Didn’t quite get everything in today, sorry about that. Have to get out to 1 Winning Drive to hear from John Harbaugh and company…..

For the record; I’ll say Maryland 68, Wisconsin 62 today. But I’m not exactly comfortable.

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

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Terps must shake off loss to Cincinnati, prove they can beat good teams away from Comcast Center before ACC play begins

Derek Arnold says Jared Gaither, Michael Oher ‘Played like Ravens’ in loss to Indianapolis

Bob Haynie says Ravens need to ‘defend home turf’ Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium

Glenn Clark says Ravens signed Cary Williams from Titans practice squad

Glenn Clark says FB Charles Ali takes Matt Lawrence’s roster spot

Thyrl Nelson doesn’t particularly like Flacco, Ray Rice as fantasy plays against Pittsburgh

Ed Frankovic offers thoughts from Capitals owner Leonsis on passing of Pollin

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Fabian Washington, Matt Lawrence placed on IR

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh believes Reed’s fumble ‘not reason (Ravens) lost’ to Colts

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco ‘struggling’ to find receivers not named Derrick Mason, Ray Rice

The Official Site says Ray Rice, VanDeSteeg, Paul Kruger say Ngata, McKinney could put away most turkey on Thanksgiving

Steelers Official Site’s Bob Labriola says Tomlin reported Roethlisberger ‘symptom-free’ after head injury in loss to Chiefs

Steelers Official Site’s Teresa Varley says Tomlin knows turnovers, special teams play killing Steelers despite ranking very high in AFC in offense, defense

Steelers Official Site says team signed Rocky Boiman, Corey Ivy

The Sun’s Mike Preston throws some blame towards Ngata for unnecessary roughness penalty in loss to Indy

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says other teams around AFC helping Ravens stay in Wild Card picture

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Mason having ‘up and down’ season-similar to rest of team

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Grubbs not even aware he had been honored by Pro Football Weekly

The Sun says Big Ben will play as long as he continues to pass concussion tests this week

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says former kicker Hauschka tried out for Falcons

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says death of former Ravens hopeful Tony Fein ruled accidental

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ed Bouchette says Polamalu ‘not likely’ to play Sunday

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review’s Scott Brown says Dennis Dixon will back up Roethlisberger Sunday night

USA Today has Ravens 14th in power rankings

5 of 8 USA Today analysts pick Steelers

USA Today’s Pete O’Brien picks Steelers 17-16

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks says Ravens playoff chances hinge on health of Terrell Suggs

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco has Ravens 17th in power rankings

Fox Sports’ Adrian Hasenmayer has Ravens 8th in power rankings

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Greivis Vasquez scored 19, but Terps fell to Cincinnati in semifinals of Maui Invitational

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The AP says Gary Williams knew Terps were hurt by Cincy’s Yancy Gates inside

The AP says Terps will face Wisconsin in 3rd place game today at 4:30

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says former Maryland target Lance Stephenson chipped in 11 points, 8 rebounds for Cats

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Mick Cronin wanted Bearcats to get inside to Yancy Gates

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Landon Milbourne struggling in Maui

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says James Padgett played well in loss

Cincinnati Enquirer’s Bill Koch says Deonta Vaughn tallied double double for Bearcats in win over Terps

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The AP says Kizer scored 20 as Terps topped Samford

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The Diamondback’s Jonas Shaffer says Frese pleased with how Terps bounced back from first loss of season

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Terps shook off loss to Mississippi State with big performance in win over Bulldogs

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Laura Smitherman and Don Markus say Martin O’Malley doesn’t want public funds spent on buyout for Fridge

The Sun’s Jeff Barker wonders how Byrd Stadium fans will react to Friedgen Saturday

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Archbishop Carroll LB prospect Attaochu interested in Terps

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says associate AD Brian Ullmann claimed school hasn’t asked for public funds

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Gloria Friedgen, Debbie Yow attended Ralph’s Tuesday press conference

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Friedgen wouldn’t talk about future Tuesday, only Boston College game

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Chris Turner, Kenny Tate ‘questionable’ for Saturday’s game against BC

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph would prefer not to play Danny O’Brien Saturday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terrell Skinner will play in East-West Shrine Game; Travis Ivey, Cory Jackson will play in “Texas vs. The Nation” all-star game in El Paso

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says James Franklin expects both Chris Turner, Jamarr Robinson to be available Saturday

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Dave Shinskie, Maryland QB’s likely to combine for a number of turnovers Saturday

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says John Dowd named Academic All-American by ESPN The Magazine

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo trying to keep Mids focused on football during Thanksgiving trip to Hawaii

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says former Navy assistant Jeff Monken appears poised to accept Georgia Southern job

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says game at Aloha Stadium allows 5 Hawaii natives on Navy team to play at home

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Chris Harris, Jordan Sugars combined for 61 points as Mids topped Towson at Alumni Hall

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Romeo Garcia dished out 9 assists for Mids in win

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says RaShawn Polk’s 19 not enough as Tigers fell to Midshipmen

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The AP says Jarrel Smith added 15 points in loss for Tigers

MORGAN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Reggie Holmes tallied 34 points as Bears won stunner at Arkansas

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

Arkansas Official Site says Rotnei Clarke’s 26 not enough as Razorbacks fell to Morgan in Fayetteville

The AP says Joe Davis scored 18 points for Razorbacks in win

Arkansas Democrat Gazette’s Bob Holt says Reggie Holmes’ big game against Hogs came just 2 days after tough performance in loss to Louisville

COPPIN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Vince Goldsberry lead way with 18 as Eagles beat UMBC in Catonsville

The AP says Kareem Brown scored 17 points for Eagles in win

UMBC BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Chauncey Gilliam scored 20 points, but Retrievers fell to Coppin at RAC Arena

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

LOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Shane Walker tallied double double as Greyhounds topped Dartmouth

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The AP says Brett Harvey chipped in 10 points for Hounds in win

HOPKINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mike Stoffel, Steve Levinson named Academic All-American by ESPN The Magazine

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s battle with Niagara at Knott Arena

The Official Site offers complete Mountaineers-Purple Eagles release (pdf)

COLLEGE OF NOTRE DAME BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says cancellation of season ‘heartbreaking’ for Gators

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Chris Ray thinks ‘offseason regimen’ will have him in better shape in 2010

MLB.com’s Lisa Winston says Birds ‘exercising patience’ organizationally (REALLY?)

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec and Dan Connolly say former Nationals reliever Mike Hinckley signed minor league deal with O’s

The Sun says former bench coach Jauss gets same job with Mets

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Preakness winner Rachel Alexandra back to work

MIXED MARTIAL ARTS:

Frederick News-Post’s Joshua R. Smith says Hagerstown fighters Jacob, Joey Kirwan; Myersville fighter Paul Mann looking to make mark in local MMA scene

BALTIMORE BULLETS:

The AP’s Joseph White says Bullets/Wizards owner Abe Pollin passed away from cancer at 85

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Welcome to Baltimore Charles Ali and Cary Williams. If one of you ends up making a contribution, it will be a very pleasant surprise.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

What a dismal performance.

This Maryland team appeared uninspired, unenthused, and generally uninterested for the better part of their 69-57 loss to Cincinnati Tuesday night in the 2nd round of the EA Sports Maui Invitational.

It was almost as if they believed they were just so much better than Cincinnati that they only needed to run through the motions.

The more frustrating fact to stem from Tuesday’s loss was the realization that once Maryland realized they were in for a fight, the Bearcats turned out to just be a better team.

As Maryland managed just one field goal (and four total points) over the final 9:27 of the first half; Cincinnati scored 20 points to open a 13 point halftime lead. Maryland missed 8 shots during the stretch, any one of which could have halted the Bearcats’ run and kept the Terps within striking distance.

When the 2nd half opened up, Maryland managed to cut Cincinnati’s leads down to 7 and 8; but each time they did-the Bearcats answered back with a big jump shot (Dion Dixon 2, Rashad Bishop 3). Maryland’s mini-runs were squashed, and the Bearcats managed to play the 2nd half at an almost even level.

Due to Maryland’s true lack of outside shooters, this team just cannot afford to make poor decisions, take ill-advised shots, and take defensive sets off. When they do these things, good teams will answer with big shots. Maryland doesn’t have that big shot ability.

The Cincinnati game won’t be the last time this issue plays out this season. This issue will hurt the Terps throughout the year. Gary Williams ran every backdoor set and defensive trap he could think of to get his team back in it-but poor shot selection from Greivis Vasquez (who still lead the Terps with 19 points) killed their first rally, and missed free throws by Cliff Tucker and James Padgett doomed their 2nd rally. There were no more rallies to be had.

This IS an improved team. But they still have problems. Having real big men gives them a better shot on both ends, but their big men (at least until Dino Gregory returns) are freshmen. They’re raw, they need bulk, and they will go through long stretches where they struggle. They don’t shoot well. They rely on penetration, free throws and defense. If those things aren’t there-they’re in major trouble.

They’ll have to learn from this one. Wednesday’s consolation game will be a big statement for this team. In 2004, Maryland went through a 3 game stretch where they lost a heartbreaker to Wisconsin in Milwaukee-then a shootout to George Washington (with a win over a lesser George Mason team mixed in). The inability to win consistently away from Comcast Center early in the season was a theme that played out throughout the season as a streak of 11 NCAA Tournament appearances would eventually be snapped.

Losing to a team that in reality maybe just as good (if not better) than you are on a neutral floor is not damning at all-and could be a valuable learning experience. But failing to prove you can beat decent teams away from home can really hurt a team heading into ACC play.

-G

————————–

9:10-Maryland falls to 4-1 with a 69-57 loss. I’ll be back shortly to wrap it up.

9:02-I know why Gary is shooting, but a lack of shooters will only lead to a larger margin of defeat.

This has been a real struggle for James Padgett tonight.

8:57-The good news is that whoever Maryland faces tomorrow (Gonzaga or Wisconsin) COULD still get good enough to make it a quality opponent at the end of the season. But tomorrow becomes a big game for this team. Leaving the island with just a win over Chaminade would hurt them a great deal. Indiana won’t help them RPI-wise, and Villanova is a tall task.

8:51-Just got a text from a friend asking if we can expect Maryland to be out-rebounded by every team all season.

The answer is maybe.

While bringing in Jordan Williams and James Padgett certainly gives the team size; they are going to be raw. They need to continue to add bulk, and learn how to battle. Landon Milbourne, Cliff Tucker, Sean Mosley and Greivis Vasquez MUST help on the glass.

8:48-Sean Mosley, Cliff Tucker and Landon Milbourne were the guys Maryland needed more from given Cincinnati’s size. They needed to match with athleticism, but have been unable to.

8:46-Terps 1/11 from beyond the arc, and the only make was a jumper from Hayes that hit everything on it’s way in. This is just brutal.

8:39-Terps doing a TERRIBLE job of getting back on defense after Cincinnati has broken the press. They just don’t shoot well enough to overcome these big deficits.

Tucker not taking that shot says everything you need to know about this team.

8:38-Vasquez jawing with Stephenson? No need for that. Lance’s team is up 15. 53-38.

8:35-And that floater by Yancy Gates re-extends the lead to 13 for Cincinnati. Two steps forward, two steps back.

Jordan Williams misses 2 free throws, and Gates gets another 2. Another hoop from Deonta Vaughn off a a Vasquez miss, and Cincinnati is up 17. Really?

This one could get ugly. Maryland has pulled out all the stops, and they’re in worse shape than they were at the half.

8:32-Another great play run to Mosley, and another miss at the rim. I counted MAB’s (misses at basket) last season, I really didn’t think I was going to have to do that again this year.

Another free throw miss from Milbourne. Seriously?

8:29-Cashmere Wright abuses Padgett, and Cincinnati will have the chance to extend their lead back to 12. They’ve answered every spurt Maryland has put together.

8:27-Mosley adds to the misery of another missed free throw by missing a chip shot from under the hoop.

Every time something goes well, something goes equally wrong. 44-33 Bearcats, and Bowie misses ANOTHER wide open 3.

8:25-Tucker and Padgett each missed free throws on the last 2 possessions. Those are just crucial here in the 2nd half as this team tries to battle.

8:24-What a shot there from Bishop. Obviously the biggest difference in how these teams have handled runs. While Maryland couldn’t respond, Cincinnati has options.

8:22-Back to back plays run for Mosley. Gary clearly knows the importance of his involvement. He buries his freebies, and it’s 39-30 Cincinnati.

8:20-There is CLEARLY a nice contingent of Maryland fans there in Maui. They were making some noise a few minutes ago, but MUST remain vocal the rest of the way.

8:18-And FINALLY Sean Mosley gets involved. They’ve missed him badly. Nice execution out of the timeout.

8:15-Everything was going well, then Vasquez tried to force things again. If he’s going to force things, Maryland is going to be in trouble. 39-26 Cincinnati as they completely weather the storm-forcing Gary to take a timeout.

8:13-ANOTHER poor shot choice from Vasquez-just when everything was going well. And what do you know, Cincinnati stopped the run on the other end.

8:11-3 personal fouls now for Jaquon Parker. That’s big. Vasquez has 11, Maryland cuts lead to 33-26 on a Jordan Williams bucket.

8:09-Easy two for Rashad Bishop, but he can’t make it 3 despite Landon Milbourne’s critical 4th personal foul.

THAT is exactly how Greivis Vasquez should be allowing the offense to come to him.

8:05-Cincinnati out-rebounded Maryland 21-16 in the first half. The Terps shot a dreadful 7-26 (26.9%) from the field.

7:59-Deonta Vaughn lead Cincinnati with 10 points in the first half; Greivis Vasquez lead Maryland with 7 points.

7:49-That didn’t just happen, did it? Dion Dixon grabs a loose ball and puts it back at the buzzer, and they extend their lead to 31-18 at the break. Unthinkably bad half for the Terps, who will have to open the 2nd half on a run to get back in this. Wow.

7:47-This is where not having faced adversity at all yet this season is hurting this team. Their attitude is particularly poor right now; and Cincinnati appears very focused.

7:45-Larry Dixon draws another foul for Cincinnati. They are just taking it right to the Terps right now. Toyloy with a pretty hoop from the lane; and Cincy has their biggest lead at 29-16.

7:42-Gary Williams is obviously FURIOUS with a 6:14 scoring drought. Terps have just looked sloppy on both ends.

FINALLY the drought ends as Vasquez gets a friendly roll. 25-16 Maryland, and Cincinnati breaks the press easily to get a hoop from Dion Dixon. 27-16 Bearcats.

7:39-After the absolute GIFT of a missed dunk by Toyloy, Vasquez misses the front end of a 1 and 1. 25-14 Bearcats, and Maryland desperately needs more from Vasquez, Milbourne and Mosley.

7:37-This is a BRUTAL stretch for Maryland. Another dunk for Stephenson off the Terps turnover, and it is 23-14 Cincinnati now. Maryland has no outside answer.

7:35-James Padgett REALLY needs to hit his free throws there. A 4 minute scoring drought is a great way to lose games. He’s gonna get fouled, he HAS to hit his shots.

Lance Stephenson hits ANOTHER outside jumper. It might just be a 2; but it hurts to see someone on another team hitting outside shots.

7:32-Can’t have Jin Soo Choi in right now. He’s hurting them. 19-14 Cincinnati.

7:31-When Cliff Tucker drove with no plan, Bill Raftery said EXACTLY what I was thinking: “What are you doing?”

GREAT defense from Greivis as Cincinnati had an outlet.

How does Scott Van Pelt get off work during Thanksgiving week to go to Hawaii with the Terps?

7:28-Seems a little early for Jin Soo Choi to be in the game. I guess they want his size, but he’s a bit of a liability.

And how can Adrian Bowie POSSIBLY have not improved his outside shot by now???

Deonta Vaughn 3 puts Cincy back ahead 16-14.

7:25-Thunderous dunk there on the stick-back from James Padgett. Since Terps aren’t a great shooting team from the field, offensive rebounds are crucial.

Deonta Vaughn makes a pair of freebies to cut Maryland’s lead to 14-13.

7:23-Very smart basketball play there on the inbounds pass by Vasquez. As I was just saying to Bob Haynie over on Twitter-he is SO much better when the game comes to him.

7:20-By the way, I have a side bet tonight with former Cincinnati Bearcats and Baltimore Ravens LB Brad Jackson. It involves us having to wear the gear of each other’s alma mater and having to sing each other’s fight song. He’s joined in on the conversation at Twitter. (@WNST)

That’s great offense there from Cincinnati to get that wide open jumper from Darnell Wilks. 11-9 Cincy.

7:18-Big jumper there from Milbourne there after a TERRIBLE shot from Vasquez. Landon can’t settle for outside jumpers, but his mid-range game changes everything this team does offensively.

7:15-Terps still playing very strong defense, but haven’t been able to get anything going in transition yet. Midway through the first half they usually try to take some more chances.

7:13-Someone is going to have to hit some jumpers to extend Cincinnati’s defense. Landon Milbourne might have to be the guy.

7:11-I don’t know what words to use to describe the color of the shirts Gary Williams and staff are wearing. I like the fact that the school incorporates all colors of the state flag in their uniform scheme-but the yellow polos do NOT look as good as the yellow uniforms.

7:08-Clearly Lance Stephenson is fired up to face this Maryland team. He’s got 5 early as the Cats take a 7-5 lead.

Milbourne responds, 7-7. The Cats certainly have the athleticism to match the Terps.

7:06-Jordan Williams, James Padgett and Landon Milbourne are going to have their hands full with Yancy Gates underneath. They CANNOT let him control the glass.

Bit of a bitter pill to swallow watching Lance Stephenson drive like that….2-0 Bearcats.

7:02-Certainly the lack of scoring from Greivis Vasquez so far is a concern, but Maryland fans have to happy to see how he’s run the floor. Allowing Eric Hayes to be more of a natural shooting guard has been a major benefit for this team in halfcourt offensive sets.

6:49-Greetings from my couch, where I’ll be hanging with you tonight as the Maryland Terrapins battle the Cincinnati Bearcats from the Lahaina Civic Center in Maui. This is the 2nd round of the EA Sports Maui Invitational, the winner advances to face the winner of tonight’s Gonzaga/Wisconsin game in the Championship. The losers will meet in tomorrow night’s 3rd place game.

The most intriguing storyline of tonight’s game is former Terps recruit Lance Stephenson getting a crack at his former Lincoln High School (New York) teammate James Padgett. You remember the hoopla surrounding “Born Ready” last Spring before most schools decided they weren’t interested in him. He’s been off to a decent start with Mick Cronin and Cincy, but has struggled from the field.

Tonight’s game can be seen on ESPN. Sean McDonough, Bill Raftery and Jay Bilas are on the call.

-G

Here are some picks for tonight:

Maryland 80, Cincinnati 69

The Lance Stephenson storyline makes this game more interesting, but Maryland is just better. Cincinnati will compete, but Maryland should win.

UMBC 64, Coppin State 58

In a matchup of two teams struggling to replace their go-to guys (UMBC’s Darryl Proctor and Jay Greene; Coppin’s Tywain McKee); I’ll give the edge to the Retrievers at RAC Arena.

Navy 71, Towson 70

Just because the game is at Alumni Hall.

Morgan State 83, Arkansas 81

Not kidding. I know Drew picked this as well. I really believe Todd Bozeman’s crew wins on the road against their SEC foe.

Loyola 75, Dartmouth 63

But I will admit that I don’t know much at all about the Greyhounds’ opponent.

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says Ray Lewis, Ed Reed need to speak to media after games

Glenn Clark says Ravens will have to use Chris Carr, Frank Walker more with Fabian Washington out

Luke Jones says Terps rebounded from slow start to beat Silverswords

Glenn Clark says Ray Rice best Raven in loss, Drew Forrester says Jared Gaither, Derrick Mason best

Drew Forrester says Ravens’ win over Eagles this time last year proof everyone still in playoff picture

Derek Arnold says Flacco relying on ‘security blanket’ Mason too much (with one of the better photoshop jobs we’ve ever had at WNST.net)

Tom Clayton thinks Birds should have Michael Aubrey, Mark DeRosa at corner infield spots in 2010

Glenn Clark says Turkey Bowl amongst highlights of week

Bob Haynie celebrating 30th anniversary of ACC regular season title

Glenn Clark wonders if Michael Oher better high school football player than Charles Jefferson from Ridgemont High

Ed Frankovic says Capitals ‘collapsed’ in loss to Senators

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s John Eisenberg says loss to Colts proves ‘magic’ gone for Ravens

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Fabian Washington will miss rest of season with ACL tear

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh was happy with ‘communication’ from officials in loss to Indianapolis

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens still very much alive in AFC Wild Card hunt

The Official Site’s Sarah Ellison says Terrell Suggs didn’t agree with ESPN report saying he’d miss at least a month

The Official Site says Harbs believes Lardarius Webb will be ‘big part’ of Ravens plans to replace Fabian Washington

The Official Site says Ravens partnering with Under Armour, Wounded Warrior Project to give away rally towels before Sunday Night Football game at M&T Bank Stadium

Steelers Official Site says Charlie Batch battling wrist injury

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Cam Cameron needs to open up bag of tricks again

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Dennis Dixon may have to start for Pittsburgh if Roethlisberger can’t play

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Freeney claimed Ravens gave Gaither, Oher help to shut Colts’ pass rushers out

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Dawan Landry ‘downplayed’ team lead in interceptions

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks Flacco still bothered by ankle injury

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Fabian Washington hurt himself trying to tackle Addai

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg dives deeper into the issue of 52, Reed not talking to media after games

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Harbs still thinks Ravens ‘good football team’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ravens to give away own version of “Terrible Towel”

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Art Modell signed autographs at Sunday’s game

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Chris Chester, Matt Birk ‘struggling’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Steelers, Jaguars, Broncos 1 game ahead of Ravens in playoff race

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh met with Ed Reed Monday morning to discuss ‘lateral’

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Cundiff may have settled kicking situation, but Ravens haven’t solved red zone issues

The AP says Matt Birk knows Ravens must improve ‘execution’ offensively

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette’s Ed Bouchette says Big Ben should be okay, Steelers likely to sign Tyler Palko for QB insurance

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review’s Scott Brown says Roethlisberger did well on IMPACT test

Beaver County Times’ Mike Bires couldn’t confirm Cleo Lemon, Jeff Garcia worked out for Steelers

The AP says Chris Kemoeatu will miss game for Steelers with sprained knee ligament

SI’s Peter King says Addai TD run ‘embarrassing’ for Ray Lewis

NFL.com’s Steve Wyche says offense looked ‘Boller-ish’ in loss to Indy

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco says Webb may be ‘rushed’ into major role

ESPN.com’s James Walker gives Steelers little chance to beat Ravens without Big Ben

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco appeared to throw into triple coverage on Gary Brackett INT

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The AP says Mosley’s 19 lead Terps to win over Chaminade in 1st round of Maui Invitational

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of win

The AP says Terps moved up to 21st in poll

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Eric Hayes added 12 points for Terps in win

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Vanderbilt (who lost last night) was only other ranked team in Maui Invitational field

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Chaminade coach Mahar knew Terps would ‘wear (Silverswords) down’

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says Jin Soo Choi, Steve Goins, Ersin Levent all played for Terps in win

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Jordan Williams chipped in 10 rebounds for Terps in win

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says James Padgett added another 6 rebounds after halftime

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps 20th best team in country

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s contest with Samford

The Official Site offers complete Maryland-Samford release (pdf)

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s Senior Day battle with Boston College

The Official Site offers complete Terrapins-Eagles release (pdf)

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says future Terp Devin Burns still alive in Georgia high school playoffs

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Chris Turner could ‘try’ to play Saturday vs. BC

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Debbie Yow has not offered ‘full support’ to Friedgen the way she did for Gary Williams

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

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Ian Evans could be ‘sleeper’ prospect for 2010 (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings says Jamarr Robinson, Da’Rel Scott were positives in Florida State loss

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday night’s trip to Hawaii

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

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Buddy Green getting video faster thanks to new software

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Honolulu trip allows Niumatalolo chance to face alma mater

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says 16 Midshipmen seniors headed to Marine Corps

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s tilt with Towson

The Official Site offers complete Mids-Tigers release (pdf)

TOWSON BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s trip to Annapolis

The Official Site offers complete Tigers-Mids release (pdf)

UMBC BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s battle with Coppin State on MASN

The Official Site offers complete Retrievers-Eagles release (pdf)

LOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s trip to Dartmouth

MORGAN BASKETBALL:

The Official Site previews tonight’s trip to Arkansas

The Official Site offers complete Bears-Razorbacks release (pdf)

UMES BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says athletic department honored Kevin White

The Official Site says Kevin White named to Hispanic College Fund Challenge All-Tournament team

MT. ST. MARY’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Jeremy Goode honored by NEC

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says Blue Jays 6th in pre-preseason rankings

Inside Lacrosse’s Sean Burns says coaches have Jays 5th in pre-preseason rankings

ORIOLES:

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck wouldn’t dismiss Birds’ pursuit of Carlos Delgado

Examiner Jay Trucker surprised Andino got no votes for American League MVP

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Palace will play in new league called NASL

Examiner Jeff Hemelt says 9 teams will play in North American Soccer League

SWIMMING:

SwimNetwork.com’s Andrew Silver thinks Michael Phelps hosed with Lochte’s win at Golden Goggles

The AP says “Duel in the Pool” in Manchester, England Phelps’ final meet of 2009

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Dave Litfin says Quality Road worked out at Belmont in hopes to return following Breeders’ Cup Classic scratch

BOXING:

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Mark “TNT” Tucker to defend USBO belt December 11 in Westminster

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-DO NOT LIKE the towel giveaway. Will talk more about it tomorrow.

Talk to you later.

-G

Honorable Mention: NCAA Tournament Soccer Sweet 16: Maryland @ Harvard (Sunday 1pm from Boston); Women’s College Basketball: Maryland vs. Samford (Tuesday 7pm Comcast Center), Maryland vs. Howard (Friday 7pm Comcast Center), Maryland vs. Drexel (Sunday 2pm Comcast Center), Towson @ UMBC (Tuesday 7pm Towson Center), College Football-NCAA Tournament 2nd Round: Johns Hopkins @ Thomas More (Saturday 12pm from Crestview Hills, KY)

10-Charm City Devils (Saturday 7pm Rams Head Live), Mike Doughty (Wednesday 6:30pm Recher Theatre), Jimmie’s Chicken Shack (Saturday 8pm 8×10 Club), SR-71 (Wednesday 7pm Bourbon Street)

If Thanksgiving is supposed to be a time spent with family, this is a hell of a group of shows to stroll through this week. I mean, consider Jimi Haha as the patriarch of the family…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JobkYSL1W_o[/youtube]

Mitch Allan as the cousin who went crazy for a while there; but has since settled down a bit. While you know he’s doing better for himself living in California and writing tunes for Kris Allen-you can’t help but wish he’d come back a little bit more than just for Thanksgiving and Passover. Mostly because you miss the old Mitch, you know-the one whose song you still scream along to every time you hear it on the radio….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dY4KjMdMVE[/youtube]

…..and whose girlfriend you can’t help but stare at during Thanksgiving dinner……

John Allen is the cousin that never stopped partying, and you hope never does. When dinner is served at 3pm Thursday, he’ll probably still be asleep. Don’t bother waking him up. He’ll be fine…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KrY3H9vagRg[/youtube]

And Mike Doughty is your dad’s cousin who you’ve only really met once or twice, and seemed kinda weird. But when you started talking with him, you realized he’s lived the lives of about 8 men, yet doesn’t feel the need to preach about the things he’s seen….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSNuqX3EY70[/youtube]

9-Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (Thursday 9am from New York live on NBC)

Dude, If you’re not down with the Macy’s parade-I don’t think I want to be your friend. I mean, on a day when I am preparing to shove about 12 pounds of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing and sweet potato pie down my gullet; I appreciate seeing some combination of these images……

….WITHOUT fearing that I am suffering some sort of tryptophan-related hallucination.

8-NBA: Wizards vs. 76ers (Tuesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Wizards @ Heat (Friday 7pm from Miami live on Comcast SportsNet and ESPN), Wizards vs. Bobcats (Saturday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet & NBATV)

I will have to be honest here. I have followed the NBA like-not at all-this season. But a story DID catch my attention over the weekend. With the many common threads between pro hoops and hip-hop music; I figured at some point there would be a high-profile issue between a Rap Superstar and a major name in the world of Basketball. And while I’m not surprised that THIS man was a part of it……

I am a BIT surprised that THIS was his target……

And while Albert contends there was no such confrontation at a Jimmy Kimmel Live taping, something tells me that men who have been roughed up by Curtis Jackson have probably said that before.

7-NHL: Sabres @ Capitals (Wednesday 7pm from Verizon Center live on Comcast SportsNet), Capitals @ Canadiens (Saturday 7pm from Montreal live on Comcast SportsNet Plus and NHL Network), Capitals @ Hurricanes (Monday 7pm from Raleigh live on Comcast SportsNet)

I’m still not a Caps fan. In fact, no matter what Drew Forrester wants me to do-I’m going to root for the Flyers this season. That being said, THIS gives me WAY more respect for Matt Bradley than I expected……

6-Tennis: Barclays ATP World Tour Finals (Tuesday-Saturday 7:30am & 2pm live on Tennis Channel; Sunday-FINALS-8am live on ESPN2. All matches from London)

Look-If Andy hadn’t pulled out with an injury, this probably would have been my Number 1…..

That being said; I get the feeling Andy has better things to do with his time……

5-College Football: Boston College @ Maryland (Saturday 3:30pm from Byrd Stadium live on ESPNU), Navy @ Hawaii (Saturday 10:30pm from Honolulu live on ESPNU), Texas @ Texas A&M (Thursday 8pm from College Station live on ESPN), Alabama @ Auburn (Friday 2:30pm CBS), Pitt @ West Virginia (Friday 7pm from Morgantown live on ESPN2), Florida State @ Florida (Saturday 3:30pm from Gainesville live on CBS)

Plus there’s Ole Miss-Mississippi State in the Egg Bowl. And with no offense no Michael Oher, my man Jason Cook, the late Tony Fein, or ANYONE who has ever won the Egg Bowl Trophy; does THIS really fire you up to go out and win a football game???

You want a trophy? How bout the Fremont Cannon-given annually to the winner of Nevada/UNLV?

Think maybe you might be fired up to play for THAT? I think I could beat UNLV on my own if I knew that was the prize. Damn that’s cool!

4-College Basketball: EA Sports Maui Invitational-Maryland vs. Cincinnati (Tuesday 7pm from Maui live on ESPN; 3rd round Wednesday. Other teams in event: Arizona, Gonzaga, Wisconsin, Colorado, Chaminade, Vanderbilt; games will also air on ESPN360 as well); Towson @ Navy (Tuesday 7pm Alumni Hall); Coppin State @ UMBC (Tuesday 7:30pm from RAC Arena live on MASN)

Boy-no real storylines for the Terrapins in their game against Cincy, huh? What’s that??? OH, RIGHT!!!!!

Of course, this presents a fundamental problem for me. You see, I went to Maryland-while my future wife (Laura Simanski) goes to Cincinnati…….

So, while I will be rooting like crazy for the Terps to destroy the Bearcats, I will also be willing to lend a comforting shoulder for my future bride to cry on after. But I’m an old fashioned romantic type like that….

3-WWE Raw (Monday 8:15pm from 1st Mariner Arena live on USA Network)

There is a storied history between World Wrestling Entertainment and Charm City. For example, The Fabulous Moolah won her first ever world title in Baltimore…..

Ron Simmons defeated Big Van Vader in Baltimore to become the first ever African-American World Champion in pro wrestling history…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rf9vQN21phc[/youtube]

And of course the time Vince McMahon beat the hell our of his daughter Stephanie McMahon with a lead pipe at No Mercy back in 2003. Wait. What????

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kmhWzDx7gs[/youtube]

2-Turkey Bowl: Calvert Hall vs. Loyola (Thursday 10am from M&T Bank Stadium live on ABC 2); High School Football State Semifinals: Hereford vs. Linganore (Friday 7pm from Oakdale High), Eastern Tech vs. Douglass-PG (Friday 7pm from CCBC-Essex), Allegany @ Joppatowne (Friday 7pm), Dunbar @ Catoctin (Friday 7pm)

And as always; if you’re headed to see the Cardinals and Dons-or ANY of the high school playoff games this week; Please Remember…..

1-Steelers @ Ravens (Sunday 8:20pm from M&T Bank Stadium live on NBC), Thanksgiving Football: Packers @ Lions (Thursday 12:30pm from Detroit live on FOX), Raiders @ Cowboys (Thursday 4:15pm from Dallas live on CBS), Giants @ Broncos (Thursday 8:30pm from Denver live on NFL Network)

I know Thanksgiving football stinks, but what else are you gonna watch, Vh1 Tough Love 2???

And as the official WNST Ravens analyst, I’d like to offer this analysis.

F*ck the Steelers.

What?

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983……

-G

The Maryland Terrapins put in their 2nd public scrimamge of the preseason Saturday afternoon at Comcast Center in College Park-in preparation for Tuesday night’s exhibtion game against Indiana University (Pennsylvania). Greivis Vasquez lead the Terps with 30 points, freshman big man James Padgett impressed again, chipping in 17 points and 11 rebounds.

I could sit here and bore you with the details of a practice game in which players switched sides at halftime and again in the 2nd half; but I’d rather take a look at the roster and pass along my impressions from what I’ve seen thus far from each player.

Greivis Vasquez: It’s hard to find a fault in the way the senior from Venezuela is approaching the game right now. Vasquez has maintained his explosiveness and incorporated a level of discipline into his overall game. He joked with the media that it would be disappointing for him to see Padgett replace him as the leading rebounder, but he will still find his way to the ball plenty for this team. His outside shooting consistency is the only question mark in his game at this point-he was 2/4 today. If he continues to improve as an outside shooter, he will make a run at ACC Player of the Year and All-American honors.

Eric Hayes: The senior guard improved from last Saturday’s scrimmage to this Saturday’s, piling up 18 points and adding 5 assists. Hayes has not shown the explosiveness we saw from him at times during last year’s run to the NCAA Tournament, but that isn’t always his game. He continues to be the team’s best outside shooting option, which should allow him the chance to get to the basket more as the season progresses. The biggest question mark will be his confidence should he struggle at stretches during the ACC season. As a senior, you expect him to be the type to pick those around him up, but he has not always been the most vocal of leaders.

Sean Mosley: Praise continues to be sung about the 2nd year wing from Baltimore; who scored 16 points and added 7 assists in the scrimmage. Mosley will still remind many of us Byron Mouton (who played the 3 on the ’01-’02 NCAA Championship team); but has more to offer offensively when he has things together. He was just 1/3 from beyond the arc, a number that is not really expected to be far from what he offers on a regular basis. He was inconsitent as a finisher, but finished the game 6/11 from the field. He will have plenty of chances to score points this season with layups, putbacks, and short jumpers-and he cannot leave points on the court.

Landon Milbourne: Landon was exceptional at times Saturday (7/11 from the field, 6/6 from the charity stripe for 21 points to go with 6 rebounds), but he appeared frustrated at other times (committed 8 fouls over 40 minutes played). Milbourne would prefer to continue taking his go-to jumper from the baseline; but this team needs him to continue to show toughness around the rim; as he will get the bulk of the playing time at the 4. He’s going to score points, there’s no doubt about that. However, can he muscle up with the better Power Forwards in the ACC without giving up fouls? That remains to be seen.

Dino Gregory: The Terps’ likely starting center when the season opens put together a pretty nice game Saturday, with 8 points and 9 boards while only being whistled for 2 personal fouls. Gregory enjoys going to the stepback jumper from the 4-6 foot range, but it is not a perfect shot from him. He will be out-muscled, and will have to make up for it with energy and determination. If James Padgett was a few inches taller, I’d imagine he’d take over as starter very quickly into the season. He still might.

Adrian Bowie and Cliff Tucker: I pair these two together because they are equally frustrating to figure out. Tucker has the body (6’6″, 205) to be a major offensive contributor; but just hasn’t found the consistency in his outside shot to make his size and quickness more devastating. On the flip side, Adrian Bowie has the burst of a NFL running back (like Ray Rice); and will draw a number of fouls this season if he can get space. However, he also lacks the outside jump shot (it MIGHT be improvd-but it still isn’t pretty) to force defenders to play up on him. Bowie finished the day with 13 points, Tucker 11 (as well as 5 boards and 6 dimes). However, the two combined to shoot 2/10 from beyond the arc and 1/4 from the free throw line.

James Padgett and Jordan Williams: The interior freshmen are certainly a big part of why fans and analysts each feel as though this team will be improved this season. Thus far, the duo has shown us no reason to think otherwise. Padgett was awesome Saturday, tallying 17 points and adding 11 rebounds. He was 6/12 from the field and 5/9 from the free throw line; he also was called for 5 fouls in 39 minutes. He has the ability to find his shot quickly; which reminds Gary Williams of Joe Smith (Gary compared Joe Smith playing alongside Allen Iverson at the AAU level to Padgett playing alongside Lance “Born Ready” Stephenson at Lincoln High School in New York). Jordan Williams is even MORE intriguing, as he brings a much bigger body to the paint; where he chipped in 11 points and 10 rebounds on the day-while being whistled for 6 personal fouls. The development of these two will have an impact on this team well into the future, but will be very evident as this team goes up against talented bigs throughout the season.

Jin Soo Kim: Jin Soo had his moments Saturday (8 points on 3/6 shooting); but as Gary Williams quipped following the scrimmage, he has to offer “more than a jump shot.” He appears to have bulked a bit, and even went at the hoop a couple of times. But the future Hall of Fame coach doesn’t appear to just be willing to hand his Korean sophomore minutes; no matter how popular he is on campus.

Steve Goins: Did not play today due to his knee injury. Gary noted that they are going to have it checked out by the doctor in Chicago who performed his surgery, saying “something’s not right, and we could really use him out there, too.”

David Pearman and Ersin Levent: Both really seem like nice guys. Levent is no Mike Grinnon, though.

You can hear from Gary Williams, Greivis Vasquez, Sean Mosley and Landon Milbourne following today’s scrimmage NOW in the Audio Vault.

-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

You get props……

1-Brock Lesnar

As some witty, good looking fella quipped on Facebook Sunday; “Brock Lesnar-baddest man on the face of the planet.”

What happened Saturday night was the exact proof many MMA detractors are afraid to admit. Not only is the sport just as much of a “sweet science” as boxing is; the product can be just as beautiful.

Brock Lesnar’s performance was both calculating and intense. It was an incredible display.

Maybe Fedor Emelianenko is next himself for the man known as “The Next Big Thing.” I don’t know that it will matter. I’m reasonably certain there are only a few opponents that may have any chance at the UFC’s Heavyweight Champion. Here are some of my candidates……

Rey Mysterio

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

It may have been by disqualification; but Rey Mysterio does technically hold a victory over Brock Lesnar. I’m not sure if Mysterio can get Big Show to throw him out of the octagon (and I’ve have to look over the UFC rulebook to see what would happen in such a situation); but at least he has the mental edge of having accomplished the feat before. Although it didn’t help Frank Mir much….

Grizzly Bear

Again, in a match of pure brute strength; I’m not certain who gets the advantage. Lesnar-even at just 265 pounds-could probably balloon back up enough in the 24 hours between weigh-in and fight that he could make up some of the size troubles. I would imagine Lesnar would have to rely on his intelligence to neutralize the bear’s closing ability. It wouldn’t be easy, but in the end Lesnar’s grappling background could be enough to help him survive. Sadly, the only man who could really help him with tactical advice is no longer available for comment.

Optimus Prime

But only after his recent parts upgrade. Lesnar would have thrashed the original Prime. Shia LaBeouf could be of help to Prime should he get in trouble; especially considering the UFC’s long-standing “no weapons” policy. I always thought that was outdated.

Min O. Taur

And I’m not talking about Antonio “Minotauro” Nogueira; who Lesnar may well get the chance to devour next should he beat Randy Couture. I’m talking about an actual minotaur; if the fight could work into the busy schedule. If William & Mary doesn’t select this as their next mascot, they might as well disband the entire athletic department.

2-Monica Seles

Is there anyone IN THE WORLD more deserving of being in a Hall of Fame than Monica Seles??? She came back from being STABBED!!!!! Dude, if I got a bad scratch tomorrow I might have to re-consider everything I am doing in my life.

By the way, while writing about Monica Seles, I began to wonder what Monica Lewinsky was doing with her life. You could ask me how the one lead to the other-and the only response I could think of would be “I dunno, drugs?” Anyway, I Google image searched “Monica Lewinsky today” and found this…..

The answer is of course yes. But I’m not really a good gauge because if a pile of sticks asked nicely enough; the answer would probably be yes.

3-Mark Martin and Dario Franchitti

Why is it that all Italian race car drivers have better names than the rest of us? Dario Franchitti and Helio Castroneves aren’t just names, they’re romance novels. I’m reasonably certain that if I changed my name to Alessandro Francesca they’d just go ahead and let me drink the milk.

And if the IRL comes to Baltimore in 2011, at least I’m getting a ringer for my next Little Italy bocce showdown.

4-Derrick Mason

I’m not going to make any jokes. His speech was very moving. There will be plenty of jokes later, but please take a look at this for now.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FE56V04f28k[/youtube]

5-Brad Bergesen and Oscar Salazar

You know what I like about Brad Bergesen?

He can pitch.

Do you think there are more like him somewhere?

6-Brennan Morris

When I have to come up with swimming gags; it’s normally very easy for me to think of a joke about pot, online poker, threesomes, strippers, and or crying. Sadly, Brennan Morris is not Michael Phelps, even if he comes from the North Baltimore Aquatic Club and will be competing at the World Championships thanks to a 2nd place finish in Indianapolis.

Brennan, let me offer a quick recommendation for you regarding how you can help me. More stories about possible drug use and scandalous sex. I know you just graduated from high school, but it’s time to do what I’ve been doing ever since I graduated.

Make poor life choices.

In the meantime, enjoy this picture of Brennan wearing a tuxedo T-shirt. It’s the best thing we’ve got so far.

(Okay, I’ll admit it. I giggled. Damnit Brennan. Remember: your success will make us proud; your ultimate public demise will give us pure unmatched joy.)

7-Joseph Agbeko

In a fight Saturday night that you might have cared about had it not been for that other thing, Joseph Agbeko beat Vic Darchinyan.

It used to be called “The Sweet Science.” Now it’s called “Hon, do you think there’s any jai alai on tonight?”

8-Brandon Snyder, Dave Krynzel, Brandon Waring, and Levi Carolus

Of course, Chris Tillman and Brian Matusz both gave up runs during the Futures Game Saturday, but let’s focus on the positive here. The organization isn’t exactly stocked with position player prospects, but remember-”we’ll buy the bats”…..cause you know, everyone else will just let us. That’s the right, the 2011 Orioles are like the WNBA-”We Got Next.”

The Baysox always have great promotion ideas. For example, they’re putting together a pillow fight on July 24. And as you know, every pillow fight ever has always looked like this…..

9-Cezar Guerrero

My friends at Testudo Times passed along this video of Maryland target Guerrero; who apparently thinks he plays for the Harlem Globetrotters…….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpXr0a3XrG8[/youtube]

Do I want him to be a Terp? Ummmm……..does Garth Brooks want another Dr. Pepper?

(Editor’s Note: Apparently I have no idea whether or not Garth Brooks actually wants a Dr. Pepper. But in my mind, Garth Brooks ALWAYS wants another Dr. Pepper.)

10-Jonathan Sanchez

When Jonathan Sanchez woke up Saturday morning; every pretty girl he talked to couldn’t help but notice how much more attractive he was than the last time they saw him.

When I woke up Saturday morning, my girlfriend (The Luckiest Dang Gal on the Face of the Planet) said “don’t even think about it” and then followed it up with “what the hell do you eat before you go to bed?”

11-Steve Stricker and Eun-Hee Ji

In a conversation I had this evening with AM1570 and WNST.net’s own Drew Forrester; he also won some sort of golf tournament this weekend.

Want more analysis? Ummmm…….the British Open is next week. My pick? Umm….Keeley Hazell?

12-Dan Haren, Brett Cecil, Jon Lester, Bronson Arroyo, Jeff Niemann, Johan Santana, Brian Moehler, and Josh Beckett

Watching the Orioles game Friday night reminded me of when my girlfriend (TLDGOTFOTP) asked me whether I wanted to go to stay in my underwear and let her make buffalo chicken dip; or put on a pair of pants and go to Chick-Fil-A.

HOW THE HELL DO I CHOOSE?!?!?!?!

I LOVE the Orioles……but Brett Cecil is a Terp. Am I supposed to hope Aubrey Huff takes him deep? He probably hates College Park!

Staying on the topic of baseball; Sunday was the 30th anniversary of the famous “Disco Demolition Night” at Comiskey Park. When reached for comment, America asked why “Rob Thomas Demolition Night” hasn’t happened yet.

13-Chris Daughtry

Thanks to my pal Chad Dukes for passing this along via his Facebook page. You can hear Chad in Washington DC on the new “106.7 The Fan.” (Editor’s note: I have no idea if their radio station is going to be called “The Fan” or not. But CBS has been so damn creative in the past you just get the idea they’re going to continue churning out hip, “fresh” ideas. Chad will be doing a show with Lavar Arrington; which I believe will be called “Who Wants to Marry a Guy Who Plays for the Redskins.”)

Enough shtick. Here’s a version of the song “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga by the guy who America thought was less talented than Taylor Hicks. Which makes me think democracy might not be that good of an idea after all…..

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bqT4VnnEU0M[/youtube]

14-Rex Snider and Jason Jubb

Rex-again proving that he only cares about himself-goes out and does something truly noble that I can absolutely not find a way to make a joke about*.

*Of course I can makes jokes about it. For example……

Rex and Jason haven’t spent this much time together since their honeymoon.
Rex had to be convinced that cancer was a more worthy cause than his original idea-donating money to improve dental hygeine at next week’s NASCAR event.
Rex hasn’t raised this much money for one cause since “$1 Skoal week.”
Rex had one thing keep him going throughout the evening-the knowledge that there were donuts coming Sunday morning.

And of course I’m kidding. Nice work Rex. Now please go back to what your day job at WNST.net—blogging up softballs for me to ridicule you about.

15-Bagel Bites

I dare you to look at the picture for more tha………..damnit you’re already in the car on the way to your grocery store. I had a feeling.

You got lucky……..

1-Georges St. Pierre

Is there any champion in the world who is LESS interesting and LESS compelling than this guy? Look, I get it…..he’s the most intelligent, most tactical fighter on the face of the planet. But that doesn’t mean I have to enjoy watching him fight. I mean, he’s incredible and all……but I’m pretty sure this guy had a more engaging personality…..

(Editor’s Note: Clearly this is a funnier bit if you know that the person in the picture is Jovan Belcher, or “Jovan From Maine.” But if I was good at doing things like this, I’d be on Saturday Night Live. You get what you pay for people.)

2-Melvin Mora

“And what did Cool Hand Melvin do? He slid into home plate. He’s a cool one!!!!”

By the way…..this video was labeled “O’s vs. blue jays 12th inning homer”…..I just don’t know why.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AS33oOEiAnM[/youtube]

3-Stuart Holden

We almost lost to HAITI?????

HAITI??????

And why the hell do Bob Bradley’s Gold Cup lineups most closely resemble Dave Trembley’s Sunday lineups??? I think Bradley is going to play Ty Wigginton in goal next week.

4-Rajeev Ram and Croatia

You know how Cory Matthews won the geography bee in Mr. Feeney’s class? He convinced Minkus to not even bother competing…..

If Rajeev Ram wins an ATP Tour event because another player dropped out; or if Croatia beats the US at the Davis Cup because Andy Roddick wasn’t there…….it’s still a win.

(Editor’s Note: If you don’t get the reference; you’re no friend of mine Steve.)

5-Lance Stephenson

And I will be lucky if this is the last time I EVER have to write about him. But seeing as how I’m pretty sure I wrote something about Gus Gilchrist just a week ago, I don’t think I’m that lucky.

6-Dan Steinberg

The guy started a “Nationals FAIL” campaign a few weeks ago at his very popular “DC Sports Bog” over at WashingtonPost.com; and it’s like he doesn’t even have to try.

Did Elton John’s piano REALLY malfunction at a Nationals Park show?

Why not.

Did the Manny Acta news REALLY come down in the middle of the night?

Why not.

Does Dan Steinberg owe someone in that organization a hearty thank you for their terrible failures?

I think so.

7-Bruno

$30 million, huh?

The worst part about it is that there’s a chance its funnier than anything else that will come out this Summer.

You’re a zero……

Domestic Violence

Next time a girl slashes your tires because you don’t want to be with her anymore; please think about you handle it. When you say “I’m a man, I’ll just handle it myself”; you’re not helping anything.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983……

-G

I’m not going to beat up Dave Trembley for pulling Brad Bergesen. There is no excuse for the fact that Jim Johnson and George Sherrill couldn’t get the job done in the 9th; and for the fact that the team couldn’t get a hit for most of the game.

It is much too easy to blame the manager when the team loses a bad game. Could Trembley have left Bergesen in the game to pitch the 9th? Sure he could have. Bergesen could have gotten into trouble and left the game rattled moving forward. But Trembley went to his reliable finishers, and they let him down. I’m not going to beat him up for that.

But there are PLENTY of other things to beat him up about-like the miserable lineups he manages to put together. Oscar Salazar hit a pinch hit 3 run homer on Tuesday night. Where was he in Wednesday’s lineup? I understand Ty Wigginton has a good history against Josh Beckett (and playing him paid off); but Salazar should have found his way in somehow.

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

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says ‘jealousy’ of Red Sox made Tuesday’s comeback win even better

Nestor Aparicio can’t take much more Trembley

Luke Jones says Berken, Hill have to ‘prove themselves’ in upcoming starts

Marco Romanell says Tillman, Patton could be headed to Birds ‘sooner than later’

Tom Clayton says Jones, Sherrill deserve to be All-Stars

Lawson Lambert thinks Reimold deserves to be Rookie of the Year

Ed Frankovic says Caps sign former Flyer Knuble

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Johnson, Sherrill can’t hold lead in 9th as Sox beat Birds in 11

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Guthrie takes ball tonight for Birds in Los Angeles vs. Lackey, Angels

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Uehara to miss 3-5 weeks with partial elbow tear

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Jones sat out Wednesday’s finale as ‘precautionary’ measure

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Birds partnering with Baltimore City schools

Red Sox Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Youkilis, Baldelli provided heroics for Sox in 9th

Angels Official Site’s Lyle Spencer says tonight’s game vs. Birds first of 10 straight at Angel Stadium for Halos

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Birds couldn’t finish off win after Bergesen’s stellar start

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Wigginton continued mastery of Beckett with homer

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Birds go through emotional swing with Tuesday’s comeback, Wednesday’s loss

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Tuesday’s comeback still resonated at OPACY Wednesday

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says David Hernandez will take Uehara’s roster spot ‘indefinitely’

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says loss to Red Sox resembled “Mother’s Day Massacre”

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says nearly 30,000 at Camden Yards saw Birds drop finale to BoSox

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Uehara may not pitch again for 2 months

The AP says Baez took loss in finale

The AP’s David Ginsburg says Trembley reports surgery ‘not required’ for Uehara

Boston Globe’s Amalie Benjamin says Varitek, Beckett thought BoSox got ‘character’ win after bad loss

Boston Herald’s Steve Buckley says Lugo hero for Red Sox in victory

Providence Journal’s Joe McDonald says Papelbon finished off win with 20th save

Sporting News’ Stan McNeal says Markakis deserves to be All-Star

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Valido homered in win over Akron

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Allar took loss as Shorebirds fell to Hickory

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Erbe lost rehab start to Oneonta

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Michael Abreu, Jonathan Tucker, Perrault, Oullette all named Eastern League All-Stars

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Wilfredo Perez got win in relief for Baysox

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Steelers coach Tomlin called out Oher at Rookie Symposium

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Rice, McGahee lead backfield competition

The Official Site’s Geoff Peckham says ESPN thinks Mason, Gregg ‘underrated’

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Ravens installing grass at M&T Bank Stadium before AC Milan-Chelsea match

ESPN The Magazine’s Anna K. Clemons says Ravens 29th best franchise in all of sports

ESPN.com’s James Walker says players think Reed better ‘all-around’ safety than Polamalu

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens have 2 weeks to get Suggs’ deal done

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Matt Robinson following in footsteps of Atholton coach Kyle Schmitt with commitment to Terps

The Diamondback’s Jakob Engelke says Terps featured on ESPN Wednesday

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Virginia TE prospect Josh Lovell still high on Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem breaks down secondary with Don Brown (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says DT commit Andre Monroe chose Terps over New Mexico (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Suitland DB commit Jeremiah Johnson ‘lifelong Terps fan’ (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Vasquez spouting off again

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Terps staff ‘satisfied’ with roster even without Stephenson

Fox Sports’ Jeff Goodman says Vasquez expects to win ACC regular season and Tournament titles

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Examiner Matthew Schlissel says home opener vs. Coastal Carolina Tigers’ only night game of season

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Jon Brand says former Jay Rabil helping producers of film “Crooked Arrows”

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Slotback Chris Hill ‘most looking forward to’ Ohio State game

The Official Site says Niumatalolo announces class of ‘09

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says Park City prospects interested in Naval Academy (must subscribe)

GOLF:

The AP says Tiger played with Cowboys QB Romo in Pro-Am Wednesday

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says House minority leader Boehner played in same group as Tiger, Romo

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Lucas Glover hoping to build on U.S. Open win at AT&T National

Washington Post’s Barry Svrluga says following AT&T National, U.S. Open next big event at Congressional

Washington Post’s Thomas Boswell says Glover trying to avoid failures of former U.S. Open champs like Steve Jones, Michael Campbell

Washington Post’s Tracee Hamilton says Barnes hasn’t had chance to settle down since strong finish at Open

Washington Times’ Barker Davis says defending champ Anthony Kim brings ‘love-hate’ relationship with putter into AT&T National

Washington Times’ Ben Goessling says Romo hit at Earl Woods Memorial Pro-Am

Washington Times’ Ryan O’Halloran says Caps coach Boudreau also played Pro-Am

Washington Times’ Barker Davis says Mahan, Furyk have next best odds (behind Tiger) to win AT&T National

Washington Examiner’s Craig Stouffer says Fairfax golfer Steve Marino expects big crowds at Congressional

Washington Examiner’s Rick Snider says Jessica Simpson also amongst highlights at AT&T National

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says PGA Tour Commissioner Finchem reports ‘no positive tests’ since drug testing policy began about a year ago

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Borel no longer rider for Mine That Bird

Thoroughbred Times’ Ed DeRosa says Woolley, owners looking for jockey to commit to Derby champ through Breeders’ Cup

SWIMMING:

The Sun says Phelps not happy about swimsuit ruling

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-I’ll take Tiger Woods to win the golf tournament this weekend. Mostly because he’s playing in it. If he wasn’t playing in it, I doubt I’d bother to pick a winner; because no one would care.

Talk to you this weekend.

-G

Last night was special. I mean, REALLY special.

I’m not going to say it can change the course of the season; because that just doesn’t happen in baseball.

But it was REALLY special.

Let’s see what everyone has to say….

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Nestor Aparicio says ‘Magic’ was in full display at OPACY last night

Drew Forrester went to sleep during rain delay, missed historic comeback

Allen McCallum says Red Sox attempted to walk off field with 2 outs, before Orioles put together ‘defining moment’

Bob Haynie enjoys ‘bandwagon’ Orioles fans

Luke Jones says Birds’ win big news on Facebook

Keith Melchior says Sherrill, Jones best Birds in June

Jerry Reinhardt says win should give Orioles fans ‘hope’

Marco Romanell hopes Birds can carry momentum through All-Star break, into 2nd half of season

Tom Clayton thinks Uehara needs to head to bullpen

Bob Haynie ‘hopes (Stephenson) found what he’s looking for’ at Cincinnati

Glenn Clark jokingly places Zaun amongst best hitters in MLB

Rex Snider working to raise money for cancer awareness

Ed Frankovic says Caps don’t think they’ll be heavily involved in free agency period

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds complete biggest comeback in team history to top Red Sox

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of stunning victory

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Bergesen goes to hill this afternoon vs. Beckett, Red Sox

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Trembley thinks Sherrill, Jones, Jim Johnson all deserve to be All-Stars

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Jones forced to leave game early after collision with outfield wall

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds waiting for Uehara’s arthrogram results

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Markakis, Jones hoping to make All-Star Game with late push

Red Sox Official Site’s Jeff Seidel says Smoltz held Birds in check, but pen let game slip away after rain delay

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says 32,000 saw Birds pull off improbable rally at Camden Yards

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says O’s previous biggest comeback was from 8 down-also against Sox-in ‘56

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Izturis will travel with Birds to west coast

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says baserunning could be hurting Trembley’s chances of returning

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Salazar amongst heroes in comeback win with 3 run homer

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Markakis finished rally with game winning 2 run double

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Sherrill finished win with 17th save in last 19 tries

Examiner Jay Trucker says Birds were saved after Hill’s early struggles

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Roberts snapped 0-18 drought with RBI single in 8th

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Reimold amongst American League rookie leaders

Frederick News-Post’s John Cannon says former Frederick High pitcher Billy Gross to leave West Virginia, sign with Birds

Boston Globe’s Amalie Benjamin says Papelbon blew save, thought Sox ‘imploded’

Boston Herald’s Sean McAdam says Francona thought BoSox had ‘no answer’ for Birds

Providence Journal’s Joe McDonald says Birds got to Sox reliever Masterson in 7th after two perfect innings

The AP says Hendrickson winner in historic rally

SI’s Tom Verducci says Adam Jones should represent Birds in All-Star Game

Yahoo! Sports’ David Brown says Guthrie scored tying run as pinch runner

CBS Sports’ Larry Dobrow has Birds 24th in power rankings

NBC Sports’ Craig Calcaterra says Markakis was 0-7 against Papelbon before getting winning RBI

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Pauley winner as Tides topped Lehigh Valley

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Fausto Carmona shut down Baysox in Akron win

Frederick Keys Official Site says Tyler Henson homered twice for Keys in win over Wilmington

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Kolodny tallied RBI for Shorebirds in win over Hickory

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Michael Mooney crushed 2 run homer for Ironbirds in loss to Staten Island

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Pinckney, Aubrey, Snyder all contributed offensively for Tides in win

Virginian-Pilot says Alberto Castillo tallied 3rd save of season as Tides topped IronPigs

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh spending 4th of July with troops in Persian Gulf

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens trying to snap streak of making playoffs then missing playoffs

Examiner Phil Macek says Ravens need to get Suggs deal done

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco will be difference for Ravens trying to make playoffs in back to back years

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph may want to remain head coach past date Franklin scheduled to take over

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Turner wants to leave ‘legacy’ in College Park

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Yow doesn’t think transition ‘will be issue’

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Terps see ‘upside’ in commit Matt Robinson (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says St. John’s (DC) NT prospect Andre Monroe holds offer from Terps, nearing decision (must subscribe-where you will find updated news about commitment decision)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Alkire says Riverdale Baptist CB prospect Brian Burns ‘hearing from’ Maryland

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Gary again joining coverage of AT&T National on Comcast SportsNet

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Stephenson saga ends with Cincinnati commitment

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says prospect Mychal Parker has ‘high interest’ in Terps (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina catches up with Slotback Bobby Doyle (must subscribe)

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says Calvert Hall star Donya Jackson headed to Annapolis

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says six Mariners playing tonight against Reading Express team they helped lead to conference title in ‘07

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Marty McGee says Borel may snub Mine That Bird at West Virginia Derby

Thoroughbred Times’ Whitney Harrod says “Calvin Borel Day” celebrated in Georgetown, Kentucky

GOLF:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg says Woods wearing multiple hats during AT&T National week

Frederick News-Post’s Greg Swatek says Tiger didn’t have ‘fun’ watching last year’s event from home

Washington Post’s Michael Wilbon says Jim Brown ‘inaccurate’ with comments regarding Tiger’s social contributions

Washington Times’ Barker Davis says Tiger wants to be ‘greedy’ and win event he’s hosting

Washington Times’ Barker Davis says Tiger in 2nd half of career now after surgery

Washington Times’ Barker Davis says Paul Casey has quickly ascended rankings

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says PGA Tour to undergo more ‘Tiger-proofing’

USA Today’s Matt Poms says Tiger to play in Earl Woods Memorial Pro-Am today at Congressional

ESPN.com’s Jason Sobel says Woods has won 29.1% of tournaments he’s played

Golf.com’s Alan Shipnuck says defending champ Anthony Kim not playing hottest golf coming in to AT&T National

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Matt Pilgrim would be a welcome addition to this Maryland team. Jordan Williams and James Padgett cannot be expected to be Lonny Baxter and Chris Wilcox, so frontcourt depth will be necessary in trying to build an ACC contender.

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

How would you respond to a friend who called you to say “Hey man, I have a ticket to Wednesday’s game; do you want to go?”

I mean, you might see exciting things like Adam Jones’ UNBELIEVABLE catch last night; but you’ll be hanging out with something like 30,000 Red Sox fans all night.

I’ll probably still go, but I already know I’m going to have a miserable time.

Of course, it is baseball; so it’s not like it would be thrilling anyway. At least I can yell at some Patriots fans.

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

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Luke Jones says Birds 31-62 vs. BoSox at OPACY since ‘98

Marco Romanell pleads for Orioles fans to come to Camden Yards

Glenn Clark says Tiger’s event amongst highlights of non-baseball week

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Berken struggled as Red Sox topped Birds

The Official Site provides numerical evidence of loss

The Official Site’s Brian Eller says Hill takes mound for O’s tonight vs. Smoltz, Red Sox

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Izturis likely still 3 weeks away from return

The Official Site’s Spencer Fordin says Birds’ roster ‘ideal’ for play vs. National League teams

Red Sox Official Site’s Lisa Winston says Papelbon nailed down 132nd career save to finish off win for Sox

The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Lester dominated Birds ‘again’

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Wigginton extended hit streak to 9 in loss

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says Jason Bay ended game with ‘terrific catch’

Examiner Jay Trucker says Birds went 11-4 against NL East teams not named ‘Marlins’

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says over 36,000 saw Red Sox top Birds at Camden Yards

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Hendrickson giving Birds relief from pen

The AP says Lester now 8-0 with 2.18 ERA in 10 career starts vs. Birds

The AP says players like Wieters, Reimold watched Smoltz on TV growing up

Boston Globe’s Amalie Benjamin says J.D. Drew homered, fell double short of cycle as Red Sox beat Birds

Boston Herald’s Sean McAdam says Pedroia reached base three times, added RBI single in win

Providence Journal’s Joe McDonald says Francona shuffled lineup before Red Sox beat Birds

Sporting News’ Ryan Fagan has Birds 23rd in power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

Norfolk Tides Official Site says Dorta slammed Tides past Lehigh Valley

Bowie Baysox Official Site says Livingston impressive as Baysox beat Altoona

Frederick Keys Official Site says Caleb Joseph homered for Keys in loss to Wilmington

Delmarva Shorebirds Official Site says Oliver Drake winner as Shorebirds topped Lakewood

Aberdeen Ironbirds Official Site says Colin Allen loser as Ironbirds fall to Staten Island

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Costanzo improving back down at Bowie

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Andy Mitchell winner as Tides topped IronPigs

Frederick News-Post’s Stan Goldberg says Richie Hebner held team meeting following loss to Blue Rocks

Virginian-Pilot says Jolbert Cabrera, Brandon Snyder added 2 hits each for Tides in win

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says ‘offensive identity growing’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh taking USO trip to Persian Gulf this week

ESPN.com’s Mark Schlabach says current, former SEC coaches make cameos in Oher movie

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Kruger will be backup DE, play some ‘rush’ LB

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Terps not getting much love in early projections

Washington Post’s Alan Goldenbach says Terps offered Friendship OT Earl Johnson scholarship

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Turner to be first 3 year starter in College Park since Brian Cummings (must subscribe)

Scout.com’s John Wallpher says Atholton WR prospect Matt Robinson now Terps commit (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman says Robinson’s commitment was ‘quick decision’

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Matt Bracken says former Terps target Stephenson expected to commit to Cincinnati

The Diamondback’s Michael Lemaire says with Elliot Williams gone from Duke, Terps have ‘arguably’ best backcourt in ACC

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Stephenson’s groping case adjourned again

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says prospect Roscoe Smith’s ‘enthusiasm and energy’ impressive at Charlottesville camp (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Oyefuwa competing for Great Britain at World University Games

TERRAPINS BASEBALL:

The Official Site says Vanderbilt assistant Bakich tabbed as new baseball coach

UMBC RETRIEVERS:

The Official Site says Suffolk (Virginia) prospect Jamar Wertz committed to Retrievers

STEVENSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Mustangs to begin playing at D3 level in 2011

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse’s Geoff Shannon says future Jays Chris Lightner, John Ranagan, John Greeley amongst most impressive players at Under Armour All-American game

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says OT Milke ‘looking forward to’ Ohio State game

SALISBURY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Gulls ranked 24th in USA Today preseason poll

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site previews Mariners’ playoff showdown with Reading Express

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

USL-2 Official Site says Real Maryland topped Palace 1-0

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-You have to get the feeling that this Michael Oher movie isn’t the most popular thing in the world of Michael Oher. I think that everyone who knew him at Ole Miss is excited for the opportunity to honor a kid they fell in love with for four years; but to have your life recognized on film when you are really just beginning it still seems to me to be more of a burden than anything. How will Oher’s teammates look at him when they turn on their TV’s and see trailer after trailer for a flick about a rookie?

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G