking at a baseball game is cheap, at least when compared to NFL games.
The average cost of a small draft beer at NFL games is $7.13. That is 22.7 percent more than the average cost at baseball games ($5.81).
The most expensive beers in the NFL can be found in St. Louis, where the Rams charge their fans a whopping $9.00 per beer. In total, 13 NFL teams charge more than $7.25 for a beer, which is the most expensive beer in MLB (Boston Red Sox). The Cleveland Browns have the cheapest beers ($5.00).
Here is a look at how much a small draft beer costs at each ballpark in the NFL...
* Price based on a "small draft beer""
NFL Players Say Steelers' Star Linebacker Is The Meanest Player In The League
"In today’s less-than-surprising NFL news – James Harrison is mean.
But did you know he is the league’s meanest player? That’s what his NFL contemporaries say, according to a Sports Illustrated poll.
Harrison is known for his vicious hits and fierce personality. He was the NFL’s most fined player last season, incurring over $100,000 in fines for his hard, and sometimes late, hits.
He received 35% of the votes cast by 287 polled players.
Players voted Harrison’s fellow AFC South linebacker, Ray Lewis, second with 15% of the vote. And it’s taken the Lions Ndamukong Suh less than two seasons to become recognized as the league’s third meanest player. "
'via Blog this'
Perfect Free Kick
Brazillian soccer player Ronaldinho continued his resurgence by scoring a perfectly placed free kick in a friendly game against Mexico last night.
The goal tied up the game, and Brazil went on to win 2-1 with a Marcelo goal five minutes later.
Here's the video (with an awesomely long "GOLLLLLAAAAZOOO" from the announcer):
The goal tied up the game, and Brazil went on to win 2-1 with a Marcelo goal five minutes later.
Here's the video (with an awesomely long "GOLLLLLAAAAZOOO" from the announcer):
Las Vegas Sports Books Will Loss Money If Detroit Lions Win Super Bowl
“It wouldn’t be pretty,” MGM Mirage sportsbook manager Jeff Stoneback told Covers.com today. “That is our largest loser.”
The Lions were 75-1 underdogs to win it all around of the time of last year's Super Bowl. Even though their odds shrunk to around 30-1 before the season, Vegas is still on the hook for a number of long-odds bets.
“I’m sure there are people out there who have $30,000 and $40,000 tickets if not $50,000 tickets," Stoneback told Covers.
Detroit's odds currently sit a 6-1 after their 4-0 start.
They've also beat the spread in 11 of their past 12 games."'via Blog this'
An 11-Year-Old Is So Good At Football He's Only Allowed To Score Three Touchdowns A Game
An 11-Year-Old Is So Good At Football He's Only Allowed To Score Three Touchdowns A Game:
"Demias Jimerson is a sixth grader at Wilson Intermediate School in Arkansas and he is so good at football he's only allowed to score three touchdowns a game (via SportsGrid).
Jimerson is only the second student in school history who has to follow the Madre Hill Rule. The first was former football star Madre Hill, who the rule was named for.
Jimerson basically scores every time he touches the ball. We're sure college football coaches already have their eyes on him.
Watch Jimerson talk about how he's ok with the rule here:"
"Demias Jimerson is a sixth grader at Wilson Intermediate School in Arkansas and he is so good at football he's only allowed to score three touchdowns a game (via SportsGrid).
Jimerson is only the second student in school history who has to follow the Madre Hill Rule. The first was former football star Madre Hill, who the rule was named for.
Jimerson basically scores every time he touches the ball. We're sure college football coaches already have their eyes on him.
Watch Jimerson talk about how he's ok with the rule here:"
Kobe Bryant's 'Dream' Of Playing In Italy May Soon Be A Reality
Kobe Bryant's 'Dream' Of Playing In Italy May Soon Be A Reality: "Finishing his career with more championships than Shaq isn’t Kobe Bryant’s only basketball dream, apparently.
The Lakers guard says it’s “very possible” he’ll play in Italy during the NBA lockout.
"It would be a dream for me,” Kobe said, according to Gazzetta. “There’s an opportunity that we’ve been discussing over the last few days. It’s very possible and that’s good news for me.”
Virtus Bologna has offered Kobe several salary packages for his services. The latest centers on a $2.5 million contract for 10 games over 40 days. The deal would ensure Bryant’s immediate NBA return if and when the lockout ends.
Kobe spent several years of his childhood in Italy while his father, Joe Bryant, played on various Italian teams.
“Italy is my home,” he said. “It’s where my dream of playing in the NBA started.”
If Kobe indeed signs with Virtus, he could form an all-star backcourt with Manu Ginobili, who has also been contacted by the team."
'via Blog this'
The New Jersey Nets Are Going To Brooklyn
"As of Monday morning, hip hop superstar and part-owner of the New Jersey Nets, Jay-Z, announced to the basketball world during a press conference that when his team relocates to Brooklyn for the 2012-2013 season and on, the organization will officially be called the Brooklyn Nets.
Jay-Z spoke more on the name change for the team during an interview on Good Day New York and he also mentioned the fact that he will be christening the Barclays Center with a set of concerts. The Brooklyn area’s economic landscape already looks to be on the rise even with those two announcements alone.
What will be interesting to watch throughout this whole process is what kind of talent the Nets will be able to lure ahead of the scheduled move. The franchise courted both LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony, but failed to capture either, ultimately opting to obtain the services of All-Star point guard, Deron Williams. While Williams is a great player in his own right, the Nets will need another superstar or two if they hope to realistically compete with the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls in the East.
Although Jay-Z is ecstatic about the move to Brooklyn and the prospect of what it will all mean, first thing is first, the NBA lockout must end. While this is an absolute worst-case scenario, it is not out of the realm of possibility that the work-stoppage could even spill over into the what would be the Nets’ first season at Barclays Center in 2012. It all really depends on what kind of compromise the players and owners are able to reach regarding the salary cap and such.
In either case, NBA fans in Brooklyn do have a lot to be excited about looking ahead towards the day when they will at last, officially have a team to call their own and root on in one of the biggest sports and media markets in the world."
Jay-Z, Coldplay open iHeartRadio concert in Vegas | Pollstar - The Concert Hotwire
Jay-Z, Coldplay open iHeartRadio concert in Vegas | Pollstar - The Concert Hotwire:
"Jay-Z rapped about his beef with corporate radio in the monster jam “99 Problems,” noting that stations won’t play his hits if he doesn’t do their shows. But on Friday, he played savior to radio station giant Clear Channel, headlining a two-night concert billed as the largest in radio history and a major step toward keeping the industry alive in the dot-com era.
The rapper bounced across a stage outfitted with two drum sets and two guitarists as he spit out his biggest hits and swung the two oversized gold chains hanging from his neck. It was the final performance of a night that saw confetti bombs dust the shoulders of pop sensations Kelly Clarkson, The Black Eyed Peas,Bruno Mars and Carrie Underwood. The spectacle was scheduled to continue Saturday night, with headliners Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Sting and Steven Tyler.
The star-studded lineup usually reserved for charity concerts was a marketing blitz that drew thousands to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and was broadcast to more than 10 million radio listeners across the country. Its intended beneficiary was iHeartRadio, Clear Channel’s revamped free personalized music website that allows users to create custom radio stations and is meant to compete with the web’s most popular online music services, especially Pandora.
“This is our coming out party,” said Bob Pittman, chairman of media and entertainment platforms for Clear Channel Communications Inc. “What makes the festival so unusual is every act is a headliner.”
The concert hosted by Ryan Seacrest began with the Black Eyed Peas taking the stage in a fit of confetti and pyrotechnics. Fergie, the pop group’s only female member, snaked across the stage in black shorts that revealed her butt cheeks.
Concertgoers also waved their glowing cellphones in the air for Alicia Keys, Coldplayand rock band Jane’s Addiction during the nearly five-hour concert. In a nod to Las Vegas’ showgirl tradition, two feather-frocked, barely clad dancers frolicked across the stage as Jane’s Addiction performed.
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and Mars each paid tribute to late British soul diva Amy Winehouse, with Mars performing Winehouse’s “Valerie” as a brass quartet waved their horns in unison, and Martin urging the packed arena to join him in a mournful chorus of her prophetic hit “Rehab.”
Fireworks later dusted the stage as Martin twirled his arms, curved his hips and then rolled over backward in a flurry of dance. A psychedelic piano joined him on stage.
Keys and Jay-Z performed the only duet of the night, a sequin-drenched performance of their hit “Empire State of Mind.” Jay-Z thanked the crowd for singing along.
“I know I am on the West Coast,” he said.
The mix of country, rock, rap, pop and R&B was a deliberate nod to the broad array of music available on iHeartRadio, Pittman said. The revamped website allows listeners to hear the feeds of more than 800 stations or create individualized channels that stream music along specific genres. Listeners can access 400,000 artists and 11 million tracks, millions more than Pandora.
Pandora launched in 2005, offering revolutionary computer formulas that create personalized song lists based on each users’ tastes. It has grown to more than 30 million listeners each month.
Clear Channel is not about to cede its web listeners to another company. When it announced the iHeartRadio revamp, it had about 27 million listeners per month, just short of Pandora’s reach. This month, iHeartRadio climbed to 30 million listeners each month, Pittman said. In all, Clear Channel reaches 237 million monthly listeners over traditional radio airwaves, ensuring that the company will be able to promote the site to millions of potential consumers.
Clear Channel will also turn to the music site to identify emerging artists ready for traditional radio and get user feedback.
“It’s a way for us to discover more artists,” Pittman said.
The beta site launched Sept. 8. This weekend’s two-day festival marks the site’s grand opening.
It’s unclear whether the multi-day concert will drive listeners to iHeartRadio. Tickets sold out in 10 minutes.
Livio Lippetti, of Huntington Beach, Calif., traveled to Las Vegas to see Bruno Mars and the other headliners Friday. He said he had never heard of the website, despite advertisements promoting the site flashing over the stage after each act. He said he prefers Sirius XM Radio Inc.’s satellite service to web stations.“I’m all about XM,” he said."
'via Blog this'
"Jay-Z rapped about his beef with corporate radio in the monster jam “99 Problems,” noting that stations won’t play his hits if he doesn’t do their shows. But on Friday, he played savior to radio station giant Clear Channel, headlining a two-night concert billed as the largest in radio history and a major step toward keeping the industry alive in the dot-com era.
The rapper bounced across a stage outfitted with two drum sets and two guitarists as he spit out his biggest hits and swung the two oversized gold chains hanging from his neck. It was the final performance of a night that saw confetti bombs dust the shoulders of pop sensations Kelly Clarkson, The Black Eyed Peas,Bruno Mars and Carrie Underwood. The spectacle was scheduled to continue Saturday night, with headliners Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Sting and Steven Tyler.
The star-studded lineup usually reserved for charity concerts was a marketing blitz that drew thousands to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas and was broadcast to more than 10 million radio listeners across the country. Its intended beneficiary was iHeartRadio, Clear Channel’s revamped free personalized music website that allows users to create custom radio stations and is meant to compete with the web’s most popular online music services, especially Pandora.
“This is our coming out party,” said Bob Pittman, chairman of media and entertainment platforms for Clear Channel Communications Inc. “What makes the festival so unusual is every act is a headliner.”
The concert hosted by Ryan Seacrest began with the Black Eyed Peas taking the stage in a fit of confetti and pyrotechnics. Fergie, the pop group’s only female member, snaked across the stage in black shorts that revealed her butt cheeks.
Concertgoers also waved their glowing cellphones in the air for Alicia Keys, Coldplayand rock band Jane’s Addiction during the nearly five-hour concert. In a nod to Las Vegas’ showgirl tradition, two feather-frocked, barely clad dancers frolicked across the stage as Jane’s Addiction performed.
Coldplay frontman Chris Martin and Mars each paid tribute to late British soul diva Amy Winehouse, with Mars performing Winehouse’s “Valerie” as a brass quartet waved their horns in unison, and Martin urging the packed arena to join him in a mournful chorus of her prophetic hit “Rehab.”
Fireworks later dusted the stage as Martin twirled his arms, curved his hips and then rolled over backward in a flurry of dance. A psychedelic piano joined him on stage.
Keys and Jay-Z performed the only duet of the night, a sequin-drenched performance of their hit “Empire State of Mind.” Jay-Z thanked the crowd for singing along.
“I know I am on the West Coast,” he said.
The mix of country, rock, rap, pop and R&B was a deliberate nod to the broad array of music available on iHeartRadio, Pittman said. The revamped website allows listeners to hear the feeds of more than 800 stations or create individualized channels that stream music along specific genres. Listeners can access 400,000 artists and 11 million tracks, millions more than Pandora.
Pandora launched in 2005, offering revolutionary computer formulas that create personalized song lists based on each users’ tastes. It has grown to more than 30 million listeners each month.
Clear Channel is not about to cede its web listeners to another company. When it announced the iHeartRadio revamp, it had about 27 million listeners per month, just short of Pandora’s reach. This month, iHeartRadio climbed to 30 million listeners each month, Pittman said. In all, Clear Channel reaches 237 million monthly listeners over traditional radio airwaves, ensuring that the company will be able to promote the site to millions of potential consumers.
Clear Channel will also turn to the music site to identify emerging artists ready for traditional radio and get user feedback.
“It’s a way for us to discover more artists,” Pittman said.
The beta site launched Sept. 8. This weekend’s two-day festival marks the site’s grand opening.
It’s unclear whether the multi-day concert will drive listeners to iHeartRadio. Tickets sold out in 10 minutes.
Livio Lippetti, of Huntington Beach, Calif., traveled to Las Vegas to see Bruno Mars and the other headliners Friday. He said he had never heard of the website, despite advertisements promoting the site flashing over the stage after each act. He said he prefers Sirius XM Radio Inc.’s satellite service to web stations.“I’m all about XM,” he said."
'via Blog this'
The NBA Officially Canceled The First Two Weeks Of Preseason Games
The NBA Officially Canceled The First Two Weeks Of Preseason Games:
"You knew it was coming, NBA fans. But now the effects of the lockout are all too real.
Following another day of failed compromise, the NBA officially canceled training camp and preseason games through October 15 – 43 total games – on Friday.
The news isn’t unexpected. But that doesn’t make it any less jarring.
Hopes of a truce between NBA owners and the players association before the NBA calendar would be affected proved naïve. While there’s still time for an agreement before meaningful games are lost, that too, sounds unlikely.
"We have regretfully reached the point on the calendar where we are not able to open training camps on time and need to cancel the first week of preseason games," said NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement. "We will make further decisions as warranted."
The NBA will re-evaluate the suspension of the final two weeks of October’s preseason games by October 1, according to Yahoo Sports’ Adrian Wojnarowski.
The players have offered to drop its share of the basketball-related income from 57 percent to 53, but discussions surrounding the introduction of a hard cap remain a major obstacle.
Both sides hope to reconvene next week."
'via Blog this'
Following another day of failed compromise, the NBA officially canceled training camp and preseason games through October 15 – 43 total games – on Friday.
The news isn’t unexpected. But that doesn’t make it any less jarring.
Hopes of a truce between NBA owners and the players association before the NBA calendar would be affected proved naïve. While there’s still time for an agreement before meaningful games are lost, that too, sounds unlikely.
"We have regretfully reached the point on the calendar where we are not able to open training camps on time and need to cancel the first week of preseason games," said NBA Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver in a statement. "We will make further decisions as warranted."
The NBA will re-evaluate the suspension of the final two weeks of October’s preseason games by October 1, according to Yahoo Sports’ Adrian Wojnarowski.
The players have offered to drop its share of the basketball-related income from 57 percent to 53, but discussions surrounding the introduction of a hard cap remain a major obstacle.
Both sides hope to reconvene next week."
'via Blog this'
R.E.M. Breaks Up after 31 Years
"It’s the end of the world as we know it. Or at least, to R.E.M.’s biggest fans it may be. The iconic alternative rock band announced on their website today that they have “decided to call it a day as a band.” Not sure if this is really a big deal or not? Take a look at what R.E.M. has accomplished in their time together:
• 15 studio albums
• 6 platinum albums
• 2 number-one albums
• 85 million albums sold worldwide
• 59 singles
• 2007 induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
It is not hard to see how much the band has done. And for all their numerical feats, perhaps their biggest accomplishments lay in their influences on the rock music scene. According to Allmusic.com, R.E.M “mark the point when post-punk turned into alternative rock.” 31 years later, alt rock is still alive and flourishing today. Kurt Cobain, in an interview just months before his death, remarked, “I don’t know how that band does what they do. God, they’re the greatest. They’ve dealt with their success like saints, and they keep delivering great music.” The words are high praise from an artist who knew something or other about successful music.
On their website, R.E.M. released statements from each band member regarding the break up. Below, you can view these passages in full.
From Mike Mills: “During our last tour, and while making Collapse Into Now and putting together this greatest hits retrospective, we started asking ourselves, ‘what next’? Working through our music and memories from over three decades was a hell of a journey. We realized that these songs seemed to draw a natural line under the last 31 years of our working together.
“We have always been a band in the truest sense of the word. Brothers who truly love, and respect, each other. We feel kind of like pioneers in this–there’s no disharmony here, no falling-outs, no lawyers squaring-off. We’ve made this decision together, amicably and with each other’s best interests at heart. The time just feels right.”
From Michael Stipe: “A wise man once said–’the skill in attending a party is knowing when it’s time to leave.’ We built something extraordinary together. We did this thing. And now we’re going to walk away from it.
“I hope our fans realize this wasn’t an easy decision; but all things must end, and we wanted to do it right, to do it our way.
“We have to thank all the people who helped us be R.E.M. for these 31 years; our deepest gratitude to those who allowed us to do this. It’s been amazing.”
From Peter Buck: “One of the things that was always so great about being in R.E.M. was the fact that the records and the songs we wrote meant as much to our fans as they did to us. It was, and still is, important to us to do right by you. Being a part of your lives has been an unbelievable gift. Thank you.
“Mike, Michael, Bill, Bertis, and I walk away as great friends. I know I will be seeing them in the future, just as I know I will be seeing everyone who has followed us and supported us through the years. Even if it’s only in the vinyl aisle of your local record store, or standing at the back of the club: watching a group of 19 year olds trying to change the world.”
These poignant words from the three members of R.E.M. depict a band going out in about as tasteful of a way as possible, apropos to their entire career. And though R.E.M. leaves behind millions of fans, they also leave behind a wealth of music – 15 albums’ worth, to be exact. And that will always be there."-'via Blog this'
PTS Sports Corner Blog
PTS Sports Corner Blog: "
When the Rutgers Scarlet Knights signed their class of 2010, they were immediately the most heralded class the school had ever signed - until the class of 2011 signed their names on the dotted lines. This class has the type of potential that in 10-15 years down the line, they will be looked back upon as the class that helped RU turn the corner. In some instances we are already starting to see the impact of the class of 2011, such as the commitments of top 2012 players like Leonte Carroo, as well as being contenders for 5-star DE Darius Hamilton. Now as camp gets into full swing, we are starting to see the impact the Class of 2011 will have ON the field. Here's a player-by-player look at each of the recruits in the 2011 class and what kind of impact we think they will have this season.
Jonathan Aiken, CB - Aiken was one of the few EE for the Class of 2011. While he possesses good size and speed, there just seems to be way too much competition for him to jump into the fray right away.
Prediction: Plays on special teams and coverage units
Mike Bimonte, QB - Bimonte has good size and a nice zip on the ball, but there's no chance he unseats Chas Dodd. What he is really competing for is the backup QB spot.
Prediction: Redshirt
Paul Canevari, RB/FB - Canevari was ultra-productive on the national championship Don Bosco team, but does not have overwhelming measureables. That being said, after seeing what he did his senior year at Bosco, I wouldn't bet against him.
Predicition: Tough as nails, sees time on specials and eventually gets groomed for fullback role
Charles Davis, CB - N/A
Prediction: JUCO
Anthony DiPaula, K/P - DiPaula appears to be the heir apparent to San San Te next year at Kicker, but this year he should challenge to be the Punter.
Prediction: Holds off the walk-on competition and is the starting Punter Week 1.
Quentin Gause, LB - Gause is a physical freak of nature, having the build of a college linebacker before he ever stepped on campus. He is also coming in at a position of thin depth.
Prediction: Gause will play on all specials as a true freshman and will crack the 2 deep at LB by season opener. Don't be surprised if by midseason the combination of starting LBs is Gause, Beauharnais, and Greene.
Kyle George, DE - Another physically developed player who has all the tools to make an impact from Day 1. DE may be the second thinnest position behind LB, which works in George's favor.
Prediction: It seems very likely that George and Max Issaka will both see a great deal of playing time as true freshman, especially in pass rushing situations. Because of the lack of depth here, he should be in the rotation early and if he outplays Isaaka, he may even earn a starting spot at one DE.
Dallas Hendrickson, C- Hendrickson is a JUCO transfer who was expected to start at Center from the day he stepped on campus until a knee injury derailed him.
Prediction: Redshirt
Savon Huggins, RB - The most highly touted skill-position recruit to EVER commit to Rutgers, he has Freshman All-American potential and is physically and mentally mature beyond his years.
Prediction: Huggins will be RU's starting tailback sooner rather than later, with a good possibility the sooner being Week 1.
Max Issaka, DE - One of the handful of former Pitt commits to flip to RU when Hafley & Co. came to the Banks, Issaka has the size and speed necessary to be an impact DE from Day 1.
Prediction: He will crack the 2 deep by the end of camp and see extensive playing time this season, especially in passing and nickel situations.
Myles Jackson, DE - Jackson was one of the later offers RU gave out and while he certainly has the frame to work with, he is going to need some time in a strength and conditioning program, as well as an opportunity to truly learn the defensive end position.
Prediction: Redshirt
Kaleb Johnson, OG - Johnson comes to RU as one of the strongest players on the team already and he has been spoken very highly of by Coach Schiano thus far.
Prediction: Should be on the two deep at the guard slot opposite Lowery, with an outside chance to start at some point later this season.
Tejay Johnson, WR - Johnson had to spend a year at Fork Union upon graduation to get his grades in order, but reports out of camp so far is that he looks good and runs fast-very fast.
Prediction: This is a tossup because of the depth at WR, but I'll say he ends up playing on the return teams (KR/PR) and sees some playing time in the slot, allowing RU to redshirt Miles Shuler.
Kenneth Kirksey, DT - A teammate of Johnson's at Fork Union this past season, Kirksey is very well put together for a DT and because of the uncertainty opposite Scott Vallone, the opportunity for PT is there.
Prediction: Kirksey takes advantage of the lack of depth along the DL and sees extended playing time, even earning a few starts.
Tyler Kroft, TE - Kroft looks like he will be the tight end of the future for Rutgers, especially given the emphasis OC Frank Cignetti puts on the position.
Prediction - Redshirt
Keith Lumpkin, OT - An absolute mammoth of a young man, Lumpkin is already the tallest lineman on the Rutgers squad, but needs some time to get stronger and learn the position more and improve his technique.
Prediction - Redshirt
Ben Martin, RB - Martin certainly has the speed to be an asset at the RB position, recording a sub 4.4 last summer, but in a crowded backfield that features Savon Huggins and some talented veterans, carries will be hard to come by.
Prediction - Redshirt
Djwany Mera, DE/DT - Whether Mera plays DE or DT, one thing is for certain, he IS going to play.
Prediction - Mera will be a starter at some point this season on the DL.
Gary Nova, QB - Nova doesn't possess the size that Bimonte does, but as far as intangibles go, he falls into that Mike Teel-type category.
Prediction - Nova beats out Bimonte and is Chas Dodd's primary backup, getting some PT sporadically.
Al Page, DT - One of 4 true DTs that RU signed in the Class of 2011, Page is a wildcard at the DT position.
Prediction - I think between Kirksey, Mera, and the veterans, it allows Page to redshirt unless he blows up during camp.
Miles Shuler, WR - Shuler is one of the fastest football players in the entire country and while it's hard to keep that kind of speed on the sidelines, this will be his first season as a true wide receiver.
Prediction - Unfortunately for fans, Shuler redshirts and they have to wait a year to see that blazing speed spread the field.
Kevin Snyder, LB - Snyder has some great size for a linebacker and also moves well sideline-to-sideline. There has also been some talk of moving him to tight end.
Prediction: Snyder stays at LB, becoming part of the rotation and also plays on specials.
Daryl Stephenson, DT - Similar to Page, Stephenson will be a force at DT down the line, but unless he explodes during camp, it looks like he'll redshirt this season.
Prediction: Redshirt
Marquise Wright, DT - Wright has the tools and talent to make an impact right away, but it remains to be seen whether he will stay at DT or move to Guard.
Prediction: Redshirt, as they decide where to keep him permanently."
'via Blog this'
A LOOK AT RUTGERS' INCOMING FRESHMAN CLASS
When the Rutgers Scarlet Knights signed their class of 2010, they were immediately the most heralded class the school had ever signed - until the class of 2011 signed their names on the dotted lines. This class has the type of potential that in 10-15 years down the line, they will be looked back upon as the class that helped RU turn the corner. In some instances we are already starting to see the impact of the class of 2011, such as the commitments of top 2012 players like Leonte Carroo, as well as being contenders for 5-star DE Darius Hamilton. Now as camp gets into full swing, we are starting to see the impact the Class of 2011 will have ON the field. Here's a player-by-player look at each of the recruits in the 2011 class and what kind of impact we think they will have this season.
Jonathan Aiken, CB - Aiken was one of the few EE for the Class of 2011. While he possesses good size and speed, there just seems to be way too much competition for him to jump into the fray right away.
Prediction: Plays on special teams and coverage units
Mike Bimonte, QB - Bimonte has good size and a nice zip on the ball, but there's no chance he unseats Chas Dodd. What he is really competing for is the backup QB spot.
Prediction: Redshirt
Paul Canevari, RB/FB - Canevari was ultra-productive on the national championship Don Bosco team, but does not have overwhelming measureables. That being said, after seeing what he did his senior year at Bosco, I wouldn't bet against him.
Predicition: Tough as nails, sees time on specials and eventually gets groomed for fullback role
Charles Davis, CB - N/A
Prediction: JUCO
Anthony DiPaula, K/P - DiPaula appears to be the heir apparent to San San Te next year at Kicker, but this year he should challenge to be the Punter.
Prediction: Holds off the walk-on competition and is the starting Punter Week 1.
Quentin Gause, LB - Gause is a physical freak of nature, having the build of a college linebacker before he ever stepped on campus. He is also coming in at a position of thin depth.
Prediction: Gause will play on all specials as a true freshman and will crack the 2 deep at LB by season opener. Don't be surprised if by midseason the combination of starting LBs is Gause, Beauharnais, and Greene.
Kyle George, DE - Another physically developed player who has all the tools to make an impact from Day 1. DE may be the second thinnest position behind LB, which works in George's favor.
Prediction: It seems very likely that George and Max Issaka will both see a great deal of playing time as true freshman, especially in pass rushing situations. Because of the lack of depth here, he should be in the rotation early and if he outplays Isaaka, he may even earn a starting spot at one DE.
Dallas Hendrickson, C- Hendrickson is a JUCO transfer who was expected to start at Center from the day he stepped on campus until a knee injury derailed him.
Prediction: Redshirt
Savon Huggins, RB - The most highly touted skill-position recruit to EVER commit to Rutgers, he has Freshman All-American potential and is physically and mentally mature beyond his years.
Prediction: Huggins will be RU's starting tailback sooner rather than later, with a good possibility the sooner being Week 1.
Max Issaka, DE - One of the handful of former Pitt commits to flip to RU when Hafley & Co. came to the Banks, Issaka has the size and speed necessary to be an impact DE from Day 1.
Prediction: He will crack the 2 deep by the end of camp and see extensive playing time this season, especially in passing and nickel situations.
Myles Jackson, DE - Jackson was one of the later offers RU gave out and while he certainly has the frame to work with, he is going to need some time in a strength and conditioning program, as well as an opportunity to truly learn the defensive end position.
Prediction: Redshirt
Kaleb Johnson, OG - Johnson comes to RU as one of the strongest players on the team already and he has been spoken very highly of by Coach Schiano thus far.
Prediction: Should be on the two deep at the guard slot opposite Lowery, with an outside chance to start at some point later this season.
Tejay Johnson, WR - Johnson had to spend a year at Fork Union upon graduation to get his grades in order, but reports out of camp so far is that he looks good and runs fast-very fast.
Prediction: This is a tossup because of the depth at WR, but I'll say he ends up playing on the return teams (KR/PR) and sees some playing time in the slot, allowing RU to redshirt Miles Shuler.
Kenneth Kirksey, DT - A teammate of Johnson's at Fork Union this past season, Kirksey is very well put together for a DT and because of the uncertainty opposite Scott Vallone, the opportunity for PT is there.
Prediction: Kirksey takes advantage of the lack of depth along the DL and sees extended playing time, even earning a few starts.
Tyler Kroft, TE - Kroft looks like he will be the tight end of the future for Rutgers, especially given the emphasis OC Frank Cignetti puts on the position.
Prediction - Redshirt
Keith Lumpkin, OT - An absolute mammoth of a young man, Lumpkin is already the tallest lineman on the Rutgers squad, but needs some time to get stronger and learn the position more and improve his technique.
Prediction - Redshirt
Ben Martin, RB - Martin certainly has the speed to be an asset at the RB position, recording a sub 4.4 last summer, but in a crowded backfield that features Savon Huggins and some talented veterans, carries will be hard to come by.
Prediction - Redshirt
Djwany Mera, DE/DT - Whether Mera plays DE or DT, one thing is for certain, he IS going to play.
Prediction - Mera will be a starter at some point this season on the DL.
Gary Nova, QB - Nova doesn't possess the size that Bimonte does, but as far as intangibles go, he falls into that Mike Teel-type category.
Prediction - Nova beats out Bimonte and is Chas Dodd's primary backup, getting some PT sporadically.
Al Page, DT - One of 4 true DTs that RU signed in the Class of 2011, Page is a wildcard at the DT position.
Prediction - I think between Kirksey, Mera, and the veterans, it allows Page to redshirt unless he blows up during camp.
Miles Shuler, WR - Shuler is one of the fastest football players in the entire country and while it's hard to keep that kind of speed on the sidelines, this will be his first season as a true wide receiver.
Prediction - Unfortunately for fans, Shuler redshirts and they have to wait a year to see that blazing speed spread the field.
Kevin Snyder, LB - Snyder has some great size for a linebacker and also moves well sideline-to-sideline. There has also been some talk of moving him to tight end.
Prediction: Snyder stays at LB, becoming part of the rotation and also plays on specials.
Daryl Stephenson, DT - Similar to Page, Stephenson will be a force at DT down the line, but unless he explodes during camp, it looks like he'll redshirt this season.
Prediction: Redshirt
Marquise Wright, DT - Wright has the tools and talent to make an impact right away, but it remains to be seen whether he will stay at DT or move to Guard.
Prediction: Redshirt, as they decide where to keep him permanently."
'via Blog this'
Peak Seats Mobile App, growing fast!
Seems like we might be at a tipping point available in the market for mobile apps and exactly how they may be becoming the go-to place for digital content. A brand new dollop of number-crunching coming from the app analytics company Flurry claims that for the first time, this month within the U.S. mobile app consumption overtook web surfing—on mobile and PC—in relation to minutes of use.
Inside of a article, Flurry notes that until now of the month of June, mobile apps by the U.S. averaged out at 81 minutes all day of use, while web use averaged out at 74 minutes. Finding tickets through mobile apps have become increasingly popular. NFL football ticket sales through mobile apps have hit an all time high.
Flurry’s figures are based on its own U.S. data, which it says covers 500 million “aggregated, anonymous use sessions per day across greater than 85,000 applications,” on iOS, Android, Windows Phone, BlackBerry and J2ME platforms. The net stats, meanwhile, are assisted by Alexa and comScore (NSDQ: SCOR) and take account of minutes spent on the “open web,” “mobile web” and Facebook.
Allocating on account that Flurry can be quite a tad biased within the position here—it’s an app analytics company, so bigging-up the rise of apps benefits it greatly—and that it’s not quite clear what precisely is being covered on the other hand of a typical fence—where do web apps slot in? where do sites requiring subscriptions go (is your potential agent “open”)? and does this include time spent on work computers or just those invoved with people’s homes?—taken alone the sheer rise of app usage after a while speaks to how briskly apps have grown as a considerate medium. Flurry notes that app usage has grown by 91 percent over the past year.
It may also underscores simply how much people (well, people by the U.S., at the very least) just like for yourself have their content targeted and served directly, instead of being an all-you-can eat buffet, as they say.
Drawing out those food items metaphor more, it seems like like people like to eat content like tapas: “growth has grown primarily from more sessions per user, per day as an alternative to a big growth normally session lengths,” writes Flurry’s product marketing manager Charles Newark-French.
Apps are undoubtedly still in his or her early days, in comparison to the now-mature web, which grew by only 16 percent during the past year. Mobile ticket apps are on the rise as well. With apps that specialize in concert tickets, sports tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets and Las Veags tickets, you can get an app that gets you the best ticket available.
What's going to be interesting to watch is so how has the balance will alter in the year ahead. We are precisely only now commencing to see an earnest rise of “web apps” like the FT’s and Facebook’s that create app-like experiences but with less client-side storage of content.
There also are undoubtedly still more innovations for being manufactured in native mobile web browsers: apparently Apple’s new iOS 5 build is outperforming Windows Phone Mango, which looked pretty fast when it was previewed earlier this year. All of this could go in a way to swinging minutes away from apps and back to the net again.
Inside of a article, Flurry notes that until now of the month of June, mobile apps by the U.S. averaged out at 81 minutes all day of use, while web use averaged out at 74 minutes. Finding tickets through mobile apps have become increasingly popular. NFL football ticket sales through mobile apps have hit an all time high.
Flurry’s figures are based on its own U.S. data, which it says covers 500 million “aggregated, anonymous use sessions per day across greater than 85,000 applications,” on iOS, Android, Windows Phone, BlackBerry and J2ME platforms. The net stats, meanwhile, are assisted by Alexa and comScore (NSDQ: SCOR) and take account of minutes spent on the “open web,” “mobile web” and Facebook.
Allocating on account that Flurry can be quite a tad biased within the position here—it’s an app analytics company, so bigging-up the rise of apps benefits it greatly—and that it’s not quite clear what precisely is being covered on the other hand of a typical fence—where do web apps slot in? where do sites requiring subscriptions go (is your potential agent “open”)? and does this include time spent on work computers or just those invoved with people’s homes?—taken alone the sheer rise of app usage after a while speaks to how briskly apps have grown as a considerate medium. Flurry notes that app usage has grown by 91 percent over the past year.
It may also underscores simply how much people (well, people by the U.S., at the very least) just like for yourself have their content targeted and served directly, instead of being an all-you-can eat buffet, as they say.
Drawing out those food items metaphor more, it seems like like people like to eat content like tapas: “growth has grown primarily from more sessions per user, per day as an alternative to a big growth normally session lengths,” writes Flurry’s product marketing manager Charles Newark-French.
Apps are undoubtedly still in his or her early days, in comparison to the now-mature web, which grew by only 16 percent during the past year. Mobile ticket apps are on the rise as well. With apps that specialize in concert tickets, sports tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets and Las Veags tickets, you can get an app that gets you the best ticket available.
What's going to be interesting to watch is so how has the balance will alter in the year ahead. We are precisely only now commencing to see an earnest rise of “web apps” like the FT’s and Facebook’s that create app-like experiences but with less client-side storage of content.
There also are undoubtedly still more innovations for being manufactured in native mobile web browsers: apparently Apple’s new iOS 5 build is outperforming Windows Phone Mango, which looked pretty fast when it was previewed earlier this year. All of this could go in a way to swinging minutes away from apps and back to the net again.
Broncos bring power and strength to the 2011 line of defense.
If you have been addicted to the Denver Broncos for very long, you recognize the fact that the defensive line has not been a strength team -- for a long time. To have a a large number of the very last 7-10 seasons, the Broncos have had average defenses, and most times have taken very poor run defense. The main reason due to this, for me personally, is your defensive line has not been a strength. There have been a range of veteran free agent signings who have not solved (Daryl Gardener, Jarvis Green, Jamal Williams, etc.). The draft has really not helped with all the talent on your defensive position either. Mike Shanahan had decent success drafting defensive lineman (Trevor Pryce, Marcus Thomas, Elvis Dumervil). Josh McDaniels didn't address the line of defense inside the draft in any respect, it also was one of the biggest mistakes he produced in Denver (which is saying lots, because he made A huge number of mistakes).
The rationale the defensive line is going to be a unit of strength this year is simple - competition. The Broncos front office added players which have been highly touted and underachieved (Derrick Harvey, Brodrick Bunkley, both former 1st round picks), with a guy that has been an expert bowler (Ty Warren). On top of fresh players, there are a couple of returning players that ought to thrive in the 4-3 defense, and never require to have been within the 3-4 defense in the first place (Robert Ayers, Marcus Thomas). Oh yeah, there's that other guy named Elvis that will be making his return this year. Elvis Dumervil has bulked up and appears like he's ready ensure it is a terrible experience for opposing quarterbacks on passing downs. Forget about playing linebacker, he'll be lining within a 3-point stance every play.
While many "experts" are quick to write-off the moves the Broncos have formulated to bolster their defensive line, I would like to elucidate why I don't agree. The Broncos created younger guys (Harvey, Bunkley) which can be seeking to prove they belong inside the NFL. Many "experts" once said these guys were worth the danger of drafting within the first round. Well, which "experts" were wrong then!? Harvey and Bunkley the two of them have short contracts remaining, and can need to influence the Broncos, and scouts around the league, that these belong. There is no better way to prove you belong than to earn an area in the defensive line rotation for your Broncos this year. Now that the awful performance of a little while ago, any improvement will be noticed, but a major improvement could earn some big paychecks. Heck, even Ty Warren needs to prove something this year. After sitting out last year with a hip injury, daegan has to make certain that he are available back healthy and play at a high level. He's 30 years old and most definitely has a two-year contract with the Broncos. If he can enjoy alright two years, another contract could be in his future.
The Broncos players which can be coming back from not too long ago should do in fresh defensive scheme (Ayers, Dumervil, Thomas). While Robert Ayers is going to be playing defensive end, he will move inside to tackle on passing downs -- to be able to make room for 2011 first round pick, Von Miller. This is certainly what Ayers did in college, and is more natural for him. He can stuff the run, plus get now that the quarterback. He will not need to be a stand-up linebacker and can be much more comfortable. The best part is that with Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil bringing heat off edges, Ayers have to get good one-on-one matchups against guards and centers. Marcus Thomas is my candidate for breakout player of your year -- that's right, you heard it here first. Thomas is crazy athletic, and his skills shall be utilized under John Fox. Smith a one-year contract, and can certainly look to play well and earn large pay check day.
What do you think of those Broncos line of defense this year? Will they finally be dominant, or will they actually be a disappointment like they have been through the years?
The rationale the defensive line is going to be a unit of strength this year is simple - competition. The Broncos front office added players which have been highly touted and underachieved (Derrick Harvey, Brodrick Bunkley, both former 1st round picks), with a guy that has been an expert bowler (Ty Warren). On top of fresh players, there are a couple of returning players that ought to thrive in the 4-3 defense, and never require to have been within the 3-4 defense in the first place (Robert Ayers, Marcus Thomas). Oh yeah, there's that other guy named Elvis that will be making his return this year. Elvis Dumervil has bulked up and appears like he's ready ensure it is a terrible experience for opposing quarterbacks on passing downs. Forget about playing linebacker, he'll be lining within a 3-point stance every play.
While many "experts" are quick to write-off the moves the Broncos have formulated to bolster their defensive line, I would like to elucidate why I don't agree. The Broncos created younger guys (Harvey, Bunkley) which can be seeking to prove they belong inside the NFL. Many "experts" once said these guys were worth the danger of drafting within the first round. Well, which "experts" were wrong then!? Harvey and Bunkley the two of them have short contracts remaining, and can need to influence the Broncos, and scouts around the league, that these belong. There is no better way to prove you belong than to earn an area in the defensive line rotation for your Broncos this year. Now that the awful performance of a little while ago, any improvement will be noticed, but a major improvement could earn some big paychecks. Heck, even Ty Warren needs to prove something this year. After sitting out last year with a hip injury, daegan has to make certain that he are available back healthy and play at a high level. He's 30 years old and most definitely has a two-year contract with the Broncos. If he can enjoy alright two years, another contract could be in his future.
The Broncos players which can be coming back from not too long ago should do in fresh defensive scheme (Ayers, Dumervil, Thomas). While Robert Ayers is going to be playing defensive end, he will move inside to tackle on passing downs -- to be able to make room for 2011 first round pick, Von Miller. This is certainly what Ayers did in college, and is more natural for him. He can stuff the run, plus get now that the quarterback. He will not need to be a stand-up linebacker and can be much more comfortable. The best part is that with Von Miller and Elvis Dumervil bringing heat off edges, Ayers have to get good one-on-one matchups against guards and centers. Marcus Thomas is my candidate for breakout player of your year -- that's right, you heard it here first. Thomas is crazy athletic, and his skills shall be utilized under John Fox. Smith a one-year contract, and can certainly look to play well and earn large pay check day.
What do you think of those Broncos line of defense this year? Will they finally be dominant, or will they actually be a disappointment like they have been through the years?
Indiana State Fair Stage Collapsed In High Winds
This was the scene that over 12,000 concert goers’ at the Indiana State Fair were shocked to witness as the performance stages collapsed this past Saturday, August 13. Sara Bareilles had just left the stage moments before after completing her performance, and fans were eagerly awaiting the next act – Sugarland – to take the stage. Suddenly the stage began to sway, as winds picked up to intense speeds and totally demolished the temporary structure. Labeled a ‘freakish accident’ by Governor Mitch Daniels, thus tragic accident left 5 dead and more than 40 were injured.
Onlookers reported that many actually ran TOWARDS the collapsing structure to try and help those in harm’s way.
On Sunday, a memorial was held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in honor of those who were killed the day before.
“There are no words to process a moment of this magnitude and gravity,” Sugarland’s Jennifer Nettles said in a statement posted Sunday on the band’s website. “There are only prayers for peace in the hearts of the bereft, and prayers of thanksgiving for those who were spared or safe. A piece of our heart is left in the grandstand.”
The Indianapolis tragedy was the third such outdoor musical event of the summer in which sudden, heavy winds destroyed all or part of a stage, leading to inquiries and reassessments about what further precautions can be taken to insure the safety of both fans and bands.
We’re Paying Attention To The NFL Preseason So You Don’t Have To: Takeaways From Week 1
We’re Paying Attention To The NFL Preseason So You Don’t Have To: Takeaways From Week 1 - "Preseason football came back in all its unspectacular glory this weekend.These games are a chore to follow, so here’s a rundown of what we learned while you weren’t watching.
The new kickoff rule is going to make football less fun: The NFL moved kickoffs up five yards to the 35-yard line this year. The result: 33% of kickoffs have been touchbacks so far this preseason, compared to 16% during the 2010 regular season. So expect a lot of anticlimactic kneeling this year.
Michael Vick played so well, Andy Reid benched him: The Eagles justified the hype with an eight play, 80-yard drive to start the preseason. Coach Andy Reid was originally going to play the first-team offense for the entire first quarter, but he saw enough on that one drive to pull Vick and Co. seven minutes into the game.
Tom Brady was “shocked”: The Golden Boy didn’t play in New England’s mauling of Jacksonville. Afterward, Brady expressed his surprise: “We were ready to play. [Bill Belichick] told us the night before the game we weren't playing, which I think shocked probably all of us, but it's not like we can go put ourselves in the game.”
It’s not like New England needed him: They won 47-12.
Oh by the way, the Pats are looking to sign more old men: They’re working out veteran receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, and veteran safety Darren Sharper today.
Cam Newton is a star: Call it premature, call it unjustified hype, but there was a definite buzz in the crowd when Cam Newton took the field for the Panthers on Friday night. He responded well, zipping a 30-yard pass up the seam to Greg Olsen en route to a 8-19, 134-yard performance.
Matt Stafford added fuel the Lions hype machine: The oft-injured QB was 6-7 for 71 yards and 2 TDs. It was against the Bengals, who are basically a glorified college team at this point. But still, this could be his breakout year.
San Francisco still doesn’t have a quarterback: The un-dynamic duo of Alex Smith and Colin Kaepernick was sacked six times in the first half against New Orleans."
Iowa State Fair - Great Music and Fried Butter On A Stick! - Video - KCCI Des Moines
What goes better with good music like good food? Iowa State fairgoers are one week away from seeing, hearing and tasting all this year’s Fair has to offer. Helping to celebrate 100 years of the Butter Cow, fried butter on-a-stick will make its debut. The new buttery treat features butter dipped in a honey-flavored batter, fried golden brown and served on a stick. Additional foods on a stick include fried cheesecake, chocolate covered fried ice cream, and peanut butter and jelly. These treats join more than 50 foods on-a-stick offered at the Fair. Once you get your fried butter on a stick, check out the great seats available for the 2011 Grandstand Shows.
2011 Iowa State Fair Grandstand Line-up
Presented by U.S. Cellular
Sunday, August 21 An Evening w Janet Jackson: Up Close and Personal
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