Happy Wednesday!

It’s a Happy Wednesday for me because it’s time to name two new “Greatest Song(s) of All Time This Week.”

I’ll start with the Retro Version. The retro version is in honor of tonight’s start of Hanukkah. My personal favorite (half) Jew is the great Lenny Kravitz, so here’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way?” If you’ve seen Lenny recently, please tell him to come back. He was freaking AMAZING.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLhpHjmxNw8[/youtube]

The NEW version of TGSOATTW is a song heard prominently on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST. I hope that tonight’s Grammy Awards nomination announcement features the band Ra Ra Riot. “Shadow Casting” is quite good…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvcxieyeg4k[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Ryan Chell says Ravens waived S Ken Hamlin, signed FB Jason McKie

As I reported yesterday, the Ravens also tried out former Cleveland Browns and Tennessee Titans TE/FB Joel Gamble before going with McKie. I was told they made the decision because they felt McKie was more of a natural fullback while Gamble was more of a hybrid. Gamble is a Baltimore native (and Carver grad).

As far as McKie is concerned, I can’t imagine him being asked to do much more than block-but they’ll definitely need him to block. The likelihood is that Le’Ron McClain’s ankle will probably keep him out Sunday night, and the Ravens’ current roster options just aren’t particularly good. Dennis Pitta can help and Jalen Parmele could see the field; but in a game where running the ball will be important-the Ravens will need a true blocking back.

Don’t rule out Hamlin returning to Charm City at some point this season. He was cut once (to make room for Prince Miller humorously enough) but returned in favor of Trevor Pryce. The Ravens like the veteran presence that Hamlin gives them-but he hasn’t even been active much in recent weeks.

2. WNST.net’s Drew Forrester says Ravens not concerned about outcry regarding towel giveaway

During our “Cheap Shots From the Bleachers” segment before last year’s Ravens-Steelers game at M&T Bank Stadium, I really used up all of the venom I have on this subject.

OF COURSE it’s shameful that the Ravens are giving away towels the night of a Ravens-Steelers game.

OF COURSE it’s embarrassing to hardcore Baltimore football fans to see their own team use a “copycat” version of a rival tradition.

OF COURSE fans should chose NOT to waive the towels but instead to use their hands to clap, bang thundersticks, or otherwise make noise.

OF COURSE the Ravens should really know better in this entire situation.

Unfortunately, they’re still going to give the stupid towel away Sunday night even though there is no one excited about it.

Hey-it makes a nice dish rag. If they were giving them away on the way out-I’d be okay with it. And even ol’ Forrester thinks it makes a nice wall flag…

3. The AP’s Alan Robinson says Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger wearing protective boot, expected to play Sunday vs. Ravens

OF COURSE Ben Roethlisberger is going to play Sunday.

(I’ve said “OF COURSE” a lot today. Annoying anyone?)

Of course, if Sabrina Maree lived in the Steel City (or here in Baltimore); I’m not so sure Big Ben wouldn’t be too distracted to make it to the game Sunday night. (Thanks The Beer Goggler via Busted Coverage!)

4. ESPN.com drops Ravens to 4th in power rankings

Calm down. The only three teams ahead of the Ravens are the Atlanta Falcons, New England Patriots and New York Jets; who are all 9-2. The Ravens are first amongst the 8-3 teams.

Before we move on from the Ravens, a few things…

-I’m all for the idea of a “No Means No” chant Sunday night. I think it has to start during TV timeouts right before the Steelers take the ball. If this happens, I will seriously OWE the city of Baltimore for being so freaking awesome.

-The Ravens return to the practice field at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills today. We’ll of course be out there to cover everything happening on and off the practice field. Make sure you remain tuned in to AM1570 WNST, checking out WNST.net and following us on Twitter (@WNST).

5. The Sun’s Dan Connolly says chances of Cesar Izturis returning to Orioles continue to improve

With no offense to Cesar Izturis, umm……..I’d rather not.

Connolly says Jason Bartlett will be dealt by the Tampa Bay Rays, but not to Baltimore. Miguel Tejada is headed to the San Francisco Giants, who lost Juan Uribe to the Los Angeles Dodgers. It could still be an option for the Minnesota Twins to deal JJ Hardy, but they’re not guaranteed to sign Tsuyoshi Nishioka or not move him to second base.

If all else fails, why not Maggi Caruthers?!?!? (Thanks Guyism!)

6. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Ralph Friedgen named ACC Coach of the Year, QB Danny O’Brien named Rookie of the Year

Both of these were sort of “no brainer” types of decisions.

The only other real options for Coach of the Year were Florida State’s Jimbo Fisher and Virginia Tech’s Frank Beamer. As the Seminoles did basically what everyone expected them to do and the Hokies only started playing well after losing to Boise State and James Madison; it would have been hard to justify either being honored ahead of Friedgen.

And I’m not sure I have many more words to scribe regarding O’Brien. Maybe it’s best the Terrapins DIDN’T make it to Charlotte to play in the ACC Championship Game. I’m not sure what else I could have said about him.

He’s like Matt Wieters. You know, expect…he’s actually done something.

7. UMTerps.com previews tonight’s tilt with Penn State in ACC/Big Ten Challenge

I’ll say Terrapins 77, Nittany Lions 69.

I think it will be close for a while though, and I don’t doubt that Talor Battle will get his.

But there would be no excuse for Maryland to not roll up to State College and dominate inside with Jordan Williams. That should absolutely be the difference maker.

SHOULD be I say.

8. The AP says Justin Fry’s 16 points not enough as UMBC fell at Penn

Randy Monroe’s Retrievers MIGHT be better than last year; but it hasn’t resulted in a win yet.

And with a trip to UConn coming Friday night-I’m not sure a win is coming soon either.

Towson is in action tonight, the Tigers host Western Michigan at the Towson Center at 7pm.

9. The AP says Michael Harper scored 19 points to lead Coppin State past Lincoln (Pennsylvania) at CSPEC

Now they gear up for not only an early season MEAC showdown; but the ultimate rivalry game-as they visit Hill Field House for a date with the Morgan State Bears Saturday at 4pm.

But to celebrate the Eagles’ win, I offer a picture of Dani Thompson. (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

10. The Sun’s Hanah Cho says Maryland officials maintain they will work to protect Preakness as future of horse racing in jeopardy

Did you miss Maryland Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association President Richard Hoffberger Wednesday morning with Drew Forrester on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net today to check it out! Other things you’ll find in the Audio Vault include…

• Mike Bires (Beaver County Times)-who talked Steelers with Drew Wednesday
• Rich Dubroff (Carroll County Times)-who talked Ravens with Drew Wednesday
• Paul Cantabene (Mustangs Lacrosse Coach)-who joined Drew Wednesday for “The Stevenson Coaches’ Report”
• A Birds starting pitchers game (courtesy of Sporcle.com) Drew and Glenn Clark (I know him) played Wednesday morning, as well as a call from “Steve M from Kingsville.”
• Keith Booth (Maryland assistant coach)-who joined Thyrl Nelson Tuesday for “The Terrapins Coaches’ Report”
• Scott Smith (Strikeforce Fighter)-who joined Thyrl and John Rallo Tuesday during “The MMA Report”
• Gregg Doyel (CBSSports.com)-who went around the sports world with Thyrl Tuesday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”
• Allen McCallum (WNST MLB Analyst)-who joined Rex Snider Tuesday for “The MLB Report”
• Gabrielle Dow (Ravens VP of Marketing)-who joined Nestor Aparicio Tuesday on “The Afternoon Drive” to discuss the towel fiasco
• John Czarnecki (FoxSports.com)-who went around the NFL Tuesday with Nestor

And finally, I leave you with this.

So apparently the North Carolina A&T band plays a version of the Antoine Dodson “Bed Intruder” song. Awesome. Thanks WNST intern Barry Kamen courtesy of Ryan Chell’s Facebook page…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3UsvLyu3N0[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Here’s a look at the night that was on Tuesday and the one that lies ahead on Wednesday along with a few random musings from the best seat in the house, literally, at home in front of the TV.

Yesterday, I speculated here that there was little chance that Pat Riley had any intentions of replacing Erik Spoelstra on the Miami Heat bench because their level of chemistry, commitment, and overall play, and the lack of assuredness that Riley himself would be able to get much more from this squad. With 24 hours to think on it, I might amend that line of thinking and say that Riley may replace Spoelstra, but he won’t likely jump back onto the bench himself. Yahoo Sports’ Adrian Wojinarski wrote this piece about how James’ me first act is a safe bet to wear thin pretty quickly, and speculates that it was James’ inner circle that began floating the “Spoelstra is panicking” rumors in the first place. With the Heat, and James headed to Cleveland on Thursday, the drama, and attention are bound to continue.

Speculation also abounds today that perhaps Roger Goodell’s main motivation behind not suspending Andre Johnson and/or Cortland Finnegan for their brawl on Sunday is because the Texans are playing on Thursday night. As it related to Johnson, Finnegan or even a possible James Harrison suspension (that won’t happen either), it would seem that the NFL’s appeals process would have allowed all 3 the chance to play this week, and every other until their appeals were heard. Maybe the NFL was afraid that Johnson would decline an appeal and serve his suspension to spite the league. I wonder if Goodell is compiling a manual of precedents for the punishments that the league is dishing out, seemingly at random, this season.

Jim Harbaugh, the Stanford coach, former Ravens’ quarterback and brother of Ravens head coach John Harbaugh projects to be one of the hottest commodities on the market as schools begin to make and fill coaching vacancies. Michigan seems like the natural fit, if they choose to part company with Rich Rodriguez, but some believe that Harbaugh would be crazy to leave Stanford, where success is measured in academics and his feet aren’t likely to be held to the fire anytime soon, even if his now successful program took a dramatic U-turn. I would be at least mildly surprised if Jim Harbaugh didn’t have at least one eye on the NFL if he has any desire to change jobs. It should develop into an interesting off-season story line.

With all of the purple towel resistance building before Sunday night’s game, crowd noise is becoming topical. Now there are talks of a “No means no” chant for Ben Roethlisberger. On the surface, it’s funny, hilarious actually, but that’s from my perspective. I’m guessing there’s another side of this issue that would find it tasteless and appalling. In other words, it might make the Steelers fans that are on hand a little more comfortable. Count me out on the “no means no” chant, but I’ll be listening, and laughing a little inside.

I have to say that no matter how the Derek Jeter negotiations work out, I am amused. I’m not sure what Jeter’s value might specifically be to the Yankees, but I’m pretty certain that 4 Derek Jeters wouldn’t be worth the kind of money that both sides are discussing to any other team. His legend is intact, his skill set is declining, and we’re talking about projecting him beyond his 40^th birthday. The one thing that has never failed Jeter in his opportunistic Major League career has been his timing. From the ball hit to Jeffrey Maier, to the inexplicable flip to get Jeremy Giambi at the plate, to seeking out his last payday with hit #3000 on the horizon, Jeter’s always been the guy in the right place at the right time.  

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COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Don’t call it a “pleasant surprise.”

Don’t call it a “respectable turnaround.”

Don’t dare call it a “nice story.”

After beating the 23rd-ranked North Carolina State Wolfpack 38-31 in their regular-season finale Saturday at Byrd Stadium, the Maryland Terrapins (8-4, 5-3 ACC) put the final touch on a season that can only be described as a “success.”

It might not be the type of success that will make fans in Baltimore and DC rush to purchase season tickets (Saturday’s attendance was only an announced 35,370), as it won’t end with an ACC Championship Game appearance and could possibly result in only a trip to the Military Bowl at RFK Stadium.

But by picking up win no. 8 against an NC State (8-4, 5-3) squad that would have clinched a berth in next week’s title game at Bank of America Stadium, the Terps bridged the gap between “good story” and “successful season.”

Then, athletic director Debbie Yow (who departed College Park for Raleigh in July) announced last December that she would retain head coach Ralph Friedgen. In an interview with Drew Forrester shortly thereafter on AM1570 WNST, she made it clear that her expectation for Friedgen’s 2010 Terps was at least a 7-5 finish.

Despite Yow being replaced in the AD post by Kevin Anderson this fall, it remained fair for those around the Maryland program to have an expectation for the Terps to finish the season 7-5. If Friedgen’s team really was moving in the right direction, their 2010 schedule was not so daunting that it couldn’t result in at least seven victories.

Seven wins would have been a feel-good story.

The eighth victory makes it a real success.

“I’m really happy for our players” said Friedgen. “(They’ll) finally hopefully start getting some respect. Even when we’re doing well, we never beat anybody. Well, we beat somebody tonight.”

The way Maryland came about victory no. 8 makes it even more impressive. After a November 20th loss to Florida State eliminated Maryland from having any chance of reaching Charlotte, it would not have been stunning to see the Terps roll over against the ‘Pack. Quarterback Russell Wilson and NCSU were still very much alive in the ACC title game picture, with legitimate dreams of an Orange Bowl berth.

It appeared as though that possibility would come to fruition early on Saturday, as the Terps fell behind 14-0 after two offensive possessions for each team. But freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien rallied the Terps, connecting with receiver Torrey Smith four times for touchdowns (a school record for the receiver), and the Terrapins wouldn’t allow another NC State touchdown until the fourth quarter, after they had already built a 21-point advantage.

There was particular emotion evident from Maryland players and coaches (including an exuberant leap from defensive line coach Dave Sollazzo following a fourth quarter sack by DL Drew Gloster) throughout the game. It was a stark contrast to what happened two seasons ago, when Maryland was eliminated from the ACC title picture in a blowout loss to the Seminoles, then finished the season with another loss at Boston College.

Friedgen said he was concerned about the possibility of a letdown.

“It was hard. I was concerned about it going into today’s game. I kinda talked to them last night. I said ‘things in life that you really want, you don’t always get. But sometimes it’s darkest before the dawn. And if you keep persevering and you keep working, sometimes all of a sudden good things happen.’ I said, ‘I know how down you are, but there’s nothing we can do about that but go back to work.’”

Friedgen’s words rang true with Maryland players.

“We were upset we weren’t playing for an ACC title because we felt like we were good enough to play in a game like that,” said O’Brien. “But like coach said, we still had a lot to play for. I think we got up to play where a lot of teams might not have.”

“He just told us we still had a lot to play for,” said senior linebacker Alex Wujciak. “Going to a good bowl game, finishing right on Senior Night, beating a ranked team, there’s still a lot of things that this game meant for us.”

Finishing a regular season with eight wins does not solve all of the problems surrounding the Maryland football program (as Saturday’s attendance made clear), but it absolutely offers a statement of hope for 2011 no matter what happens in Maryland’s bowl appearance.

The Terrapins clearly have a quarterback who they can expect big things from in O’Brien. Just 10 of the 44 players on their 2-deep roster (offense and defense) participated in Saturday’s Senior Day even — meaning the team will bring back plenty of talent (Smith could also be tempted to throw his name into the NFL Draft).

But 2010 was not just a season about building expectations for the future. It was a regular season that gave fans both thrills and memories. The final stop against Navy at M&T Bank Stadium, the debut of O’Brien against Florida International, the emotional win at BC after Pete DeSouza’s scooter accident and the offensive shows against Morgan State, Virginia and NC State will not be forgotten by the fans that had the pleasure of watching and following.

The 2010 Terrapins were not a team that made a good run or simply took advantage of a soft schedule. The 2010 Terrapins were a good team.

A good team whose on-field performance is deserving of being remembered as a success.

After a 2-10 season in 2009 and last week’s heartbreak of being eliminated in the ACC title race, the win most certainly capped the emergence of a Maryland team from darkness.

-G

Hear from Friedgen, O’Brien, Smith, Wujciak, Gloster, OC James Franklin and DC Don Brown following Maryland’s win NOW in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net!

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The final score failed to tell just how competitive Maryland was against Florida State Saturday night.

The Terps fell 30-16 to the Seminoles, ending their improbable dream of winning the Atlantic Division and advancing to the ACC championship game in two weeks. Maryland found itself in position to tie the game with under a minute left until Danny O’Brien threw a fourth-down interception at the 19 that was returned 96 yards by Nick Moody for a touchdown.

Maryland played much of the night like a team fully expecting to win and looked like they could do it through the game’s first three quarters. Despite losing three offensive linemen to injuries — a unit already decimated this season — the Terps compiled 432 yards, including 163 on the ground against one of the better run defenses in the nation. And despite allowing long touchdowns of 70 and 44 yards, the defense held Florida State to just four conversions on 14 third-down plays.

Misfortune also played a part in the fourth quarter when an O’Brien pass intercepted by Greg Reid appeared to hit the ground, but was upheld after official review. Even after the interception gave Florida State the ball on the Maryland 43, the defense held firm again, only to have the short punt hit defensive back Cameron Chism, leading to a Seminoles recovery and eventual field goal.

But when it came down to the crucial moments of the game, the Terps simply weren’t good enough, explaining why their ACC championship hopes ended Saturday and Florida State’s were still alive, needing a Maryland defeat over N.C. State next week.

The Terps committed four turnovers — half as many as their season total entering the game — and went just 5-for-16 on third down attempts. Despite 269 passing yards from O’Brien, the Maryland passing game lacked the ability — or the willingness — to throw downfield, allowing the Florida State defensive backs to play tight coverage much of the night.

Special teams breakdowns also hurt. In addition to the punt bouncing off Chism’s back (the safe return team was on the field to prevent a fake), the Seminoles ran a fake punt that led to a field goal late in the first half, tying the game at 13-13 as the teams went to halftime.

“You can’t turn the ball over four times, and I bet that they got 13 or 14 points off turnovers, maybe more (13 points was the total),” coach Ralph Friedgen said after the game. “We hadn’t been doing that, and I didn’t think we played well on special teams.”

When it counted most, the Terps were the antithesis of what had led to such an improbable turnaround from last season. All year long, Maryland had been careful with the football with O’Brien taking what the defense would give him.

“We were down,” said O’Brien, who tossed two interceptions and fumbled an option pitch to Davin Meggett that led to a first-quarter field goal. “It was a tough loss, just to lose down the stretch like that, it’s tough. We turned the ball over which hurts. When we win the turnover battle we seem to always win, but we didn’t do it tonight.”

Friedgen and the Terrapins will undoubtedly feel the sting of this one for awhile — especially if they manage to beat a tough N.C. State team next Saturday — but a heartbreaking loss to Florida State in no way diminishes what this group has accomplished in 2010.

Critics have maintained Maryland’s winning record is more a product of a soft schedule than a good football team, but the truth lies somewhere in the middle. While it’s clear the Terps have failed on several occasions to substantiate their record in games against quality opponents, you can’t take away what they’ve done after being picked to finish last in the Atlantic entering the season, even with their less-than-stellar schedule in mind.

The Maryland team we saw Saturday night wasn’t that far away from Florida State despite lacking the overall team speed of the Seminoles, which was apparent on Chris Thompson’s 70-yard touchdown run in the first quarter and Bert Reed’s 44-yard touchdown catch from Christian Ponder late in the third.

“We made a lot of plays in space, but on those two, they just broke on us,” said safety Kenny Tate, who made seven tackles and intercepted Ponder in the second quarter. “They’re a team that’s known for their speed, so you just have to get them to the ground any way you can.”

On another night, the Terps may have bested the Seminoles had they played the type of game that fit their season-long profile, but it’s a message nobody in that locker room wanted to hear following the game. Instead, Maryland must now look to its regular-season finale against N.C. State, with bowl implications still in play for the Terps and an opportunity to dash the Wolfpack’s division title hopes.

“I will be disappointed if we aren’t ready for N.C. State,” Friedgen said. “It’s the last game of the season for some of our seniors and 8-4 is a pretty good season. I’m not so worried about that with this team. I think that they will be ready for the next game.”

NOTES: The Terps will host N.C. State next Saturday at 3:30 p.m., a game that will be televised on ESPN2. … Maryland dropped its first home game of the season and failed to win the turnover battle for just the third time this season. … The Terps had nine tackles for loss against the Seminoles, setting a season high. … Tight end Will Yeatman earned his first career touchdown catch on a 7-yard toss from O’Brien early in the second quarter. The senior set career highs in catches (four) and yards (42). … Maryland surrendered 13 points off turnovers after allowing only seven points after miscues all year entering Saturday. … Da’Rel Scott rushed 10 times for 87 yards despite a violent, penalized hit by Florida State safety Greg Reid that temporarily knocked him from the game. “[The hit] kind of really got me going [running the ball].” … Right guard Justin Lewis (knee), center Bennett Fulper (hand), and freshman tackle Max Garcia (leg) all suffered injuries, causing the Terps to reshuffle the offensive line. Fulper, however, returned to the game after an X-ray on his hand was negative.

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — With ramifications no one would have predicted back in September, the Maryland Terrapins (7-3, 4-2 ACC) prepare to take on the Florida State Seminoles (7-3, 5-2 ACC) in a “blackout” at Byrd Stadium with the Atlantic Division crown still hanging in the balance with two games remaining in the regular season.

Fresh off Thursday’s announcement that Ralph Friedgen would return for his 11th season as Maryland coach next season, the Terps control their own destiny in the final two weeks, needing wins against the Seminoles and N.C. State next Saturday to grab the division title and advance to the ACC championship game in Charlotte on Dec. 4.

Coming off a 2-10 season in which seemingly everything went wrong for the Terps, Maryland has already improved its win total by five games behind the surprising play of freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien, who has earned ACC Rookie of the Week honors four times. He ranks fourth in the ACC in passing efficiency (133.5) and fourth among FBS (Div. 1-A) freshmen.

After turnovers plagued the Terps last season, they now possess an efficient offense that has turned the ball over a league-low eight times and rank 38th nationally in scoring offense (31.4 points per game).

Opposing the Terps will be the perennially-tough Seminoles who enter tonight’s game sitting atop the Atlantic Division (tied with the Wolfpack who won earlier Saturday and a half-game ahead of Maryland) under first-year head coach Jimbo Fisher.

O’Brien and the Maryland offense will face a stout Florida State defense that is second in the conference in rushing defense (110.8 yards per game) and 10th overall in the nation.

The Seminoles are led offensively by senior quarterback Christian Ponder who missed last week’s game against Clemson after sustaining an elbow injury. Despite battling various arm injuries this season, Ponder has thrown 16 touchdowns and just seven interceptions in nine games for the Noles.

Tonight’s game at Byrd Stadium will mark the first time the Terps have sported all-black this season, which includes black helmets this time around. Maryland is wearing special camouflage uniforms — complete with numbers very difficult to see from the Tyser Tower press box — designed by Under Armour to support the Wounded Warrior Project.

Maryland captains for tonight’s game include safety Antwine Perez, receiver and Baltimore’s own LaQuan Williams, punter-kicker Travis Baltz.

Be sure to join us in the Turtle Power live chat starting at 8:00 p.m. at WNST.net and follow us on Twitter (@WNST) for the quickest updates and analysis from College Park!

Despite a disappointing start to the weekend for Maryland basketball, the focal point of Terps Nation will be a raucous atmosphere at Byrd Stadium Saturday night with Ralph Friedgen’s surprising Terps (7-3, 4-2 ACC) hosting Florida State at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, and the Turtle Power live chat will be open for business at WNST.net.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj2wJTivzrc[/youtube]

Athletic director Kevin Anderson announced Thursday that Friedgen will return for his 11th season as Maryland coach in 2011, and the head coach hopes to take another step toward the Terps’ first ACC title since 2001, his first year at the helm.

Freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien (16 TD, 4 INT) has led the dramatic turnaround of a team picked to finish last in the Atlantic Division after a disastrous 2-10 season a year ago. Maryland controls its own destiny in the division with home games against the Seminoles and N.C. State to close the regular season. Should the Terps win both, they advance to the ACC Championship game on Dec. 4 at Bank of America Stadium — a place many of you will be visiting this weekend — in Charlotte.

I’ll be reporting live from Byrd Stadium in College Park, so plan to join us in a BLACKOUT version of the Turtle Power chat at 8:00 Saturday night as the Terps continue their improbable march toward the conference championship game!

If you love the Terps as much as we do, stay with WNST.net throughout the weekend, leading into our coverage live from Charlotte on Sunday when the Ravens take on the hapless Carolina Panthers!

Here are this weekend’s football picks. Through 10 weeks in the season, Drew Forrester is 83-59 and Glenn Clark is 84-58…

Ravens/Panthers: 34-6 Baltimore (Drew), 31-10 Baltimore (Glenn)
Bills/Bengals: 30-27 Buffalo (Drew), 20-17 Buffalo (Glenn)
Lions/Cowboys: 28-17 Dallas (Drew), 27-16 Dallas (Glenn)
Browns/Jaguars: 28-13 Jacksonville (Drew), 17-12 Jacksonville (Glenn)
Cardinals/Chiefs: 27-20 Arizona (Drew), 23-17 Kansas City (Glenn)
Packers/Vikings: 24-21OT Minnesota (Drew), 24-21 Green Bay (Glenn)
Texans/Jets: 24-10 New York (Drew), 28-23 New York (Glenn)
Raiders/Steelers: 24-19 Pittsburgh (Drew), 16-13OT Pittsburgh (Glenn)
Redskins/Titans: 27-23 Tennessee (Drew), 26-17 Tennessee (Glenn)
Seahawks/Saints: 33-17 New Orleans (Drew), 34-14 New Orleans (Glenn)
Buccaneers/49ers: 20-17 Tampa Bay (Drew), 14-13 San Francisco (Glenn)
Falcons/Rams: 27-23 Atlanta (Drew), 22-14 Atlanta (Glenn)
Colts/Patriots: 27-17 New England (Drew), 30-28 New England (Glenn)
Giants/Eagles: 23-21 Philadelphia (Drew), 26-23 Philadelphia (Glenn)
Broncos/Chargers: 30-10 San Diego (Drew), 28-18 San Diego (Glenn)
(Drew and Glenn both correctly picked the Chicago Bears to beat the Miami Dolphins Thursday night.)
Florida State/Maryland: 38-24 Seminoles (Drew), 20-17 Seminoles (Glenn)
Arkansas State/Navy: 29-20 Midshipmen (Drew), 38-17 Midshipmen (Glenn)
Towson/New Hampshire: 27-7 Wildcats (Drew), 27-6 Wildcats (Glenn)

If you missed the explanations during our “Picks and Comment” segment Thursday on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST, visit the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net!

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because Jimmy Fallon actually did something funny. I won’t even bother with a “no offense” precursor. Fallon really isn’t that funny.

But he was the other night.

Here’s Fallon (joined by Bruce Springsteen) performing a version of “Whip My Hair” by Willow…AS Neil Young.

Sounds complicated. Just watch. It’s REALLY funny.

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

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens not looking past Carolina Panthers

Nor could they.

As I’ve said ad nauseam this season, it just doesn’t work like that in the NFL.

In the NFL, players literally do nothing all week EXCEPT prepare for that Sunday’s opponent.

Everywhere a player walks in Owings Mills this week, they see pictures of Panthers players like Jon Beason. Every time they talk to a coach, they’re hearing something about John Fox’s schemes.

They might well know that their NFC South opponent is inferior, but they’re still spending an entire week with their single focus on that team.

No one is talking about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. No one is thinking about the Pittsburgh Steelers or the New Orleans Saints.

The ONLY thought process in the building this week is Sunday’s game in Charlotte.

In college football, there are distractions. An Alabama player can hear about Vanderbilt all week in practice, but when they go to class and when they’re sitting around the dorm room; their friends are all saying things like “yeah, but what about that Florida game?”

It doesn’t work that way in the National Football League.

The lecture halls are inside the facility. There are no dorm rooms.

There’s just a focus on Sunday’s opponent.

That doesn’t mean a victory is guaranteed at Bank of America Stadium Sunday. The ball isn’t round. Lots of things can happen.

But if the Ravens were to lose Sunday, it wouldn’t happen because the Ravens were looking past the Panthers this week.

2. The AP’s David Ginsburg says secondary play remains ‘primary concern’ for Ravens

As I said before, I genuinely believe personnel to be the problem for the Ravens defensively.

For example, how much better do you think the secondary would be if Chuck Pagano had Tiffany Taylor to work with? (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

3. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Panthers haven’t decided between Tony Pike or Brian St. Pierre as starter

Not exactly Joe Montana or Steve Young, huh?

I feel like Tony Pike’s familiarity with the system makes him the better option; but then again-it’s Tony Pike.

More bad news for Carolina Wednesday, as the team was forced to place RB DeAngelo Williams (foot) on Injured Reserve. With Jonathan Stewart and Tyrell Sutton also banged up, expect Mike Goodson to start Sunday.

So…you know, the Panthers have that going for them.

4. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Tom Zbikowski didn’t practice again; Tavares Gooden, Todd Heap and Fabian Washington were all limited

Before we move on from the Ravens, a few things…

-The Ravens will be back on the practice field today at 1 Winning Drive, with coordinators Cam Cameron, Greg Mattison and Jerry Rosburg scheduled to speak to the media following practice, as well as RB Ray Rice. Make sure you’re tuned in to AM1570 WNST, checking WNST.net and following us on Twitter (@WNST).

-Did you miss Ravens LB Sergio Kindle with Drew Forrester Thursday on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net today to check it out! Other things you can find in the Audio Vault include…

• Sean Salisbury (“Sean Unfiltered”-Voice America Sports Radio)-who went around the NFL with Drew Thursday
• Brett Adams (Mustangs Basketball Coach)-who discussed the “Pride of Maryland” DIII Tournament with Drew Thursday during the Stevenson Coaches’ Report
• Our Morning Reaction “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers” Thursday-as Drew took a shot at Andy MacPhail and Glenn Clark took a shot at Colin Cowherd
• Plenty of Audio From 1 Winning Drive Wednesday; including John Harbaugh, Joe Flacco, Josh Wilson, Ray Lewis, Derrick Mason and Jarret Johnson
• Larry McReynolds (NASCAR Analyst-Fox, SPEED)-who joined Rex Snider Wednesday on “The Afternoon Drive” to preview Sunday’s “Chase for the Cup” finale
• Clark Judge (CBSSports.com)-who went around the NFL with Rex Wednesday
• James Franklin (Maryland Offensive Coordinator/Head Coach in Waiting)-who joined Thyrl Nelson Wednesday for the “Terrapins Coaches’ Report”
• Heather Dinich (ESPN.com)-who went around ACC Football with Thyrl Wednesday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”

Once again, it’s all in the Audio Vault. Make sure you head over there today to check it out!

5. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Buck Showalter not a factor in American League Manager of the Year voting

And I think we’re all smart to enough to admit that because he only managed for a third of the season, he DIDN’T deserve the consideration. It of course doesn’t take away anything that he did for the Orioles this season.

You might not know this, but I get a Manager of the Year vote. It didn’t go to Ron Gardenhire OR Ron Washington. Instead, it went to Jodie Marsh. (Thanks Guyism!)

6. WNST.net’s Rex Snider wonders why Andy MacPhail didn’t go after Dan Uggla

Peter Schmuck addressed this in his blog yesterday. Dan Uggla wouldn’t have been a PERFECT fit for the O’s. They already have a second baseman in Brian Roberts, and there would be a learning curve for Dan Uggla should he be forced to move to third base. He’s also only under contract for one more year.

That being said, the O’s could ABSOLUTELY use his bat in their lineup.

Of course, the Birds could use ANY bat in the lineup. It won’t be Uggla, but there are other bats on the table.

I’ve already explained how I feel about Adam Dunn.

7. The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says legendary trainer Mack Lewis to be remembered with Charm City viewing today

It will be a great regret in my life that I was never able to get to know Mack Lewis.

The man was an incredible example of exactly what makes our city great. Almost in the vein of Bea Gaddy.

He will be sorely missed, and I am VERY sad that I never had the opportunity to sit down and talk with him.

Today’s viewing is from 4-8pm at the Vaughn C. Greene Funeral Home on York Rd. The funeral is tomorrow at 11am at Gilliam Concert Hall at Morgan State’s Murphy Fine Arts Center.

8. The Diamondback’s Jeremy Schneider says Maryland finally expecting big crowd at Byrd Stadium for Florida State battle Saturday night

The attendance has been a MAJOR issue for the folks in College Park.

Frankly, the attendance has a lot to do with why new AD Kevin Anderson wouldn’t guarantee Ralph Friedgen’s future despite solid on field performance this season.

The team deserves a great turnout Saturday night for the battle with the Seminoles.

It ISN’T just a game with major ACC Championship Game implications. It’s actually an elimination game for the Terrapins. If they lose Saturday night, the NC State game the following week will be meaningless, as FSU will guarantee themselves a 6-2 conference finish.

It’s a big game. There SHOULD be a big crowd.

9. The AP says Dylon Cormier scored 20 points to lead Loyola past UMBC at Reitz Arena

Also worth noting that Jamal Barney dropped in 14 points and 10 rebounds for Jimmy Patsos’ Greyhounds in the win; while Travis King lead Randy Monroe’s Retrievers with 22 points in the loss.

Morgan State is an action tonight, as Todd Bozeman’s Bears get another great chance to knock off a major conference opponent when they visit Providence at 7pm. Providence is picked to finish at the bottom level of the Big East this season, and Bozeman already has a win over a Big East team at Morgan State, as he beat DePaul in Chicago two years ago.

And some NCAA Tournament soccer action tonight, as Pete Caringi’s UMBC Retrievers visit Princeton at 7pm.

10. UMTerps.com previews Terrapins’ tussle with Pitt tonight at Madison Square Garden

I’ll go Panthers 84, Terps 71.

I wish I felt better about it.

To soften the blow, here’s a picture of Kelly Carrington. (Thanks Next Round!)

And finally, I leave you with this.

I hope to see you out at the Down Under Restaurant at Fullerton Pub tonight. We’re trying to raise 1,570 canned goods this holiday season-so we need your help!

If you come out, we can BS about sports. Or food. Or beer. Or rock and roll. Or chicks. Or Pro Wrestling. If you approach me with a Chris Jericho-related question, it might earn you a beer.

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

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

With three buses of Ravens fans flocking to Charlotte this weekend on the Miller Lite Purple Football Roadtrip (check out our Purple Pep Rallies if you’re making the trip), it’s easy to overlook a huge upcoming weekend for Maryland basketball and football.

Tonight, Gary Williams’ Terrapins arrive at the Mecca of Basketball, otherwise known as Madison Square Garden, for the championship rounds of the 2K Sports Classic benefiting Coaches vs. Cancer. After winning their first three games against undistinguished competition, the new-look Terps face a major test against No. 5 Pittsburgh.

Sophomore center Jordan Williams is off to a sensational start (averaging 21.0 points and 13.7 rebounds per game) and will need another big night for the underdog Terps to knock off the Panthers.

The game can be seen at 7:00 p.m. on ESPN2, so we’ll have the Turtle Power live chat open at WNST.net to discuss the happenings from the Garden.

The winner faces the victor of Illinois/Texas in the Championship Game Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. while the losers face off in the Consolation Game at 5:00 p.m. (both games airing on ESPN2). Regardless of the Terps’ fate against the Panthers, the Turtle Power chat will be open for business during Maryland’s Friday game.

Despite early optimism surrounding Maryland basketball, neither game will compare to the atmosphere at Byrd Stadium Saturday night as Ralph Friedgen’s surprising Terps (7-3, 4-2 ACC) host Florida State at 8:00 p.m. on ABC.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gj2wJTivzrc[/youtube]

Freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien (16 TD, 4 INT) has led the dramatic turnaround of a team picked to finish last in the Atlantic Division after a disastrous 2-10 season a year ago. Maryland controls its own destiny in the division with home games against the Seminoles and N.C. State to close the regular season. Should the Terps win both, they advance to the ACC Championship game on Dec. 4 at Bank of America Stadium — a place many of you will be visiting this weekend — in Charlotte.

I’ll be reporting live from Byrd Stadium in College Park, so plan to join us in a BLACKOUT version of the Turtle Power chat at 8:00 Saturday night as the Terps continue their improbable march toward the conference championship game!

If you love the Terps as much as we do, stay with WNST.net throughout the weekend, leading into our coverage live from Charlotte on Sunday when the Ravens take on the hapless Carolina Panthers!

Happy Wednesday!

It’s a Happy Wednesday for me because it’s time to name a couple “Greatest Song(s) of All Time This Week.” The NEW TGSOATTW honoree is from Zac Brown Band’s new CD “You Get What You Give”, which I can already tell you will be on my short list of nominees for Album of the Year this year. I love the tune “Keep Me In Mind.”

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFI8Sn-IoSI[/youtube]

The retro version stems from my trip to Atlanta last week, as I was reminded of the greatness of music from A-Town. Let’s not forget that this was the town that gave us the Black Crowes, Little Feat, Ludacris, Usher, Cee Lo Green, Sevendust and of course the AMAZING Outkast; who combine with Erykah Badu for “Humble Mumble”…

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

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. CSNBaltimore.com says Ravens’ Week 12 game with Tampa Bay Buccaneers at M&T Bank Stadium flexed to 4:15pm

LOVE this. Maryland plays NC State the night before, and I’m hoping it will be a relevant game that gets moved back to 8pm. If it does, I can use the extra sleep. 4:15pm is a PERFECT game time.

You would think that the game against the New Orleans Saints on December 19 would be a prime candidate to be flexed as well. The games at the Cleveland Browns and against the Cincinnati Bengals to end the season probably aren’t the type of premiere battles to warrant national television, but if there’s a lot on the line that could certainly change.

2. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Joe Flacco in Top 10 in NFL in big passing plays

“TAKE THE HANDCUFFS OFF!!!”

Some of the numbers on these 25+ yard passes might be a bit skewed by short passes that ended up going a great distance, but I think this is a legitimate statistic.

I’ve laughed at the “time to open up the offense” comments that some fans have directed to Cam Cameron in the past, but I will admit that the Ravens don’t have the personnel necessary to TRULY be the type of dynamic offense some folks want to see.

Hopefully Donte’ Stallworth can continue to progress health-wise and his speed will add something to the offense. That being said, the Ravens are STILL missing the 6’4″-6’5″ type WR to haul in jump balls downfield. I know there’s the whole NFL Draft process, but could they just petition to pick up Georgia WR AJ Green for the rest of the season?

3. ESPN.com drops Ravens to 4th in power rankings

Before we move on from the Ravens, a couple of things…

-We’ll be out at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills today as the Ravens return to the practice field. We’re expecting to hear from Head Coach John Harbaugh, LB Ray Lewis, Flacco and others following this morning’s walkthrough. Make sure you’re tuned in to AM1570 WNST throughout the day, following @WNST on Twitter and checking WNST.net for updates!

-The Carolina Panthers made a roster move Tuesday, signing veteran QB Brian St. Pierre from their practice squad. With starter Jimmy Clausen expected to miss Sunday’s battle in Charlotte, St. Pierre would back up rookie Tony Pike. Armanti Edwards is also on the roster, but the Panthers have been in the process of moving him to WR.

4. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Orioles have ‘already been in contact’ with free agent Adam Dunn

Is this thing on?

ATTENTION ANDY MACPHAIL: PLEASE FINISH THE JOB!

It is NOT enough to simply talk to free agents like Adam Dunn. Adam Dunn would be an almost PERFECT piece to add to the Birds’ lineup, but he has to agree to come to Charm City.

That’s the hard part.

That being said, Dunn’s been in the area and has played for a wretched franchise with few signs of hope. The American League might help his numbers, and while the Orioles might not want him to play first base-they also don’t have anyone blocking him from the position.

There’s no reason why the Orioles COULDN’T get Adam Dunn. Especially with all of that money they have their regional cable network.

Right?

RIGHT?

5. The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says former O’s prospect Scott Moore re-signed with Chicago Cubs

He will be missed.

To warm your hearts with Scott Moore gone, I figured I’d pass along this picture of Candice Boucher. (Thanks Brosome!)

6. UMTerps.com says Gary Williams announced Tuesday that Sterling Gibbs, Nick Faust officially signed LOI

While we knew both players had already committed to coming to College Park, but it’s always hard to feel TOO confident until that LOI is signed.

Maryland supporters can certainly breathe now.

They both SHOULD be good players at the college level, but clearly there is no guarantee. That being said, it is simply nice to see well thought of players headed to the University of Maryland.

Of course, we thought the same thing when McDonald’s All-American Mike Jones debuted at Comcast Center…

7. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Maryland center Jordan Williams named to Naismith Award watch list

While I doubt that Jordan Williams will be on the list at the END of the season, it is VERY nice to see his name on these lists (he’s also on the Wooden Award watch list) to start the season.

I did happen to think there was one notable name left off the watch list. Renata Kuerten. I believe there’s no relation to Gustavo. I know I’LL be watching. (Thanks Guyism!)

8. The AP says Rashawn Polk scored 29 points to lead Towson past Coppin State at Towson Center

And a nice debut from former Calvert Hall and Maryland big man Braxton Dupree, who tallied six points and 14 rebounds in his Tigers debut.

More local college hoops action tonight, as UMBC visits Loyola at Reitz Arena. Tip-off is at 7pm, you can see the game live on MASN.

And in women’s action last night, Maryland fell to Georgetown 53-45. I thought Brenda Frese was supposed to have a high-powered group this season?!?!?

9. Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terrapins trying to avenge ’08 loss to Florida State at Byrd Stadium Saturday

Did you miss Seminoles head coach Jimbo Fisher Wednesday with Drew Forrester on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault at WNST.net today to check it out! Other things you can hear in the Audio Vault include…

• Solomon Wilcots (CBS Color Analyst)-who previewed Ravens-Panthers with Drew Wednesday
• Todd Bozeman (Morgan State Hoops Coach)-who talked about the start of the Bears’ season with Drew Wednesday
• Anthony Burgos (Franklin High School Football Coach)-who previewed Friday night’s showdown with North Harford (they’re doing God’s work) with Drew Wednesday
• Steve Roberts (Arkansas State Football Coach)-who previewed the Red Wolves’ showdown with Navy Saturday in Annapolis with Thyrl Nelson Tuesday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”
• Wes Shivers (Strikeforce fighter)-who joined Thyrl Tuesday on “The MMA Report”
• Jamey Eisenberg (CBSSports.com)-who talked Fantasy Football with Rex Snider Tuesday on “The Afternoon Drive”

It’s all in the Audio Vault, so I’ve planned your day for you. You can thank me later.

10. People Magazine says Michael Phelps dating reality TV star Brittny Gastineau

You’re thinking to yourself: “You didn’t really just post this to put up a picture of Brittny Gastineau in her underpants, did you?”

You already know the answer.

And finally, I leave you with this.

Complex.com named this Trinity College miracle the greatest trick play in football history. It WAS pretty awesome, but does it top the hook and lateral from Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl? I don’t know…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfKL3EUj7vA[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G