Woods begins his PGA season today. He didn't win any tournaments in 2010, and he hasn't won a major in his last eight tries.

Associated PressTiger Woods during Wednesday's pro-am at the Farmers Insurance Open.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Tiger Woods will make his 2011 PGA Tour debut this afternoon at the Farmers Insurance Open on the famous Torrey Pines Golf Course in La Jolla, California.

Will we see the Tiger Woods that has won 71 PGA tournaments and 14 majors, needing four more wins among the Masters, U.S. Open, British Open and PGA Championship to catch Jack Nicklaus with 18 career major titles?

Or will we see the Woods that didn't win any tournament in 2010, and failed to win a major for the second straight year? Woods, of course, has dealt with injuries the last few years, and the shame he brought upon himself with his numerous extra-marital affairs that became public more than a year ago.

Woods' competition figures to be stronger than it ever has been, and even after he would, presumably, win some tournaments, will his intimidation factor even approach what it once was?

Woods is now No. 3 in the world rankings, behind Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer. Westwood is among a group of veterans who remain threats to Woods, including Phil Mickelson. There are questions about Mickelson, too, though sympathetic ones. He disclosed last August that he has psoriatic arthritis; and, much bigger priorities than his golf game are his wife and mother, who were both diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009.

And, a roster of talented youngsters, such as Kaymer, Rory McIlroy and Anthony Kim, stands ready to challenge Woods.

Anthony Parker considered one of the most underrated players in the NBA.

Lisa DeJong/The Plain DealerGuard/forward Anthony Parker.

Charley Rosen of AOL's Fanhouse rates the most overrated and underrated players in the NBA.

There are a few surprises, and a few right on.

When it comes to underrated, Rosen writes that Cleveland Cavaliers guard Anthony Parker is one of the most underrated players in the league.

Why?

Anthony Parker plays earnest defense and can hit open and turn-around jumpers. His complimentary talents were overshadowed when LeBron dominated the Cavs' game plan. These days, the Cavs are so bad that Parker's special talents are superfluous.

When it comes to overrated, it's not surprise that Rosen considers Vince Carter and Kenyon Martin as overrated. It is a surprise to many that Rosen writes how two-time MVP LeBron James is also overrated.

LeBron James heads the list because despite his gargantuan numbers he still has to prove that he's not a quitter (remember the concluding two games of last season's Celtics-Cavs series?) and not a loser. Moreover, although he's become celebrated for running down and blocking breakaways, his posture is still too upright for him to play adequate defense against quick-footed opponents.

Oscar Robertson sues NCAA.

Associated PressOscar Robertson

The Big O, Oscar Robertson, wants his Big $ from the NCAA for using his likeness without his permission.

Robertson, the only man to average a triple double in the NBA, was also one of the greatest college players when he played for the University of Cincinnati. 

Robertson, writes Dan Wetzel of Yahoo Sports, wants to know why trading card companies Upper Deck and Donruss, are selling his likeness. Upper Deck and Donruss got their permission from the NCAA, but neither the NCAA nor the trading card companies got Robertson's permission.

The NCAA signed the licensing deals without Robertson’s direct consent, and the NCAA says it has the right to control a player’s likeness in perpetuity.

In the case of the 72-year-old Big O, that means 51 years and counting. He left UC in 1960.

“The arrogance of the NCAA to say, ‘we have the right to do this,’ … is what troubles me the most,” Robertson told Yahoo! Sports on Wednesday. “The University of Cincinnati gets a fee each time my picture is used on a card. I don’t. When I played there, there was nothing like this ever agreed to.”

Robertson put his considerable reputation on the line Wednesday and joined a 2009 class action suit against the NCAA, first championed by former UCLA Bruin star Ed O’Bannon, as a name plaintiff.

Antawn Jamison is not the only name NBA teams might be interested in, says PD reporter. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, our Web morning show about what's happening in Cleveland sports. Today's show is hosted by Branson Wright, as Chuck Yarborough is still on vacation in lovely Belize.

Today's guest is Plain Dealer reporter Jodie Valade, who will cover Cavaliers practice this afternoon and tomorrow's game against the Denver Nuggets. Jodie says that if the Cavs are looking to deal, they have more than one player who will draw some value on the trade market, although contract size is always an issue.

If the Cavaliers had to have a player in the All-Star Game, who would it be? Jodie says that even though he is out for the year with an injury, she thinks Anderson Varejao would deserve the nod. Which player would you pick? Cast your vote in today's Starting Blocks poll.

SBTV will return Friday with Plain Dealer Browns reporter Tony Grossi answering fan questions from his weekly Hey, Tony! feature.

Thomas Ondrey, The Plain DealerWill Cleveland Cavaliers GM Chris Grant make some decisions to open more successful opportunites for the Cavaliers? The Cleveland Cavaliers are the worst team in the NBA, and that fact led to this story by Dime Magazine on what the Cavaliers should do during the offseason to improve the team. Should the Cavaliers go hard after free agents?...

Thomas Ondrey, The Plain DealerWill Cleveland Cavaliers GM Chris Grant make some decisions to open more successful opportunites for the Cavaliers?

The Cleveland Cavaliers are the worst team in the NBA, and that fact led to this story by Dime Magazine on what the Cavaliers should do during the offseason to improve the team.

Should the Cavaliers go hard after free agents? Should the Cavaliers trade away their veterans? Or should the Cavaliers focus their attention on a savior in the draft?

When it comes to the draft, writes Lucas Shapiro of Dime Magazine, there are a list of players the Cavaliers could use for next season.

If the Cavaliers pick number one, it could come down to the Joneses --- Perry Jones of Baylor or Terrence Jones of Kentucky.

It looks like Baylor freshman Perry Jones could be their best option. At 6-11, few frontcourt players are as skilled as Jones. When he wants to, he can be an unstoppable force. So far this season, he has shown improved consistency, but it will be interesting to see if that continues into February. He has put up decent numbers (13.9 points, 7.1 rebounds per game) but there are concerns about him projecting as more of a face-up power forward.

The other Jones, Kentucky freshman Terrence Jones, has the same issue. Unlike Perry, Terrence has put up great numbers (18.3 ppg, 8.9 rpg) against good competition. The only difference is that Terrence is three inches shorter than Perry. Both have great potential. It will be up to the Cavaliers to see how patient they can be if they draft either of these guys.

Losing and not enough winning

Ohio.com's Jason Lloyd writes how the Cavaliers are unfortunately on the cusp of reaching several milestones when it comes to losing.

We've seen already this season how the Cavs have set franchise records for consecutive road losses (22 and counting), fewest points in a game (57) and worst loss (55 points). If not for a basket by Christian Eyenga just before the half of that debacle at the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this month, this team would hold the record for fewest points in a half, too.

On deck is the longest single-season losing streak (19) and in the hole is the longest losing streak overall (24). Warming in the bullpen is the first winless month (minimum 10 games) in team history.

The Cavs are at 18 consecutive losses and counting, with the Denver Nuggets eager to get to town Friday to get their swings in against the worst team in the league.

  

 Trade?

There are rumors that Antawn Jamison may get traded before the trade deadline on Feb. 24. Yahoo.com has this article about the rumors, and if you have ESPN Insider, there is more detail.

The Cavaliers are also looking for partners in a trade for Mo Williams, according to ESPN.

Is Colt McCoy officially the No. 1 QB yet?

Joshua Gunter/ The Plain DealerCleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy (12).

Mike Holmgren came closer to naming Colt McCoy as the Browns' number one quarterback, writes CantonRep.com reporter Steve Doerschuk.  Holmgren, Browns' president, conducted an interview on ESPN Chicago this week.

Doerschuk writes from that interview:

“I hired Pat because I think we have a good young quarterback,” Holmgren said, “and I wanted an offensive-minded head coach. It pretty much boiled down to that. And, I wanted one familiar with the system I was familiar with.

The day Shurmur was hired, neither Holmgren nor General Manager Tom Heckert would say McCoy is good enough to keep them from spending their top pick in the draft, No. 6 overall, on a quarterback.

In tying the Shurmur hire to McCoy, Holmgren came closer to identifying McCoy as the starting quarterback for 2011 and beyond.

Exciting

The Cleveland Browns won only five games this season, but the Browns rank No. 11 among NFL teams when it comes to excitement, writes WSJ.com reporter Jared Diamond.

According to research by the statistics company Thuuz, the Steelers were the 29th-most exciting team in the NFL this season, while the Packers finished 12th. The two teams won 22 total games, while the three most exciting squads—Houston, Washington and Dallas—combined for 18 wins.  

Colt on the beach

You wouldn't believe what Colt McCoy is doing with his free time during Super Bowl week.

Should the Cleveland Browns pursue free agent Plaxico Burress?

APPlaxico Burress

Former New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Plaxico Burress is expected to get released from prison in June.

Burress was sentenced to two years in prison on a gun charge.

Burress could become the next great NFL comeback story, similar to Michael Vick of the Philadlephia Eagles. It was Vick who returned to the NFL after serving time in prison, and he had an MVP type of year this past season.

Burress who caught the winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLII against the New England Patriots. Burress will be 34 next season.

Since the Cleveland Browns could use all the help they can get at the wide receiver position, and since Burress shouldn't cost that much to sign, should the Browns sign him?

White had a banner season in 2010, his first in pro baseball. Chisenhall is ranked among baseball's top prospects.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerAlex White with the Indians in spring training last February.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The 2011 Cleveland Indians are coming off seasons of 65-97 in 2009 and 69-93 last year, when the team's youth movement began in earnest.

This season's Indians roster will again be loaded with young big leaguers. Players whom the Indians hope will form the core of the lineup, starting pitching rotation and, to an extent, the bullpen, for the next several years will wear the Tribe uniform at some point of the spring and summer.

Starting pitcher Alex White is expected to begin the season with the Class AAA Columbus Clippers. The right-hander was Cleveland's first pick in the 2009 draft, and made his professional debut last year.

Jim Ingraham of the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal details some of White's impressive 2010 statistics, and writes (referring to Indians farm director Ross Atkins):

He was also selected as the winner of the Bob Feller Award as the organization's top minor-league pitcher.

"What's most impressive about Alex is his ability to use his fastball to get outs,'' said Atkins. "That's unusual. Cliff Lee is able to do it. Fausto (Carmona) can do it. They don't need to go to their secondary pitches to get outs.''

White's fastball sits in the low 90s, with occasional bursts to the mid-90s. In those 150 innings last year, he allowed 123 hits, with 117 strikeouts and 46 walks. Opposing batters hit .220 against him.

White, who is in Cleveland to take part in the Tribe's Winter Development Program, said his first full season as a professional was a learning experience.

"I learned a lot,'' he said. "One of the biggest things I learned was how to pitch a good game on days you don't have your best stuff.''

The Plain Dealer and cleveland.com provide continuous Indians coverage. Tribe pitchers and catchers report to spring training in Goodyear, Ariz. on Feb. 15. Plain Dealer Indians beat writer Paul Hoynes will cover spring training on a daily basis, while columnists Terry Pluto and Bud Shaw and photographer Chuck Crow will also work from there.

Hoynes goes on Twitter to report that the Washington Nationals and Indians have not been in any talks regarding Tribe center fielder Grady Sizemore and pitcher Fausto Carmona. A sports network that covers the Nationals speculated earlier this week that there had been talk between the teams.

Hot corner hopeful

Third baseman Lonnie Chisenhall is another promising youngster whom the Indians hope will emerge as a big-league star.

Chuck Crow, Plain DealerIndians third base prospect Lonnie Chisenhall.

MLB.com ranks Chisenhall 36th on its new Top 50 Prospects list. Jordan Bastian writes about Chisenhall for MLB.com:  

Atkins noted that Chisenhall -- a shortstop prior to joining the Indians -- is strong defensively at the hot corner. The third baseman made 17 errors in 2010 and was charged with 22 one year earlier, but Atkins said most of the miscues are the result of Chisenhall taking risks in the field.

"He has great hands and good feet," Atkins said. "He does slow the game down. He understands positioning. He asks good questions about it. He's always prepared and has a lot of confidence in his ability. I think the errors that you see with Lonnie ... there's not a lot of consistency to them that would bring reason for concern.

"They are errors where he's learning a new position -- he was a shortstop as an amateur -- and he's pushing the envelope. He's trying to learn what his limits will be."

Full counts

Indians Prospect Insider continues its countdown of the Tribe's top 50 prospects. Tony Lastoria writes about No. 45, outfielder Bo Greenwell.

The Indians' bullpen will be a young one, by Jordan Bastian of MLB.com.

ESPN's Buster Olney, like the Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes, goes on Twitter to report that he's heard Washington has not talked with the Indians about Sizemore and Carmona.

FoxSports.com has a photo gallery of the "most expensive" players by position. The designated hitter is the Indians' Travis Hafner.

The league estimates its gross revenue losses at $120 million with no deal by March and $1 billion with no deal by September.

AP Commissioner Roger Goodell, the NFL and its players have a lot riding on reaching a new labor deal.

NEW YORK, New York – The NFL says more than 500 players would miss out on hundreds of millions of contract dollars in March if a new labor deal isn't reached by the deadline.

Jeff Pash, the league's lead negotiator, says Thursday that there is "a set of very real consequences if we don't have an agreement by early March."

The current collective bargaining agreement is set to expire March 3. Owners could impose a lockout as early as the next day.

Although no formal large-group negotiating sessions are currently scheduled, Pash says the March 3 deadline could be extended if there's progress.

The league estimates its gross revenue losses at $120 million with no deal by March and $1 billion with no deal by September.

Pash says "there's a lot at risk" for owners and players.

Bernie Kosar will soon be back in pro football, but it probably won't be with the Browns.

PDBernie Kosar, shown here with former Browns offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, is considering a return to the NFL.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A chance to catch some sun and eat gulf seafood is not the only reason that Bernie Kosar is in Mobile, Ala. for this week's Senior Bowl workouts.

The former Browns quarterback is sending a message that he's open to working for an NFL team next season.

He's has been talking to the likes of Baltimore Ravens president Ozzie Newsome and New England coach Bill Belichick. Some of it is social. But some of it may lead to a job for Kosar.

A report from Boston said Kosar was looking for a coaching job, perhaps on Belichick's staff.

Coaching?

Probably not.

Working as a special consultant to Belichick, Newsome or someone else -- think the Miami Dolphins, where former Browns offensive coordinator Brian Daboll has been hired -- those are all possibilities.

Daboll and Kosar became very close in the 2009 season when former coach Eric Mangini brought Kosar into his inner-circle, especially in the last half of the season. Kosar told friends that some of his favorite moments in the last few years were sitting with Mangini, Daboll and a few other coaches for late night film sessions and game preparation -- that was in 2009.

When the Browns hired Mike Holmgren as president, he brought along Gil Haskell as his special consultant in 2010.

It was Haskell who worked with Daboll. It is Haskell who probably will have influence on new coach Pat Shurmur and the offensive coordinator to be named later as the Browns install the West Coast offense.

Kosar's role with the Browns diminished last season. He was not interested in a community relations position, meeting with suite holders and giving speeches.

His passion is football.

With four children between the ages of 10 and 18, it's doubtful Kosar wants to work the monster hours that are required of NFL offensive coordinators and quarterback coaches. But a chance to mentor a young coordinator such as Daboll ... and the opportunity to help an old friend such as Newsome ... or even a new one in Belichick ...

That makes sense for Kosar at this point in his life.

Yes, it was Belichick who cut Kosar in the middle of the 1993 season, a move that still angers many Browns fans. But Kosar and Belichick made up several years ago, starting when Kosar supported Belichick in interviews with the Boston media when he was hired as the Patriots coach.

Miami could be another possibility.

Kosar still has a home in Miami and is still well-regarded from his days with the Hurricanes. When Daboll was hired, the words of Mangini and others (probably Kosar) were important to helping him overcome his low ratings with the Browns offense in 2009-2010.

A front office job would appeal to Kosar, who also is close to John Elway -- the new president of the Denver Broncos. While Kosar doesn't want to run a franchise, he does want a job such as special consultant with real football duties.

At the age of 47, Kosar's divorce has been resolved and he is working through bankruptcy issues. He is in better physical condition. In the last two years, he has lost weight, regularly works out and has been receiving treatment for the multiple concussions that he suffered as a player that later impacted his speech and concentration.

So it's no surprise that Kosar is making one more pass to find a spot in a sport that remains his first love.

Do you want to see Bernie Kosar coaching for someone other than the Browns? Take our poll

Bernie Kosar may be talking to the Bengals or Patriots about a coaching position, reports say.

PD fileBernie Kosar throwns in the snow against the Houston Oilers on Dec. 15, 1991.

Updated with link to WKNR interview, 4:31 p.m. EST

It looks like former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar is looking for a football gig.  Boston.com reporter Greg A. Bedard writes:

• 
  
  Heard former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar has been poking around the Patriots the past couple weeks. He hopes to get into coaching.

Also, WKNR's Tony Rizzo reported this morning that the Cincinnati Bengals are talking to Kosar about a position.

Listen to Kosar's interview today with Munch Bishop of WKNR. 

See thumbnail index of this week's players of the week.

See thumbnail index of this week's players of the week.

David Walker, Stow
Sport: Basketball
Class: Junior
Age: 17
Ht: 6-6
Wt: 170
What David did last week: In a 46-34 win against Medina, point guard had 13 points, six rebounds, seven assists and a block. In a 63-45 win against Solon, had 19 points, four rebounds and six assists. Was a combined 16-of-18 from the foul line.
 
About David: Enjoys swimming and playing cards. Favorites include the Dallas Mavericks, Lakers’ Kobe Bryant, “Fast & Furious” movie, “Call of Duty” video game, steak meal, Wasabi restaurant and math class. Has been to Aruba and wants to vacation in Hawaii. Would like to learn a martial art.
Jordan Marrow, John F. Kennedy
Sport: Basketball
Class: Junior
Age: 16
Ht: 6-0
Wt: 155
What Jordan did last week: In a 96-78 victory against John Hay, point guard had 23 points, eight assists and five steals. In an 83-80 overtime win against Martin Luther King, had 34 points, including nine in overtime, nine assists and six steals.
 
About Jordan: Captain of basketball and golf teams. Member of Premier Kennedy Men Organization and Peace Action Team. Wants to become a sports trainer. Favorites include Oklahoma City Thunder, Nuggets’ Carmelo Anthony, “All About the Benjamins” movie, music by Drake and math class. Wants to try sushi.
Annie Bova, Beaumont
Sport: Basketball
Class: Junior
Age: 17
Ht: 5-6
What Annie did last week: In a 66-63 win against St. Joseph Academy, point guard had a season-high 31 points, 10 assists, eight steals and seven rebounds. She was 6-for-10 on 3-pointers. She is averaging 20 points this season.
 
About Annie: Plays catcher on the softball team. Wants to become a teacher. Favorites include “The Hangover” movie, “Family Guy” TV show, google.com, her mom’s chicken dinner, Public House restaurant and sociology class. Would like to be a contestant on “Jeopardy!” Wants to vacation in Greece.
Shanique Ogle, Lorain
Sport: Basketball
Class: Senior
Age: 17
Ht: 6-0
What Shanique did last week: Center tallied 23 points, 16 rebounds, four blocks and two steals in win over Avon Lake. Had 14 points, 12 rebounds, four steals and two blocks in win over Bedford. She is averaging 16.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, 3.6 steals and 1.6 blocks.
 
About Shanique: Bowling Green recruit also plays volleyball and track (shot put). Plans to study graphic design. Always eats oranges before games. Favorites include “Finding Nemo” movie, “The Five People you Meet in Heaven” book, taco salad meal and IHOP restaurant.
Jeff Beitel, North Olmsted
Sport: Bowling
Class: Senior
Age: 18
Ht: 5-11
Wt: 145 
What Jeff did last week: In a victory against St. Ignatius, he rolled a 206-234—440 series. He is averaging 220 this season for the 10-3 Eagles.
 
About Jeff: Enjoys playing volleyball. Will attend Wright State in the fall and plans to major in music or art. Favorites include the Pittsburgh Steelers, former Indians shortstop Omar Vizquel, “The Hangover” movie, youtube.com, “Call of Duty:  Black Ops” video game, pizza meal, Chipotle restaurant and Nike clothes. Would like to
vacation in Ireland.
Justine Anderson, Cuyahoga Falls
Sport: Bowling
Class: Senior
Age: 17
Ht: 5-3
What Justine did last week: Rolled games of 224-207 in a victory against Mayfield. Had games of 246-207 in a victory against Hudson in which the team set a school record with 2,470 pins. Leads the Northeast Ohio Conference with a 211 average for the 11-1 Black Tigers.
About Justine: Intends to teach elementary school. Favorites include the Cincinnati Bengals, bowler Norm Duke, “Cars” movie, “Modern Family” TV show, music by Train, Facebook.com, Chinese food, Texas Roadhouse restaurant, American Eagle clothes and language arts class.
Dan Telljohann, Solon
Sport: Swimming
Class: Senior
Age: 18
Ht: 5-11
Wt: 145
What Dan did last week: Won the 50 free (22 seconds) and 100 free (48.3) and was on winning 200 free relay (1: 30.4) in a loss to Hudson. In a victory against Stow, won the 100 fly (55.5) and 100 breaststroke (personal-best 1: 09.3) and was on winning 200 medley relay (1: 45.6) and winning 400 free relay (3: 24.68).
 
About Dan: Plans to attend Ohio State and major in computer science. Favorites include Buckeyes guard Aaron Craft, “Saving Private Ryan” movie, music by Weezer and “To Kill a Mockingbird” book. Will always remember winning consecutive district titles.
Annie Marquiss, Solon
Sport: Swimming
Class: Senior
Age: 18
Ht: 5-5
What Annie did last week: In a win over Stow, won the 100 breaststroke (personal-best 1: 15.53) and 200 free (2: 01.4) and was on winning 200 free relay (1: 34.6) and 400 free relay (3: 54.3). In a win against Hudson, swam a 26.7 butterfly split for winning 200 medley relay (1: 51.5) and 24 second split for winning 200 free relay (1: 41.4) and won 50 free (24.3) and 100 free (53.11).
About Annie: Member of Pre-Med Society and book club. Wants to be a surgeon. Favorites include “House” TV show, “Angels & Demons” book, Panera Bread restaurant and snowboarder Shaun White.
Albert Bryant-Adams, Cleveland Central Catholic
Sport: Wrestling
Class: Senior
Age: 18
Ht: 5-7
Wt: 171
What Albert did last week: At Firelands Falcon Invitational, won his weight class with a 6-5 decision against Maple Heights, a pin against Firelands and a 3-1 decision against the top-seeded Division I wrestler from Maple Heights. He is 23-5 this season.
 
About Albert: Enjoys football and track. Wants to study law enforcement in college. Favorites include the Pittsburgh Steelers, “The Replacements” movie, “Bones” TV show, music by Chris Brown, “Madden 2011” video game and hot dogs.
Zak Adkins, Euclid
Sport: Wrestling
Class: Senior
Age: 18
Ht: 5-9
Wt: 145
What Zak did last week: He went 5-0 with five pins. After winning his dual match against Shaker Heights, he went 4-0 at the TK Duals in Geneva. He is 29-3, with 19 pins this season.
 
About Zak: Member of the show choir. Enjoys theatre, soccer and football. Always thinks about everyone he wrestles for before competitions, and drinks a 44-ounce frozen slush after matches. Favorites include the Browns, “The Notebook” movie and Benihana restaurant. Wants to vacation in Southeast Asia. Would like to try scuba
diving.

Coaches' nominations for Players of the Week will be taken Mondays between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. The toll-free number for coaches to call for the seven-county coverage area is 1-800-388-4370.

OFF THE ICE WITH . . . Monsters defenseman Travis Gawryletz Shoots: Right. Ht/Wt: 6-2, 200. Born: Nov. 2, 1985, Trail, British Columbia. Acquired: Signed to an AHL contract in April. PD: Best active hockey player on planet? TG: Sidney Crosby. PD: Who is going to win the Stanley Cup? TG: The Canucks. PD: Super Bowl? TG: Green Bay....

OFF THE ICE WITH . . .

Monsters defenseman Travis Gawryletz

Shoots: Right.

Ht/Wt: 6-2, 200.

Born: Nov. 2, 1985, Trail, British Columbia.

Acquired: Signed to an AHL contract in April.

View full sizeLake Erie MonstersMonsters defenseman Travis Gawryletz

PD: Best active hockey player on planet?

TG: Sidney Crosby.

PD: Who is going to win the Stanley Cup?

TG: The Canucks.

PD: Super Bowl?

TG: Green Bay.

PD: Any rooting interest there?

TG: I kind of like Green Bay, but it's more that they're playing Pittsburgh. I really don't like the Steelers.

PD: Who is going to win the NBA Finals?

TG: Celtics.

PD: Season victory total for Cavaliers?

TG: That's a tough one. Fifteen.

PD: Favorite sport outside of hockey?

TG: Beach volleyball.

PD: Growing up, what did you want to be?

TG: Firefighter.

PD: If not a hockey player, what would you be?

TG: Personal trainer.

PD: Favorite junk food?

TG: Ice cream -- chocolate peanut butter.

PD: What do you do to pass time on bus trips?

TG: Watch movies, listen to music.

PD: Favorite band?

TG: Hollywood Undead.

PD: Electronic device you can't live without?

TG: Phone.

PD: Sum up Monsters coach David Quinn in one word.

TG: Boston.

PD: Why Boston?

TG: Because of the accent.

PD: Best hockey advice you received as a kid?

TG: Have fun.

PD: Best arena atmosphere you've played in?

TG: The DECC in Duluth, Minn.

PD: Smartest person you've ever met?

TG: My dad.

When the Colorado Avalanche loaned defenseman Jonas Holos to the Lake Erie Monsters on Jan. 15, it caused a bit of a stir in Denver hockey circles. Holos, a rookie from Sarpsborg, Norway, opened the season with the Avalanche before being sent to Lake Erie in late November. He was recalled by the Avalanche in mid-December but played limited...

When the Colorado Avalanche loaned defenseman Jonas Holos to the Lake Erie Monsters on Jan. 15, it caused a bit of a stir in Denver hockey circles.

Holos, a rookie from Sarpsborg, Norway, opened the season with the Avalanche before being sent to Lake Erie in late November. He was recalled by the Avalanche in mid-December but played limited minutes for coach Joe Sacco.

More than a few Avalanche fans thought Holos performed well when he did get ice time, and they wondered why Holos ended up back with the Monsters.

Chris Schneider / AP Monsters defenseman Jonas Holos, left, was with the Avalanche two weeks ago when he congratulated teammate Kevin Porter for scoring a goal against the Red Wings. Holos' demotion to Lake Erie has Avs fans scratching their heads.

One writer who covers the Avalanche stated in a blog: "Joe Sacco continues to make Jonas Holos the most unfairly treated player in the NHL -- the Sacco and Vanzetti of the league, if you will -- and Holos again will do his skating in Cleveland for the Lake Erie Monsters. Every fan attending the next Monsters game gets a 'Free Holos' bumper sticker."

The problem for Holos and his supporters, though, is that the defenseman is not exactly dominating AHL forwards. He had played in seven games for the Monsters since Jan. 15, and 14 overall, entering Thursday night's game at Hamilton.

"He's got work to do," one member of an AHL coaching staff said. "He's young [23] and has skills, but this is his first season in the states. He's got a lot to learn. I haven't seen anything yet that screams: 'He's got to get back to the NHL right away.' "

Holos said he is aware of the support in Denver.

"I've gotten some links from fans who want me up there," Holos said. "It's nice to see. At the same time, I can't worry about it. I've got a job to do in Cleveland."

Holos, who has appeared in 16 games for the Avalanche, said he knows he can play in the NHL. But he does not say so defiantly, as if he is being wronged.

"It's never fun to get sent down, but I wouldn't say I was upset about it -- more disappointed," he said. "I knew it was coming because I didn't play much up there for a long time. They said they sent me down because I needed to play."

Holos said if he is in Sacco's doghouse, it's news to the player.

"I think we have a great relationship," Holos said. "Nothing wrong there. He talks to me like he talks to any other player. There aren't any problems that I know of."

Mauldin locked in: AHL veteran forward Greg Mauldin did not need an attitude adjustment upon being loaned from Colorado to Lake Erie on Jan. 14. He returned from a two-month stint with the Avalanche grinding as hard as ever.

"Greg is a pro in so many aspects," Monsters coach David Quinn said. "He's a great guy to have because the young guys can certainly learn a lot from him."

Mauldin, who signed with the Colorado organization this summer, skated circles around the Toronto Marlies in a 4-2 victory Wednesday night at The Q. He had one goal and two assists and created plenty of other scoring chances for teammates.

The speedy Mauldin, 28, had appeared in 29 games for the Avalanche and 18 for the Monsters entering Thursday night. He began the season with Lake Erie.

Quinn said Mauldin will be back with Colorado "sooner or later."

"It doesn't do me any good to dwell on: Maybe I shouldn't be here, and all that stuff," Mauldin said. "The reason I got up there in the first place is, I had the right mental attitude and worked hard. That's what I'm going to continue to do."

Olver added: Rookie Mark Olver has been added to the AHL All-Star Classic, replacing teammate Ryan Stoa, who is currently with Colorado. Olver leads the Monsters in goals (18) and is second in points (29). He ranks second among AHL rookies in goals and sixth in points.

Tribe time: Indians manager Manny Acta, outfielder Michael Brantley, first baseman Matt LaPorta and reliever Tony Sipp are scheduled to join right fielder Shin-Soo Choo for a free autograph session Saturday night before the Monsters face the Hamilton Bulldogs at The Q.

Acta and his players will sign between 6:45 and 7:15 Saturday evening on the main concourse near Section 123. They also will participate in the ceremonial puck drop for the game, which is set to begin at 7:30.

Buckeyes' next two games are against struggling Big Ten rivals Northwestern and Michigan.

Associated PressOhio State's usual rotation includes three seniors, three freshmen and one junior: William Buford (44), who is having another fine season.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Ohio State men's basketball season has, so far, been everything a Buckeyes fan could hope for.

Ohio State, 21-0 and 8-0 in the Big Ten, is ranked first in the country by anyone with a shred of credibility.

The Buckeyes, of course, are No. 1 in the new ESPN.com power rankings. ESPN expects OSU to stay there for at least a while, as it comments: 

In a week when several big-time contenders went down, Ohio State did nothing but solidify its rightful place at the top of college hoops. The Buckeyes survived a tough road test at Illinois before comprehensively dominating the Big Ten's second-best team, Purdue, at home. Up this week are likely wins at Northwestern and versus Michigan. The OSU train doesn't seem likely to derail anytime soon.

The Buckeyes play at Northwestern (13-7, 3-6) on Saturday evening and host Michigan on Feb. 3. Michigan is 11-9, 1-6 before tonight's game at Michigan State and Sunday's home game against Iowa.

Plain Dealer Ohio State coverage includes Doug Lesmerises Ohio State Insider.

Pick and rolls

An Ohio State report from The Sports Xchange/CBSSports.com.

Freshman point guard Aaron Craft's major contributions on offense and defense, by Bob Baptist of the Columbus Dispatch.

Where freshman center Jared Sullinger stands in the Player of the Year race, as shown on a FoxSports.com photo gallery.

Senior guard David Lighty is nominated for the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award, by Bill Tilton for the News-Herald and Lorain Morning Journal.

A CBSSports.com video interview with Jared Sullinger.

Team says in a release that "Fisher will no longer be the head coach of the team." Titans announced the move within an hour of a report by SI.com that they were negotiating Fisher's departure.

Associated PressJeff Fisher had a 147-126 coaching record in 16 seasons with the Tennessee Titans/Houston Oilers.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a surprising move, the Tennessee Titans have parted ways with Jeff Fisher, who just completed his 16th full season as the NFL's longest-tenured coach. The team said in a release Thursday night that "Fisher will no longer be the head coach of the team." The Titans announced the move within an hour of a report by SI.com that they were negotiating Fisher's departure.

Though Fisher, 52, had been derided locally as "Coach .500" or "Coacho Ocho," he seemingly had just survived a battle with quarterback Vince Young. Adams decided to either release Young or trade him on Jan. 5. The owner announced two days later that he would be keeping Fisher.

Fisher and Young never really jelled in five seasons together after the Titans drafted the former Texas standout with the third overall pick in 2006 under orders from Adams. The relationship frayed even as Fisher publicly defended Young until Nov. 21 when the situation exploded.

Young tossed his shoulder pads and other equipment into the stands after an overtime loss in which the quarterback suffered a season-ending injury.

Running back Chris Johnson said Wednesday while practicing in Hawaii for the Pro Bowl he didn't think Fisher or Young could work together after "it hit the fan."

In the end, neither Fisher nor Young survived with the Titans.

Even though Adams announced he was sticking with Fisher for the final year of his contract the move meant Fisher would be coaching for his future in 2011. Fisher has repeatedly said he wanted to finish his career with the franchise, but the coach known for never losing his cool in public while hiding behind his sunglasses may have decided Adams' decision wasn't good enough.

A team spokesman did not immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press. Fisher did not answer a message left on his cell, and his agent also did not respond to messages from the AP.

More details could come out Friday when the team is expected to hold a news conference to discuss the first coaching change since the franchise relocated to Tennessee from Houston in 1997. One of the leading candidates to replace Fisher is Mike Munchak, the Titans offensive line coach. The Hall of Famer is a favorite of Adams.

A flurry of coaching changes didn't help Fisher's situation. He fired his defensive coordinator Chuck Cecil a week ago after giving him a contract for the 2011 season. Defensive line coach Jim Washburn decided last week to take the same job with Philadelphia and his departure was followed by running backs coach Craig Johnson, who signed with Minnesota as the Vikings quarterbacks coach.

Fisher has coached more NFL games for one franchise than all but six Hall of Famers: George Halas, Tom Landry, Don Shula, Chuck Noll, Curly Lambeau and Bud Grant. He ranks third among active coaches in career wins with a record of 147-126, behind only Bill Belichick (176) and Mike Shanahan (160), and he is 20th all-time in coaching victories.

Adams promoted Fisher from defensive coordinator to interim coach with six games left in the 1994 season after firing Jack Pardee. Adams removed the interim tag after that season and has stayed with Fisher longer than any other coach with the franchise the billionaire founded.

Fisher oversaw the team's relocation from Houston in which the Oilers played in four different stadiums between 1996 and 1999 before moving into their current home.

Since 1999, Tennessee ranks seventh in the NFL in winning percentage with a 110-82 record. The Titans also are tied for fourth with six playoff seasons since 1999, though a second straight miss this past season will drop the team down that list.

But the Titans haven't won a playoff game since beating Baltimore in a 2004 wild-card matchup. Tennessee lost a wild-card game in San Diego in 2007 and wasted the AFC's top seed in 2008.

Trades happen and don't happen in the NBA all the time, and rumors of trades swirl most around teams that need help. A handful of players on the Cavs' roster might attract interest from other teams.

View full sizeLonnie Timmons III l The Plain DealerJ.J. Hickson, with ball, has had an up-and-down season with the Cavaliers, but his favorable contract might make him trade bait for other NBA teams.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The last time Byron Scott saw Carmelo Anthony, the Cavaliers coach thought he'd see the talented forward again much sooner than tonight, when the Denver Nuggets visit The Q. 

As Anthony has been surrounded by melodrama for weeks about whether the free-agent-to-be will re-sign with the Nuggets or whether he wants only to play in the New York area, Scott felt certain that the next time he saw Anthony he'd be wearing a New Jersey Nets uniform. 

But New Jersey owner Mikhail Prokhorov pulled his Nets out of trade discussions, and suddenly Anthony is back to being a Nugget. For now. 

"That's how the league is," Scott said. "The Nets owner said he's done, and I guess he's done for the time being. We'll see what happens." 

Trades happen and don't happen in the NBA all the time, and rumors of trades swirl most around teams that need help. 

And a Cavaliers team in the midst of an 18-game losing streak, with 22 straight road losses, seven straight losses at home, and one loss from tying the franchise record for consecutive losses, is just the kind of team that needs help -- via trade or any other means. 

But do the Cavaliers have any tradable assets, and are they likely to make any moves before the NBA trade deadline Feb. 24? 

Only Cavaliers General Manager Chris Grant knows for sure. But a handful of players on the current roster could be valuable to dangle in front of other teams as the Cavaliers look to rebuild. That's in addition to the $14.5 million trade exception from the LeBron James deal they have until July 10 to use. Some options to consider:  

1. Young players with upside -- J.J. Hickson and Manny Harris 

Hickson has had an up-and-down season while adapting to Scott's system. He's clashed more than once with Scott, going in and out of the starting lineup. 

But Hickson also has a favorable contract for teams to absorb, earning $1.5 million this season and $2.4 million next season. Not to mention that he has flourished since moving to the starting center position 10 games ago, and has had five double doubles in his past nine games. He's averaging 11.1 points and 6.7 rebounds. 

Harris is a rookie with enough potential that Scott has started him in 10 games. And Harris has a minimum contract that lasts through next season. 

2. Attractive expiring contracts -- Anthony Parker and Jamario Moon 

Parker and Moon are in the final year of their contracts (Moon has a team option next season), with Parker earning $2.9 million this season and Moon earning $2.97 million. Parker is a steady defender, has a consistent outside shot and is a veteran presence. Teams are always looking for expiring contracts in trade-deadline deals. 

3. Proven veterans -- Antawn Jamison and Mo Williams 

Jamison is the Cavaliers' leading scorer at 17.1 points in 31.5 minutes per game. He's also 34 years old and has a monster contract that pays $13.4 million this season and $15.1 million next season. Any team that receives him would be saddled with paying that, but will receive a proven scorer. 

Williams' contract situation might be even less desirable, with two years (player options) remaining on his current deal. When he's played this season -- he's missed 12 games because of injuries -- he's averaged 13.6 points and 7.1 assists per game. 

As the trade deadline nears, the Cavaliers are likely offer their tradable players to teams that might offer help in return -- either in the form of players or draft picks. Just as Anthony has had to block out trade rumors, the Cavaliers will have to soldier on, no matter what, in the midst of their losing streak. 

"We see it just like anybody else does, and it's a topic of discussion," Parker said. "It comes with the business, and you've just got to learn how to block it out. Some players are probably more successful at doing it than others. But either way, you've got to deal with it."

Looking for players who would excel in a 4-3 defense. Also, personnel experts analyzing players at the Senior Bowl practices.

Associated PressNorth Carolina's Robert Quinn (42) sacks Duke quarterback Thaddeus Lewis (9).

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The NFL draft is still three months away.

That's not long enough to stop major publications from publishing mock drafts.

The Cleveland Browns, who are 14-34 in the last three seasons, obviously have a number of needs.

The Browns, barring a trade, own the sixth pick in the first round. Sports Illustrated's SI.com published a new mock draft, and in it, the Browns are projected to select North Carolina junior defensive end Robert Quinn.

Says SI.com:

Quinn is quite the story. He has overcome a brain tumor as a high school senior, posted a monster 11-sack sophomore season for the Tar Heels in 2009, and also sat out all of last year after being ruled ineligible for taking more than $5,600 worth of gifts and improper benefits from agents. But he's an undeniable talent and his pass-rush burst off the edge makes him a prime candidate for a defense that's switching to a 4-3 under new coordinator Dick Jauron.

Draw plays

A Pro Bowl Blog by Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas on clevelandbrowns.com.

A report on new defensive coordinator Dick Jauron and new special teams coordinator Chris Tabor, from The Sports Xchange/Orange and Brown Report on Scout.com.

The Browns and the 31 other NFL teams are scouting the Senior Bowl practices this week. Wes Bunting of the National Football Post has some Senior Bowl impressions; players at the Senior Bowl whom the Browns have apparently shown some interest in, by Chris Pokorny of the Dawgs By Nature blog; positional rankings of defensive players at the Senior Bowl, by Charlie Bernstein for the Orange and Brown Report on Scout.com.

Rodriquez Sherman has 15 points and Justin Greene scores 12 for the Golden Flashes in the victory at Muncie, Ind.

View full sizeRandal Holt

Rodriquez Sherman added 15 points for the Golden Flashes while Justin Greene scored 12.

The Cardinals (13-6, 5-1 MAC West) kept it close before the break on 45.5 percent shooting from the field, but they fell off to 30 percent in the second half as Kent State pulled away.

Malik Perry and Chris Bond led Ball State with 12 points each while Randy Davis and Jauwan Scaife added 10 apiece.

Kent State has won 18 straight games over MAC West opponents.

With starting center Aaron Pogue in foul trouble much of the game, Ludavic Ndaye is called to duty and comes through for the Vikings with a solid effort.

View full sizeNorris Cole had 22 points on Thursday for the Vikings.

CHICAGO — Sometimes, even on a night when it looks like a struggle, the better team wins.

That was Cleveland State on Thursday night as the Vikings weathered a hot first-half shooting effort by Illinois-Chicago, then used a gift-wrapped spurt early in the second half to finally take a lead and roll to a 63-49 victory over the Flames in the UIC Pavilion.

Key to the run was an intentional foul by the Flames that allowed the Vikings to start padding a tenuous lead, which was inspired by offensive play from 6-9 freshman Ludavic Ndaye.

With starting center Aaron Pogue in foul trouble much of the game, the spindly Ndaye was called to duty. The most he had played this season was seven minutes. But against the Flames the product of Montreal was on the court for 14 minutes and finished with seven points, three rebounds and three blocked shots. That backed up a 22-point night from guard Norris Cole and 13 from Jeremy Montgomery.

Ndaye made his first shot, a 15-footer off the baseline, and the game seemed to flow smoothly for him from there.

"I'm starting to understand my role," Ndaye said. "Then after my first shot, I was able to exhale and play."

Four of his points came on a layup and dunk as CSU turned a 39-37 deficit into a 47-40 lead. The Vikings never trailed after that and improved their record to 19-3, 8-2, while the Flames remained winless in league play (5-16, 0-9).

"He was key," CSU head coach Gary Waters said. "Very, very strong quality minutes, rebounding and playing defense."

While the Flames entered the game winless since Dec. 18, the last notch on their belt was a big one, 57-54 over Illinois. The Flames had their way early, working inside for layups and short-corner jumpers for an 8-3 lead while the Vikings were misfiring from the field, missing six of their first seven shots. The Vikings didn't make their second field goal until 14:19 to play. But by the time they scored again on a Joe Latas stickback, then got a steal and layup from Cole, they were right back in it, trailing, 12-10.

But it wasn't long before things went sour again for the Vikings. Cole picked up his second foul with 9:57 to play and had to sit. The Flames promptly went on a 7-0 run for a 21-12 lead that had Waters calling his first timeout of the game. When a few CSU miscues followed, Waters had seen enough and sent Cole back into the contest.

In short order he scored six straight to get the Vikings within 23-21 with 3:50 to go. CSU's pressure stepped up after that as the Vikings forced four of UIC's 10 turnovers inside the final 3:30 of the half. Playing strong to the final whistle, the Vikings were able to keep the margin within one possession, 31-29, even as the Flames were shooting 50 percent from the field and had a slim 15-14 edge in rebounds.

With Cole already in the books for 11 of his points, and with a rare seven minutes of first-half rest, the final 20 minutes looked to have CSU's name on it. Defensively CSU held the Flames to 26.9 percent the second half. The rest was primarily Ndaye. His layup to started a 10-3 second-half run to give CSU the lead for good, then anchored the spurt with a dunk for a 47-40 advantage the Flames never overcame.

The road trip ends for the Vikings, 4 p.m. Saturday vs. Loyola.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: ealexander@plaind.com, 216-999-4253