Jackson looked more like a tight end than a guard, but his lankiness didn't stop him from being a key blocker for quarterback Brian Sipe and running backs such as Mike Pruitt, Greg Pruitt and Cleo Miller.

David I. Andersen, Plain DealerBrowns guard Robert E. Jackson (68) lunges to throw a block for quarterback Brian Sipe.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A countdown of the top 100 players in Cleveland Browns history. Players must have spent at least four seasons with the Browns. The ranking is based only on players' careers with the Browns.

No. 99, ROBERT E. JACKSON, guard, 1975-85.

Robert E. Jackson, standing 6-5 but maybe 260 pounds at most, looked more like a tight end than a guard, but his lankiness didn't stop him from being a key blocker for quarterback Brian Sipe and running backs such as Mike Pruitt, Greg Pruitt and Cleo Miller.

Jackson, from Duke, wasn't picked in the 1975 NFL draft. He made the Browns as a free agent, though, making a strong impression on coach Forrest Gregg, who knew something about offensive line play. Gregg, who played the first 14 of his 15 NFL seasons (1956, 1958-71) with the Green Bay Packers, is considered one of the greatest offensive tackles in league history.

Robert E. Jackson -- not to be confused with a Browns' linebacker from the same era, Robert L. Jackson -- started seven games during his rookie season; 118 of the Browns' 133 games over the next nine seasons; and one game during his final season, 1985, when he played in 14 other games as a backup.

Thus, in Jackson's final season, Gary Danielson and rookie Bernie Kosar were the Browns' quarterbacks. Mike Phipps had been the starter during most of Jackson's rookie campaign, and he still held the job until he was injured in the 1976 season opener, prompting Sipe's takeover.

Despite his lack of bulk, Jackson was seldom overpowered by heftier defensive linemen, using leverage, intelligence and technique to his advantage. He was also athletic. The Browns utilized Jackson as a blocker on the kickoff return team. In four straight seasons (1976-79), a kickoff found its way to Jackson. He made returns of 16, 21, 19 and 18 yards.

The Browns' passing attack during Jackson's time was one of the NFL's most sophisticated, with Sipe utilizing a variety of receivers -- including the backs and, beginning in 1978, a revolutionary tight end, Ozzie Newsome.

Jackson was an excellent fit for what was often a dynamic and productive offense.

Previously: No. 100.

Video: Right guard Robert E. Jackson (68) and the offensive line key a first-quarter drive capped by Brian Sipe's 23-yard touchdown pass to Dave Logan during the Browns' 26-7 Monday Night Football win over the Dallas Cowboys on Sept. 24, 1979 in Cleveland.

Talking to myself about the Browns and Pat Shurmur, and how the coach at least deserves a chance to show the team has improved.

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, The Plain DealerHow much time will coach Pat Shurmur receive to help the Browns succeed? Don't worry about it.

BEREA, Ohio -- Watching training camp in Berea can get you talking to yourself about the Browns . . .

Question: Is Pat Shurmur on the spot?

Answer: Would any rookie coach who had a 4-12 record and lost nine of 10 games to end the season be on the spot?

Q: You know what I mean . . . with the team being sold, isn't there heat on him?

A: Any rookie coach with a 4-12 record in a very rocky season would have to show real improvement in his second year. That's the nature of the NFL.

Q: What do you think Jimmy Haslam will do?

A: Who knows what the new ownership group will do? Assuming Joe Banner is the new CEO, the former Philadelphia Eagles president worked with current Browns General Manager Tom Heckert. Shurmur was an assistant with the Eagles when Banner was the boss. So these men know each other.

Q: So he's not on the spot?

A: I feel like this is a really bad audition tape for talk radio. Who gets fired next? When is it going to happen? If he doesn't win the next game, should we fire everyone? Blah, blah, blah.

Q: Isn't that what we do around here?

A: Good point. But let's think about this for a moment. Shurmur and the front office knew there were problems in terms of talent and organization. They had a rookie head coach calling plays and serving as his own offensive coordinator. It was a season where labor problems wiped out all of the spring practices and minicamps, and they were trying to install a new offense and a new defense.

Q: Are you really going to use the labor problems as an excuse for last year?

A: It was a factor. But there's a reason the Browns added former Vikings head coach Brad Childress as the offensive coordinator. And they hired Nolan Cromwell as a special assistant on offense. Shurmur knew he needed help, and he went out and found it. He was a coach who looked in the mirror and admitted: "It's not just the players, I've got to do a better job, too."

Q: So he could be in trouble?

A: Even if Randy Lerner kept the team, Shurmur would have to put a much better product on the field. Remember that team President Mike Holmgren had said several times: "I expect us to take a pretty good jump this year. I would not be particularly happy if we had the same record or close to it."

Q: Are you upbeat about Shurmur?

A: I like the additions to the coaching staff, and that he is generally a positive guy. I like how he does have an offensive background and has worked with successful quarterbacks in the past. I like the last draft.

Q: So how many games do the Browns have to win this season for the coaches to keep their jobs?

A: Who knows? It does make no sense to fire a coach who is making progress with a young team. A veteran NFL executive such as Banner would know that.

Q: Will the Browns be better?

A: Better than the 1-15 or 2-14 predictions? Yes. Better than 4-12 last year? Yes. Will they make the playoffs? No. I have them at 6-10, just because I've been picking them at 6-10 every year since 2008 . . . and they have yet to get there. But I do expect significant progress and a more watchable team.

Q: You said 6-10, that's all?

A: It won't be easy for Shurmur because the schedule is rated as high as the third toughest in the NFL. He has a rookie quarterback in Brandon Weeden, and rookie quarterbacks usually struggle. Most rookie quarterbacks also take over bad offenses on losing teams.

Q: Isn't that the case with Weeden?

A: Of course. But I know the coaching staff believes he can catch on quick. Last season, the Browns led the league in dropped passes, eight more than any other team, according to the Football Outsiders 2012 Almanac. They were tied for last in yards after catch (4.3) with Miami. Their running game was ranked 31st. Given all that, you'd rather have rookies picked in the first round starting at quarterback (Weeden) and running back (Trent Richardson).

Q: Why are you so grumpy about these questions?

A: Because I hate talking about football coaches losing their jobs before they even lose a preseason game! And because Shurmur is the fifth head coach (sixth, if you count interim Terry Robiskie) since 1999. And because since 1999, the Browns have a .327 winning percentage (68-140).

Q: Your point?

A: How about this? They are 4-12, 5-11, 5-11, 4-12 in the past four years. Those records came with three different head coaches: Romeo Crennel, Eric Mangini and Shurmur. With the Browns, it almost always seems to be about who will/won't get fired . . . and I'm just tired of that.

Q: So what should we do?

A: The same thing Jimmy Haslam and Joe Banner should do. Watch the games. See if things are getting better. Give the coaching staff a chance rather than sit around in the middle of summer and talk about who will get fired next.

Indians are 10 games under .500 in their last 58 games. MLB non-waiver trade deadline is 4 p.m. Tuesday. More Indians story links.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerDerek Lowe, who will start for the Indians on Tuesday night in Kansas City, has allowed 56 runs -- 52 earned -- in 58 innings over his last 11 starts.

There are more teams that are buyers out there then ever before thanks to the second wild card. It is clearly a sellers market. The amount of high quality bats available is a very shallow pool. One of the guys who many teams targeted, Carlos Quentin, just re-upped with the San Diego Padres on a three-year deal, taking him off the market. The Red Sox already dealt Kevin Youkilis to the White Sox. The guy who continued to get the most attention from scouts is San Diego’s Chase Headley, and he isn’t nearly the player Choo is.

With a year and two months left on his deal, Choo’s stock may never be higher. He isn’t just a rental player.

Now Browns defensive end Frostee Rucker made a name for himself in Cincinnati. Now, he is trying to establish himself in Cleveland.

View full sizeAPCleveland Browns defensive end Frostee Rucker.

Berea, Ohio -- Unlike most little kids growing up in America, Frostee Rucker dreaded Christmas.

Along with the holiday came all the snowman jokes prompted by his unusual -- but given -- first name.

"I hated it growing up," the Browns' new right defensive end said after practice on Monday. "Around Christmas time, it was always a drag.

"Then one night, I grew, and all the jokes stopped."

Indeed, the main free-agent addition to the Browns' defense is no joke. The team is hoping he will help shore up the problematic run defense. He's no stranger to the AFC North, having played with the Cincinnati Bengals the past six seasons. So it's not exactly like he's trying to make a name for himself here.

But there is a story -- and a good one -- behind his first name.

"My father was in the military," Rucker said. "He used to be a DJ in the military, and they used to call him 'DJ Frost' because he was 'cold on the spins.' This is what he told me. He said no matter what I named you, they were going to call you 'Little Frost' or 'Ice Cold' or whatever. So he named me Frostee."

His father's name was Len, which is Rucker's middle name. But his father legally changed his first name to Frostee, as well.

"I'm technically a junior," Rucker said, laughing. "Or am I the senior because I was first? I don't know. . . . One day, if I have a kid, I'm going to name him Frostee, too. . . . It's working for me."

It's working for the Browns, too, as coach Pat Shurmur has been impressed with the 6-3, 280-pound newcomer.

"Frostee can pass rush, but he's also thick enough to play the run," Shurmur said after practice Monday. "We feel Frostee and Juqua [Parker], as veteran defensive ends, will help man that right end spot.

"Frostee put on a little weight, based on what I saw in the spring. And it's good weight. He's moving around well. We liked him when we played him last year. That's why we brought him in here. We feel he can play on all three downs."

Rucker knows what he's getting into, and he's looking forward to taking more of a leadership role than he had with Cincinnati.

"Being in the AFC North where it's pretty much a ground-and-pound division, you have to be very tough and be able to play in November and December," Rucker said. "That's what I want to bring. I want to bring a little leadership. I just want to be the guy. . . . When you become that guy, you can have the confidence, and people can see that as you grow and mature."

He said he has no animosity toward the Bengals.

"They gave me six blessed years there," he said. "Without me being there for six years, I wouldn't be here."

Rucker describes himself as a hard worker and considers himself better against the run. His plan for helping improve the Browns' run defense is equally straightforward.

"I'm not really going to call myself a savior or something like that," he said. "I just want to be able to play my ball. Statistically, it's shown that when I'm in the division, doing what I do, I make my plays. That's what they were lacking last year on that side. The type of plays that teams run, you have to be in the perfect fit. That's what I'm here to do. I'm just here to do my job and bring someone along with me every time.

"We just really need to concentrate on being fundamentally sound, everyone being gap sound. The coaches are really helping on those things now. Everyone is getting it. Last year, it was unfortunate that when all the coaches came together, there were no OTAs or minicamp, so they were a little bit behind. But with the team defense they did, they still finished 10th overall. So that was really special and a big accomplishment.

"Now when we have time to have OTAs and minicamp and everyone can get familiar with playing the 4-3 from switching from a 3-4 and all those things, the sky's the limit for this group. Everyone's being accountable. That's the best thing. Be accountable and play gap-sound football, and we should be all right."

On Twitter: @pdcavsinsider

After a late-race charge falls short, Margot Shumway and Sarah Trowbridge have a last shot at reaching the finals.

View full sizeArmando Franca, Associated PressMargot Shumway, left, and Sarah Trowbridge finished third in their heat in double sculls on Monday, but have one last chance to reach the finals.

Dorney, England -- Julia Shumway struggled to hold back prideful tears as her daughter Margot began her second Olympics on Monday.

Minutes later, her screams and cheers were as loud as any heard in the packed stands at Dorney Lake, where Margot and rowing partner, Sarah Trowbridge, surged through choppy water in a double-sculls heat race at the London Olympics.

A conservative start gave way to a steady push when the American duo surged into fourth, then third, in the five- boat race. They needed to finish second to reach Friday's final.

Similar to the way Monday's race unfolded, the spring and summer have seen a wide range of emotions for the Shumways, of Westlake. While Margot trained for her second and final Olympics, Julia has fought cancer, and found the strength for this journey perfectly timed between chemotherapy treatments.

The two women with much in common and a powerful bond were a moving sight after the race. Margot hugged her mom and helped her walk tenderly outside a bumpy Olympic family area.

There was no sign on Margot's face of the disappointment she might have felt after she and Trowbridge placed third. Rather, Margot voiced the same kind of determination Julia displayed by crossing the Atlantic to see, as the title of her online blog reads, "Margot Row for Gold!"

Margot and Trowbridge are among six non-qualifying boats that will compete for the last two spots in the finals today in a second-chance race, known as a repechage.

"I think it's a good learning experience for us. We're going to take ourselves to task tomorrow and try to get ourselves in the 'A' final. We're going to put our heads down and race our guts out," Margot said Monday.

Shumway and Trowbridge took the glass half-full view of racing repechage.

"It's really good for us to get another race under our belt, and we're excited and ready to make that next jump," Trowbridge said.

The veteran pair appeared in good position Monday after avoiding the temptation to come out paddles blazing when the pack got off quickly.

They needed to make one more push and had plans to do so, but second-place Poland appeared to catch them off guard, responding with their own surge 600 meters from the finish. The Poles sustained the pace, preventing the Americans from regaining the momentum.

Shumway and Trowbridge finished in 6:55.25 and were 4.40 seconds behind runner-up Poland, and 6.45 seconds back of winner Australia. The second-third margin was somewhat deceiving because Shumway and Trowbridge let up at the end, preferring to save energy for repechage.

Julia said she, too, saved some of her voice for the remainder of the regatta, and she choked up at the thought of watching what probably will be Margot's last races. Margot, who placed fifth in quadruple sculls in 2008, plans to retire. Her 33rd birthday is Thursday.

"It's been a long career and it's just a privilege for her to be here, and we're just delighted to be here watching her," Julia said. "We want her to have her best performance and feel proud of herself when she's off the water. I think they had an awesome performance today."

Margot said she was thrilled having her mother, her father, John, and brothers Nate and Tom at the race. After visiting with her mother, Margot said simply, "I'm psyched."

Their coach, Matt Madigan, saw the impact.

"[Julia] is a fighter and it's really motivational for me to see her here, and it's great the girls can spend a little time with her today," he said.

Julia scoffed at any notion she might be an inspiration to Margot, saying the rest of the family is equally inspirational.

"She and I are very close, but she's got inspiration all around her," Julia said.

She then displayed a snappy wit when asked about Margot's best traits.

"I think she looks a lot like me," she said, smiling.

Julia also noted that Margot has displayed resilience throughout a career that has had numerous highs and lows, and that bodes well for the second chance to come.

"You have to be shake it off and get up and give it another try and say, 'Because I love doing it and I know it's in me,' " Julia said.

The Tribe has a three-game series in Kansas City starting Tuesday.

View full sizeElaine Thompson, Associated PressKansas City's Mike Moustakas is hitting .404 against the Indians this year.

Where: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Mo.

When: Tuesday  through Thursday.

TV/radio: SportsTime Ohio; WTAM AM/1100.

Series: The Indians lead the Royals, 5-4. Overall, the Indians lead, 300-282.

Pitching matchups: RHP Derek Lowe (8-9, 5.09) vs. RHP Luke Hochevar (6-9, 5.26) tonight at 8:10; RHP Zach McAllister (4-2, 3.18) vs. RHP Luis Mendoza (4-7, 4.47) Wednesday at 8:10 p.m. and RHP Josh Tomlin (5-8, 5.87) vs. RHP Jeremy Guthrie (0-2, 10.00) Thursday at 8:10 p.m.

Indians update: Coming off three-game sweep by the Twins. The Indians are hitting .278 as a team against the Royals with Jason Kipnis leading the way at .355 (11-for-31) with two homers and seven RBI. Lowe is 2-0 and Tomlin 1-1 against KC this year.

Royals update: They have lost five straight, including the last four in a sweep by Seattle. The Royals are hitting .298 against the Tribe with Brayan Pena .556 (10-for-18) and Mike Moustakas .404 (13-for-32) with one homer and 10 RBI leading the way. Hochevar and Mendoza are 1-1 against the Indians this year.

Injuries: Indians -- 3B Lonnie Chisenhall (right forearm), LHP Rafael Perez (left side), CF Grady Sizemore (back) and RHP Carlos Carrasco (right elbow) are on the disabled list. Royals: LHP Danny Duffy (left elbow), RHP Felipe Paulino (right elbow), RHP Joakim Soria (right elbow) and RHP Blake Wood (right elbow) are on the disabled list. 3B Moustakas (right knee) is day to day.

Next for Indians: A three-game series starts Friday at Comerica Park against the Tigers.

The pads have helped Browns rookie James-Michael Johnson separate himself from other young linebackers in training camp.

View full sizeJohn Kuntz, The Plain DealerBrowns special teams coordinator Chris Tabor talks with rookie linebacker James-Michael Johnson at minicamp in June.

Berea, Ohio -- Rookie linebacker James-Michael Johnson was thrilled when the Browns put on pads Sunday.

"I like playing football in pads," the team's fourth-round draft choice said after practice Monday. "I feel more comfortable in pads than out of pads."

He didn't realize it, but Browns coach Pat Shurmur said the pads have helped Johnson create a little separation between himself and the other young linebackers in training camp. Of course, the fact that Johnson had two interceptions and stood up running back Brandon Jackson on a goal-line stop during Monday morning's practice also might have had something to do with that.

"He had a couple of interceptions and looked good on the goal line," Shurmur said. "The pads tend to separate the linebackers, and he's had a couple of good days."

Johnson finished practice by running the hill next to the practice field and then catching some balls off the Jugs machine. But he was pleased the coach took note of his performance in the team portion of the drills.

"As a linebacker, that's what you want to do," he said. "I'm just trying to do my best, show the coaches I can comprehend the defense. I can go out and run the defense if they need me to run it, play whatever position they need me to play."

Johnson, a Nevada product who finished his four-year career third in school history in forced fumbles and sixth in tackles, can play any of the linebacker spots and could even start when Scott Fujita is suspended three games for his alleged role in the New Orleans Saints bounty program, a role he has repeatedly denied. Johnson, who goes by the nickname "JMJ," also is expected to play special teams. He knows his versatility can make him valuable in Shurmur's system, but he says he's not concerned about starting or coming off the bench.

"I'm not really worried about that," said Johnson, adding that Fujita has been a tremendous help to him on and off the field. "I'm just trying to come out and play where they need me to play. If they need me to get the water, I'll get the water. If they need me to strap up helmets, I'll do that, too. I'm just out here trying to play."

Cameron's reps: Second-year tight end Jordan Cameron is getting some reps with the starters because of Evan Moore's undisclosed injury, and he has taken full advantage of them. Monday, he caught a touchdown pass from Colt McCoy in goal-line drills and another clutch pass over the middle in a two-minute drill that led to a field goal.

"I worked pretty hard in the off-season to get more explosive and more powerful," said Cameron. "I want to be known as a good football player, not just a good athlete."

Shurmur said of Cameron, who played sparingly as a reserve at Southern Cal: "You have to practice [this game] and play it to improve at it. He didn't play a lot of football in college but showed us the skill and ability to be a good receiver. Now, when you line up at the end of the line of scrimmage, you have got to get used to controlling your body in blocking situations, you have to learn how to release when somebody's basically tackling you, those types of things. Once he gets a feel for the game, his development will [take off]."

Gordon moving up: In three-receiver sets, including during Monday's two-minute drill, Shurmur went with the trio of Mohamed Massaquoi and rookie Josh Gordon on the outside, and Greg Little in the slot.

"I think that's one way for us to get three of what we consider our better receivers on the field," said Shurmur. "We do use a lot of three wide-receiver sets, and today, because we were working two-minute, it probably showed up that way quite a bit. That's a good lineup."

Shurmur cautioned that although Gordon's natural athletic ability is evident, it'll take some time. "He's got a long way to go in terms of learning it and playing receiver at this level," said Shurmur. "He's made great progress to this point, but he's got a long way to go, but he's eager, and he's smart. He's really football smart, and I think that shows."

Cornerback competition: The young cornerbacks behind 11th-year pro Sheldon Brown have been catching Shurmur's eye.

"Sheldon is starting right now, but I really like some of the development that I've seen," he said. "Buster [Skrine] is a gritty, gritty guy. Dimitri Patterson challenges, my goodness, and you could see those guys playing outside for sure, and then [seventh-round pick] Trevin Wade. I think he's got a feel for playing the game at corner."

Brown said his mind-set is not different.

"I'm headed into this season like I've headed into every season," Brown said. "I don't know where my career got skewed to some people. I think they kinda think I just showed up and they gave me my job for 11 years. I don't understand where that came from, so I approach every year the same. I guess they're just going to give my job to me again or give it away or however the media wants to see that. Naw, I come to work, and I let them make the business decisions. That's how I approach the season."

Day off: The Browns will have today off, per rules of the new collective bargaining agreement, which stipulates an off day at least after every fifth practice. But Shurmur cautioned it's no day at the beach.

"It's an off day, but it's not a vacation day," said Shurmur. "I'd anticipate that they are going to take care of their bodies and use it in a way where they'll prepare themselves for practice on Wednesday. . . . I've talked about our guys being very professional, and I anticipate that they'll use their time wisely."

Benjamin's speed: Shurmur said he's eager to unleash speedy rookie receiver Travis Benjamin (5-10, 175) in games. "He's really established himself," said Shurmur. "When you look at him, you say, 'Well OK, how is he going to be in traffic?' But he's distinguished himself these last couple days catching the ball in traffic. There were a couple of pivots, in routes, where he's working back to the ball where the corner was hanging on his back, and he reached out in a physical way and caught the football with his hands. I hope his development continues."

-- Mary Kay Cabot

With some high-profile men's swimmers struggling, Grevers and Thoman extend the USA's dominance in the backstroke.

View full sizeLee Jin-man, Associated PressMatt Grevers, left, and Nick Thoman gave the USA its first 1-2 swimming finish of these Olympics in the 100-meter backstroke.

London -- Since Ryan Lochte and Michael Phelps didn't do it, Matt Grevers and Nick Thoman did.

The first one-two finish in the pool for Team USA at the London Olympics came courtesy of Grevers' Olympic record in the 100-meter backstroke Monday night and the second-place finish by a Cincinnati native whose grandfather once held the world record in the event. Grevers finished in 52.16 seconds and Thoman in 52.92.

So relax. Lochte finished fourth in the 200 freestyle on Monday, after Phelps had finished fourth to Lochte's gold in the 400 IM Saturday. And Phelps only qualified fourth for Tuesday's 200 butterfly. The studs are scuffling a bit, though 17-year-old phenom Missy Franklin grabbed her first gold in the women's 100 backstroke. There are some other Americans in the water who know how to get to the wall, and how to talk the talk, too.

Right before they jumped in the water for the evening final, Thoman's coach told them, "One-two," and it fit, because Grevers and Thoman had been telling each other the same thing.

"It was open talk," Grevers said. "We didn't feel like we were jinxing it or anything."

Thoman's silver medal was the third medal for Ohio athletes, joining the silver in team archery for Massillon native Jacob Wukie and the silver for Columbus-area diver Abby Johnston in synchronized 3-meter. The double-dip also helped the United States tie China for first in the overall medal count, at 17, though China leads, 9-5, in golds.

Team USA had three gold-silver finishes in swimming in both 2000 and 2004 and two in 2008, and that this came in the 100 backstroke was no surprise. This was the fifth straight Olympic gold for Team USA in the event, and in 2008, Grevers took silver to Aaron Peirsol's gold. Both Grevers and Thoman said the typical short-course training in the United States for high school and college swimmers, which requires more turns, makes U.S. swimmers experts at the underwater part of the swim that really pays off in the backstroke. And that put the pair on the podium together.

"When you do anything, it's always better with a friend," Grevers said. "It's a cooler story if you get to share it with someone."

Thoman almost wasn't around to do it. After finishing fifth and sixth in the two backstroke events at the 2008 Olympic Trials, he figured he would retire and move on with his life. But while swimming at one more national meet because he had a free plane ticket, he almost broke a world record.

"My coach was like, 'Well, you've got to keep swimming now,' " Thoman said. "And I was like, 'God, I've got to keep swimming now.' "

Thoman grew up in Cincinnati in the Cincinnati Marlins swim club that has sent 18 swimmers to the U.S. Olympic team in the past 44 years.

"There's a great history of elite swimmers from Ohio," said Thoman, the only Ohio swimmer on Team USA. "In the Marlins program, we always kind of had a pipeline to the national team, so it was great to keep up that tradition."

The U.S. tradition in the 100 backstroke lives on as well.

Adam Scott has no shot. OK, maybe that's a little harsh. Let's say the dashing Australian has little chance of repeating as the winner of the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational, which begins Thursday on the South Course at Firestone Country Club. Scott's heart-wrenching collapse on the final four holes of the British Open has nothing to do with it. History...

JOHN KUNTZ/PLAIN DEALERAdam Scott hits out of a bunker to the second green where he scored a birdie during the final round of the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club in Akron on August 7, 2011.

Adam Scott has no shot.

OK, maybe that's a little harsh.

Let's say the dashing Australian has little chance of repeating as the winner of the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational, which begins Thursday on the South Course at Firestone Country Club.

Scott's heart-wrenching collapse on the final four holes of the British Open has nothing to do with it.

History does.

Winning at Firestone more than once is not an easy task. Repeat winners emerge from the South Course with a futility similar to repeat winners in golf's majors, which now stands at 16 events in a row.

Professional tournaments on the South Course began about the time Dwight Eisenhower had a putting green installed on the front lawn of the White House.

Since then:

•Only nine men have been able to win more than once on the South Course. That's nine men in 57 years of professional events.

•Only four men -- three of them Hall-of-Famers and the other a sure-fire pick -- have won more than twice. That's four men in 71 professional events since 1954. Their names are Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Gary Player and Arnold Palmer.

•Only four men have been able to win on the South Course in successive years.

The last repeat winner is Tiger Woods -- there's a stunner -- who won in 2009 after winning in 2007.

Woods also won in 2005 and 2006, joining Nicklaus (1962-63 World Series of Golf), Al Geiberger (1965 American Golf Classic and 1966 PGA Championship) and Jay Hebert (1960 PGA Championship and 1961 American Golf Classic) as the only players able to string together back-to-back wins.

Before Woods' run of three straight, the last repeat winner on the South Course was Greg Norman, who is now playing in selected Champions (nee Senior) events. Norman won the World Series of Golf in 1995 and 1997.

Woods and Nicklaus, who have won a combined 32 majors, have won seven times each on the South Course. The only others to win more than twice are icons Palmer and Player, with three wins apiece.

That leaves a cart bag full of one-time winners.

Player, who won the old World Series of Golf in 1965, 1968 and 1972, has several theories -- ranging from the depth of the field to the latest technology -- as to why it has been so difficult to win multiple times.

The nine-time major winner was one of several players who suggested the depth of the talent pool at Firestone is deeper than most, this side of Augusta.

"I think that when you look at the current state of golf, repeating in any tournament is very difficult," he said via email. "I always enjoyed Firestone and have very fond memories of the tournament and its fans. Despite it being a very enjoyable tournament, the atmosphere is a lot more competitive because of the WGC field. Many of the best players in the world are there. Anyone can win."

Former Clevelander Jason Dufner had walked the South Course many times as a youngster but never played it until he checked out about five holes on Monday. Still, as a strong student of the game and its history in Akron, he feels the South Course plays no favorites.

"The strength of the field makes it more difficult," he said. "And, I think it's a testament to the golf course. It doesn't really fit any one style. You've seen a lot of different styles win here . . . straight-ball hitters, great putters, great chippers, power-game guys."

David Toms, preparing to play in his 11th event at Firestone, agreed with Dufner that the South Course is an equal opportunity venue.

"I am not surprised by the [few] number of winners," said Toms, one of the early arrivals in Akron. "It is a good golf course when it is playing firm and fast and it suits everyone. You still have to get it in the fairway. If anything it might favor the longer hitter when it's wet because it is such a long course [7,400 yards]. I know I struggle here when it's wet. But, I don't think it favors one particular style, which is why you've had so many different winners."

The South Course does not produce what you would call one-hit wonders, either. It produces quality champions. Of the 49 men who have walked off the South with the hardware and hefty check, 29 of them went on to win -- or had already won -- at least one major and had multiple Tour wins. The same with many of the one-time winners.

"Look at the players with the most success at Firestone," said Nick Faldo, the winner of six majors and now a television analyst. "Those four players [Nicklaus, Woods, Palmer, Player] are among the best of all time, the elite. So, I really don't know if it's all that much of a surprise that there are so few repeaters."

Faldo also points to the depth of the field. Of the 78 players set to tee it up on Thursday, 49 of them are regarded as the best in the world via the Official World Golf Rankings.

"You probably have 20-25 fellows who feel they have a good chance at winning," he said. "And, it is one of the few times, outside the majors, where you have the top 50 players in the world looking at one another. It's not always that way, is it? That has to decrease everyone's odds."

Said Toms, "The more great players you have, the harder it is to win."

Stonewater pro Jimmy Hanlin has played Firestone numerous times and knows what it takes to win.

"You just can't go to the South Course and whiff it around," he said. "You just can't go there and have a good putting week and win. You can't go there and just hit it well off the tee. That's not enough to win. You need to do everything well. You are not going to win there with your 'B' game."

Player feels the calendar also might have something to do with the lack of repeaters. Sandwiched between the final two majors of the season -- the British and the PGA Championship -- Bridgestone adds another week of mental strain. Another week of preparing to play one of the toughest courses on the PGA Tour.

"I definitely think having Bridgestone taking place in the two weeks between the Open and the PGA adds to the difficulty of repeating," he said. "More pressure is placed on the players. Everyone wants to go into the final major of the year with confidence of winning the week before."

Player also feels the advancement in equipment technology has unfairly evened the playing field.

"The equipment is so forgiving," he wrote. "It is so hard to have somebody with more talent come through. For example, if you went back to hickory shafts, the players with the most talent could win more often because the variety of shots would mean more. Today, this isn't the case because of the equipment."

Everyone is playing with the same equipment. Some just use it better than others. Those are the guys whose names you'll find on the South Course winners list.

Highlights include Indians at Kansas City and extensive Olympics coverage.

Chuck Crow, The Plain DealerSecond baseman Jason Kipnis and the Indians play tonight at 8:10 in Kansas City against the Royals. The game will be televised on SportsTime Ohio and broadcast on WTAM/1100-AM.

CLEVELAND, Ohio

Today's TV and radio sports listings

BASEBALL

7 p.m. AKRON AEROS at Portland, AM/1350

7 p.m. LAKE COUNTY CAPTAINS at West Michigan, AM/1330

8 p.m. L.A. Angels at Texas, MLB Network

8 p.m. Pittsburgh at Chicago Cubs, WGN

8:10 p.m. INDIANS at Kansas City, SportsTime Ohio; AM/1100

OLYMPICS

3 a.m. Boxing, CNBC

4 a.m. Men's basketball, China vs. Russia, NBCSN

5:45 a.m. Equestrian, NBCSN

7 a.m. Tennis, Bravo

8:15 a.m. Men's water polo, Hungary vs. Montenegro, NBCSN

9 a.m. Swimming; men's basketball; beach volleyball;

men's volleyball; boxing; tennis (tape), Telemundo

9:15 a.m. Equestrian, NBCSN

9:30 a.m. Women's soccer, Canada vs. Sweden, MSNBC

10 a.m. Canoe/kayak, WKYC

10:30 a.m. Swimming, WKYC

10:35 a.m. Men's beach volleyball, NBCSN

11:15 a.m. Rowing, WKYC

11:15 a.m. Women's beach volleyball, NBCSN

12:15 p.m. Women's soccer, U.S. vs. North Korea, NBCSN

12:15 p.m. Women's soccer, France vs. Colombia, MSNBC

1:30 p.m. Swimming, WKYC

2 p.m. Rowing, WKYC

2 p.m. Boxing, NBCSN

2 p.m. Women's field hockey, U.S. vs. Argentina, MSNBC

2:30 p.m. Men's water polo, U.S. vs. Romania, WKYC

3 p.m. Men's basketball, France vs. Argentina, NBCSN

3:30 p.m. Women's soccer, Britain vs. Brazil, MSNBC

4 p.m. Men's beach volleyball, WKYC

4:30 p.m. Table tennis, MSNBC

4:45 p.m. Shooting, NBCSN

5 p.m. Boxing, CNBC

5 p.m. Archery, MSNBC

5:15 p.m. Men's basketball, U.S. vs. Tunisia, NBCSN

7:15 p.m. Men's volleyball, Brazil vs. Russia, NBCSN

8 p.m. Women's gymnastics, team final;

swimming finals: men's 200 butterfly,

men's 4 x 200 free relay, women's 200 free

women's 200 IM;

women's diving, synch. platform final (tape), WKYC

Midnight Women's gymnastics, team final;

swimming finals;

women's diving, synch. platform final (tape), Telemundo

12:35 a.m. Wednesday Swimming; women's beach volleyball,

U.S. vs. Netherlands (tape), WKYC

SOCCER

7 p.m. Tottenham (Premier) at New York (MLS), ESPN2

Davis, an eventual Pro Bowl cornerback who had a brilliant rookie season as a kick returner, was the 439th pick in the 1967 draft.

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A countdown of the top 100 players in Cleveland
Browns history. Players must have spent at least four seasons with the
Browns. The ranking is based only on players' careers with the Browns.

No. 98, Ben Davis, cornerback, 1967-73

Ben Davis was one of the Browns' all-time bargain draft picks, a 17th round selection -- the 439th overall pick -- out of Defiance College in northwestern Ohio, where he played running back.

Davis won a Browns' roster spot as a return man and backup cornerback. In his rookie season, Davis led the NFL in yards per punt return (12.7) and ranked seventh in yards per kickoff return (26.7). He brought one punt back for a touchdown.

Davis was utilized sparingly as a return man in 1968, but made a great impact at cornerback, winning some all-pro honors. He finished third in the NFL with eight interceptions -- including one pick in seven straight games -- and his 162 return yards led the league.

A torn anterior cruciate ligament in a knee early in the 1969 season hindered Davis' chances for true stardom, however. He played eight total games in 1969 and 1970 due to the injury.

Davis bounced back and was a solid starter for the Browns for three more seasons (1971-73), making the 1972 AFC Pro Bowl team.

Davis intercepted 17 passes in regular season games for the Browns, and three more in playoff games. Cleveland traded Davis to Detroit for a 1974 fifth-round draft pick. He played two seasons for the Lions before retiring.

Previously: No. 100; No. 99.

Video: About 1:10 into the footage, Part 3 of the 1968 Browns' highlight film features the defense. Cornerback Ben Davis (28) ranked third in the NFL that season with eight interceptions.

Getting swept by the Twins likely means GM Chris Antonetti will not be looking to bolster the Indians for the stretch run.

View full sizeChuck Crow, The Plain DealerWith the Tribe fading out of contention in the AL Central, it's more likely they will look to 2013 and trade a player, such as outfielder Shin-Soo Choo, than try to strengthen the team for the rest of 2012.

Kansas City, Mo. -- It would have been a lot easier for the Indians and their fans if they hadn't embarrassed themselves over the weekend in Minneapolis by getting swept by the lowly Twins.

Win one game and they would have been 41/2 games behind first-place Chicago in the American League Central. Win two and they would have been just 31/2 back. Sweep instead of getting swept and General Manager Chris Antonetti would have been much more inclined to arm the roster for the short term instead of looking at 2013 and beyond.

So, instead of renting free-agent-to-be outfielders Shane Victorino or Juan Pierre from the Phillies for the last two months of the season -- rumored asking price for Victorino was set-up man Vinnie Pestano -- Antonetti is expected to readjust his sights to longer-term improvements. Should he make a deal by Tuesday's 4 p.m. deadline, the new player will be staying in Cleveland through 2013 at least. It would be nice if he could help the Indians correct their downward spiral, but it's probably not required.

Antonetti made that kind of trade last year for Ubaldo Jimenez, who will be back next year. But if the Indians had carried the spark they showed against the Tigers at Progressive Field to the Twin Cities, Antonetti could have gambled more before the deadline to try to reinvigorate a team that is 6-11 since the All-Star break.

"We're further back now than we were last week," said Antonetti. "It really doesn't affect what we're trying to do. It was three games where we didn't play well. I don't want to overstate it."

The Indians are 50-52 with 60 games to play. They're 51/2 out in the AL Central and five out for the second wild-card spot.

"You don't have to look back any further than last year," said Antonetti, when asked if he thought the Indians still had a chance to make the postseason. "Teams that were a lot further out than we are now made the postseason."

The Rays and Cardinals qualified for the wild card on the last day of the regular season. This year, an additional wild card has been added to each league.

Currently, however, there's blood in the trade waters and some of it belongs to Chief Wahoo. Rumors are swirling about Tribe outfielder Shin-Soo Choo, starter Justin Masterson and closer Chris Perez. The Pirates, Reds and Dodgers are reportedly among the teams interested in Choo, a free agent after the 2013 season.

The Indians have tried several times to sign him to a multiyear deal, including last year following the worst season of his career, without success. Choo, 30, has rebounded nicely this season (.290, 12 homers, 39 RBI, .378 on-base percentage, .484 slugging percentage), but he's frustrated by the Indians' losing ways and wants to play on a winner.

Texas and Boston, two teams in need of a starting pitcher, reportedly scouted Masterson on Saturday night against the Twins. He retired 11 straight before throwing a shoe and allowing 10 runs, eight earned, on seven hits in 5 innings.

Perez has had a great season, converting 29 saves in 31 chances. The Giants are reportedly interested in Perez.

Choo, Masterson and Perez are just the kind of players the Indians are looking to obtain. Choo can't be a free agent until after the 2013 season, while Masterson and Perez can't be free agents until the end of the 2014 season.

So why would the Indians trade them? Well, they haven't yet, but general managers get paid to talk to other teams to try to find out how their players are valued. If the Indians want San Diego third baseman Chase Headley, or Pirates outfielder Starling Marte, then they might have to give up Choo, Masterson or Perez.

Out of the three, Choo is probably the most likely to get traded because his time as an Indian appears to be the shortest. Then again, if he's not traded by Tuesday's deadline, he could dealt by the Aug. 31 waiver deadline, this winter or sometime next year.

As for the Tribe's play suffering from the trade rumors, Antonetti said: "All our players have been in the game for a while. I'm pretty sure they can compartmentalize this. Every team in baseball, to some extent, is going through the same thing."

Finally: Roberto Hernandez, serving a three-week suspension from Major League Baseball for identity fraud, will make his second minor-league start Tuesday. Hernandez, formerly known as Fausto Carmona, will pitch for Class AAA Columbus against Rochester at Huntington Park.

Will the Indians make a move before 4 p.m. trading deadline? Check out the latest news and rumors concerning the Tribe and other teams around the league.

View full sizeChuck Crow/The Plain DealerJustin Masterson has been the subject of trade talks with several teams, reports say.

"The Indians continue to insist they don't expect to deal either Masterson. But other teams aren't so sure. Masterson, said one NL exec, "is definitely on the market, no matter what they're saying."

"The Phillies continue to talk to a bunch of teams about Shane Victorino, although their recent hot streak has left them more up in the air than ever about whether to trade a core player such as Victorino, whom they can't easily replace. Their asking price has been a young but proven setup reliever, plus a young outfielder or third baseman. But to get Victorino moved, said an official of one club, they're going to have to cut that price in half. Other teams expect them to narrow their focus eventually to just young relievers. Among the names we hear they've asked about: Pittsburgh's Brad Lincoln, Tampa Bay's Wade Davis, Cleveland's Vinnie Pestano and Cincinnati's Logan Ondrusek."

"He is the sort of player who could pass through waivers and remain available until Aug. 31, by which time the Red Sox almost surely will know whether they're close enough to make a playoff run.

To do so, they must leapfrog Toronto, Baltimore, Tampa Bay, Detroit and Los Angeles – and do so with a clubhouse that long ago turned on its manager. The Red Sox's problems run deep, and management has identified Beckett as its foremost one."

Shin-Soo Choo's days with the Indians could be numbered, says PD reporter Paul Hoynes. Watch video

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Welcome to today's edition of Starting Blocks TV, hosted by Chuck Yarborough. Today's guest is Plain Dealer reporter Paul Hoynes, pinch-hitting for Dennis Manoloff and checking in from Kansas City to talk about the Indians and the trade deadline.

Hoynes thinks the Indians need to consider moving outfielder Shin-Soo Choo because he feels the outfielder will leave via free agency when his contract expires.

Hoynes said that it seems the fans, more than the players, are in panic mode, judging from commenters and chat rooms. He also said that if the Indians do pull the trigger on a trade, they're likely going to be looking for a right-handed bat and pitching.

And he noted that if the indians win 35 games - a .580 pace - they'll finish with 85 wins, which just might let them sneak into the playoffs as the last wild card team. But they will have to start playing better baseball for that to happen.

SBTV will return Wednesday with Plain Dealer reporter Tim Rogers talking about the World Golf Championships-Bridgestone Invitational at Firestone Country Club in Akron. 

The Indians aren't expected to make a trade by today's 4 p.m. deadline, but you never know. Here's an update on what teams are interested in the Indians players.

View full sizeChuck Crow/The Plain DealerThe Indians weren't willing to part with Vinnie Pestano in trade talks with the Phillies.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- MLB's 30 teams are coming down to the 4 p.m. ET deadline for making trades. It doesn't appear as if the Indians will make a deal, but here are some of the rumors they've been involved in.

-Just because Matt Garza has a sore right triceps muscle doesn't mean the Cubs won't trade him today. And it doesn't mean the Indians aren't interested.

The Cubs and Indians have talked about Garza, a right-hander who would look good in manager Manny Acta's rotation for the last two months of the season and next year.  Toronto is one of several other teams interested.

Chicago was interested in the Tribe's relievers -- both the big league and minor league variety.

The rebuilding Cubs are ready to deal. Last night they traded catcher Geovany Soto to Texas and outfielder Reed Johnson and left-hander Paul Maholm to Atlanta. It's believed the Indians had some interest in Johnson and Maholm.

-The disappointing Phillies are another club that is deep into the rumor game. The Indians checked in with them on switch-hitting outfielder Shane Victorino, but took off in the opposite direction when the Phillies wanted set-up man Vinnie Pestano.

Pestano, having a great season, is only in his second year in the big leagues. The Indians can control him for four more years. Victorino is a free agent after this season.

At one point the Indians were willing to deal one of their lesser relievers.

The Phillies traded Victorino to the Dodgers today. They reportedly received reliever Josh Lindblom and prospect Ethan Martin.

John Mayberry is expected to replace Victorino in center field for the Phillies, while prospect Domonic Brown will be recalled to play left field.

The Phillies also reportedly sent Hunter Pence, another outfielder, to the Giants.

- The Indians have listened to offers on Justin Masterson, their inconsistent Opening Day starter. It's unclear if they're willing to trade him or are just trying to get a feel for what value teams place on him.

One thing is clear, there are no untouchables on the Tribe's roster.

Boston is one of the teams interested in Masterson. The Indians acquired Masterson from the Red Sox in 2009 for Victor Martinez. They've been trying to get him back ever since.

- There was a rumor that the Yankees might be looking at Jose Lopez as a fill-in for injured Alex Rodriguez at third base.

- The Dodgers inquired about right fielder Shin-Soo Choo.

Lots of teams like Choo and it's clear that at some point between now and the end of the 2013 season, the Indians are going to have to trade him. He's made it clear that he won't sign a multiyear deal and next year is his final one before free agency.

The Pirates started the charge toward Choo, but things may have cooled. It's unclear if they're willing to give up Starling Marte in return.

It has been a busy several days for Dodger GM Ned Colletti, who acquired Hanley Ramirez and Randy Choate from the Marlins and Brandon League from the Mariners before getting Victorino.

The Reds were also interested in Choo because of his strong showing in the leadoff spot. However, they appear to have shifted their interest to Minnesota's Denard Span.

- Boston's Kelly Shoppach, former Tribe catcher, could be on the move. Milwaukee and the Nationals, according to the Boston Globe, are interested.

- Carlos Lee, Miami's outfielder/first baseman, is reportedly available. The Indians have often been linked to Lee, but he hasn't done much since Houston traded him to the Marlins.

Lee, 36, is a free agent at the end of the year. If the Indians were playing better, it's a guy they may have taken a chance on for the stretch run. The Marlins are believed to be paying most of his $18.5 million salary for this year.

- The Giants rumored interest has cooled quickly. The Dodgers, before acquiring League League from Seattle, may have been interested as well.

-Remember, teams can still make trades until Aug. 31. They must get waivers on any player they acquire. 

Will the Indians make a move before 4 p.m.? What should Browns fans expect from the proposed new ownership of the team? Plain Dealer sports columnist Terry Pluto answered those questions and more in his weekly podcast with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore.

View full sizeChuck Crow/The Plain DealerWill Tribe GM Chris Antonetti make a move before 4 p.m.? Terry Pluto discusses this and more in his weekly podcast.

Will the Indians make a move before 4 p.m.? What should Browns fans expect from the proposed new ownership of the team?

Plain Dealer sports columnist Terry Pluto answered those questions and more in his weekly podcast with cleveland.com's Glenn Moore.

Among other topics discussed:

• Should the Tribe rebuild for the future through a trade?

• Should the Dolans be held accountable?

• What does Mike Holmgren's future hold?

• How has Brandon Weeden and Trent Richardson looked so far?

You can download the mp3 or listen with the player to the right.

Be sure to also like Terry Pluto on Facebook and follow him on Twitter.

Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney, Alexandra Raisman, Kyla Ross and Jordyn Wieber totaled 183.596 points for a 5.066-point triumph over Russia.

U.S. gymnast Jordyn Wieber, right, hugs teammate Alexandra Raisman after finishing her floor exercise during the Artistic Gymnastics women's team final at the 2012 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 31, 2012, in London. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)

LONDON -- The drama was absent, but for the U.S. women's gymnastics team, history was omnipresent.

The Americans captured their second team gold medal in the event, and first since 1996, with surprisingly little challenge at the London Olympics on Tuesday. Gabby Douglas, McKayla Maroney, Aly Raisman, Kyla Ross and Jordyn Wieber totaled 183.596 points and owned a 5.066-point gap over Russia. Romania won the bronze medal, 7.182 behind.

The history was some of their own making, and also in the looming comparisons to the '96 team. The rush to crown this group as the best American gymnastics team began long ago, and it's probably unfair to compare them because the sport has changed significantly, from the scoring to the added twists and flips.

One thing is certain, in an era of instant communication, they already are rocketing to worldwide fame faster than the "Magnificent Seven," whose numbers included current Greater Cleveland resident Dominique Moceanu, now 31. That team is so well remembered in part because of the dramatic finish in which the injured Kerri Strug stuck her landing on the last vault to clinch the gold, while Russia took silver.

"In 1996, it was a great team made up of individual athletes," said veteran coach Bela Karolyi, who coached Strug and Moceanu, and whose wife, Martha, is the current U.S. team coordinator. "When we got them together they were a beautiful bouquet of individual athletes rather than a team, and that made a big difference tonight. The unity of this team is their main ingredient."

Several gymnasts agreed, saying they are extremely close. Maroney suggested they go on a vacation together soon. The reality is the "Fab Five" soon will be coming to an arena near you to turn their gold into cash.

"It could be a catalyst to a better place," U.S. coach John Geddert said. "The financial gains will be pretty significant with the USA tour coming up and the endorsements and opportunities. Any time you can put six figures behind a 16-year-old, it takes you to a different place. I think these guys come from good stock. Their parents are very astute, and I think they'll be fine."

They were in a good place Tuesday.

Perhaps appropriately, they took off where Strug landed, beginning on the vault alongside the Russians. That's where the defending world champion Americans began sticking pins in Russia's hopes, and the 2010 world champs contributed to their own demise with numerous stumbles and bumbles.

Wieber, Douglas and Maroney each nailed a two-and-a half twist known as a Yurhenko, or Amanar. Wiener's was an emotional lift for the team and Mulroney's was a physical marvel that sent a bolt of excitement through an already electric atmosphere.

Wieber, the 2011 world all-around champion, had to overcome the devastation of not qualifying for the individual all-around final this week, even though she was fourth overall. She finished behind Douglas and Raisman and an international federation rule caps the number of finalists at two per nation in the 24-woman field.

No matter. Her vault was perhaps her best of the season (15.933), and she hopped back to the bench area beaming. Maroney said Wieber redeemed herself.

"I knew I had to [come] together for the team. This is the most important competition. I'm proud of every single person on this team. We all did our job," Wieber said.

Douglas scored a 15.966. Maroney absolutely soared, so much so that Geddert suggested the move be renamed the Maroney.

Precise routines and a confident, relaxed manner between stations were the norm the rest of the night. The U.S. posted the highest team scores on the vault (48.132), balance beam (45.299) and floor exercise (45.366), and was third on the uneven bars (44.799).

The gold medal virtually was clinched before the Americans' floor routine. The Russians went before them and their final gymnast, defending world floor champ Kseniia Afanaseva, fell short and to her knees on her final pass. Afterward, she sat in a chair with her head in her hands, the third time a Russian struck that pose.

The U.S. needed to be average (40.3 points) on the floor to be remembered as great. Douglas, Wieber and Raisman beat the target by five points.

Raisman surprisingly broke down in tears while "USA! USA!" cheers rose up in the packed arena. There was an awkward pause as photographers lined up to capture the moment of the official announcement of what everyone already knew.

"I was just hoping that we had won. I hadn't been keeping track of the scores, but I was just so proud of all these girls," Raisman said.

Moments later, the Americans in their sparkling red leotards with golden flecks were cheering and embracing, and disappeared briefly into a gaggle of much taller photographers, beginning the media blitz that will follow them for years.

"It was really exhilarating and scary at the same time. I don't think I'll ever forget that moment," Maroney said.

This certainly is a team for the ages, even if their average age today is a few months beyond 16. When Karolyi was asked about their future, he wasn't thinking very far ahead.

"You bet on your life that tomorrow morning they will be working out. They are going to prepare for the next competition, and the next competition," he said.

And when they are 20?

"That's so far way. I don't even want to think about it," Karolyi said.

On Twitter: @TimsTakePD

SOLON, O. - Solon senior receiver/quarterback/safety Drew Barksdale gave Boston College his oral commitment on Sunday.  "I wanted a school with good football and one which would fit me academically,'' said Barksdale, a 6-0, 180-pounder who plans on majoring in either business or biology.

SOLON, O. - Solon senior receiver/quarterback/safety Drew Barksdale gave Boston College his oral commitment on Sunday.

 "I wanted a school with good football and one which would fit me academically,'' said Barksdale, a 6-0, 180-pounder who plans on majoring in either business or biology.

 Barksdale also entertained scholarship offers from Ohio University, Akron and Air Force.

 "My grandparents live about 10-15 minutes away from BC and I have an aunt who lives about 45 minutes away,'' he said. "It's comforting to know I'll have family close by.''

 Barksdale caught eight passes last season for 126 yards, rushed for 339 yards and five touchdowns and completed 10 of 18 passes for 85 yards and two touchdowns.

 Drew's oldest brother, Tres Barksdale, is presently a freshman wide receiver at Michigan State.

 "We were both kind of surprised Michigan State didn't show an interest in me,'' said Drew, who was recruited as a receiver, "but I'm glad the way things worked out.

 "I know I have to gain some weight, get stronger and increase my speed to play at the next level, but I also know they'll need a few more receivers by the time I get (to Boston).

 "I'm just glad to get the recruiting procedure over with. I can now concentrate on football and enjoying my school.''

cleveland.com is excited to announce the launch of a new commenting platform with new features that will make your experience more engaging and useful. The new system goes live on Thursday, Aug. 2.

cleveland.com will be launching a new comments platform on Thursday.

On the heels of its new home page design, cleveland.com is excited to announce the launch of a new commenting platform with new features that will make your experience more engaging and useful.

The new platform, which will launch Thursday, Aug. 2,, features comments that update in real time, much like the experience in instant messaging or Facebook. The immediacy of the experience will encourage livelier discussion and allow you to interact with other readers and reporters who share your interests without any delay.

New tools for rating and flagging posts will allow you to participate even more. The "inappropriate post" link has been replaced with a "flag" button, which allows you quickly notify our moderators of a post that may not meet our site’s community standards without having to fill out a form. You will also be able to “like” comments that you agree with or couldn’t have said better yourself, which will help you sort through all the comments and find the best discussions.

You can also customize how you read comments by sorting them by most recent, popular now, most liked or oldest first.

cleveland.com's comments will be easier to share as well. Each comment has its own link, making it possible to share great comments through Facebook, Twitter, or email.

We hope you enjoy the enhanced functionality, stronger community management tools and increased commenting speed. Let us know what you think!

Benjamin, a rookie wide receiver, has managed to catch the football thus far in training camp, after having some problems in spring practices. Cameron could help at tight end. More Browns' story links.

John Kuntz, The Plain DealerThe Browns hope Travis Benjamin can make some big plays at wide receiver.

The ball is sticking to Benjamin’s hands.

His speed hasn’t gone anywhere, aside from straight into plans for the 2012 season.

Somebody asked head coach Pat Shurmur after practice how fired up he is about plugging those legs into game plans.

“I’m very eager, of course,” Shurmur said. “I think he has really established himself."