The Maryland basketball season doesn’t TECHNICALLY tip off until next Friday against Charleston Southern; but even an exhibition game tonight has me salivating. I LOVE College Hoops. And for the first time in a few years, I have a real genuine excitement about the long-term potential for this Maryland team. Here’s my thought process….

As far as the ACC is concerned, the Terps do NOT have the talent of North Carolina, and Duke is built better than they are. They have the capability to compete with any team in the league, but they should absolutely finish somewhere between 3rd and 5th in the league-with Georgia Tech, Clemson, Florida State and Wake Forest also in the mix.

This team will need to get more consistent outside shooting from Greivis Vasquez, Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker and Sean Mosley to compete for a conference title. Mosley especially might never be a natural shooter, but he at least must be a threat. They’ll need to muscle up inside as well, as Jordan Williams and James Padgett will help-but Dino Gregory and Landon Milbourne will be the guys to start.

And the team will ultimately revolve around Greivis Vasquez. This is his team. As we saw last season, when everything went wrong (remember the home game against UNC), sometimes Greivis could still save things. He’s much more mature than when he came to College Park, and this is his chance to leave a legacy.

I’ll say the Terps finish 4th in the ACC and end up in the Sweet 16. I reserve the right to change my mind anytime between now and March.

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark doesn’t know if Chris Chambers would necessarily be a great fit in Baltimore

Chris Pika says Ravens lead NFL in penalty yards

Glenn Clark, Drew Forrester say Flacco was best Raven in win over Broncos

Nestor Aparicio says former Ravens Exec Kokinis joins Phil Savage in being fired by Browns

Glenn Clark gives highest praise to special teams for win over Denver

Bob Haynie wonders who has been ‘most surprising Raven’ in ‘09

Derek Arnold says Ravens didn’t want to let another game ‘slip through (their) hands’

Glenn Clark can’t blame Jamal Lewis for wanting to get out of Cleveland

Glenn Clark says start of college hoops season at Maryland, UMBC, Loyola amongst highlights of week

Drew Forrester says Nestor Aparicio dispatched of Denise Koch in Baltimore Sun contest

Ed Frankovic says Ovechkin ‘week to week’ with upper body strain

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s John Eisenberg says Derrick Mason, Mark Clayton, Kelley Washington team’s new ‘three headed monster’

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Jared Gaither’s neck ‘felt fine’ after win over Broncos

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh told Derrick Mason to let him handle officials

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Lardarius Webb TD ‘just one highlight’ for Ravens’ special teams unit

The Official Site says Harbaugh declined comment on Ngata’s injury during Monday press conference

The Official Site says Ravens partnered with Shoppers Food and Pharmacy, Maryland Food Bank

Bengals Official Site says team needs to sell 4,500 more tickets to Sunday’s game at Paul Brown Stadium to avoid blackout

Bengals Official Site’s Geoff Hobson says Roy Williams returned to practice Monday

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says no rest for Ravens defense with Cincinnati, Indianapolis, Pittsburgh, Green Bay coming up

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ravens 3rd in NFL (behind Colts, Dolphins) in converting 3rd downs

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Carson Palmer and Cincinnati will ‘challenge’ Ravens’ secondary with downfield passing

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbs told media Hauschka put in extra work on 43 yard FG try

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ngata injury not considered ‘serious’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Josh McDaniels was really impressed with Flacco

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Domonique Foxworth knows Ravens can’t get ‘too high’ after win

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says players credited Kelley Washington for win over Broncos

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Kelley Washington thought win over Broncos ‘stress reliever’

Cincinnati Enquirer’s Joe Reedy says Andre Smith could make NFL debut Sunday for Bengals

The AP’s Joe Kay says Cedric Benson, Jeremi Johnson healed during bye week

Sporting News’ Clifton Brown has Ravens 10th in power rankings

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio has Ravens 9th in power rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens were 11/18 on third down in win over Broncos

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Lardarius Webb ‘star’ for Ravens in win

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens may have done ‘favor’ to Steelers by exposing Broncos

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Terrell Suggs thought Jarret Johnson’s early sack ‘really big’

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to Raleigh

The Official Site offers complete Maryland-NC State release (pdf)

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Don Brown’s D-Line has improved throughout season

The Diamondback has Terps 12th in ACC

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Maryland/Virginia Tech to kick off at 1pm next Saturday

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps, Wolfpack battling to avoid being worst team in ACC

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says Wise DE Rashaan Moore committed to Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps-Hokies headed to ESPN360

Sporting News’ Matt Hayes has Terps 12th in power rankings

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich has Terps 11th in power rankings

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Charles Bankins thinks Travis Baltz ‘cerebral’ (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Claire Knudsen profiles freshman Travis Hawkins (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Birchenough says Bergen Catholic lineman Zach Sparber has been ‘hearing from’ Maryland (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s exhibition opener with Indiana University (Pennsylvania)

The Official Site offers complete Terps-Crimson Hawks preview (pdf)

The Sun’s Jeff Barker expects more inside scoring from Dino Gregory

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Vasquez was surprised to see Cal, Georgia Tech ranked ahead of Maryland in AP poll

The Sun’s David Zurawik says ESPN’s “30 For 30” series tackling Len Bias death tonight

Examiner Matthew Bouchard not happy with University’s new policy for student ticket scanning

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Joe Lombardi’s IUP team should be ‘pretty good’ this season

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Greivis Vasquez knows Terps ‘can’t wait’ to face someone else tonight

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says games like tonight’s becoming rare as teams shift to more closed scrimmages

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Hawks’ roster includes Boston College transfer Akida McLain

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Vasquez, Eric Hayes impressed by improvement of Gregory, Adrian Bowie

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Goins won’t play or practice until talking to his doctor

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Lakewood (NJ) prospect Jarrod Davis could be on Terps’ 2011 radar (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman says whether or not to start Eric Hayes biggest question facing Gary Williams in exhibition game

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says former Tiger Dwayne Purnell passed away last week

TOWSON LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Tigers assistant Nadelen named to Team USA

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to South Bend

The Official Site offers complete Midshipmen-Fighting Irish release (pdf)

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Mids lost to Owls ‘in trenches’

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Marcus Curry probable for Notre Dame Saturday

South Bend Tribune’s Jim Meenan says Ricky Dobbs, Midshipmen will bring ‘confidence’ to game against Irish

Go Mids offers Navy-Temple report card (must subscribe)

UMBC LACROSSE:

The Official Site says former Retrievers Westervelt, Mundorf named to Team USA

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Andrew Geisert honored by ACFC

SALISBURY LACROSSE:

The Official Site says former Sea Gull Eric Martin named to 2010 US National Team

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird worked 5 furlongs Monday in preparation for this weekend’s Breeders’ Cup Classic

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Woolley thought Mine That Bird ‘sharper’ in Monday work at Santa Anita

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says AIFA team re-signed Jamaal Stokes

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

Terps in the NFL Week 8……

-Browns LB Eric Barton had 2 tackles in a 30-6 loss to the Bears
-49ers TE Vernon Davis had 3 catches for 20 yards and a TD in an 18-14 loss to the Colts
-Vikings TE Jeff Dugan had 1 catch for 2 yards and a TD in a 38-26 win over the Packers
-Eagles LB Moise Fokou had 2 tackles (1 solo) in a 40-17 win over the Giants
-Ravens CB Domonique Foxworth had 2 tackles (2 solo) and defended 2 passes in a 30-7 win over the Broncos
-Dolphins TE Joey Haynos had 2 catches for 20 yards and a TD in a 30-25 win over the Jets
-Vikings LB E.J. Henderson had 2 tackles (2 solo) in a 38-26 win over the Packers
-Vikings LB Erin Henderson had 2 tackles (2 solo) in a 38-26 win over the Packers
-Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey had 1 catch for 10 yards in a 24-16 loss to the Chargers
-Chargers LB Shawne Merriman had 7 tackles (7 solo, 2 sacks) in a 24-16 win over the Raiders
-Jaguars P Adam Podlesh punted 7 times for 309 yards (44.1 avg) and 2 inside the 20 in a 30-13 loss to the Titans
-Dolphins DT Randy Starks had 7 tackles (7 solo, 1 sack) in a 30-25 win over the Jets
-Vikings S Madieu Williams had 5 tackles (4 solo) in a 38-26 win over the Packers
-Seahawks CB Josh Wilson had 2 tackles (1 solo) and defended a pass in a 38-17 loss to the Cowboys

-Former Morgan State TE Visanthe Shiancoe had 1 catch for 12 yards and a TD in the Vikings’ 38-26 win over the Packers
-Former Morgan State RB Chad Simpson had 1 catch for -1 yards in the Colts’ 18-14 win over the 49ers

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Is it sad to hear that no current Orioles attended the Brooks Robinson event last night? Sure. It is surprising? Not at all. Am I angry about it? Of course not. It’s just another day in Birdland.

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Harbaugh reached out to Samari Rolle, but didn’t get response

Nestor Aparicio says no current Orioles attended Brooks Robinson event

Chris Pika says Ravens ‘fortunate’ to have 3 games left with Steelers, Bengals

Bob Haynie enjoyed trip to Durham despite pathetic performance by Terps

Drew Forrester says Nestor Aparicio dispatched of Kimmie Meissner in Sun Celebrity Smackdown

Derek Arnold says Tavares Gooden, Haruki Nakamura, Tom Zbikowski, Lardarius Webb might be able to help at safety

Glenn Clark doesn’t think Maryland football capable of beating much of anyone

Drew Forrester explains why sources in Owings Mills different than nameless internet commentators

Glenn Clark picks Carmelo Anthony to be NBA MVP

Ed Frankovic says Flyers visit Capitals tonight at Verizon Center

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh thinks Ravens need to ‘win games’ to make playoffs

The Official Site’s John Eisenberg says Ravens have little margin for error in tough AFC North

The Official Site says Harbs believes Brian Dawkins ‘emotional leader’ of Broncos defense

The Official Site offers Halloween stencils

Denver Broncos Official Site says McDaniels views Flacco as QB who can ‘read field’, ‘understand coverages’, ‘attack defensive weaknesses’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens facing Broncos, Bengals, Browns in next 3 weeks as all are coming off bye

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Flacco, Gaither, Jarret Johnson benefitted from bye week to get healthy

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ngata put in ‘hard labor’ before NFL career

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed, Ray Lewis ‘culprits’ when it comes to taking too many risks

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh thinks McDaniels hire has ‘paid off pretty well’ for Broncos

The AP says Broncos made roster move Monday, switching from punter Brett Kern to Mitch Berger

Denver Post’s Lindsay Jones says Spencer Larsen returned to action for Broncos

Denver Post’s Lindsay Jones says Ravens sport 2 former Broncos in Domonique Foxworth, Trevor Pryce

Sporting News’ Clifton Brown has Ravens 13th in power rankings

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio has Ravens 13th in power rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker says health ‘key’ for Ravens rest of season

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terps fell to Fork Union in JV game Monday

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Ralph believes Tommy Galt, Deege Galt, Carl Russell, Antwine Perez, Lamar Young should be ready to return

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says DB Anthony Green played QB for the Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says game time for NC State game won’t be announced until Sunday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Barbour had extra point blocked in JV loss to FUMA

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says future Terps Lorne Goree, David Mackall didn’t play for Fork Union in JV game

Sporting News’ Matt Hayes has Terps 12th in ACC power rankings

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says James Franklin will have to correct Friedgen’s recruiting mistakes

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says AJ Green, Louis Berman, Mike Salvatico hoping JV game may have earned them varsity playing time (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Vellano starting to make impact (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says prospect Sterling Gibbs ‘solid’ (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says James Padgett ‘strong’ in first performance in College Park (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Danny Miller says Jordan Williams not as strong as James Padgett in hoops scrimmage

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Terps picked to finish 5th in ACC

ACC Official Site says Maryland received 3 first place votes

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says North Carolina, Duke, Florida State, Virginia picked ahead of Maryland

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Frese’s recruiting ability will keep Terps from going through ‘rebuilding’ season

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s showdown with Temple

The Official Site offers complete Midshipmen-Owls release (pdf)

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Ricky Dobbs likely to miss Temple game

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Vince Murray ‘on a roll’ for Midshipmen

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids have 14 wins against BCS opponents since ‘03

Go Mids grades Mids for performance against Wake Forest (must subscribe)

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Kemar Scarlett honored by MEAC

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Tigers’ single game tickets on sale now

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Blue Jays to open season February 19 against Manhattan

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Jays have 13 TV games between ESPNU/ESPN2/CBS College Sports

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Brandon Hudson, Matt McMurdo, Tommy Kowalick honored by ACFC

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says ‘plan’ for Uehara is to be setup man or closer

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Brooks Robinson honored last night at Meyerhoff

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Josh Bell scored 2 runs for Phoenix Desert Dogs in Arizona Fall League action Monday

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says AIFA team brought back DB Armar Watson

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Steve Andersen says Belmont winner Summer Bird breezed in preparation for Breeders Cup Classic

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

Terps in the NFL in Week 7…..

-Browns LB Eric Barton tallied 7 tackles (5 solo) in a 31-3 loss to the Packers
-49ers TE Vernon Davis had 7 catches for 93 yards and 3 TD’s in a 24-21 loss to the Texans
-Eagles LB Moise Fokou had 2 tackles (1 solo) in a 27-17 win over the Redskins
-Vikings LB EJ Henderson had 7 tackles (5 solo) and defended 1 pass in a 27-17 loss to the Steelers
-Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey had 2 catches for 28 yards in a 38-0 loss to the Jets
-49ers QB Shaun Hill was 6/11 for 45 yards and rushed once for 2 yards in a 24-21 loss to the Texans
-Chargers LB Shawne Merriman had 5 tackles (5 solo, 1 TFL) in a 37-7 win over the Chiefs
-Dolphins DT Randy Starks had 7 tackles (1 solo, .5 sacks) in a 46-34 loss to the Saints
-Vikings S Madieu Williams has 3 tackles (2 solo) in a 27-17 loss to the Steelers

Morgan State Bears in the NFL Week 7….
-Vikings TE Visanthe Shiancoe had 4 catches for 27 yards in a 27-17 loss to the Steelers
-Colts RB Chad Simpson rushed 3 times for 35 yards and a TD and added 1 catch for 2 yards in a 42-6 win over the Rams

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

The invitation is out there. If John Turner would like to come on with us (or just respond personally to my follow-up email) regarding our questions about his statements regarding Debbie Yow, I’d be happy to rescind my statements regarding him. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, I invite you to head over to the Audio Vault at WNST.net to listen to this morning’s “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers” segment.

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

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Harbaugh originally planned to have Ravens practice today as well

Drew Forrester says Ravens fans need bye week as much as Ravens players

Derek Arnold says Flacco, Ray Rice ‘played like a Raven’ in loss to Vikings

Ed Frankovic says Semin may miss Caps’ game against Thrashers tonight

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco missed practice this week with swollen ankle

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Frank Walker knows he needs to ‘improve’ after 2 pass interference calls in loss to Vikings

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ray Rice so good even some people in front office surprised

The Official Site says Harbs went out of his way to defend Oher in final press conference before bye week

The Official Site says Lardarius Webb has been learning from Ed Reed, Domonique Foxworth, Fabian Washington, Frank Walker

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Flacco rolled right ankle after Jared Allen stepped on left ankle

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ray Rice leads NFL with 766 yards from scrimmage

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Derrick Mason brings passion to football field AND radio show

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh thinks Oher has ‘tremendous respect’ for Jared Allen

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Le’Ron McClain has reached out to Lorenzo Neal for advice

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens smart to mix in young D-Linemen Brandon McKinney, Dwan Edwards

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Webb getting ‘comfortable’ in kick return, nickel back roles

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says contracts restructured for Kelly Gregg, Jarret Johnson

NFL.com’s Pat Kirwan says Harbaugh doesn’t necessarily think Ravens have become throwing team

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio says Flacco thinks ankle ‘not a big deal’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco competing with Roethlisberger, Carson Palmer to make Pro Bowl behind Tom Brady, Peyton Manning

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Foxworth amongst biggest ‘underachievers’ in AFC North

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Nancy Johnston thinks school should stick with “Fear The Turtle”

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Debbie Yow surprised by John Turner’s comments

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Fridge still thinks Terps can be Top 25 annually

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says James Franklin doesn’t think Terps better with Jamarr Robinson under center than Chris Turner

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps may run more ‘Wild Turtle’ with Torrey Smith

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Cavaliers wouldn’t kick towards Torrey Smith last Saturday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Charles Bankins thinks Nick Ferrara will benefit from having Travis Baltz back

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner just ‘misunderstood’ Ralph’s comments about Robinson, Danny O’Brien

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Pinegar went from walk-on hopeful to O-Line commodity in short time period

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Devils might put a ton of points up Saturday in Durham

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich thinks Terps will win ‘1 or 2’ more games

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says Adrian Moten lifted spirits in practice Monday by crashing offensive huddle (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says Turner admitted to feeling ‘insecure’ after loss to Cavs (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ben Pooler stepping up for Terps (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman says Duke’s Thaddeus Lewis will provide Terps with another ‘test’ defensively

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings says Porzel rare highlight in Maryland’s loss to Virginia

Turtle Sports Report’s Scott Kornberg checks in with ’11 prospect Ron Buchanan-Vernon Davis’ cousin (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Scott Kornberg says ’11 prospect Sheldon Royster interested in Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Gary Williams feels Lindy’s ranking ‘vindication’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Jack Heise to be honored by team daily in practice

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps to participate in next year’s Coaches vs. Cancer Classic

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary wants to fly to away games besides UVa

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Gbinije amongst best of ’11 prospects (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Midshipmen to celebrate Halloween against Temple next Saturday at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Ricky Dobbs could still play Saturday against WFU

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Niumatalolo to make decision on Ricky Dobbs today

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids 12th in NCAA on 3rd down

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids have lost 3 straight Homecoming games-all to BCS opponents

Winston-Salem Journal’s Dan Collins says Josh Bush succeeding at safety for Demon Deacons

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Ivin Jasper thinks Kriss Proctor similar to Kaheaku-Enhada

Go Mids’ Chris Rohe breaks down individual Navy-Wake Forest matchups (must subscribe)

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Tigers to go ‘Green’ next Saturday against Richmond

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Bears RB Devan James thinks George Howard playing like ‘monster’

MCDANIEL FOOTBALL:

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Terror still ‘adjusting’ to new DC Mike Dailey

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Alden Gonzalez says Josh Bell, Brandon Snyder making strong case for Birds’ open corner infield positions in Arizona Fall League

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says scout Deron Rombach left organization to join Braves

The Sun says Cal Ripken to attend Brooks Robinson tribute

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Snyder homered twice, drove in 7 for Phoenix Desert Dogs in win

Examiner Jay Trucker says Bell’s success in AFL, Sherrill’s struggles in NLCS making trade look pretty good for O’s

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Saturday’s De Francis Dash at Laurel Park ‘2nd chance’ for Vineyard Haven

The Sun says Fleet Valid 2nd choice for De Francis Dash behind Vineyard Haven

SWIMMING:

Washington Post’s Amy Shipley says Michael Phelps endorses PureSport even amidst questions about supplements

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says AIFA team named front office posts

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-No reason to be concerned about Joe Flacco’s ankle. Which is kinda difficult to say because he has the most important ankles in the entire city of Baltimore.

Here’s an update on Terps in the NFL through Week 6…..

-Browns LB Eric Barton has tallied 49 tackles (31 solo, 1 TFL) and 2 pass defenses
-49ers TE Vernon Davis has 22 catches for 262 yards and 3 TD’s
-Vikings TE Jeff Dugan has 2 catches for 26 yards and 2 rushes for 7 yards
-Eagles LB Moise Fokou has 2 tackles (2 solo)
-Ravens CB Domonique Foxworth has 13 tackles (1 TFL), 1 INT (13 return yards) and 6 pass defenses
-Dolphins TE Joey Haynos has 2 catches for 38 yards
-Vikings LB E.J. Henderson has 47 tackles (36 solo, 3 TFL)
-Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey has 2 catches for 36 yards and 2 rushes for 19 yards
-49ers QB Shaun Hill is 81/144 for 898 yards, 5 TD’s and 2 INT’s
-Browns LB D’Qwell Jackson has 59 tackles (46 solo, 2 TFL), forced 1 fumble, and has 2 pass defenses
-Jets DT Kris Jenkins has 13 tackles (11 solo, 4 TFL)-but will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL
-Broncos RB LaMont Jordan has rushed 20 times for 59 yards
-Chargers LB Shawne Merriman has 13 tackles (6 solo)
-Jaguars P Adam Podlesh has punted 27 times for 1,103 yards (40.9 yard average), inside 20 8 times
-Dolphins DT Randy Starks has 12 tackles (11 solo, 1 TFL)
-Vikings S Madieu Williams has 26 tackles (24 solo, 1 TFL) and defended 1 pass
-Seahawks CB Josh Wilson has 16 tackles (15 solo), 1 sack and defended 4 passes
-Redskins CB Kevin Barnes, Raiders LS Jon Condo, Ravens OT Jared Gaither, Vikings LB Erin Henderson, Redskins OT Stephon Heyer, Buccaneers DT Dre Moore, and Redskins OL Edwin Williams have not tallied statistics or play positions that don’t tally statistics

Also….
-Former Morgan State TE Visanthe Shiancoe has 17 catches for 164 yards and 5 TD’s for the Vikings
-Former Morgan State RB Chad Simpson has rushed 3 times for 9 yards for the Colts

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

9-1 huh?says some in Cleveland still trying to keep Modell out

You say something. I’ve got nothing.

But we can see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio

Luke Jones says Ed Reed not wearing red practice jersey again

Rex Snider says Gano/Hauschka winner will have ‘big shoes to fill’ in Stover

Bob Haynie ‘worried’ about Ravens’ WR situation

Rex Snider says more fans going to Westminster for Camp than OPACY for Birds

Glenn Clark says Redskins game amongst highlights of non-football week

ORIOLES:says Guthrie roughed up by Athletics’ lineup in loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bergesen gets in first work since injury

Athletics Official Site says Gio Gonzalez shut down Birds as A’s picked up win

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 14,688 at Camden Yards saw A’s top Birds

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Tillman expects to make Friday start despite groin injury

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Brian Roberts hoping for good turnout for ESPN Zone event Sunday

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds must be ‘prepared to compete for one of the best free agent starters on the market’ in offseason

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Guthrie first American League pitcher to lose 12 games

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Chad Moeller ‘likely’ to start today after Wieters made 5 straight starts

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says former Keys pitcher Matusz trying to ‘soak in’ MLB experience

The AP says Luke Scott homered for Orioles’ only run of game

San Francisco Chronicle’s Susan Slusser says Mark Ellis had 5 hits, 4 RBI for A’s in win

Oakland Tribune’s Curtis Pashelka says Breslow strong for A’s in relief to help A’s win

Fox Sports’ Aram Tolegian has Birds 27th in power rankings

ESPN.com has Birds 25th in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:says Justin Turner lead Tides with 3 hits, lone RBI in loss to Scranton

Norfolk Tides Official Site

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Erbe honored by Eastern League

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Oliver Drake loser as Shorebirds fell to Charleston

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says game with Pulaski suspended due to rain

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Andy Mitchell took loss as Yankees topped Tides

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Brandon Snyder honored by International League, Widlansky honored by Carolina League

Virginian-Pilot says Freddy Guzman made debut with Tides

RAVENS:says LB Gooden faces ‘high expectations’ this season

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy

The Official Site says Cam Cameron hoping Flacco throws ‘completions’ vs. Redskins Thursday night

The Official Site announces changes at M&T Bank Stadium for ’09 season

The Official Site says Maryland lottery kicked off Ravens scratch-off Monday

The Official Site says all preseason games-including Monday Night Football game on ESPN-to be carried locally by WBAL11

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Justin Harper improving thanks to time spent with Mark Clayton

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Matt Birk lost 15 pounds, needed IV after practice due to heat

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Hauschka hit 5 of 6 FG attempts, Gano hit 4-5; each missing from 54

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Lardarius Webb proving to be amongst ‘best athletes on team’

The Sun’s Mike Preston says RB Parmele has had ‘impressive’ Training Camp

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Jared Gaither, Ernie Wheelwright didn’t practice Monday afternoon

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Derrick Mason gave football to fan during practice after nice catch

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Greg Mattison intends to use more ‘base defense’ than Rex Ryan

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ray Rice ‘cramped up’ after morning practice due to heat

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Marcus Smith believes ‘thinking too much’ reason for making no catches in rookie season

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Todd Heap, Demetrius Williams remaining ‘cautious’, missed Monday practice with injuries

Carroll County Times’ Daniel Henderson says rookie DE VanDeSteeg ‘making impression’ on Ravens

Sporting News’ Mike Florio says if 52 doesn’t get into Hall of Fame on first ballot, ‘no one should’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Harper-or someone-needs to step up at WR

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Gooden trying to ‘uphold legacy’

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:says Cody Blue moved from D-Line to O-Line

The Official Site

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says coach Lee Hull believes Terps have 9 guys who could all start at WR

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph reported Mike Barbour had won kicking competition in Spring, but faces new competition before season starts

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Dion Armstrong’s eligibility status still in question

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Friedgen believes success of Turner ‘critical’ to Terps’ success

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Ralph Friedgen has lost over 100 pounds, but doesn’t want that to be story of team

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says LB Adrian Moten enjoying new DC Don Brown’s scheme

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Lee-Odai to miss start of camp with ankle injury

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Turner thinks former Terp DHB getting unfair criticism

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps returned just 10 starters-fewest in ACC

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Ralph believes Terps need D-Linemen Travis Ivey, Derek Drummond, Deege Galt, Jared Harrell ‘need to step up’

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says C.J. Brown, Danny O’Brien competing for 3rd QB job behind Turner, Jamarr Robinson

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says A.J. Francis believes D-Linemen get ‘more love’ in Don Brown’s system

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Ralph doesn’t want players going overboard in first workouts

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Ralph also thinks Ian Davidson, Zach Kerr can contribute on D-Line

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Ralph knows he can’t just ‘replace’ speed of DHB

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps’ O-Line ‘untested’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says James Franklin knows Offensive success has to start with O-Line

Washington Times’ Dick Heller says Ralph needs to make Terps ‘consistent and entertaining winner’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps delayed start of first practice due to heat

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Adrian Cannon will be split end

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Lamar Young ‘lucky’ on first day of practice

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says at Media Day, WNST’s Glenn Clark did something embarrassing (nothing surprising there)says lights went out on Friedgen again

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph thinks Cody Blue will ‘get bigger’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Torrey Smith, Richard Taylor cramped up in heat during first practice

Washington Examiner’s Rick Snider says Terps must improve to fill extra seats at Byrd Stadium

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Tony Logan getting shot to replace Oquendo returning kicks

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich has Terps 9th in initial power rankings

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says German import DE prospect Bjoern Werner visited College Park (must subscribe)says LB Wujciak believes Terps using low projections as ‘motivation’ (must subscribe)says Terps moved around D-Linemen Masengo Kabongo, Jared Harrell (must subscribe)says Terps have to replace both DHB, Oquendo

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty says Terps playing ‘no respect’ card

Scout.com’s Dan Hilbert says Gwynn Park DE prospect Jerome June camped with Terps

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:says Terps fighting North Carolina, Indiana, Kansas, Florida, Georgetown for Terrence Jones

The Sun’s Matt Bracken

TOWSON FOOTBALL:says Ambrose opened first fall practice as Tigers coach amidst heat Monday

The Official Site

NAVY FOOTBALL:says Tyler Simmons moving up defensive depth chart

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner

UMES BASKETBALL:says Hawks’ schedule highlighted by trips to Marquette, Nebraska, Oklahoma

The Official Site

HORSE RACING:says Derby winner Mine That Bird put in impressive work at Saratoga

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening

Thoroughbred Times’ Phil Janack says Mine That Bird worked half mile in 48.22 under jockey Jamie Theriot

The Sun says Mine That Bird preparing for Shadwell Travers at Saratoga

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:says Palace eliminated from playoff contention

Examiner Jeff Hemelt

GOLF:says future of Constellation Energy Group’s association with Senior Players Championship could be in jeopardy after 2011

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I’ll have more later today from Maryland Football Media Day, including the videos I shot with multiple players.

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

Brian Matusz was AWESOME.

The best thing about Brian Matusz’s performance last night was that it was the type of performance that didn’t include a lot of “buts”. He did struggle with his pitch count and had to get some help from Cesar Izturis to avoid giving up multiple runs in the 2nd; but his stuff was absolutely incredible.

It doesn’t mean his tenure in Baltimore will be unblemished. But it certainly was exciting to watch last night. We haven’t had enough of those.

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

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says Birds ‘more compelling’ than Ravens

Nestor Aparicio says even Melvin Mora added RBI as Birds ‘piled on’ Tigers

Luke Jones says Grubbs still battling injuries in Westminster

Drew Forrester says Matusz resembled Cliff Lee in win

Glenn Clark says Oher movie “The Blind Side” gets trailer

Eric Aaronson believes ‘hype’ surrounding Matusz

Tom Clayton thinks Orioles’ 2009 season will be remembered differently in future

Rex Snider says Mora linked to steroids by RotoInfo.com (apparently Rex missed it A WEEK AGO when Drew and I read this list on the air. Ball’s in your court, Snider.)

Jerry Reinhardt thinks Birds should sign Glavine in offseason

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Matusz sparkled in debut to lead Birds past Tigers

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jeremy Guthrie goes to hill tonight vs. Edwin Jackson, Detroit

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jason Berken ‘still expected to make his next start’ Friday

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Adam Jones hit from cleanup spot last night

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says veterans Huff, Roberts support MacPhail’s rebuilding plan

Tigers Official Site’s Mike Scott says Jarrod Washburn struggled in Detroit debut

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Matusz joins Uehara, Bergesen, Berken, Hernandez as Birds who have won first major league start this season

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Mickolio sent down to make room for Matusz

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Birds have made no progress in negotiations with 2nd round pick Mychal Givens

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Matusz threw 99 pitches over 5 innings in win

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Mora returned to 3rd base in win

The AP says Izturis, Markakis homered for Birds in win at Comerica Park

Detroit Free Press’ John Lowe says nearly 30,000 saw Birds top Tigers at Comerica Park

Detroit News’ Tom Gage says Matusz threw 27 pitches in 2nd, 30 in 3rd, but Tigers couldn’t take advantage

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

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Brandon Snyder collected 3 hits, scored 2 runs for Tides in win over Syracuse

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Krynzel homered for Baysox in win over New Hampshire

Frederick Keys Official Site says Widlansky homered for Frederick in win over Potomac

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

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Jake Cowan winner as Ironbirds topped State College

Bluefield Orioles Official Site says Gary Helmick homered for Bluefield in win over Greeneville

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Kenny Moreland won first start since being called up from Aberdeen

Virginian-Pilot’s Darrel Cuenca says Andy Mitchell got no decision after rough start vs. Syracuse

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Adam Terry went to IR with right knee injury that required surgery

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says veteran Birk still ‘adjusting’ to Vikings

The Official Site says Harbaugh thinks Troy (Smith) ‘a football player’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Pryce played in offseason soccer league to stay in shape

The Sun’s Edward Lee and Ken Murray say Clayton, Suggs, Ayanbadejo, Lamar Divens all missed practice Tuesday

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Gano perfect, Hauschka 4 or 5 Tuesday

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Derrick Mason brought back ‘confidence and fire’ with return

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Kelley Washington did 52 dance impression during practice

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Ngata ‘nightmare’, ‘absolute beast’

Carroll County Times’ Daniel Henderson says Mark Clayton ‘taking precautions’ with hamstring injury

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says starting RT job ‘exclusively’ Oher’s with Terry hurt

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Bart Scott was grateful to play alongside Ngata in Baltimore

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Da’Rel Scott named preseason Doak Walker Award candidate

Tribune Newspapers’ Sam Farmer says DHB under ‘pressure’ with Raiders

Washington Post’s Josh Barr says former Penn State CB commit Darrell Givens not interested in coming to Maryland

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Wujciak’s health amongst camp questions for Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Da’Rel Scott trying to join Wycocki as only Maryland backs with back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Ralph 16-17 vs. ACC teams on road

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Terps talking to Archbishop Carroll rush end prospect Attaochu (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Terps to face Chaminade in first round of Maui Invitational

The Sun says Maryland-Chaminade to air on ESPNU

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Colorado, Gonzaga, Arizona, Wisconsin all playing in Maui as well

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps could face Lance Stephenson, Cincinnati in 2nd round of Maui Invitational

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps to face Cincinnati or Vanderbilt in 2nd round of Maui Invitational

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Fairfield, St. John’s, Georgia Tech, Auburn, South Carolina all also involved with prospect Tsafack (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter profiles Wisconsin guard prospect Josh Gasser (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty chats with ’10 prospect Justin Jackson (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Official Site says Jeff Reynolds, Brian Phipps amongst 7 Terps named to Academic All-ACC team

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Bears holding Media Day Sunday at Hughes Stadium

LOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says J’hared Hall to represent USA on Global Sports Academy All-Star squad

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site’s Christian Swezey says Mids adding anchor to one sleeve of jersey, Marine Corps logo to other sleeve

The Official Site says Niumatalolo knows Mids facing ‘most challenging schedule’ of his entire time at Naval Academy

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says about 1,000 fans attended FanFest Monday at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says safety Middleton doesn’t think Dobbs will completely avoid all contact before season starts

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Niumatalolo limiting Dobbs’ contact due to lack of QB depth this season

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Mike Welsch says Quality Road will run Travers Stakes next

The AP says Kendall Jackson creating wine to honor Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra

BOXING:

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Mark “TNT” Tucker to fight for USBO light heavyweight title in Westminster Sept. 25

SWIMMING:

CBS Sports’ Gregg Doyel says Phelps, Bowman hypocritical in swimsuit complaints

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-The loss of Adam Terry will be unfortunate for the Ravens for many reasons; including their unbalanced line scenarios. But unlike other years, this team is absolutely better put together with O-Line depth.

-Looking at the Maui Invitational Field, Maryland has at least a puncher’s chance to win the thing. Gonzaga must be the favorite; but Maryland should be able to advance to the final with some ease.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

I’ll make a weekend pick for you.

The Birds will lose 2 of 3 to the Red Sox.

Thoughts on the Sherrill deal?

I’m not moved that much either way. Sherrill was pretty good, so it will be unfortunate to lose him. But if these kids can play, no one will be angry about the deal.

Reed wearing the red “no contact” jersey in practice?

Probably a precautionary measure.

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

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Luke Jones says Oher ‘story of triumph over tragedy’

Nestor Aparicio says Josh Bell hit .296 with 11 home runs, 52 RBI for Chattanooga

Luke Jones says Ravens added WR Thomas White from Baylor

Drew Forrester wishes Birds ‘buying’ instead of ‘selling’

Nestor Aparicio says every hitter in Orioles lineup got hit in win

Lawson Lambert says Terps already starting season with good news, bad news

Glenn Clark says new Towson coach Ambrose knows ‘Perception is reality’

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bergesen left game in 7th, but lead Birds to victory over Royals beforehand

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Sherrill traded to Dodgers for prospects Joshua Bell, Steve Johnson

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Chris Ray, Sarfate may be nearing returns from rehab

Royals Official Site’s Dick Kaegel says Hochevar loser as O’s topped Royals

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Steve Johnson son of former Oriole Dave Johnson, St. Paul’s graduate

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 19,000 at Camden Yards saw Birds earn series split with Royals

The Sun’s Dan Connolly and Jeff Zrebiec say Jim Johnson ‘expected’ to get first chance to replace Sherrill as closer

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Red Sox will throw Smoltz, Beckett, Buchholz this weekend in Baltimore

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck understands skepticism towards Rich Hill injury

The Sun’s Lorraine Mirabella says Ripken Foundation to build youth ballpark at Memorial Stadium site

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says trading another veteran ‘unlikely’ for Birds

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck thinks trade means Birds planning on holding on to Mora or Huff for another season

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Wieters extended hitting streak to 7 in win

Examiner Jay Trucker says ‘Flat Breezy’ gets chance to play for contender in Los Angeles

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says both Bell, Johnson assigned to Bowie

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Bergesen was on crutches after game, but X-rays were negative

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Rockies reportedly interested in Hendrickson

The AP says Birds will recall Mickolio to take Sherrill’s roster spot

The AP says Wigginton homered for Birds in win

Kansas City Star’s Bob Dutton says John Buck homered for Royals in loss

LA Times’ Dylan Hernandez says Sherrill excited to be in playoff race

Yahoo! Sports’ Tim Brown has Birds 26th in power rankings

Yahoo! Sports’ Gordon Edes says Sherrill will be setup man for Broxton with Dodgers

SI’s Ted Keith has Birds 24th in power rankings

Fox Sports’ Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi say Birds WON’T trade Hendrickson to Rockies

ESPN.com’s Rob Neyer impressed that Birds managed to swap reliever for two prospects

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Andy Mitchell loser as Norfolk fell to Indianapolis

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Erbe ‘impressive’ in no decision, but Baysox fell to Connecticut

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Kenny Moreland improved to 6-1 with win over Hudson Valley

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Brandon Snyder, Justin Turner, Jeff Fiorentino each tallied RBI for Tides in loss to Indians

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says St. Paul’s grad Steve Johnson joins McDonough grad Erbe with Baysox

Frederick News-Post says Keys’ game in Lynchburg suspended in 4th due to rain

Virginian-Pilot’s Rainer Sabin says Tides catcher Robby Hammock thinks Andy Mitchell will ‘pitch in big leagues’

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Kruger has to ‘take back seat’ to Suggs, try to earn playing time

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says McGahee, Grubbs off PUP list, Kelley Washington headed to it

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Newsome spent summer reading Oher book ‘Blind Side’

The Official Site says Tuesday special women’s fan club gathering at Training Camp

The Official Site says Oher ‘felt like he let team down’ by not being in Westminster Monday

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Oher gets $7.8 million guaranteed

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says WR, kicking battles amongst interesting storylines as full Camp opens

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Kelley Washington on PUP list due to flu

The Sun’s Mike Preston says fans arrived at McDaniel College this morning before 6am

The Sun’s Mike Preston says with Gaither and Oher, Ravens putting together ‘dominating’ offensive line

The AP says status of McNair’s Foundation up in air

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Oher’s deal has total maximum value of $13.795 million

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Reed placed on PUP list

SI’s John Lopez says Kruger ‘story of perseverance’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens’ crowded secondary ‘good problem to have’

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun says former Terp Heyward-Bey signs guaranteed $23.5 million deal with Raiders

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says ’08 first team All-ACC’er Da’Rel Scott left off preseason list

Washington Post’s Zach Berman says DC could be considered for ACC Championship Game

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Terp Stephen Smalls could make impact with Rhode Island this season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says ‘much of (Terps’) hopes pinned on (Chris) Turner’

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Gossett Team House part of reason Terps honored by Princeton Review

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says ATH prospect/would-be Georgia commit Devin Burns now considering Terps (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty says Archbishop Carroll coach Houchens thinks new Terps commit Nate Clarke farther ahead than Jared Gaither at this point in prep career

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh profiles prospect James Johnson from Las Vegas (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh profiles target Mychal Parker from Las Vegas (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh profiles target Terrence Jones from Las Vegas (must subscribe)

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Kennedy added former Kentucky player, coach Allen Edwards to staff

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site offers complete preseason release (pdf)

The Official Site says Midshipmen to speak to Severna Park youth football players

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Army looks more and more like Navy (must subscribe)

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird will be ‘odds on favorite’ to win tomorrow’s West Virginia Derby

Daily Racing Form’s Mike Farrell says Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra 4-5 favorite for Haskell Invitational

Thoroughbred Times’ Tim Nichols says Summer Bird trainer Ice expects to give Rachel Alexandra ‘run for her money’

SWIMMING:

Tribune Newspapers’ Lisa Dillman says Lochte topped Phelps’ record in 200 medley

Washington Post’s Amy Shipley says rival Cavic thinks Phelps should get high tech swimsuit

USA Today’s Vicki Michaelis says Cavic thinks Phelps should wear Arena X-Glide on Jaked J01 suit

USA Today’s Vicki Michaelis says Phelps cheered on Lochte from stands in Rome

The AP’s Paul Newberry says Cavic thinks Phelps just being ‘loyal’ to Speedo

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Palace to scrimmage college stars team at Baltimore International Festival this weekend

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Gotta get to Westminster, maybe to introduce myself to Al Saunders.

Talk to you this weekend.

-G

It’s getting close to silly season again. I’m not surprised by the struggles of some of the guys in the Orioles lineup the way some people are. It is difficult to get amped up for baseball games that don’t really matter.

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

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio says Birds ‘sloppy’ in loss to Mariners

Drew Forrester says Trembley should have used Pie as pinch runner in 9th inning of loss

Rex Snider feels ‘slighted’ by Brady Anderson’s Angelos comments

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Bergesen solid, but Mariners rally to beat Birds

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Uehara has good side session, could return next Wednesday

MLB.com’s Doug Miller says Huff’s would-be home run overturned in first inning

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley to ‘consider’ Walker’s status today

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says after day off today; Guthrie, Birds visit Braden, Athletics tomorrow

MLB.com’s Doug Miller says Beltre hits 2 run homer, gets game winning RBI for M’s in win over O’s

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Jolbert Cabrera’s 2 run double lifts Tides past Buffalo

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Deza hit hard as Baysox fall to Trenton

Frederick Keys Official Site says Nery falls to 0-3 as Lynchburg sweeps Frederick

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Jim Johnson takes loss in relief

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Moeller cleared waivers, sent to Norfolk

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Mora was forced to swing at every pitch in 9th

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Trembley’s decisions ‘knocked the wind out of potential rallies’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Reimold, Huff each made baserunning blunders in loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds have ‘little interest’ in bringing Glavine to Baltimore

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Birds now 0-8 in series finales on road this season

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman remembers Jim Palmer’s pancakes

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Bobby Livingston threw 7 scoreless innings for Norfolk, but Tides took loss

Examiner Jay Trucker says Mariners take 2 of 3 from Birds in Seattle

Examiner Steve DeClue says Birds ‘scuffling’ offensively

The AP says 18,650 see Mariners top Birds at Safeco Field

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Caleb Joseph’s 3 run homer not enough as Keys fell to Hillcats

Virginian-Pilot’s Kyle Tucker says Salazar extended hitting streak to 10 in Tides’ loss

Seattle Times’ Geoff Baker says Aardsma got win in relief for Mariners

The AP’s Gregg Bell says Scott homered, added RBI double in loss

Everett Herald’s Kirby Arnold says Franklin Gutierrez scored winning run after hitting triple in 9th

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens working on contract with Oher’s agent Jimmy Sexton

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ngata’s return to OTA’s ‘bumpy’

The Official Site says Ravens partnering with Good Samaritan Hospital, KaBOOM! to build playground

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Ray Rice thinks OTA’s like Owings Mills ‘Summer Camp’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ngata finishing sociology degree

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Ngata taking classes at University of Utah to finish degree

HORSE RACING:

Belmont Official Site’s Jenny Kellner says Woolley ‘fine with’ starting 7th in third leg of Triple Crown

Belmont Official Site’s Jenny Kellner says Belmont jockeys Prado, Velasquez, etc. to visit Ronald McDonald House

Belmont Official Site’s Jenny Kellner says Woolley, Borel, Mine That Bird owners to ring bell at NYSE

Belmont Official Site’s Francis LaBelle Jr. says Borel ‘in the zone’ right now

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Derby, Preakness loser General Quarters underwent surgery to remove chip from right knee

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Kieran McLaughlin hoping ‘patience’ will pay off with Charitable Man

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening says Borel has stayed ‘busy’ since winning Preakness, Derby

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Chocolate Candy to start on rail Saturday

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Mine That Bird flew to Belmont after taking van to Pimlico, Churchill Downs

Thoroughbred Times’ Frank Angst says Lukas’ Flying Private only horse besides Mine That Bird to run in all three legs of Triple Crown

Thoroughbred Times’ Frank Angst says Mine That Bird trying to become first favorite to win Belmont since Afleet Alex

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Charitable Man 2nd pick for Saturday with 3-1 odds

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says internet gambling bill could be favorable to MJC President Chuckas

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Dunkirk to start from 2nd position with 4-1 odds

The AP ‘s Richard Rosenblatt says Mine That Bird trying to become first Derby-Belmont winner since Thunder Gulch in ‘95

Washington Times’ Ryan O’Halloran picks Mine That Bird to win Belmont

Washington Examiner’s Rick Snider picks Charitable Man to win Belmont

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Examiner Steve DeClue says Gary’s ‘hopes’ for Vasquez to return may be factor in his prediction on whether or not he will stay

Examiner Steve DeClue says PBP voice Holliday to enter Maryland Hall of Fame

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says former Terp Toliver took part in “Battle of the Sexes” in Chicago

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

Contra Costa Times says former Terp Heyward-Bey getting healthy, trying to solidify job with Raiders at same time

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh chats with Paint Branch WR/DB prospect Tagoe after campus visit (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem profiles Coolidge prospect Avery Williams (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem profiles New York prospect Dominique Easley (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Phipps to undergo surgery to repair torn ACL on June 16

The Sun’s Edward Lee says return of Farrell will help Terps defensively in ‘10

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says ’09 season ‘defined by uneven play’

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says former Mid Jim Carrington passed away at 84

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says OLB Sudderth dismissed by Mids

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina profiles future SS/OLB Keegan Wetzel (must subscribe)

Scout.com’s Rusty Mansell says Mids interested in Pepperrell (GA) star Marcus Jackson

NAVY LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says assistant Stan Ross has interviewed for Denver job

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says Syracuse’s NCAA Championship tying goal reminiscent to Jake Byrne’s goal in ’05 Final Four

FROSTBURG LACROSSE:

The Sun says Gettysburg assistant Tommy Pearce to coach Frostburg in 2011 return to lacrosse

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Palace to open U.S. Open Cup at Ocean City Barons

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says playoffs ‘goal’ for Mariners

BALTIMORE COLTS:

The Sun’s Ken Murray says former Colt Mike Woods lived ‘positive life’

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Good for Haloti Ngata getting his degree. Maybe I should go finish mine….

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

I gave the Ravens a C+. Please check out my blog below to find out why.gives Ravens ‘C+’ for Draft

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

Best of Sunday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark

Glenn Clark says Ravens add Buffalo QB Willy, Florida State K Gano after Draft

Drew Forrester now thinks Birds will win something like 66 games

Drew Forrester says Ravens found ‘best men’ over weekend

Cliff Saunders thinks Ravens won’t have to worry about Oher for ‘next ten years’

Ed Frankovic says Caps solve Lundqvist, force Game 7 with Rangers

RAVENS:says Ravens select Nicholls State CB Lardarius Webb in 3rd round

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens select TCU LB Jason Phillips in 5th round

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says East Carolina TE Davon Drew selected with second 5th round pick

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens pick Virginia RB Peerman in 6th round

The Official Site’s Kevin Byrne says Oher passes ‘eyeball test’

The Official Site says Newsome thinks Ravens getting ‘real good player, real good person’ in Oher

The Official Site says Pagano visited Nicholls State to get good look at Webb

The Official Site says Webb big fan of Ed Reed

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Oher believes he can be starter

The Sun’s David Steele says many believe Ravens one ‘big play WR’ away from making Super Bowlsays Ravens hoping Webb doesn’t become next David Pittman

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley

The Sun cleans up after me

The Sun’s Rick Maese says former Ole Miss OL Coach Kehoe thinks Oher ‘miracle’

The Sun’s Mike Preston wasn’t trying to question Oher’s intelligence with column

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Oher took ‘long road’ from homeless in Memphis to Ravens’ 1st round pick

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says DeCosta thought Draft about ‘toughness’ for Ravens

The AP says Oher already knows Steelers new enemy

Washington Post’s Mark Maske gave Ravens B+ for Draft

ESPN.com’s Todd McShay says Kruger Ravens’ ‘best pick’, Drew Ravens’ ‘worst pick’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Oher ‘gets it’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Oher not ‘flashy’, but solid selection

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Mel Kiper fan of Lardarius Webb

Fox Sports’ John Czarnecki gives Ravens ‘B-‘ for Draft

SI’s Peter King impressed by Kruger’s ‘motor’

Sporting News’ Clifton Brown gives Ravens ‘C-‘ for Draft

Sporting News’ Albert Breer says WR still Ravens’ area of ‘need’

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco gives Ravens ‘B’ for Draft

Yahoo! Sports’ Jason Cole says size issue for Ravens’ pick Webb

ORIOLES:says Baez rescued Bergesen as Birds topped Rangers

The Official Site’s Jeff Seidel

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Trembley ‘expects’ Mora to return Friday

The Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Bass coming on after very slow start

The Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Guthrie, Birds try to salvage series split tonight vs. Matt Harrison, Rangers

Rangers Official Site’s T.R. Sullivan says Rangers blew early 5-1 advantage in falling to O’s

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Jones blasts 3 run homer as Birds rally to beat Texas

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Markakis extended hitting streak to 13 games in win

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Reimold off to hot start in Norfolk

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Brandon Snyder ‘maturing’ with Baysox

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Markakis’ 21 runs scored top baseball

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Baez could be ‘tradeable’ at midseason

Examiner Steve DeClue says Roberts also added HR in win

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says nearly 23,000 saw Birds top Rangers at Camden Yards

Carroll County Times’ Rich Dubroff says Jamie Walker ‘feels fine’

The AP says Chris Davis, Hank Blalock, David Murphy all homered for Rangers in loss

Frederick News-Post’s Adam Pohl says Rowell had 3 hits for Keys in win

Dallas Morning News’ Jeff Wilson says Brandon McCarthy couldn’t hold on to big lead Rangers gave him

NAVY LACROSSE:says Mids upset Bucknell for Patriot League title

The Official Site

Inside Lacrosse’s Christian Swezey says Mids clinch automatic qualifier to NCAA Tournament with win over Bison

Examiner Tom Flynn says Brendan Connors tallied 3 goals for Mids to clinch Patriot League Championship

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tommy Phelan named MVP of Patriot League Tournament after Mids’ win

NAVY FOOTBALL:says former Mids Kettani, Tyree Barnes sign with Patriots

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina profiles Gateway (PA) RB prospect Brian Williams (must subscribe)says Tigers fall to Penn in Philadelphia

TOWSON LACROSSE:

The Official Site

MT. ST. MARY’S LACROSSE:previews tonight’s showdown with Hopkins

The Official Site

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:says former Terps Barnes, Fokou, Gronkowski, Thomas selected on Day 2 of Draft

The Official Site

The Sun says former Terp Barnes stays nearby with Redskins

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Barnes now Redskin after growing up fan of Cowboys

The Diamondback’s Chris Eckard says passing ‘ruled’ day at Spring Game

Washington Post’s Jason Reid and Jason La Canfora say Skins tried trading down before selecting Barnes

Washington Post’s Jason La Canfora says Skins signed Edwin Williams after going undrafted

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps have had players drafted in 15 straight years

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Fokou picked by Eagles

DC Examiner’s John Keim says new Redskin Barnes smart, strong

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says DHB one of 4 ACC players selected in Top 10

SI’s Tony Pauline says Raiders ‘reached’ for DHB at 7

CBS Sports’ Clark Judge says DHB ‘gamble’ for Raiders

Terrapin Times’ Claire Knudsen profiles NFL hopeful Muhtadi (must subscribe)says Adrian Cannon, Torrey Smith, Quinton McCree all options to replace DHB

Turtle Sports Report’s Kenny Gartner

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:says Terps should still be in NCAA Tournament with win over Yale Saturday

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Cottle still ‘optimistic’ about Terps’ season

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:says Toliver, Coleman named team Co-MVP’s at Awards Banquet

The Official Site

SALISBURY LACROSSE:says Coach Jim Berkman knows Gulls will have to win on road during NCAA Tournament

The Sun’s Edward Lee

HORSE RACING:says Quality Road’s status for Kentucky Derby still ‘in question’

Daily Racing Form’s David Grening

Daily Racing Form’s Mike Welsch says Hold Me Back, Square Eddie, Win Willy, General Quarters all got work in at Churchill Downs Sunday

Thoroughbred Times’ Ed DeRosa says Barbaro statue unveiled in Louisville

Examiner Steve DeClue says alcohol number 1 reason why Preakness ticket sales down

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Hopkins 13, Mt. St. Mary’s 6. The Mountaineers are playing better, but not THIS much better.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

This is it. The final update. Tomorrow is the day. You’ve seen who Drew and I think the Ravens will select, now let’s learn more about all of the players who might be possible. Here is yesterday’s update, with links to past updates……

Here is the full list of players I’ve profiled during Draft season…..

CB’s Sean Smith (Utah), Alphonso Smith (Wake Forest), D.J. Moore (Vanderbilt), Vontae Davis (Illinois), Darius Butler (UConn), Jairus Byrd (Oregon), Kevin Barnes (Maryland), Greg Toler (St. Paul’s), Sherrod Martin (Troy), Mike Mickens (Cincinnati)
WR’s Darrius Heyward-Bey (Maryland), Hakeem Nicks (North Carolina), Kenny Britt (Rutgers), Percy Harvin (Florida), Derrick Williams (Penn State), Kevin Ogletree (Virginia), Deon Butler (Penn State), Louis Murphy (Florida), Mike Thomas (Arizona), Brandon Tate (North Carolina), Brian Robiskie (Ohio State), Patrick Turner (USC), Brian Hartline (Ohio State), Johnny Knox (Abilene Christian), Tiquan Underwood (Rutgers), Jeremy Maclin (Missouri), Mohamed Massaquoi (Georgia), Ramses Barden (Cal Poly), Brandon Gibson (Washington State), Aaron Kelly (Clemson), Brooks Foster (North Carolina), Juaquin Iglesias (Oklahoma), Austin Collie (BYU),
LB’s Clint Sintim (Virginia), Clay Matthews (USC), Larry English (Northern Illinois), James Laurinaitis (Ohio State), Darry Beckwith (LSU), Brian Cushing (USC), Rey Maualuga (USC), Moise Fokou (Maryland), Scott McKillop (Pitt), Connor Barwin (Cincinnati), Marcus Freeman (Ohio State), Jason Phillips (TCU)
TE’s Brandon Pettigrew (Oklahoma State), Chase Coffman (Missouri), Travis Beckum (Wisconsin), Jared Cook (South Carolina), Dan Gronkowski (Maryland), Shawn Nelson (Southern Mississippi), Richard Quinn (North Carolina), Cornelius Ingram (Florida), James Casey (Rice)
K Graham Gano (Florida State), David Buehler (USC), Sam Swank (Wake Forest)
DE Aaron Maybin (Penn State), Lawrence Sidbury (Richmond), Robert Ayers (Tennessee), Jovan Belcher (Maine), Jarron Gilbert (San Jose State), Michael Johnson (Georgia Tech), Tyson Jackson (LSU), David Veikune (Hawaii)
DT Jeremy Navarre (Maryland)
OT Eben Britton (Arizona), Andre Smith (Alabama), T.J. Lang (Eastern Michigan), Phil Loadholt (Oklahoma), Michael Oher (Ole Miss), William Beatty (UConn), Jamon Meredith (South Carolina), Garrett Reynolds (North Carolina)
C Edwin Williams (Maryland), Alex Mack (Cal), Max Unger (Oregon), Antoine Caldwell (Alabama)
S Louis Delmas (Western Michigan), Troy Nolan (Arizona State), Patrick Chung (Oregon), Rashad Johnson (Alabama), William Moore (Missouri), Darcel McBath (Texas Tech)
QB’s Brian Hoyer (Michigan State), Pat White (West Virginia), Mike Teel (Rutgers)
FB Tony Fiammetta (Syracuse), Eric Kettani (Navy)
RB’s Beanie Wells (Ohio State), Andre Brown (NC State), Shonn Greene (Iowa), Javon Ringer (Michigan State), Donald Brown (UConn), LeSean McCoy (Pitt), Rashad Jennings (Liberty)

Now here are the final 10 players who names you might want to know before Ozzie Newsome starts calling in picks this weekend. Thanks to ESPN.com for stats, thanks to Youtube.com for video, thanks to NFLDraftScout.com for Combine numbers and profile information, thanks to CarrollCountyTimes.com for info on Ravens’ interest.

Malcolm Jenkins (CB, Ohio State)

I guess we have to consider that if Malcolm Jenkins were to be available somehow at 26, the Ravens would almost be forced to pick him. He’s arguably a Top 10 talent, but so many teams appear to be shying away from Corners at the very top of this year’s Draft. I guess there is at least a chance he could somehow fall. But make no mistake, Jenkins’ body (6’0″, 204 pounds, 33 inch vertical) and ability (11 INT’s, 2 TD returns over the last 3 seasons) have scouts excited about him, but they are concerned about his speed (4.51 40), and some scouts see him as a safety in the not-too-distant future.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CiUORe2cvDM[/youtube]

Eric Wood (C, Louisville)

Some would argue that Wood is an equal prospect with potential first rounders Max Unger and Alex Mack. Wood certainly has the size (6’4″, 310 pounds); and the strength (30 reps of 225 pounds on the bench) to succeed in the NFL, but he might need to be flexible. Wood has said that scouts have looked at him as a center, but have also worked him out at the Guard and Tackle positions. He had a stellar senior season, becoming a finalist for the Rimington Trophy, which goes to the top Center in the country. He could end up going in the 2nd or 3rd round, which might still be just a bit too high for the Ravens if they are searching for someone to learn behind Matt Birk.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ITpWeMOePc[/youtube]

Cameron Morrah (TE, Cal)

Morrah made a very strange decision to leave the Bears with a year of eligibility remaining, and it doesn’t appear to be a decision that is paying off. Morrah appears to a 2nd day pick, possibly a late 2nd day pick. He has a nice mix of size (6’4″, 244 pounds), speed (4.65 40), and strength (24 bench reps), but never really showed the type of production that would make scouts believe he could be a star at the next level. Morrah caught 27 passes for 326 yards in his junior season. He did prove to be a reliable red zone target however, hauling in 8 TD’s. If Morrah hangs around just long enough (which is quite possible), the Ravens could be a good fit.

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

Cody Brown (LB, UConn)

One of the pass rushers who is seriously going under the radar in this Draft class is Brown, who appears to be an early 2nd day pick. Brown put together a 22 sack career with the Huskies, including 10 during his senior season. He’s 6’2″, 244 pounds; ran a somewhat disappointing 4.76 40, did a decent 26 bench reps of 225 pounds, and has an impressive 36.5 inch vertical. He played Defensive End in college and at the Senior Bowl; but his size will force him to move to linebacker at the next level. Brown was one of the Huskies’ team captains in 2008, showing he’s capable of being a leader.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KTeWMfkyM8[/youtube]

Cedric Peerman (RB, Virginia)

The fastest Running Back at the Combine (4.45 40), Peerman’s speed is lifting him on Draft boards where he might have struggled given his lack of size (5’10″, 216 pounds) and production (just 774 yards and 7 TD’s in his senior season). Peerman has decent hands (193 receiving yards his senior year), but might not be the ball carrier the Ravens desire (just 153 carries last season). Peerman showed solid strength and agility at the Combine; with 27 bench reps of 225 pounds and a 40 inch vertical. Peerman was a full-time kick returner his first two seasons, but was used in that capacity only sparingly during his junior and senior seasons. Peerman looks to be an early 2nd day pick; but might not be the compliment to Ray Rice and Le’Ron McClain the Ravens are searching for.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dk4tucwi_c[/youtube]

Ryan Succop (K, South Carolina)

The pursuit of a kicker to compete with Steven Hauschka might not result with Ozzie Newsome selecting a player in the Draft. The Ravens continue to confirm that Hauschka is a major part of their plans, and no one in the organization has ruled out the possibility of Matt Stover returning (although it is VERY unlikely). So adding an undrafted free agent could still be a major part of the plans. Succop could be a player drafted or signed as an undrafted player. He was never particularly accurate (49/79 FG’s for his career, 71%); but he did connect on 104/106 extra point attempts. He connected on attempts of 55 and 54 yards during his career, but was just 3/9 from beyond 50 yards. He does have another talent that might be worth looking at……

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrpK0psAIqE[/youtube]

James Davis (RB, Clemson)

Davis was graded as a first day pick last season, but decided to return to Clemson to improve his Draft stock and make a run at a national championship. Unfortunately, he failed to do either. Davis, the “thunder” to CJ Spiller’s “Lightning”, rushed for 751 yards (and 11 TD’s) in his senior campaign following 1,000+ yards in each of the previous two seasons. Davis is 5’11″, 210 pounds; and shaved his 40 time down to an impressive 4.39 at his Pro Day. Davis must hope teams excuse his lack of production last season on the overall struggles of the Tigers’ offense. He could be an interesting player to put in the Ravens’ backfield mix, especially if he slides late into the 5th or 6th round.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EsCU6dDNAR0[/youtube]

Jarett Dillard (WR, Rice)

How do these numbers sound for a 4 year career? 292 catches, 4,138 yards, and 60 TD’s. Pretty impressive in a pretty explosive offense. Dillard’s size and lack of significant competition are the biggest reasons why he is considered an early Day 2 pick instead of a solid first day selection. Dillard checks in at 5’11″, 185 pounds; with a 4.53 40. He dazzled scouts at the East-West Shrine Game; but scouts expected him to be the most talented player on that field. Dillard is recognized best for his ability to get open in traffic, but would not be the Ravens’ guy if size is what they’re looking for.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtojPueX0_w[/youtube]

Ryan Mouton (CB, Hawaii)

While Mouton is undersized (5’10″, 180 pounds) and was not the most productive player in the world (62 tackles, 3 INT’s, 2 Forced Fumbles in his career); he was versatile and made the most of his opportunities during his career with the Warriors. Mouton returned two of his 3 career INT’s for TD’s, including a 91 yard return. He also returned kicks during the last 2 seasons; which produced 2 TD’s as well. Mouton was a jack of all trades during his senior campaign, lining up as a receiver and making 8 catches as well. He’ll likely stay on the board until late in the Draft, and could be a project pick for the Ravens.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekIlhBhDl4U[/youtube]

Ian Johnson (RB, Boise State)

Over 2 years ago, America fell in love with Ian Johnson thanks to…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yoZJxi3A0VQ[/youtube]

……since that time, Johnson’s numbers have suffered. During Boise State’s Fiesta Bowl Championship season of 2006-Johnson rushed for 1,714 yards and 25 TD’s. In the 2 years since then, he’s rushed for a total of 1,807 yards and 29 TD’s. He’s been battling injuries, and the Broncos went with more of a Running Back by committee approach last season. Johnson is 5’11″, 212 pounds; but posted a somewhat disappointing 4.57 40. Johnson is probably too far removed from his significant ball carrying days to fit what the Ravens are looking for in a Running Back; but if he can find the comfort he had in 2006, he could still be a contributor at the next level. And if Chris Myers is patrolling the sidelines, they might have a thing or two to talk about…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oaIOWZJqr10[/youtube]

I’ll offer videos of 15 more players you might want to take a look at…..

Chip Vaughn (S, Wake Forest)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4sgbGgTFZ6k[/youtube]

Everette Brown (DE, Florida State)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXJJ14HL5EE[/youtube]

Dane Randolph (OT, Maryland)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6Owg1qSZhk[/youtube]

Ryan Palmer (CB, Texas)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Su-76d4NJ70[/youtube]

Alex Boone (OT, Ohio State)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_4-Bewyq0A[/youtube]

Cary Harris (CB, USC)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pt4KDpMjc4Y[/youtube]

Marko Mitchell (WR, Nevada)

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

Lardarius Webb (CB, Nicholls State)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2Q6JJX8uQ8[/youtube]

Arian Foster (RB, Tennessee)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ntNxYv6ryCw[/youtube]

Brian Toal (TE/LB/S, Boston College)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVfg8fBbBks[/youtube]

Kaluka Maiava (OLB, USC)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqIrg1dqO2I[/youtube]

Antone Smith (RB, Florida State)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9fbFCU4zHiY[/youtube]

Gerald McRath (LB, S. Mississippi)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEK9KJGBPKw[/youtube]

Lydell Sargeant (CB, Penn State)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPNPn9ypJQU[/youtube]

Jeremiah Johnson (RB, Oregon)

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

-G