Little Eli on the Way

The NY Post reported that Eli Manning, quarterback for the NY Giants, and wife Abby, are pregnant with their first child. Abby, 26, is due in the spring. The two met in college at Ole Miss and have been married for two and a half years. They now live in Hoboken.

Hopefully this child will be born with a throwing arm, otherwise it is going to be tough growing up in the Manning family, with grandfather Archie, uncle Payton, and dad Eli, all being NFL superstars.

Explosive Hitting in Game 1

Despite the match up of two all-star pitchers in Game 1 of the World Series (Cliff Lee of the Texas Rangers took on Tim Lincecum of the SF Giants), the teams scored a total of 18 runs! The Giants pulled out the win with 11 runs and forced Rangers manager to pull Cliff Lee in the 5th inning. Between the two teams, 12 pitchers were used throughout the game!

Even with the great hitting by the Giants, former Giant all-star batter, Barry Bonds , stated that one day he would like to be a hitting coach for his old team. Bonds said that he "[has] a gift and sooner or later I have to give it away. . .I have to share it. Hopefully, I will get the opportunity here." Well, it doesn't look like the Giants need you Barry - especially since you are soon to face perjury charges in federal court for denying your use of steroids. Why don't you focus on not going to jail before you try to get a fresh start in baseball.

NFL Players Love Kim Kardashian

What is it about Kim Kardashian? Her good looks? Her big tush? Or her crazy family? I am not quite sure what makes her The cat's meow for football players, but to NFLers she is the end all be all.

This week. New York Giants players Hakeem Nicks, Steve Smith, and Mike Boley were drooling to get near Kim at club Greenhouse. The footballers were initially rejected from entering Kim's VIP area but after some drooling and begging, the players will permited to go in and meet Kim.

Hopefully this was a humbling experience for these players, who need to remember that they have only won a few games this season and are not playing like the stars they think they are.

Defeated? - Heat lose to Celtics in Season Opener

The 2010 NBA season opened last night with Lebron James and the supposedly unstoppable Miami Heat, with the supporting cast of Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh, losing to the Boston Celtics, 80-88. Hopes of an undefeated season were quickly distinguished as the Big Three committed 15 of the team's 17 turnovers. Lebron still had a big night with 31 points, but Wade and Bosh failed to adequately support their new star. The Heat will still be a powerhouse, but it is going to take more time than expected for the Big Three to click. Just remember how the cast of "Friends" produced more natural interactions after the first few seasons...Miami, have faith. Your time to reign is still approaching.

For a quick run down of the 20 questions of the 2010 NBA season, click here. It is a great article from ESPN that breaks down the issues in a way we can all understand. Enjoy!

Big Paycheck worth a few Tough New Yorkers

Tune in tonight for Game 1 of the 2010 World Series where the Texas Rangers will take on the San Francisco Giants. Rangers superstar pitcher Cliff Lee will take the mound for likely his last series as a Ranger.

Lee has been in talks with the New York Yankees since July to be another, uh well sellout. Lee will be a free agent at the end of this year (meaning he is free to sign with another team). If traded to the Yankees, Lee will likely earn a contract between five and seven years for $100-$150 million!

Even after Lee's wife was spit on, heckled at, and taunted by the Yankees fans during the ALCS series agains the Rangers, she is still ready to move to the big city. Mrs. Lee and her hubby have been quick to excuse the Yanks from their disrespectful behavior. Clearly, the paycheck is worth a few spitballs and insults.

LeBron "Rise"

Click here

Lebron Responds to the Critics

After making the controversial move to the Miami Heat from the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lebron James faced the wrath of the public and the media, becoming one of the most despised individuals in the public eye. James made the public's perception of himself even worse by subsequently blaming race for his low ratings. This just further fueled the fire.

Now, James has released a new Nike commercial asking the public, "Should I be who you want me to be?" With the new NBA season starting, James and Nike are challenging the public's perception of James. The video, which can be seen above, portrays James in different stages of his life with a comedic and insightful tone.

I appreciate James' insightful approach to regain his image, but at the end of the day, a player who makes millions and millions from fan appreciation should just shut up and conform somewhat to what the fans want him to be. James should be what we want him to be, because otherwise it will be money out of his pocket. And moreover, this video continues to portray James as the arrogrant baller we have grown distaste for. An apology of any kind would have more of an effect than a ploy to further challenge his fans and the public.

Watch the video and let me know what you think!

More Sad News

Paul the Octopus died today in Germany after a long career of predicting World Cup Soccer winners. Paul died of natural causes at the old age (for an Octopus) of 2 1/2 years old. He successfully predicted the winners of seven of the 2010 World Cup matches, including picking Spain over the Netherlands in the championship game. He will be missed.

Devastating News for America's Team

Last night's Monday Night Football match up was a classic between America's team, the Dallas Cowboys, and the New York Giants. The Cowboys getting off to a slow start this year had something to prove. Unfortunately, after being up 10-7 and having all the momentum, Dallas QB Tony Romo, went down with a broken collarbone. The Cowboys stayed in the game but ultimately fell to the Giants 41-35 and are now 1-5 on the season.

Romo will be out for at least 6-8 weeks, making the Cowboys prospects this season look dim. I bet Romo now wishes Jessica Simpson was around for better luck and to nurse him back to health!

The Book You have Been Waiting For...

I know you have been holding your breath waiting for its release, but Tiger Woods' mistress, Loredana Jolie, has announced that her tell-all book regarding the details of her affair with Woods will be released next month. The book will share some steamy details, but I wouldn't expect anything more than gossip from the stripper who says that while with Tiger she was "like on the seventh cloud, especially from a sexual perspective." Jolie has a hard time separating the "cloud 9" and "seventh heaven" concepts.

This book will be the first of many - hopefully the quality will improve...

Quick Weekend Recap

Again it was another huge sports weekend. Here is what you missed:

NFL: Lots of ugly performances and weak teams threatening leaders - Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler had four interceptions in his loss to the Washington Redskins. Superbowl champs were stunned by the crappy Cleveland Browns. And Aaron Rodgers got off lucky with his two interceptions, because his team pulled out a win against rivals Minnesota Vikings and Brett Favre, who had three interceptions and couldnt score the winning touchdown with less than a minute left.

But tune in tonight for the game of the week on Monday Night Football - NY Giants v. Dallas Cowboys. This game is a must win for the C'boys who have had a rough start to the season and need to take down division rival Giants.

NCAA Football: Another No. 1 ranked team, Oklahoma, fell this week leaving the leader board up for grabs. Auburn stepped into number 1 with a win over LSU, with Oregon falling in at no. 2, and Boise State staying strong at no. 3. With how the season has gone, there will be more shake ups coming our way, but Boise State better start praying for these other big names to lose in order to have a chance at the title game.

MLB: The World Series is set and shockingly it comes down to the San Francisco Giants against the Texas Rangers. This is the Rangers' first World Series appearance in franchise history (and the Giants' first since 1954)! MLB may be bummed about this matchup, because it is sure to suffer in the TV ratings with the weak following of these teams, but doesn't everyone love an underdog matchup? Game 1 - Wednesday 8pm. est. Tune In.

The NFL's Misdirected Concern

The sports talk last week focussed on the NFL's policy to suspend and further fine players for dangerous hits on the field. Responses to the policy were mixed, but there were fewer on-field dangerous hits this week - coincidence? Well, despite fewer scary collisions on the field, the off-the-field behavior of the NFL players continues to be worrisome.

Tennessee Titan wide receiver, Kenny Britt, was involved in a fight at Club Karma in Nashville Tennessee on Friday night. Britt allegedly punched a guy after he had fallen to the ground from fighting with a third individual. The victim stated that he went to the hospital and received stitches above his eye. He is planning on pressing charges.

Despite this brawl Britt showed up as usual to his game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday and had an all-star appearance scoring three touchdowns. (I am especially focused on this story, because I benched Britt on my fantasy team yesterday due to inconsistency and therefore lost forty five points to my score! Huge bummer.) What about the NFL and team's discipline policy??? A player can somehow get fined and suspended for hits on the field, but gets to play (and earn huge bonuses) after beating up a civilian? The team did actually suspend Britt for the first quarter, but is that enough? Maybe the NFL and the Titans will address this issue further this week, but Britt still walked away with a moment of fame after avoiding a moment of shame.

What to Watch This Weekend

Whatever your fancy, there is a ton of good sports to tune into this weekend:

MLB

• Tonight see the Yanks face the Rangers, where Texas will try again to close it out and head to the World Series. (8 pm est.)
• And since the SF Giants failed to close out the Phillies last night at home, they will now be forced to head back east and win on foreign soil. (Saturday 4 pm est.)

NFL

• As you are aware, Sunday is all about football. This week just catch a few minutes and see if you can see the hits get softer. The players are worried about getting suspended and fined so it will be interesting to see if the game changes.

NCAA Football

• The SEC showdown of the week is fourth ranked Auburn v. sixth ranked LSU. You won't see any southern charm at this match-up because the pride of the south is on the line. (Saturday 3:30 pm est. CBS)
• Wisconsin, ranked 15th, takes on Iowa, ranked 13th, will be a tight match. Will it be the corn or the cheese that wins out? (Saturday 3:30 pm est. ABC/ESPN)

Rooney Agrees to 5 Year Deal with ManU

Wayne Rooney, arguably the best soccer player in the world, has just agreed to a five year deal with the English club Manchester United. This is quite a turn of events after Rooney has been whining all week about his time at Man U and how he wants out due to the team's failure to improve its roster. Apparently, the two sides reconciled and although the contract is for an unknown amount, it is clear that a big paycheck was signed.

Rooney has had a bit of a troubled past on and off the field. After being the Player of the Year two years ago with 30+ goals during the season, he scored only one goal last season. The club claimed Rooney was suffering from an ankle injury, which Rooney then adamantly denied. Rooney also appeared in the tabloids with an alleged affair with a prostitute while his wife was pregnant - not a good image, even if you are trying to be a bad boy.

Rooney is only 24 years old and has millions under his belt. With that lack of maturity and financial surplus its unlikely that the drama will end anytime soon.

Baseball Update - Year of the Underdog?

It looks like it is going to be the year of the underdog in the MLB. The SF Giants have the opportunity to go to the World Series tonight by beating out the Philadelphia Phillies. And on Friday night, the Texas Rangers go home to try to knock out the almighty Yankees.

If these two teams can pull out wins it will be bigger than Jason Wu beating out the Oscar de la Rentas for Michele Obama's inaugural gown and Roberto Benigni beating out Tom Hanks and Nick Nolte for Best Actor at the Oscars for his performance in "Life is Beautiful." (Although Benigni's winning speech will never be topped by any game winning celebration!)

NFL needs Magic to come back to LA?

Earlier this week Sportsgirl reported that Magic Johnson sold his share of the Los Angeles Lakers. Well Magic has increased his liquidity by also selling his share of Starbucks outlets. These business moves have driven the speculation as to what Magic may invest in next .... well, word on the street is that his goal is to help bring the NFL back to Los Angeles. (Yes, the National Football League, not basketball.)

Johnson stated that he "really, really wants the NFL to come back to L.A." However, he has not had any discussions with the league itself.

Clearly, this talk is all very premature, but I am down with anything and everything to bring the NFL back to LA, the second largest media city in the U.S. It's just crazy that there is no team in la-la land, especially with all the money and investors involved in this move over the last decade. Maybe Johnson has the "magic" needed to make the NFL come to Hollywood.

Mark Cuban Gives some Free Advice

Mark Cuban, the outspoken owner of the NBA's Dallas Mavericks, was spotted the other night at a NYC restaurant chatting with The Situation. Apparently, The Situation, approached Cuban with his business partners to get advice on a bunch of deals he is considering. The "Jersey Shore" star has marketed himself well with "Dancing with the Stars," a workout DVD, and sponsorship of a protein-infused vodka. He is now also considering investing in a gym at The Plaza.

I applaud The Situation for being so focused on the next steps of his career, but do you really see him being a good fit for The Plaza? Maybe the NYC icon is really going down hill.

Topic of the Week

After this past NFL weekend games, the talk of the town is the NFL's declaration to suspend players for violent conduct. The NFL previously imposed fines for these flagrant fouls, but the new sanctions were brought on by three major hits that occurred this weekend between players on the field. The league hopes that suspensions will deter players from committing these hits and coaches from teaching their players to hit/tackle in a particularly dangerous way.

Although this may initially appear as a sensible policy to protect players, it has become very controversial. First, the policy is unclear in that it fails to define what type of hit will be considered dangerous or flagrant. As a result, players and coaches are not sure how to act in response to the policy in this week's games, making them subject to fines and suspensions. Secondly, the policy arguably changes the nature of the game. Football is about big hits. That is a huge reason for its popularity, especially in TV ratings. It is understandable that, i.e. helmet to helmet, hits are illegal, but the other types of hits at issue have been part of the game forever and to take them out now significantly changes the game. Thirdly, as one former player and coach pointed out, playing football is a privilege. Players have the option to not play in the NFL if they do not want to get hit. No one is forcing them to be on the field.

Sure, the NFL has a responsibility to protect players, but does this policy go too far? IS the NFL acting rashly in response to one weekend of big hits? Tell me what YOU think!

Forbidden Shoe

The NBA has banned players from wearing the new Athletic Propulsion Lab's $300 Concept 1 basketball shoe. The shoe, designed by twins Adam and Ryan Goldston, former USC basketball walk-on players, contains a spring based system that is meant to increase a player's vertical lift.

The NBA rules state that a player may not wear a shoe that creates an undue competitive advantage. But is this really an "undue competitive advantage?" Can't all players choose to wear the shoe? Shoes are not like steroids, they are simply equipment for the game that is available for all.

What do you think - should the shoe be banned?

Underdog Rangers

The Texas Rangers just a couple of months ago were in the midst of a tumultuous bankruptcy proceeding where Nolan Ryan beat out Mark Cuban to get control of the team. Well now, the Rangers are just one game away from the World Series!!! And to add to their credit, it is the Yankees that they are about to take down to get there - yes, the Yankees, the team with the highest payroll and stacked line-up.

Tune in tonight to see if the Rangers can make it to the big dance. 3 p.m. est.

Lakers Lose their Magic

Remember NBA player Magic Johnson from back in the day? Of course you do, because he is one of the best bballers of all time. Well, since his days as a player (Magic played all of his 13 seasons in the NBA with the Lakers), Magic briefly coached the Lakers, became a broadcaster, and bought a 4.5% stake in the Lakers franchise. Yesterday, it was announced that Magic sold his share in the team to Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, a 25 year Lakers ticket holder and more importantly, successful physician, buisnessman, and teacher.

Apparently, Magic sold his share with the hope of one day purchasing a larger stake in a professional team. (Recently, Magic has shown interest in purchasing a large stake in the Detroit Pistons.) Can the Lakers go on without Magic on their side?

Sanchez's New Girlfriend?

Since the rumor has started let's fuel it...

NY Post today reports that cutie Jets QB Mark Sanchez is chasing sports reporter Lindsay McCormick to be his new girlfriend. The two have known each other for a long time, but McCormick is based in Portland while Sanchez is in NY, so the two have seen little of each other as of late. Moreover, McCormick denies being anything more than friends with Sanchez.

Who knows what's really happening between these two, but lucky for you blondes, looks like Sanchez has moved on from the brunettes!

Fight with Spouse Led Seau Off of Cliff

Former NFL Pro-Bowler and member of the 1990s All-Decade team, Junior Seau, was just hospitalized after driving his SUV off of a cliff in California. Seau only suffered minor injuries.

Late Sunday night Seau was arrested at his home for felony spousal report after his live-in girlfriend called the cops. Seau was put into a detention facility, but eventually released around 3 a.m. Monday morning after posting bail. Shortly thereafter, he was found in his car after driving off of the cliff.

It is unclear why Seau drove his car off of that cliff, but it is no coincidence that a domestic violence incident occurred shortly beforehand. Seau, men constantly claim that their girlfriends/wives make them "want to jump off a cliff" - you are not supposed to actually go through with it...

Matchmaker for T.O.

We all saw on "The T.O. Show" that Cincinnati Bengal, Terrell Owens, could use some serious help landing a woman in his life. T.O. himself has finally woken up too and has hired a matchmaking service to set him up with a Kim Kardashian look-a-like. T.O. hired matchmaker service Kelleher International, which charges anywhere between $15,000 and $150,000 for its services. T.O. better be prepared to write a big check, because we all know that it is expensive to hide a large ego.

What you Missed this Weekend

Since I'm sure you were out enjoying the first taste of fall this weekend, here is a brief rundown of the major sports highlights from the weekend:

MLB:

Roy Oswalt led the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 2 to tie up the series against the San Francisco Giants. Oswalt not only struck out eight batters but he also raced around the bases to score a run. Philly fans had lots to cheer about Sunday, as the Philadelphia Eagles beat out the Atlanta Falcons, Michael Vick's old team, earlier in the day.

NFL:

Big Ben Roethlisberger of the Pittsburgh Steelers returned to his team with a win after being suspended due to some female indiscretions in the offseason.

The Dallas Cowboys, America's team, hit rock bottom by losing to the Minnesota Vikings yesterday. The Cowboys who were a Superbowl favorite have squandered all of their talent with penalties. There is little sympathy for the C'boys who continue to make the same penalties week after week - yes the players are at fault, but shouldn't the coaches do some better parenting too?

NCAA Football:

Wisconsin badgered the formerly No. 1 ranked Ohio State Buckeyes, allowing Oklahoma to take the No. 1 spot in the BCS rankings. Boise State is still hanging around at No. 3 in the rankings, but its championship bowl series chances are not looking good.

Building Business off of Infidelity

Tia Robbins, wife of football player Fred Robbins, recently formed a company called Off the Market Events, aimed at keeping athletes together with their girlfriends and wives. The company plans and hosts couple events and private dinners, with the hope of expanding into couple retreats.

Tia and her husband have been together for many years and are expecting their first child. Throughout their relationship she has had to combat the perception that all athletes cheat, and felt that this company could help steer athlete couples in the right direction.

It will be interesting to see whether Off the Market actually produces any results in the athlete community, but regardless of its success at least now an athlete's wife is profiting off of the infidelity of those cheating men.

Favre's Payback

I never appreciated the humor that men find in those fratty moments when a guy gets hit in the nuts. It all just seemed unfortunate and painful. Yet, here is one time where I truly appreciated a guy falling over in pain from getting hit in his junk. Check out the video of Brett Favre falling to the ground in pain from a football hitting him in his balls. This is a start for the payback Jen Sterger deserves....

VIDEO

NFL Gets a New Hottie

Men think she is HOT HOT HOT and women just want to be her...so both sexes luck out with the NFL's recent signing of Marisa Miller as a new spokesperson. Miller will start promoting events this season, including the NFL's game in London between the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos.

Sacrifice?

What do you think of when you hear the word "sacrifice?" Outside of the religious context, you probably picture a mother caring for a child, or even a mate giving up some closet space for their partner (and the sake of their relationship). Well, for Washington Wizards basketball player Gilbert Arenas, the term "sacrifice" takes on a whole different meaning.

Arenas was fined yesterday for his "sacrifice" for teammate Nick Young. Arenas faked a knee injury in the Wizards Tuesday night game so that Young could get more playing time. Fortunately for the Wizards, the team pulled out a win and Young had 24 points.

Unfortunately, Arenas is stuck paying a fine and the fans who paid good money for their tickets to the game were deprived of seeing star player Arenas play. Who does Arenas think that he is to make the decision as to whom plays? He is not the coach. It is like you deciding to have your intern do you big presentation for you. Think your boss or your client would appreciate that?

Maybe Arenas' repentance mode for bringing serious guns into the Wizards lockerroom last season is prompting him to make "sacrifices," but hopefully he tweaks his understanding of the term before he acts again.

Agent Corruption

In southern universities the Greek rush process is corrupt. Where I went to school, older sorority girls would buy gifts for prospective sisters and use frat boys to promote their sororities, all in violation of school rules and the Panhellenic Council (the governing body of the Greek community) regulations. Although the rush process usually worked out in the end for all prospective freshman girls, it would have been more fun to get some additional Tiffany & Co. jewlery along the way (or at least not watch my friends get these extra special gifts).

Well, the draft process doesn't always work out for college athletes, especially, when the system's corruption overwhelms the true talent of the players. Former agent Jon Luchs recently told Sports Illustrated that he paid college athletes to hopefully sign with him upon entering the pros, which is in clear violation of the NCAA and NFLPA rules. Luchs specifically named players involved in his schemes, some of which admitted to the wrongdoing. He even claims that ESPN analyst, Mel Kiper, Jr., the frat boy in this scenario, assisted other agents in signing some of these athletes and improperly inflated the draft rankings of these athletes. (Kiper adamantly denies any wrongdoing.)

Luchs' allegations reveal serious financial implications to players, agents, universities, and apparently even ESPN analysts. This is not a matter of a corrupt sorority bid, but rather the future career of an athlete. That being said, it is time that the NCAA, NFLPA, NFL, and other leagues and agents start cooperating to monitor the business collectively. Only by sharing information can these amateurs get a fair chance at the pros.

The Next Round: MLB Playoff Picture

The MLB is divided into the American and National Leagues. Each league crowns a champion that then go head to head in the World Series. Well, after last night's Texas Rangers victory, the fields have been set. In the American League, the Texas Rangers will face the NY Yankees, and in the National League, the Philadelphia Phillies are matched up against the San Francisco Giants.

American League Division Series:

The Yankees seem to always be a favorite, but the Rangers are coming with some strong momentum. The Rangers postseason series win against the Tampa Bay Rays is the first in the team's franchise history! And more importantly, it wasn't only the pitching of Cliff Lee that got them there, but also their heads up aggressive base running. (In last night's game, runs were scored from two infield hits!)

National League Division Series:
The pitching is the talk of the 2010 postseason, but the match up between the Phillies and Giants will be the ultimate pitching exhibition. The Phillies have the big three, Halladay, Oswalt, and Hamels, agains the Giants' top four (Lincecum, Cain, Sanchez, Bumgarner). Every game of the series will be a showdown with these lineups. The Phillies are hoping to be the next dynasty - if they win this series they will be the first NL team to reach the World Series three years in a row since the 1940s! (Now mind you, there is much more these Phillies will have to prove in the World Series to truly be a dynasty.)

In Case you got Sleepy Last Night....

Rex Ryan and his Jets beat out Favre and his Vikes 29-20 last night in a torrential downpour in New York. It was all about the defenses until Favre woke up in the second half. He had some beautiful touchdown passes (his first connecting with newly signed Randy Moss), but also some bad snaps and an interception. Favre looked like an inconsistent rookie, but you still loved him, because he went for it all despite the tabloids and the tendonitis in his elbow. Yet, the Jets took the win and march on.

Earlier in the night the SF Giants closed out the series with the Atlanta Braves. The Giants get to move on towards the Pennant, but the night was about honoring Braves manager Bobby Cox who retired after last night's game. Cox managed for 29 years in the majors and had a record 14 straight division titles with the Braves! This is a feat that we will never again see in our lifetime. Cox was a winner, but his emotional farewell spoke to how much more this game meant to him.

Oral Sex Makes Some Hockey Execs Uncomfortable

Last night in the NY Rangers v. NY Islanders match up, Isles defenseman James Wisniewski made an oral sex gesture to Rangers player Sean Avery after Avery sprayed the Isles goalie with the ice. The gesture was clearly seen by all, yet many of the teams' execs ignored the issue in post game press talks.

Islanders coach Scott Gordon dismissed the incident and then walked out of the room. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman said he didn't see the obscene gesture but that he would have one of his VPs look into it.

Wisniewski's gesture was lewd and seen by the viewers, yet for some reason this incident made the NHL execs uncomfrtable and one that they did not want to discuss. Fortunately for them, these men felt comfortable looking the other way, but how about those parents who had to explain what that meant to their kids?

Guinness signs "The Bus"

You probably only know Guinness beer as the one to avoid, because its full of calories. Well Guinness is now making a push to be a major presence in the NFL by signing Pittsburgh Steelers legend Jerome Bettis. Guinness challenges fans to share their most athletic moment of courage and character with the winner sharing a week in Dallas with Bettis at the NFL Superbowl 2011.

Guinness has never been a staple of NFL football due to it European roots and high caloric content. Well, now the company is pushing to make a splash in the money making football arena with a spokesman who is not exactly the specimen of physical fitness. When the GAP needed a fashion icon, they hired Sarah Jessica Parker, and now Guinness needs an NFLer and they got "The Bus!"

Monday Night Football Drama

Tonight the Minnesota Vikings take on the New York Jets. This match up is full of peripheral drama so here is the juice to focus on:

Randy Moss: Randy Moss was recently traded from the New England Patriots to the Minnesota Vikings. Tonight is his first game with his old team (he previously played for the Vikes) and he gets to face an old division rival in the Jets. Moss will be out to prove he still has it in his old age so look to see some spectacular one hand grabs in the end zone.

Brett Favre: Yes, this grandpa QB is full of drama. First, Favre is facing his old team the Jets in this Monday night showdown. Favre's time with the Jets was brief and fairly unenlightening so the Jets will want to put him in his place.

Secondly, Favre is facing the team in the center of his scandal with Jen Sterger. As was recently reported, it is rumored that Favre sent racy messages and photos to a former Jets employee, Sterger. These messages have been released and its hard to deny Favre's voice. In addition, two Jets masseuses have come out accusing Favre of inappropriate behavior. Although nothing has been proven, the NFL is now involved and investigating. Tune in, cause you may just get a peek into the not so perfect side of Favre.

MLB Instant Replay Discussions

This year's MLB postseason is already spurring more talk about implementing instant replay into the game. Last night, two managers were ejected from their respective games after arguing with the umps over calls - Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon and Minnesota Twins manager Ron Gardenhire. Instant replay would minimize arguments, ejections, and most importantly, the risk that a game (or even a series) would be decided on a poor call by an ump. Despite the benefits, many feel that instant replay would effect the integrity game - its like buying a pack of cookies instead of baking them yourself.

Nonetheless, representatives from the MLBPA, the players' union, are trying to set up a meeting between players, umpires, and the Commissioner's office, after the season to discuss the issue. The likelihood of this meeting happening is slim, and in the meantime the MLB can only pray that a postseason game or series is not decided on a blown call.

Another Reason to Learn about Sports

At the hip NYC restaurant The Lion, where you can barely peer into the windows, let alone get a table, Sir Alexander Ferguson, the manager of the popular English soccer team Manchester United, was the center of attention. He was recognized by more people and created more of a stir than Madonna who was eating with Anne Hathaway!!!

So to be "with it" and "in the know" start reading up on your sports figures, because even an Englishman can steal Madonna's spotlight in New York.

Artist Adam Port

Had the cool opportunity to meet Adam Port last night at a charity exhibition of his paintings. Adam is a photorealist who works from photo reference and imagination to create paintings of athletes and entertainers. Adam has painted and collaborated with Michael Jordan, Lebron James, Michael Vick, Eminem, Jay-Z, and many more.

Many of Adam's paintings are a fusion of images from several photographs, which enable the viewer to experience the emotion of the subject in different settings within one piece of work. You can check out his work on his site.

NBAers get Spanked, Literally

You would think that it would take something extreme to rile up 2009 NBA Sportsmanship Award winner, Grant Hill, of the Pheonix Suns. However, last night in a preseason game between the Suns and the Toronto Raptors, Hill flipped his switch when Raptor Reggie Evans slapped his butt just a little too hard. Hill returned the favor by spanking Evans. The two were then ejected from the game.

As idiotic as this appears, it gets worse, because Hill, and Evans, are facing fines for their behavior. Hill's coach even warned him prior to the incident to not get riled up by Evans in order to save Hill some money in a meaningless presseason game.

Its hard to appear as a tough guy when you are ejected for a spanking. Good luck living this joke down.

Postseason No-Hitter

Last night in the first game of the playoff season between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cincinnati Reds, Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay had the second no-hitter ever in MLB postseason play. And the last postseason no-hitter was 50 years ago!

A pitcher has a no-hitter, where the opposing team has no hits in the standard nine-inning game. Although this season has seen a relative abundance of no-hitters, this feat is actually incredibly rare. To put it in perspective, it is more likely to see a Chanel suit or black Manolos on sale at Bergdorfs!

The NHL 2010-2011 Season

This is the time of year where all four major sports leagues play simultaneously. Baseball is kicking off the playoffs today, football is in the heart of its season, basketball is just beginning preseason play, and tomorrow, hockey starts its regular season. Just when you thought that you were in sports overload here comes hockey. Although most would probably admit to letting professional hockey slip out of their sports realm, claiming it not to be a "major" sport, I disagree and implore you to give it a dance. Hockey players are as cute as baseball sluggers, as tough as footballers, and as edgy as NBA ballers. Here is a brief rundown of some teams and players to latch onto this season:

Vancouver Canucks: Probably the most all-around talented team out there with an incredible defense. The Canucks may be the best thing to come from Canada - ever.

Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks are the defending champs and will have a lot to prove this year in terms of holding onto their new found fan base. Smoking hot wingman Patrick Sharp should definitely hold your attention.

Boston Bruins: The Bruins did the incredible, by beating out the NBA's Boston Celtics in playoff ratings last postseason. The Bruins are popular, so if you're into that sort of thing, you will sure have friends to watch their games with.

Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins are stacked with talent (and charisma) with Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Marc-Andre Fleury. Plus, the team is debuting a $321 million arena this season.

Washington Capitals: C-A-P-S CAPS! CAPS! CAPS! There couldn't be an easier cheer and since you now know it, you have no excuse but to be a fan. CAPS fans are hungry this year after a painful post-season loss last year. They are favorites to take the Cup if they can get past the Canucks defense.

Moss Back to the Vikes

One would think that after proving yourself to owners, players, fans, and the league for over ten years that your contract would be secure. Well, unfortunately, that is not the case for seven time pro bowl receiver Randy Moss. Moss was traded this morning from the New England Patriots to the Minnesota Vikings, after failing to catch one ball in the Pats win this past Monday against the Miami Dolphins. (This is the first time as a Pat that Moss failed to have a reception in a game.)

Whether the Pats were disappointed in Moss' performance this past week or just sick of his controversial antics, the team was willing to trade him for a mere third round draft pick. Seems like quite a bargain for the Vikings, who now get to add an all-star receiver to Brett Favre's lineup. It may be Moss who gets the last laugh with the Vikings who boast Favre, Percy Harvin, Adrian Peterson, and now Moss to their starting offense.

Lots of Skin

ESPN Magazine's second annual Body Issue will hit stands Friday, October 8th, with lots of stars baring it all. WNBA star, Diana Taurasi will curl up naked on one of the covers of the magazine - I guess that this is one way to promote a sport that unfortunately no one watches! But should Taurasi be showing her goodies or her athletic skill to promote the WNBA?

Another controversial cover shot of this year's issue is that of Amare Stoudamire, now of the New York Knicks. Isn't he showing a bit much? This one was thankfully airbrushed.

Some of the other athletes featured in this issue are: surfer Kelly Slater, tennis star Venus Williams, soccer goalie Tim Howard, and figure skater Evan Lysacek. Regardless of how you feel about these photos, there is no doubt that these magazines will fly off the shelves.

The Big Monty

Colin Montgomerie, "Monty," coached his European team to a one point win over the US in the 2010 Ryder Cup. The US had a huge comeback on Monday, but in the end the Americans were one tie or win away from taking the title.

Monty had a lot to prove going into this tournament. He had performed well as a Ryder Cup competitor, but had little or no experience as a coach and never quite figured out how to win on the individual international stage. And one must also not forget his presence in the tabloids with a high profile divorce, scandalous courtship with a wealthy widow, and recent infidelity. Moreover, anyone with the name "Monty" is bound to face some scrutiny. Yet, Monty proved us all wrong by serving as a genuine motivator for his team leading them to the title.

Maybe Tiger has something to look forward to --- despite his tabloid nightmare he can one day make coaching a winning Ryder Cup team the greatest moment of his career.

Your Intro to NASCAR

If there is any time to get into NASCAR (yes, NASCAR), this is it. I will admit I am pretty new to the sport myself, but the more I have explored the more intriguing the sport has become. Yes, it is a game about cars, but the truth is that the strategy involved is the most complex of any other sport.

In the seven year history of the Chase, the contenders are closer than ever in the standings. There is a ten race playoff for a title, three of which have already completed. And at this point, there is only 127 points between first place, Jimmie Johnson, and tenth place, Tony Stewart. (Apparently, that isn't a lot.) It is so close that Greg Biffle, who moved into eighth place with a win last Sunday, is a legitimate contender for the title.

No one is clear on why this year has such a close pack. Some say that the cars are more even or that there are just more talented drivers across the board. Yet, whatever the explanation, it is great for NASCAR and a huge reason to keep tabs on the Chase.

You may think of NASCAR as just a bunch of white trash fans drinking Nattys, but you are wrong. The sport is also incredibly technical and comes down to some serious money. I am not pretending to even understand the most basic intricacies of this sport, but one thing I do know, is that if you can make it to the track in California or Charlotte in the upcoming weeks, you are bound to have an incredible time.

Baseball Postseason

Just when you thought baseball season couldn't go on any longer...the playoffs have arrived. If there is any time to tune in, now is it.

The field has been whittled down to eight teams fighting for the title. Here are the match-ups in the first round (which are best of five game series):

American League

New York Yankees v. Minnesota Twins (Wed. 8:30 pm) - The Yanks won the title last year in the first year of a new stadium. This year, the Twins are showing off some new digs - will they have the same luck? The Yankees definitely have the edge in this series, but the Twins' fans will be out in full force trying to bring the win to their new home.

Texas Rangers v. Tampa Bay Rays (Wed. 1:30 pm) - The Rangers made it to the playoffs despite their bankruptcy legal battles. (Nolan Ryan becoming the owner of the team after beating out Mark Cuban with his bid.) Way to go, but despite the heart Ryan gives to his team, the Rays are hungry for the World Series and will be tough to beat.

National League

Cincinnati Reds v. Philadelphia Phillies (Wed. 5:00 pm) - The Phillies are hungry this year and arguably have the best team in baseball. Yet, the Reds will match up really well against the Phillies not only in the same red and white, but also in their pitching and offense. This series will come down to the end with whichever closer can stand out in the matching colors.

Atlanta Braves v. San Francisco Giants (Thurs. 9:30 pm) - The Braves and Giants are hot hot hot, both winning their last regular season game to make the playoffs. The momentum could not come at a better time, but the Braves are going to fall short in the talent department to the Giants.

Now is the time, pick a team and follow them for the next couple weeks. The matchups are sure to be exciting and give you something to root for as a world champion is crowned at the end of the month.

Flashback

Recognize this guy?



Shocking...but it is Tom Brady when he was just a spring chicken trying out for the NFL. Hopefully Gisele doesn't catch sight of this one!

Haynesworth's $21 million Check

In an ESPN interview yesterday, reporter Sara Walsh asked Albert Haynesworth of the Washington Redskins if he hesitated in accepting a $21 million bonus check he received in April 2010 to play the 2010 NFL season with the Redskins. Haynesworth responded by saying that "[y]eah, check sat at my house for a couple weeks before I cashed it. I was weighing my options about what I should do . . . Do you want to take this? Do you want to commit yourself to playing a 3-4 [defense]? Do you want to go somewhere else and try again?" Ultimately, Haynesworth cashed the check, failed to show up to minicamps, then failed a conditioning test at training camp, and sat out of week 3 with an injury.

Does anyone really believe that Haynesworth actually contemplated not cashing the $21 million? No. Haynesworth may be too lazy to go to the bank, but he is not stupid. He took the $21 million and then became a couch potato.

What to Watch This Weekend: College Football

Here are the college football premier matchups for the weekend:

(7) Florida v. (1) Alabama: This game is likely a preview of the SEC championship game. Florida has it out for Alabama, the defending champs, who ruined their chances at a repeat title. Alabama will need to depend on more than their run game to pull this one out. Who will control the deep south?

(9) Stanford v. (4) Oregon: The Stanford Cardinals are going to have to step up their defense to contain the Oregon Ducks. The Ducks like to expand the field and score quick. If the Cards can shrink the room in which the Ducks have to run, then we may know which bird reigns supreme.

(21) Texas v. (8) Oklahoma: Texas needs to make a serious comeback after their puzzling loss to UCLA last week. In this Red River Rivalry, Texas will need to hold onto the ball against Oklahoma's number one turnover defense. Oklahoma definitely has the edge here, but we all know that both teams will still throw some great tailgating parties to make up for the matchup not topping the marquee.