Akron improves to 2-0 on the season with a 20-point win over Southern Cal in the opening game of the Charleston Classic.

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Kwan Cheatham had 15 points and Pat Forsythe added 15 points and nine rebounds to lead Akron past Southern Cal, 66-46, in the opening game of the Charleston Classic on Thursday.

The Zips took a double-digit lead in the first half and held off the Trojans to beat a Power Five conference member for the fourth straight season.

Noah Robotham added 14 points for Akron, which opened 2-0 for the fourth time in coach Keith Dambrot's 11 seasons.

Southern Cal (1-2) cut Akron's 17-point lead down to 47-40 on Nikola Jovanovic's basket with 10 minutes left. That's when Antino Jackson hit two straight 3-pointers to give the Zips back their comfortable lead.

Jovanovic had 11 points to lead the Trojans, who shot just 28.3 percent (15 of 53) for the game.

This was Akron's first game since senior Demetrius "Tree" Treadwell was suspended indefinitely by the school Sunday. Treadwell had 10 points and 13 rebounds in Akron's opening win over Maryland-Baltimore County last Friday night.

Akron, the only Mid-American Conference team to win 20 games each of the last nine seasons, was seeking another victory over a Power Five conference school — it has beaten one in each of the past three seasons — and got going in a hurry. Cheatham and Robotham had 3-pointers as the Zips led 8-2 in the first three minutes.

After Southern Cal closed to 18-14 on Jovanovic's basket, Akron took off on an 18-8 run powered by the inside power of Forsythe and the outside shooting of Cheatham and Robotham.

Forsythe scored six points in the run while Cheatham and Robotham each added another long-range basket. When Robotham broke free for an easy layup with 13 seconds left, Akron was up 36-22.

The Trojans closed the half with a power jam by Darion Clark to head to the locker room down 36-24.

Southern Cal trailed nearly the whole game in its home opener, losing to Portland State 76-68 last Friday night. The Trojans rebounded Monday night with a 70-58 win over Tennessee Tech before arriving here.

Tip ins: The Trojans have no seniors and just three juniors on their 14-man roster. Southern Cal started three freshmen and two sophomores against the Zips. ... The Zips have posted wins over Power Five conference members in each of previous three seasons, winning at Mississippi State in 2011-12, Penn State the following year. and Oregon State last season.

Up next: Southern Cal will play either Miami or Drexel in Charleston Classic's second round Friday. Akron will play either Miami or Drexel in Charleston Classic's second round Friday.

Martin 4-7 0-3 10, Jovanovic 3-8 5-8 11, Reinhardt 2-10 2-2 6, McLaughlin 2-9 4-5 8, Jacobs 1-4 0-0 2, Clark 2-5 1-2 5, Bryan 0-3 0-0 0, Dukes 0-0 0-0 0, Gavrilovic 0-1 0-0 0, Marquetti 1-5 2-2 4, Stewart 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 15-53 14-22 46.

Cheatham Jr. 6-14 0-0 15, Forsythe 6-11 3-4 15, Evans 1-3 0-0 2, Robotham 4-6 4-5 14, McAdams 1-5 0-0 2, Ibitayo 2-6 2-2 7, Gladden 0-3 0-0 0, Walters 0-0 0-0 0, Aa. Jackson 0-0 1-2 1, Hill 0-0 0-0 0, Kretzer 0-3 0-0 0, Noble 0-0 0-0 0, Johnson 1-2 0-0 2, An. Jackson 3-7 0-0 8. Totals 24-60 10-13 66.

Halftime - Akron 36-24. 3-Point Goals - Southern Cal 2-12 (Martin 2-2, Marquetti 0-1, Stewart 0-1, McLaughlin 0-3, Reinhardt 0-5), Akron 8-27 (Cheatham Jr. 3-7, Robotham 2-3, An. Jackson 2-6, Ibitayo 1-3, Kretzer 0-2, Evans 0-2, McAdams 0-4). Fouled out - Stewart. Rebounds - Southern Cal 39 (Jovanovic 9), Akron 41 (Forsythe 9). Assists - Southern Cal 6 (Jacobs, McLaughlin 2), Akron 14 (Evans 4). Total fouls - Southern Cal 17, Akron 17. A - NA.

The winter storms have buffeted the area, but hardy anglers are still casting for walleye and steelhead trout and finding some success. While ice has been forming quickly on the smaller ponds and lakes, it's way too early to venture out on the hard stuff.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The winter storms have buffeted the area, but walleye and steelhead trout are still in the spotlight. Fair catches have been reported from the Lake Erie piers and breakwalls. Some very few hardy boat anglers are trolling again after dark.

While ice has been forming quickly on the smaller ponds and lakes, it's way too early to venture out on the hard stuff. The tailwater fishing should be good at area reservoirs, with sauger fishermen focusing on Pleasant Hill and Charles Mill reservoirs.

CLEVELAND AREA

The daytime steelhead trout fishing and after-dark walleye angling have been fair all week when the wind and waves cooperate with fishermen casting from shore. As usual, the East 55^th St. and East 72^nd St. piers have been the hot spots, casting heavier minnow-style plugs such as the Rapala Husky Jerk and Smithwick Perfect 10.

The near-shore waters are dirty, but expect boaters to be launching as the air temperatures warm for the weekend. Trollers are relying on fairly short leads to target walleye feeding close to the surface.

LAKE ERIE

The warming trend, despite rains in the forecast, should give walleye fishermen another chance to hook a trophy before the ice shuts down the early winter fishing. The usual shoreline hot spots have been producing, but with colder temperatures the walleye have been fickle.

INLAND LAKES, RESERVOIRS

Ice has already covered some of the smaller waters around northeast Ohio, but it's far too early to consider hard water fishing. The best bet this weekend should be tailwater fishing at Ohio's reservoirs. Sauger should be hitting jig-minnow and jig-twister tail rigs at Pleasant Hill and Charles Mill reservoirs, while walleye will be targeted with the same lures at Mosquito and Pymatuning reservoirs.

The Cleveland Metroparks announced it is beginning its winter trout stockings at its five local lakes in the middle of December.

RIVERS AND STREAMS

Ice and slush have made the steelhead trout fishing quite difficult in the local rivers and streams, but some trout are being caught from the deeper pools. The weekend fishing will be determined by how much the weekend thaw and rains affect water quality and stream water levels.

FISHING TOURNAMENTS, DERBIES

Fall Brawl Walleye Derby: 1. Tyler Ish, 11.655 pounds, 31.5 inches; 2. Lavell McKinny, 11.630 pounds, 29.5 inches; 3. Matthew Thompson, 11.405 pounds, 31.5 inches. Derby runs through Nov. 30.

Browns tight end Jordan Cameron is still idle with his concussion, Karlos Dansby is close to being ruled out with his knee injury and Jabaal Sheard has an outside chance to play this weekend.

BEREA, Ohio -- The long-awaited appearance of Pro Bowlers Josh Gordon and Jordan Cameron on the field together isn't likely to materialize Sunday in Atlanta.

Cameron was still idle with his concussion on Thursday, which means he's probably still a longshot to get on the field this weekend. If he can't play, it will mark his fourth straight absence.

Cameron spent some time in the locker room Wednesday during the portion open to the media and seemed to be in good spirits. But he can't get on the practice field until he's completely symptom free. He suffered the concussion Oct. 26 against the Raiders when safety Brandian Ross hit him in the head and neck area with his helmet when Cameron was defenseless.

Ross was fined $22,050 for the illegal hit, and Cameron hasn't taken a snap since then. It also marked the third concussion for Cameron in less than two years, which is cause for concern. Multiple concussions have been linked to long-term brain issues, and team doctors are taking Cameron's case very seriously.

Safety Johnson Bademosi is also still idle with his concussion and likely to miss his third straight game.

Other Browns resting Thursday included linebacker Karlos Dansby (knee), linebacker Jabaal Sheard (foot), and receiver Marlon Moore (hamstring).

In other Browns injury news:

• Coach Mike Pettine said he's not ready to rule out Dansby (sprained knee) just yet, "but it's getting close. I wouldn't say it's encouraging.'' He joked that he's heard all about Dansby's go-to food of lobster mashed potatoes, which Dansby credits with helping him play at a high level, "but I haven't partaken.''

• On the other hand, Pettine said of outside linebacker Jabaal Sheard (foot): "There's an outside chance he can go this weekend.''

Some other quick-hits from the pre-practice press conferences:

• Pettine said Josh Gordon "looked good in the uniform'' on his first day back Wednesday. He said the temptation is to "throw him out there for 75 reps, but I don't know if that's prudent.

• He said Brian Hoyer was like a kid at Christmas with a new toy with Gordon on the field: "Somehow, every time Gordon was out there, the ball mysteriously went to him.''

• He cautioned that "we have to make sure (Hoyer) doesn't develop tunnel vision'' and continue to go through his progressions with the other receivers on any given play. A little more about this later after we talk to offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan after practice.

• He said he "could see some scenarios'' where No. 8 overall pick Justin Gilbert gets on the field in Atlanta. Gilbert didn't play on defense at all against the Texans, and defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil said it's because undrafted rookie K'Waun Williams is playing so well. "It's hard to keep him off the field." He said Gilbert would have to beat out outside corners Joe Haden and Buster Skrine to get playing time, and he hasn't been able to do that. "He's fourth on the totem pole,'' he said. More coming after practice on this story of the No. 8 overall pick not getting playing time 10 games into the season and the emergence of Williams.

• Browns special teams coordinator Chris Tabor said The Rabbit is back. Travis Benjamin has earned back his punt return duties.

LeBron James, Paul Pierce renew their rivalry Friday night.

WASHINGTON, DC -- There has been much talk about LeBron James and rivalries this week.

The Spurs aren't his rival. The Washington Wizards, who James and the Cleveland Cavaliers play Friday, used to be.

Then there is Paul Pierce, the Wizards forward whom James has locked horns for 12 seasons. According to ESPN's stats shop, James and Pierce have faced each other 64 times, each winning 32.

A majority of their battles took place when James was on the Cavaliers and Pierce was with the Celtics, and their rivalry continued when James moved to the Miami Heat.

Pierce's Celtics knocked James' Cavaliers out of the playoffs multiple times, including in the Eastern Conference semifinals in 2010 -- after which James chose to leave.

James' Heat got the best of Pierce's Celtics the next two seasons, and Miami beat the Brooklyn Nets with Pierce there in the 2014 Eastern Conference semifinals.

"He's always been great to compete against," James said Friday, following the Cavaliers' shootaround in Washington. "I've always said he's one of the best guys I've ever competed against. We've been in the same conference my whole 12 years, so it's been extremely fun. It's been competitive, hopefully we can continue to keep it going."

Pierce spoke to Washington reporters this week about his rivarly with James, which has often been testy.

"I really think a lot of it is misunderstood," Pierce said. "If I see LeBron walking down the street, it's not going to be no fistfight. I got a lot of respect for him. It's just the competitive nature of both of us, being at the same position, being on top teams for the same trophy year in and year out. That's where that comes into play. It's like fighting for the same girl. Why do I want to be cool with that guy? But I got total respect for him as a person. It's just the things we go through is all on the court and that's where we leave them."

James, in his 12th season, is second in the NBA in scoring at 25.9 points per game. Pierce, in his 17th season, is averaging 12.3 points for the Wizards.

Doug, Ari, Bill and Livy give their picks for Ohio State's game against Indiana, which kicks off at noon on Saturday in Ohio Stadium.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — We all took a hit in our records against the spread last week, but we each had the right outcome for Ohio State's 31-24 win over Minnesota.

We're all predicting a Buckeyes win this week when No. 6 Ohio State (9-1, 6-0 Big Ten) hosts Indiana (3-7, 0-6) for a noon kickoff on Saturday in Ohio Stadium.

Our picks are below. Be sure to give yours in the comments section and prove you're smarter than us.

Doug Lesmerises picks Ohio State 40, Indiana 24

I made my thoughts pretty clear on this in our outrageous predictions, when I explained why I thought Indiana, 0-6 in the Big Ten, could take a two-score lead on the Buckeyes at some point.

So are the Hoosiers a team that could win at No. 20 Missouri, hang with No. 6 Ohio State and in between lose by an average of 23 points per game to Maryland, Iowa, Michigan State, Michigan, Penn State and Rutgers?

I think they could be.

Ari Wasserman picks Ohio State 51, Indiana 13

I think we've all been anticipating that Ohio State is going to fall into some sort of trap, and maybe last weekend's narrow win at Minnesota counts as that? I know that people perceive that win as a quality victory for the Buckeyes, and beating a ranked team on the road in the snow means something. But if we're truly honest with ourselves, Ohio State dominated an overmatched Minnesota team and won by seven. 

Every week I pick blowouts because I think Ohio State is way better than the opponent. But even more than that, I keep thinking Meyer is going to want to pour it on real nice for a statement win for the College Football Playoff Committee. 

Ohio State is much, much better than Indiana. So bring on the blowout. 

Bill Landis picks Ohio State 48, Indiana 10

Indiana running back Tevin Coleman might be the best individual talent Ohio State has seen this year, but he's not enough to make this a close game on Saturday. He ran for 307 yards against Rutgers last week, and that was a 22-point loss for Indiana.

The Buckeyes have given up some big rushing numbers the last two weeks, and it's possible Coleman goes for somewhere between 150-200 yards, but the quarterback play is just not there. Maybe Coleman gets in the end zone a few times and gets Indiana to 20-24 points, but the Buckeyes should have no problem reaching the high 40s or 50s.

Ohio State's offense is still clicking, and Indiana doesn't have the personnel to stop it.

Bill Livingston picks Ohio State 49, Indiana 14

I don't think one man, not even Tevin Coleman or Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon, can beat a team like Ohio State. (But I do think Wisconsin has the other parts to be capable of doing so. Not Indiana.)

It could be closer than this if bad Jalin Marshall is still plagued by fumbles. The Buckeyes could cover the huge spread if good Jalin breaks loose, as he did from time to time last week in brutal conditions in Minneapolis.

I'm banking on the momentum of the playoff chase and the downgraded quality of the opposition in the Hoosiers. Indiana is not a rival. That is Michigan next week. Indiana is not a developing team, just finding out how good it can be. That was Minnesota last week.

If Indiana hangs around, the Buckeyes don't deserve to be in the playoffs.

Season records

Straight up: Ari (9-1), Livy (9-1), Landis (8-1), Doug (7-3)

Against the spread: Landis (6-3), Ari (6-4), Livy (5-5), Doug (4-6)

Be sure to like our cleveland.com Ohio State sports Facebook page, where we'll keep you up to date with everything that's happening in the world of Ohio State football, basketball and recruiting.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Kim Kardashian broke the Internet with her backside on the cover of Paper Magazine last week and now Mike Golic is breaking everyone's retinas with his re-creation of the viral nude photo.  Golic, a Cleveland native, lost a bet in the Mike & Mike Bowl after Northewestern defeated Notre Dame, according to ESPN. (View the photo here, but...

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Kim Kardashian broke the Internet with her backside on the cover of Paper Magazine last week and now Mike Golic is breaking everyone's retinas with his re-creation of the viral nude photo. 

Golic, a Cleveland native, lost a bet in the Mike & Mike Bowl after Northewestern defeated Notre Dame, according to ESPN. (View the photo here, but you've been warned ... this cannot be unseen.)

Not only did Golic pose with his naked backside, but because Northwestern beat Notre Dame, he also sang the Wildcats' fight song while wearing Pat Fitzgerald's jersey to pay off his wager to his ESPN co-host Mike Greenburg.  

The reaction on Twitter to the photo is a little different than of Kardashian's. Instead of #BreakTheInternet trending, #GolicButtPhoto is. 

Also, someone already created a shirt with the image and it can be yours for $49.84. 

Ohio State hosts Indiana on Saturday at noon in Ohio Stadium.

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes return home on Saturday to host Indiana on Saturday in Ohio Stadium. Kickoff is set for noon.

The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network with Kevin Kulger, Glen Mason and Lisa Byington on the call. A full list of Ohio State's radio affiliates can be found here.

• Make your pick for Ohio State football vs. Indiana: Prove you're smarter than us

• Outrageous predictions for Ohio State football vs. Indiana: Hoosiers take the lead, 2 TDs for Jeff Heuerman

The Buckeyes (9-1, 6-0 Big Ten) are coming off a pair of road wins over Michigan State and Minnesota that have Ohio State two spots removed from the College Football Playoff. With a win on Saturday, Ohio State would clinch a spot in the Big Ten championship game.

Indiana (3-7, 0-6) is struggling, but has one of the nation's best running backs in Tevin Coleman, who rushed for 307 yards in a loss to Rutgers last week.

We'll have coverage throughout the weekend as Ohio State looks for its ninth consecutive win.

The event returns to the Cleveland Metroparks Polo Fields.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The 50^th Anniversary Cleveland Grand Prix will be held July 2-12, 2015 at Cleveland Metroparks Polo Fields, the Chagrin Valley Professional Horsemen's Association announced.  The event was not held last summer.

The Western Hemisphere's original grand prix event is one of the nation's top charity horse shows. It attracts national and Olympic riders for events that include four shows: Ohio Professional Horsemen's Association point show for local equestrians, the AA USEF-rated Chagrin Valley Hunter Jumper Classic including an international Hunter Derby, the Riders with Special Needs Horse Show, and the Cleveland Grand Prix. 

Included in the festivities is a Family Fun Day, Horse and Hound Relay, boutique shopping and specialty foods. 

The Cleveland Grand Prix celebrates 50 years as the first show jumping event in North America. Equestrians such as Mary and Frank Chapot from the 1964 Olympic team, Margie Engle, Kent Farrington, George Morris and Rodney Jenkins have competed.

The show is run by the nonprofit board of the Chagrin Valley Professional Horsemen's Association and a team of more than 200 volunteers.

Against Minnesota, J.T. Barrett had one of the biggest offensive plays of the year for the Buckeyes. Former OSU lineman Andrew Moses takes a look at why that play worked in this week's edition of Buckeye Chalk Talk.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Welcome to this week's edition of Buckeye Chalk Talk with former Ohio State football offensive lineman Andrew Moses. Last time, we talked about the adjustments made on the fly by the Ohio State football coaches that helped turn the game against Michigan State.

This week we break down J.T. Barrett's 86-yard touchdown run in the first quarter of Ohio State's snowy 31-24 win at Minnesota.

While they didn't constantly blitz, the Golden Gophers consistently stacked the box with eight defenders on typical run downs and played man coverage with no safety help over the top. 

It was clear the Minnesota defensive coaching staff was determined to stop Ohio State's inside run game with Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott and his runs in between the tackles pounded Michigan State in East Lansing, something the Minnesota defense coaches saw on film preparing for Ohio State.

Watch my breakdown above to see how Barrett got loose for his first big play against Minnesota. If you'd like to see the actual footage of this week's play, check out the game video here:

Andrew Moses was an offensive lineman for Ohio State from 2005-2009. He was named Academic All-Big Ten twice, played in 27 games, started one, lettered in 2008 and 2009, and served as a team captain for the New Mexico State game his senior year. He graduated from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 2013 and currently is an associate attorney at Brouse McDowell in their Cleveland office.

The Cleveland Browns are still looking for some happy returns from the time they've invested in Travis Benjamin as a punt returner. Could this be the week? -- Bud Shaw's Spinoffs

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Because there's always something to spin in Cleveland sports...

• Travis Benjamin believes the extra workload on offense may have compromised his punt return performance.

So maybe the return of Josh Gordon can lighten Benjamin's load and put punt return on his front burner.

"It's steaming up," Benjamin told reporters this week, hopefully not meaning his glasses.

You'd like to think Benjamin is right. Because that sounds like grasping for (and fumbling) straws.

• Undrafted rookie K'Waun Williams has been a pleasant surprise for the Browns. So has Isaiah Crowell.

If the NFL ever does away with the draft, advantage Ray Farmer.

• Headline: "Cavs focus on defense."

Part of their new defensive strategy apparently is to hide their commitment and make teams believe they're not focusing on defense.

Well played.

• Cavs' GM David Griffin is looking for any deal that can improve a team expected to compete for a NBA title.

"No one is untouchable," Griffin told cleveland.com

Except Griffin himself. And coach David Blatt.

If LeBron James says so.

• The New England Patriots welcomed former Pats' running back LaGarrett Blount, who was waived earlier this week by the Pittsburgh Steelers.

You might think three's a crowd in a backfield that already includes Shane Vereen and Jonas Gray, who ran for four touchdowns against Indianapolis last time out.

"Having another guy in the backfield is cool," Vereen told reporters.

#thingsBenTatewouldneversay

• After Blount was waived, former Steelers' running back Isaac Redman weighed in on Twitter:

Some guys just don't understand what it means to wear the black and gold. Smh

— Isaac Redman (@ired33) November 19, 2014

If he were shaking his head over that, wonder what he he was doing when Rashard Mendenhall shared curious Tweets about Osama bin Laden, earning him black and gold tar feathers.

• Steelers' defensive back Mike Mitchell heard criticism from his own coach, Mike Tomlin, after launching himself over the Jets' line when New York was in victory formation two weeks ago. Tomlin said the play was "not professional."

This week, Mitchell got in a Twitter war with fans and told one to "kill yourself."

#blackandgold #shakingmyhead

• Tiger Woods objected to Hall of Fame golf writer Dan Jenkins' parody column in which Jenkins' clearly pretended to interview Woods. Jenkins is 84. He's only been writing these kind of columns for the last 60 years or so.

Woods' answers were clearly not his own in the column. Somehow Woods believes people might have thought they were.

So, with Tiger clearly entering his Literal Phase, don't try to tell him his back is against the wall if he's ever going to break Jack Nicklaus' record of 18 majors.

Unless he is pinned to a nearby wall.

• The Oakland Raiders beat the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday, ending their streak of 10 consecutive losses this season and 16 over the past two seasons.

They went 368 days without a win. And when they finally ended it, they did it by beating a first-place team that had won five straight.

And still you wager.

• The Chiefs fell behind 14-0 then rallied to take their first lead in part because of a 28-yard punt return by Frankie Hammond.

Prompting all Cleveland Browns fans to say, in unison, "What's a punt return?"

• Paul Pierce doesn't want people to think he has issues with LeBron James.

The former Celtics' great, now with Washington, says his "thing" with LeBron is all about competition and nothing personal.

Pierce said he was happy to see James return to Cleveland.

"That's good for him and good for the game," Pierce told reporters. "It also shifts the balance of power. We all know how tough it is to put together a team and try to win a championship in that first year, which makes the Eastern Conference that much wide open."

Wide open?

Pierce might not have an issue with James. But Cavs fans now have an issue with him, especially the 90 percent of Cavs fans who've already bought confetti in bulk.

• There is hot stove talk that the Yankees' might have interest in Nick Swisher. Theory is he could help as a fourth outfielder and first baseman.

If the Indians would have to eat some of his salary to move him to the Yankees, I'm afraid we might all be thrown to our deaths in a world turned upside down.

• DeSean Jackson used Instagram last week to send a passive aggressive message after another Redskins loss, saying, "You can't do epic s---t with basic people."

He followed it up with this explanation:

"Whoever feels like it's directed at him, that's who it's directed at," said Jackson.

Now, huddle up for some "Kum-bah-ya," he forgot to add.

For more Bud Shaw, read You Said It

"There's some NFL players in this league carrying the ball," Meyer said. "And I think Zeke, I've got to throw my guy in there now. For whatever reason, he's not having the same touches, but I like our back."

COLUMBUS, Ohio – On the same day Minnesota running back piled up 145 rushing yards and three touchdowns on Ohio State's defense, Indiana's Tevin Coleman rushed for 307 yards and Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon rushed for 408 in three quarters, setting a new FBS record. 

Indiana is Ohio State's next opponent. 

Wisconsin is who the Buckeyes will likely face if they make it to the Big Ten Championship Game on Dec. 6. 

So it's no wonder that Big Ten running backs have been the talk around the conference this week, starting with Urban Meyer's Monday news conference previewing the Buckeyes' matchup with the Hoosiers. 

Meyer thought one more name belonged in that mix: Ezekiel Elliott. 

"There's some NFL players in this league carrying the ball," Meyer said. "And I think Zeke, I've got to throw my guy in there now. For whatever reason, he's not having the same touches, but I like our back."

Does Elliott's name really belong in that same mix with Cobb, Gordon, Nebraska's Ameer Abdullah and Michigan State's Jeremy Langford? The sophomore running back hesitated a minute, then responded. 

"Yes," Elliott said. Give the sophomore credit – he's making his case. 

Ranked No. 33 in the country with 95.4 rushing yards per game, Elliott is on the brink of becoming Meyer's second 1,000-yard running back.

It's hard to compare Elliott's numbers to the first running back to break the 1,000-yard mark under Meyer in Carlos Hyde, who rushed for 1,521 yards on 7.3 yards per carry last season. Hyde ran behind a veteran offensive line made of four seniors and became Ohio State's main offensive focus. 

View full sizeOhio State running back Ezekiel Elliott has had a very productive sophomore season. Marvin Fong, The Plain Dealer 

When it comes to Elliott – who is 46 yards shy of 1,000 yards – Meyer admits the sophomore probably doesn't have enough touches. But when Elliott does, he makes the most of it. 

"It means a lot," Elliott said. "It's something you dream of when you're a kid, being a football player at a Division I college, being able to rush for 1,000 yards. That's just a great accomplishment."

Ironically enough, whether Meyer's system was capable of producing a 1,000-yard back was a point of contention during Elliott's recruitment. Hyde hadn't done it yet when Elliott was a senior in high school, and there was some concern that Meyer's spread offense wouldn't give him the platform to succeed. 

But Elliott's versatility is the reason Meyer fell in love with him during the recruiting process, and it has come to the surface in college. Not only does Elliott lead Ohio State in rushing, he also has 18 receptions for 162 yards. 

Oh, and Meyer said Ellliott is the best running back he's ever coached when he doesn't have the ball in his hands. That means blocking, playing out fakes, everything. 

"They can really rush the ball, I think their running back is extremely undervalued," Indiana head coach Kevin Wilson said on Tuesday's Big Ten teleconference. "This league's got some tremendous running backs, but their young back Ezekiel is a pretty special kid."

Listen to our podcast with The Plain Dealer's Dennis Manoloff.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Will the Browns beat the Falcons? Is DMan worried about the Cavaliers?

The Plain Dealer's Dennis Manoloff answered those questions and more in his weekly podcast with cleveland.com's Dan Labbe.

Among other topics discussed:

• If Brian Hoyer struggles Sunday, does it re-ignite the QB debate?
• What emerging trends are concerning for the Cavaliers?
• Will the Indians actually be able to move Nick Swisher contract?

You can download the MP3 or listen with the player above.

Be sure to follow DMan on Twitter.

Hudson football fans are riding high as the team heads into Week 3 of the OHSAA playoffs. See 5 reasons they should believe it's their year for a state title.

Hudson football fans are riding high as the team heads into Week 3 of the OHSAA playoffs. See 5 reasons they should believe it's their year for a state title.

Wondering whether or not to start Aaron Rodgers and DeMarco Murray, or to bench Teddy Bridgewater and Robert Woods? The network bozos specialize in that kind of advice. If you're looking for help with your real starting lineup conundrums, read on.

Wondering whether or not to start Aaron Rodgers and DeMarco Murray, or to bench Teddy Bridgewater and Robert Woods? The network bozos specialize in that kind of advice. If you're looking for help with your real starting lineup conundrums, read on.

Here are my picks to roll, and get rolled, in Week 12 of the 2014 season.

Watch 'em roll

Andy Dalton, QB, Bengals at Texans. Yeah, I'm probably crazy for recommending Dalton, despite his unexpected rebound in New Orleans last week. But with a healthy A.J. Green anchoring a salty receiving corps, and the Texans' porous secondary on tap, the Red Rifle will have every opportunity to continue his road heroics.

Trent Richardson, RB, Colts vs. Jaguars. Even with Ahmad Bradshaw on IR, Richardson is no sure thing as the bell cow back in Indy. What makes him attractive this week is the matchup against the Jags' lowly run defense. At long last, T-Rich is finally worth starting again. At least for one week.

Isaiah Crowell, RB, Browns at Falcons. The newly crowned starter in Cleveland had a so-so debut against the Texans, but look for Crowell to return to the end zone at least once against a Falcons defense that has surrendered an NFL-worst 13 rushing scores to date.

Marques Colston, WR, Saints vs. Ravens. With rookie phenom Brandin Cooks out for a month or more, Colston and Kenny Stills will get more frequent looks in the Saints' passing game. The veteran has had a very disappointing season, but his arrow is pointing up with the vulnerable Ravens secondary heading to the Big Easy.

Anquan Boldin, WR, 49ers vs. Redskins. Boldin is the most-targeted receiver in San Francisco, so he can produce even when Colin Kaepernick struggles. They both will enjoy facing one of the league's most generous secondaries when the Redskins travel cross-country Sunday. In PPR leagues, Boldin's value is especially high this week.

More thumbs up (excluding the no-brainers): QBs Jay Cutler, Tony Romo, Matt Stafford, Eli Manning; RBs Alfred Blue, Darren Sproles, Justin Forsett, Denard Robinson, Tre Mason, Rashad Jennings; WRs Mohamed Sanu, Josh Gordon, T.Y. Hilton, Michael Crabtree, Mike Evans, Brandon LaFell, Jeremy Maclin, Jordan Matthews, Odell Beckham, Torrey Smith.

Roll 'em back

Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers vs. Rams. With just one TD pass, three interceptions and a pathetic 331 passing yards over his last two games, the bloom has come off Rivers' rose. Squaring off against a Rams pass defense that just knocked Peyton Manning off his stride, Rivers can't be trusted.

Jerick McKinnon, RB, Vikings vs. Packers. Green Bay has been holding quality RBs in check recently, while McKinnon (chest) is struggling against lesser opponents. Add newly acquired Ben Tate to the mix, and Matt Asiata's concussion, and this backfield is best avoided altogether on Sunday.

Fred Jackson, RB, Bills vs. Jets. Jackson claims that his team is at a disadvantage because they've been unable to practice due to the relentless snowfall in Buffalo. It's hard to argue with that. Add in his nagging groin injury, the likelihood of a committee approach with Anthony Dixon and Bryce Brown, and a quirky travel schedule and all bets are off for this running game.

Pierre Garcon, WR, Redskins at 49ers. Robert Griffin III is struggling again, and he appears to be losing the confidence of his teammates. Garcon has been virtually invisible since Griffin's return, and the road gets tougher in San Francisco. DeSean Jackson is tough to sit, but Garcon isn't worth the risk.

Percy Harvin, WR, Jets at Bills. There's no telling how this star-crossed game will unfold. But given the Bills' stingy secondary, and the still-developing chemistry between Harvin and Michael Vick, and the dual threat's best chance of producing will likely be as a runner.

More thumbs down: QBs Russell Wilson, Robert Griffin III, Josh McCown, Ryan Tannehill, Michael Vick, Drew Stanton; RBs Ryan Mathews, Mark Ingram, Jonas Gray, Lamar Miller, Reggie Bush, Joique Bell, Bishop Sankey, Charles Sims; WRs Malcom Floyd, Doug Baldwin, Eric Decker, Cordarrelle Patterson, Greg Jennings, DeAndre Hopkins, Wes Welker, Kenny Britt, Larry Fitzgerald.

TAKING A FLIER

Brian Hoyer, QB, Browns at Falcons. Could Josh Gordon have picked a better week to return, given the sorry state of the Atlanta secondary? Though Hoyer probably won't have Jordan Cameron (concussion) back just yet, he can alternate between both Gordon and Andrew Hawkins while picking apart one of the league's passing doormats.

DON'T BE THE BONEHEAD WHO...fails to check the weather reports prior to setting your starting lineups. Forget Buffalo...forecasted winds and precipitation could wreak havoc on passing and kicking games in Chicago, Foxborough and New York as well.

Ladd Biro was named Football Writer of the Year by the Fantasy Sports Writers Association for two consecutive years (2010, 2011). He was a finalist again in 2013. Follow all his advice daily at the Fantasy Fools blog (fantasy-fools.blogspot.com), on Facebook and via Twitter (@ladd_biro). 

The NFL is contemplating alternate venues for the Browns game in Buffalo Nov. 30 in the event Ralph Wilson Stadium is unplayable. The Bills and Jets have had this Sunday's game there moved to Detroit on Monday night.

BEREA, Ohio -- The NFL has already started thinking about where the Browns game at Buffalo will take place next Sunday in the event that Ralph Wilson Stadium is still unplayable because of the  more than 5 feet of snow dumped on the region.

As it is, the Bills-Jets game that was originally set for this Sunday in Buffalo has been moved to Detroit's Ford Field on Monday night.

The NFL and the Bills have begun thinking of alternate places for the Bills to house and train next week in the event their practice facility in Orchard Park is still buried.

With the Lions hosting Chicago on Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 27), it's conceivable the Browns and Bills could play there Nov. 30, if necessary.

So far, Ralph Wilson Stadium hasn't yet been ruled out, but even Bills President Russ Brandon said on a conference call that it will take a monumental effort to have it ready for the Browns game.

"That's a good question," Brandon said. "It's going to be a full-on effort by our stadium operations crew and everyone involved here to get that facility ready for next week. There's an enormous amount of snow to be removed."

Coach Mike Pettine, who coached in Buffalo last season, has received plenty of texts and photos from friends still living there. He said he hasn't yet heard anything about whether or not the Browns game will be moved.

"I do know they're facing potential flooding with rain and warmer temperatures this weekend,'' said Pettine. "When Monday comes, I'm sure we'll turn our eyes that direction and kind of see where we are with it."

John Carroll and Mount Union begin their Division III football playoff runs on Saturday.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – The term "unfinished business" has a different meaning at John Carroll this week as the Blue Streaks prepare to open the NCAA Division III playoffs.

JCU's game against Mount Union last week never really ended, and the Blue Streaks departed Mount Union Stadium with a 31-24 loss and a bitter taste.

"It's tough," John Carroll coach Tom Arth said. "You feel that you put yourself in position to win the game, and played well enough to win the game. It's tough when time runs out. Our players certainly will channel that into everything we do from this point on.''

The Mount Union game ended when officials ruled John Carroll quarterback Mark Myers illegally spiked the ball with two seconds remaining on the Mount Union 7, violating a rule that prevents spikes with fewer than three seconds left. The clock showed one second when the game was declared over.

John Carroll defensive lineman Frank Porter was so upset, he said after the game he wanted to play next week's game right then. Arth is hoping that feeling carries over into Saturday's first-round playoff game against visiting Centre College of Danville, Ky.

JCU is hoping to avoid repeating last year's playoff letdown when it followed another close loss to Mount Union with an upset loss in the first round of the playoffs.

Mount Union, meanwhile, opens the playoffs at home Saturday against Adrian.

John Carroll and Mount Union are in the same region, and if both win their first two games, they would play Dec. 6

Click here for the Division III bracket.

Here's a preview of their first-round playoff games:

No. 18 Centre College (10-0) at No. 6 John Carroll (9-1), noon

What: First-round Division III playoff game.

Last week: Centre College defeated Birmingham Southern, 45-15; John Carroll lost to Mount Union, 31-24.

Radio: Radio: WJCU, 88.7 FM.

Scouting John Carroll: JCU received an at-large berth, is making its fifth playoff appearance and has reached the postseason in consecutive years for the first time. The Blue Streaks have Division III's No. 3 scoring offense (52.1 points per game) and No. 4 scoring defense (9.8 ppg allowed). Quarterback Mark Myers leads Division III in passing efficiency (187.4) and holds the school record for touchdown passes (32). RB Tommy Michals is coming off consecutive 180-yard games. Sophomore Marshall Howell is the leading receiver (52 for 838 yards, 11 TDs). Aramis Greenwood has 44 catches for 806 yards and nine TDs, and has returned two kickoffs for TDs. Tight ends Brendan Carozzoni and Zach Strippy have combined for 11 TDs. Tackle Jack Corrigan will start his 30^th consecutive game. David Porter and Frank Pines have combined for 81 tackles and are coming off a big game against Mount Union. Linebacker Jimmy King leads with 62 tackles. All-American Kicker Kresimir Ivkovic is out for the season with a knee injury and Wes Keller last week made a 20-yard field goal in his first career attempt. He is 10-for-10 on extra points.

Scouting Centre: The Danville, Ky., school is making its second playoff appearance and first since 2011, when it lost to Mount Union in the second round, 30-10. It completed an unbeaten regular season for the first time since 1955 and won the Southern Athletic Association. It is outscoring opponents, 38.3-15.3. QB Heath Haden is a dual threat, passing for 1,865 yards and 21 TDs with four interceptions, and rushing for 565 yards and six TDs. Max Mazza (56 catches, 991 yards, 8 TDs) is coming off a 161-yard game. Nolan Coulter (1,135 yards, 12 TDs) leads a deep backfield. Amoh Kumengisa rushed for 115 yards and two TDs last week. An area of vulnerability could be its pass defense, which is allowing 217 points per game.

Next: The winner plays the winner between No. 8 Wheaton (10-0) and Benedictine (6-4) on Nov. 29 at a site to be determined.

Adrian (8-2) at No. 3 Mount Union (10-0), noon

What: First-round Division III playoff game.

Last week: Adrian defeated Trine, 40-7; Mount Union defeated John Carroll, 31-24.

Radio: WDPN, 1310 AM; WRMU, 91.1 FM

Scouting Mount Union: The Purple Raiders won their 26^th Ohio Athletic Conference title and wrapped up their ninth consecutive unbeaten regular season. Mount Union has won 11 national championships and advanced to the Stagg Bowl 17 times since 1993. It is 80-0 at home since 2005. Mount Union owns the No. 1 Division III scoring offense (60.8 points per game) and No. 1 defense (7.8). It also is No. 1 in total offense (597 yards per game) and defense (199.3). QB Kevin Burke, an All-American and reigning Gagliardi Trophy winner, has completed 65.1 percent of his passes for 2,689 yards and 28 TDs, and has eight rushing TDs. He is 39-1 as a starter. Wideouts Taurice Scott and Roman Namdar have a combined 94 catches and 20 TDs. Wideout Sherman Wilkinson, a 2013 playoff standout, is coming off an eight-catch, 134-yard game against JCU. Sophomore RB Bradley Mitchell is sixth on the school's all-time rushing list with 2,374 career yards. Safety Alex Kocheff this week was named a finalist for the Cliff Harris Award given to the nation's top small-college defensive player. He has 49 tackles (7.5 for loss) four sacks and three interceptions.

Scouting Adrian. The Bulldogs won their last three games by an average of 23 points to claim the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association title and earned their fourth playoff bid. They are 0-3 in the playoffs. The Michigan school averages 30.6 points and 394.9 yards per game. Senior QB Aaron Tenney has completed 46.7 percent of his passes for 1,704 yards with 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Nathan Hartline has 52 catches for 934 yards and 9 TDs. Freshman RB Emmanuel Stewart has 969 yards rushing and 11 TDs. Offensive lineman John Rock (6-2, 285) was first-team All-MIAA. Adrian safety Charles Fleck has 71 tackles and five interceptions. The Bulldogs have 30 sacks and freshman defensive lineman Damon Fuller is ninth in the nation with 11 sacks.

Next: The winner advances to play either No. 12 Wittenberg or No. 19 Washington & Jefferson on November 29 at a location to be announced.

The Cleveland Cavaliers megastar gifted the Ohio State basketball team with his latest shoe – The LeBron 12s.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – Christmas is still more than a month away, but LeBron James didn't want to wait any longer to become Santa Claus. 

The Cleveland Cavaliers megastar gifted the Ohio State basketball team with his latest shoe – The LeBron 12s. The shoes, which are customized in Ohio State's scarlet and gray, retail at Nike.com for $200. 

Ohio State basketball was the first school to be branded by James, and it has turned out to be quite the recruiting tool for Thad Matta and the Buckeyes. 

James has a locker in Ohio State's arena, and the Buckeyes are often the recipients of latest gear from Nike. 

Thanks to @kingjames and @nikebasketball for the Lebron 12's. @OhioStateHoops outfitted by the best in the world!! pic.twitter.com/RZcLZRuDDO

— Jeff Boals (@JeffBoals) November 21, 2014

Here's another look at the shoe: 

Early holiday gift from @KingJames and @nikebasketball #GoBucks pic.twitter.com/mBIL4nmFSg

— OSU BASKETBALL (@OhioStateHoops) November 21, 2014

Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer stands to make an extra $2 million this season if he plays 70% of the snaps, per a report.

BEREA, Ohio -- Browns quarterback Brian Hoyer is in line for a little Christmas bonus this season.

According ESPN NFL Insider Adam Caplan, Hoyer will earn an extra $2.05 million this year if he plays 70% of the snaps. His base salary this season is $1 million and he earned a roster bonus of $250,000.

Caplan noted that Hoyer, set to become a free agent this season, has played all but five snaps this season (684 out of 689), with Johnny Manziel taking the others.

He added that Hoyer can hit the escalator by playing all of the snaps Sunday in Atlanta and just a minimal amount the following week against the Bills, whether that game takes place at Ralph Wilson Stadium or elsewhere.

With a victory in Atlanta, Hoyer would improve to 10-4 as a Brown and 7-4 this season, with a shot at making the playoffs. His chances of that -- and his numbers -- figure to improve dramatically with the return of All-Pro receiver Josh Gordon, who  came off his 10-game suspension Monday and will play his first game of the season in Atlanta.

Currently, Hoyer is leading the NFL with an average of 14.04 yards per completion. He's also third in the league with 43 completions of 20-plus yards. He's ranked 20th in the NFL with an 86.0 rating.

The Browns have not negotiated with his agent since May.

It's early in the season, but the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to improve a talented roster that shown flashes of brilliance mixed with maddening inconsistency.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- It's early in the season, but the Cleveland Cavaliers are looking to improve a talented roster that shown flashes of brilliance mixed with maddening inconsistency. 

Reports surfaced last week that the Cavs were pursuing a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves, centered on swingman Corey Brewer.

According to ESPN's Marc Stein, the Houston Rockets could be in the driver's seat for that deal, if the Timberwolves are willing to move the veteran defender. Houston, like Cleveland, has a valuable trade exception, but it's the Cavs' indecisiveness that gives Houston the edge, according to Stein.

The Cavs are reportedly weighing whether they want to make a deal for a defender on the wing such as Brewer or the hard-to-come-by rim protector.

The trade exception, worth $5.3 million dollars, allows the Cavs to acquire a player that a team may be willing to move without the Cavs using any of their key players. They could use the trade exception along with a future draft pick or two to improve their struggling defense.

The Cavs are allowing 103.1 points (23^rd in the NBA), including the third-worst field goal percentage (48.3). It gets worse. The Cavs also have the worst defense inside five feet, allowing the opponent to convert nearly 66 percent of the time.

There are not a lot of high-caliber players on this list. If the Cavs want to pull off another blockbuster deal, similar to the one this off-season with Kevin Love, they will have to boost the offer, likely using Dion Waiters, another player or the first-round pick from Memphis as the centerpiece.

If the Cavs choose to go that route, Milwaukee's Larry Sanders or Indiana's Roy Hibbert could be in play. Neither player, known for defense, would come cheap and both have big contracts.

Here are five possible trade targets for the Cavs that have a salary around the worth of Cleveland's trade exception:

Timofey Mozgov, Denver Nuggets

7-1, 250 lbs., 28 years old

2014 stats: 24.4 minutes, 9.1 points, 50 percent field goals, 73 percent free throws, 7.1 rebounds, 1.3 blocks.

Salary: 2014/15 - $4.65 million; 2015/16 - $4.95 million (team option)

Persistence paid off for the Cavs once. After years of longing for Kevin Love, they finally found the right deal for Minnesota at the right time. The Cavs have been trying to pry Mozgov away from the Nuggets for months, with no luck.

He was once a key piece in the Carmelo Anthony trade and has started to blossom the last two seasons as his playing time has increased. He had 100 blocks last year and averaged career-highs in points (9.4) and rebounds (6.4). The 4-7 Nuggets are struggling and if that continues, Denver could be willing to move the soon-to-be free agent.

Mozgov played for Cavs coach David Blatt on the Russian National Team in 2012 and brings the size, rebounding and shot-blocking ability the Cavs covet. Blatt knows how talented he is.

Samuel Dalembert, New York Knicks

6-11, 255 lbs., 33

2014 stats: 17.1 minutes, 2.9 points, 40 percent field goals, 80 percent free throws, 4.6 rebounds, 1.46 blocks.

Salary: 2014/15 - $3.8 million; 2015/16 – FA

After missing the playoffs last year, the Knicks made changes. With new head coach Derek Fisher and a few off-season trades, New York looked like a possibility for one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. Instead, the Knicks have been one of the league's biggest disappointments, starting 3-10.

Dalembert is the kind of player who will likely be moved before the deadline. He's not only 33, but also a free agent following the year. He makes the most sense on a playoff contender even though he has started all 13 games for New York.

The veteran wouldn't bring back a big haul for New York, but a deal with the Cavs would give the Knicks salary relief and likely a future draft pick.

Ian Mahinmi, Indiana Pacers

6-11, 250 lbs., 28

2014 stats: 16.5 minutes, 3.8 points, 62 percent field goals, 50 percent free throws, 4.8 rebounds, 0.6 blocks.

Salary: 2014/15 - $4 million; 2015/16 - $4 million

There will be a difficult decision to make on Hibbert. The injury to Paul George has dashed the Pacers' championship hopes, making it possible Indiana listens to offers for one of the game's best defenders. He also has a $15.5 million player option following this season.

But what about Hibbert's backup?

Mahinmi is nothing special, but is an effective role player who will come at a cheaper price. He has also been in the playoffs before. From San Antonio to Dallas and now Indiana, Mahinmi has been groomed on the defensive end.

The defensive metrics are on his side and according to NBA.com stats, Mahinmi's defensive efficiency rating was even better than Hibbert's in 2013-14. 

Mahinmi is not a starter, but could fill a valuable role as a bench contributor on a playoff contender, which has been the case the last few years in Indiana. The Cavs need some help off the bench as they continue to play undersized Tristan Thompson inside with little success.

John Henson, Milwaukee Bucks

View full sizeMilwaukee Bucks center John Henson (31) defends Brooklyn Nets center Brook Lopez (11) during Wednesday's game at the Barclays Center. Kathy Willens, Associated Press 

6-11, 230 lbs., 23

2014 stats: 12.4 minutes, 4.4 points, 60 percent field goals, 62 percent free throws, 2.8 rebounds, 1.3 blocks.

Salary: 2014/15 - $1.9 million; 2015/16 - $2.9 million; 2016/17 - $4 million (qualifying offer)

Henson, the 14^th pick in 2012, has been buried behind the versatile Ersan Ilyasova and Larry Sanders, one of the game's talented young defenders.

Milwaukee has already made a big commitment to Sanders, giving him a four-year extension in the fall of 2013. The Bucks also owe Ilyasova nearly $16 million the next two years, with a team option for a third year.

Jabari Parker can play some power forward in a small-ball lineup and the Bucks have youngsters Giannis Antetokounmpo and Brandon Knight as part of the team's new core so it's fair to wonder whether Henson is still a part of Milwaukee's plans.

He isn't the strongest player, but Henson was one of 16 players to finish 2013-14 with at least 100 blocks and is second in blocks per 48 minutes this season. He has also shown flashes on offense. He scored double-digit points in 16 of the Bucks' final 22 games last spring.

It's tough to see Milwaukee giving up on him so early, but Henson could be a player that needs a change of scenery and a bigger opportunity to realize his full potential. He's not getting that opportunity with the Bucks.

Bismack Biyombo, Charlotte Hornets

6-9, 245 lbs., 22

2014 stats: 13.0 minutes, 4.4 points, 50 percent field goals, 66 percent free throws, 5.8 rebounds, 1.0 blocks.

Salary: 2014/15 – $4 million; 2015/16 - $5.4 million (qualifying offer)

The Hornets tried to trade Biyombo at the deadline last season, but couldn't find any takers. A former top 10 pick, Biyombo still possesses plenty of upside, but is very raw and has been a draft disappointment to this point.

Offensively challenged, Biyombo is a defensive specialist when he sees the court, which hasn't been often since Al Jefferson showed up in Charlotte. It's also not a good sign for Biyombo that the Hornets have used their last two high first-round picks on a pair of big men, Cody Zeller and Noah Vonleh.

Biyombo is top 20 in many of the rim protection metrics, according to SportVU, and would provide the presence inside the Cavs desperately need. Players had the worst field goal percentage (38.8) at the rim when defended by Biyombo.

The Cavaliers will need energy and execution to beat Toronto, which many are calling the best team in the Eastern Conference.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – Following the performance the Cavaliers provided in the nation's capital last night, they have to be eager for tonight's game to get a chance to right their wrongs.

But the Toronto Raptors are far from a pushover and they're very much looking forward to playing this game, too. Here are some things to watch at this evening's contest at The Q:

1. Who's in the rotation?

The rotation is in flux with no sign of a cure in sight. Mike Miller and Brendan Haywood have been afterthoughts, then suddenly they were thrown into Friday's game in the opening quarter. Dion Waiters is regressing while Joe Harris is probably being over utilized. It's still early and this feeling out process is normal. But it would be nice to settle in on some type of nucleus.

2. Love will have to adjust

Kevin Love will have to realize that he's not going to get the touches he's accustomed to getting. I know he knew that coming into the season, but it's another thing to actually accept it. Bigs are usually the first to suffer due their reliance on perimeter players getting them the ball in the right spots. In David Blatt's offense, he will be roaming outside more than he's used to in order to spread the floor. The sooner he accepts that, the sooner the Cavaliers can hit their stride.

3. Can they bounce back tonight?

Sure they can, but it won't be easy. Toronto played at home last night, sort of. They destroyed the Milwaukee Bucks, 124-83, so they're well rested. Some are calling the Raptors the best team in the Eastern Conference. The Cavaliers sure picked a bad time to struggle.

4. A jolt of energy

Cleveland has to come out ready to play. That game against Washington showed a disinterested bunch filled with a lot of bad body language. They reverted back to their old one-on-one ways, leaving behind an unselfish basketball system that got them to a high point. Toronto will force the issue in transition, so the Cavaliers will have to be energized. They can't just show up against this team.

Probable Starters

Toronto Raptors (10-2)

F Terrence Ross

F Amir Johnson

C Jonas Valanciunas

G DeMar DeRozan

G Kyle Lowry

Cleveland Cavaliers (5-6)

F Kevin Love

F LeBron James

C Anderson Varejao

G Shawn Marion

G Kyrie Irving