I am perplexed (to say the least) regarding the suicidal nature of Terps fans after the announcement that Jordan Steffy would be the team’s starting QB. Haven’t you been listening to me? There was never really going to be another choice.

Ralph Friedgen, in the end, went with 1-the steadiest hand, and 2-the strongest mind. Chris Turner had some exceptional moments in 2007, but for the most part, he was a .500 QB who no one wanted to see start before the season, and who inspired panic upon taking the field in Piscataway, New Jersey. Jordan Steffy had only lost his job due to injury, so Ralph did the right thing in allowing a QB competition.

Although I did not see much of practice in this session and none during the spring, I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that Jordan Steffy beat Chris Turner out for the job on the field. Jordan Steffy is just much more composed in everyday situations; and much more mature, possibly based on life experience.

The most important thing in my mind is that I really don’t think there was much of a difference between Jordan Steffy and Chris Turner. Chris Turner has done a bit more on Saturdays, but not significantly more. Chris Turner knew that if he wanted to re-establish himself as the starting QB, he needed to be more consistent in practice, so that Ralph and James Franklin would know that he was capable of running the offense. He apparently did not do that.

I applaud Ralph for making the call earlier in Camp. I’m still a bit shaky on the idea of trying to work Josh Portis onto the field, but I understand why they want his explosiveness. This team doesn’t need an exceptional starting QB; they need a capable starting QB. They need a quarterback who won’t crap the bed. Jordan Steffy IS capable of being that guy.

The bottom line is this. The Terps are a good enough team that this decision REALLY won’t matter. If Jordan Steffy proves to be incapable, Josh Portis or Chris Turner will get their chance-provided Chris Turner doesn’t transfer. If I were Chris Turner, I would think very hard before I attempt a transfer. San Jose State might be the type of school that would be interested.

Back off the ledge. This decision is fine.

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Matt Berger says Steffy needs to prove himself as starter

Glenn Clark says Baltimoreans see themselves in Phelps

Bob Haynie still thinks T. Smith should start

Marc Bouchard wonders what Billick haters think now

Rob Long says not much good happening for Ravens

Casey Willett says McClain changes jersey number from 37 to 33

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Birds waste quality start from Guthrie in loss

The Official Site offers numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Cabrera tries to turn things around tonight vs. Daisuke, Sox

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says 50^th millionth fan will hit Yard tonight

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Sarfate, Olson back out of rotation

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says O’s to play doubleheader Sept. 6

MLB.com’s David Just says Mora shares AL Player of the Week Award

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin thinks Tillman won’t get big league look until Spring Training

Red Sox Official Site’s Ian Browne says Bay homers twice as Sox win

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Lester limited Birds to 1 run on 4 hits

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Rowell still learning on farm

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Liz, Burres, Bergesen all options to pitch Friday

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Arrieta was ‘relieved’ to make Olympic team

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Henson hit slam for Shorebirds on farm

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Costanzo hit 3 run double win for Tides on farm

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Sherrill’s shoulder injured playing catch before game

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says roster expansion not likely to get Wieters, Bergesen to Baltimore

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says ‘stiff’ shoulder prevented Sherrill from being used

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Cintron cost Birds

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Orioles will get 100^th million fan ever this weekend

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Sept. 7 tickets to be honored at 1pm Sept. 6

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Jones could be ready to return before end of season

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says ‘confidence’ issue with Olson

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Birds had chance in 8^th, but Hernandez left Huff at 2nd

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Guthrie suffers first loss since July 23

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Olson going to pen instead of minors because Birds need relief help

The AP says Birds want to get Olson work in situations with less pressure, stress

The AP says Varitek also homered for Sox in win

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says bullpen falters in loss

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says Olson wants to get more consistent

Boston Globe’s Amalie Benjamin says Sox felt at home at Yard

Boston Herald’s Jeff Horrigan says Huff homered for Birds in loss

Providence Journal’s Joe McDonald says Bay bounced back from 0-3 Sunday with 4 RBI Monday

Fox Sports’ Aram Tolegian has Birds 17^th in Power Rankings

Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan has Orioles 18^th in Power Rankings

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Suggs returns to practice

The Official Site says Harbaugh thinks Suggs in shape for return

The Official Site says 52 to give away backpacks with Mayor Dixon

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says many injured Ravens returned to practice Monday

The Sun’s Mike Preston says QB competition winner irrelevant

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Suggs ‘optimistic’ he’ll stay with Ravens long term

The Sun’s Edward Lee and Jamison Hensley say Terry could play Saturday vs. Rams

The Sun’s Mike Preston ‘not reading into’ 52 sitting by himself Saturday night

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Flacco needs to adjust to ‘speed’ of NFL

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Martin missed practice with injured shoulder

Aaron Wilson says Suggs ‘didn’t want to’ skip Camp

Aaron Wilson says Terry practices for first time in 3 weeks

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Cousins, Slaughter, Walker not helping case

The AP says Suggs signed 1 year, $8.47 million tender before practicing

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks T. Smith will get start Saturday

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Stover Ravens’ “Franchise player”

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Steffy named starter for Aug. 30

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says stats in Spring, Fall practices give Steffy nod over Turner, Portis

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says “Steffey” to start at QB (maybe a new headline editor, guys?)

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Turner will be #2, Portis will be used in situations

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Friedgen listed as ‘overpaid’

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Terps have offered McNamara WR Coleman

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner’s family ‘shellshocked’ by QB decision

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens understands why Turner family, others ‘shellshocked’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says CB Taylor taken to hospital, released with heat related injury

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says true freshman J. Lewis working into guard rotation

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Portis ‘happy to get on field’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Steffy decision not popular amongst Terps fans

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph hoping fans will ‘rally’ around Steffy

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says completion percentage amongst stats used to select Steffy

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner not available for comment after decision

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Portis ‘freakish’

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Steffy ‘not looking over his shoulder’

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says QB not totally settled now (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report offers audio of Friedgen’s press conference (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report offers video of Steffy’s reaction (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times checks in on hoops prospects at “The Dome” (must subscribe)

UMES BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Tyson not returning for ’08-’09 season

COPPIN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says new AD Ramsey brings college experience to new position

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says former NFL TE Ramsey takes over as Coppin AD

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says fan bus available for Navy game

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Logan-El not playing football at Towson anymore

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site recaps Week 1 of football practice

OLYMPICS:

NBCOlympics.com’s Alan Abrahamson offers touching Phelps story

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Phelps dug dedication from Springsteen

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg shows us what Phelps’ SI cover will look like

The Sun’s Brent Jones says Phelps admits to purchasing pool

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Phelps’ departure amongst reasons Olympics ‘over’

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Towson in medal hunt

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Arietta struck out 7 over 6 shutout, 2 hit innings in Olympic debut

The AP’s Emily Fredrix says Phelps now moves into career as commercial pitchman

Yahoo! Sports’ Charles Robinson says Phelps now free to ‘live the dream’

Mt. St. Mary’s Official Site says Krumberga’s Olympic run over

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Laura Smitherman says wording of slots question on ballot criticized

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I understand why Brad Bergesen will not get the open spot in the rotation. Radhames Liz or Brian Burres will do for now, and Hayden Penn should get the spot when he’s healthy. Garrett Olson could have stayed in the rotation for all I care; but he might as well get his head right. The time will come for Bergesen, Tillman, et al.

-Ironically, the night the Orioles will honor their 50 millionth fan; there will again be roughly 50,000 New Englanders around the Harbor.

-Welcome back Terrell Suggs. I still LOVE the smell of a Suggs for Boldin deal.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Brian Cazeneuve has it right. As of this moment, we REALLY have to consider whether or not Michael Phelps is the greatest/most dominant athlete in the world.

I am going to take a pass on questioning the world records; as EVERYONE ELSE in swimming is also breaking records. Former swimmers are saying that there is no reason to be suspect. Every swimmer is competing on a level playing field. I’m not going to question it; I don’t think there is anything to question.

What I WILL question is whether or not Michael Phelps will return to Baltimore and become an ambassador not only for the sport of swimming, but for the city. The story of Phelps receiving an autographed Ravens jersey and having it mean more to him than his gold medal is one that touches all of us; but good feelings aren’t enough. It was Peter Parker’s great uncle Ben who said “With great power comes great responsibility.” Michael Phelps returns to Baltimore as arguably the greatest athlete in the world; and the question now is whether or not he will show the maturity and responsibility necessary to truly represent the title here in Charm City.

Michael Phelps’ focus leading up to an event is incredible. Maybe the IPod is the most significant invention in sports preparation, as Michael seems to be unflappable as he gets ready. I was forced to sit through the women’s gymnastics as I was waiting for his second race; and it was incredible to see the difference in watching the athletes prepare. Michael remains totally unfazed right up until the moment he hits the pool; whereas the gymnasts appear almost as though they are going to faint right up until they reach the moment. It is truly unreal to compare.

I have to admit, I didn’t even realize how much I would be caught up in this. Michael Phelps truly is the most significant athlete in Baltimore. He’s in the argument as the most significant athlete in Baltimore history. We’re all watching. We’re all captivated. We’re all talking about it. If he’s racing against the Ravens game Saturday night; I genuinely might stay home to watch.

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

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says time for Suggs to report to practice

Casey Willett says Troy ‘has not been great’, but Boller and Flacco haven’t either

Marc Bouchard says 52 helping 85

Rob Long getting ‘anxious’ (the bad kind) about ’08 Ravens

Keith Melchior thinks some legends missing from museum

OLYMPICS:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Phelps now stands alone as greatest Olympic Champion with 11 gold medals

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says suits amongst reason Phelps, etc. breaking records in Beijing

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Phelps, Hoff have busy mornings

Chicago Tribune’s Philip Hersh says Hoff fails to medal in two events

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Phelps not from ‘mean streets’

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Hoff not ‘disappointment’ at Olympics

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Malaythong also representing Maryland in Beijing

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck wonders if IOC has taken steps to get Spitz to Beijing

Scripps Howard News Service says Phelps emotional over gold record

Frederick News-Post’s Adam Behsudi/The AP say major stars checked out Phelps in Cube

Washington Post’s Barry Svrluga says Phelps now 5/5 in Beijing

Washington Post’s Sally Jenkins says Phelps had to race with water in goggles

NBCOlympics.com’s Alan Abrahamson says relay gold came as Phelps & Company smashed world record

ESPN.com’s Pat Forde says Phelps now ‘greatest Olympian ever’

Fox Sports’/New York Post’s Mike Vaccaro says no more adjectives exist to describe Phelps

SI’s Brian Cazeneuve says Phelps in argument for greatest athlete in world

Yahoo! Sports’ Charles Robinson says Phelps ‘speechless’ after setting record

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Markakis RBI tied things in 7^th, but Indians touch up J. Johnson for 2 in 8th

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Guthrie tries to turn things around tonight vs. Reyes

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds won’t change rotation yet

Indians Official Site’s Andrew Gribble says 21k see Indians take 2^nd from Birds

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says defensive woes continue in loss

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Birds, Matusz ‘far apart’; but Matusz hopes to get deal done

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says four run first doomed Olson, Birds in loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Neal could allow McClain to take snaps at RB

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds commit four errors in loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck expects Mickolio to be next reliever called up

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Matusz looking for fair ‘but not record breaking’ deal

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says 50^th millionth could very well be Red Sox fan

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Liz turns in solid start on farm

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Markakis’ average up to .303 with two hits last night

The Examiner’s Jay Trucker says Payton, Castro combined for big defensive play

The AP says A. Cabrera lead charge for Indians

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens sign veteran FB Neal

The Official Site says Harbaugh likes Neal’s history with Cameron

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham says smoking rules changed at M&T

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Stover’s 48 yard boot gave Ravens afternoon off

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Kracalik’s starting position still undecided

The Sun’s Edward Lee & Jamison Hensley say players ‘respect’ Neal

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Yanda giving Ravens boost at guard

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Ravens jersey more valuable to Phelps than gold medal

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says former Colts not sympathetic to Ravens’ tough Camp

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Flacco best of QB’s in Camp Tuesday

The Sun says M. Smith wants to ‘fly’

The Sun’s Ken Murray says coaching could be in B. Jackson’s future

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Reed has ‘neck injury’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Figurs absent due to birth of child

The Sun’s Mike Preston likes Neal acquisition

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Boller started Tuesday well, but struggled after

Aaron Wilson says Martin, Prude, Pittman competing for roster spot

Aaron Wilson says Neal has blocked for 11 consecutive 1,000 yard rushers

Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh wanted afternoon practice, but thought players deserved day off

Aaron Wilson says T. Smith maybe ‘too excited’ for Saturday start

The Examiner’s Eric Detweiler says Barnes making impression in Suggs’ absence

The Examiner’s Eric Detweiler says Stover thought practice kick had more pressure than game winner

The Examiner’s Eric Detweiler says Scott busy making plays yesterday

The Examiner’s Phil Macek not skeptical about Neal signing

The AP says Cameron excited to work with Neal again

ESPN.com’s James Walker wonders if Neal, Cameron can recreate San Diego ‘super’ magic

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Cody ‘still rookie’

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer gives Ravens no chance to make playoffs

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says C. Jackson stars at goal line in tenth practice

The Official Site says former Terp Abdur-Ra’oof will lead M Club

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Terps have borderline Top 25 recruiting class right now

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says fans getting impatient on QB decision

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ivey, Russell to each miss at least 3 weeks

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph clearly respects Steffy

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens thinks Oquendo will beat Tyler for return job

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh looks at banged up Ivey (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh discusses Ralph’s post-scrimmage thoughts (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says NJ LB prospect back on campus (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Seth Hoffman looks at those whose stock has risen over summer (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Examiner’s Dylan Waugh says former Terp Jones trying out in Romania

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter checks in on more prospects from DC event (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Niumatalolo using multiple slots with Bryant back at QB

The Sun’s Don Markus says Mids preparing for Sept. 30 as if Bryant to be starter

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Deliz not first former captain to play for Mids

Go Mids’ Christian Swezey says fans will be important factor in Navy’s tilt with Rutgers

Go Mids’ Matt Alkire checks in with prospect Phillipy (must subscribe)

TOWSON LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says Buggs Combs resigns as assistant (Gordy’s son)

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Bears bring back 50 players from last year’s team

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Palace opens playoffs tonight against Harrisburg

LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES:

The Sun’s Bill Ordine says Hagerstown undefeated during run to Williamsport

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times says Eight Belles to be memorialized at Churchill Downs

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I have to disagree with Rick Maese regarding Katie Hoff. Without a gold medal, the 2008 Olympics WILL be a disappointment for Katie Hoff; as I know her expectations were to win gold in Beijing. That being said, she still has her chances.

-I REALLY like the Lorenzo Neal acquisition. I think it shows that the Ravens are concerned about their RB’s getting beat up; and they want to do something to address the problem. 37 year old Lorenzo Neal might not be as good as 32 year old Lorenzo Neal; but he MIGHT be as good as 32 year old Sam Gash. That’s better than Justin Green or Le’Ron McClain. It doesn’t make this a 10 win team though.

-Why wait to make the Hayden Penn move? Do you really want to see Dennis Sarfate again?

-Brian Matusz should take whatever the Orioles offer. I actually won’t be that angry if for some reason the Birds don’t get the job done. If his slotted value is $5 million; he should get it. If it isn’t, he should stop making demands.

-Speedy recoveries to Travis Ivey and Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku Enhada.

-Get out to UMBC and root on Crystal Palace in the playoffs tonight.

Crabs and Beer will be off the next two days; as I will be hosting the Comcast Morning Show with Thyrl Nelson. Make sure you tune in! Talk to you then, and talk to you on here Monday!

-G

I am not as positive about last night’s game as Drew is.

The ONLY thing I can say is that after last night’s game, I still don’t know that the Ravens won’t be a terrible football team in 2008.

I still don’t know that there is a QB on this roster.

I still don’t know that John Harbaugh is a competent coach in the NFL.

I still don’t know that the Ravens will win more than 4 games this season.

But I also didn’t expect to learn those things from this game. It was a preseason game. It was so irrelevant that Bill Belichick didn’t even bother to tell his players there was a game scheduled last night.

I think Kyle Boller was exactly what we know Kyle Boller can be. When plays were scripted for him on the first drive, he was fine. When he actually had to do some quarterbacking; he made mistakes.

I think Troy Smith was exactly what we know Troy Smith can be. When he was zeroed in on a receiver, he found him. When the pocket collapsed, he made things happen. But when it came to just making throws; some were WAY off. And the diving catch he made on the sidelines might have been humorous; but if he had hurt himself; he would have entered into Bill Buckner-like lore.

I think Joe Flacco was exactly what we know Joe Flacco can be. That being said, we have absolutely no idea what Joe Flacco can be, and we don’t have any better idea after last night’s game.

It WAS nice to see Fabian Washington make two picks though. That will be my one lasting image from preseason contest number 1. Heck, I’ll even forgive the Ravens for giving an actual player Jamal’s number-if Fabian can continue to play.

Overall, I’d give the first game an Incomplete. We just didn’t learn much of anything.

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

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says Boller ‘separated himself’ in QB race

Keith Melchior just wants Ravens to stay healthy in preseason

Ken Zalis thinks McGahee could be fantasy bust this season

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh begins preseason career with win over Patriots

The Official Site’s Kristen Deahl says Washington gets two picks in Ravens debut

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says despite good signs from Boller; T. Smith will get next start

Patriots Official Site’s Michael Parente says Belichick considered loss ‘good learning experience’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Boller displays ‘same old bad habits’ in win

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Boller did good things, ‘really stupid things’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Figurs played well at WR; even better as returner

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck wonders if Ravens would be interested in Pennington

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says last night was vintage Boller

The Sun’s Mike Preston says ‘true barometer’ won’t come until 3^rd game

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Prude added late INT to finish game

Aaron Wilson says Cameron thought Boller ‘okay’ in win

Aaron Wilson says Ravens won without 11 starters

The AP’s Howard Ulman says Flacco ‘looked like rookie’ in win

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Scott trying to help toughen Rice in practice

Boston Globe’s Christopher Gasper says Pats can’t find backup QB in loss

Boston Herald’s Karen Guregian says Pats suffer 5 turnovers in loss

Providence Journal’s Shalise Manza Young says Pats unable to get things going without Brady, Moss, Welker

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says ‘perspective’ helped Huff get back to stardom

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Bradford traded to Tampa for player to be named

Rangers Official Site’s Shawn Shroyer says Mendoza counters Guthrie tonight at Yard

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Roberts not committing to anything about future

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds save $4.5 million in Bradford deal

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Birds weighing ’09 options for Johnson

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Rangers’ Boggs to start for injured Murphy

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Matusz situation ‘status quo’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks Waters will start Sunday, Penn will start in Cleveland

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says MacPhail wanted to see young relievers, can use money freed up in Bradford deal

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck happy for Olson as he prepares for Orioles Hall of Fame induction

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says “Why Not” will be remembered as Olson honored

The Examiner’s Jay Trucker wonders if Birds miss innings eater Trachsel

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Birds will replace Bradford on roster before tonight’s game

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Jordan believes ‘slow progress’ being made with Matusz

SI’s Gennaro Filice keeps Birds 18^th in Power Rankings

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Friedgen pleased with Costa, Covington amongst others

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph thought Portis had 2^nd good day in a row

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps want ‘vocal leadership’ from Barnes

Washington Post’s Josh Barr checks in with prospect Ankrah

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Penn State commit Thomas could still visit Maryland

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem profiles Philistin’s continued improvement (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem looks at Tate’s move to defensive side (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Dorsey ‘most athletic’ of ’08 WR class (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Seth Hoffman says Allen gets another INT in practice (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Examiner’s Dylan Waugh says Caner-Medley to play in Italy

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh looks at Vinson’s Vegas Camp (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Terps to spend Thanksgiving in Cancun

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mids set ticket sales record again

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Deliz will be first to serve as captain; play another season

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Robinson to receive humanitarian award from Hall

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says former McDaniel assistant Johnson joins Tigers’ staff

LOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Wright helping community over summer break

COPPIN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Eagles named amongst top 100 programs of last 23 years by ESPN

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Mitchell pleased with guard depth in ’08 class

OLYMPICS:

Mt. St. Mary’s Official Site says former lady hoopster Krumberga competing with Latvia

Maryland’s Official Site says Edu helps lead US Soccer past Japan in opener

The Sun’s Candus Thomson says Hoff ‘more mature’, ‘determined’ in Beijing

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Hoff more deserving of praise than Torres

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Maryland boxer Russell forced to withdraw after not making weight, suffering dehydration

The Sun’s Rick Maese says Melo wants parade with Phelps after winning golds

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Phelps wants to do something ‘sport has never seen’

USA Today’s Vicki Michaelis says Spitz thinks Phelps will be ‘unbelievable’ in Beijing

Sporting News’ Jay Weiner says Phelps won’t need ‘luck’ in Beijing to get to 8

Yahoo! Sports’ Dan Wetzel says Phelps ‘should dominate’ Olympic headlines

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says local horsemen happy to have racing back

Thoroughbred Times’ John Scheinman says Laurel meet starts today

Washington Post’s John Scheinman says horsemen understand track cuts

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says tickets now available for playoff game Wednesday (and little else)

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Palace still alive for third seed

MARINERS:

The Official Site’s David Harrington says Mariners retain Simpson as Head Coach

BALTIMORE COLTS:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says 50^th anniversary of “Greatest Game Ever Played” to be celebrated Dec. 27 at M&T Bank Stadium

ARENA:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Hasseltine hired to lure major events to state

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-The Ravens SHOULD be interested in Chad Pennington…if this was June. But because it is August 8; the Ravens can’t afford to disrupt their current QB carousel to give Pennington the chance to compete. Pennington is NOT a sure fire starter on this (or most other) team(s). The Ravens COULD have used a veteran on the roster; but Kyle Boller will have to do. It is just too late to make that move.

-A player to be named later might not seem like much for Chad Bradford, but finding a team to take $4.5 million worth of salary off the Orioles’ hands IS pretty significant. Bradford will help the Rays; and the money will help the Orioles……we hope. Hayden Penn deserves the chance to get into the rotation; as Dennis Sarfate really never has had the stuff to be a big league starter anyway.

-Josh Portis had a 2^nd consecutive good day in practice? This reminds me of when he won the Heisman Trophy for me last year as my QB in NCAA Football 2008 on Playstation. Can someone get me a Portis jersey? I’m also going to need a Fabian Washington jersey while you’re shopping.

-I will admit-I will probably take some time to watch the Olympics. It is a shame that I don’t know when Michael Phelps’ important races are on live; as I would actually like to watch them. I’m hoping to find some sort of “Phelps TV Schedule” online somewhere.

-The Ravens are helping to honor the ’58 Colts and the Greatest Game Ever Played in ’58? Can they also foot the bill for a ’66 World Series celebration?

-Best of luck to Terry Hasseltine in trying to lure more major sporting events to Maryland. Make sure they build you the arena first.

Talk to you Monday, have a great weekend.

-G

There are a NUMBER of things I am hoping to see tonight. The most important thing about tonight’s game in my mind is how the secondary will perform. I think the difference between this being a downright TERRIBLE football team and this being a potentially decent football team lies in the secondary. Fabian Washington is the biggest difference. If the Patriots go down and score on their first three drives; I actually do think it will be fair to be concerned. Chris McAlister could miss more games. Samari Rolle really can’t be fairly expected to do anything this season.

This team NEEDS to be able to defend long passes. This team CANNOT make beating them as simple as throwing the ball-as many teams discovered last year. Someone HAS to be able to defend the pass. This IS the type of thing that we can start to determine in the preseason. If they can’t defend the pass; it won’t matter who is playing QB.

I’ll say Patriots 27, Ravens 13. None of the QB’s will look particularly effective.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says things COULD get bad for ‘08 Ravens

Vince Fiduccia fine with decision to start Boller tonight

Casey Willett says Walker, Ivy could be in danger of losing roster spots

The Fighting Ungers think Ravens would have made playoffs with Favre

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Olson rocked as Orioles drop finale

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Montanez becomes just second Bird to homer in first MLB AB

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says after day off, Guthrie takes hill to open series with Rangers

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley doesn’t expect to see Wieters, Ray in bigs in September

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Teixeira thinks return to Baltimore would be ‘special’

The Official Site says MacPhail doesn’t see significant change to Johnson’s role next year

Angels Official Site’s Rhett Bollinger says Santana gets 13^th win as Halos cruise

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 40k see Angels crush Birds

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Tex won’t think about Baltimore return until offseason

The Sun’s Bill Ordine wonders if Birds have more Waters on farm

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Payton made two “Web Gem” catches yesterday

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Torrealba gets walk-off homer to lift Bowie to win on farm

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says only other Bird to homer in first AB was pitcher Narum in ‘63

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Ray ready to take ‘next step’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck conveys praise heaped on Waters by Hunter, Millar, etc.

The AP says Vlad homered, drove in four in win for Angels

LA Times’ Bill Shaikin says Guerrero continues hot hitting since Teixeira acquisition

LA Daily News’ Bill Plunkett says Angels win 7^th in last 10

Fox Sports’ Tracy Ringolsby thinks Huff could still be dealt

Orioles Hangout’s DJ McCann says Liz gave up 5 in 6^th of Norfolk’s loss to Columbus

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Patrick Gleason says Pryce working on movies, music aside from football

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh ‘sure’ he’ll be nervous in Head Coaching debut tonight

The Sun’s David Steele warns not to overreact to QB’s in opener

The Sun’s Mike Preston says look out for ‘new wrinkles’ on offense and defense tonight

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says any crazies who run on field at M&T Bank Stadium this year will be charged with trespassing

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder doesn’t know what to expect tonight in first game as Head Coach

The Examiner’s Phil Macek picks Ravens to win; T. Smith to perform

Aaron Wilson says Rolle, McAlister, P. Carter, Daniels, Gaither, Terry, Ngata, Gregg, Heap, A. Walker, Cody, McGahee, Reed, D. Williams, Wilcox, Suggs all not playing tonight (Is that all?)

Aaron Wilson says rookie safeties amongst players to watch tonight

Carroll County Times’ Brian Haines says Greisen ‘mentally ready’

The AP says Rice expects ‘jitters’ tonight

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Ralph pleased with Portis during Day 3 of Camp

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says ‘early interest’ helped get Ross to Maryland

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph still doesn’t like Portis’ feet movement

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says count, cadence better for Portis

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph believes gas costs hurting Terps in Florida recruiting

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps update ‘prohibited’ list at Byrd

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says almost all players passed conditioning test

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Fokou set to become American citizen

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Wujciak finally got new picture

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Portis’ only lowlight yesterday was throwing INT for TD

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Turner, Steffy, Portis can all improve

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Scott, Green must work to replace Lattimore, Ball

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says things should be safe for Ralph in College Park

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich ranks Ralph 8^th amongst ACC Coaches

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Portis ‘turned things around’ for struggling offense on Wednesday (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says work ‘paying off’ for Senior Muhtadi (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says prospect Ankrah about to cut list (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Seth Hoffman says defense records 3 picks in practice (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Seth Hoffman profiles FB’s (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says some ACC games scheduled for Terps

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site offers interviews with Niumatalolo, etc.

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site cleans up after me

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Jays picked 4^th in Centennial

MCDANIEL FOOTBALL:

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says McDaniel picked 8^th in Centennial

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Palace falls to Bermuda (and nothing else)

MARINERS:

The Official Site’s David Harrington says team unveils new logo

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says Magna lost $4.4 million in Maryland during Preakness quarter

Daily Racing Form’s Matt Hegarty says Million not affected by Laurel cancels

Thoroughbred Times’ Frank Angst says Magna losses surpass $575 million

Thoroughbred Times says horses, horsemen at Pimlico to be relocated to Laurel, Bowie

OLYMPICS:

The Sun’s Rick Maese says ‘Melo takes Baltimore to Beijing

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Hoff won’t let nerves get best of her this time

The Sun’s John Weaver says Lacrosse not likely to get Olympic look until after 2050

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Don’t panic with Garrett Olson. He’s shown enough to earn the spot. But I really think the next few weeks could be a bit brutal for this Orioles team. Guys could really start showing a lack of interest.

-I was asked yesterday who it was that I wanted to win the Maryland QB competition. I said “Jordan Steffy is GOING to win it; but I would love to see Josh Portis.” Portis brings the most to the table athletically; and would be the most dynamic of the group……IF he knows the offense. What happened yesterday at practice can’t help but excite me.

-Drew’s theory on MAGNA inflating their losses is not unfounded, but we all know there are issues with the horse racing industry in this state. Whether they lost $4.4 million during Preakness or not; we still know there are major problems.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Baltimore NEEDS a new arena; desperately. The circumstances by which these plans were presented are NOT ideal; but it doesn’t matter anymore. The city needs to do absolutely anything it can to get a new arena as soon as possible. I’m not thrilled with the location of the arena (I know it is familiar; but having an arena with available parking is even nicer than familiarity); but it is better than having the arena located in DC.

As I mentioned this morning; Towson’s new facility is scheduled to open in 2011. If the new Arena needs to come down before that; Cole Field House could be an option for the Blast (there is currently a carpet down on the floor at Cole). I do NOT think a temporary facility is a good idea; but maybe a facility could be built in the Timonium area that could double for major State Fair-related events.

The bottom line is that this arena HAS to come. And it needs to get here quickly. I don’t think we’ll ever see another NBA team in the city or a NHL team; but it doesn’t matter. The city is desperate. It needs the money. It needs the opportunity for growth.

I am truly pleased with everything I have heard.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Anthony Amobi thinks Gibbons deserves second chance

Rob Long wonders if Ravens can be amongst top 6 in AFC

Rob Long enjoyed rooting for ’83 Orioles with family

Casey Willett wonders if Harbaugh’s team philosophy will eliminate King Ugly

Nestor Aparicio picked Ogden over Ripken

The Fighting Ungers can’t figure out how Gibbons gets a job and Bonds doesn’t

Rex Snider says Gibbons stole money from Birds

Lonnie Nelson says Birds botch ’83 celebration

Patrick Johnson concerned for future of Blast

Alex Thomas says honesty gets Gibbons second chance

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Orioles’ bats never wake up in suspended loss to Jays

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss in suspended game

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Halladay dominates, Cabrera struggles in Game 2 loss

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of Game 2 loss

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Walker allows 3 runs on 5 hits in 1 inning, Cintron goes 1-2 as both rehab on farm

The Official Site’s Amanda Comak says Burres faces Saunders as Orioles begin set with baseball’s best Angels

Blue Jays Official Site’s Jordan Bastian says Burnett gets Game 1 win despite not throwing pitch yesterday

Blue Jays Official Site’s Jordan Bastian says with Game 2 win, Jays get back to .500

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Cabrera can’t get through 6^th in loss

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Millar’s throwing error cost Birds in suspended loss

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Halladay improves to 18-4 lifetime against Birds

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. expects big series from Huff, not so big series from Roberts

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Cabrera has now won just once in last 12 starts

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says despite good outing, Penn not ticketed for Orioles

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Ray definitely done for 2008

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Guthrie offered to finish suspended game

The Sun’s Roch Kubatko says Arrieta stellar in final Frederick start before getting on road to Beijing

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says schedule gets no easier for Birds

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Markakis’ throw rare highlight of difficult day for Birds

The Examiner’s Sean Welsh says Trembley disappointed with everyone in rotation not named Guthrie

Carroll County Times’ Bob Blubaugh says 23k see Cabrera falter again in loss

Carroll County Times’ Bob Blubaugh says starters have 7.51 ERA over last 17

The AP says Scott sac fly provides only run all day for Birds

Washington Post’s Marc Carig says Cabrera feels he attacked zone; but batters hit pitches

Toronto Star’s Mark Zwolinski says Burnett gets 11^th win in suspended game

Toronto Sun’s Mike Rutsey says Jays win first road series since May

Toronto Globe and Mail’s Robert Macleod says Halladay gives up seven hits over seven innings in winning Game 2

Fox Sports’ Ken Rosenthal says Orioles wouldn’t deal Guthrie for Barmes

SI’s Gennaro Filice drops Birds to 18^th in Power Rankings

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Kevin Byrne says Bisciotti sending personal jet for Rolle’s father’s funeral; veterans to also attend

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says rookies now have to catch up with veterans

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy breaks down special teams

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Cody working back at DE in attempt to finally return

Aaron Wilson says Zbikowski fighting for roster spot, not boxing future

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Ravens ready to practice with entire team twice today

The Examiner’s Ron Snyder says Ravens appreciate work done by Rice in returning punts

The Examiner’s Gary Lambrecht says Ravens face many questions as veterans open Camp

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Harbaugh biggest difference in ’08 Ravens

ARENA:

The Sun’s Stephen Kiehl says proposed new arena to seat 18,500

The Sun’s Childs Walker says even without NBA or NHL team, arena could turn profit

The Sun’s Rick Maese says city should try to find private money to build arena

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says Hale considering new arena in Baltimore County

The Examiner’s Aaron Cahall and Andrew Cannarsa say panel believes arena could revitalize West Side

The Examiner’s Aaron Cahall and Andrew Cannarsa say arena to cost $300 million

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Ray Frager says Delaware game will be hard to watch

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Brattan helped get Adams to Maryland

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens STILL says Terps didn’t “duck” Navy in ‘06

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Friedgen angry Terps haven’t played Duke

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem checks in on international transfer prospect (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps will play Bucknell Nov. 14

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter checks in with 2010 prospect Smith (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mids to sign autographs Saturday at Camden Yards

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Coach Johnson doesn’t believe new Coach Niumatalolo will ‘accept mediocrity’

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Examiner’s Dave Carey says Towson-Navy amongst best CAA games this year

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says despite playing two men down, Palace gets stoppage time win

REAL MARYLAND:

The Official Site’s Matt Skinner previews tomorrow’s match with Richmond

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Right now, how would you draw up the Orioles’ 2009 rotation? With a gun to my head, I’d hope for AJ Burnett, Jeremy Guthrie, Garrett Olson, Hayden Penn, and maybe Matt Albers fifth. I think Daniel Cabrera could be traded for a Single A level prospect in the offseason; and that might be best for the Birds.

-Trading Jeremy Guthrie for Clint Barmes would not have made since to me. I’m glad the Orioles passed.

-Tom from Mt. Washington stole some of my thunder this morning. If I was Ozzie Newsome, I’d be on the phone with the Bidwills immediately. Anquan Boldin would immediately become the greatest WR in Ravens history if he were in Baltimore. He is also NOT the type of person he has seemed like in the media; he’s just a person who has been misled by Drew Rosenhaus. Boldin is a special player, a special person; and would have a lot to offer the Ravens. He also wants a long-term deal; meaning he wouldn’t walk. Interestingly enough; Terrell Suggs has said before that he’d like to play for the Cardinals. If the Cards were willing to make that deal (the Ravens would likely have to throw in a pick of some sort); I would do it in the blink of an eye.

Talk to you Monday.

-G