Honorable Mention-Women’s College Basketball: Miami @ Maryland (Thursday 7pm Comcast Center), Duke @ Maryland (Sunday 8pm from Comcast Center live on Comcast SportsNet locally/Fox Sports Net nationally); Boxing: Steve Luevano vs. Juan Manuel Lopez (Saturday 9:45pm from New York live on HBO); High School Basketball: Carver @ Perry Hall (Tuesday 5:15pm), C. Milton Wright @ Aberdeen (Tuesday 6:45pm), Edgewood @ Havre de Grace (Tuesday 6:45pm)

10-Jeff Dunham (Thursday 7:30pm Verizon Center), Cheap Trick (Saturday 8pm Rams Head Live), Cheech & Chong (Saturday 8pm Meyerhoff Symphony Hall), George Strait and Reba McEntire (Friday 7:30pm 1st Mariner Arena)

Yeah, so, these guys are pretty funny……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndaXQeRPO0g[/youtube]

And these guys are ABSOLUTELY one of the most underrated bands in American history….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=th370QmFtk8[/youtube]

And while I have NO interest in seeing Reba, I’ve needed an excuse to post this little piece of SNL brilliance in a blog….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rg85BxArn7M[/youtube]

9-Maryland State Cheer & Dance Championship (Saturday 8am 1st Mariner Arena)

Look, if the people involved in this competition looked like this, this would be Number 1 on the list…

But since I’m PRETTY sure the people are involved are going to look more like this…..

…..so only Ray Bachman will be excited.

And NOT because he’s a pedophile-his girl coaches cheerleaders, so he’s sorta been forced into their world.

You guys are sick.

8-College Football: East West Shrine Game (Saturday 3pm from Orlando live on ESPN2)

OH MY GOD IT’S NFL DRAFT SEASON!!!!!!!!!

Maybe you guys aren’t as big of Draft nerds as I am, but you should be. I mean, what if Blair White completely goes off on Saturday? Could he be a Baltimore Raven next season? Holy crap I’m excited.

Maybe even more excited than when we stopped near Columbus for food Friday on the way to Indianapolis and I managed to find this……

Wow.

7-Golf: Bob Hope Classic (Wednesday-Friday 3pm, Saturday & Sunday 4pm from La Quinta, CA live on Golf Channel)

Oh, Bob Hope…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgUlWIq3b3w[/youtube]

Wait, did I just put Golf on this list? GOLF? There better be a Tiger Woods whore picture coming….

HEY! Here’s Loredana Jolie!!!!

Everything is better now.

6-NBA: Mavericks @ Wizards (Wednesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Heat @ Wizards (Friday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Clippers @ Wizards (Sunday 1pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet)

Since the ‘Zards stink, I have an idea of how they can still make our WNST bus trip to DC entertaining. I think Flip Saunders just channel WWE Champion Sheamus and put Mark Cuban THROUGH A TABLE……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OMotWBNkb3c[/youtube]

Of course, it’s not quite as good as when the Dudley Boyz used to put 80 year old women through tables…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2jgt95pDXuM[/youtube]

5-NHL: Red Wings @ Capitals (Tuesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Capitals @ Penguins (Thursday 7:30pm from Pittsburgh live on Comcast SportsNet and NHL Network), Coyotes @ Capitals (Saturday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet)

Ugh. I don’t even root for the Caps and I feel bad for them for having to go to Pittsburgh. What an awful place.

I mean seriously, what the hell is THIS?!?!?!

Have you heard the story about how people have gone to see the movie Avatar and then gone into depression because our world isn’t like Pandora? Pittsburgh is a lot like that. People go there and immediately don’t want to kill themselves anymore because they realize life isn’t so bad.

And since we’re talking about Avatar, here’s a picture of Zoe Saldana. Don’t say I never did anything for you.

4-Soccer: Team USA vs. Honduras (Saturday 9pm from Carson, CA live on Fox Soccer Channel), Baltimore Blast @ Milwaukee Wave (Saturday 7pm streamed live on B2liveTV.com)

Can things get worse for the Red, White & Blue? First Charlie Davies, then Oguchi Onyewu, now Clint Dempsey? Who the hell is gonna be left to play? Soccer Dog?!?!?

3-Tennis: Australian Open (Tuesday 3am & 9pm, Wednesday 3am & 11pm, Thursday & Friday 3am & 9pm, Saturday 3am & 10pm, Sunday 3am & 7pm, Monday 3:30am & 9pm live on ESPN2; Tuesday-Monday 7pm live on Tennis Channel. All tennis from Melbourne, AUS)

Thank god Andy Roddick is still around, because I was about ready to give up after Maria Sharapova was eliminated.

Of course, my all time favorite Australian Open eye candy remains former champion Mary Pierce…..

And no, it’s NOT just because she was engaged to Roberto Alomar….

2-College Basketball: Longwood @ Maryland (Tuesday 8pm from Comcast Center live on Comcast SportsNet PLUS), NC State @ Maryland (Saturday 6pm from Comcast Center live on ESPN2); Northeastern @ Towson (Wednesday 7pm Towson Center), George Mason @ Towson (Saturday 4pm from Towson Center live on MASN); New Hampshire @ UMBC (Thursday 7pm RAC Arena), Boston U @ UMBC (Sunday 1pm RAC Arena); Delaware State @ Morgan State (Saturday 4pm Hill Field House), UMES @ Morgan State (Monday 7:30pm Hill Field House); UMES @ Coppin State (Saturday 4pm Coppin State Physical Education Complex), Delaware State @ Coppin State (Monday 7:30pm Coppin State Physical Education Complex)

Heh. You said “Longwood.”

Oh, North Carolina State. Remember when your fans were SO EXCITED to see Sidney Lowe replace Herb Sendek? How’s that worked out for you???

You know, other than no longer having a coach who looked like he was from Whoville……

1-NFL Playoffs: AFC Championship Game: Jets @ Colts (Sunday 3:30pm from Indianapolis live on CBS), NFC Championship Game: Vikings @ Saints (Sunday 6:40pm from New Orleans live on FOX)

Unlike the rest of Charm City, I’m really NOT rooting for Rex Ryan, Bart Scott, Jim Leonhard, etc. You see, they play in New York-and that’s where the Yankees play. That being said, I would never……EVER…..root for the Colts. Ever. So I’ll be rooting for both teams to lose.

In the NFC, I actually really still dig Brett Favre, so it’s hard to root against him. BUT, Heather Rothstein roots for the Saints…..

So…..WHO DAT?!?!?!?

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983……

-G

What happened during Dave Trembley’s press conference last night on MASN really is unacceptable, and DT had every right to act accordingly. Some member of the Orioles’ Public Relations staff should have gone to the hallway in an attempt to quiet the people standing there.

It’s a frustrating season for Dave. Would the Orioles be better with a different manager? Probably not MUCH better….they’re just a bad baseball team. But I understand Dave’s frustration.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark thinks Lawrence, Phillips, Cook, Drew last Ravens IN, Ellerbe, Foster, Peerman, E. Jones first Ravens OUT

Drew Forrester says Trembley thought organization ‘lacked professionalism’ after loss

Luke Jones says some Ravens getting ‘final chance’ to make roster vs. Falcons

Bob Haynie wonders if Terps will cover 21 point spread at Cal

Nestor Aparicio says Orioles ‘irrelevant’

Nestor Aparicio says WNST.net hosting “Purple Haze” live blog for Ravens-Falcons

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Sarfate, Jim Johnson battered as Yanks finished off sweep of Birds

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of sweep

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says after night off, Chris Tillman takes hill tomorrow vs. Scott Feldman, Rangers

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says O’s could be without Adam Jones for rest of season

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Markakis tabbed as Roberto Clemente Award nominee

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Sabathia shut down O’s as Bombers finished sweep

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 21,000 saw Yanks polish off sweep at Camden Yards

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Albers trying to improve ‘mental approach’

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Yanks ‘haves’, Birds ‘have nots’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds could have used 20 more pitches from Berken in loss to Yanks

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Birds might regret trading away Gathright

Examiner Jay Trucker humorously wonders how favorite Orioles will celebrate Baltimore Beer Week

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says bullpen couldn’t pick up Jason Berken after solid 5.1 innings

The AP says Reimold homered for Birds in loss

The AP says Pie to play bulk of time in CF with Adam Jones out

New York Post’s George A. King III says Sabathia impressive in picking up 16th win

New York Times’ Tyler Kepner says Phil Hughes earned save with Mariano Rivera getting night off

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says A-Rod’s big night included 2,500th career hit

Newsday’s Erik Boland says Hinske added homer for Yanks in win over O’s

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Johnny Damon went 4-5 with 2 runs for Yanks in win

Bergen Record’s Pete Caldera says Yanks now 7 ½ games up on Red Sox in AL East after win

ESPN.com’s Jerry Crasnick says Dodgers’ acquisition of Sherrill amongst best trades made

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Ambiorix Concepcion hit grand slam as Tides topped Gwinnett

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Tanaka loser as Baysox fell to Binghamton

Frederick Keys Official Site says Sean Gleason loser as Keys fell to Kinston

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Haughian loser as Shorebirds fell to Lake County

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Joshua Dowdy loser as Ironbirds fell to Staten Island

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Montanez tallied 2 hits in Keys’ loss to Captains during rehab assignment

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Zach Britton, Brandon Waring get top season honors from Carolina League

Virginian-Pilot’s Jim Hodges says Rhyne Hughes also homered for Tides in win over Braves

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Kevin Byrne says Harbaugh ‘feels for’ players about to get cut

The Official Site says McGahee listens to ‘down south music’, eats chicken to prepare for games

Atlanta Falcons Official Site’s John Manasso says veterans John Abraham, Todd McClure may not play at all tonight

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says rookie LB Jason Phillips plans to ‘take advantage’ of chance to make plays tonight before Saturday’s cuts

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Justin Harper, Yamon Figurs amongst receivers ‘on bubble’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Kelley Washington has moved ahead of Demetrius Williams on depth chart

The Sun’s Ken Murray says NBC analyst Dungy wonders if Ravens will lose ‘aggressiveness, cohesiveness’ with Rex Ryan gone

The Sun’s Ken Murray says ST coordinator Jerry Rosburg knows kickers need to hit at ’90 percent’ clip

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says bubble players like Talavou feeling ‘tense’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Hauschka can lock up kicking job tonight at Georgia Dome

Frederick News-Post’s Adam Behsudi says DL Brandon McKinney ‘battling’ to make roster

Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s D. Orlando Ledbetter says Flacco will give Falcons CB’s Chris Houston, Brent Grimes ‘decent test’

USA Today’s Sean Leahy says Flacco, Brandon Marshall could have ‘nice long-term marriage’

SI’s Peter King picks Ravens to go 9-7, lose in first round of playoffs (to Steelers)

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco says Ravens will finish 2nd in AFC North, need Flacco to be more of ‘passer’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says teammates let Suggs have it when he returned to practice

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph ‘hopes’ players motivated by being big underdogs to Cal

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph confirmed QB Clay Belton transferred from Miami (Ohio) to Maryland

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says staff doesn’t want players sleeping on flight to Cal, hopes to help team adjust to time difference

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Nick Ferrara ‘kicker of the future’

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Phil Costa not ‘stressed’ by classes

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Ralph would like to have 24’s Jack Bauer on his team

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Don Brown ‘can’t expect too much’ from D-Line

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps face ‘long night’ Saturday flying home from Berkeley

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Maryland staff will begin watching James Madison film on flight back from California

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says DJ Adams playing role of Jahvid Best for Terps in practice

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Terps need to be ‘blue-collar team’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Terps will get Cal’s ‘best shot’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says OT Bruce Campbell is ‘sizable presence’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps will finish 7-5, 4-4 in ACC

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says 28 Terps have never played college football game before

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says 21 points largest dogs Terps have ever been under Fridge

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Terp Kevin Glover to be honored by ACC

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Cal beat writer Okanes reports Best ‘not 100 percent’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Ralph might try similar motivation with Middle Tennessee State

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph has made choice between Nick Ferrara, Mike Barbour; but won’t announce it yet

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Belton wasn’t overly impressive with RedHawks

San Francisco Chronicle’s Ron Kroichick says Syd’Quan Thompson providing leadership for Cal in secondary

Oakland Tribune’s Jonathan Okanes says Cal’s Tyson Alualu, Cameron Jordan ‘bolster’ defense

CBS Sports says Terps 57th best team in country

CBS Sports picks Terps to play in EagleBank Bowl

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich wonders how Don Brown’s defense will match up against Heisman Trophy candidate Jahvid Best

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Glover to be honored at ACC Championship Game

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says prospect Uzomah expects scholarship offer from Terps

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Lamar Young ‘X Factor’ on Terps’ O-Line (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Friedgen reminding players they’re 21 point dogs to Golden Bears (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman/Bear Insider’s Jim McGill break down individual Terps/Bears matchups

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says 2011 prospect Sterling Gibbs to visit College Park (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse says former Terp Feifs joined staff at North Carolina

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids ‘concerned’ with Bucks QB Terrelle Pryor

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo still undecided between Jon Teague, Joe Buckley at kicker

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Dobbs ‘more accomplished passer’ than previous Navy QB’s

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids haven’t played Top 6 team (other than Notre Dame) since beating South Carolina in ‘84

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Jon Teague will handle kickoffs

Columbus Dispatch’s Todd Dallas Lamb torn between OSU fandom, Navy support

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Navy fans need to ‘take it easy’ on QB Ricky Dobbs

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina previews Navy-Ohio State (must subscribe)

Go Mids’ Chris Rohe breaks down individual Mids/Buckeyes matchups (must subscribe)

NAVY LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Midshipmen to host two Fall Ball events this year

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Ambrose knows Tigers jumping in ‘deep end’ by playing Wildcats

Examiner Matthew Schlissel says Northwestern will provide ‘stern test’ for Rob Ambrose’s Tigers Saturday

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Jays open season Saturday at Delaware Valley

The Official Site offers complete JHU/Del Val release (pdf)

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Jays have good shot to win Centennial Conference for first time since ‘05

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra continuing to look for ‘racing immortality’ at Woodward Stakes

Daily Racing Form’s Mary Rampellini says Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird returned to Woolley’s stable at Ruidoso Downs in New Mexico

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Dominic Terry continues to ride Rachel Alexandra in workouts

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Woodward Stakes field includes 2008 Belmont champ Da’Tara

COLLEGE LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says next year’s Championship Game at M&T Bank Stadium moved back to 3:30pm on Memorial Day

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Saturday games in Final Four will now face off at 4pm, 6:30pm

NBA:

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Carmelo Anthony back in town for charity weekend with singer Mario

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I’ll say Falcons 23, Ravens 10 tonight. The backup units haven’t been overly impressive for the Ravens, and I think DJ Shockley and Chris Redman could have a big night.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

I will have my “mock roster” up later today. I feel like I’m heavy on RB’s and D-Line right now. I may have to play around with that.

Let’s see what everyone has to say……

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Harbaugh has ‘thought about’ not playing some starters tomorrow night

Nestor Aparicio says WNST giving away trip to Foxboro

Rex Snider says A-Rod partnered with Elijah Cummings to deliver speech at Milford Mill

Keith Melchior says Hendrickson, Reimold best Birds in August

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Chris Ray loser in relief as Birds fell to Yankees

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jason Berken takes hill tonight vs. Sabathia, Yanks

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Fiorentino, Albers, Sarfate, Castillo joined Birds with rosters expanded

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bergesen shut down for season

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Posada homered Twice as Bombers topped Birds

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Luke Scott’s 3 run bomb not enough as Birds fell to Yanks

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says MacPhail doing right thing with pitchers, but could hurt Trembley in process

The Sun’s Dan Connolly and Arin Gencer say while in town playing Birds, Alex Rodriguez spoke at Milford Mill Academy

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Yankees bullpen held Orioles scoreless, Orioles bullpen struggled vs. Yanks

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says x-rays on Adam Jones’ ankle negative

The Sun says Babe Ruth Museum to honor Brooks Robinson

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Felix Pie homered for Birds in loss

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says O’s expected to add 3 or 4 more players to roster next Monday

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Markakis team’s nominee for Roberto Clemente Award

The AP says David Hernandez gave Birds ‘uneven’ pitching performance, got no decision

New York Post’s George A. King says Swisher, Hinske hit back to back homers for Yanks in win

New York Times’ Tyler Kepner says Yanks survived poor effort from AJ Burnett to win

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says Damaso Marte winner in relief as Yanks topped Birds

Newsday’s Erik Boland says Mariano Rivera pitched 9th inning to record 38th save

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Cano also homered for Yanks in win

Bergen Record’s Pete Caldera says Luke Scott’s homer 57th homer hit to Eutaw Street at OPACY

CBS Sports’ Larry Dobrow has Birds 26th in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Andy Mitchell winner as Tides shut out Charlotte in Game 2 of doubleheader

Norfolk Tides Official Site says David Pauley loser as Tides shut out by Knights in Game 1 of doubleheader

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Steve Johnson winner as Baysox topped Binghamton

Frederick Keys Official Site says Bobby Stevens’ solo HR only scoring as Keys fell to Kinston

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Steven Bumbry homered for Ironbirds in win over Tri-City

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Shane Mathews loser in relief as Lake County topped Shorebirds

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Hobgood loser as Orioles fell to Burlington

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Waring homered for Baysox in win over Mets

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Waring, Matt Angle, Florimon, Brian Parker also called up to Bowie

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Chorye Spoone struggled for Keys in loss to Indians

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Cleo Lemon cut, Ravens roster down to 75

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Derrick Martin amongst players ‘fighting’ for jobs Thursday night at Falcons

The Official Site says Harbaugh thinks injured players like LB Ellerbe “Can’t make the club in the tub”

The Official Site says players to have weekend off after Thursday’s trip to Atlanta

The Sun’s Ken Murray says keeping Hauschka as only kicker could open up roster spot for someone like Talavou, Lawrence, Parmele, or Derrick Martin

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley and Ed Lee says Suggs will test his heel Thursday night at Falcons

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says teammates beat up Suggs upon return to practice

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ed Reed did not practice Tuesday afternoon

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens have 3 QB’s left-Flacco, Troy Smith, John Beck

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Suggs not sure how long he’ll play Thursday night in Georgia Dome

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says CB Chris Carr, OT Jared Gaither, RB’s Matt Lawrence and Cedric Peerman all returned to practice

The AP says Derrick Mason thinks offense will ‘move the chains, score touchdowns’

Atlanta Falcons Official Site says Falcons traded for Tye Hill ahead of Ravens game

Atlanta Journal Constitution’s Mark Bradley says Tye Hill acquisition similar to acquisition of Foxworth last season for Falcons

NFL.com’s Pat Kirwan says Ravens have 21st best QB’s in league

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks thinks Ravens will finish 11-5, win AFC North-all other analysts think Ravens will finish 2nd

Fox Sports’ John Czarnecki says Ravens ‘need’ to trade for Brandon Marshall

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Heap’s ‘health’ will determine success this season

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens have ‘decent’ emergency plan behind Flacco at QB

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Chiefs imploding before opener with Ravens

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says kickers Mike Barbour, Nick Ferrara haven’t been able to separate from each other

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph knows Golden Bears will be looking for ‘revenge’ vs. Terps

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Tedford thinks Terps ‘dangerous’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph counting on ‘youthful arrogance’ from Terps

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says O-Line out to prove inexperience not a problem

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Terps haven’t scored defensive TD since Erin Henderson in ‘06

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Ralph thinks practices aren’t always great after school starts

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Cal has offensive question marks beyond Jahvid Best

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says WR Coach Lee Hull thinks things have ‘finally clicked’ for Adrian Cannon

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says DHB told Cannon to ‘be better’ than him

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Friedgen has been in ‘phenomenal mood’ during summer

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Bears coach Tedford thinks QB Kevin Riley better than last year when he visited College Park

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tedford knows Terps have ‘balance’ offensively

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says kicker will be ‘game-time decision’ for Ralph

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Phil Costa tends to be prepared early

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner will have 70+ family and friends in Berkeley Saturday night

Washington Examiner’s Rick Snider says Chris Turner gets chance to return home to native California

San Francisco Chronicle’s Ray Ratto says Don Brown’s defense will provide ‘interesting first test’ for Cal QB Kevin Riley

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Turner, Scott ‘key’ to Terps’ success

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Bears using last year’s loss as ‘motivation’ vs. Terps

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh profiles freshmen QB’s CJ Brown, Danny O’Brien (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says Ralph doesn’t want to see penalties, turnovers in Berkeley (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Tobias Harris visited College Park again (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Bill The Goat to participate in Capital One All-America Mascot Challenge

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids Brady DeMell, Bobby Doyle, Doug Furman also returning to native Ohio

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says scout team Ohio natives Mike McCarthy, Matthew Kelley, Scott Blasinsky, Josh Dowling-Fitzpatrick also making trip to Ohio Stadium

Columbus Dispatch’s Bob Baptist says Navy DL Chase Burge will have supporters in native Ohio

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tigers have little chance of beating Northwestern

MORGAN BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Bozeman expecting Joe Davis, Anthony Anderson, DeWayne Jackson to make impact replacing Bears’ departures

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Woodward Stakes could be last race for Preakness champ Rachel Alexandra

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

Examiner Jeff Hemelt worries USL-1 expansion could water down USL-2

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Luke Scott’s bomb was impressive last night. A win would have been more impressive.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

You know you’re an Orioles fan if…..

….An opposing pitcher is throwing a perfect game, and you’re completely unmoved

….You’ve braved hostile crowds, name calling, battery throwing, and obscenity chanting from opposing fans……..to enjoy a game at Camden Yards

….You used to enjoy a drink while watching a game, but now the drinks have become a necessity to stomach the game

….At least 15 times a year there’s someone in your team’s starting lineup that you can honestly admit you’ve never heard of

….Your child’s Little League team regularly makes more significant offseason additions than your favorite Major League baseball team

….you’ve looked at the TV, the other had more than 225 runs, and you thought “Yeah, that’s about right.”

….Every Spring Training, “if” becomes your new favorite word (CB in Northeast)

….Your car’s MPG is lower than your favorite pitcher’s ERA (Christopher Edwards)

….You’ve ever paid money to go to a Major League Baseball game and your Designated Hitter bunted (John in Towson)

….“Cash for Clunkers” represents your team’s offseason free agent acquisitions (Tim in Overlea)

….Your favorite team’s colors are black, orange, and shame (Alex Thomas)

….When you hear that “no lead is safe”, you understand that TRULY, no lead is safe (Erienne)

….You miss Aubrey Huff (texter “5750”)

….You still respect Rick Dempsey (Mark in Nottingham)

….when “Orioles Magic” is still something that happens….but only to your wallet (Brandon in Abingdon)

….a 4th place finish sounds fantastic (Ken Phillips)

….you’re not sure if you should be proud or embarrassed when your favorite team adds “Baltimore” to the front of their away uniforms (Intern Jack)

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Ravens CB Foxworth looking forward to seeing ‘old friends’ Thursday night in Atlanta

Drew Forrester says Trembley thought Birds ‘never gave up’ in loss

Drew Forrester offers comical take on Orioles improving

Rex Snider says NBC’s Dateline profiled McNair murder last night

Glenn Clark would like an Ed Reed jersey (from the WNST.net store) for his birthday

Bob Haynie took responsibility for jinxing Pettitte last night

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Markakis broke up Pettitte’s no-hitter in 7th, but Yankees still topped Birds

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says David Hernandez takes hill tonight vs. AJ Burnett, Yanks

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Uehara could return before season ends

Yankees Official Site’s Bryan Hoch says Hairston error in 7th ended Pettitte’s bid for perfect game

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 25,000 fans at Camden Yards saw Bombers top O’s (I won’t even bother to remind you that most of them were New York fans. Oh wait…..)

The Sun’s Dan Connolly and Jeff Zrebiec say Tillman, Matusz will make 2-3 more starts before being shut down for season

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Orioles expected to call up Sarfate, Fiorentino, Albers, Castillo today

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds should be ‘encouraged’ by “Guts”’ performance

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Jeremy Guthrie fell to 9-13 after loss to Yanks last night

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Roberts not sure how Birds finish really that important

The AP says Melvin Mora homered to break up shutout

New York Post’s George A. King III says Mariano Rivera pitched 9th for 37th save

New York Times’ Tyler Kepner says Nick Swisher homered for Yanks in win

New York Daily News’ Mark Feinsand says skipper Girardi thought Pettitte pitched ‘great game’ despite losing no hitter

Newsday’s Erik Boland says Cano added 2 run double in win

Newark Star-Ledger’s Marc Carig says Pettitte picked up 16th career win at OPACY, 26th career win over Birds

Bergen Record’s Pete Caldera says A-Rod sat out Yankees’ win Monday night

Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan has Birds 26th in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Oullette, Deza took losses as Reading swept Bowie in doubleheader

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Bordes winner as Shorebirds topped Lake County

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Kantakevich winner as Ironbirds topped Tri-City

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Mechaw winner as Orioles topped Burlington

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Shorebirds’ Ronnie Welty, Joe Mahoney hit back to back homers in win over Captains

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Shorebirds’ Welty honored by South Atlantic League

Laurel Leader’s David Driver says new Keys pitcher Brett Jacobson has found adjustment from Tigers organization ‘difficult’

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Keys’ Caleb Joseph out of ‘nightmare’ 0-28 slump

Washington Times’ Jay LeBlanc says Arrieta, Britton, Erbe organization’s top prospects

Virginian-Pilot says Tides, Charlotte rained out last night; to play doubleheader today

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Rolle will spend first 6 weeks of season on PUP list

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ray Lewis practiced after elbow scare in Carolina; LB Ellerbe, DT Gregg, OL Chester, OT Rodgers all returned to practice

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says despite miss vs. Panthers, Harbaugh still gives Hauschka ‘edge’ in kicking competition

Falcons Official Site’s John Manasso says RB Jerious Norwood ‘most likely’ won’t play Thursday, S William Moore definitely won’t

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Brendon Ayanbadejo excels not only on football field, but also in other areas of life

The Sun’s Edward Lee and Jamison Hensley say Suggs returned to practice Monday

The Sun’s Mike Preston says organization hoping Heap can return to previous form

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Kelly Gregg returned to practice yesterday, ‘intends’ to play vs. Falcons

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Chris Carr, Oniel Cousins also did not practice

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Harbaugh not particularly hopeful about Mark Clayton playing Thursday night

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Rolle told Ozzie Newsome he intended to play this season

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says QB Drew Willy, WR’s Bradon Godfrey, Biren Ealy Ravens’ first cuts

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Billick’s book not about Ravens

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Heap again looking like ‘playmaker’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson reports Harbaugh said Rolle won’t play if playing presents ‘any risk at all’

The AP says teammate, friend Derrick Mason thinks ‘Samari just wants to play’

Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Orlando Ledbetter says Falcons coach Mike Smith confirms reserves will play majority of Ravens game

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Suggs could use work Thursday night

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s open in Berkeley

The Official Site offers complete Terrapins/Golden Bears release (pdf)

Cal Official Site previews Saturday’s opener vs. Maryland

Cal Official Site offers complete Bears/Terps release (pdf)

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks ‘ignorance is bliss’ when it comes to young players

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says young O-Linemen Gonnella, Pinegar have each played before

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Maryland commit Devin Burns opened ’09 season with big game

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Adrian Cannon became different player after making big TD catch in Humanitarian Bowl

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says O-Line, TE, Kicker likely Terps’ ‘biggest concerns’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Don Brown’s defense made more than 50 picks in camp

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph holds responsibility of program ‘CEO’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Phil Costa, Chris Turner, Nolan Carroll, Adrian Moten ‘sworn in’ as team captains

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps may wait until gametime to pick kicker between Mike Barbour, Nick Ferrara

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says players happy to be big underdogs against Pac 10 foe

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terrell Skinner knows Adrian Cannon ‘great player’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps won only previous meeting with Cal (last year)

San Francisco Chronicle’s Ron Kroichick says Cal returns 8 starters from ’08 team

Oakland Tribune’s Jonathan Okanes says RB Jahvid Best beginning Heisman Trophy campaign Saturday night

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says O-Line ‘most unsettled’ position for Terps

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Bishop McNamara WR prospect Brandon Coleman has other schools higher on list than Maryland (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says DL Ivey drawing comparisons to former Terp Randy Starks (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Isaiah Miles and John Crowder amongst Baltimore recruits Terps pursuing (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASEBALL:

Washington Times’ Ben Goessling says former Terp Justin Maxwell may be getting last shot with Nationals

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s opener at Ohio State

The Official Site offers complete Buckeyes/Midshipmen release (pdf)

Ohio State Official Site previews Saturday’s opener vs. Navy

Ohio State Official Site offers complete Bucks/Mids release

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Ohio State, Wake Forest, Pitt, Notre Dame make Mids’ schedule ‘most challenging’ Niumatalolo has seen

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says kickers Jon Teague, Joe Buckley will both travel to Columbus with Mids

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says center DeMell to make college debut Saturday at Ohio Stadium

Columbus Dispatch’s Rob Oller says Navy seniors dealing with futures beyond football this week

Scout.com names Pospisil, Tuani, Middleton, Blake Carter to all-service academy defensive team

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s opener at Northwestern

The Official Site offers complete Tigers/Wildcats release (pdf)

Northwestern Official Site previews Saturday’s opener vs. Tigers

Northwestern Official Site offers complete Wildcats/Tigers release (pdf)

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site offers complete preview of 2009 Blue Jays

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Borel to mount Derby winner Mine That Bird again in Goodwood Stakes, Breeders’ Cup Classic

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Belmont, Travers winner Summer Bird in good position to win 3 year old Championship

Daily Racing Form’s Mike Welsch says Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra put in final breeze at Saratoga before Saturday’s Woodward Stakes

Thoroughbred Times’ Ed DeRosa says trainer Woolley likes Borel because rider ‘knows’ Kentucky Derby winner

Thoroughbred Times’ Phil Janack says trainer Steve Asmussen says Rachel Alexandra ‘happy, loose’ in workout

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

Examiner Jeff Hemelt says Brian Rowland, Val Teixeira, Paul Robson Palace players most honored by USL-2 this season

BALTIMORE COLTS:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman ‘catches up with’ former Colt Bob Vogel

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Gotta get to Owings Mills today. Add your own analysis.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

I cannot confirm the Philadelphia Daily News story that says the Ravens have been interested in any WR’s that might be freed up by the Eagles; but I CAN say that the story is COMPLETELY logical.

Guys like Hank Baskett or Reggie Brown would already come in with familiarity towards John Harbaugh, and a likely willingness to contribute on special teams.

The Ravens DON’T have a 5th receiver on this roster right now. Justin Harper just isn’t consistent enough. Jayson Foster is too small. Yamon Figurs is not good enough without contributing as a returner.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Clayton told him he thought he’d be ready for Saturday’s game in Charlotte

Luke Jones wonders if Samari Rolle’s career may be over

Drew Forrester says Reimold should have tried to make play on Marte’s HR in 9th

Bob Haynie says Terps have 14 commitments now after adding PA O-Lineman

G.Q. says Timonium to host racing on 7 of 11 days during Maryland State Fair

Michael Schilling credits Sun for taking Orioles baserunning to task

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jim Johnson blows game in 9th as Birds fell to Indians

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Adam Jones ‘close’ to returning

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Robby Hammock, Sarfate, Uehara amongst likely September 1 roster additions

Indians Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Andy Marte homered in 9th to lift Tribe past O’s

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says home run ruined solid effort from David Hernandez

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Trembley believes Jones ‘close’ to returning

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Baines to join Steve Barber, Cal Ripken Sr. & Jr. as Maryland natives in Orioles Hall

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Danys Baez also had bullpen issues after looking ‘unhittable’

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says nearly 14,000 at Camden Yards saw Birds blow game late

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Harold Baines will be inducted into Orioles Hall of Fame this weekend

The AP says Mora, Wieters homered for Birds in loss

Cleveland Plain Dealer’s Paul Hoynes says Tribe’s rally got Cumberland native Laffey off the hook

Akron Beacon Journal’s Sheldon Ocker says Matt LaPorta had key hit before Marte hit winning HR

SI’s Ted Keith has Birds 29th in power rankings

CBS Sports’ Scott Miller says Trembley’s future in Baltimore ‘uncertain’

ESPN.com’s Jayson Stark says Bergesen, Reimold still alive in race for AL Rookie of the Year

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Bob McCrory loser as Durham’s Chris Richard homered in 9th to top Tides

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Freddy Deza loser as Bowie fell to Akron

Frederick Keys Official Site says Keys eliminated from playoff contention with loss to Kinston, Wilmington’s win

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says McCurry threw 6 shutout innings as Shorebirds blanked Lake County

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Joshua Dowdy loser in relief as Aberdeen blanked by Vermont

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Fabrizio loser as Orioles fell to Danville

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Tides’ Gathright went 2-3 with walk, stolen base in loss to Durham

Examiner Jay Trucker says Prince George’s Stadium offers good beer selection, opportunities for kids

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Shorebirds’ 6’7”, 255 pound 1B Joe Mahoney has 29 stolen bases

Frederick News-Post says Sean Gleason took loss as Frederick fell to Kinston

Virginian-Pilot says Chris George stellar in Harbor Park debut, but Bulls beat Tides’ bullpen late

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens happy to be back in Owings Mills

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh plans to give all return reps to Carr, Webb

The Official Site says Harbaugh confirms starters will at least go whole first half vs. Carolina

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Bart Scott didn’t intend to ‘disrespect’ John Harbaugh with post-game quotes Monday night

The Sun’s Ken Murray and Edward Lee say Mark Clayton won’t play Saturday at Panthers

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Figurs, Foster likely out of running for return job

The Sun’s Michael Sragow says “Blind Side” director John Lee Hancock realized Oher’s story movie-worthy 50 pages into Michael Lewis’ book

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Frank Walker joined Terrell Suggs in wearing anti-Steelers gear

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Clayton feels no pain in hamstring

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Mark Clayton could return for Atlanta game next Thursday

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Oher will be ‘tested’ by Carolina’s Peppers

ESPN.com’s James Walker says former Raven Boller played well for Rams in win over Bengals

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Cam Cameron always adding ‘new wrinkles’ to Ravens offense

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Torrey Smith’s kick return TD amongst highlights of Thursday night’s scrimmage at Byrd Stadium

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thinks Scott, Meggett both ‘Number 1 tailbacks’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says WR’s Adrian Cannon, Torrey Smith, Ronnie Tyler, Kevin Dorsey, Quintin McCree, LaQuan Williams, Kerry Boykins, Tony Logan, Emani Lee-Odai to travel to Berkley

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says D.J. Adams lead Terps in rushing in scrimmage with 59 yards

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says James Franklin not thrilled with TE play

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Anthony Green returned INT 71 yards for TD in scrimmage

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps have no current plans to play game at FedEx Field (which will host Boise State-Virginia Tech and Penn State-Indiana in coming years)

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Abington Heights (PA) O-Lineman Conaboy commit to Terps

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says freshmen QB’s Danny O’Brien, C.J. Brown ‘impressing’ in camp

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Travis Ivey ‘not concerned’ about team’s D-Line depth

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Ferrara, Barbour each made long kicks in Thursday night’s scrimmage

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says camp has been described as fun, relaxed

Washington Post’s Mike Wise says Ralph has weight problems under ‘control’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks O’Brien ‘grasps offense’ better than Brown

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Justin Lewis, Lamar Young, Bennett Fulper to all get playing time on O-Line

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Turner ‘mature’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Carl Russell, Jared Harrell, Derek Drummond will also rotate in at DE

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell wonders if Ralph will still be in good mood next week as Terps prepare for Cal

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says freshman Isaiah Ross could make impact for Terps at DE

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Coach Lempa thinks safeties McCullough, Tate ‘smart’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Travis Baltz ‘sharp’ in scrimmage

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Terp Josh Portis lost first start with California (PA)

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Adrian Cannon was leading receiver in scrimmage

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Bruce Campbell likely to be highest Terp selected in 2010 NFL Draft

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Sule, Wujciak forced turnovers in scrimmage

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Gary Douglas tied with Morgan Green for 3rd RB spot (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ralph particularly happy about Terps in camp (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Deege Galt comfortable at ‘anchor end’ in Don Brown’s defense (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Jeff Ermann says Conaboy picked Terps over Pitt, Rutgers, Minnesota, Temple, West Virginia, Syracuse, Vanderbilt, New Mexico State, Illinois, Akron, UConn, Michigan State, Marshall, Buffalo, Eastern Michigan, and Oregon

Turtle Sports Report’s Allen Wallace says Conaboy ’99 percent committed’ to Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terps interested in St. Anthony (Jersey City) prospect Devon Collier (must subscribe)

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Rob Ambrose, senior players spoke at kickoff luncheon on campus Wednesday

The Official Site says Tiger players helped students move in across campus

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says tickets available for Sept. 12 opener at Akron

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Slotback Marcus Curry returning to ‘form’ after early health issues

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says coaches getting after new center DeMell

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says John Angelo doesn’t remember hit that knocked him out of Wake Forest game last season

Go Mids’ Matt Zemek says fans shouldn’t worry if Midshipmen struggle to open season

COPPIN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Eagles to open new arena Dec. 5 vs. Morgan

UMES BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Hawks players helped students move in on Princess Anne campus

MCDANIEL FOOTBALL:

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says 6’8” TE Woody Butler ‘freak’ on offense for Terror

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Belmont winner Summer Bird could take step towards Eclipse Award with win in Travers Stakes

Thoroughbred Times’ Phil Janack says Quality Road, Kensei getting more hype at Shadwell Travers than Summer Bird

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS:

The Sun’s Childs Walker and Kevin Van Valkenburg say Binky Jones to headline Shogun Fights card at First Mariner Arena in October

BALTIMORE COLTS:

The Sun’s David Zurawik says Levinson’s documentary on Colts marching band to premiere on ESPN Oct. 13

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Want a pick for tomorrow night? Panthers 20, Ravens 17. But I might just be picking the Panthers because teams that go 4-0 in the preseason don’t have a great history of Super Bowl success.

-It was funny to watch the meltdown of fans on Facebook and Twitter last night after the Indians beat the Orioles. Mostly because the only thing I could think was “are you surprised?”

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

At this point, I’d say Terrell Suggs’ injury is a concern. The guys aren’t at Training Camp anymore; they’re back in their own beds and at the castle in Westminster, so there’s no reason for Sizzle to be trying to get out of practice at this point.

I’d be concerned. And “monitoring.”

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester wishes he could be ‘front running’ Orioles fan

Glenn Clark says Derrick Mason was again wearing #9 jersey to honor McNair

Rex Snider looks back on Sunday Morning Blitz

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Guthrie strong as Birds avoided sweep in Minnesota

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says David Hernandez takes mound tonight vs. Aaron Laffey, Indians

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley accepts some blame, says some falls on players for baserunning mistakes

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Matusz trying to make game ‘slow down’

Minnesota Twins Official Site’s Tyler Mason says Morneau’s RBI double only run scored by Twins in loss to Birds

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Pie homered for O’s in win over Twinkies

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Tribe comes to Baltimore very different than team that began season in Cleveland

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Trembley, Juan Samuel think players should be more ‘accountable’

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Chris Ray ‘regained form’ by changing mechanics

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says 4-5 road trip ‘respectable’ for Orioles (I guess)

The AP says Moeller doubled, singled, walked in win at Metrodome

Minneapolis Star-Tribune’s Joe Christensen says Nick Blackburn struggled in loss to Birds

St. Paul Pioneer Press’ Brian Murphy says Alexi Casilla made two spectacular plays at 2B in Twins’ loss

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says David Pauley loser as Tides fell to Durham

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Steve Johnson, Eddie Gamboa winners as Baysox swept doubleheader from Akron

Frederick Keys Official Site says Chorye Spoone went into 5th, earned no decision as Keys fell to Kinston

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Travis Keating loser in relief as Shorebirds fell to Lake County

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Jacob Smith loser in relied as Ironbirds fell to Lowell

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Hobgood worked into 5th, received no decision as Bluefield topped Princeton

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Ouellette finished off Game 2 of doubleheader for 5th save as Baysox swept Aeros

Examiner Jay Trucker took trip to Prince George’s Stadium to see Baysox

Virginian-Pilot’s Jim Hodges says Rhyne Hughes hit first homer as Tide in loss to Bulls

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Mark Clayton returned to practice field Wednesday

The Official Site says Harbaugh believes LJ Smith’s hamstring pull ‘a concern’

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Birk proud of Harvard background

The Sun’s Edward Lee and Jamison Hensley say LJ Smith, Kelly Gregg ‘questionable’ for remainder of preseason

The Sun’s Edward Lee says KJ Gerard chopped off dreadlocks

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks Harbaugh should stop throwing around Stover’s name with Hauschka, Gano

The Sun’s Edward Lee says trip to Charlotte quasi homecoming for Hauschka

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Kelley Washington learned better ‘work ethic’ in New England

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Chris Chester also didn’t practice

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens don’t have to make first roster cuts until Sept. 1

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh didn’t have much to say about Bart Scott’s comments

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says LB’s J. McClain, Gooden ‘learning fast’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Oniel Cousins (ankle) expects to be ready for trip to Carolina

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens ‘pretty much ignored’ trash talk with Jets

ESPN.com’s James Walker says ‘chemistry’ still there between Flacco, Mason

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Tommy Galt impressive during Wednesday’s practice

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Gloria, Friedgen family don’t talk to Ralph after losses

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Ralph thinks safety Kenny Tate ‘a force’

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Gonnella will see ‘a lot of snaps’ in ‘09

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says James Franklin believes Terps made ‘mistake’ by not tabbing Chris Turner as starting QB in ‘08

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Fulper ‘making strides’ after switching positions

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Kenny Tate considered move back to WR during offseason

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph hoping to have Terps go 4 quarters in Thursday’s scrimmage

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Demetrius Hartsfield returns home when Terps play NC State, Duke this season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens reports ST Coordinator Bankins says Terps giving Barbour chance to ‘lose’ kicking job

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Brandon Jackson-Mills, Thomas Wright amongst Terps on cut line to make travel team

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Lamar Young has been battling shoulder injury

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph has history of splitting carries in recent years

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Ralph thinks Bruce Campbell needs to improve at run-blocking

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says WR LaQuan Williams considered quitting football last season (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Phil Costa has become ‘offensive leader’ for Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ralph really finalizing last 3 spots on roster for travel to Cal next week (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman says Darin Drakeford changed eating habits to get into better shape

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Frese interested in West Virginia prospect Whitney Bays (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The AP says Ohio State wants fans to respect Midshipmen when they visit Columbus

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says QB Kriss Proctor to miss 4 weeks after leg surgery

CBS Sports’ Dennis Dodd says Navy ‘could be’ best of independent programs, including Notre Dame

SWIMMING:

The Sun says Phelps headlines roster for USA Swimming national team

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Summer Bird trainer Tim Ice ‘can’t feel good about’ Woolley having to pull Mine That Bird from Travers Stakes

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Goodwood Stakes at Santa Anita eyed as next race for Derby winner Mine That Bird

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Quality Road morning line favorite for Shadwell Travers

The Sun says Maryland State Fair session opens tomorrow in Timonium

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-The Birds are back home tonight! Who’s excited?!?!?!

No?

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

The “Matt Stover factor” is overrated. The Ravens are committed to having one of these guys kick against the Chiefs on September 13.

Matt Stover might well end up kicking again later this season. But it will come only if the Hauschka-Gano winner (likely Hauschka at this point) gets hurt or proves incapable of kicking.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Terps “open” season with Nov. 3 exhibition against Indiana (PA)

Bob Haynie can’t fathom anyone thinking Troy Smith > Flacco

Glenn Clark says Ravens-Panthers highlights non-baseball week

Paul Hoke doesn’t think Brian Roberts will ever play meaningful game at Camden Yards

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley didn’t think Orioles ‘gave it away’ in loss to Twins

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jeremy Guthrie takes hill tonight vs. Nick Blackburn looking to avoid sweep

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Adam Jones will miss rest of series in Minnesota

Twins Official Site’s Tyler Mason says Delmon Young provided walk-off single to give Twins win over O’s

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Mickolio loser for Birds in relief

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says MacPhail plans on meeting with Trembley, Kranitz to limit innings for young starters

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says loss to Twins similar to others Birds have suffered at Metrodome before

The AP says Michael Aubrey doubled, tallied 3 RBI for Orioles in loss to Twins

Minneapolis Star-Tribune’s La Velle Neal says Twins now tied for 2nd in AL Central after win

St. Paul Pioneer Press’ Brian Murphy says Michael Cuddyer scored winning run for Twinkies

CBS Sports’ Larry Dobrow has Birds 27th in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Orioles Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Josh Bell, Brandon Erbe, Brandon Snyder amongst Birds headed to Arizona Fall League

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Jeff Fiorentino tripled, homered for Tides in win over Rochester

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Hoey loser in relief as Baysox fell to Akron

Frederick Keys Official Site says Zach Britton strong in win over Kinston

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Salberg winner as Shorebirds topped Lake County

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Kantakevich loser as Lowell topped Ironbirds

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Gary Helmick scored twice, but Orioles fell to Pulaski

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Andy Mitchell picked up win in relief as Tides topped Red Wings

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Ryohei Tanaka, Matt Angle, Brandon Waring also headed to AFL

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Keys’ Rowell ‘stuck’ in attempt to make it to Baltimore

Frederick News-Post says Crancer homered for Keys in win

Virginian-Pilot says Freddy Guzman had 3 hits for Tides in win

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Frank Walker owned up to ‘rough’ performance vs. Jets

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Hauschka may have won kicking competition in 2nd quarter vs. Jets Monday night

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ravens didn’t show themselves to be Super Bowl shoe-in

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Lardarius Webb ‘redeemed himself’ with late play on 2 point conversion in win over Jets

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh still has ‘confidence’ in Walker

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Stover ‘looming’ over competition between Gano, Hauschka

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Ngata showed ‘versatility’ with INT return for TD

The AP’s David Ginsburg says Greg Mattison not taking himself too seriously as DC

NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora picks Ravens to win Wild Card again

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Rex Ryan picked on his former player Frank Walker in 2nd half

ESPN.com’s James Walker doesn’t believe Ravens would be interested in Lorenzo Neal

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Harbaugh throws Stover’s name around with Rosburg to fire up kickers

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Ralph has given rest to players like Wujciak, Cory Jackson, Phil Costa during fall camp

The Official Site says Virginia Tech game already sold out

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Chris Turner views Gloria Friedgen as ‘permanent team mom’

The AP says former Terp Heyer Skins’ ‘answer’ at RT

The Diamondback has Terps 9th in ACC power rankings

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Ralph claims Meggett challenging Da’Rel Scott as top RB

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says safety Kenny Tate ‘turning heads’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell thinks Terps will finish somewhere between 5-7 and 7-5

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Nick Wallace appears to be out of kicking competition

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says redshirt freshman LB Demetrius Hartsfield ‘ready to contribute’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Uncle J.D. Maarleveld helped prepare Gonnella for College Park

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Meggett dropped weight, improved speed

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says tickets for game against Hokies still available via season ticket, suite packages

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph happy with Fulper’s move from center to guard

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Richard Taylor has been with Terps longest

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says suites still available at Byrd Stadium

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says DeMatha grad Tate having ‘sensational’ Camp

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich surprised VT game sold out after Hokies crushed Terps in Blacksburg last year

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps have 15 commits, no ESPNU top 150 guys

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says scrimmage didn’t help settle Mike Barbour-Nick Ferrara kicking competition (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Don Brown ‘pleased’ with Nolan Carroll, Anthony Wiseman (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says DL Travis Ivey returned to practice (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Gary ‘looks forward to’ schedule featuring Indiana, Villanova, Duke, UNC, Maui Invitational

The Sun says Terps’ schedule doesn’t include visit to Carolina

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Greivis’ Senior Night will be against Duke

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terrapins have 5 regular season games scheduled with no TV as of yet

The Diamondback says Terps open season Nov. 13 against Charleston Southern

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Terps open ACC play January 10 vs. Florida State at Comcast Center

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps to face 12 teams who went to postseason last year

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps have 5 9pm ACC tip-offs

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps on ESPN 3 times this season (Duke 14 times)

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps should be no worse than 11-3 entering ACC play

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says DeMell remains starting center

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says unpredictable triple option should benefit Mids vs. Ohio State

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Josh Thornton excelled for Tigers in tour of Canada

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

The Sun says former Blue Jay Conor Ford hired at Drexel

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Derby winner Mine That Bird ‘uncertain’ for Travers Stakes

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says after missing Triple Crown series, Quality Road again ‘striking fear’ into opponents going into Shadwell Travers

Thoroughbred Times’ Phil Janack says trainer Woolley thought Mine That Bird looked ‘pretty sharp’ in Tuesday workout at Saratoga

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Harada called up to parent club in London

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says former Morgan State Bear Joe Taylor returns to Mariners

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I don’t see the Ravens re-considering Lorenzo Neal. But I’m not opposed to it.

-Maryland’s hoops schedule is very winnable. Losing more than 2 games before the ACC season begins is basically inconceivable.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

You get props……

1-Brian Roberts, John Danks, and Nolan Reimold

In other Orioles news, I was sitting at the Maryland football scrimmage Sunday when I found out that Adam Jones had left the game against the White Sox early. WNST’s Luke Jones asked me “Why?” and I responded “Because he had something better to do?”

If you don’t think that’s funny; you take yourself way too seriously. I’m looking at you, Melewski. Looking forward to MASN’s coverage of Maryland football this season. Also, the Maryland Cornhole Cup was rescheduled…..so Team Gator Bites has another chance to dominate. September 19th pal. You and I can run through the competition in Annapolis.

2-Roger Federer and Elena Dementieva

Apparently this girl won a tennis tournament this weekend………

……..like it matters.

3-Shaun Hill and Derek Anderson

Maybe former Terps QB Shaun Hill should actually be on the “Lucky” list seeing as how he didn’t even have to PLAY and he locked up the starting QB job with the 49ers.

Of course, starting QB for the 49ers at this point has about as much prestige as being the starting QB for Glen Burnie High School.

That’s right Forrester; the Gophers suck.

Also, Derek Anderson may well have taken a step to securing the Browns’ starting QB job…..by somehow being not quite as awful as this human being……

4-David Pauley, Ryohei Tanaka, Brandon Waring and Joel Palanco

Elsewhere in Orioles minor league action this weekend; the Aberdeen Ironbirds were no-hit Sunday by Brooklyn’s Brandon Moore.

Which goes to show you that this organization is REALLY committed to getting you prepared for what life is going to be like once you come to Baltimore…….

5-Michelle Wie, Ryan Moore and Mike Reid

I want to thank WNST.net blogger BJ Appel, former Harford Community College golf standout Chris Appel, and their lovely family for hosting our fantasy football draft Saturday night. They supplied Gatorade, crabs, cookie bars, and I added orange drink and Doritos to the party. It couldn’t have been lovelier.

But it was slightly awkward when we walked downstairs and Chris was watching something that is apparently called “The Solheim Cup.”

I’m not entirely certain of what “The Solheim Cup” is, but I do know that no matter how many participants in the event looked like this……

…..this was not event created with heterosexual men in mind.

6-Kyle Busch and Dario Franchitti

Kyle Busch swept the NASCAR races at Bristol this season; which made Rex Snider interested………and no one else.

Speaking of sports no one is watching, my friend Dave Carey (formerly of the Baltimore Examiner) passed along this WNBA video game commercial he saw recently…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FGI7R0u3TQ[/youtube]

…..which is good because I DO like layups, defense, jump shots, and layups!

7-Scott Feldman, Jack Cust, Michael Cuddyer, Chris Carpenter, Ryan Garko, Carlos Pena, Kevin Youkilis, Charlie Haeger, Roy Oswalt, Clayton Richard, Ryan Raburn and Hideki Matsui

Elsewhere in the world of baseball, Jason Giambi will reportedly join the Colorado Rockies.

Remember when SI called Giambi “the new face of baseball?”

I legitimately believe Otis Nixon would have been a better nominee for the award…..

(Editor’s note: Alex Cole may have been the unluckiest man in baseball card history.)

8-Jozy Altidore and Wayne Rooney

If you think I knew that the Premier League had begun, you’d be wrong. But I do know that since losing the UEFA Champions League to Fox; ESPN has invested a great deal in all sorts of other soccer. I’m all for this of course; as there’s nothing better than waking up after an evening of 13-15 hundred Clipper City Ales and having live sports on TV.

Of course, I guess whenever you wake up at 2pm there’s normally live sports on TV; but Premier League soccer is about 1,000,000,000,000,000 times better than waking up to Tom Davis and Phil Wood taking about the Nationals on my TV.

“Tom, let’s talk about the 1952 World Series”

Christ. Melewski and these guys deserve each other. I’m not completely certain, but I think they should re-name MASN “OWGHNIWPRGACAN” (Old White Guys Have No Idea What People Really Give A Crap About Network.)

9-Allyson Felix, Sanya Richards, Debbie Dunn and Lashinda Demus; Angelo Taylor, Jeremy Wariner, Kerron Clement and LaShawn Merritt and Brittney Reese

In other Track and Field news……..Usain Bolt is really fast?

Did Usain Bolt REALLY get a piece of the Berlin Wall? I’ve officially found a gift more useless than the copy of David Cassidy’s greatest hits I gave Josiah Potter for his 16th birthday.

Also, did we ever figure out if that one track chick was a dude or not? This has been the most distressing problem I’ve faced since I ran out of clean underwear last week and didn’t have time to do laundry before having to go back to Training Camp.

You expect me to let you know how I solved this problem; but I’m pretty sure you already know.

10-Tim Tebow

I’m not REALLY impressed by the fact that Florida was selected preseason number 1 in the AP poll; I’m just contractually obligated to remind you of how great Tim Tebow is at least once a blog.

Look man, the first time you go to the Philippines and perform circumcisions; I’ll blog about you. In the meantime, have another sip of your Zima and remember that Lord Tebow is greater than you.

11-McDaniel College

Successfully hosted roughly 100,000 Ravens fans this year during Training Camp. Maybe the most remarkable statistic is that I only nearly fought with ONE member of the S.A.F.E. management team this year.

It’s not that I’m suggesting that Training Camp should move from Westminster. But if it were to, maybe THIS could be an acceptable alternative?

12-Luke Ramirez and Andy Rios, Nicholas Smisek and Steven Cardone

I kinda think the whole Little League World Series concept is weird. But I know that if I were to start a Little League team, Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez would be my first pick…..

And while we’re here; let’s just go ahead and get this out of the way…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr5lHZQz-Z4[/youtube]

How can baseball be so awful yet The Sandlot be the greatest movie of all time???

13-Caleb Porzel and Eric Franklin

I couldn’t help but notice how much better the running backs were than the quarterbacks at Sunday’s Maryland Football Scrimmage.

That may or may not be a good thing. But Porzel looks like he’s going to be special.

I do have one suggestion for the Terps’ freshman running back. No matter how great you get, stay away from this woman….

Look man, I know. I’ve lost hours on that ass myself, and I’ve never even met her. But it has ruined greater men. Just trust me.

14-Third Eye Blind

I picked up a copy of their new CD “Ursa Major”, selected Track 4 and permanently selected “repeat”……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3YDuvNnu1MM[/youtube]

I dare you to tell me about why you like Weezer. Christ.

15-The K-Series and Magic Hat Wacko

It is really difficult for me to explain what my Friday night was like. But I CAN tell you that it involved a few hundred Wackos and a house where they had an industrial sized oven on the back patio. I affectionately referred to it as “The K Series.”

Apparently I was at a house in Jarrettsville……which may or may not actually be in America. An ex of mine (The Artist Formerly Known as the Luckiest Dang Gal on the Face of the Planet?) had a party at a house that was so bizarre it isn’t even possible for me to really capture the awesomeness of the place.

It had a beach.
It had a strange greenhouse structure.
It had wires hanging everywhere.
It had a random man holding an umbrella.

If this was your house, please don’t be offended. I really found your place to be very awesome. And really freaking weird.

You got lucky…….

1-Eric Bruntlett

Yeah, cause sometimes THIS just happens…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niz0VPpSxok[/youtube]

This would be like me accidentally wandering into Mother’s in Federal Hill and walking out with this…..

Speaking of which, have you heard that the guy who made “The Wrestler” is making a movie in which Mila Kunis has “aggressive sex” with Natalie Portman?

I’m not a Bill Simmons fan at all; but I’m pretty sure after seeing this movie, I will be able to write the sequel to “Now I Can Die In Peace.”

2-Anyone who can punt at the new Texas Stadium

LOLOLOLOLOL!

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjx6vsR71sg[/youtube]

I love the fact that Jerry Jones is now failing at everything he does. Sorta like his scheduling for the final game in the OTHER Texas Stadium……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YX3gYiQ3tww[/youtube]

The Cowboys are just awful. They and the Redskins deserve each other. Is there any rivalry in the world that features such passion between two teams despite the fact that NO ONE outside the two cities gives a crap about either of them?

3-Loyola College Students

I have no idea who won the showdown between Michael Phelps and Shaquille O’Neal Sunday night; mostly because I chose to go to a real college (Maryland) instead of being a Greyhound. But Shaquille O’Neal is so awesome that even he can make Michael Phelps interesting enough to be worth watching. Plus, he did this…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWw2PHQEWTg[/youtube]

4-Ricketts Family

I have a suggestion, Ricketts family. Want to make the Cubs kick ass again? Re-sign this man…..

“ROWENGARTNER!”
“He knows my name!”

5-Juan Diaz and Andre Berto

Just when Chad Ochocinco was starting to seem cool again…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N3eN0KwXcMU[/youtube]

……he had to go and turn into an ass again. I hope Andre Berto pounds him to within an inch of his life.

Meanwhile, Diaz won a questionable decision over Paulie Malignaggi in Houston. After the fight, he said some NSFW things like “boxing is full of sh*t” and “nobody watches boxing anymore because of sh*t like this.”

Which at least goes to show that he understands EXACTLY what’s going on currently in his sport.

6-Brett Favre

Who’s more popular in the North/Midwest? Favre……or Buscemi?

(Editor’s Note: Language NSFW. Unless you work at Perry Hall High School. Speaking of which, TLDGOTFOTP spends her first day as a teacher at Perry Hall Middle School tomorrow. I told her not to be worried because it’s safer to know that some of the kids are carrying guns.)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NeNmSy2yr4c[/youtube]

7-Anyone who has insurance for their Fantasy Football team

Look man, I’m a little worried about the long-term health of my 3rd round pick (Kurt Warner) myself; especially seeing as how I also selected Larry Fitzgerald and Steve Breaston…….but INSURANCE?

(Editor’s note: Also, if you’re the guy who Skypes into a Fantasy Football Draft and is COMPLETELY unprepared, it might be time to find a new league. Drafting Joe Flacco will only salvage you so much in my mind.)

You’re a zero……..

Anyone (like me) who never had the privilege of eating an ice cream bar with Hulk Hogan on it

As I was stealing an internet stream of Summerslam Sunday night (Jeff Hardy leaping off a ladder to drive CM Punk through the announce table? Yes please.), it came to my attention that there was once an ice cream bar that featured the Hulkster right there on the cookie. I don’t know how this ever happened……but I am good and embarrassed.

As far as the greatest inventions of all time are concerned; I know electricity and the light bulb were cool, and sliced bread has its place, but there is no doubt that this is Number 1……with a bullet.

(Editor’s note: Here’s the video of Hardy pummeling Punk. I’m sure it’ll be up for at least 10 minutes or so…..)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnwycsLzMjI[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983……

-G

David Hernandez will have some value for the Orioles in the offseason should they choose to trade him. I’m not certain that he will ever pan out to be a great pitcher, but last night’s game was an example of the promise he’s shown at this level that could make him a legitimate trade chip.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Luke Jones says Mark Clayton, Terrell Suggs won’t play vs. Washington Thursday

Nestor Aparicio says Ravens should just say ‘no thanks’ to Vick

Matt Duggins says Teixeira better off having signed with Yankees than Birds

Keith Melchior wonders if fans angry about current state of Orioles

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says David Hernandez impressive as Birds topped Athletics

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jason Berken takes hill in finale vs. Mazzaro, A’s

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Uehara eyeing September return in bullpen

Athletics Official Site’s Brian Eller says Cahill solid, but O’s topped Oakland

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says 23,000 saw Birds top A’s at Camden Yards

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck imagines MacPhail defending himself to fans

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Brian Roberts made very bad baserunning blunder

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says team holding “State of the Orioles” event before Angels game Saturday

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Markakis extended streak to 32 straight games reaching base

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley was happy with relief efforts from Albers, Danys Baez, Jim Johnson in win

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman ‘catches up with’ former Oriole Tettleton

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Birds reportedly agree to terms with draft picks Ashur Tolliver, Randy Henry, Ryan Berry

Examiner Jay Trucker says Tillman may be great pitcher, may be Hayden Penn

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Jim Johnson pitched 9th for 4th save of year

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says ‘lack of options’ amongst reasons Trembley won’t take Guthrie out of rotation

The AP says Birds beat A’s for first time in over 2 years

San Francisco Chronicle’s Susan Slusser says Adam Kennedy, Scott Hairston homered for A’s in loss

Oakland Tribune’s Curtis Pashelka says Chad Moeller’s 5th inning single ignited Athletics’ winning rally

CBS Sports’ Larry Dobrow has Birds 26th in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says David Pauley loser as Birds shut out by Scranton

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Ouellette winner in relief as Baysox topped New Hampshire

Frederick Keys Official Site says Sean Gleason loser as Keys fell to Potomac

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Salberg loser as Shorebirds fell to Charleston

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Haughian winner as Ironbirds topped Williamsport

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Justin Moore winner as Bluefield topped Pulaski

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Josh Bell had 3 hits for Baysox in win over Fisher Cats

Frederick News-Post says Waring’s 3 run bomb accounted for all runs in Keys’ loss to Potomac

Virginian-Pilot says Russ Ortiz shut down Tides for Yankees

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens OK with Flacco throwing picks in practice, don’t want him throwing picks in preseason games

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh believes Redskins game ‘extension of Training Camp’

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham says Training Camp in Westminster dates back to Colts

The Official Site says Harbaugh won’t name players who will miss Thursday’s game

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Troy Smith had been victim of fake Twitter account

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Figurs, Edgar Jones made stellar catches Tuesday at McDaniel College

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Derrick Mason dislocated right middle finger during practice

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Frank Walker, Figurs got into scuffle during Tuesday practice

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Hauschka to be kicker of record in first half, Gano in 2nd half of first preseason game

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Frank Walker thinks fights happen because players competing for roster spots

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Jonathan Ogden thinks Oher ‘tremendous athlete’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says despite rumors, Ravens shoot down interest in signing free agent QB Michael Vick

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh said Reed took off red jersey for ‘strategy’ against Flacco

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says besides Mason; WR’s Clayton, Williams also dealing with injuries

The Sun’s Edward Lee says J.O. has ‘no regrets’ about retirement

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says McGahee has ‘healthy body and attitude’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Mason’s injury ‘not regarded as serious’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Demetrius Williams, Jared Gaither, Todd Heap all plan to take field at M&T Bank Stadium Thursday night

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says new DC Greg Mattison in ‘tough situation’ taking over job

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio says Ravens will be ‘limited’ at WR vs. Skins

CBS Sports’ Clark Judge says Terrell Suggs compared Ray Rice to Barry Sanders

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Justin Harper, Marcus Smith should get reps in Thursday night’s game

ESPN.com’s Sal Paolantonio says Ravens know they must pressure Roethlisberger to beat Steelers

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says RB Gary Douglas impressive on Day 2 of practice

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Terps cut $300,000 from football budget

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph doesn’t know how much new RB’s Porzel, D.J. Adams might see field

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Mike Barbour, Nick Wallace ahead of Nick Ferrera in kicking competition

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Don Brown thinks Terps’ defense similar to Skins’

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Kevin Lempa believes Kenny Tate ‘biggest safety (he’s ) ever coached’

Examiner Matthew Bouchard thinks Maryland’s relationship with Under Armour should continue to develop

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Travis Hawkins, Caleb Porzel will also get chances to return punts

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Baltz great player, but no one wants to see him on field

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Don Brown ‘talks with pinkie’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph thinks Don Brown’s defense could be ‘intense and patient’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Da’Rel Scott appears to have added muscle

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Cal favored by 21.5 points over Terps

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says A.J. Francis will start at nose tackle if Dion Armstrong can’t get eligible

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says OL Gonnella doesn’t think line will use ‘inexperience as crutch’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says kicking situation similar to ’05, ’06 battles between Egekeze, Ennis

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner’s, Scott’s jerseys available in campus bookstore

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Adams, Porzel will get more work in scrimmage than starter Scott

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Armstrong has physical issues beyond academic ones

Washington Times’ David Elfin says Edwin Williams, Scott Burley most recent former Terps to join Joe Bugel’s O-Line with Skins

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich thinks Terps headed to EagleBank Bowl

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says freshman LB’s Darin Drakeford, Avery Murray might make ‘impact’ (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Terps ready to put pads on, start hitting (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty says O-Line ‘young’, ‘inexperienced’ besides Bruce Campbell, Phil Costa

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Terp Dave Neal headed to Ireland for more school, hoops

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terps recently offered DeMatha combo guard Jerian Grant (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Crystal Langhorne thinks ‘confidence’ reason for strong 2nd season with Washington Mystics

Tribune Newspapers’ Fred Mitchell says former Terp Toliver has played ‘sparingly’ for WNBA’s Chicago Sky

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Arundel QB Billy Cosh chose Kansas State with father (Chris) over joining Tigers

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Tigers to visit Morgan State, Navy this season

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Niumatalolo impressed by freshman De’Von Richardson

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says QB Dobbs must go from ‘flashy’ to starter

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says sophomore QB’s Kameron Smith, Kriss Proctor show ‘promise’

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Naval Academy continues open practice policy

UMES BASKETBALL:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says American highlights Hawks’ home schedule

MCDANIEL FOOTBALL:

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Terror return very experienced team

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra worked out at Saratoga

Thoroughbred Times’ Phil Janack says Rachel Alexandra put in first work since winning Haskell Invitational

The AP’s Beth Harris says Baffert going to Hall of Fame ‘on high’

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says 5 Mariners honored by AIFA

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

Examiner Jeff Hemelt says Brian Rowland, Paul Robson honored by USL-2

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-The Ravens need SOMEONE to play at WR tomorrow night. They need Joe Flacco to get some confidence in his first legitimate passes of the year, and I’m not sure Jayson Foster can do that for them.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

In the same way that I was not overwhelmed by Brian Matusz’s victory over the Tigers, I’m not overly down about his loss yesterday. He’s not a great pitcher yet……but maybe he will become one. If he does, it won’t be tomorrow.

Matusz is the first kid whose timing I’ve been concerned about a bit. This is a bad time for someone to be up. Once the rosters expand in September, the season becomes “silly season” for EVERY team in baseball. But in August, being in Baltimore is just strange-and that probably hurts young players a bit. They’re not sure if they’re supposed to really be giving their entire effort, or if they’re supposed to just try to go out and do what they did at the minor league level.

That’s what comes with losing baseball. This is Birdland!

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Luke Jones says Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw rumored to be making appearance at Training Camp

Luke Jones doesn’t think too much can be made from Flacco’s performance in Training Camp

Glenn Clark doubts Zaun too unhappy about leaving for Tampa Bay

Tom Clayton loves Camden Yards memories, but feels like ‘broken’ baseball fan now

ORIOLES:

MLB.com’s Erika Gilbert says Matusz hit hard in loss to Blue Jays

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

MLB.com’s Erika Gilbert says Markakis reached base in 30th straight game

MLB.com’s Erika Gilbert says Jeremy Guthrie to take hill tonight vs. Gio Gonzalez, Athletics

MLB.com’s Erika Gilbert says Roberts had day off Sunday, Trembley hopes he can play tonight

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 27,464 at Rogers Centre saw Birds lose series to Jays

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Aubrey Huff, Melvin Mora, Danys Baez cleared waivers

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says A’s come to Baltimore struggling, dumping veterans

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Tillman dealing with mildly strained groin

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Matusz threw 62 pitches in just 2 2/3 innings in loss

The AP says Wells, Scutaro, Millar homered for Blue Jays in win over Birds

Toronto Star’s Mark Zwolinski says Halladay received run support to help improve to 12-5

Toronto Sun’s Mike Rutsey says Halladay now 20-4 in career against O’s

Toronto Globe and Mail’s Tim Wharnsby says Scutaro finished with 4 hits in Toronto’s win

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Tanaka loser as Baysox swept by Portland

Frederick Keys Official Site says Waring, Widlansky, Crancer homered for Keys in win over Winston-Salem

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says series finale between Ironbirds, Doubledays suspended in 2nd due to rain

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Gary Helmick 2-4 with 2 runs scored as Orioles topped Elizabethtown

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Tides’ Andy Mitchell still waiting chance to pitch in Baltimore

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Josh Bell hit first HR since being acquired in loss to Sea Dogs

Frederick News-Post’s Adam Pohl says Moreland winner for Keys over Dash

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Ryan Mink says Rod Woodson said he was ‘proud to be a Raven’ in Hall of Fame induction speech

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ravens have great depth on D-Line with Gregg, Ngata, Bannan, Divens, Edwards, Pryce, McKinney, etc.

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Grubbs, Oher, Cousins, Ayanbadejo all practiced Sunday

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says ‘heat and physical demands’ of Training Camp nothing for Iraq veteran, rookie LB Tony Fein

The Sun’s Mike Preston says WR Justin Harper ‘lighting up the turf’ at McDaniel College

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says center Birk ‘feels like rookie’ in new system

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Flacco not building house in Westminster

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Figurs fighting to make roster spot in Training Camp this year

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks Birk will be ‘great fit’ in AFC North

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Tony Logan will get first chance to replace Danny Oquendo as punt returner

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph trying to get Terps back to status they reached in his first 3 seasons in College Park

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says new DC Don Brown giving Terps defensive ‘makeover’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says getting Dion Armstrong back would be ‘bonus’ for Don Brown

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former UMass head man Brown wouldn’t eliminate potential interest in future head coaching opportunities

USA Today’s Skip Wood says nothing surprising about former Terp DHB’s struggles in Oakland

Inside MD Sports’ Jeff Ermann says future Terp Titus Till ‘head smacker’

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty says Bishop McNamara WR prospect Brandon Coleman knows who he likes, but not in rush to make decision (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo allowed plebes to spend time with parents Friday

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says Marcus Curry ‘ready for spotlight’ (must subscribe)

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Aaron Wright says Bears return 14 starters when opening practice today

BALTIMORE COLTS:

SI’s Peter King says holding Unitas’ contract amongst highlights of Hall of Fame visit

NFL.com’s Jason La Canfora says Unitas greatest Hall of Famer ever

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I’ll be down in College Park for Maryland football Media Day today; and will hope to get you guys some video over the next couple weeks with a few players. This will really be the “season of Chris Turner”, as the senior QB is in his 2nd season under James Franklin-and the two should be familiar with each other. He also has very good talent at his disposal at RB, and has the chance to throw to a very deep group of WR’s. O-Line play could still be the team’s Achilles heel, but this one is on Turner to figure things out.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G