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In The Spotlight: Dolphins linebacker Cameron Wake

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Undrafted out of Penn State in 2005, Wake toiled in the Canadian Football League for two seasons before the Dolphins discovered him.

dolphins-wake-vert-ap.jpgView full size"Literally two years ago I'm sitting on the couch watching the games on Sunday," recalled Miami linebacker Cameron Wake, "and every game I'm watching and I'm going, 'you know what, I can do that. I'm just as big, as fast, as strong, or I played with him, or I played against him.'"

MIAMI, Fla. -- The Browns' offensive line might get a Wake-up call Sunday in Miami.

As in Cameron Wake, the lightning-quick pass-rusher for the Dolphins who leads the AFC with 10.5 sacks.

"The casual fan probably doesn't know who he is, but certainly all the players in the NFL know who he is, especially guys who try to block him," said Browns left tackle Joe Thomas. "He's definitely on everybody's radar screen right now because of how well he's playing. He's probably playing better than almost anybody getting to the quarterback right now. He's very impressive."

Most folks have never heard of Wake, because he was undrafted out of Penn State in 2005 and toiled in Canadian Football League for two seasons before the Dolphins discovered him in January of 2009.

"It's a crazy story I guess," Wake said on a conference call. "Literally two years ago I'm sitting on the couch watching the games on Sunday, and every game I'm watching and I'm going, 'you know what, I can do that. I'm just as big, as fast, as strong, or I played with him, or I played against him.'"

Wake (6-3, 250 lbs.) was signed by the Giants as an undrafted rookie in 2005, but never even made it to training camp, getting cut in June. He then tried a real job, but hated it.

"I had a 9-to-5," he said. "I was mortgage broker and a personal trainer. On my breaks, I was checking stats and stuff when I should've been making calls and crunching numbers. It just wasn't in my heart. Football was in my heart and I did everything I could to get back on that field and my first opportunity was in the CFL. I did everything I could to play my heart out and had a couple of good years up there."

Wake, who ran a 4.55 at the 2005 NFL combine, spent two years with British Columbia, recording 39 sacks and earning Defensive Player of the Year awards in 2007 and 2008. After 2008, the Rams, Saints, Bills, Vikings and Dolphins expressed interest, and he landed in Miami.

"It's been a really good marriage," said Dolphins coach Tony Sparano. "This guy is growing into a pretty good football player."

Wake started off with a bang, earning 5.5 sacks as a rookie last season. This season, the only NFL player with more is Green Bay's Clay Matthews with 11.5

"He's going to be a great challenge for us on both sides," said Thomas. "He's very fast, quick off the ball. He gets up field and makes guys turn their shoulders. He's also strong and uses good leverage. He'll make you think he's going around you, turn his shoulder and try to run you over. It's kind of surprising he fell through the cracks for a few years. I don't know how you don't look at a guy like that and just give him a shot for a year."

Quarterback Jake Delhomme is gearing up for him.

"When he's in their sub-package, he gets down in his sprinter's stance like he's running the 100-meter dash and he comes popping out of there."

Eric Mangini never heard of Wake before his CFL days. "But I know him now though," he said.

So will plenty of other folks if he realizes his boyhood dream of making the Pro Bowl.

"To be named an all-star in this league, I can't even explain the kind of honor that is," he said. "Literally two years ago I was sitting out of football and doing everything I possibly could to scratch and claw and chase that dream. I really think it would mean more to me than to people who haven't had that struggle."


Hickson, Graham (stomach virus) out for Cavs vs. Wolves: Mary Schmitt Boyer's pre-game blog

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Can the short-handed Cavaliers rebound with a strong effort against the Timberwolves?

hickson-drive-smith-vert-cc.jpgView full sizeJ.J. Hickson (21) and Joey Graham are both sitting out tonight's game against Minnesota with a stomach virus.

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. -- Notes and observations from the Cavs game against the Timberwolves at Target Center:

Cavs starters: F Jawad Williams, F Leon Powe, C Anderson Varejao, G Anthony Parker, G Mo Williams.

Wolves starters: F Corey Brewer, F Kevin Love, C Darko Milicic, G Wes Johnson, G Luke Ridnour.

Injuries: Joey Graham and J.J. Hickson (stomach virus) out for Cavs. Michael Beasley (sprained right ankle), Martell Webster (back), Anthony Tolliver (sprained right knee ligament) out for Wolves.

Inactives: Christian Eyenga, Graham, Hickson for Cavs. Jonny Flynn, Anthony Tolliver, Martell Webster for Wolves.

Officials: James Capers, Derrick Collins, Violet Palmer.

Three things to watch:

1. The Cavs have to win this game to get their season back on course.

2. How will the absence of Hickson and Graham affect the Cavs?

3. Can Cleveland take advantage of the fact that the short-handed Wolves are playing the second game of a back-to-back after Friday's loss at San Antonio, where they played well before falling?

Colt McCoy hasn't answered all questions, but Cleveland Browns' Mike Holmgren is content: NFL Insider

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Mike Holmgren would like to see Colt McCoy play sometime in December. But if he doesn't, he says at the very least McCoy has earned the right to compete for the starting quarterback job next year.

mccoy-horiz-steelers-jg.jpgView full sizeColt McCoy's strong showing in his five games as a Browns starting quarterback "does not preclude us from taking another quarterback in the next draft -- even if the decision is made that Colt's the future," says Browns president Mike Holmgren.

MIAMI, Fla. -- Can Colt McCoy make the throws that Jim Kelly made this time of year in Buffalo? Can he spiral through snow showers in a December game in Cincinnati that he has to win?

Can he pierce the unpredictable, unforgiving, frigid Lake Erie blasts at home with a game on the line in January?

With possibly three stronger-armed quarterbacks available in the April draft, the Browns have to be sure -- or surer than they are now -- about McCoy's ability to perform in these conditions.

But he might be laid up another two to four weeks with a high ankle sprain, Browns President Mike Holmgren admitted.

"I would like to see him in these conditions, first of all, but I don't believe we're going to play him unless he's 100 percent with his leg," Holmgren said. "But, absolutely, if you're going to play in Cleveland or Green Bay or Pittsburgh ... anyplace where weather is part of it late ... yeah, there are challenges there and you have to find out if you can do it.

"It's certainly a whole lot different than Austin, Texas [where McCoy played four years in college]."

Before you can ask, "Can McCoy be the one to take the Browns to the Super Bowl," there must be an answer to: "Does he have enough arm to win in Cleveland in December?"

"I kind of agree," Holmgren said. "I'd like to see him in weather games, but the reality is we might not be able to do that this year. But you know what? Honestly, I'm not particularly worried about that. I think he'll do just fine. It's not a huge concern with me."

This is a judgment that only a set of eyes trained from observing Joe Montana, Steve Young and Brett Favre up close can make. It's probably Holmgren's most critical decision as president.

Like everyone else, Holmgren saw the deep ball McCoy threw against the wind in Jacksonville. It was underthrown and should have been intercepted. So Holmgren was asked to explain his confidence in McCoy.

"As he gets older, he'll get stronger and his arm will get stronger," Holmgren said. "But I've seen him make throws -- now, there've been a couple where you go, 'OK, maybe not.' -- but most of the time he's delivered the ball quite well, so far."

We may be talking about only two or three bad-weather games a year. But they most certainly will be crucial ones whenever the Browns get really good.

"I think a quarterback that doesn't have a rocket for an arm -- and most guys don't, a lot of guys have great strength and no accuracy," Holmgren said. "I'd always go for accuracy."

But is he sure enough about McCoy to pass on trying to acquire one of the expected Big Three quarterbacks of the coming draft -- Andrew Luck of Stanford, Ryan Mallett of Arkansas and Jake Locker of Washington?

"It is a critical opportunity," Holmgren said. "I'm not going to paint ourselves in a corner on anything involving our draft or quarterbacks. But I was thinking maybe [McCoy] wouldn't play at all this year. So I think we're a little ahead of the game in the fact he was able to play against really good teams.

"Immediately, I learned a couple things about him, things I actually knew but he reaffirmed them. The game's not too big for him. He handled himself beautifully in those games. The judgment part of his game I thought was excellent. We had very few turnovers he was responsible for. That was encouraging to me.

"I don't think he's been asked to make all the throws yet, particularly in weather. But I think he's going to be OK. I really do."

Holmgren reiterated that he's said since April that drafting McCoy "does not preclude us from taking another quarterback in the next draft -- even if the decision is made that Colt's the future.

"I think what he's done ... before anyone anoints him ... what he has done has absolutely allowed him to compete for the starting position with whomever, at the very least. At the very least.

"Had he been able to stay healthy and had nine or 10 games under his belt, then it's maybe more of a slam dunk," Holmgren said.

Daniel Gibson keeps mum on phone chat with 'friend' LeBron: Cavaliers Insider

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Daniel Gibson and LeBron James attempted to clear the air in a phone conversation on Saturday.

gibson-lbj-horiz-jg.jpgView full sizeDays when Daniel Gibson and LeBron James could easily enjoy each other's company have faded, and the two spent some time on Saturday trying to resolve their relationship.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Daniel Gibson and LeBron James spoke on Saturday in an effort to mend a friendship strained by the Cavs' loss to the Heat on Thursday.

After James taunted the Cavaliers' bench during the game, Gibson was quoted on Friday as saying that their friendship had soured. He also said things were not as friendly as it appeared to outsiders.

Gibson admitted there was a conversation on Saturday.

"I'd rather not say exactly what it was about," he said before the Cavs played the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center. "It was more that we're both competitive people. We both want to win. That's what it's all about."

In Miami, James told reporters, "I talked to Daniel today and it is all good."

Asked if they were still friends, James said, "Yeah."

Asked if he was surprised by the mixed reactions he got from his ex-teammates, James said, "I didn't expect too much, I didn't ask for too much for any of my ex-teammates. It's a basketball game, I was going there to get a win. For the most part, everyone's reception was kind of cold."

Whole lotta Love: Cavs center Ryan Hollins has one great regret; he left UCLA a year before Minnesota forward Kevin Love arrived.

"That probably would have been a championship right there," Hollins said on Saturday.

The two played together last year in Minnesota.

"I know Kevin well," Hollins said of the Wolves forward and the league's leading rebounder (15.1 per game.) "Obviously, this is the best he's played in his career. I'm definitely happy for him. I'm not surprised, coming off that Team USA performance, the experience that he got and the preparation, the steps that he takes into the game really helped him out."

Added Cav guard Ramon Sessions, another former Timberwolf, on Love, "He's playing great basketball. He's a walking double-double."

Byron Scott did not disagree. "Love has been a beast," the coach said.

Sessions has gone from running Kurt Rambis' triangle offense to running Scott's Princeton system.

"This is definitely easier," he said. "The triangle was more pass and cut, feed the ball into the post off a lot of reads. Coach Scott's is an up-tempo offense with the point guard holding the ball most of the time and pushing the ball and coming off pick and rolls. This offense is a better fit for me, no question.

"It's totally different. It's like two different types of basketball. Coach Scott's is more freelance. Coach Rambis is more structured. It definitely takes time to adjust. To be honest, I'm still adjusting to it in a way."

The last word: From Scott, asked for his best story on Rambis from their days together with the Lakers -- "I don't have any good ones that are family friendly. Kurt was a character, let's put it that way. Loved him to death. He was a great teammate. Obviously we had a lot of success, lot of fun together. But he was unique in a lot of ways."

Cleveland State now a perfect 10 as Vikings rout Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 82-59

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Jeremy Montgomery scored a game-high 20 points, Norris Cole added 14 and Trevon Harmon 13 helping Cleveland State snap an 10-game road losing streak to the Panthers.

Joe Totoraitis

Special to The Plain Dealer

MILWAUKEE, Wis. -- Gary Waters can finally smile as the Cleveland State Vikings leave Wisconsin.

Jeremy Montgomery scored a game-high 20 points, Norris Cole added 14 and Trevon Harmon 13 helping CSU snap an 10-game road losing streak to Wisconsin-Milwaukee and extend its school-record winning streak to 10 with an 82-59 victory over the Panthers on Saturday night at the U.S. Cellular Arena.

Waters finally got his first victory in Milwaukee, which has eluded him for five years. Cleveland State sank a season-high 14 3-pointers and won in Milwaukee for the first time since a 109-105 victory on Jan. 29, 2000.

The Vikings (10-0, 2-0 Horizon) became the first team in the nation to hit double figures in wins, opening the season with consecutive road wins against two teams that have dominated them for years.

Cleveland State was a combined 1-19 on its last 10 trips to Milwaukee and Green Bay prior to Thursday's 83-75 win over Wisconsin-Green Bay.

Waters said the team' commitment to defense was the difference.

"Last year, we were playing with a lot of young kids, and they didn't understand the defensive philosophy," he said after his team finished a stretch of five games in 11 days. "We know that you win ballgames by playing defense. We said that we're going to come into these places and make them a defensive game."

The Vikings did just that. Their pressure defense limited the Panthers to shooting 29.6 percent from the floor while forcing 13 turnovers, including 10 in the first half.

"Cleveland State is 10-0 for a reason," Panthers head coach Rob Jeter said. "They were determined to make something happen. We were beaten by a better team."

Tony Meier's 11 points led the Panthers (4-5, 1-1), while the Vikings were a season-high 63.8 percent from the field.

"We can shoot the ball," Waters said after the team made 30 of 47 shots. "We've got guards that can shoot the ball. We just haven't done it consistently."

Looking for the open man is something else they did very well. Cole had a season-high of nine of the team' season-high 18 assists. He said that simply being part of a good team.

"You can't have selfish guys if you want to talk about being a championship team," Cole said. "Moving the ball, sharing the ball, that's what gets everybody going. That makes us a hard team to defend when we've got the ball moving like that."

The Vikings had the ball moving and dropping from the start. The Panthers got the tip, but their first shot missed and Cole scooped up the rebound. He darted up the court, passed to Aaron Pogue for two points and a lead they Vikings never lost.

Cleveland State led, 46-21, at the half as Montgomery had 12 points, Harmon eight and Cole and Charlie Woods each had seven.

In the second half, Cole, a senior, hit a 3-pointer for a 66-34 lead with 11:53 to play and the Panthers never got it under 21 points the rest of the way. Montgomery had a team season-high five 3-pointers. Woods finished with 10 points.

Joe Totoraitis is a freelance writer based in Milwaukee.

Is Peyton Hillis a true MVP candidate? Hey, Tony!

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Another trip through the dozens of questions sent to beat writer Tony Grossi.

Browns beat the Patriots 34-14View full sizePeyton Hillis has clearly been the Browns' MVP this season, but is he a legitimate candidate for league-wide honors? That's the proposal of one Browns' fan.

Hey, Tony: Let me be the first to throw Peyton Hillis in as a candidate for MVP. If the award is supposed to truly go to the guy that is the most valuable to his team, then Hillis fits that description. Take Hillis off this team and they are quite possibly 0-11 and aren't even in any game this season. Not saying he should win it, but he should be considered. You with me? -- Ryan Branford, Fort Bragg, N.C.

Hey, Ryan: Beyond any shadow of doubt, Hillis is the MVP of the Browns. But a league MVP has to come from a winning team. That's just the way it is. If the Browns had not blown fourth-quarter leads against Tampa Bay, Kansas City and Jacksonville, and their record was 7-4 instead of 4-7, I would think a Hillis for MVP campaign would have legs. As it is, all I can guarantee is he'll win the Browns Man of the Year award given by the Cleveland chapter of the Pro Football Writers of America.

Hey, Tony: The knock on Joe Haden was supposed to be a lack of elite cornerback speed. Having seen him throughout training camp and now for over half of the season, what is your take on that concern? -- Brendon Comer, Durham, N.C.

Hey, Brendon: He plays faster than he times. I've seen him catch up when beaten and make the play on the ball. The criticism of his speed was based on a slow 40 time at the NFL combine when he insisted on running when not fully healthy. Watch how fast he runs when he has the ball in his hands after an interception. Really good player who will get better.

Hey, Tony: You are on record as saying, "the Steelers are in decline." Did you mean this year, next year or farther down the road? In spite of where I live, I am a long-time Browns fan and can't stand Pittsburgh. I had hoped that for once you were right about something. -- Elmer Lemock, Erie, Pa.

Hey, Elmer: I don't know how far the Steelers will go this year but obviously they have exceeded my expectations. I've always been a great admirer of their organization. I felt the departure of owner Dan Rooney, the off-field problems of Ben Roethlisberger and issues on the offensive line would precipitate a decline. I was wrong. Kevin Colbert is one of the top five personnel men in the NFL. I also underestimated Mike Tomlin.

mangini-bucs-loss-jk.jpgView full sizeOne Browns fan believes all that Eric Mangini needs to succeed with the team is more time with the organization.

Hey, Tony: Why is it that nearly every talk show in this town has a "fire the coach" undercurrent? If the Browns fire Mangini, which I think would be a mistake, then that would be 4 (5 if you count Terry Robiskie) head coaches the Browns have had since 1999 vs. Pittsburgh, which has had three head coaches in its history. Mangini is the only coach here who appears to have built something that resembles physical football. -- Mike B, Dover, Ohio

Hey, Mike: The Steelers have had three head coaches in 40 years. Their history goes back to 1933. I once asked Steelers owner Dan Rooney his philosophy on coaches. He answered, "Find the right coach and stick with him." Finding the right coach has been the problem for the Browns.

Hey, Tony: I heard that while attending remedial English at the University of Michigan, Braylon Edwards was asked what came at the end of a sentence. Without hesitation, Edwards responded "Parole!" Any truth here? -- Joe Rossin, Columbus

Hey, Joe: Which comedy club in Columbus can we catch your routine?

Hey, Tony: Thanks for the added info on John Fox's relationship with Mike Holmgren a couple of weeks ago. I, even more than ever, believe he'll be the choice should Mangini blow it. Now for my question. What would the possibilities be of Gary Kubiak, Norv Turner or Brad Childress taking a step back and accepting an O.C. job in Cleveland should we offer and Mangini stays? -- Jimmy D., Elyria

Hey, Jimmy: None, none and slim. I've said before that if the Browns make a change at offensive coordinator, the next one would have some close affiliation with Mike Holmgren.

Hey, Tony: I think that Jake Delhomme has proven to be the mistake on the lake at quarterback, despite his impressive start to the Carolina game. Jake got a pass for his poor play in the second half of the Tampa Bay and Atlanta games because of his high ankle sprain. He has no excuse against the Panthers. What's the status of Seneca Wallace? Is he ready to play in Miami? -- D.A. Pimley, Centreville, Va.

Hey, D.A.: You're too hard on Delhomme. Wallace is good enough to play, but Delhomme was the starter before both of them got hurt.

Hey, Tony: How on earth does Art Modell keep making it to the short list for Hall of Fame consideration? Aside from the gross mismanagement of his finances, coordinating what was arguably an illegal franchise move to Baltimore, allegations of racial bias in player contract negotiations (see Wooten, John; Kelly, Leroy; and others), alienating his stadium tenant and business partner (Cleveland Indians), firing arguably the greatest NFL coach in history (Paul Brown), and his incredible lack of foresight to join the Gateway project, what on earth has Modell accomplished as an owner to even warrant consideration for the Hall, let alone a nomination? It's fair to say that Modell's NFL bio reads like a damning list of failures and shortcomings. -- Tim, Winter Haven, Fla.

Hey, Tim: Modell has a small base of support among the 44 voters for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He has enough support to reach the semifinal round of 25. But to get elected, he needs 80 percent of the total vote, or 35 votes of the 44 total. I don't believe he has nearly that many votes.

Hey, Tony: Regarding the rookie salary cap, any idea if the commissioner is looking at giving a larger pay scale to a player who finishes college? I heard Terrelle Pryor is staying for his senior year, which in the long run would be better for him. -- Todd Davis, Creston, Ohio

Hey, Todd: I don't believe the rookie wage scale envisioned by the NFL has anything to do with whether a player finishes his college eligibility. It is based on paying the player a prescribed amount based on the number in the round in which he is taken.

Hey, Tony: What exactly does Gil Haskell do to earn a salary from the Browns? I thought he was brought in to help guide Daboll, but it is hard to see that guidance taking shape on game day each week. Secondly, is Mangini on a serious diet, or is he ill? He appears to be noticeably thinner by the week. -- Sean Samuels, Chandler, Ariz.

Hey, Sean: Haskell is Mike Holmgren's top football aide. He does offer guidance to Daboll, but Holmgren and Haskell are sensitive to not forcing anything on Mangini or his staff. As for Mangini's weight loss, at last count he had dropped about 60 pounds. He's done it by eating better and exercise.

Hey, Tony: I would like to submit this info for consideration of you and Browns fans everywhere. Chuck Noll: Losing records in his first three seasons. Jimmy Johnson: Losing records in his first two seasons, and a playoff loss to the Lions in his third (Yes, the Lions!). Bill Walsh: Losing records his first two seasons along with another losing season after he won his first Super Bowl. And finally, Tom Landry: Losing records in his first five seasons. Is Eric Mangini one of these guys?

Do you really want to see the Browns fire another guy and see him turn another downtrodden team into a Super Bowl dynasty (a la the pre-2001 Patriots)? So let's sit back, let the team have a couple more drafts, and see what he can do with it. -- Brian Carlin, Conshohocken, Pa.

Hey, Brian: I would submit that you cite examples from a different era of the NFL. Now we are seeing teams turned around in three years, two years, even one year, of smart player acquisitions. The final call on Mangini will be made by Mike Holmgren.

Hey, Tony: Let's say a back or receiver is grabbed by the face mask. A flag is thrown, but the ball is fumbled. It appears he fumbled because of the foul. What happens if want to challenge the call? -- Karen Bencin, Cleveland

Hey, Karen: Not every play in a game is allowed to be reviewed by instant replay. Your play is not, so whatever the officials rule on the field would stand.

mangini-ryan-horiz-jg.jpgView full sizeDo Eric Mangini and Rob Ryan occasionally disagree on play calls on the Browns' sideline? Absolutely, says Tony Grossi. Does that mean there's a rift between them? Absolutely not.

Hey, Tony: After the Panthers game, Eric Mangini commented that he should have over-ridden the defensive play call by Rex Ryan and covered the outside better. This is the first time I can recall Mangini commenting anything about being involved in the play calling, offensive or defensive. How often Mangini does change plays during the game? -- Rich Smith, Columbus

Hey, Rich: I'm sure it happens all the time. No coach is going to let a play-call get in that he disagrees with. That's why head coaches wear a headset, to monitor all the plays and change them when they see fit.

Hey, Tony: I believe I have noticed on occasion that Mangini is not as happy (through his body language) with his defensive coordinator as the fans and the media. Would you agree? -- Rusty Stoner, Columbus

Hey, Rusty: I think Mangini and Ryan are on the same page. It's not uncommon for a head coach to disagree with a play-call of his coordinator.

Hey, Tony: I have a theory that Brian Daboll would make a good defensive coordinator. His thought processes are a better fit on the other side of the scrimmage line. -- Randall R., Winston-Salem, N.C.

Hey, Randall: Daboll began his NFL career as a defensive coach.

Hey, Tony: Do you think that the offense that we saw against Carolina -- balance between running and passing, spreading the ball around and getting Robiskie involved -- was the intended offense all along but was sidetracked by injuries because Seneca Wallace can not run such an offense and because the Browns did not want to ask so much of McCoy so soon? -- Paul Thiel, Crescent Springs, Ky.

Hey, Paul: I think you have analyzed it very well.

Hey, Tony: In your podcast, you said Holmgren will "do the right thing" at the end of the season. Is that just expressing confidence in Holmgren, or do you feel the firing of Mangini is inevitable? -- Scott W, Erie, Pa.

Hey, Scott: When Holmgren was hired as president, much was made of the "cultural differences" between him and Mangini. Those differences were the reason I felt Mangini would not be retained. A year later, I believe those differences have been accentuated rather than eliminated. I feel a change is more likely than not. But the reason I said Holmgren will do the right thing is because I don't believe he would make the decision without sincere evaluation and thought.

Hey, Tony: I am bewildered by the number of defensive backs getting called for interference by not looking back for the ball. When we played we were always told to shout "BALL" when the QB released. Do the Browns do this? Or maybe they couldn't hear it anyway in these big stadiums. -- William Smith, Willoughby Hills

Hey, William: It's impossible to be heard shouting "ball" in an NFL stadium. That said, DBs shouldn't have to be told to look for the ball.

Hey, Tony: With Art Modell making his way in for the seventh time in the semifinals for HOF voting, is there a limit on how many times someone can be nominated (and rejected)? Surely at one point in time such an individual is just holding up someone else from getting on the ballot? Do you think he will ever make it in? -- T. Walhekar, Reading, United Kingdom

Hey, T.: Candidates get an automatic ticket to next season's ballot when they reach the semifinal round (of 25). So as long as Modell keeps getting the votes to reach the round of 25, he'll keep appearing on the ballot.

Hey, Tony: What implications would a possible player strike have on season ticket holders? To maintain a PSL, could it be possible the Browns would require purchase of tickets if replacement players are on the field? -- Dan Morganti, Akron

Hey, Dan: First, there won't be a strike. If there is a stoppage, it will be as a result of the owners locking out the players in the absence of a collective bargaining agreement. The NFL will refund all general admission tickets in the event of canceled games. Each team will institute its own policy on PSLs, stadium suites and club seats.

Hey, Tony: Peyton Hillis is having a tremendous season. Why did the Broncos give up on him and do you think this breakout performance of his could be just a one-hit wonder? -- Robert Driscoll, Parma

Hey, Robert: Broncos coach Josh McDaniels determined Hillis was not the type of back he wanted. McDaniels drafted Knowshon Moreno and signed Correl Buckhalter in free agency. The trade of Hillis is all on him. As for being a one-hit wonder, only time will tell. He's been sensational this year.

asantejk.jpgView full sizeLarry Asante, we hardly knew ye.

Hey, Tony: I remember a lot of hype about Larry Asante when we drafted him. Now he is gone. We don't have lots of depth in the secondary, so this seems like quite a blow. Were the Browns no longer interested in him? Are teams free to sign players from any other team's practice squad at any time? -- Erol Altug, Stony Brook, N.Y.

Hey, Erol: I don't remember a lot of hype about Asante. He wasn't good enough to make their regular roster and spent most of the year on their practice squad. This week he was signed by Tampa Bay after the Bucs waived Sabby Piscitelli, whom the Browns eventually claimed. There is no compensation for losing a player on the practice squad. When a team signs another team's practice squad player, it must keep him on its regular roster for a minimum of three weeks. It happens all the time.

Hey, Tony: It seems like this might be Phil Dawson's last season as a Brown. Not good. Why don't the Browns carry a second kicker that can boom kickoffs? Why don't Browns kickers practice at the stadium to get game-like preparation? Billy Cundiff was OK with us and has been solid with Baltimore. -- Patrick Yarnevic, Lakewood

Hey, Patrick: There's no need for a second kicker, as Dawson is capable of hitting kickoffs deep enough. Cleveland Browns Stadium is one of the toughest venues to kick in. Practicing there doesn't make a lot of difference because the weather conditions change daily. Cundiff is having an amazing season for Baltimore. He must be on steroids or something (just kidding).

-- Tony

Breaking down the likely BCS bowl matchups

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With Auburn and Oregon now certain to meet in Arizona, the BCS bowls were clarified Saturday.

newton-leap-usc-sectitle-ap.jpgView full sizeCameron Newton was again the best player on the field -- or above it -- as he hurdled South Carolina's Akeem Auguste in the second half of the Tigers' SEC rout of the Gamecocks.

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- With Auburn and Oregon now certain to meet in Arizona, the BCS bowls were clarified Saturday. Here's a look at what should be announced on Sunday.

BCS National Championship, Glendale, Ariz., Jan. 10

Auburn (SEC champ) vs. Oregon (Pac-10 champ)

It's the No. 1 (Oregon) vs. No. 7 (Auburn) scoring offenses in the nation, averaging a combined 92 points per game. There's little debate that these two undefeated teams deserve their spots, with No. 3 TCU (12-0) making the only potential argument. The 12-0 Ducks opened as a 3-point favorite over 13-0 Auburn after both teams won Saturday, but the line quickly dropped to a 1-point edge for Oregon.

This matchup also features the players who should finish in the top two in the Heisman race next Saturday -- Auburn quarterback Cameron Newton, the expected winner, and Oregon running back LaMichael James.

Rose Bowl, Jan. 1

Wisconsin (Big Ten champ) vs. TCU (at-large)

By a one-time BCS rule, the Rose Bowl has to take TCU to replace Pac-10 champ Oregon. It will be TCU's second BCS bowl and first against a major conference opponent -- TCU lost to Boise State, 17-10, in the Fiesta Bowl last season.

TCU has the No. 3 rush defense in the nation, while 11-1 Wisconsin features the No. 12 rushing offense. The Badgers shared the Big Ten title with Ohio State and Michigan State, but get the Rose spot because they have the highest BCS rating.

Fiesta Bowl, Jan. 1

Oklahoma (Big 12 champ) vs. Stanford (at-large)

Since Stanford is ranked in the top four of the BCS standings, the Cardinal must receive an at-large bid. At 11-1 with a loss only to Oregon, Stanford could be chosen by the Orange Bowl, which picks ahead of the Fiesta, but if the Orange Bowl takes the Big East champ instead, this works out geographically for a fan base that isn't as large as some teams in the BCS mix.

Orange Bowl, Jan. 3

Virginia Tech (ACC champ) vs. Connecticut (Big East champ)

Locked into the ACC champ, the Orange Bowl could take Stanford. The Huskies, who opened the season with a loss to Michigan, won the Big East at 8-4 overall. The Hokies are on an 11-game winning streak after starting the season with losses to Boise State and James Madison.

Sugar Bowl, Jan. 4

Arkansas (At-large) vs. Ohio State (at-large)

The Sugar picks a team to replace Auburn, and also has the first at-large pick after that and should jump on the Buckeyes. The only thing that could keep 11-1 Ohio State from this game is if the Sugar Bowl shocks everyone by taking 11-1 Michigan State, which has never played in a BCS game. This would be Ohio State's ninth BCS game in 13 years under this system, the most of any team in the country.

Should Cleveland Cavaliers focus more behind the arc? Hey, Mary!

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Browsing through this week's mailbag from Cavaliers fans.

parker-drive-vert-kings-ap.jpgView full sizeWith the Cavaliers using an undersized lineup most nights, at least one fan wonders why Anthony Parker (18) and the other guards don't utilize the 3-pointer more often.

Hey, Mary: I just wondered why the Cavs don't attempt more 3-pointers. Daniel Gibson and Anthony Parker are among the top five active players in term of career 3-point percentage, so why do the Cavs not try to shoot more threes? Also, I really think Byron Scott needs to play J.J. Hickson more minutes. I know J.J. has pouted a little bit, but the Cavs look atrocious on offense since his playing time has decreased. -- Benjamin Martell, Northfield

Hey, Benjamin: The Cavs actually are exactly in the middle of the pack in the NBA as far as 3-point attempts (17.3) and makes (6.1) per game -- ranked 15th in both categories as of Friday, when they ranked 19th in 3-point percentage at .345. In general, guys who can make them -- like Mo Williams, Daniel Gibson and Anthony Parker -- take them, especially in this offense. I'm OK with someone like Ramon Sessions, who is not comfortable taking them, refraining from doing so. As for Hickson, he's really the one who determines his playing time. Scott would love to keep him on the floor but can't if his focus and effort wane. It's a problem neither coach nor player has been able to correct yet.

Hey, Mary: The Cavaliers' starting shooting guard, who has played more minutes than anyone else on the team, is making only 32 percent of his two-point shot attempts. He's also getting to the foul line less than twice per game. What can he do to improve on this? Or is he simply too old to succeed in a fast-paced, constant-motion offense? -- Matthew Borthwick, Hillsboro, Ore.

Hey, Matthew: It's not so much age. Driving to the basket and drawing fouls has never been Anthony Parker's style. The Princeton offense is an equal opportunity offense, and if the Cavs were running it better, Parker would be getting more and better open shots. That being said, he has to make them. You're right about that.

Hey, Mary: With the Heat not coming together as a team and having some serious struggles against top-flight teams, I imagine No. 23 is having second thoughts. I don't think he would admit it at this point, but do you see any scenario possible that he returns to Cleveland? -- Carl Sunkowski, Mentor

Hey, Carl: After the reception he got on Thursday night, I don't see James returning to play for the Cavs -- and certainly not as long as Dan Gilbert remains the owner.

Hey, Mary: Why haven't the Cavs rookies been sent to the D-League yet? Wouldn't that help them develop if they are getting in-game playing time instead of just practicing? -- Tony, Richmond Heights

Hey, Tony: The Cavs have sent Christian Eyenga to Erie, but with Mo Williams' injuries and their lack of height, right now, the Cavs need Manny Harris and Samardo Samuels at practice.

Hey, Mary: Read the article on fans reactions around the league to LeBron's move to Miami. Besides now being booed, has his move effected his endorsements, jersey sales, etc.? Besides his Nike commercial, I haven't seen much of him recently. -- Skip Springer, Harvey, La.

Hey, Skip: It's too early to tell. Although it seems as if everyone in Miami owns a No. 6 jersey, the league sales figures aren't available yet. If the Heat wins, all will be forgiven. That's how it works in sports and endorsements.

Hey, Mary: When the Cavs traded LeBron to the Miami Heat, why didn't they attempt to get Michael Beasley? We get about three points a game from our small forward position and Super Cool Bease would be just what we need. -- Nick Diemert, Naples, Fla.

Hey, Nick: The Cavs aren't interested in Beasley. Not every good player is a good fit on every team. Plus, Miami and Minnesota had a deal pending before James announced The Decision.

Hey, Mary: Why no interest in Terrence Williams? The Cavs are in desperate need of a young productive small forward. -- Derek Vinkovich, Cleveland

Hey, Derek: See above answer on Beasley. Not every good player is a good fit on every team. Plus, Williams already has had issues with tardiness in New Jersey and was sent to the D-League.

Hey, Mary: What exactly is the trade exception the Cavs received from the Heat? And what exactly could they use it for and get in return? -- Tim Lukianowicz, Enid, Okla.

Hey, Tim: The trade exception is $14.5 million, which can be used all at once or in pieces. The exception, which expires in early July, could allow the Cavs to acquire a player making up to $14.5 million this season without trading anything back, or it could be used to make up any difference in salaries between the player(s) they're acquiring and the player(s) they're trading.

Whereas General Manager Chris Grant has been in a wait-and-see mode to this point, trying to get a feel for what kind of team he has, expect the phone calls to increase after the Cavs' dreadful showing against the Heat.

Hey, Mary: Hickson, Eyenga, Harris, Samuels are all aged 21 or 22, Gibson, Sessions 24, Hollins 26, and leaders Mo and Andy are 28. Let's go with that. Bribe Jamison away with Quicken money. Graham/Moon had six points and seven fouls against Miami. Dump them, Powe, Williams, the salary exception, the Heat first-rounders, and try to pick up two first-round choices and one free agent. Now, with Scott coaching, you have a team to build into a contender. -- Bric

Hey, Bric: As Paul Hoynes might say, this makes my head hurt.

-- Mary


Maybe the Cavaliers thought a hug was physical defense: Bud Shaw's Sunday Sports Spin

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Next up for the Cavs: winning the city's lost affection after a night that should be remembered as The Group Hug, Bud Shaw writes in his Sunday Spin.

happy-lebron-wade-vert-jg.jpgView full sizeLeBron James and Dwyane Wade were the happiest of tourists on Thursday, which will haunt the Cavaliers for a while, says Bud Shaw.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Another weekend turn through the Sports Spin.

They at least fought the urge to give him a chair massage during timeouts.

The Drive. The Fumble. The Shot. The Move. The Decision.

And now this ... The Group Hug.

Let's be clear. The modest early-season stakes attached to Cavs-Heat preclude it from a serious place on the list of all-time Cleveland sports stomach punches. But for pure emotional letdown? You bet it belongs.

That will no doubt come as a surprise to many Cavaliers. They didn't get it Thursday. And don't be fooled. No matter what they're saying now, they still don't.

Boobie Gibson says if only we could've heard his conversation with LeBron James during the game we'd know there was nothing friendly about it.

Do share. Leave out the expletives and tell us the rest. Because unless people hear differently, unless he's really a basketball hit man who disarms opponents with his killer smile, Boobie is Derek Anderson smiling during a lopsided loss and then blaming the media for asking what was so funny.

It would be equally instructive to hear from Anderson Varejao, who threw himself into James' arms before the tipoff. People went to see an intensely competitive basketball game. And a Times Square VJ-Day Day embrace broke out. Nice.

The really scary thought is the Cavs believe they did offer resistance to James. Gibson says his words jeopardized his friendship with James. Wow.

As much as Varejao stealing James' headband? You hope Varejao wasn't clowning, right? How bad would that be? Clowning while getting your butt kicked sideways.

But think of the alternative. That's Varejao's way of fighting back and trying to throw James off his game? Stealing a headband and keeping it?

Good God.

I saw this movie when it was called "Mean Girls."

Group Hug, Part II...

lebron-jawad-collide-jg.jpgView full sizeJawad Williams did have a brief physical encounter with James on Thursday night, although there's no truth to the rumor that the Cavaliers sent a get-well basket of fruit and flowers to the Miami locker room at halftime, says Bud Shaw.

In case the Cavaliers need more help understanding the city's reaction, Spin is only too glad to belabor the point.

Look, the best thing the Cavs had going for them Thursday was the emotions of their fan base. The only thing they couldn't do if they wanted to win the game was let James feel comfortable.

Instead, they wasted the competitive fire of their fans, showed none of their own, and let James own the place. For James to feel any more comfortable as he stood in front of the Cavs bench talking, Jawad Williams would've had to run up to the club level and fetch him a Chardonnay and some tuna tartare.

The Cavs swear it wasn't as friendly as it looked. Really?

Where'd they draw the line?

No tongues?

SPINOFFS

I like the Browns to beat Miami Sunday ... as long as Shaun Rogers and Josh Cribbs don't forget to take their Cavs' jerseys off...

Give Gordon Gee credit for apologizing for comments made in which he dismissed Boise State and TCU as title game worthy even if they finished the regular season undefeated. Said Gee, "What do I know about college football? I look like Orville Redenbacher. I have no business talking about college football..."

For different reasons, I'm done talking about the Cavs-Heat...

Except to say, old-school Byron Scott should've told James to get away from his bench players...

And that after Thursday the Cavs better get ready to hear some laughs if they flash the slogan "All for one and one for all" on the scoreboard during pre-game introductions. ... Now, I'm done.

Cincinnati's Bearcat mascot was cited for disorderly conduct during Saturday's Pittsburgh game. OU's Rufus Bobcat is considering suing for copyright infringement...

If Auburn quarterback Cam Newton is eligible, according to the NCAA, even though his father shopped him around, well, that's a loophole that makes the Michigan defense look like a lock-down fortress...

Apparently his Celine Dion collection is still in West Virginia or he would've left them with the image of a head coach leaning into the breeze on the deck of the Titanic.

Michigan head coach Rich Rodriguez told a banquet audience that he has found solace in the lyrics of the Josh Groban song "You Raise Me Up."

Rodriguez and team members held hands while the song played over ballroom speakers.

According to the report, Michigan athletic director Dave Brandon said he would wait until the conclusion of the team's bowl game before evaluating the football program.

Didn't he mean the conclusion of the song?

Our "What Could Go Wrong" Winner of the Week

Qatar, the tiny Gulf nation of 1.6 million, outbid the U.S. in landing the 2022 soccer World Cup. Aside from the volatile political climate of the region, Qatar faces other serious challenges.

Like what amounts to having to air condition the entire country. Temperatures soar to 118 degrees during the summer.

"Thank you for believing in change," Qatar's Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, said in Zurich.Because you'll be changing your shirt, socks and underwear every three minutes.

HE SAID WHAT?

"We risk ourselves out there on the field each and every day also. When soldiers come home from Iraq you don't boo them. I look at it the same way. I take my job seriously." – Giants safety Antrel Rolle, objecting to New York fans booing for a lackluster performance against Jacksonville Sunday.

Rolle apologized later the same day, calling his words "inappropriate."

My guess is he meant to say Afghanistan, too.

YOU SAID IT

(The Slightly Expanded Sunday Edition)

"Bud:

"Who gave the Cavs' pep talk before the Miami game, Luke Witte or Brad Daugherty?" -- Jim H.

Wrong Rim Ricky Davis.

"Bud:

"Exactly at what age are athletes not young and prone to mistakes?" -- Vicki T

Brett Favre is 41, has thrown 17 interceptions and stands accused of sending pics of his private parts. So, 42?

"Bud:

"Do you think LeBron would have made The Decision if he had known the Heat would only be in Cleveland once while Snow Days was going on?" -- Dan Coughlin

After hearing him mention "the greatness of myself" Thursday at The Q, I believe he'd say he does not regret any decision he ever made, including creating the heavens and the earth.

"Bud:

"Were Nashville Predators coach Barry Trotz and actor Edward G. Robinson separated at birth?" -- Jeff Heldt, Westlake

I thought you were going to say Boobie Gibson and Derek Anderson. But that would be separated at mirth.

"Bud:

"Do you think when Michigan lets Rich Rodriguez go he can survive on his income from playing Kurt's father on 'Glee?'" -- Patrick McGinty, Bay Village

If you're a first-time winner, you receive a T-shirt from the Mental Floss collection.

"Bud:

"Was that an NBA game at the Q Thursday or some long-legged rerun of 'The Love Boat?'" -- Jim D., Richmond Heights

Repeat winners receive a stomach distress bag.

"Bud:

"Is it true there is a new Ohio lottery game out called 'The Jake?" You pick 6 numbers and if any of them are drawn you owe $7." -- John M. Ploenes

Or a shipment of the hot new product "Jake Delhomme's Whiplash Balm."

Byron Scott fuming after Cleveland Cavaliers are overwhelmed by lowly Minnesota, 129-95

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This game will haunt the Cavs much, much longer than being done in by a red-hot LeBron James and the Heat.

powe-love-minny-vert-ap.jpgView full sizeThe Cavaliers' Leon Powe is clearly on the wrong end of this battle for a loose ball with Minnesota's Kevin Love during the first half of Saturday's game in Minneapolis.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Those who thought Cavaliers coach Byron Scott was not upset enough after Thursday's devastating loss to Miami should have seen him Saturday.

His rage was evident after the Cavs sank to a new low with a 129-95 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Target Center.

Minnesota had won four games coming in, was missing its leading scorer in Michael Beasley with a sprained ankle. But despite playing Friday night at San Antonio, the Wolves led the Cavs by 40 points at one point.

"We played like the word that starts with an s and ends with a t," Scott said. "It's only four letters. That's the bottom line. On both ends of the floor, that's how we played."

While Scott was fuming, veteran Antawn Jamison was almost dumbfounded.

"To me we're playing like the worst basketball team in the NBA right now," he said after dressing slowly and trying to find wrap his head around what's going on after three straight blowout losses to Boston, Miami and Minnesota.

"I don't know what to tell you, really. To have the two games that we had previous to tonight and for them to have a game last night and for us to know the importance of this game and this three-game span before we get back home ... I can't put into words what took place or where we're at right now.

"I don't know. It's the first time in a while I've been at a loss for words."

This game will haunt the Cavs much, much longer than being done in by a red-hot LeBron James and the Heat. This was inexcusable, even with starters J.J. Hickson and Joey Graham out with stomach viruses. The offense was unrecognizable and the defense was, well, indefensible.

Minnesota scored season highs in almost every category: points, points in a half (73) and points in a quarter (37 in the first). The Wolves also registered season highs in field-goal shooting (59.3 percent) and 3-point shooting (69.2 percent) while setting franchise records for 3-pointers made in a game (18) and a first half (11).

It was the sort of shooting performance you think cannot continue. Except it did. For 48 minutes.

"We better figure out real quick how we need to play," Scott said. "Defensively we've been playing like crap for the last three or four games."

Gallery previewKevin Love, the league's leading rebounder, has been a monster all season, and he was all that and more on Saturday. By halftime, he had 20 points and 13 rebounds -- matching the Cavaliers' rebounding total. He finished with 28 points and 19 rebounds as the Wolves improved to 5-15 and snapped a nine-game losing streak to Cleveland.

Rookie Wesley Johnson added a career-high 20 by making 8 of 9 field goals, including 3 of 4 3-pointers.

Not that it mattered, but Ramon Sessions had 18 points and Jamison 17 for the Cavs, who dropped to 7-12 with their fifth straight loss on the road.

But scoring was the least of Jamison's concerns on Saturday.

"I can't tell you the last time we played well on both ends of the floor," he said. "I think it's time to look in the mirror. We're just playing bad basketball. It's not who we're playing, it's us, and it's going to get out of hand if we don't find a way to solve the problem and start playing the right way."

Scott agreed.

"The positive thing about this road trip is we still have two games left, he said, referring to Sunday's game at Detroit and Tuesday at Philadelphia. "Winning two out of three would make it a good trip. We still have that goal in mind. But those guys better get their heads out of their you-know-whats and start playing basketball, start competing."

Will Ohio State's defense be Sugar sweet in New Orleans? Hey, Doug!

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With the Buckeyes expected to be Sugar Bowl-bound to face Arkansas, beat writer Doug Lesmerises answers some New Orleans-based questions.

mallett-ark-missst-sq-ap.jpgView full sizeThe Buckeyes will hope to have a healthier secondary in time to try to defend Arkansas' talented QB Ryan Mallett, if the Sugar Bowl pairs Ohio State with the Razorbacks.

The Heys have gone to Twitter. You can continue to send Doug Lesmerises Hey Doug questions, but now you can also follow him on Twitter and ask questions to @PDBuckeyes. Questions were taken assuming an Ohio State-Arkansas matchup in the Sugar Bowl.

@M_Farrell21: Playing a pass-happy Arkansas offense, how crucial is it to have Christian Bryant back for this game?

The freshman defensive back, who was playing the star position in the nickel defense once Tyler Moeller was lost for the season, should return for the bowl after having surgery for a foot infection after the Wisconsin game.

But the Buckeyes could stay with what they did a lot in November, which was using three true cornerbacks when they went to their nickel, and having Travis Howard in the game with Chimdi Chekwa and Devon Torrence. That worked well, but if Bryant is ready, he gives the defense more options against the pass.

@mattb625 If Ohio State wins the Sugar Bowl, can the Buckeyes get rid of the stigma that they cannot keep up with the SEC speed?

The number that OSU fans will hear ad nauseum until the Sugar Bowl is Ohio State's 0-9 record in bowl games against SEC teams. It's fair to wonder if a win here would shake that. Arkansas is a good team, but it's not quite Florida or LSU or Alabama or Auburn with Cam Newton.

So this one win alone wouldn't be enough, if my opinion, to end the Ohio State-SEC talk.

@mjk2387: Who do you think will be favored?

Arkansas is on a six-game winning streak and has four wins over teams in the latest BCS top 25 -- Texas A&M, South Carolina, Mississippi State and LSU. Ohio State doesn't have any. The guess is that the game is between a pick 'em and Arkansas as a 3-point favorite.

-- Doug

Akron men's soccer team ties home winning-streak record: National Quarterfinals Notebook

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Akron matches the national record of going unbeaten in 39 straight home matches.

akron men's soccer.JPGView full sizeAkron head coach Caleb Porter hugs Zarek Valentin after their 3-2 penalty-kick win over Cal on Saturday in Akron.

AKRON, Ohio — It is no surprise that an Akron men's soccer team that is 43-2-3 over the past two seasons continues to match or set records.

The Zips' 3-2 penalty-kick win (after 3-3 regulation) over California in Saturday's Division I national quarterfinal match is counted, by NCAA rules, as a tie in their win-loss record.

That curious rule, though, doesn't stop Akron from matching the national record of going unbeaten in 39 straight home matches, set by Tulsa from 1988 to '92. Akron is 37-0-2 in a stretch of home contests that began during the 2008 season.

With the contest being counted as a tie in the record books, the Zips are 65-0-2 when they score at least two goals in a match during Caleb Porter's five years as coach.

Outta here: CJ Morgante, one of the three officials, left the match with 4:27 left in the first half, just after Michael Nanchoff netted Akron's first goal and 28 seconds before teammate Scott Caldwell scored.

Morgante was replaced for the rest of the match by alternate referee Ioan Aldea.

"No comment on why he left, but he left on his own," NCAA site representative Randale Richmond said.

Porter complimented the officiating. Of Morgante's departure, he said: "I'm probably as clueless as you are. I have no idea what happened."

They say: Cal coach Kevin Grimes, of course, was disappointed with the contest's outcome, but pleased with his team's resilience.

"Not many teams have taken a great team like Akron to the wire like we did," he said. "It was a 50-50 game. Either team could have won."

Porter had little doubt Kofi Sarkodie would make the decisive penalty kick during the shootout.

"He's our most confident guy," Porter said. "That's why he's our fifth kicker [in a shootout]. When it went in, there's no feeling like it. To get to the College Cup is the pinnacle. . . .204 teams try to get there, and four do it."

Nikola Cventinovic's layup caps Akron men's comeback on road: Local College Basketball Roundup

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John Carroll's men's team also wins, but Akron's and Kent State's women's teams lose.

Nikola Cvetinovic hit a layup with 19 seconds left to break a tie and lift Akron to a 54-52 men's basketball victory at Illinois-Chicago on Saturday.

Cvetinovic scored 19 points to lead the Zips (4-2).

The Flames (4-5) were up by 13 points early in the second half, but Akron hammered away with 44.8 percent shooting in the second half.

Brett McClanahan tied it at 52-all on a 3-pointer with about a minute left in the game.

Akron's Steve McNees later stole the ball, and Cvetinovic clinched it soon after.

Marietta 83, Baldwin-Wallace 61 Marietta stayed unbeaten with a victory at Baldwin-Wallace. The Pioneers are 6-0, 2-0 in the Ohio Athletic Conference. The Yellow-Jackets fall to 2-4, 1-1.

John Carroll 93, Capital 87 Michael Hartnett set a Blue Streaks record with nine 3-pointers as JCU (5-1, 1-0) won at Capital (4-2, 0-1).

Wabash 59, Hiram 56 Chris Roberts (Kennedy) scored 25 points to become the 22nd player in Hiram's history to score more than 1,000 points, but the host Terriers (3-4, 0-2 North Coast Athletic Conference) lost to the Little Giants (8-0, 1-0.

Ohio Wesleyan 92, Oberlin 49 The Yeoman (1-5, 0-2) shot only 24 percent and lost their fifth straight, to the visiting Bishops (3-4, 1-0).

Adrian 68, Notre Dame College 62 (OT) The visiting Falcons (2-5) held Adrian (3-3) to 19 points in the second half, but still lost in overtime.

Women

St. Francis 101, Kent State 92 (OT) The Golden Flashes (6-1) lost their first game of the season Saturday afternoon, in overtime, at Saint Francis (Pa.).

The Flashes were unable to hold on to a 12-point halftime lead as the Red Flash outscored them, 34-16, over the last 7:50 of the game, including overtime.

Senior Stephanie Gibson (North Canton), who turned 22 on Saturday, put Kent State into overtime with a buzzer-beating three-pointer to tie the game at 83-83. She also hit a long three-pointer as the first half expired that gave Kent State a 49-37 lead.

Saint Francis was 6-of-6 from the field in the extra session.

Wright State 71, Akron 64 Akron's Rachel Tecca scored a team-high 19 points and senior Kara Murphy had 15 points and 13 rebounds, but the Zips (4-4) lost at home to Horizon League member Wright State (3-3).

Tecca sank two free throws with 1:38 left to close the gap to 66-63, and a pair of free throws from teammate Taylor Rupper narrowed the score to 67-64. But the Raiders closed the game out with made free throws of their own.

Wright State's LaShawna Thomas had a game-high 25 points.

Denison 72, CWRU 69 The Spartans (3-3) dropped their third straight to the visiting Big Red (7-0).

Baldwin-Wallace 73, Kenyon 63 The Yellow-Jacket's Amanda Schroeder scored 18 to move into eighth place on the school's all-time list, with 1,072 points. B-W is 5-1, Kenyon 5-3.

Capital 75, John Carroll 60 The Blue Streaks (4-2, 0-1 Ohio Athletic Conference) lost at Capital (3-1, 1-0).

Notre Dame College 69, Mount Vernon Nazarene 60 The Falcons (8-1, 3-0 American Mideast Conference) went on the road to win their seventh straight, over the Lady Cougars (6-3).

Cedarville 98, Ursuline 49 The Arrows (1-8, 0-2) lost at Cedarville (5-3, 2-0).

Hillsdale 85, Lake Erie 69 The host Chargers (6-1, 1-1 Great Lakes Intercollegiate Conference) went on a 15-4 run in the first half and beat the Storm (2-3, 1-1).

Terry Pluto's talkin' ... about more than just a Cavaliers loss and the importance of the Browns' final games

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The fans' emails were overwhelming in their anger and disappointment in the Cavaliers this week.

lebron-andy-embrace-vert-cc.jpgView full sizeFor many fans, scenes of current Cavaliers -- such as Anderson Varejao -- seemingly expressing great affection for LeBron James will be the lingering memory of James' heralded return to Cleveland ... and not a home team determined to win for its fans.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Observations after one very memorable week for Northeast Ohio.

About LeBron's return and why the Cavs are mad...

The Cavs did more than lose, 118-90, to Miami, a game that could have been a 50-point defeat as LeBron James (38 points, eight assists and five rebounds) didn't play in the fourth quarter.

There is a real sense that the team let down the fans, who were looking for any reason to cheer.

Consider this email from Tom Wallenhorst: "This was a total embarrassment! The Cavs needed to play well and at least keep the game close. ... I just saved myself a lot of time watching the Cavs on TV this season. ... My son paid $50 to get a cheap seat last night and he texted me that he should have saved his money!"

There were so many angry emails, far more than the usual venting after a defeat. It was something deeper, a sense that the team didn't understand what this game meant. They were especially insulted by how James wandered by the Cavs bench and seemed to joke and talk with some players.

At least, that's how the fans saw it. They also saw James hug a few Cavs before the game. If the Cavs had kept the game close and delivered some hard fouls on James, this wouldn't be an issue.

When they were interviewed Friday, a few players such as Daniel Gibson and Antawn Jamison insist the tone was different. Gibson implied his friendship with James is over. Jamison seemed distraught by the loss. They indicated they were angry with James.

But after Thursday's game, no one from the Cavs said anything negative about James. Nor did the coaches realize how it seemed to the fans that the Cavs were not competing while being warm and fuzzy to James when the action stopped.

As Neil Kamerer emailed: "I'm done watching our team play this year. Mr. [Dan] Gilbert needs to clean house with these players and get ones with heart! They were laughing on the bench and not at all in the game. ... I'm a Cavs fan for 35 years."

This was a big moment on the national stage for the Cavs and the players, and the result was a horrible performance that led most of the nation's fans to say, "You can't blame James for leaving with those kind of players around him."

D.R. Zavagno emailed: "One has to wonder how soon Dan Gilbert wakes up to the aptitude of the modern day NBA player and what he has to do as an owner to rebuild. Given the choice, the team chose the enemy to embrace. They snubbed their team, city, and Gilbert."

As Joe Jirgal emailed: "Cavs fans [left] more upset with the team than with (James). No heart, little effort, freebies to the basket for easy layups. ... Really pathetic display. How can the fans feel good about our team that doesn't have a sense for what [this game] was about?"

As Adam Neff emailed: "After the Cavs laid down without any effort, I'm completely done with the NBA. I feel like my favorite pet just died never to have one like it again. Should I give up? I see no reason to put time/effort/money into something that only brings disappointment. I'd love for you to convince me otherwise."

Now, the Cavs have to work on winning back fans. They are not stupid. They knew the moment James uttered the infamous "taking my talents to South Beach" line, the team was no longer a contender. They are willing to buy into what Scott is trying to do in terms of changing the offense, demanding more toughness.

But fans deserved much better than what the Cavs delivered against Miami.

About the Cavs...

williams-horiz-strut-jg.jpgView full sizeThe Cavaliers need to find other offensive options other than Mo Williams in order to have much success this season.

1. The Cavs coaches and players have discussed how they handled the issue of James talking to the bench. A bigger problem heading into Saturday's game at Minnesota is the Cavs struggling in every facet. Yes, Boston and Miami are talented teams, but the Cavs looked helpless during long stretches of those games.

2. It's seems clear the key to shutting down the Cavs is Mo Williams. The Cavs are 4-2 when he scores at least 20 points. He is perhaps their only player who can create his own shot off the dribble. But he can be stopped by good teams. Boston and Miami often double-teamed him and frustrated the 6-1 guard by defending him with taller players. In the lopsided losses to the Heat and Boston, Williams shot only 7-of-20 (35 percent), scoring a total of 24 points. He had 10 assists, seven turnovers and wasn't a factor.

3. The players are not adapting to Scott's Princeton offense. They rarely make backcuts to the basket. J.J. Hickson often looks confused. It's harder to play than the usual stand-around, two-man, pick-and-roll style of many NBA teams. But it's needed on the Cavs because they have no low-post scorer near the basket, nor do they have a very creative player at small forward or shooting guard.

4. At 34 years old and with a cranky knee, Antawn Jamison is not playing well in the second night of back-to-back games. In those five games with short rest, Jamison is averaging only 8.4 points, 5.0 rebounds and shooting 34 percent. In his 10 other games, he's at 13.2 points, 6.3 rebounds and shooting 45 percent.

5. I received a few emails insisting that I ignored some poor behavior from the crowd at the Miami game. One person insisted at least 20 fans were removed. The Cavs said there was one arrest, four ejections. Others wondered why I didn't hear some of the tasteless chants such as "Who's your father?" when James had the ball. I didn't hear that one, but I did hear too many obscenities. The Heat reported a towel thrown at James (leading to a fan ejection) and a battery that landed near the bench. I didn't learn of this until after my story was written.

6. I hate the profane language screamed by some fans. You get a lot of that at football games, and this was more like a rowdy Browns crowd than what you usually find at the Cavs games. Overall, the disasters predicted were avoided. I'm just glad that mess is over.

About the Browns...

mangini-falcons-late-ldj.jpgView full sizeEric Mangini's future with the Browns remains dependent on a strong finish by his team -- including Sunday's game in Miami, says Terry Pluto.

1. I did several national talk shows this week on LeBron James, but several questions on Cleveland sports dealt with these themes: "Is Eric Mangini's job on the line?" The answer is -- of course. Any coaching coming off a 5-11 season with a new front office that includes an established coach as president means the current coach has to produce. That has been the case since Mike Holmgren was hired as president, and decided to retain Mangini.

2. Yes, this is a big game at Miami, as are all five remaining games. The 4-7 Browns should aim for at least a 7-9 record to ratify much of what Mangini and his staff have done. It also will make a point to the fans -- the team is improving.

3. At this point last year, the Browns were 1-10 and had been outscored by a combined 160 points, or 14.3 per game. Today, they are 4-7, consistently playing tight games, being outscored by 13 points (1.2). They are one of five teams with an offense to score at least 20 points in the last five games. They are one of four defenses this season yet to give up 30 points.

4. So the record is better, and the stats are better. The Browns finished last season with four victories, making them 5-11. Mangini wants this team to have a sense of accomplishment, along with confidence in what they are building and to do it with another strong finish.

5. The coaches are challenging the players to realize that character and toughness win games this time of year. The weather is cold. Virtually every regular player is dealing with some type of nagging injury, many have multiple physical problems. For teams such as the Browns, not in the playoff race, the temptation is for some players to sit out, or not pay attention in meetings.

6. That won't be the case with Miami, which is 6-5 and one of the biggest and most physical teams the Browns will face. The Dolphins rank No. 4 against the pass, No. 14 against the run. They will load up the line against Peyton Hillis, daring Jake Delhomme to throw -- especially to the wide receivers. The Miami safeties will be near the line, trying to take away passes to running backs and tight ends.

7. The coaches are talking to Delhomme about avoiding "catastrophic" interceptions, those returned for touchdowns. There's nothing wrong with throwing the ball away. At 36, he simply can't make the athletic throws that he did a few years ago -- something the coaches must drill into him. Many of Delhomme's interceptions have been on off-balance throws. He has had two passes intercepted for touchdowns, a third returned to the Browns 1.

8. The Browns believe Delhomme can look sharper than he did against Carolina. They are convinced his ability to run the no-huddle gives the Browns a real advantage because it can wear down a defense and also develop a quick rhythm for Delhomme. Something the Browns must remember is Delhomme is a momentum passer -- good and bad. He can become very hot, and then very cold.

9. In the victory over Carolina, Delhomme ended the first half by fumbling. Why were the Browns passing with 40 seconds left, the ball on their own 29 and with a 21-13 lead? Run out the clock. In the third quarter, the Browns opened with a pass, which was intercepted. They got the ball back, ran it once -- and then Delhomme threw an interception. So there were two interceptions, a fumble for a 10-yard loss and a 1-yard Peyton Hillis run on four plays. They have to calm down Delhomme with wise play calls when he starts down one of these scary roads.

10. The Browns expect Miami to run the ball. They may move veteran linebacker David Bowens from outside linebacker to the inside, helping Chris Gocong and Eric Barton. The Dolphins ran for 186 yards in their victory at Oakland, and the Browns gave up 151 yards (5.6 average) to Carolina last week. If Bowens plays inside linebacker, that means Marcus Benard and Jason Trusnik will receive more time outside -- with Matt Roth on the other side.

11. This from Profootballfocus.com: "Joe Haden continued to fly up the Rookie of the Year candidate lists, not to mention our own corner rankings, with another fine day. Haden was largely avoided on the day, but still managed to net himself a pick on a ball thrown over the head of the intended receiver. ... He will very possibly justify his status as the top-ranked corner prospect of the 2010 draft when the season is done."

12. And this from Profootballfocus.com: "Right tackle John St. Clair had a very bad day protecting the passer. He [gave up] a sack and five further pressures conceded, which won't make it any easier for the Browns to keep their passer on a tight leash and limit their mistakes. Only a passable day as a run blocker saved St. Clair from a truly poor grade."

13. The Browns know St. Clair has weaknesses, but they believe he combined well with veteran right guard Porkchop Womack on run blocking. Also, rookie Shawn Lauvao had a very tough game in his one start against the Jets at right guard.

14. Hillis continues to assemble a monster season. His 905 rushing yards rank ninth in the NFL. He is second with 11 rushing touchdowns, fifth with 48 rushing first downs. His 46 receptions are third among running backs.

15. I will be signing copies of my book "What I Learned From Watching The Browns" at the following: Hudson's Learned Owl Books (Wednesday, 7-8 p.m.); Westlake Borders (Friday, 7-8 p.m.) and Cuyahoga Falls Borders (Saturday, 1-2 p.m.).

With an honorable legacy as a guide, St. Edward Eagles create a moment that won't be forgotten: Bill Livingston

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St. Edward wins its first state title for its current players, its many alumni who never got to experience a championship, and for an Eagle whose life ended tragically years ago.

st. edward flag.JPGView full sizeSt. Edward fans celebrate the Eagles' victory Saturday in the Division I state championship game at Canton. St. Edward defeated Huber Heights Wayne, 35-28.
CANTON, Ohio — It was always supposed to end here, this way.

Photographs of Fawcett Stadium, which is located no more than a punt, pass and kick from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, hang on the locker room wall at St. Edward High School in Lakewood. The Eagles' season was dedicated to getting to and winning the Division I state championship game here.

On a magnificent, snowy Saturday night of high school football at its finest, St. Edward came from two touchdowns behind in the second half to beat Huber Heights Wayne and its dazzling, Ohio State-bound senior quarterback Braxton Miller, 35-28.

The first state championship in St. Edward's history featured many of the same players who went 4-6 last season. But a firmer concept of commitment had molded them into a whole new team.

Many observers thought the huge, mobile St. Edward offensive line was the equal of some Division III college lines. So maybe the starting point was the sweat the players shed in the weight room and in grueling August workouts.

Or maybe it was a more distant starting point.

These Eagles were playing not just for themselves and their moment in time, but for all the school's other superb players, from Tom Coughlin in the 1960s, to Tom Cousineau and Paul Girgash in the 1970s, to Chris Williams, Dan Graven, Kevin O'Keefe and Dan Andrews in the '80s, to DeJuan Groce, Rodney Bailey and Bobby Adams in the '90s, to Alex Boone and Shaun Carney in this century.

"We're playing for all the great players here who never got a chance to play for state or never won it," said one of the St. Edward captains, Shane McManamon.

They were also playing for the memory of Shane's brother, Jamie.

In the spring of 2004, driving back from Cornell University as a freshman, Jamie McManamon died in a one-car accident in western New York that almost claimed the life of his mother, Kerry, too. She was thrown from the car like a rag doll. "It's a miracle she is still alive," said her husband, Jim.

Everyone says Shane, a defensive lineman, is his lost brother all over again in looks. He wears the same number, 61, which was retired by St. Edward after Jamie's death, then unretired for Shane. He plays on the defensive line while Jamie went both ways as a lineman. He is a St Edward captain, as was Jamie. He is being recruited by the same school, Cornell, because he also has a sterling academic record. He even moved into his brother's old room at the family's Westlake home, as part of the process of coping with the loss.

Jamie was seven years older than Shane, but the gap was bridged by the older brother's demeanor and the younger one's emulation. "He didn't just show me how to play sports. He showed me the way to be a man," Shane said.

When Warren Harding beat the Eagles in the playoffs in 2002, going on to the state championship game that seemed St. Edward's for the taking, it was because a last-minute flaw in the defensive scheme left only one man to cover future Michigan and NFL star Mario Manningham.

Jamie took the loss with a maturity far beyond that of a boy whose dreams had been smashed. He put an arm around the shoulders of his position coach, consoling him while other distraught players second-guessed the defense. No St. Edward coach ever forgot the moment.

"I showed Shane and [teammate] Rob Coury the tape of the Warren Harding game every Saturday night," said Jim McManamon. "I wanted them to see those players crying after a loss, so they could cry tears of joy after a victory.""

Although few expected Shane to play in the days after Jamie's funeral, he was in the St. Bernadette lineup for the next CYO baseball game in 2004. He focused his talent fiercely in hitting three home runs against St. James. "I had the best game of my life. I thought sports was the best way to keep Jamie's name alive. I was playing for him," Shane said.

A half-hour after the game Saturday night, players around Shane McManamon were still celebrating on the whitened field. "To do this for St. Ed's, while wearing my brother's number, is unreal," Shane said. "It's the greatest feeling in the world."

In the chapel at St. Edward is a huge window, which was filled with sunlight on a recent visit. It is decorated with pieces of stained glass, each shaped like a teardrop. They symbolize the tears of grace, the infinite mercy and unmerited favor believers are convinced they receive from God. If a worshipper moves from one side of the chapel to the other, it causes the colors to change, from purple to green to gold. One of the teardrops is dedicated to Jamie McManamon. It is the only one without a colored filament in it.

It is pure, clear and unstained, like his memory, like the Eagles' season.

To reach Bill Livingston: blivingston@plaind.com, 216-999-4672



Terry Pluto's pregame scribbles before the Browns take on the Dolphins

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With veteran Jake Delhomme, you'll see some of the plays that the Browns would eventually like to run with Colt McCoy -- especially the no-huddle offense.

delhomme-dropback-caro-jk.jpgView full sizeJake Delhomme's comfort with working a no-huddle offense is one of the reasons the Browns will start him over backup Seneca Wallace today in Miami.

MIAMI -- Scribbles before the Browns take on the Dolphins today ...

1. With veteran Jake Delhomme at quarterback, you'll see some of the plays that the Browns would eventually like to run with Colt McCoy -- especially the no-huddle offense. The coaches became sold on it last season when Brady Quinn took over after the bye week. It didn't help Quinn's passing because of his accuracy issues, but the Browns believe it was an aid to the running game. The quick tempo made it difficult for the defense to substitute, and it also helped the Browns linemen develop a nice blocking rhythm.

2. The plan was to use mostly the no-huddle by the second or third game, as Delhomme was very comfortable with it. Having played in the West Coast offense in Seattle, Seneca Wallace was challenged enough learning the system here -- so they did not use it with him. The same basic approach was true with McCoy. They believed the rookie from Texas had enough to deal with simply adapting to the NFL.

3. But McCoy proved so capable of learning game plans that the no-huddle was soon to be employed. Then, McCoy sprained his ankle at Jacksonville, his fifth start.

4. So now it's back to Delhomme, and the hope is McCoy can play the final two home games against Pittsburgh and Baltimore. He keeps telling the coaches that he may be ready as soon as next week at Buffalo. But McCoy has never had a high ankle sprain before. Fans know from watching Delhomme and Wallace that they don't heal in a few weeks.

5. Just a thought: The biggest fear with Delhomme is the costly interception. He is throwing one every 15 pass attempts this season. McCoy had only three in five games. The coaches were very impressed with his accuracy (64 percent) and ability to keep plays alive by escaping the rush and throwing on the move. They do think he held the ball a few times too long at Jacksonville, part of the reason he was sacked six times.

6. The Browns won't say it, but the coaches are sold on McCoy being the quarterback of the present and near future. He has shown them the mental toughness and football intelligence needed to start.

7. It's a shame McCoy was injured because you could see the fans grabbing on to him and Peyton Hillis -- joining Joshua Cribbs -- as players who are easy to like and whose jerseys are worth wearing.

8. Several times this season, Eric Mangini has said the best play for a quarterback is to throw the ball away. Delhomme must keep that in mind today, who play a confusing 3-4 defense. The Browns compare Miami's tactics to Baltimore's 3-4, which means lots of pressure. Not only do the Dolphins think they can force him into interceptions, but they believe his tendency to hold the ball too long can lead to fumbles.

9. No one told me this, but if Delhomme has a turnover-prone first half, the Browns may go to Wallace. Every Browns' fan has heard Mangini's lectures about "self-inflicted wounds." The coach also said Miami is a very physical team, but disciplined as it ranks fourth in fewest turnovers. The Browns are No. 7.

10. You can be sure defensive coordinator Rob Ryan challenges his players after Sunday's passive effort in what was a very fortunate 24-23 victory over Carolina. I love how Ryan said Friday that this game would prove "the death of our defense has been greatly exaggerated."

11. Ryan defended his defense by stating they are 13th in points allowed, fourth in interceptions and fifth in forcing turnovers. He raved about the tackling of Joe Haden, something that you don't notice unless you recall how often Eric Wright, Brandon McDonald and some other cornerbacks miss tackles.

12. Ryan seemed very uncertain about Shaun Rogers, who "never has been full speed. We have to get out of him what we can and hope he doesn't have any more setbacks." The Browns refuse to confirm it, but Rogers put on extra weight when he was out with his leg injury during the summer. He then had ankle and other problems. In limited action, he has been effective. Teams still have to use two guys to block him. So even if he only plays 25 percent of the snaps, it is a benefit.

Tony Grossi's take on today's NFL games

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Get Tony Grossi's predictions as well The Plain Dealer staff picks on today's Browns vs. Dolphins game.

Roethlisberger.jpgPittsburgh battles Baltimore tonight with first-place in the AFC North on the line.

Pittsburgh at Baltimore, 8:20 p.m.
TV: WKYC Channel 3.
Line: Ravens by 3.
Tony Grossi's take: Ed Reed will pick off Big Ben at a key point. Ravens 23, Steelers 17.

San Francisco at Green Bay, 1 p.m.
Line: Packers by 91⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: 49ers will miss Frank Gore greatly. Packers 30, 49ers 10.

Denver at Kansas City, 1 p.m.
Line: Chiefs by 81⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Chiefs avenge earlier whuppin’ from Broncos. Chiefs 28, Broncos 20.

Buffalo at Minnesota, 1 p.m.
Line: Vikings by 51⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Vikings are responding to interim coach Leslie Frazier. Vikings 27, Bills 19.

Jacksonville at Tennessee, 1 p.m.
Line:
Titans by 31⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Jeff Fisher heading toward an- other .500 season. Nobody does it better. Jag- uars 23, Titans 20.

Chicago at Detroit, 1 p.m.
TV:
WJW Channel 8.
Line: Bears by 41⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Jay Cutler’s INT potential always keeps opponents in games. Bears 24, Lions 14.

Washington at N.Y. Giants, 1 p.m.
Line:
Giants by 7.
Tony Grossi's take: Should not be a problem for Eli Manning & Co. Giants 27, Redskins 17.

New Orleans at Cincinnati, 1 p.m.
Line: Saints by 61⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: The T-Ocho Show — on field and on cable — is a disaster. Saints 31, Bengals 20.

Oakland at San Diego, 4:05 p.m.
Line:
Chargers by 121⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Chargers never lose in December. Too bad playoffs are in January. Chargers 41, Raiders 27.

Carolina at Seattle, 4:15 p.m.
Line: Seahawks by 51⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Long, long trip for Panthers won’t help their cause. Seahawks 23, Panthers 13.

St. Louis at Arizona, 4:15 p.m.
Line: Rams by 31⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Sure hope D.A. doesn’t have an- other meltdown when fans boo. Rams 26, Cardinals 13.

Atlanta at Tampa Bay, 4:15 p.m.
Line:
Falcons by 3.
Tony Grossi's take: Bucs are 0-4 against teams with winning records. Falcons 24, Bucs 20.

Dallas at Indianapolis, 4:15 p.m.
TV:
WJW Channel 8.
Line: Colts by 51⁄2.
Tony Grossi's take: Peyton Manning must feel weight of stadium on his shoulders. Colts 26, Cowboys 23.

GROSSI UPDATE

Last week overall: 12-4 .750

Season overall: 107-69 .608

Last week vs. spread: 9-6-1 .593

Season vs. spread: 82-91-3 .474

Live on DSN: Browns Huddle Pre-Game Show

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Get ready for the game by watching or listening to Browns Huddle pre-game show from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. streamed live from Tower City. Join Harry Petsanis, Ray Yannucci and Chuck Booms as they break down today's matchup between the Browns and Dolphins.

Browns Huddle Pre-Game airs today from 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

jake delhomme browns huddleGet a preview of today's game from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on cleveland.com/dsn.


Can Jake Delhomme deliver his second straight win for the Browns on the road in Miami? Will the Browns defense make a stop when it matters?

Join DSN's Harry Petsanis, Ray Yannucci and Chuck Booms today for Browns Huddle as they preview the Browns game live from their Tower City Center studios  from 9 a.m to 1 p.m.

They'll talk about the matchup, break down the keys to the game, go around the NFL,  take your calls, field your comments from the chat room and answer your emails.

Remember, you can watch the live video stream or listen to the audio-only stream and interact with the studio via chat room, Twitter, Facebook, phone or email.

After the game, be sure to tune into the Browns Aftermath post-game show on DSN from 4-6 p.m.


Cleveland Browns move Joe Haden ahead of Eric Wright

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Wright is active, but will play behind Haden.


haden-pick-4th-panthers-jk.jpgView full sizeJoe Haden has four interceptions this season, and is now a starting cornerback for the Browns.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- Browns cornerback Eric Wright has lost his starting job to rookie Joe Haden.

Wright is active for today's game against the Miami Dolphins, but Haden is listed as the starter. It's the second game in Wright's career that he will play as a non-starter.

Haden has had three interceptions in his last three games and leads the team with four overall.

Haden, who will be making his second NFL start, won't have to worry about covering Brandon Marshall. Marshall, who leads Miami with 58 catches, is inactive and will miss his second game in a row with a hamstring injury.

Browns inactives: Receiver Jordan Norwood, quarterback Colt McCoy, receiver Carlton Mitchell, defensive end Brian Sanford, tight end Alex Smith, receiver Demetrius Williams, defensive end Jayme Mitchell and linebacker Scott Fujita.

David Bowens again will start for Fujita at strongside outside linebacker.

The Browns will stay with the combination of Floyd Womack at right guard and John St. Clair at right tackle.

Cleveland Browns' offense non-existent in 0-0 first quarter -- Tony's take

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Joe Haden breaks up TD pass for Brian Hartline and Shaun Rogers blocks 41-yard field goal try.

browns-fans-dolphins-ap.jpgView full sizeBrowns fans display their loyalties as their team prepares for kickoff of the first quarter Sunday against the Dolphins.

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- Observations, opinions and some facts on the first quarter ...

• What a hit by T.J. Ward on the opening kickoff against Nolan Carroll. Can't believe he held onto the ball. Wow. What a way to start a game.

• Dolphins move effortlessly to Browns' 31. From there, Chad Henne sends Brian Hartline on a post pattern. Joe Haden breaks it up with his right hand in the end zone. Good play.

• On third-and-10 from the 31, Dolphins hand off inside to Ricky Williams, who gets eight. Shaun Rogers then blocks Dan Carpenter's 41-yard field goal. That's what you get for playing for field goals.

• Browns go three-and-out when Carroll slams Benjamin Watson after a catch short of the first down. Great hit by Carroll.

• Henne escapes a Matt Roth sack attempt. Eric Barton is flagged for roughness when he meets Henne as Henne slides for two yards. But Dolphins aren't throwing downfield, so they have to punt.

• Browns take over at their 6 after Brandon Fields angles his punt out of bounds. Peyton Hillis 13-yard run takes Browns out of shadow of the end zone. Browns punt again after three plays. Jake Delhomme threw the ball as far as he could on third down. Nobody there.

• If the Browns' offense continues like this, the defense will be gassed by the fourth quarter.

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