Daytona Beach, FL, United States (AHN) - With his fourth win of the season Todd Bodine extended his lead in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series points race.
The former champion, who has 2,898 points, extended his points lead from 236 to 261 over Aric Almirola, who has 2,637. Rounding out the top-five in points are Johnny Sauter (2,580), Timothy Peters (2,533) and Ron Hornaday Jr. (2,461).
Austin Dillon sits sixth with 2,458 points and in seventh is Matt Crafton (2,458), followed by Mike Skinner (2,334), David Starr (2,254) and Jason White (2,133).
In positions 11-20 are: Justin Lofton (2,107), Ricky Carmichael (2,097), James Buescher (1,950), Mario Gosselin (1,920), Ryan Sieg (1,885), Jennifer Jo Cobb (1,695), Kyle Busch (1,673), Norm Benning (1,623), Brett Butler (1,409) and Stacy Compton (1,357).
In points positions 21-30 is a group that includes: Brent Raymer (1,318), Donny Lia (1,294), Dennis Setzer (864), Brian Ickler (834), Ken Schrader (800), Tayler Malsam (798), Elliott Sadler (782), Narain Karthikeyan (757), Kevin Harvick (755) and J.C. Stout (747).
In spots 31-40 are Johnny Benson Jr. (735), Brad Sweet (705), Mike Garvey (732), Brad Sweet (705), Chris Jones (690), Mike Harmon (682), Rick Crawford (669), Chris Fontaine (603), Max Papis (562), Tony Jackson Jr. (547), Nelson Piquet (541), Clay Greenfield (540), Brad Keselowski (504), Chris Eggleston (496), Carl Long (496) and Steve Wallace (477).
Daytona Beach, FL, United States (AHN) - With his fourth win of the season Todd Bodine extended his lead in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series points race.
The former champion, who has 2,898 points, extended his points lead from 236 to 261 over Aric Almirola, who has 2,637. Rounding out the top-five in points are Johnny Sauter (2,580), Timothy Peters (2,533) and Ron Hornaday Jr. (2,461).
Austin Dillon sits sixth with 2,458 points and in seventh is Matt Crafton (2,458), followed by Mike Skinner (2,334), David Starr (2,254) and Jason White (2,133).
In positions 11-20 are: Justin Lofton (2,107), Ricky Carmichael (2,097), James Buescher (1,950), Mario Gosselin (1,920), Ryan Sieg (1,885), Jennifer Jo Cobb (1,695), Kyle Busch (1,673), Norm Benning (1,623), Brett Butler (1,409) and Stacy Compton (1,357).
In points positions 21-30 is a group that includes: Brent Raymer (1,318), Donny Lia (1,294), Dennis Setzer (864), Brian Ickler (834), Ken Schrader (800), Tayler Malsam (798), Elliott Sadler (782), Narain Karthikeyan (757), Kevin Harvick (755) and J.C. Stout (747).
In spots 31-40 are Johnny Benson Jr. (735), Brad Sweet (705), Mike Garvey (732), Brad Sweet (705), Chris Jones (690), Mike Harmon (682), Rick Crawford (669), Chris Fontaine (603), Max Papis (562), Tony Jackson Jr. (547), Nelson Piquet (541), Clay Greenfield (540), Brad Keselowski (504), Chris Eggleston (496), Carl Long (496) and Steve Wallace (477).
Daytona Beach, FL, United States (AHN) - Carl Edwards gained a little bit of ground but another solid run by Brad Keselowski allowed the points leader to maintain a solid lead in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.
Keselowski\'s lead fell from 365 to 332 over former series champion Edwards. He leads with 4,127 points and Edwards has 3,795, while Kyle Busch is third with 3,576 points. Justin Allgaier is fourth with 3,385 and rounding out the top-five in points is Paul Menard (3,309).
Kevin Harvick (3,073), Trevor Bayne (2,946), Steve Wallace (2,915), Joey Logano (2,872) and Jason Leffler (2,866) make up the top-10 in points.
In positions 11-20 are: Brendan Gaughan (2,784), Michael Annett (2,743), Brian Scott (2,628), Tony Raines (2,536), Reed Sorenson (2,512), Mike Bliss (2,512), Kenny Wallace (2,368), Mike Wallace (2,344), Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (2,245) and Michael McDowell (2,156).
Joe Nemechek (2,156), Colin Braun (1,928), Jason Keller (1,916), Eric McClure (1,860), Josh Wise (1,731), Shelby Howard (1,506), Robert Richardson Jr. (1,478), Mark Green (1,397), Greg Biffle (1,368) and Morgan Shepherd (1,357) make up positions 21-30.
Rounding out positions 31-45 are: Willie Allen (1,338), Scott Lagasse Jr. (1,328), Brian Keselowski (1,300), Jamie McMurray (1,234), Clint Bowyer (1,127), Tayler Malsam (981), James Buescher (903), John Wes Townley (866), Ryan Newman (865), Jeremy Clements (846), Danny O\'Quinn Jr. (798), Kevin Lepage (793), Parker Kligerman (753), Scott Riggs (741) and Kelly Bires (740).
Daytona Beach, FL, United States (AHN) - Carl Edwards gained a little bit of ground but another solid run by Brad Keselowski allowed the points leader to maintain a solid lead in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.
Keselowski\'s lead fell from 365 to 332 over former series champion Edwards. He leads with 4,127 points and Edwards has 3,795, while Kyle Busch is third with 3,576 points. Justin Allgaier is fourth with 3,385 and rounding out the top-five in points is Paul Menard (3,309).
Kevin Harvick (3,073), Trevor Bayne (2,946), Steve Wallace (2,915), Joey Logano (2,872) and Jason Leffler (2,866) make up the top-10 in points.
In positions 11-20 are: Brendan Gaughan (2,784), Michael Annett (2,743), Brian Scott (2,628), Tony Raines (2,536), Reed Sorenson (2,512), Mike Bliss (2,512), Kenny Wallace (2,368), Mike Wallace (2,344), Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (2,245) and Michael McDowell (2,156).
Joe Nemechek (2,156), Colin Braun (1,928), Jason Keller (1,916), Eric McClure (1,860), Josh Wise (1,731), Shelby Howard (1,506), Robert Richardson Jr. (1,478), Mark Green (1,397), Greg Biffle (1,368) and Morgan Shepherd (1,357) make up positions 21-30.
Rounding out positions 31-45 are: Willie Allen (1,338), Scott Lagasse Jr. (1,328), Brian Keselowski (1,300), Jamie McMurray (1,234), Clint Bowyer (1,127), Tayler Malsam (981), James Buescher (903), John Wes Townley (866), Ryan Newman (865), Jeremy Clements (846), Danny O\'Quinn Jr. (798), Kevin Lepage (793), Parker Kligerman (753), Scott Riggs (741) and Kelly Bires (740).
Washington, DC, United States (AHN) - After coaches saw an apparent lack of effort from Albert Haynesworth at the Redskins final preseason game, Washington decided to bench the $100 million defensive tackle for the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
Haynesworth, 29, has been at war with newly-hired head coach Mike Shanahan since the team\'s switch to a 3-4 defnese.
The South Carolina product made headlines for failing to pass his conditioning test several times before finally participating in training camp.
Haynesworth was in on 49 of the 55 defensive plays for Washington, but the coaching staff did not see the same player Washington awarded a seven-year, $100 million contract to in 2009.
The 6-foot-6, 350-lb tackle had 8.5 sacks and 41 tackles in 2008, but managed just 4.0 sacks and 37 tackles in 12 games last season.
The Redskins open their season in a heated division match Sep. 12, hosting the Cowboys at 8:20 pm ET.
Washington, DC, United States (AHN) - After coaches saw an apparent lack of effort from Albert Haynesworth at the Redskins final preseason game, Washington decided to bench the $100 million defensive tackle for the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.
Haynesworth, 29, has been at war with newly-hired head coach Mike Shanahan since the team\'s switch to a 3-4 defnese.
The South Carolina product made headlines for failing to pass his conditioning test several times before finally participating in training camp.
Haynesworth was in on 49 of the 55 defensive plays for Washington, but the coaching staff did not see the same player Washington awarded a seven-year, $100 million contract to in 2009.
The 6-foot-6, 350-lb tackle had 8.5 sacks and 41 tackles in 2008, but managed just 4.0 sacks and 37 tackles in 12 games last season.
The Redskins open their season in a heated division match Sep. 12, hosting the Cowboys at 8:20 pm ET.
San Diego, CA, United States (AHN) - Wins don\'t come easy for San Diego lately, as the Padres dropped their 10th consecutive match Sunday, losing to the Colorado Rockies 4-2 at PETCO Park.
The Padres saw their decisive lead in the NL West standing shrink further, thanks to a lackluster performance in all facets of play: hitting, pitching and even fielding.
Over the last 10 games, the Padres have not collected timely hits in crucial situations, scoring about two runs per game during the stretch.
In Sunday\'s match against the Rockies, the Padres\' offense once again stalled in the late innings, allowing their division rival to record a sweep over the weekend.
The Pads also played poorly in the field, committing a pair of errors.
For the Padres, the 10-game losing streak was the worst they have since the 1994 season, where they posted a franchise-record 13 consecutive loss.
The Padres (76-59) are also in danger of slipping to third place in the division standing, with the Rockies (72-64) and San Francisco Giants (76-61) going strong this month.
If the Friars make the playoffs, they will become only the third team in MLB history to do it despite losing 10 or more regular-season games in a row.
General Manager Jed Hoyer didn\'t blame his team\'s effort for its recent woes, but admitted he was disappointed about the timing of the slide.
The Padres also missed the productivity and leadership of veteran slugger Jerry Hairston Jr, sidelined with a right elbow sprain.
Hairston, 24, is averaging just 249 but has solid overall stats with 10 home runs, 50 RBI, 31 walks, 52 runs in 115 games this season.
The most important number the Pads 0-9 mark without him in the lineup during the recent skid.
The Friars are scheduled to open a three-game series Monday against the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers (56-81).
The Dodgers look to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to the Giants Sunday, but the Padres are also determined to end their nightmarish streak.
San Diego, CA, United States (AHN) - Wins don\'t come easy for San Diego lately, as the Padres dropped their 10th consecutive match Sunday, losing to the Colorado Rockies 4-2 at PETCO Park.
The Padres saw their decisive lead in the NL West standing shrink further, thanks to a lackluster performance in all facets of play: hitting, pitching and even fielding.
Over the last 10 games, the Padres have not collected timely hits in crucial situations, scoring about two runs per game during the stretch.
In Sunday\'s match against the Rockies, the Padres\' offense once again stalled in the late innings, allowing their division rival to record a sweep over the weekend.
The Pads also played poorly in the field, committing a pair of errors.
For the Padres, the 10-game losing streak was the worst they have since the 1994 season, where they posted a franchise-record 13 consecutive loss.
The Padres (76-59) are also in danger of slipping to third place in the division standing, with the Rockies (72-64) and San Francisco Giants (76-61) going strong this month.
If the Friars make the playoffs, they will become only the third team in MLB history to do it despite losing 10 or more regular-season games in a row.
General Manager Jed Hoyer didn\'t blame his team\'s effort for its recent woes, but admitted he was disappointed about the timing of the slide.
The Padres also missed the productivity and leadership of veteran slugger Jerry Hairston Jr, sidelined with a right elbow sprain.
Hairston, 24, is averaging just 249 but has solid overall stats with 10 home runs, 50 RBI, 31 walks, 52 runs in 115 games this season.
The most important number the Pads 0-9 mark without him in the lineup during the recent skid.
The Friars are scheduled to open a three-game series Monday against the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers (56-81).
The Dodgers look to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to the Giants Sunday, but the Padres are also determined to end their nightmarish streak.
ON, Canada (AHN) - Free agent veteran forward Owen Nolan, who last played for the Minnesota Wild, is waiting for word an NHL suitor for the upcoming season.
Nolan, 38, who completed his two years with the Wild, is reportedly hoping to return to San Jose and capture the elusive Stanley Cup with the Sharks.
Nolan emerged as a dominant presence for the Sharks upon his arrival in San Jose following a trade with the Quebec Nordiques, later renamed the Colorado Avalanche, who made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 1990 draft.
The former Sharks captain scored 206 goals and 451 points in 568 contests with San Jose between 1995 and 2003. He was later traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Owen\'s return to the Sharks seems unlikely as San Jose apparently plans to give prospects Cameron Macintyre and Frazer McLaren a chance to contend for a roster spot Nolan might have filled, according to Mercury News.com.
The five-time NHL All-Star also played for the Phoenix Coyotes and Calgary Flames before inking a two-year, $5.5 million pact with the Wild in July 2008.
In his NHL career, Nolan has compiled 422 goals and 885 points in 1200 regular-season games.
He has also registered 21 goals and 19 assists in 65 NHL playoff tilts.
ON, Canada (AHN) - Free agent veteran forward Owen Nolan, who last played for the Minnesota Wild, is waiting for word an NHL suitor for the upcoming season.
Nolan, 38, who completed his two years with the Wild, is reportedly hoping to return to San Jose and capture the elusive Stanley Cup with the Sharks.
Nolan emerged as a dominant presence for the Sharks upon his arrival in San Jose following a trade with the Quebec Nordiques, later renamed the Colorado Avalanche, who made him the No. 1 overall pick in the 1990 draft.
The former Sharks captain scored 206 goals and 451 points in 568 contests with San Jose between 1995 and 2003. He was later traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Owen\'s return to the Sharks seems unlikely as San Jose apparently plans to give prospects Cameron Macintyre and Frazer McLaren a chance to contend for a roster spot Nolan might have filled, according to Mercury News.com.
The five-time NHL All-Star also played for the Phoenix Coyotes and Calgary Flames before inking a two-year, $5.5 million pact with the Wild in July 2008.
In his NHL career, Nolan has compiled 422 goals and 885 points in 1200 regular-season games.
He has also registered 21 goals and 19 assists in 65 NHL playoff tilts.
San Diego, CA, United States (AHN) - Talks of trading disgruntled Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson have reportedly reached an impasse after no deal was reached Saturday.
Conflicting reports came out Sunday as to why the holdout Pro Bowler was not traded.
According NBC San Diego.com, reports surfaced that the Chargers did not exert effort in dealing the former Northern Colorado standout, who was selected by San Diego in the 2005 Draft.
On the other hand, various reports, including the San Diego Union-Tribune.com, indicated that the 27-year-old Jackson, who was given a first-and-third tender by the Chargers in March, has priced himself out of a trade.
One of the teams interested in Jackson was Seattle, but the Seahawks decided to pull out after hearing of the receiver\'s asking price, according to the Union-Tribune
The Rams and Vikings have also reportedly explored trade options with Jackson, but publicly indicated recently that their interest on the 2009 Pro-Bowler has waned.
Jackson, who was deemed a restricted free agent due to the absence of a CBA in 2011, is reportedly seeking a five-year contract worth about $50 million.
As a result of the contract dispute with the Chargers, Jackson held out all of training camp and the preseason.
Jackson is expected to miss out at least six contests this season. The NFL handed out a three-game suspension on Jackson for his second DUI.
He must also sit three more tilts after failing to report to the team by Saturday\'s 3 p.m. deadline. The Chargers placed Jackson on the roster exempt list.
San Diego, CA, United States (AHN) - Talks of trading disgruntled Chargers wide receiver Vincent Jackson have reportedly reached an impasse after no deal was reached Saturday.
Conflicting reports came out Sunday as to why the holdout Pro Bowler was not traded.
According NBC San Diego.com, reports surfaced that the Chargers did not exert effort in dealing the former Northern Colorado standout, who was selected by San Diego in the 2005 Draft.
On the other hand, various reports, including the San Diego Union-Tribune.com, indicated that the 27-year-old Jackson, who was given a first-and-third tender by the Chargers in March, has priced himself out of a trade.
One of the teams interested in Jackson was Seattle, but the Seahawks decided to pull out after hearing of the receiver\'s asking price, according to the Union-Tribune
The Rams and Vikings have also reportedly explored trade options with Jackson, but publicly indicated recently that their interest on the 2009 Pro-Bowler has waned.
Jackson, who was deemed a restricted free agent due to the absence of a CBA in 2011, is reportedly seeking a five-year contract worth about $50 million.
As a result of the contract dispute with the Chargers, Jackson held out all of training camp and the preseason.
Jackson is expected to miss out at least six contests this season. The NFL handed out a three-game suspension on Jackson for his second DUI.
He must also sit three more tilts after failing to report to the team by Saturday\'s 3 p.m. deadline. The Chargers placed Jackson on the roster exempt list.
Houston, TX, United States (AHN) - The Houston Texans acquired former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, who was waived by the Arizona Cardinals Saturday.
The team and quarterback reportedly agreed to a one-year deal Monday.
The Texans add Leinart to their quarterbacking corps, which already includes starter Matt Schaub and backup quarterback Dan Orlovsky.
According to CBSsportsline.com Sunday, Seahawks executives were divided over the idea of enlisting Leinart, leaving the door open to the Texans.
Leinart, 27, rose to prominence during his college years, where he helped Pete Carroll\'s USC Trojans capture the BCS National Championship in 2004.
Carroll, who replaced Jim Mora as Seahawks football coach in January, was reportedly interested in his former protégé, but G.M. John Schneider may have scuttled the plan.
The Texans had a roster spot after they declined to re-sign quarterback John David Booty, a move that ignited speculation the team was preparing to ink Leinart.
The Oakland Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans were also linked to the former USC standout, although none of them confirmed the reports.
Houston, TX, United States (AHN) - The Houston Texans acquired former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart, who was waived by the Arizona Cardinals Saturday.
The team and quarterback reportedly agreed to a one-year deal Monday.
The Texans add Leinart to their quarterbacking corps, which already includes starter Matt Schaub and backup quarterback Dan Orlovsky.
According to CBSsportsline.com Sunday, Seahawks executives were divided over the idea of enlisting Leinart, leaving the door open to the Texans.
Leinart, 27, rose to prominence during his college years, where he helped Pete Carroll\'s USC Trojans capture the BCS National Championship in 2004.
Carroll, who replaced Jim Mora as Seahawks football coach in January, was reportedly interested in his former protégé, but G.M. John Schneider may have scuttled the plan.
The Texans had a roster spot after they declined to re-sign quarterback John David Booty, a move that ignited speculation the team was preparing to ink Leinart.
The Oakland Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans were also linked to the former USC standout, although none of them confirmed the reports.
Manchester, United Kingdom (AHN) - A sex scandal involving star striker Wayne Rooney has rocked English soccer on the eve of their 2012 European Championship Qualifier with Switzerland.
Two media outlets allege Rooney, 24, had sexual relations with a prostitute while his wife, Colleen, was pregnant.
Neither Wayne or Colleen, who were childhood sweethearts, have yet commented on the allegations.
These are not the first such allegations to be made about the Manchester United/England forward, with stories alleging he has slept with mature prostitutes in the past dogging his career.
The latest allegations threatened to see Rooney pull out of England\'s Tuesday evening match-up with Switzerland in Basel, although that is now thought unlikely.
The England team was rocked with similar problems in the build-up to the 2010 World Cup when it emerged that captain John Terry had a previous affair with the partner of teammate Wayne Bridge.
The scandal caused Bridge to retire from international soccer, whilst Terry lost the captaincy to Steven Gerrard.
Manchester, United Kingdom (AHN) - A sex scandal involving star striker Wayne Rooney has rocked English soccer on the eve of their 2012 European Championship Qualifier with Switzerland.
Two media outlets allege Rooney, 24, had sexual relations with a prostitute while his wife, Colleen, was pregnant.
Neither Wayne or Colleen, who were childhood sweethearts, have yet commented on the allegations.
These are not the first such allegations to be made about the Manchester United/England forward, with stories alleging he has slept with mature prostitutes in the past dogging his career.
The latest allegations threatened to see Rooney pull out of England\'s Tuesday evening match-up with Switzerland in Basel, although that is now thought unlikely.
The England team was rocked with similar problems in the build-up to the 2010 World Cup when it emerged that captain John Terry had a previous affair with the partner of teammate Wayne Bridge.
The scandal caused Bridge to retire from international soccer, whilst Terry lost the captaincy to Steven Gerrard.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - After a summer of watching, waiting and worrying the New York Jets will finally get their main defensive cog in uniform this week.
All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis agreed to a 7-year, $46 million contract ($32 million guaranteed) with the team over the weekend and is expected to be ready for next Monday\'s opener vs. the Ravens.
Revis, who began his holdout August 1 in an apparent bid to be a top paid player at his position in the NFL, was wooed throughout the summer by the Jets, particularly head coach Rex Ryan.
Jets owner Woody Johnson was well aware of the situation and put on a full-court press with a weekend visit with the coach to see Revis.
The move apparently paid off, for both sides, and a team that publicly voiced its concerns about what missing Revis would have meant to its top-ranked defense---on the HBO series \'Hard Knocks\'---can breathe easier.
Revis is an emerging superstar with two Pro Bowl selections and an AFC Defensive Player of the Year award.
His next tackle will be the 200th of his career, and Revis has 14 career interceptions despite the fact few quarterbacks visit "Revis Island" by not throwing often to the receiver he is defending.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - After a summer of watching, waiting and worrying the New York Jets will finally get their main defensive cog in uniform this week.
All-Pro cornerback Darrelle Revis agreed to a 7-year, $46 million contract ($32 million guaranteed) with the team over the weekend and is expected to be ready for next Monday\'s opener vs. the Ravens.
Revis, who began his holdout August 1 in an apparent bid to be a top paid player at his position in the NFL, was wooed throughout the summer by the Jets, particularly head coach Rex Ryan.
Jets owner Woody Johnson was well aware of the situation and put on a full-court press with a weekend visit with the coach to see Revis.
The move apparently paid off, for both sides, and a team that publicly voiced its concerns about what missing Revis would have meant to its top-ranked defense---on the HBO series \'Hard Knocks\'---can breathe easier.
Revis is an emerging superstar with two Pro Bowl selections and an AFC Defensive Player of the Year award.
His next tackle will be the 200th of his career, and Revis has 14 career interceptions despite the fact few quarterbacks visit "Revis Island" by not throwing often to the receiver he is defending.
Houston, TX, United States (AHN) - Geovanni Deiberson, in his first Major League Soccer start since arriving in San Jose, scored the go-ahead goal in the 64th minute, helping the Earthquakes get back in the winning column with a 2-1 win over the Houston Dynamo Sunday at Robertson Stadium.
Geovanni, signed as the \'Quakes Designated Player, also recorded his first MLS assist following a feed to Khari Stephenson at the penalty spot that resulted in a 1-0 advantage for San Jose in the 6th minute.
After the Dynamo finally found the back of the net just before halftime, Geovanni collared the ball inside the area and shattered the deadlock with a first-time stab in the 64th minute.
Brad Davis accounted for the lone goal by the Dynamo, whose playoff hopes have all but evaporated.
Houston has been successful only once in its last 13 matches.
The Dynamo will have a week off before playing the Chicago Fire.
Meanwhile, the Earthquakes, who had a brief two-game winning streak halted the last time out, pushed five points clear of the next two teams trailing them for the final spot following the Sunday\'s win.
San Jose will try to carry the momentum when it returns home to face against FC Dallas next weekend.
Houston, TX, United States (AHN) - Geovanni Deiberson, in his first Major League Soccer start since arriving in San Jose, scored the go-ahead goal in the 64th minute, helping the Earthquakes get back in the winning column with a 2-1 win over the Houston Dynamo Sunday at Robertson Stadium.
Geovanni, signed as the \'Quakes Designated Player, also recorded his first MLS assist following a feed to Khari Stephenson at the penalty spot that resulted in a 1-0 advantage for San Jose in the 6th minute.
After the Dynamo finally found the back of the net just before halftime, Geovanni collared the ball inside the area and shattered the deadlock with a first-time stab in the 64th minute.
Brad Davis accounted for the lone goal by the Dynamo, whose playoff hopes have all but evaporated.
Houston has been successful only once in its last 13 matches.
The Dynamo will have a week off before playing the Chicago Fire.
Meanwhile, the Earthquakes, who had a brief two-game winning streak halted the last time out, pushed five points clear of the next two teams trailing them for the final spot following the Sunday\'s win.
San Jose will try to carry the momentum when it returns home to face against FC Dallas next weekend.
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - It had been about a year since Tony Stewart last got to Victory Lane, and Sunday night he used some great pit stops to get track position and win the Emory Healthcare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Stewart had to fend fight off a couple of late restarts and led 175 of 325 laps in scoring his first Sprint Cup win of the season.
"I didn\'t hit a restart all night until right there at the end,\'\' said Stewart, who gained two spots in the points standing to fourth. "It was that last stop that got us that track position. I\'ve never been so happy to win in my life.\'\'
Stewart held off former Atlanta winner Carl Edwards for the win as Stewart scored his third Atlanta win and got a boost heading into The Chase in two weeks.
Edwards led 28 laps, was in a position to win and was happy with that as he prepares for another run at The Chase.
"That was fun. Tony just had such a fast car there at the end,\'\' said Edwards. "We\'re back. We\'re scoring points and we\'re contended for wins. I\'m excited about going to Richmond and real excited about starting The Chase.\'\'
Four-time series defending champion Jimmie Johnson ran third and was followed by Jeff Burton and Kyle Busch.
The top-10 drivers in the points standings locked down spots in The Chase and rounding out the top-10 finishers at Atlanta were Kurt Busch Clint Bowyer, Ryan Newman, Juan Montoya and Marcos Ambrose.
"It was really a good night. There were times where we lost a handle on the car,\'\' said Johnson. "Glad to get a good run on a track that\'s been tough on us.\'\'
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - It had been about a year since Tony Stewart last got to Victory Lane, and Sunday night he used some great pit stops to get track position and win the Emory Healthcare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Stewart had to fend fight off a couple of late restarts and led 175 of 325 laps in scoring his first Sprint Cup win of the season.
"I didn\'t hit a restart all night until right there at the end,\'\' said Stewart, who gained two spots in the points standing to fourth. "It was that last stop that got us that track position. I\'ve never been so happy to win in my life.\'\'
Stewart held off former Atlanta winner Carl Edwards for the win as Stewart scored his third Atlanta win and got a boost heading into The Chase in two weeks.
Edwards led 28 laps, was in a position to win and was happy with that as he prepares for another run at The Chase.
"That was fun. Tony just had such a fast car there at the end,\'\' said Edwards. "We\'re back. We\'re scoring points and we\'re contended for wins. I\'m excited about going to Richmond and real excited about starting The Chase.\'\'
Four-time series defending champion Jimmie Johnson ran third and was followed by Jeff Burton and Kyle Busch.
The top-10 drivers in the points standings locked down spots in The Chase and rounding out the top-10 finishers at Atlanta were Kurt Busch Clint Bowyer, Ryan Newman, Juan Montoya and Marcos Ambrose.
"It was really a good night. There were times where we lost a handle on the car,\'\' said Johnson. "Glad to get a good run on a track that\'s been tough on us.\'\'
New York, NY, United States (AHN) - Angel McCoughtry scored 21 points and had five boards, leading the well-rested Atlanta Dream to an 81-75 win over the New York Liberty Sunday night at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.
Sancho Lyttle posted a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds in the win
Erika de Souza also had a double-double after coming off the bench to score 12 and hauling i11 boards for the victors, who reached the conference finals after sweeping Washington.
Despite struggling at the end of the regular season, Atlanta managed to claim the conference\'s last seed.
Meanwhile, the Liberty, who went the limit against Indiana, were paced by Leilani Mitchell, who logged a gamme-best 23 points.
Game 2 of the series shifts to Atlanta Tuesday.
In Phoenix, Ariz., Sue Bird drilled the tie-breaking three-pointer in the final seconds, helping the Seattle Storm advance into the WNBA Finals with a thrilling 91-88 victory over the Phoenix Mercury Sunday in Game 2 of the West Finals.
Bird finished with 16 points and eight helpers, while Swin Cash paced the Storm with 20 points.
Lauren Jackson, the 2010 WNBA MVP added 20 points and eight boards for the victors, who negated the effort by Diana Taurasi, who unloaded a game-best 28 points.
Taurasi, the league\'s leading scorer during the regular season, missed a potential game-tying three-pointer as time expired.
Trailing after three periods, 71-61, Seattle came back in the decisive final frame with Cash tying it at 88-88 following a layup with 36 seconds left.
Bird drained the game-winning three-pointer with 2.8 ticks left
The Storm outscored the Mercury 30-17 in the fourth quarter.
The Storm, appearing in the finals for the first time since winning it all in 2004, will face the winner of the East Conference finals between Atlanta and New York.
New York, NY, United States (AHN) - Angel McCoughtry scored 21 points and had five boards, leading the well-rested Atlanta Dream to an 81-75 win over the New York Liberty Sunday night at Madison Square Garden in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.
Sancho Lyttle posted a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds in the win
Erika de Souza also had a double-double after coming off the bench to score 12 and hauling i11 boards for the victors, who reached the conference finals after sweeping Washington.
Despite struggling at the end of the regular season, Atlanta managed to claim the conference\'s last seed.
Meanwhile, the Liberty, who went the limit against Indiana, were paced by Leilani Mitchell, who logged a gamme-best 23 points.
Game 2 of the series shifts to Atlanta Tuesday.
In Phoenix, Ariz., Sue Bird drilled the tie-breaking three-pointer in the final seconds, helping the Seattle Storm advance into the WNBA Finals with a thrilling 91-88 victory over the Phoenix Mercury Sunday in Game 2 of the West Finals.
Bird finished with 16 points and eight helpers, while Swin Cash paced the Storm with 20 points.
Lauren Jackson, the 2010 WNBA MVP added 20 points and eight boards for the victors, who negated the effort by Diana Taurasi, who unloaded a game-best 28 points.
Taurasi, the league\'s leading scorer during the regular season, missed a potential game-tying three-pointer as time expired.
Trailing after three periods, 71-61, Seattle came back in the decisive final frame with Cash tying it at 88-88 following a layup with 36 seconds left.
Bird drained the game-winning three-pointer with 2.8 ticks left
The Storm outscored the Mercury 30-17 in the fourth quarter.
The Storm, appearing in the finals for the first time since winning it all in 2004, will face the winner of the East Conference finals between Atlanta and New York.
St. Louis, MO, United States (AHN) - Matt Holliday detonated a three-run homer in the sixth to back the solid outing of Chris Carpenter, as the St. Louis Cardinals took the rubbermatch of a three-game set against the Cincinnati Reds 4-2 Sunday at Busch Stadium.
It was the 25th homer of the season for Holliday, who stepped up to the plate after the Reds intentionally walked Albert Pujols in the sixth inning.
That 418-foot home run from Holliday off losing pitcher Homer Bailey gave a 4-2 lead to the Cardinals, who held on for the win.
Carpenter (15-5), who boasted a career 11-3 record with a 2.00 ERA in 17 starts against St. Louis entering Sunday, took over from there by striking out five straight batters in the sixth and seventh.
The Redbirds right-hander, making his major-leading 30th start of the season, struck out a season-high 11 while yielding two runs on six hits without walking a batter in 7 1-3 innings.
Ryan Franklin registered his 24th save for the Cardinals, who took the season series against St. Louis, 12-6.
Bailey (3-3), who posted a 2-0 mark since coming off the 15-day DL with a shoulder problem in August, was charged with all four runs on five hits while walking one and striking out four over six frames for the Reds.
Apart from winning the series against the NL Central-leading Reds, the Cardinals also pulled within seven games of Cincinnati.
St. Louis, MO, United States (AHN) - Matt Holliday detonated a three-run homer in the sixth to back the solid outing of Chris Carpenter, as the St. Louis Cardinals took the rubbermatch of a three-game set against the Cincinnati Reds 4-2 Sunday at Busch Stadium.
It was the 25th homer of the season for Holliday, who stepped up to the plate after the Reds intentionally walked Albert Pujols in the sixth inning.
That 418-foot home run from Holliday off losing pitcher Homer Bailey gave a 4-2 lead to the Cardinals, who held on for the win.
Carpenter (15-5), who boasted a career 11-3 record with a 2.00 ERA in 17 starts against St. Louis entering Sunday, took over from there by striking out five straight batters in the sixth and seventh.
The Redbirds right-hander, making his major-leading 30th start of the season, struck out a season-high 11 while yielding two runs on six hits without walking a batter in 7 1-3 innings.
Ryan Franklin registered his 24th save for the Cardinals, who took the season series against St. Louis, 12-6.
Bailey (3-3), who posted a 2-0 mark since coming off the 15-day DL with a shoulder problem in August, was charged with all four runs on five hits while walking one and striking out four over six frames for the Reds.
Apart from winning the series against the NL Central-leading Reds, the Cardinals also pulled within seven games of Cincinnati.
Chapel Hill, NC, United States (AHN) - John Blake, the associate head football coach at UNC-Chapel Hill, stepped down from his post Sunday night according to the school.
Blake was reportedly a part of the investigation into Tar Heels players\' contact with sports agents.
"[I]t has become apparent to me over the course of the past few weeks that my presence has become a distraction to my family and to this great University, too," Blake said in a statement released by the school.
Thirteen players missed the Tar Heels opener Saturday night, a 30-24 loss to LSU, though Blake did coach.
Part of the suspensions were also due to some of the players activity with a tutor who allegedly did papers for some of them.
Blake will get his salary for the remainder of the season, $74,500.
Blake, a long-time friend and associate of head coach Butch Davis, was largely responsible for the Tar Heels inking standout tackle Marvin Austin.
Blake is also close to NFL agent Gary Wichard, which drew the interest of the NCAA as former UNC defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer is also a client.
Balmer reportedly paid for a trip to a training facility for Austin and former teammate Cam Thomas.
Chapel Hill, NC, United States (AHN) - John Blake, the associate head football coach at UNC-Chapel Hill, stepped down from his post Sunday night according to the school.
Blake was reportedly a part of the investigation into Tar Heels players\' contact with sports agents.
"[I]t has become apparent to me over the course of the past few weeks that my presence has become a distraction to my family and to this great University, too," Blake said in a statement released by the school.
Thirteen players missed the Tar Heels opener Saturday night, a 30-24 loss to LSU, though Blake did coach.
Part of the suspensions were also due to some of the players activity with a tutor who allegedly did papers for some of them.
Blake will get his salary for the remainder of the season, $74,500.
Blake, a long-time friend and associate of head coach Butch Davis, was largely responsible for the Tar Heels inking standout tackle Marvin Austin.
Blake is also close to NFL agent Gary Wichard, which drew the interest of the NCAA as former UNC defensive tackle Kentwan Balmer is also a client.
Balmer reportedly paid for a trip to a training facility for Austin and former teammate Cam Thomas.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - World No. 1 Rafael Nadal is on track in reaching his first U.S. Open final as he led the Spanish charge into the quarterfinals with a sweep of Gilles Simon in straight sets Sunday in the third round of the New York event.
The eight-major titlist Nadal, who is vying to win a U.S. Open title to complete a career Grand Slam, demolished his French foe in 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 fashion to advance into the fourth round.
The top-seed Nadal highlighted Spanish players who won in the top half of the draw Sunday.
Nadal will next play fellow Spanish compatriot Feliciano Lopez (No. 23), who advanced after Sergiy Stakhovsky of Ukaraine retired with a score at 6-3, 4-0.
Spanish eight-seed Fernando Verdasco also booked a fourth-round slot following a four-set conquest of Argentina\'s David Nalbandian (No. 31), while No. 10th seed Spaniard dropped compatriot Daniel Gimeno-Traver, 7-6 (7-2), 6-2, 6-2.
Stanislas Wawrinka, 25th seed, also secured a fourth-round berth after stunning British fourth-seed Andy Murray, 6-7 (3-7), 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-3.
Wawrinka could meet in the next round No. 20th seed American Sam Querrey, who matched his best outing at a Grand Slam tournament by toppling Spanish 14th seed Nicolas Almagro, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
Meanwhile, 18th-seeded American John Isner is slated to face Russian Mikhail Youzhny in a later match Sunday.
On the women\'s draw, former No. 1 Kim Clijsters and No. 3-seed Venus Williams reached the quarterfinals after disposing of their respective assignments Sunday.
The second-seeded reigning champion Clijsters dismissed former top-ranked Ana Ivanovic in straight sets 6-2, 6-1, to advance to her fourth straight quarterfinal here.
Clijsters, who became the first mother to win a Grand Slam title in 29 years after defeating Caroline Wozniacki in last year\'s finale here, will next be tested by either fifth-seeded Samantha Stosur or 12th- seeded Russian Elena Dementieva.
Stosur and Dementieva square off later Sunday.
Former top-ranked American star Williams also advanced after prevailing over a gutsy Shahar Peer (No. 16), 7-6 (7-3), 6-3.
Williams, the last woman to win back-to-back US Open titles when she triumphed here in 2000 and 2001, will be clashing with sixth-seeded Francesca Schiavone, the French Open champion, for a semi-final spot.
Schiavone outclassed 20th-seeded Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, 6-3, 6-0.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - World No. 1 Rafael Nadal is on track in reaching his first U.S. Open final as he led the Spanish charge into the quarterfinals with a sweep of Gilles Simon in straight sets Sunday in the third round of the New York event.
The eight-major titlist Nadal, who is vying to win a U.S. Open title to complete a career Grand Slam, demolished his French foe in 6-4, 6-4, 6-2 fashion to advance into the fourth round.
The top-seed Nadal highlighted Spanish players who won in the top half of the draw Sunday.
Nadal will next play fellow Spanish compatriot Feliciano Lopez (No. 23), who advanced after Sergiy Stakhovsky of Ukaraine retired with a score at 6-3, 4-0.
Spanish eight-seed Fernando Verdasco also booked a fourth-round slot following a four-set conquest of Argentina\'s David Nalbandian (No. 31), while No. 10th seed Spaniard dropped compatriot Daniel Gimeno-Traver, 7-6 (7-2), 6-2, 6-2.
Stanislas Wawrinka, 25th seed, also secured a fourth-round berth after stunning British fourth-seed Andy Murray, 6-7 (3-7), 7-6 (7-4), 6-3, 6-3.
Wawrinka could meet in the next round No. 20th seed American Sam Querrey, who matched his best outing at a Grand Slam tournament by toppling Spanish 14th seed Nicolas Almagro, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.
Meanwhile, 18th-seeded American John Isner is slated to face Russian Mikhail Youzhny in a later match Sunday.
On the women\'s draw, former No. 1 Kim Clijsters and No. 3-seed Venus Williams reached the quarterfinals after disposing of their respective assignments Sunday.
The second-seeded reigning champion Clijsters dismissed former top-ranked Ana Ivanovic in straight sets 6-2, 6-1, to advance to her fourth straight quarterfinal here.
Clijsters, who became the first mother to win a Grand Slam title in 29 years after defeating Caroline Wozniacki in last year\'s finale here, will next be tested by either fifth-seeded Samantha Stosur or 12th- seeded Russian Elena Dementieva.
Stosur and Dementieva square off later Sunday.
Former top-ranked American star Williams also advanced after prevailing over a gutsy Shahar Peer (No. 16), 7-6 (7-3), 6-3.
Williams, the last woman to win back-to-back US Open titles when she triumphed here in 2000 and 2001, will be clashing with sixth-seeded Francesca Schiavone, the French Open champion, for a semi-final spot.
Schiavone outclassed 20th-seeded Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, 6-3, 6-0.
Monterey, CA, United States (AHN) - Ted Schulz claimed his first victory on the Champions Tour Sunday and he had to survive a final round charge by Tom Pernice Jr. to do it.
Schulz, the leader going into the final round of the First Tee Open at the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links, started the day four shots clear of Pernice.
Pernice got off to a sensational start, he was five under through the first six holes after he made an eagle at the par five sixth.
He bogeyed the seventh but still made the turn in 32, four under and made up two shots on Schulz, who had his own eagle at the sixth and shot 34 on the front nine.
Schulz bogeyed the par four 11th, then Pernice made a birdie at the par three 12th to tie for the lead. It stayed that way until Pernice bogeyed the par four 16th.
With a one-shot lead, Schulz birdied the 17th, the hole he bogeyed on Saturday. That deuce on the famous hole proved the winning edge.
Schulz\' final round 70 gave him a 14-under par 202 total. Pernice was solo second at 203 after his five-under par 67.
Tom Kite and Mark Calcavecchia closed with 60s and tied at 204. Freddie Couples shot 68 for a 205 and finished alone in fifth.
Monterey, CA, United States (AHN) - Ted Schulz claimed his first victory on the Champions Tour Sunday and he had to survive a final round charge by Tom Pernice Jr. to do it.
Schulz, the leader going into the final round of the First Tee Open at the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links, started the day four shots clear of Pernice.
Pernice got off to a sensational start, he was five under through the first six holes after he made an eagle at the par five sixth.
He bogeyed the seventh but still made the turn in 32, four under and made up two shots on Schulz, who had his own eagle at the sixth and shot 34 on the front nine.
Schulz bogeyed the par four 11th, then Pernice made a birdie at the par three 12th to tie for the lead. It stayed that way until Pernice bogeyed the par four 16th.
With a one-shot lead, Schulz birdied the 17th, the hole he bogeyed on Saturday. That deuce on the famous hole proved the winning edge.
Schulz\' final round 70 gave him a 14-under par 202 total. Pernice was solo second at 203 after his five-under par 67.
Tom Kite and Mark Calcavecchia closed with 60s and tied at 204. Freddie Couples shot 68 for a 205 and finished alone in fifth.
Norton, MA, United States (AHN) - Jason Day and Brandt Snedeker dueled all day Sunday during the third round of the Deutsche Bank Championship.
They get to do it again on Monday at the TPC Boston.
Day two-putted from the back of the green at the 18th hole for a closing birdie that gave him a 54-hole record tying 196 total, one better than his playing partner, Snedeker.
It look as if he\'d be two shots better. Snedeker was en route to making a mess of the final hole.
His drive found the light rough just off the right side of the fairway, but his second shot from 219 yards came up well short and found the hazard short of the green.
Snedeker dropped and didn\'t hit his fourth the way he wanted, it stopped in some long grass in the front of the green, just under 40 feet short of the hole.
He was staring directly at bogey and a two shot swing. He was tied at the time with Day at 16-under. Snedeker proceeded to hole out his pitch for a par five to finish with a 67 .
Day\'s birdie gave him the one-shot cushion with 18 to play. His 66 for the day and 17-under mark tied Mike Weir (2008) for the three-round course record.
"I played great," said the 22-year-old Aussie. "Just had one little mistake out there. I\'m happy with how I played and how I handled myself."
His play has been superb and his "little mistake" was a three-putt at the 16th hole. He missed a four-footer for par. It was his first bogey in 45 holes and his first three-putt of the tournament.
Snedeker got a two-shot swing there when he made a 12-footer for birdie at the par three hole then pulled even with Day at the 17th when he made another birdie to get to 16-under.
If either player falters during the final round, there are plenty of stars lined up behind them.
Luke Donald shot 66 and is alone at 15-under. "It\'s a lot of fun," Donald said. "I felt more relaxed. I\'m just enjoying being here," he said as he looks forward to the upcoming Ryder Cup competition.
Steve Stricker, a solid contender for the FedEx Cup, was in with a 67 and was tied with Charley Hoffman at 13-under par (200).
Conditions were more testing for the field as winds blew consistently and gusted as high at 15-20 miles per hour at times. Phil Mickelson had a successful day with a 67 but is five shots off the pace and will need a low round on Monday.
"I\'m trying to turn it around," Mickelson said of his play after a poor showing and a missed cut at the Barclays. "I want to finish the year strong and tomorrow (Monday) should be a fun day.
Mickelson was in a group with Charlie Wi and the duo of Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy, who shot the low rounds of the day, a pair of 65s.
FedEx points leader Matt Kuchar, who started the day just behind Day and Snedeker, struggled with errant iron shots during the third round and finished with a one-over par 72 and stands at 10-under.
Tiger Woods shot 69 on Sunday and is 10 shots behind at 206, seven-under.
Norton, MA, United States (AHN) - Jason Day and Brandt Snedeker dueled all day Sunday during the third round of the Deutsche Bank Championship.
They get to do it again on Monday at the TPC Boston.
Day two-putted from the back of the green at the 18th hole for a closing birdie that gave him a 54-hole record tying 196 total, one better than his playing partner, Snedeker.
It look as if he\'d be two shots better. Snedeker was en route to making a mess of the final hole.
His drive found the light rough just off the right side of the fairway, but his second shot from 219 yards came up well short and found the hazard short of the green.
Snedeker dropped and didn\'t hit his fourth the way he wanted, it stopped in some long grass in the front of the green, just under 40 feet short of the hole.
He was staring directly at bogey and a two shot swing. He was tied at the time with Day at 16-under. Snedeker proceeded to hole out his pitch for a par five to finish with a 67 .
Day\'s birdie gave him the one-shot cushion with 18 to play. His 66 for the day and 17-under mark tied Mike Weir (2008) for the three-round course record.
"I played great," said the 22-year-old Aussie. "Just had one little mistake out there. I\'m happy with how I played and how I handled myself."
His play has been superb and his "little mistake" was a three-putt at the 16th hole. He missed a four-footer for par. It was his first bogey in 45 holes and his first three-putt of the tournament.
Snedeker got a two-shot swing there when he made a 12-footer for birdie at the par three hole then pulled even with Day at the 17th when he made another birdie to get to 16-under.
If either player falters during the final round, there are plenty of stars lined up behind them.
Luke Donald shot 66 and is alone at 15-under. "It\'s a lot of fun," Donald said. "I felt more relaxed. I\'m just enjoying being here," he said as he looks forward to the upcoming Ryder Cup competition.
Steve Stricker, a solid contender for the FedEx Cup, was in with a 67 and was tied with Charley Hoffman at 13-under par (200).
Conditions were more testing for the field as winds blew consistently and gusted as high at 15-20 miles per hour at times. Phil Mickelson had a successful day with a 67 but is five shots off the pace and will need a low round on Monday.
"I\'m trying to turn it around," Mickelson said of his play after a poor showing and a missed cut at the Barclays. "I want to finish the year strong and tomorrow (Monday) should be a fun day.
Mickelson was in a group with Charlie Wi and the duo of Adam Scott and Geoff Ogilvy, who shot the low rounds of the day, a pair of 65s.
FedEx points leader Matt Kuchar, who started the day just behind Day and Snedeker, struggled with errant iron shots during the third round and finished with a one-over par 72 and stands at 10-under.
Tiger Woods shot 69 on Sunday and is 10 shots behind at 206, seven-under.
Istanbul, Turkey (AHN) - Jaka Lakovic scored 19 points, including five 3-pointers, as Slovenia crushed Australia in the round of 16 with an 87-58 demolition Sunday to reach the reach the quarterfinals of the 2010 FIBA World Championships.
Lakovic sparked an offensive burst in the opening period with a three-point bomb, as Slovenia roared out from the starting gate with a 9-0 surge.
The Australia squad struggled offensively in the opening six and a half minutes of the contest, managing to score eight points in the first quarter.
After raising to a 16-8 edge at the end of period, Slovenia started to pull away in the second quarter by drilling 6-for-10 from the 3-point area in the period.
Slovenia, ranked 15th among the 24 teams after converting just 33 percent from the 3-point arc in pool play, drained 16-of-33 from downtown for a whopping 48.5 percent.
Slovenia erected a 42-21 lead at halftime without former New Jersey Nets forward Bostjan Nachbar netting a single point.
Nachbar, a 2002 draft pick by the Houston Rockets, finished with eight points with two three-pointers and four boards for the victors.
Primoz Brezec of the Milwaukee Bucks ended with 12 points, while Goran Dragic added 10 points and eight assists for Slovenia, which will next play Turkey, a 95-77 conqueror of France.
Portland Trail Blazers\' Patrick Mills tried to rally the Boomers with his usual burst of speed and slashing moves into the hoop, but managed to finish only 13 points in the loss.
Joseph Ingles, one of Aussies\' scoring threat, also finished with 13 markers, while Matthew Nielson logged 12 points and eight rebounds for Australia, which shot 18 of 58 from the field and 10 percent from the 3-point arc (2-of-19).
With the triumph, Slovenia improved to 5-1 at the World Championship. It\'s only setback came at the hands of Team USA.
Hedo Turkoglu scored 20 points and Sinan Guler added 17 for Turkey, which rolled before a near-capacity crowd.
Boris Diaw of the Charlotte Bobcats poured in 21 points for France, with Nando de Colo chipping in 15.
Istanbul, Turkey (AHN) - Jaka Lakovic scored 19 points, including five 3-pointers, as Slovenia crushed Australia in the round of 16 with an 87-58 demolition Sunday to reach the reach the quarterfinals of the 2010 FIBA World Championships.
Lakovic sparked an offensive burst in the opening period with a three-point bomb, as Slovenia roared out from the starting gate with a 9-0 surge.
The Australia squad struggled offensively in the opening six and a half minutes of the contest, managing to score eight points in the first quarter.
After raising to a 16-8 edge at the end of period, Slovenia started to pull away in the second quarter by drilling 6-for-10 from the 3-point area in the period.
Slovenia, ranked 15th among the 24 teams after converting just 33 percent from the 3-point arc in pool play, drained 16-of-33 from downtown for a whopping 48.5 percent.
Slovenia erected a 42-21 lead at halftime without former New Jersey Nets forward Bostjan Nachbar netting a single point.
Nachbar, a 2002 draft pick by the Houston Rockets, finished with eight points with two three-pointers and four boards for the victors.
Primoz Brezec of the Milwaukee Bucks ended with 12 points, while Goran Dragic added 10 points and eight assists for Slovenia, which will next play Turkey, a 95-77 conqueror of France.
Portland Trail Blazers\' Patrick Mills tried to rally the Boomers with his usual burst of speed and slashing moves into the hoop, but managed to finish only 13 points in the loss.
Joseph Ingles, one of Aussies\' scoring threat, also finished with 13 markers, while Matthew Nielson logged 12 points and eight rebounds for Australia, which shot 18 of 58 from the field and 10 percent from the 3-point arc (2-of-19).
With the triumph, Slovenia improved to 5-1 at the World Championship. It\'s only setback came at the hands of Team USA.
Hedo Turkoglu scored 20 points and Sinan Guler added 17 for Turkey, which rolled before a near-capacity crowd.
Boris Diaw of the Charlotte Bobcats poured in 21 points for France, with Nando de Colo chipping in 15.
East Lansing, MiI, United States (AHN) - Le\'Veon Bell was playing high school football at Groveport Madison High School in Ohio last fall.
But on the opening day of college football season, Bell showed he knows how to get attention in a hurry.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pound freshman tailback for Michigan State rushed for 141 yards on only 10 carries, including a 75-yard outburst, to ignite MSU over Western Michigan University 38-14 Saturday at Spartan Stadium.
"That was a great experience," Bell said. "I always dreamed about starting like that for my first time on a college field. It was great to come out here and have a pretty good game."
Bell became the first Michigan State freshman tailback to rush for 100 yards in his first collegiate game.
"I\'m proud of myself," he said. "I put in a lot of hard work but I couldn\'t have done any without my offensive line. They were opening up holes and allowing me to show my talent."
Others on the MSU sidelines were impressed with what they saw with Bell.
"I\'ve talked to many of you about him already," said MSU offensive coordinator Don Treadwell. "He\'s been a pleasant surprise as far back as the spring. When he enrolled early last spring, he immediately got the attention of his coaches, as well as his teammates with just his natural ability."
"He has the size you like for a Big Ten back. But those certain things he has that we call intangibles, he has those. He exhibited those out there today. He has great vision for a running back. He has excellent feet for a guy his size. We think the sky is the limit ."
"Le\'Veon played very well," said MSU coach Mark Antonio. "He had opportunities."
Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins agreed.
"It wasn\'t too much of a surprise, but you have to remember he\'s a true freshman and it\'s his first year in college," Cousins said. "It was pretty impressive the way he ran the ball."
"I was really nervous," Bell said. "My first play was actually a punt so it wasn\'t as bad as it would have been on offense. I was very nervous when I got out there but once I took that first hit, all the butterflies went away."
Sophomore Edwin Baker didn\'t have a bad game either with 117 yards on 17 carries.
Larry Caper, an MSU sophomore tailback, who earned Big Ten Freshmen honors last season, sat out the game with an injured hand, giving Bell a chance to show his stuff.
"We knew Larry wasn\'t going to play on Tuesday or Wednesday so they told me I might play a lot," Bell said. "It was a great opportunity for me.
"Since there\'s three of us that can carry the ball, I guess it\'s whoever has the hot hand, whoever is feeling it and in the zone—that\'s who the coaches will feed the ball to and will get the reps."
It gave Bell the chance to have his stirring 75-yard run from scrimmage in the second quarter to electrify the more than 75,000 fans at Spartan Stadium.
"The defense over pursued on one side of the ball so I cut back and the line pushed everyone my side. I ran up the sideline and I was trying to get Keshawn\'s (Martin) block in time and I did my best."
Bell enrolled at MSU last January. He was a three-year starter at Groveport Madison High and rushed 200 times for 1,333 yards (6.7) average and 21 touchdowns in 2009. He had 30 carries for 336 yards in one game.
"I wanted to come into school and play," he said. "That was one of the biggest things. Not everyone thought I could come in and play this level of football. I had a chip on my shoulder and wanted to show everybody that I can play. I think that made me play better."
East Lansing, MiI, United States (AHN) - Le\'Veon Bell was playing high school football at Groveport Madison High School in Ohio last fall.
But on the opening day of college football season, Bell showed he knows how to get attention in a hurry.
The 6-foot-2, 230-pound freshman tailback for Michigan State rushed for 141 yards on only 10 carries, including a 75-yard outburst, to ignite MSU over Western Michigan University 38-14 Saturday at Spartan Stadium.
"That was a great experience," Bell said. "I always dreamed about starting like that for my first time on a college field. It was great to come out here and have a pretty good game."
Bell became the first Michigan State freshman tailback to rush for 100 yards in his first collegiate game.
"I\'m proud of myself," he said. "I put in a lot of hard work but I couldn\'t have done any without my offensive line. They were opening up holes and allowing me to show my talent."
Others on the MSU sidelines were impressed with what they saw with Bell.
"I\'ve talked to many of you about him already," said MSU offensive coordinator Don Treadwell. "He\'s been a pleasant surprise as far back as the spring. When he enrolled early last spring, he immediately got the attention of his coaches, as well as his teammates with just his natural ability."
"He has the size you like for a Big Ten back. But those certain things he has that we call intangibles, he has those. He exhibited those out there today. He has great vision for a running back. He has excellent feet for a guy his size. We think the sky is the limit ."
"Le\'Veon played very well," said MSU coach Mark Antonio. "He had opportunities."
Michigan State quarterback Kirk Cousins agreed.
"It wasn\'t too much of a surprise, but you have to remember he\'s a true freshman and it\'s his first year in college," Cousins said. "It was pretty impressive the way he ran the ball."
"I was really nervous," Bell said. "My first play was actually a punt so it wasn\'t as bad as it would have been on offense. I was very nervous when I got out there but once I took that first hit, all the butterflies went away."
Sophomore Edwin Baker didn\'t have a bad game either with 117 yards on 17 carries.
Larry Caper, an MSU sophomore tailback, who earned Big Ten Freshmen honors last season, sat out the game with an injured hand, giving Bell a chance to show his stuff.
"We knew Larry wasn\'t going to play on Tuesday or Wednesday so they told me I might play a lot," Bell said. "It was a great opportunity for me.
"Since there\'s three of us that can carry the ball, I guess it\'s whoever has the hot hand, whoever is feeling it and in the zone—that\'s who the coaches will feed the ball to and will get the reps."
It gave Bell the chance to have his stirring 75-yard run from scrimmage in the second quarter to electrify the more than 75,000 fans at Spartan Stadium.
"The defense over pursued on one side of the ball so I cut back and the line pushed everyone my side. I ran up the sideline and I was trying to get Keshawn\'s (Martin) block in time and I did my best."
Bell enrolled at MSU last January. He was a three-year starter at Groveport Madison High and rushed 200 times for 1,333 yards (6.7) average and 21 touchdowns in 2009. He had 30 carries for 336 yards in one game.
"I wanted to come into school and play," he said. "That was one of the biggest things. Not everyone thought I could come in and play this level of football. I had a chip on my shoulder and wanted to show everybody that I can play. I think that made me play better."
St. Louis, MO, United States (AHN) - The St. Louis Rams ushered a new era of competitive football after naming top pick quarterback Sam Bradford as their starter for the upcoming 2010-2011 NFL season, multiple sources reported Saturday.
Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo confirmed Bradford will assume the starting quarterback role after competing with veteran A. J. Feeley at training camp.
Bradford, 2008 Heisman Trophy winner, completed 33 of 55 passes for 338 yards with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions over four preseason outings.
Bradford, who inked a six-year, $78 million deal ($50 million guaranteed) with the Rams, struggled in the first two exhibition games, but virtually secured the starting job after an impressive performance against the New England Patriots.
In his third preseason game, the former Oklahoma quarterback star completed 15 for 22 passes for 189 yards, including two TD passes in the first half to post a 36-35 win.
Although there are plenty of assignments for Bradford to work on, Spagnuolo believes the young signal caller has the ability to lead a team.
"Well, it was evident in these last three games," Spagnuolo told USA Today Saturday "He had pretty good control of what we were doing. The team kind of rallies around him."
St. Louis, MO, United States (AHN) - The St. Louis Rams ushered a new era of competitive football after naming top pick quarterback Sam Bradford as their starter for the upcoming 2010-2011 NFL season, multiple sources reported Saturday.
Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo confirmed Bradford will assume the starting quarterback role after competing with veteran A. J. Feeley at training camp.
Bradford, 2008 Heisman Trophy winner, completed 33 of 55 passes for 338 yards with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions over four preseason outings.
Bradford, who inked a six-year, $78 million deal ($50 million guaranteed) with the Rams, struggled in the first two exhibition games, but virtually secured the starting job after an impressive performance against the New England Patriots.
In his third preseason game, the former Oklahoma quarterback star completed 15 for 22 passes for 189 yards, including two TD passes in the first half to post a 36-35 win.
Although there are plenty of assignments for Bradford to work on, Spagnuolo believes the young signal caller has the ability to lead a team.
"Well, it was evident in these last three games," Spagnuolo told USA Today Saturday "He had pretty good control of what we were doing. The team kind of rallies around him."
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Help is on its way for the New York Yankees, as starting pitcher Andy Pettitte prepares for a much awaited return from the disabled list this month.
A Yankees insider disclosed Pettitte is close to returning from the disabled list following a successful three-inning simulated game where he pitched to A-Rod.
Pettitte, who\'s been sidelined with a groin injury since July 29, will likely spend some time in the minors and return tentatively on September 13.
Pettitte could make 65 throws in the minors, probably Wednesday, and hurl the 75-80 pitch limit in his expected comeback with the Yankees.
A-Rod, out with a strained calf since August 21, returned from the DL Sunday after dealing with a strained calf.
He grounded into a fielders\' choice in his first at-bat, and the Yanks faced an early 4-0 deficit.
Rodriguez, who became the youngest player to record 600 homers last month (35 years and 8 days old), could provide the Bronx Bombers the batting firepower they need in this stage of the season.
The Yankees (84-50) are currently 1.5 games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays (82-51) in the hotly-contested race for the top spot in AL East.
Yankees manager Joe Girardi is confident his Yankees will continue their strong play.
Girardi added both Rodriguez and Pettitte did well during the simulated game.
After blasting several homers in the batting cage, Rodriguez went 1-for-4 off Pettitte, with Reggie "Mr. October" Jackson doing the umpiring Saturday.
"I felt good, [Pettitte] looked great. I\'m glad I don\'t have to face him every day." Rodriguez told ESPN Friday about batting against his experienced teammate.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Help is on its way for the New York Yankees, as starting pitcher Andy Pettitte prepares for a much awaited return from the disabled list this month.
A Yankees insider disclosed Pettitte is close to returning from the disabled list following a successful three-inning simulated game where he pitched to A-Rod.
Pettitte, who\'s been sidelined with a groin injury since July 29, will likely spend some time in the minors and return tentatively on September 13.
Pettitte could make 65 throws in the minors, probably Wednesday, and hurl the 75-80 pitch limit in his expected comeback with the Yankees.
A-Rod, out with a strained calf since August 21, returned from the DL Sunday after dealing with a strained calf.
He grounded into a fielders\' choice in his first at-bat, and the Yanks faced an early 4-0 deficit.
Rodriguez, who became the youngest player to record 600 homers last month (35 years and 8 days old), could provide the Bronx Bombers the batting firepower they need in this stage of the season.
The Yankees (84-50) are currently 1.5 games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays (82-51) in the hotly-contested race for the top spot in AL East.
Yankees manager Joe Girardi is confident his Yankees will continue their strong play.
Girardi added both Rodriguez and Pettitte did well during the simulated game.
After blasting several homers in the batting cage, Rodriguez went 1-for-4 off Pettitte, with Reggie "Mr. October" Jackson doing the umpiring Saturday.
"I felt good, [Pettitte] looked great. I\'m glad I don\'t have to face him every day." Rodriguez told ESPN Friday about batting against his experienced teammate.
Arlington, TX, United States (AHN) - The Texas Rangers suffered a double whammy, as outfielder Josh Hamilton and shortstop Elvis Andrus left the game with injuries in a loss to the Minnesota Twins Saturday.
Hamilton, 29, sustained a bruised rib on his left side after he smashed into the centerfield wall in the fifth inning of Saturday\'s 12-4 defeat to the Twins.
Sources indicated Hamilton\'s MRI examination result showed no fractured bones in his ribs.
Rangers manager Ron Washington nevertheless was cautious on Hamilton\'s situation, considering the slugger day-to-day.
Hamilton, a three-time All-Star, was expected to miss Sunday\'s match and skip another Monday in Toronto.
Hamilton\'s battled several injuries lately, which includes hurting his right knee in a game against the Oakland Athletics last Sunday.
Washington assigned the veteran outfielder to designated hitter for two days, and sat him Wednesday after being injected of an anti-inflammatory lubricant called Synvisc following Tuesday\'s game.
Hamilton served as DH in Friday\'s game in Minnesota, but was affected by pain in his lower back.
After undergoing physical therapy, Hamilton returned Saturday and eventually bruised his ribs.
Joining Hamilton on the sideline was 22-year-old sparkplug Elvis Andrus.
Andrus, who also left in the fourth inning of Saturday\'s ballgame, will likely miss the next two games with a tight right hamstring.
The Rangers (75-58) hope Hamilton and Andrus won\'t sit long, as they look to secure the top spot in the AL West standings.
Hamilton is averaging .361 with 31 homers, 97 RBI, 94 runs, 8 stolen bases in 130 games, while Andrus is hitting .276 with 33 RBI and 77 runs in 129 games this season.
Arlington, TX, United States (AHN) - The Texas Rangers suffered a double whammy, as outfielder Josh Hamilton and shortstop Elvis Andrus left the game with injuries in a loss to the Minnesota Twins Saturday.
Hamilton, 29, sustained a bruised rib on his left side after he smashed into the centerfield wall in the fifth inning of Saturday\'s 12-4 defeat to the Twins.
Sources indicated Hamilton\'s MRI examination result showed no fractured bones in his ribs.
Rangers manager Ron Washington nevertheless was cautious on Hamilton\'s situation, considering the slugger day-to-day.
Hamilton, a three-time All-Star, was expected to miss Sunday\'s match and skip another Monday in Toronto.
Hamilton\'s battled several injuries lately, which includes hurting his right knee in a game against the Oakland Athletics last Sunday.
Washington assigned the veteran outfielder to designated hitter for two days, and sat him Wednesday after being injected of an anti-inflammatory lubricant called Synvisc following Tuesday\'s game.
Hamilton served as DH in Friday\'s game in Minnesota, but was affected by pain in his lower back.
After undergoing physical therapy, Hamilton returned Saturday and eventually bruised his ribs.
Joining Hamilton on the sideline was 22-year-old sparkplug Elvis Andrus.
Andrus, who also left in the fourth inning of Saturday\'s ballgame, will likely miss the next two games with a tight right hamstring.
The Rangers (75-58) hope Hamilton and Andrus won\'t sit long, as they look to secure the top spot in the AL West standings.
Hamilton is averaging .361 with 31 homers, 97 RBI, 94 runs, 8 stolen bases in 130 games, while Andrus is hitting .276 with 33 RBI and 77 runs in 129 games this season.
Miami, FL, United States (AHN) - Logan Morrison stroked an RBI triple and Hanley Ramirez added a run-scoring single, helping the Florida Marlins to a 3-0 lead over the Atlanta Braves Sunday in the first MLB game of the afternoon.
Marlins starter Alex Sanabia fanned three batters in his first two frames.
Mike Minor is getting knocked around for the Braves, allowing six hits in two innings, including Wes Helms\' RBI double.
The Braves are clinging to a one-game lead over the Phillies in the NL East, while the Marlins are attempting to gain ground in the Wild Card chase.
Miami, FL, United States (AHN) - Logan Morrison stroked an RBI triple and Hanley Ramirez added a run-scoring single, helping the Florida Marlins to a 3-0 lead over the Atlanta Braves Sunday in the first MLB game of the afternoon.
Marlins starter Alex Sanabia fanned three batters in his first two frames.
Mike Minor is getting knocked around for the Braves, allowing six hits in two innings, including Wes Helms\' RBI double.
The Braves are clinging to a one-game lead over the Phillies in the NL East, while the Marlins are attempting to gain ground in the Wild Card chase.
Glendale, AZ, United States (AHN) - Roughly four years after a decorated college football career, former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart found himself jobless after he was released by the Arizona Cardinals Saturday.
The Cardinals announced Saturday they cut Leinart from their roster after failing to find a legitimate trade partner for the former USC quarterback standout.
Selected 10th overall in the 2006 NFL entry draft, Leinart saw his football career spiral, as inconsistency and injuries marred his four-year tenure with the Cardinals.
Leinart, the Cardinals No.2 quarterback last season, was expected to assume the starting role following the retirement of two-time NFL MVP Kurt Warner.
However, veteran Derek Anderson won the starting job due to his consistent performance throughout the training camp and preseason games.
Multiple sources indicated the Cardinals searched for a trade partner interested to acquire Leinart, but reportedly not one NFL team had inquired about the 27-year-old signal caller.
Football followers believed the Buffalo Bills and the Jacksonville Jaguars are the best teams for Leinart, although neither of the teams showed interest in acquiring the quarterback.
The Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans were also viewed as potential landing spots for Leinart.
Perhaps the Seattle Seahawks, where his former USC mentor Pete Carroll is coaching, would be an interesting place for Leinart to emerge, as one report suggested.
Glendale, AZ, United States (AHN) - Roughly four years after a decorated college football career, former Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart found himself jobless after he was released by the Arizona Cardinals Saturday.
The Cardinals announced Saturday they cut Leinart from their roster after failing to find a legitimate trade partner for the former USC quarterback standout.
Selected 10th overall in the 2006 NFL entry draft, Leinart saw his football career spiral, as inconsistency and injuries marred his four-year tenure with the Cardinals.
Leinart, the Cardinals No.2 quarterback last season, was expected to assume the starting role following the retirement of two-time NFL MVP Kurt Warner.
However, veteran Derek Anderson won the starting job due to his consistent performance throughout the training camp and preseason games.
Multiple sources indicated the Cardinals searched for a trade partner interested to acquire Leinart, but reportedly not one NFL team had inquired about the 27-year-old signal caller.
Football followers believed the Buffalo Bills and the Jacksonville Jaguars are the best teams for Leinart, although neither of the teams showed interest in acquiring the quarterback.
The Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Redskins, Minnesota Vikings, Houston Texans were also viewed as potential landing spots for Leinart.
Perhaps the Seattle Seahawks, where his former USC mentor Pete Carroll is coaching, would be an interesting place for Leinart to emerge, as one report suggested.
Cleveland, OH, United States (AHN) - With Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace firmly entrenched as the Browns\' No. 1 and 2 quarterbacks heading into the season, rookie Colt McCoy did everything he could to ensure he would be penciled in as the third stringer in Cleveland\'s 13-10 win over the Chicago Bears in a preseason finale.
McCoy\'s night got off to an inauspicious start when he fumbled the snap on Cleveland\'s first play from scrimmage. The turnover allowed Chicago to take possession of the football at the Cleveland 19-yard line.
"We were frustrated, obviously, the first play of the game. We turned the ball over and you never want that," McCoy said. "That\'s really unacceptable, but it\'s just one of those things that happens. "
McCoy was quick to shake off his miscue, as the third round pick from Texas went on to complete all 13 of his passes for 131 yards.
McCoy and the Cleveland offensive unit caught a bit of a break when Oakland fumbled the ball away on their own 13-yard line. After three straight carries by rookie running back Montario Hardesty, the Browns had tied the game at 7-7.
McCoy played a much larger role in Cleveland\'s second scoring drive of the first half, leading the Browns 69 yards on 11 plays to set up a 24-yard Phil Dawson field goal and a 10-7 lead.
McCoy threw for 55 yards on four completions on the drive.
McCoy played into the third quarter before giving way to Brett Ratliff, and he indicated that he was happy to get some extended playing time.
"That was really pretty special and for a couple of series there, we were going against some of their \'ones,\'" McCoy said. "To be able to drive against them and to score against them, I thought, give credit to all the offensive line and the backs."
Browns coach Eric Mangini complimented his rookie quarterback for his accurate passing at his post-game presser.
"Yes, I thought he had some nice reads, some nice passes. He was an accurate guy in college and you could see his accuracy here tonight," Mangini said.
"As we talked about last week, he\'s made progress throughout the course of the preseason, which is what I was looking for and what I expect. He does have an excellent work ethic, he\'s a smart kid and this is a whole new world in a while new way to prepare for a game than what he\'s used to."
McCoy posted stellar numbers as a four-year starter for the University of Texas, throwing for 13,253 yards and 112 touchdowns, though he was quick to acknowledge that the NFL provides a whole new challenge.
"I still have a long way to go, I\'ll tell you that. But I do feel like this capped it off pretty well," McCoy said. "I think just being in the huddle, leading the guys, calling the plays, being in a drive and being in a rhythm in the first half, I thought that was really good.
McCoy will be regulated back to the bench behind Delhomme and Wallace when the regular season starts, but he closed out the preseason on a positive note.
Still, McCoy indicated that he had hoped to lead his team to a few more scores.
"I would have liked to score some more points, but just to be able to play in a game and get a rhythm going, get a feel for defenses and the guys I\'m playing with, that part was really good."
Cleveland, OH, United States (AHN) - With Jake Delhomme and Seneca Wallace firmly entrenched as the Browns\' No. 1 and 2 quarterbacks heading into the season, rookie Colt McCoy did everything he could to ensure he would be penciled in as the third stringer in Cleveland\'s 13-10 win over the Chicago Bears in a preseason finale.
McCoy\'s night got off to an inauspicious start when he fumbled the snap on Cleveland\'s first play from scrimmage. The turnover allowed Chicago to take possession of the football at the Cleveland 19-yard line.
"We were frustrated, obviously, the first play of the game. We turned the ball over and you never want that," McCoy said. "That\'s really unacceptable, but it\'s just one of those things that happens. "
McCoy was quick to shake off his miscue, as the third round pick from Texas went on to complete all 13 of his passes for 131 yards.
McCoy and the Cleveland offensive unit caught a bit of a break when Oakland fumbled the ball away on their own 13-yard line. After three straight carries by rookie running back Montario Hardesty, the Browns had tied the game at 7-7.
McCoy played a much larger role in Cleveland\'s second scoring drive of the first half, leading the Browns 69 yards on 11 plays to set up a 24-yard Phil Dawson field goal and a 10-7 lead.
McCoy threw for 55 yards on four completions on the drive.
McCoy played into the third quarter before giving way to Brett Ratliff, and he indicated that he was happy to get some extended playing time.
"That was really pretty special and for a couple of series there, we were going against some of their \'ones,\'" McCoy said. "To be able to drive against them and to score against them, I thought, give credit to all the offensive line and the backs."
Browns coach Eric Mangini complimented his rookie quarterback for his accurate passing at his post-game presser.
"Yes, I thought he had some nice reads, some nice passes. He was an accurate guy in college and you could see his accuracy here tonight," Mangini said.
"As we talked about last week, he\'s made progress throughout the course of the preseason, which is what I was looking for and what I expect. He does have an excellent work ethic, he\'s a smart kid and this is a whole new world in a while new way to prepare for a game than what he\'s used to."
McCoy posted stellar numbers as a four-year starter for the University of Texas, throwing for 13,253 yards and 112 touchdowns, though he was quick to acknowledge that the NFL provides a whole new challenge.
"I still have a long way to go, I\'ll tell you that. But I do feel like this capped it off pretty well," McCoy said. "I think just being in the huddle, leading the guys, calling the plays, being in a drive and being in a rhythm in the first half, I thought that was really good.
McCoy will be regulated back to the bench behind Delhomme and Wallace when the regular season starts, but he closed out the preseason on a positive note.
Still, McCoy indicated that he had hoped to lead his team to a few more scores.
"I would have liked to score some more points, but just to be able to play in a game and get a rhythm going, get a feel for defenses and the guys I\'m playing with, that part was really good."
Las Vegas, NV, United States (AHN) - The majority of popular sports betting sites are listing the newly-formed superstar-laden Miami Heat as the favorites to win the 2010-11 NBA title, ahead of defending champions and three-peat seekers the Los Angeles Lakers.
The majority of popular sports betting sites are listing the newly-formed superstar-laden Miami Heat as the favorites to win the 2010-11 NBA title, ahead of defending champions and three-peat seekers the Los Angeles Lakers.
BoDog.com list the Heat at 7/4 odds, while the Lakers are at 11/4. Vegas.com has Miami at 7/5 and Los Angeles at 7/2. Linesmaker.com also favors the Heat, at 8/5 as opposed to the Lakers at 3/1.
Miami, listed on most sites at around 25/1 last season, added superstars LeBron James and Chris Bosh alongside former scoring champion Dwyane Wade in the offseason.
The defending Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic follow up on most betting sites, at odds between 8/1 and 12/1.
The teams least likely to win the NBA Championship, according to most betting sites, are the Sacramento Kings, New Jersey Nets and Toronto Raptors at between 125/1 and 200/1.
The NBA preseason starts Oct. 3 with the regular season tipping off Oct. 26 when Miami visits Boston.
Las Vegas, NV, United States (AHN) - The majority of popular sports betting sites are listing the newly-formed superstar-laden Miami Heat as the favorites to win the 2010-11 NBA title, ahead of defending champions and three-peat seekers the Los Angeles Lakers.
The majority of popular sports betting sites are listing the newly-formed superstar-laden Miami Heat as the favorites to win the 2010-11 NBA title, ahead of defending champions and three-peat seekers the Los Angeles Lakers.
BoDog.com list the Heat at 7/4 odds, while the Lakers are at 11/4. Vegas.com has Miami at 7/5 and Los Angeles at 7/2. Linesmaker.com also favors the Heat, at 8/5 as opposed to the Lakers at 3/1.
Miami, listed on most sites at around 25/1 last season, added superstars LeBron James and Chris Bosh alongside former scoring champion Dwyane Wade in the offseason.
The defending Eastern Conference champion Boston Celtics and the Orlando Magic follow up on most betting sites, at odds between 8/1 and 12/1.
The teams least likely to win the NBA Championship, according to most betting sites, are the Sacramento Kings, New Jersey Nets and Toronto Raptors at between 125/1 and 200/1.
The NBA preseason starts Oct. 3 with the regular season tipping off Oct. 26 when Miami visits Boston.
Sparta, KY, United States (AHN) - Helio Castroneves gambled and used every last ounce of fuel he had to steal a win Saturday night at Kentucky Speedway in the Kentucky Indy 300 IZOD IndyCar Series race.
The Team Penske driver didn\'t necessarily have the best car, but he had the best team strategist in Tim Cindric as Castroneves celebrated the win by climbing the catch-fence after the race.
"We were running good, maybe not the fastest car, but we were running good,\'\' said Castroneves, who made his final pit stop on Lap 147. "We didn\'t have much to lose. We did the same thing we did in 2008 and it paid off this time.\'\'
Ed Carpernter finished second at Kentucky for the second year in a row and was followed across the finish line by Dan Wheldon, Tony Kanaan and Dario Franchitti.
Castroneves stretched his fuel mileage and inherited the lead with four laps to go when race leaders Wheldon and Franchitti pitted for a splash of gas.
"This one I think is more disappointing because we were running strong all weekend,\'\' said Carpenter. "I think we should be proud that there\'s two Panther cars on the podium though.\'\'
Kanaan pitted with eight laps to go, Paul Tracy pitted with seven to go and Danica Patrick pitted with six laps to go and scored a top-10 finish.
"I really thought after I beat Dario out of the pits that we had it,\'\' said Wheldon. "That\'s the way racing goes. I\'m just bummed that we lost that one.\'\'
Marco Andretti, Scott Dixon, Power and Patrick closed out the top-9 finishers as Power maintained his points lead over Franchitti.
Sparta, KY, United States (AHN) - Helio Castroneves gambled and used every last ounce of fuel he had to steal a win Saturday night at Kentucky Speedway in the Kentucky Indy 300 IZOD IndyCar Series race.
The Team Penske driver didn\'t necessarily have the best car, but he had the best team strategist in Tim Cindric as Castroneves celebrated the win by climbing the catch-fence after the race.
"We were running good, maybe not the fastest car, but we were running good,\'\' said Castroneves, who made his final pit stop on Lap 147. "We didn\'t have much to lose. We did the same thing we did in 2008 and it paid off this time.\'\'
Ed Carpernter finished second at Kentucky for the second year in a row and was followed across the finish line by Dan Wheldon, Tony Kanaan and Dario Franchitti.
Castroneves stretched his fuel mileage and inherited the lead with four laps to go when race leaders Wheldon and Franchitti pitted for a splash of gas.
"This one I think is more disappointing because we were running strong all weekend,\'\' said Carpenter. "I think we should be proud that there\'s two Panther cars on the podium though.\'\'
Kanaan pitted with eight laps to go, Paul Tracy pitted with seven to go and Danica Patrick pitted with six laps to go and scored a top-10 finish.
"I really thought after I beat Dario out of the pits that we had it,\'\' said Wheldon. "That\'s the way racing goes. I\'m just bummed that we lost that one.\'\'
Marco Andretti, Scott Dixon, Power and Patrick closed out the top-9 finishers as Power maintained his points lead over Franchitti.
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - Jamie McMurray is having the best season of his NASCAR career and Saturday night it carried over to the Nationwide Series.
Wheeling the No. 88 Chevrolet of JR Motorsports, McMurray led 48 laps and held off fellow NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Kyle Busch to win the Great Clips 300 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Busch, the hottest driver in all three of NASCAR\'s top-3 series, led a race-best 74 laps and scored his second top-five finish in as many nights -- after scoring a top-five run one night prior in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Kentucky Speedway.
Carl Edwards, who made up some ground in the Nationwide championship race, finished third and was followed across the finish line by Kevin Harvick and Matt Kenseth.
Edwards gained a few points, but points leader Brad Keselowski still has a comfortable cushion and tallying a 12th-place finish at Atlanta.
Joey Logano ran sixth and rounding out the top-10 finishers were Jason Leffler, Ryan Newman, Paul Menard and Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
The 195-lap Nationwide event served as a prelude to Sunday night\'s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event as eight of the top-10 finishers in the race are regulars in the Cup Series.
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - Jamie McMurray is having the best season of his NASCAR career and Saturday night it carried over to the Nationwide Series.
Wheeling the No. 88 Chevrolet of JR Motorsports, McMurray led 48 laps and held off fellow NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Kyle Busch to win the Great Clips 300 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
Busch, the hottest driver in all three of NASCAR\'s top-3 series, led a race-best 74 laps and scored his second top-five finish in as many nights -- after scoring a top-five run one night prior in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series race at Kentucky Speedway.
Carl Edwards, who made up some ground in the Nationwide championship race, finished third and was followed across the finish line by Kevin Harvick and Matt Kenseth.
Edwards gained a few points, but points leader Brad Keselowski still has a comfortable cushion and tallying a 12th-place finish at Atlanta.
Joey Logano ran sixth and rounding out the top-10 finishers were Jason Leffler, Ryan Newman, Paul Menard and Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
The 195-lap Nationwide event served as a prelude to Sunday night\'s NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event as eight of the top-10 finishers in the race are regulars in the Cup Series.
Monterey, CA, United States (AHN) - Ted Schulz is the surprise leader of the First Tee Open after shooting an eight-under par 64 at Pebble Beach on Saturday.
Schulz, whose best finish on the Champion\'s Tour this season was a tie for 15th at the Boeing Classic, was dazzling on the back nine at Pebble. He made the turn three-under with a 33 then birdied the 10th and 11th, 13th and 14th, and the 16th and 18th holes coming home.
Only a bogey at 17 prevented him from shooting 30, but the 31 was by far the best effort of the entire field.
His remarkable round gave him a three-shot lead going into the final day over first round leader Mark Calcavecchia. Schulz\'s 64 put him at 12-under after 36 holes, 132.
Calcavecchia could only muster a one-under par round of 71 at Pebble Beach and is three behind at 135.
Tom Pernice Jr. shot a two-under par 70 at Del Monte and is eight-under, 136.
Schulz is the ultimate journeyman golfer. He won twice in his PGA tour career.
His last victory came at the 1991 L.A. Open.
He has played in only 11 events on the 2010 Champions Tour.
Monterey, CA, United States (AHN) - Ted Schulz is the surprise leader of the First Tee Open after shooting an eight-under par 64 at Pebble Beach on Saturday.
Schulz, whose best finish on the Champion\'s Tour this season was a tie for 15th at the Boeing Classic, was dazzling on the back nine at Pebble. He made the turn three-under with a 33 then birdied the 10th and 11th, 13th and 14th, and the 16th and 18th holes coming home.
Only a bogey at 17 prevented him from shooting 30, but the 31 was by far the best effort of the entire field.
His remarkable round gave him a three-shot lead going into the final day over first round leader Mark Calcavecchia. Schulz\'s 64 put him at 12-under after 36 holes, 132.
Calcavecchia could only muster a one-under par round of 71 at Pebble Beach and is three behind at 135.
Tom Pernice Jr. shot a two-under par 70 at Del Monte and is eight-under, 136.
Schulz is the ultimate journeyman golfer. He won twice in his PGA tour career.
His last victory came at the 1991 L.A. Open.
He has played in only 11 events on the 2010 Champions Tour.
South Bend, Indiana, United States (AHN) - A new decade, a new era, a new excitement at Notre Dame.
The Irish started the 2010 football season with a 23-12 win over in-state rival Purdue, Saturday, in South Bend.
It was the first win under head Coach Brian Kelly.
"He is a good coach and he\'s got a great program," said Purdue coach Danny Hope. "He\'ll do a fine job here."
Notre Dame struck first on an Armando Allen 22-yard run in the first quarter.
The score capped off a seven play, 84-yard drive.
"I thought (Allen) was the biggest difference maker in the game today," said Hope. "He\'s an outstanding player. He is very, very hard to tackle and that was evident today."
Allen carried the workload for Notre Dame finishing with 93-yards on 18 carries.He was helped by sophomore Cierre Wood who racked up 58 yards on seven carries.
The Irish took a 13-3 lead into halftime and scored first in the third quarter.
Dayne Crist, who made his first start, connected with freshman TJ Jones on a five-yard touchdown in the back of the end zone.
"He can really throw the ball," said Hope of Crist. " He is accurate. He plays with a lot of courage."
Purdue made a fourth quarter comeback sparked by a safety and 23-yard touchdown run by quarterback Robert Marve.
"I felt like we had a chance to win," said Marve, "there are plays we need to make to win a game and we didn\'t come up with it today."
Marve went 31-42 for 220 yards.
It was his first game in over a year. He sat out last season after transferring from the University of Miami.
"You won\'t see us lose too many more," he said.
Purdue (0-1) will go for itss first next weekend at home against Western Illinois.
Notre Dame (1-0) will try to stay perfect in the Brian Kelly era when they host Michigan.
South Bend, Indiana, United States (AHN) - A new decade, a new era, a new excitement at Notre Dame.
The Irish started the 2010 football season with a 23-12 win over in-state rival Purdue, Saturday, in South Bend.
It was the first win under head Coach Brian Kelly.
"He is a good coach and he\'s got a great program," said Purdue coach Danny Hope. "He\'ll do a fine job here."
Notre Dame struck first on an Armando Allen 22-yard run in the first quarter.
The score capped off a seven play, 84-yard drive.
"I thought (Allen) was the biggest difference maker in the game today," said Hope. "He\'s an outstanding player. He is very, very hard to tackle and that was evident today."
Allen carried the workload for Notre Dame finishing with 93-yards on 18 carries.He was helped by sophomore Cierre Wood who racked up 58 yards on seven carries.
The Irish took a 13-3 lead into halftime and scored first in the third quarter.
Dayne Crist, who made his first start, connected with freshman TJ Jones on a five-yard touchdown in the back of the end zone.
"He can really throw the ball," said Hope of Crist. " He is accurate. He plays with a lot of courage."
Purdue made a fourth quarter comeback sparked by a safety and 23-yard touchdown run by quarterback Robert Marve.
"I felt like we had a chance to win," said Marve, "there are plays we need to make to win a game and we didn\'t come up with it today."
Marve went 31-42 for 220 yards.
It was his first game in over a year. He sat out last season after transferring from the University of Miami.
"You won\'t see us lose too many more," he said.
Purdue (0-1) will go for itss first next weekend at home against Western Illinois.
Notre Dame (1-0) will try to stay perfect in the Brian Kelly era when they host Michigan.
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - Two races away from The Chase, Denny Hamlin tried to regain some of his early-season momentum when he won the pole Saturday for Sunday night\'s Emory Healthcare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
The Joe Gibbs Racing driver turned a lap of 187.380 mph to nip Stewart Haas Racing\'s Ryan Newman, who will start alongside Hamlin on the outside of the front row.
"I feel like the last 10 races have definitely been up and down for our team. We went on such a hot streak there and got spoiled a little bit, I guess you could say. Deemed probably the regular season irrelevant from that point on because we knew we were going to get in the Chase,\'\' said Hamlin.
"We\'re going to spend these next two weeks treating these as if they are Chase racing. We found ourselves going for wins so much and going all out trying to get more wins that it probably hurt us in the long run. These next two weeks we\'re going to points race just as if it\'s Loudon, New Hampshire."
Kyle Busch, Carl Edwards and Tony Stewart, all of whom will participate in The Chase, rounded out the top-five qualifiers.
Martin Truex Jr., four-time defending series champion Jimmie Johnson, Juan Montoya, David Ragan and Kasey Kahne comprised the top-10 qualifiers.
"It\'ll hurt us a spot or two, but I think our car has got good speed. It may be the difference between a 10th place to a 15th, but I\'m happy with the lap,\'\' said Ragan. "Our car was pretty good in practice today and this is one of the better cars I\'ve had here at Atlanta."
Battling for a spot in The Chase and qualifying 12th was Jamie McMurray, while Clint Bowyer qualified 14th, Greg Biffle clocked in 15th and Mark Martin 17th.
Four-time champion Jeff Gordon, who qualified 18th, has already locked in a spot in The Chase, and Dale Earnhardt Jr, qualified 25th, while Jeff Burton will roll off 26th, followed by Kevin Harvick (29th) and Matt Kenseth (30th).
"I honestly didn\'t think I got through (turns) one and two that good. The car slides up and then when you hit the shade, there was quite a bit of grip. But (turns three and four) even coming to the green slid around on exit and coming back to the white to finish my lap. It is really slick in Atlanta,\'\' said McMurray.
"This is just a really hard track to get a hold of. We are so used to qualifying here at night and it, I was talking to Dale Jarrett about this earlier, it is always exciting to qualify here at night because you are going to pick up a second and a half or two (seconds) from practice but it is hard to do when the sun is out."
Failing to qualify for the 43-car field was Jason Leffler, Landon Cassill, Scott Riggs and Todd Bodine.
Hampton, GA, United States (AHN) - Two races away from The Chase, Denny Hamlin tried to regain some of his early-season momentum when he won the pole Saturday for Sunday night\'s Emory Healthcare 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
The Joe Gibbs Racing driver turned a lap of 187.380 mph to nip Stewart Haas Racing\'s Ryan Newman, who will start alongside Hamlin on the outside of the front row.
"I feel like the last 10 races have definitely been up and down for our team. We went on such a hot streak there and got spoiled a little bit, I guess you could say. Deemed probably the regular season irrelevant from that point on because we knew we were going to get in the Chase,\'\' said Hamlin.
"We\'re going to spend these next two weeks treating these as if they are Chase racing. We found ourselves going for wins so much and going all out trying to get more wins that it probably hurt us in the long run. These next two weeks we\'re going to points race just as if it\'s Loudon, New Hampshire."
Kyle Busch, Carl Edwards and Tony Stewart, all of whom will participate in The Chase, rounded out the top-five qualifiers.
Martin Truex Jr., four-time defending series champion Jimmie Johnson, Juan Montoya, David Ragan and Kasey Kahne comprised the top-10 qualifiers.
"It\'ll hurt us a spot or two, but I think our car has got good speed. It may be the difference between a 10th place to a 15th, but I\'m happy with the lap,\'\' said Ragan. "Our car was pretty good in practice today and this is one of the better cars I\'ve had here at Atlanta."
Battling for a spot in The Chase and qualifying 12th was Jamie McMurray, while Clint Bowyer qualified 14th, Greg Biffle clocked in 15th and Mark Martin 17th.
Four-time champion Jeff Gordon, who qualified 18th, has already locked in a spot in The Chase, and Dale Earnhardt Jr, qualified 25th, while Jeff Burton will roll off 26th, followed by Kevin Harvick (29th) and Matt Kenseth (30th).
"I honestly didn\'t think I got through (turns) one and two that good. The car slides up and then when you hit the shade, there was quite a bit of grip. But (turns three and four) even coming to the green slid around on exit and coming back to the white to finish my lap. It is really slick in Atlanta,\'\' said McMurray.
"This is just a really hard track to get a hold of. We are so used to qualifying here at night and it, I was talking to Dale Jarrett about this earlier, it is always exciting to qualify here at night because you are going to pick up a second and a half or two (seconds) from practice but it is hard to do when the sun is out."
Failing to qualify for the 43-car field was Jason Leffler, Landon Cassill, Scott Riggs and Todd Bodine.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Second seed Roger Federer fought through a tough 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 win over Frenchmen Paul-Henri Mathieu in men\'s third round action Saturday at the US Open.
Sweden\'s Robin Soderling, seeded fifth, wrapped up a 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 win over Dutchmen Theiemo de Bakker and Frenchmen Gael Monfils fought through a tough 7-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 win over upstart Serb Janko Tipsarevic.
In women\'s third-round action, No. 1 Carolina Wozniaki and No. 14 Maria Sharapova easily coasted through wins, but No. 4 ranked Serbian Jelena Jankovic was upset by Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-2, 7-6.
Federer is seeking an unprecedented sixth US Open title and his record eighth-straight appearance in the Final. But first he had to get through Mathieu and into the round of 16.
The Swede attacked the net and used his signature backhand to pull away from Mathieu, who looked good at times, but could not keep up with Federer\'s resiliency. Federer finished with 13 aces and no double-faults.
Sweden\'s Robin Soderling, seeded fifth, wrapped up a 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 win over Dutchmen Theiemo de Bakker and Frenchmen Gael Monfils fought battled to a 7-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 win over upstart Serb Janko Tipsarevic in men\'s third round action.
Soderling\'s five-set opener is nothing but a memory now that he has only dropped 16 games combined in his past two matches, finishing off Bakker in just 1 hour, 42 minutes.
Tipsarevic looked to have the upper hand coming in after an upset of American Andy Roddick, but Monfils outlasted him to drop just six games in the final two sets after dropping 13 in the first two.
In women\'s third-round action, No. 1 Carolina Woznicaki and No. 14 Maria Sharapova easily coasted through wins, but No. 4 ranked Serbian Jelena Jankovic was upset by Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-2, 7-6.
Wozniacki gave up just one game in quickly taking down Taiwan\'s Yung-Jan Chan 6-1, 6-0. Sharapova faired even better, not dropping a single game to American Beatrice Capra 6-0, 6-0.
Wozniacki and Sharapova will play each other Monday.
Jankovic, however, looked disheveled and out of focus chasing 31-ranked Kanepi\'s forehands and volleys. Kanepi looked headed to a blow out after winning the first set 6-2, but barely held off Jankovic in the tiebrekaer of the second set.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Second seed Roger Federer fought through a tough 6-4, 6-3, 6-3 win over Frenchmen Paul-Henri Mathieu in men\'s third round action Saturday at the US Open.
Sweden\'s Robin Soderling, seeded fifth, wrapped up a 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 win over Dutchmen Theiemo de Bakker and Frenchmen Gael Monfils fought through a tough 7-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 win over upstart Serb Janko Tipsarevic.
In women\'s third-round action, No. 1 Carolina Wozniaki and No. 14 Maria Sharapova easily coasted through wins, but No. 4 ranked Serbian Jelena Jankovic was upset by Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-2, 7-6.
Federer is seeking an unprecedented sixth US Open title and his record eighth-straight appearance in the Final. But first he had to get through Mathieu and into the round of 16.
The Swede attacked the net and used his signature backhand to pull away from Mathieu, who looked good at times, but could not keep up with Federer\'s resiliency. Federer finished with 13 aces and no double-faults.
Sweden\'s Robin Soderling, seeded fifth, wrapped up a 6-2, 6-3, 6-3 win over Dutchmen Theiemo de Bakker and Frenchmen Gael Monfils fought battled to a 7-6, 6-7, 6-2, 6-4 win over upstart Serb Janko Tipsarevic in men\'s third round action.
Soderling\'s five-set opener is nothing but a memory now that he has only dropped 16 games combined in his past two matches, finishing off Bakker in just 1 hour, 42 minutes.
Tipsarevic looked to have the upper hand coming in after an upset of American Andy Roddick, but Monfils outlasted him to drop just six games in the final two sets after dropping 13 in the first two.
In women\'s third-round action, No. 1 Carolina Woznicaki and No. 14 Maria Sharapova easily coasted through wins, but No. 4 ranked Serbian Jelena Jankovic was upset by Estonian Kaia Kanepi 6-2, 7-6.
Wozniacki gave up just one game in quickly taking down Taiwan\'s Yung-Jan Chan 6-1, 6-0. Sharapova faired even better, not dropping a single game to American Beatrice Capra 6-0, 6-0.
Wozniacki and Sharapova will play each other Monday.
Jankovic, however, looked disheveled and out of focus chasing 31-ranked Kanepi\'s forehands and volleys. Kanepi looked headed to a blow out after winning the first set 6-2, but barely held off Jankovic in the tiebrekaer of the second set.
Norton, MA, United States (AHN) - The players at the Deutsche Bank championship know they were lucky.
They dodged Hurricane Earl.
With a playable golf course waiting for them Saturday morning at the TPC Boston, Brandt Snedeker took advantage of his early start and posted that day\'s best round, a seven-under par 64 that tied him with Jason Day at the halfway mark of the tournament.
"I\'m surprised to be sitting here," Snedeker said afterwards. "Because I didn\'t think we were going to get done today." The field was spared a possible delay when the storm weakened and left only a half-inch of overnight rainfall.
"I think I hit it better yesterday than I did today," Snedeker said after using only 21 putts for his round. He stands at 130, 12-under par with Day. Day played later and managed some gusty winds to shoot 67.
One shot behind the leaders was last week\'s winner, Matt Kuchar, who finished with a 65. He missed a five-footer for birdie at the final hole that would have tied him at the top. Still, Kuchar is enjoying the momentum he has established. "I\'m excited. I\'m hoping I keep up the momentum and the good play. I\'m trying to play well every day, even in the pro-ams."
Kuchar was at 11 under par, 131 along with Charley Hoffman, who shot 67.
Luke Donald, a captain\'s pick for the European Ryder Cup team, was at 10-under, 132. Another shot back at nine-under was Steve Stricker.
Stricker shot 68 for a 133 total. He is the only player in the field who hasn\'t made a bogey through the first two rounds.
Two players who found their \'A\' games on Saturday were Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. Both shot 65.
Mickelson\'s round put him four back of the leaders at 134. Woods has farther to go, he\'s five under after opening with 72.
It was a beautiful day for the field with sunny conditions, though winds came up as the day progressed.
"Obviously it was a little tougher out there with the gusts," Day said. "Overall, I\'m happy with how I played."
Norton, MA, United States (AHN) - The players at the Deutsche Bank championship know they were lucky.
They dodged Hurricane Earl.
With a playable golf course waiting for them Saturday morning at the TPC Boston, Brandt Snedeker took advantage of his early start and posted that day\'s best round, a seven-under par 64 that tied him with Jason Day at the halfway mark of the tournament.
"I\'m surprised to be sitting here," Snedeker said afterwards. "Because I didn\'t think we were going to get done today." The field was spared a possible delay when the storm weakened and left only a half-inch of overnight rainfall.
"I think I hit it better yesterday than I did today," Snedeker said after using only 21 putts for his round. He stands at 130, 12-under par with Day. Day played later and managed some gusty winds to shoot 67.
One shot behind the leaders was last week\'s winner, Matt Kuchar, who finished with a 65. He missed a five-footer for birdie at the final hole that would have tied him at the top. Still, Kuchar is enjoying the momentum he has established. "I\'m excited. I\'m hoping I keep up the momentum and the good play. I\'m trying to play well every day, even in the pro-ams."
Kuchar was at 11 under par, 131 along with Charley Hoffman, who shot 67.
Luke Donald, a captain\'s pick for the European Ryder Cup team, was at 10-under, 132. Another shot back at nine-under was Steve Stricker.
Stricker shot 68 for a 133 total. He is the only player in the field who hasn\'t made a bogey through the first two rounds.
Two players who found their \'A\' games on Saturday were Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. Both shot 65.
Mickelson\'s round put him four back of the leaders at 134. Woods has farther to go, he\'s five under after opening with 72.
It was a beautiful day for the field with sunny conditions, though winds came up as the day progressed.
"Obviously it was a little tougher out there with the gusts," Day said. "Overall, I\'m happy with how I played."
South Bend, Indiana, United States (AHN) - The Brian Kelly era at Notre Dame is off to a winning start.
The Irish beat Purdue 23-12 in South Bend Saturday, as Armando Allen led the way with 93-yards and a 22-yard touchdown in the first quarter.
Notre Dame\'s other TD came in the third on a five yard pass from Dayne Crist to freshman TJ Jones.
Purdue tried to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, but couldn\'t overcome a 17 point deficit.
Boilermakers\' quarterback Robert Marve threw for 220 yards and ran for a score, but he also was intercepted twice, including once in the red zone.
Notre Dame (1-0) will host Michigan next week and Purde (0-1) will play their first home game against Western Illinois.
South Bend, Indiana, United States (AHN) - The Brian Kelly era at Notre Dame is off to a winning start.
The Irish beat Purdue 23-12 in South Bend Saturday, as Armando Allen led the way with 93-yards and a 22-yard touchdown in the first quarter.
Notre Dame\'s other TD came in the third on a five yard pass from Dayne Crist to freshman TJ Jones.
Purdue tried to mount a comeback in the fourth quarter, but couldn\'t overcome a 17 point deficit.
Boilermakers\' quarterback Robert Marve threw for 220 yards and ran for a score, but he also was intercepted twice, including once in the red zone.
Notre Dame (1-0) will host Michigan next week and Purde (0-1) will play their first home game against Western Illinois.
East Lansing, MI, United States (AHN) - Kirk Cousins said he was nervous, but admits he doesn\'t know why.
The Michigan State junior quarterback appeared to be rather calm on the field Saturday in his team\'s season opener, passing for 186 yards on 13-of-21 attempts and one touchdown in MSU\'s 38-14 victory over Western Michigan University at Spartan Stadium.
"I was surprised myself, I couldn\'t believe it," Cousins smiled while trying to explain his nervousness. "Maybe it\'s because we don\'t have a preseason game against another team. The first time you go up against another team and it\'s been so long...it took me awhile to get settled in."
"But now that we have that game under our belt, I\'ll have a good feeling next week."
Cousins quarterbacked the Spartans to a commanding 28-7 halftime lead,, where they could afford to look ahead a bit.
Meanwhile, freshman tailback Le\'Veon Bell, gained 141 yards on 10 carries for the Spartans.
It\'s the first time since 2006 that MSU has had two running backs to rush for more than 100 yards in a game.
Edwin Baker, a sophomore, gained 117 yards on 17 carries.
Western, a Mid-American Conference school, hung tough with its Big Ten neighbors for most of the first half.
But Michigan State scored two second-quarter touchdowns to take control with a 28-7 halftime lead over Western Michigan.
"It\'s always exciting our first time out to get the win," said MSU coach Mark Dantonio. "In the second quarter we came out and did very well. At times, I think we just have to be a little more crisp. The wind obviously was a factor. It affected a part of the game."
The Spartans struck early in the first quarter on a 28-yard touchdown run by Baker. But the Broncos answered with a touchdown of their own late in the quarter on a 1-yard scoring pass from Alex Carder to Juan Nunez.
It was all Michigan State after that.
Keith Nichols, a former quarterback now playing wide receiver for MSU, caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Nichols had been battling Cousins for the QB\'s spot before relenting to play a wide receiver. He went after the ball aggressively to bring it in on his touchdown pass.
"That was all Keith on that one," Cousins said. "It was a play action pass. The safety didn\'t bite for the fake and I got a little pressure so I thought I\'d throw the ball and give Keith a chance to catch it in the back of the end zone. He made a great play.
"It wasn\'t an easy thing to ask him to switch positions in the middle of bowl preparations last year. He took it and committed himself to becoming the best receiver he can be. It\'s great to see that develop in that touchdown pass."
"I thought we tackled very well on defense," Dantonio said. "You didn\'t see a lot of missed tackles. We continued to pressure the quarterback. We\'ll take it. We have to eliminate the unforced penalties."
Michigan State also prospered on scoring runs of seven yards by Baker and two yards by Bell in the second quarter.
Bell had a two-yard touchdown run early in the second half to give MSU a 35-7 bulge.
Western also scored in the third quarter on Carder\'s two-yard pass to Blake Hammond.
Dan Conroy booted a 33-yard field goal in the fourth quarter for Michigan State.
MSU had 297 yards on the ground compared to 85 for WMU.
Carder passed for 220 yards on 27 completions. Cousins passed for 186 yards on 13 completions.
Carder was also his team\'s top ground gainer with 38 yards on nine attempts.
"Since I\'ve been with Western\'s organization, this is the first time we have had a player like him," said Bronco coach Bill Cubit. "He is going to bail us out sometimes, and sometimes we are going to have to live with the mistakes he makes."
East Lansing, MI, United States (AHN) - Kirk Cousins said he was nervous, but admits he doesn\'t know why.
The Michigan State junior quarterback appeared to be rather calm on the field Saturday in his team\'s season opener, passing for 186 yards on 13-of-21 attempts and one touchdown in MSU\'s 38-14 victory over Western Michigan University at Spartan Stadium.
"I was surprised myself, I couldn\'t believe it," Cousins smiled while trying to explain his nervousness. "Maybe it\'s because we don\'t have a preseason game against another team. The first time you go up against another team and it\'s been so long...it took me awhile to get settled in."
"But now that we have that game under our belt, I\'ll have a good feeling next week."
Cousins quarterbacked the Spartans to a commanding 28-7 halftime lead,, where they could afford to look ahead a bit.
Meanwhile, freshman tailback Le\'Veon Bell, gained 141 yards on 10 carries for the Spartans.
It\'s the first time since 2006 that MSU has had two running backs to rush for more than 100 yards in a game.
Edwin Baker, a sophomore, gained 117 yards on 17 carries.
Western, a Mid-American Conference school, hung tough with its Big Ten neighbors for most of the first half.
But Michigan State scored two second-quarter touchdowns to take control with a 28-7 halftime lead over Western Michigan.
"It\'s always exciting our first time out to get the win," said MSU coach Mark Dantonio. "In the second quarter we came out and did very well. At times, I think we just have to be a little more crisp. The wind obviously was a factor. It affected a part of the game."
The Spartans struck early in the first quarter on a 28-yard touchdown run by Baker. But the Broncos answered with a touchdown of their own late in the quarter on a 1-yard scoring pass from Alex Carder to Juan Nunez.
It was all Michigan State after that.
Keith Nichols, a former quarterback now playing wide receiver for MSU, caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Nichols had been battling Cousins for the QB\'s spot before relenting to play a wide receiver. He went after the ball aggressively to bring it in on his touchdown pass.
"That was all Keith on that one," Cousins said. "It was a play action pass. The safety didn\'t bite for the fake and I got a little pressure so I thought I\'d throw the ball and give Keith a chance to catch it in the back of the end zone. He made a great play.
"It wasn\'t an easy thing to ask him to switch positions in the middle of bowl preparations last year. He took it and committed himself to becoming the best receiver he can be. It\'s great to see that develop in that touchdown pass."
"I thought we tackled very well on defense," Dantonio said. "You didn\'t see a lot of missed tackles. We continued to pressure the quarterback. We\'ll take it. We have to eliminate the unforced penalties."
Michigan State also prospered on scoring runs of seven yards by Baker and two yards by Bell in the second quarter.
Bell had a two-yard touchdown run early in the second half to give MSU a 35-7 bulge.
Western also scored in the third quarter on Carder\'s two-yard pass to Blake Hammond.
Dan Conroy booted a 33-yard field goal in the fourth quarter for Michigan State.
MSU had 297 yards on the ground compared to 85 for WMU.
Carder passed for 220 yards on 27 completions. Cousins passed for 186 yards on 13 completions.
Carder was also his team\'s top ground gainer with 38 yards on nine attempts.
"Since I\'ve been with Western\'s organization, this is the first time we have had a player like him," said Bronco coach Bill Cubit. "He is going to bail us out sometimes, and sometimes we are going to have to live with the mistakes he makes."
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Marcus Thames continued his red-hot hitting, jacking a go-ahead two-run homer to lift the New York Yankees to a 7-5 win over the Toronto Blue Jays Saturday afternoon.
Thames has provided a number of big hits for New York as of late, including seven homers in his last 12 games.
The eight-year veteran has been a surprise spark for the talent-riden Yanks, batting .303 with 11 homers and 30 RBI in 64 games.
Robinson Cano knocked in two runs, while Brett Gardner and Derek Jeter each had an RBI.
Javier Vazquez looked shaky in his return to the rotation, giving up five runs in 4 2-3 innings, but New York was able to secure the win and get to a season-high 36 games over .500.
The lights out new York bullpen, however, held the high-powered Jays scoreless for the remainder of the game, behind scoreless innings from Boone Logan, Joba Chamberlain and Kerry Wood.
Mariano Rivera sealed the door shut with his 29th save of the year.
In other afternoon action, New York\'s hated rival the Boston Red Sox welcomed back a familiar face in Manny Ramirez, who had two hits as his White Sox sank the Red Sox even further down the standings with a 3-1 win.
A.J. Pierzynski and Gordon Beckham each knocked in a run for Chicago, which received an impressive seven innings of one-run ball from John Danks.
Marco Scutaro knocked in the only run for the Red Sox (76-59), who have now sunk all the way to 9.5 games behind New York (86-50) in the AL East.
NY, NY, United States (AHN) - Marcus Thames continued his red-hot hitting, jacking a go-ahead two-run homer to lift the New York Yankees to a 7-5 win over the Toronto Blue Jays Saturday afternoon.
Thames has provided a number of big hits for New York as of late, including seven homers in his last 12 games.
The eight-year veteran has been a surprise spark for the talent-riden Yanks, batting .303 with 11 homers and 30 RBI in 64 games.
Robinson Cano knocked in two runs, while Brett Gardner and Derek Jeter each had an RBI.
Javier Vazquez looked shaky in his return to the rotation, giving up five runs in 4 2-3 innings, but New York was able to secure the win and get to a season-high 36 games over .500.
The lights out new York bullpen, however, held the high-powered Jays scoreless for the remainder of the game, behind scoreless innings from Boone Logan, Joba Chamberlain and Kerry Wood.
Mariano Rivera sealed the door shut with his 29th save of the year.
In other afternoon action, New York\'s hated rival the Boston Red Sox welcomed back a familiar face in Manny Ramirez, who had two hits as his White Sox sank the Red Sox even further down the standings with a 3-1 win.
A.J. Pierzynski and Gordon Beckham each knocked in a run for Chicago, which received an impressive seven innings of one-run ball from John Danks.
Marco Scutaro knocked in the only run for the Red Sox (76-59), who have now sunk all the way to 9.5 games behind New York (86-50) in the AL East.
Gainesville, FL, United States (AHN) - Tim Tebow replacement John Brantley went 17-for-25 for just 114 yards and two touchdowns, but the Florida Gators defense picked off Miami (OH) quarterback Zac Dysert four times to prevent the massive upset with a 34-12 win over the RedHawks Saturday afternoon.
The offense that ran like a well-oiled machine under Tebow was clinking and clanking under Brantley in his first start after waiting behind Tim Tebow for two full seasons.
The Gators finished with 212 total yards, the exact same as the severe underdog RedHawks.
Miami looked poised for the upset, leading 3-0 after the first quarter, but too many mistakes and red zone stops proved to be costly for the RedHawks.
The Gators racked up three scores in the second quarter to take the lead for good. Dysert finished 24-for-42 for 188 yards and four picks.
The Gators\' Trey Burton ran for a score and Jeff Demps sent home an impressive 72-yard touchdown run to finish with eight carries for 97 yards.
Chris Rainey caught seven passes for 36 yards and Omarius Hines caught three passes for 48 yards and a score for Florida. Miami\'s Armand Robinson led all receivers with 11 catches for 110 yards.
Florida (1-0, 0-0 SEC) continues its quest for another national championship against the upstart South Florida Bulls Sept. 11.
Gainesville, FL, United States (AHN) - Tim Tebow replacement John Brantley went 17-for-25 for just 114 yards and two touchdowns, but the Florida Gators defense picked off Miami (OH) quarterback Zac Dysert four times to prevent the massive upset with a 34-12 win over the RedHawks Saturday afternoon.
The offense that ran like a well-oiled machine under Tebow was clinking and clanking under Brantley in his first start after waiting behind Tim Tebow for two full seasons.
The Gators finished with 212 total yards, the exact same as the severe underdog RedHawks.
Miami looked poised for the upset, leading 3-0 after the first quarter, but too many mistakes and red zone stops proved to be costly for the RedHawks.
The Gators racked up three scores in the second quarter to take the lead for good. Dysert finished 24-for-42 for 188 yards and four picks.
The Gators\' Trey Burton ran for a score and Jeff Demps sent home an impressive 72-yard touchdown run to finish with eight carries for 97 yards.
Chris Rainey caught seven passes for 36 yards and Omarius Hines caught three passes for 48 yards and a score for Florida. Miami\'s Armand Robinson led all receivers with 11 catches for 110 yards.
Florida (1-0, 0-0 SEC) continues its quest for another national championship against the upstart South Florida Bulls Sept. 11.
South Bend, IN, United States (AHN) - Notre Dame is out to an early lead in head coach Brian Kelly\'s debut.
The Irish are up 13-3 on Purdue at halftime.
Senior Armando Allen scored on a 22-yard run, the seventh of his career.
The touchdown capped off a seven-play, 84-yard drive in which Notre Dame picked up four rushing first downs.
David Ruffer added two field goals for the Irish, including a career long 46-yarder.
Purdue\'s only score came after a more than seven minute drive.
Carson Wiggs booted a 25-yard field goal.
South Bend, IN, United States (AHN) - Notre Dame is out to an early lead in head coach Brian Kelly\'s debut.
The Irish are up 13-3 on Purdue at halftime.
Senior Armando Allen scored on a 22-yard run, the seventh of his career.
The touchdown capped off a seven-play, 84-yard drive in which Notre Dame picked up four rushing first downs.
David Ruffer added two field goals for the Irish, including a career long 46-yarder.
Purdue\'s only score came after a more than seven minute drive.
Carson Wiggs booted a 25-yard field goal.
Iowa City, IA, United States (AHN) - Adam Robinson needed just a half to dash for 109 yards and three touchdowns as the Iowa Hawkeyes opened their season with an impressive 37-7 stomping of the Eastern Illinois Panthers Saturday.
Quarterback Ricky Stanzi led an effective offense with 18 completions on 23 attempts for 229 yards and a touchdown.
Stanzi spread the ball to a total of 11 different receivers, with tight end Brad Herman leading the way with three catches for 57 yards.
Robinson added three receptions for 43 yards and Brett Moore caught a one-yard touchdown for his only reception of the game.
The defense chipped in too, with Paki O\'Meara blocking a punt and returning it 42 yards to put the Hawkeyes ahead 21-0 with less than a minute left in the first quarter.
The Hawkeyes outgained Eastern Illinois 435-157 in total yards, but also committed two turnovers.
The Panthers\' Brandon Large looked his best during an 86-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter that made it 21-7.
Large finished 13-for-20 for just 92 yards and that 11-yard touchdown pass.
The Hawkeyes continue a realtively easy start to the season against Iowa State Sept 11. Their first real test comes against Penn State Oct. 2.
Iowa City, IA, United States (AHN) - Adam Robinson needed just a half to dash for 109 yards and three touchdowns as the Iowa Hawkeyes opened their season with an impressive 37-7 stomping of the Eastern Illinois Panthers Saturday.
Quarterback Ricky Stanzi led an effective offense with 18 completions on 23 attempts for 229 yards and a touchdown.
Stanzi spread the ball to a total of 11 different receivers, with tight end Brad Herman leading the way with three catches for 57 yards.
Robinson added three receptions for 43 yards and Brett Moore caught a one-yard touchdown for his only reception of the game.
The defense chipped in too, with Paki O\'Meara blocking a punt and returning it 42 yards to put the Hawkeyes ahead 21-0 with less than a minute left in the first quarter.
The Hawkeyes outgained Eastern Illinois 435-157 in total yards, but also committed two turnovers.
The Panthers\' Brandon Large looked his best during an 86-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter that made it 21-7.
Large finished 13-for-20 for just 92 yards and that 11-yard touchdown pass.
The Hawkeyes continue a realtively easy start to the season against Iowa State Sept 11. Their first real test comes against Penn State Oct. 2.
Pittsburgh, PA, United States (AHN) - The Pittsburgh Penguins plugged in multi-use utility player Mike Comrie to their lineup with a relatively cheap one-year, $500,000 contract Friday.
Comrie totaled 13 goals and eight assists in 43 games last season with the Edmonton Oilers.
Comrie, who turns 30 Sept. 11, totaled 13 goals and eight assists in 43 games last season with the Edmonton Oilers. He may see a lot of playing time alongside a two-center lineup with Evgeni Malkin and Jordan Staal, and during the power play, where he notched nearly half his points (10) last season.
"For me, to be able to come in and try to complement the players the Penguins have, to fit in and be a guy that can make plays and play on different lines and give them different looks on a team that can make a
playoff run, that\'s something I\'m excited about," Comrie told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Comrie took a significant pay cut from the $1.25 million he made last year.
The nine-year veteran is valued for his ability to play either the right wing, where he spent most of the last few seasons, the left wing or even center, where he played much of his early career.
"Versatility is what really interested us," general manager Ray Shero told the Gazette. "We have no preconceived notions about who he\'s going to play with or where he\'s going to play, but he\'s a competitive guy. He\'s got quick hands in tight."
"He\'s a good, talented offensive player. Maybe on our second power-play unit he could be a guy on the half-wall, a position we\'ve had some trouble filling."
The Edmonton native has 167 goals and 359 points in 568 NHL games with the Oilers, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Ottawa and the New York Islanders.
The Penguins finished last season 47-28-7, eliminated by the surprising Montreal Canadiens in the Conference Semi-finals. They open the regular season Oct. 7 against the Philadelphia Flyers.
Pittsburgh, PA, United States (AHN) - The Pittsburgh Penguins plugged in multi-use utility player Mike Comrie to their lineup with a relatively cheap one-year, $500,000 contract Friday.
Comrie totaled 13 goals and eight assists in 43 games last season with the Edmonton Oilers.
Comrie, who turns 30 Sept. 11, totaled 13 goals and eight assists in 43 games last season with the Edmonton Oilers. He may see a lot of playing time alongside a two-center lineup with Evgeni Malkin and Jordan Staal, and during the power play, where he notched nearly half his points (10) last season.
"For me, to be able to come in and try to complement the players the Penguins have, to fit in and be a guy that can make plays and play on different lines and give them different looks on a team that can make a
playoff run, that\'s something I\'m excited about," Comrie told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Comrie took a significant pay cut from the $1.25 million he made last year.
The nine-year veteran is valued for his ability to play either the right wing, where he spent most of the last few seasons, the left wing or even center, where he played much of his early career.
"Versatility is what really interested us," general manager Ray Shero told the Gazette. "We have no preconceived notions about who he\'s going to play with or where he\'s going to play, but he\'s a competitive guy. He\'s got quick hands in tight."
"He\'s a good, talented offensive player. Maybe on our second power-play unit he could be a guy on the half-wall, a position we\'ve had some trouble filling."
The Edmonton native has 167 goals and 359 points in 568 NHL games with the Oilers, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Ottawa and the New York Islanders.
The Penguins finished last season 47-28-7, eliminated by the surprising Montreal Canadiens in the Conference Semi-finals. They open the regular season Oct. 7 against the Philadelphia Flyers.
East Lansing, MI, United States (AHN) - It was quite a college debut for Le\'Veon Bell.
MSU\'s standout recruit from Reynoldsburg, Ohio, gained 141 yards on 10 carries to lead Michigan State over Western Michigan 38-14 Saturday at Spartan Stadium.
It\'s the first time since 2006 that MSU has had two running backs to rush for more than 100 yards in a game.
Edwin Baker, a sophomore, gained 117 yards on 17 carries.
Western, a Mid-American Conference school, hung tough with its Big Ten neighbors for most of the first half.
But Michigan scored two second-quarter touchdowns to take control with a 28-7 halftime lead over Western Michigan University at Spartan Stadium.
The Spartans struck early in the first quarter on a 28-yard touchdown run by Baker. But the Broncos answered with a touchdown of their own late in the quarter on a 1-yard scoring pass from Alex Carder to Juan Nunez.
It was all Michigan State after that.
Keith Nichols, a former quarterback now playing wide receiver for MSU, caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Michigan State also prospered on scoring runs of seven yards by Baker and two yards by Bell.
Bell had a two-yard touchdown run early in the second half to give MSU a 35-7 bulge.
Western also scored in the third quarter on Carder\'s two-yard pass to Blake Hammond.
Dan Conroy booted a 33-yard field goal in the fourth quarter for Michigan State.
Carder passed for 220 yards on 27 completions. Cousins passed for 186 yards on 13 completions.
The crowd at Spartan Stadium was 75,005, a sellout.
East Lansing, MI, United States (AHN) - It was quite a college debut for Le\'Veon Bell.
MSU\'s standout recruit from Reynoldsburg, Ohio, gained 141 yards on 10 carries to lead Michigan State over Western Michigan 38-14 Saturday at Spartan Stadium.
It\'s the first time since 2006 that MSU has had two running backs to rush for more than 100 yards in a game.
Edwin Baker, a sophomore, gained 117 yards on 17 carries.
Western, a Mid-American Conference school, hung tough with its Big Ten neighbors for most of the first half.
But Michigan scored two second-quarter touchdowns to take control with a 28-7 halftime lead over Western Michigan University at Spartan Stadium.
The Spartans struck early in the first quarter on a 28-yard touchdown run by Baker. But the Broncos answered with a touchdown of their own late in the quarter on a 1-yard scoring pass from Alex Carder to Juan Nunez.
It was all Michigan State after that.
Keith Nichols, a former quarterback now playing wide receiver for MSU, caught a 20-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Kirk Cousins.
Michigan State also prospered on scoring runs of seven yards by Baker and two yards by Bell.
Bell had a two-yard touchdown run early in the second half to give MSU a 35-7 bulge.
Western also scored in the third quarter on Carder\'s two-yard pass to Blake Hammond.
Dan Conroy booted a 33-yard field goal in the fourth quarter for Michigan State.
Carder passed for 220 yards on 27 completions. Cousins passed for 186 yards on 13 completions.
The crowd at Spartan Stadium was 75,005, a sellout.