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Florida Gators, South Carolina Gamecocks shake off injuries before showdown

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By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

If you had told South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier a few weeks ago that he would lose his All-SEC starting running back Marcus Lattimore to a season-ending knee injury midseason, his starting quarterback would be dismissed and his sophomore backup would be knocked out of a big game with a concussion — and he'd still be in contention to win the SEC East — he might have thought you were crazy.

All that has happened to the Gamecocks, and yet this afternoon they host Florida still vying for the division title and holding things together despite a growing number of injuries and struggles on the field at times.

"It's a little unusual," Spurrier said. "Again, we're 7-2 and 5-2 in the conference with the chance to win more conference games than ever around here in 20 years of ball. So we can't sit here and feel sorry for ourselves. Even though we haven't played spectacular, we have won a bunch of games. We'll try to play our best this week with the players we have. That's what we'll try to do."

Florida coach Will Muschamp echoes that sentiment. His Gators also have been hampered all season by injuries but with much different results in the win-loss column.

Senior quarterback John Brantley missed 10 quarters for the Gators with a high ankle sprain, and although he has played in the past two games, he has not been at full speed.

Since his return two weeks ago, Florida hasn't been able to operate out of its normal offense. Against Georgia, the Gators operated primarily out of the shotgun because Brantley's injury hindered his mobility. And last week, in an effort to compensate for the injury and rediscover their running game, the Gators installed their version of Nevada's "pistol" offense against Vanderbilt, which Florida offensive coordinator Charlie Weis said he will use again this week.

"It was kind of natural," Weis said. "Going into Georgia, the kid (Brantley) was still pretty hobbled. So he really couldn't even have done that in that game. He wouldn't have been (able). I thought about doing it, putting it in for the Georgia game, but other than dropping straight back, he really wasn't good enough to do that. You know, he got better. So all we did was kind of took out the first three steps and that helped us. You end up with (Brantley) back 5 yards and the halfback, instead of being back 7 yards, he's back 8 yards, so you don't run into each other. It just fits with what we do."

The loss of Lattimore and quarterback Stephen Garcia, a former Jefferson High star, could have been catastrophic, but Spurrier said the Gamecocks have managed to maintain much of their offense with the players who have stepped in — particularly quarterback Connor Shaw, who enters the game one week after suffering a concussion and missing several days of practice.

"It's pretty much the same, pretty much the same," Spurrier said. "Obviously with Marcus we wanted to make sure he ran about 20 to 30 times a game. But we have two tailbacks playing now, Kenny Miles and freshman Brandon Wilds playing, so it's changed a little bit but not a whole bunch."

Florida, which struggled offensively during October, is no longer in the hunt for a title, but in need of a victory to become bowl eligible. Muschamp said he hopes the Gators can play pressure-free, and he believes a healthy Brantley means a world of difference for Florida.

"Having John back makes us that sort of offense that we want to be and simulates the type of team that we want to be offensively," Muschamp said. "And that's where we're headed, and that's what we're looking forward to just playing there in Columbia."

Antonya English can be reached at english@sptimes.com. Follow her coverage at gators.tampabay.com.


Brandon High's Cyrus Dooley declares, 'it's time to step up'

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By Brandon Wright, Times Correspondent
Friday, November 11, 2011

BRANDON — Cyrus Dooley takes the handoff, slipping between the tackle and guard.

He easily shreds an arm tackle, squares up on a linebacker and spins away while losing his balance. Before going down, Dooley rights himself by placing his free hand on the ground to lunge for another few steps.

The 5-yard gain hardly defines all Dooley endured on the play, but it speaks to his tenacity.

"I just keep moving," he said. "Trying to fight."

If only life proved as easy as running the football.

Despite a tumultuous childhood, Dooley has brushed off life's oncoming troubles like he has tacklers. After struggling with grades, the grind of varsity football and a lack of playing time early in the season, the junior fullback has turned the past month into his personal coming-out party.

"I'm a guy who went from struggling (to play) on this football team to being a leader," Dooley said. "And now it's time to step up."

Dooley's rise up the Eagles' depth chart has coincided with the team's late-season playoff push that earned Brandon a spot in Friday's Class 7A region quarterfinals at Tampa Bay Tech. Dooley barely touched the ball for the first four games, but since posting 149 yards against Newsome on Oct. 6, he has gained 100 yards in every game but one.

"Early on he was sharing time and in the mix," coach John Lima said. "But he's earned reps recently because of the work he's put in."

Dooley — a fan favorite due to his bruising style — had to cut his teeth with the coaching staff. A youth football star, he struggled with making the jump to varsity.

"We run a lot on Mondays, and there were days he wasn't there or didn't get to class," Lima said. "Maybe the play would be to the right, and he would go left. He just wasn't putting in the work."

Dooley would be the first to agree with his coach. Part of that stemmed from a less-than-ideal home life. Throughout middle school and into his career at Brandon, Dooley bounced around from one foster home to another.

"I would miss a lot of class," Dooley said. "And when I did go, I wouldn't behave the right way."

Lima saw the talent, but also realized Dooley had a long way to go in order to fit into the Eagles' plans.

"He was a great (youth football) player, and sometimes you can just get by because you are physically more talented than the others," he said. "There's definitely a transition, and some things we require here."

Partially because of his difficult upbringing, Dooley said he failed seventh grade. When he got to Brandon, Dooley's unsettled lifestyle translated to the football field, especially in Lima's structured program.

"Offseason (training) is required for all varsity players here," Lima said. "It wasn't that he couldn't or wouldn't do these extra things, but it was all new to him."

Dooley finally recognized the opportunity, like a running back who sees a hole open up. His talent was undeniable, and the kid from the broken home knew he had two choices — break down or break tackles.

"I just had to start dedicating myself," Dooley said. "I came to realize that there was no reason I couldn't be a 1,000-yard rusher, and once I got my opportunity, I took it."

In each of the past three games, Dooley has topped the 100-yard mark. Asked about his thoughts on his running style, Dooley doesn't blink.

"Mike Alstott," Dooley said of the former Buccaneer he shares the jersey number 40 with. "He was my idol growing up, and I wanted to be like him."

Like Alstott, Dooley is built for running through tackles, but much like the former Buc fullback, he's nimble enough to hurdle defenders and sift through piles.

"Cyrus is surprisingly light on his feet," Lima said.

With top running back Tyrell Garner likely sidelined against TBT, the kid who struggled to get a touch in the beginning of the season likely will handle the bulk of Friday's workload.

"I know my teammates are counting on me, and I want to be that leader," Dooley said. "My family life is back to where I want it, and all (the past) has done is provided me motivation. Right now, it's all good."

Brandon Wright can be reached at hillsnews@sptimes.com.

College football scouting report: Miami at Florida State, 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Ch. 28, 1040-AM, 820-AM

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Times staff and wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

With news this week that their best defensive back, Ray-Ray Armstrong will be suspended because he may have accepted an improper benefit, Miami (5-4, 3-3) finds itself right where it began the year: fighting off the NCAA and not its next opponent. The Seminoles (6-3, 4-2 ACC) rank fourth nationally in total defense and their 30 sacks this season are the best in the ACC. They will try to pressure Miami QB Jacory Harris, a senior who is having his best season.

Watch out for …

Pay attention to FSU's safeties and corners as they take on their biggest challenge in four weeks. With WRs Travis Benjamin and Tommy Streeter posing athletic, play-making threats, the Seminoles are gearing up for a challenge they mostly failed at in their three losses.

Times wires

College football scouting report: Miami Hurricanes at Florida State Seminoles, 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Ch. 28, 1040-AM, 820-AM

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Times staff, wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

With news this week that their best defensive back, Ray-Ray Armstrong, left, will be suspended because he may have accepted an improper benefit, the Hurricanes (5-4, 3-3 ACC) find themselves right where they began the season: dealing with the NCAA and not so much their next opponent. The Seminoles (6-3, 4-2) rank fourth in Division I-A in total defense and their 30 sacks are the best in the ACC. They will try to pressure Miami QB Jacory Harris, a senior who is having his best season.

Times staff, wires

WATCH OUT FOR ...

Pay attention to FSU's safeties and corners as they take on their biggest challenge in four weeks. With WRs Travis Benjamin and Tommy Streeter posing athletic, playmaking threats, the Seminoles are gearing up for a challenge they mostly failed at in their three losses.

Miami at Florida State, 3:30, Ch. 28, 1040-AM, 820-AM

Gene Hayes is eager to earn way back into Tampa Bay Bucs lineup

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By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

TAMPA — To say LB Geno Hayes "can't wait" to play Sunday is an understatement.

Hayes, 24, the Bucs starter at weakside linebacker the past three years, was benched last week against the Saints, with coach Raheem Morris hoping it'd be a "wake-up call" to make him more consistent.

Relegated to just special teams in New Orleans, Hayes said it was very tough to be on the sideline as the Saints racked up 195 rushing yards. Though Hayes has not earned his starting spot back yet, he has played well enough in practice to get more reps defensively against the Texans. Hayes said the experience definitely motivated him.

"I've got to step it up to another level," Hayes said. "I think it's more of big plays, I haven't really made any big, big plays. I see it coming and I don't react like I should. Instead of being kind of cautious, just let go and just do it."

Hayes ranks second on the team with 48 tackles, and is tied with CB Ronde Barber for a team-high five tackles for loss. The third-year pro said he needed to work on a few little things as far as technique and reading his keys "and I'll be good to go."

LB Quincy Black will start at weakside Sunday, with LB Adam Hayward at strongside. Morris said Hayes will play part-time, and hopes there will be a competition growing between all the linebackers.

"You need impact plays across the board," Morris said. "It starts up front but you want impact plays from impact guys, and Geno was definitely a splash-play guy for a couple years, and then you don't. And then when you don't get splash plays, you get inconsistent play and you got to wake him up somehow and that's my job as a coach."

EASING IN: Morris said recently-acquired DT Albert Haynesworth has looked good in his first two days of practice, and has picked up things pretty quickly. How much Haynesworth plays Sunday, however, remains to be seen.

"We'll see," Morris said. "Just got to get him out there, let him go play. He's done a nice job in practice this week, taking all the reps we require him to take. He's done a nice job of going out there, being physical. Looks to be in pretty good shape as far as a man that size."

HIGH PRAISE: Texans QB Matt Schaub said having to plan against Barber is a significant — and somewhat unique — challenge.

"The fact he's played so much football and seen all the looks, he can anticipate things and sees things happen before they really do," Schaub said. "His ability to recognize those looks sets him apart from many other guys so you really have to understand where he is pre-snap, where he could be after the snap with what you're doing and be able to anticipate."

MEDICAL MATTERS: LB Dekoda Watson (groin) is questionable for Sunday's game, with DT Frank Okam (calf) doubtful, Morris said. G Jeremy Zuttah (knee) is healthy again and will likely start over Ted Larsen at left guard. WR Mike Williams (thigh) and S Tanard Jackson (hamstring) are expected to play.

Times staff writer Rick Stroud contributed to this report. Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com.

Geno Hayes is eager to earn way back into Tampa Bay Bucs lineup

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By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

TAMPA — To say LB Geno Hayes "can't wait" to play Sunday is an understatement.

Hayes, 24, the Bucs starter at weakside linebacker the past three years, was benched last week against the Saints, with coach Raheem Morris hoping it'd be a "wake-up call" to make him more consistent.

Relegated to just special teams in New Orleans, Hayes said it was very tough to be on the sideline as the Saints racked up 195 rushing yards. Though Hayes has not earned his starting spot back yet, he has played well enough in practice to get more reps defensively against the Texans. Hayes said the experience definitely motivated him.

"I've got to step it up to another level," Hayes said. "I think it's more of big plays, I haven't really made any big, big plays. I see it coming and I don't react like I should. Instead of being kind of cautious, just let go and just do it."

Hayes ranks second on the team with 48 tackles, and is tied with CB Ronde Barber for a team-high five tackles for loss. The third-year pro said he needed to work on a few little things as far as technique and reading his keys "and I'll be good to go."

LB Quincy Black will start at weakside Sunday, with LB Adam Hayward at strongside. Morris said Hayes will play part-time, and hopes there will be a competition growing between all the linebackers.

"You need impact plays across the board," Morris said. "It starts up front but you want impact plays from impact guys, and Geno was definitely a splash-play guy for a couple years, and then you don't. And then when you don't get splash plays, you get inconsistent play and you got to wake him up somehow and that's my job as a coach."

EASING IN: Morris said recently-acquired DT Albert Haynesworth has looked good in his first two days of practice, and has picked up things pretty quickly. How much Haynesworth plays Sunday, however, remains to be seen.

"We'll see," Morris said. "Just got to get him out there, let him go play. He's done a nice job in practice this week, taking all the reps we require him to take. He's done a nice job of going out there, being physical. Looks to be in pretty good shape as far as a man that size."

HIGH PRAISE: Texans QB Matt Schaub said having to plan against Barber is a significant — and somewhat unique — challenge.

"The fact he's played so much football and seen all the looks, he can anticipate things and sees things happen before they really do," Schaub said. "His ability to recognize those looks sets him apart from many other guys so you really have to understand where he is pre-snap, where he could be after the snap with what you're doing and be able to anticipate."

MEDICAL MATTERS: LB Dekoda Watson (groin) is questionable for Sunday's game, with DT Frank Okam (calf) doubtful, Morris said. G Jeremy Zuttah (knee) is healthy again and will likely start over Ted Larsen at left guard. WR Mike Williams (thigh) and S Tanard Jackson (hamstring) are expected to play.

Times staff writer Rick Stroud contributed to this report. Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com.

Red zone woes plague Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

TAMPA — Rarely do numbers tell the whole story of what occurs on a football field. But, at times, some are undeniable.

Take, for instance, the fact that the Buccaneers rank last in red zone efficiency, scoring touchdowns on just 36.4 percent of occasions when the offense reaches opponents' 20-yard line.

It's a problem that cropped up again Sunday at New Orleans, where Tampa Bay's first three scoring drives were capped with field goals. The Bucs would technically go 1 for 2 in the game as it relates to scoring touchdowns in the red zone, but the day's events were indicative of a problem that has plagued this team all season.

Put simply, too many drives end in field goals.

And when the opposition manages to find the end zone with regularity, the math isn't difficult.

"We've had our opportunities," quarterback Josh Freeman said. "(The execution) has been a hair off. If we're on, we've got touchdowns there. We ended up kicking more field goals than touchdowns. And it's hard to win in this division, especially against the Saints, if you're not scoring touchdowns."

Generally speaking, the Bucs have moved the ball efficiently this season. They are on pace to surpass last season's totals in first downs, passing yards and total yardage. Conversely, the Bucs are down in one particularly important offensive category: Scoring. Tampa Bay averages 18.4 points per game, a major reason being its inability to convert when the offense is within striking distance.

Consider Sunday's game. The Bucs gave up the ball on downs at the Saints 29 in the first quarter. Then, they settled for field goals after reaching the Saints' 22-yard line, 30-yard line, and 7-yard line at various points in the game.

So, what's behind this seemingly chronic problem?

At times this season coaches chalked it up to costly interceptions in the red zone. Freeman has thrown four interceptions inside the 20-yard line, including two on Oct. 23 against the Bears.

But that hasn't always been the problem. Against the Saints, for example, the failures stemmed from poor execution, including a couple of inexact throws from Freeman.

"Looking back on it, it was a combination of turnovers early on," offensive coordinator Greg Olson said. "We're cleaning that up. Last week, it was partly a lack of execution. We made a point of (saying) we've got to do a better job of transferring what we're doing on the practice field in those situations, to the game.

"We went back and looked at our practice reps on Monday after the loss. We said, 'Here's the practice reps and here it is on game day.' We need to transfer it to game day and we didn't do that. It's a constant process."

Said Freeman: "Everything in the red zone is more condensed. It's got to happen faster and we just haven't been on our game and haven't been making a lot of plays."

Defenses obviously play a role in the problem. Defensive coordinators have countered with a variety of tactics inside the red zone. Receiver Mike Williams — a prime target in the red zone last season who has just one touchdown in 2011 — said defenses often play zone coverages in the red zone.

In those scenarios, because the area being covered is smaller, Freeman has smaller windows in which to throw the ball. Also, Williams said, the so-called "opportunity balls" or jump balls he often caught for touchdowns from Freeman in the past are harder to complete against zones. Unfortunately, such throws are a staple of the Bucs' red zone offense.

"We're getting a lot of zone in the red zone, not man-to-man coverage," Williams said. "I guess a lot of teams see that (on film). With man-to-man, the jump ball is the best call."

The red zone struggles are a problem that won't and can't be ignored. Olson continues to work to find ways of making his unit sharper at the most critical moments. He knows there's no other choice in the matter.

"The red zone for us has been a thorn in our side this season," he said. "It's unacceptable."

Stephen F. Holder can be reached at sholder@sptimes.com.

tampabay.com

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Friday, November 11, 2011

On the Web: Football bonanza

Miss a game Friday night? No worries, we've got complete coverage from Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties. Find game recaps, photo galleries, team standings and more at tampabay.com/hometeam.


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Friday, November 11, 2011

On the Web: Football bonanza

Miss a game Friday night? No worries, we've got complete coverage from Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties. Find game recaps, photo galleries, team standings and more at tampabay.com/hometeam.

Sharks' Hart nabs first offer

Nature Coast senior Richard Hart has his first college offer. Grambling State has offered the star linebacker, coach Charles Liggett said. Grambling State, a Division I-AA program, is also close to offering defensive lineman Darius Stewart, Liggett said. Hart finished his senior year with 78 tackles and three sacks. The 6-foot, 185-pounder also had an interception at the goal line and a team-best four forced fumbles. Stewart, a 6-foot-4, 360-pound senior recorded 37 tackles, two sacks and a blocked kick.

Nancy Lopez to make first appearance at LPGA Legends Tour Open Championship

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By Rodney Page, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

Nancy Lopez has been a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame since 1987. She turned professional when she was 20 and ended her career with 48 LPGA Tour wins and three major championships. She also won the 1980 JCPenney Classic at Bardmoor with partner Curtis Strange. During the late 1970s an '80s, Lopez was the face of the LPGA Tour.

Now 54, Lopez is divorced from her second husband, former major leaguer Ray Knight, and living full time in Auburn, Ala. Her youngest daughter, Torri, is a senior at Auburn University.

Lopez will be making her first appearance at the LPGA Legends Tour Open Championship, which begins today at Innisbrook's Island Course. She recently talked to the St. Petersburg Times between shots of a Tuesday practice round about her expectations for the tournament, how things used to be on the LPGA Tour and how they are now.

Have you been able to play much golf now that you are retired from the game?

I just sold my house in Georgia this year and it kind of messed up my whole year. I really wanted to play more. But with moving out of this great, big house and moving stuff into my other houses, it just cramped my golf style this year. Hopefully, next year will be a little better. I only have a wedding. My second daughter (Erinn) is getting married. I want to play more because if I play more, obviously I'm going to play better.

You designed a course in The Villages and used to live there. Are you living in Florida anymore?

I'm in the house in Auburn right now. I didn't want to go to Florida right now. But I'm really not there very much. I'm doing a lot of corporate outings and charity events and some Legends Tour events. I've been real busy. I haven't been anywhere for very long.

Any expectations for this tournament?

Well, I've got a few days to find some tempo. I'm hitting the ball pretty good, just not consistently. I'm going to work on getting more comfortable. And especially I'm going to work on my 5-footers and in. I haven't played in many tournaments or pressure events.

I'd like to play some good golf. I'm looking forward to it. I've missed it.

Do you get a chance to see many of the people you used to compete against?

Not really. It's really fun playing with players I've played against in the past. But they are very competitive. It's like a reunion. It's great to see everybody again. There is competitive spirit, but it's not as cut throat as it used to be. They all still want to play well. They want to show they can still play the game.

You were the New Mexico Women's Amateur champion when you were 12. You played in the U.S. Open at 15. But you went to college before you turned pro at 20. Alexis Thompson recently turned pro at 15. Could you imagine doing that?

Everybody thought my game was ready. I played in the U.S. Open when I was 15. But I wasn't sure that was going to make me happy. I ended up going to college and I loved that, even though I only stayed for two years.

I think sometimes the kids of today come out way too early. I know the money is there and it's nice, but it's not all about playing on the Tour. It's about going to school, enjoying those things in life that you can't get back.

Can Thompson succeed?

Alexis could be somebody that is so positive for the LPGA Tour. She is really a great player. I captained her on the Solheim Cup a few years ago when she was 14. I think with the way she can play she can put the LPGA back on the map again.

Can somebody like Michelle Wie put the LPGA on the map?

I'd like to see Michelle do well. She had to fight so hard to get to where she is now. Whoever was telling her to do the things she did, like playing on the men's tour, that just did not make sense to me. Now that she's on the women's tour she is very comfortable.

Nancy Lopez to make first appearance at LPGA Legends Tour Open Championship

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By Rodney Page, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

Nancy Lopez has been a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame since 1987. She turned professional when she was 20 and ended her career with 48 LPGA Tour wins and three major championships. She also won the 1980 JCPenney Classic at Bardmoor in Largo with partner Curtis Strange. During the late 1970s and '80s, Lopez was the face of the LPGA Tour.

Lopez, 54, is divorced from her second husband, former major-leaguer Ray Knight, and living in Auburn, Ala. The youngest of her three daughters, Torri, is a senior at Auburn.

Lopez is making her first appearance at the LPGA Legends Tour Open Championship, which begins today at Innisbrook in Palm Harbor. She talked to the St. Petersburg Times between shots of a Tuesday practice round about her expectations for the tournament, and how things used to be on the tour and how they are now.

Have you been able to play much golf now that you are retired from the game?

I just sold my house in Georgia this year, and it kind of messed up my whole year. I really wanted to play more. But with moving out of this great big house and moving stuff into my other houses, it just cramped my golf style this year. Hopefully, next year will be a little better. I only have a wedding. My second daughter (Erinn) is getting married. I want to play more, because if I play more, obviously I'm going to play better.

You designed a course in the Villages (a Central Florida retirement community) and used to live there. Are you living in Florida anymore?

I'm in the house in Auburn right now. … But I'm really not there very much. I'm doing a lot of corporate outings and charity events and some Legends Tour events. I've been real busy. I haven't been anywhere for very long.

Any expectations for this tournament?

Well, I've got a few days to find some tempo. I'm hitting the ball pretty good, just not consistently. I'm going to work on getting more comfortable. And especially I'm going to work on my 5-footers and in. I haven't played in many tournaments or pressure events. I'd like to play some good golf. .

Do you get a chance to see many of the people you used to compete against?

Not really. It's really fun playing with players I've played against in the past. But they are very competitive. It's like a reunion. It's great to see everybody again. There is competitive spirit, but it's not as cutthroat as it used to be. They all still want to play well. They want to show they can still play the game.

You were the New Mexico Women's Amateur champion when you were 12. You played in the U.S. Open at 15. But you went to college (University of Tulsa) before you turned pro at 20. Alexis Thompson recently turned pro at 15. Could you imagine doing that?

Everybody thought my game was ready. I played in the U.S. Open when I was 15. But I wasn't sure that was going to make me happy. I ended up going to college, and I loved that, even though I only stayed for two years. I think sometimes the kids of today come out way too early. I know the money is there and it's nice, but it's not all about playing on the tour. It's about going to school, enjoying those things in life that you can't get back.

Can Thompson succeed?

Alexis could be somebody that is so positive for the LPGA Tour. She is really a great player. I captained her on the Solheim Cup a few years ago when she was 14. I think with the way she can play, she can put the LPGA back on the map again.

Can somebody like Michelle Wie put the LPGA on the map?

I'd like to see Michelle do well. She had to fight so hard to get to where she is now. Whoever was telling her to do the things she did, like playing on the men's tour, that just did not make sense to me. Now that she's on the women's tour, she is very comfortable.

tampabay.com

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0


Friday, November 11, 2011

On the Web: Football bonanza

Miss a game Friday night? No worries, we've got complete coverage from Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties. Find game recaps, photo galleries, team standings and more at tampabay.com/hometeam.

Raiders' Patterson headed to Ohio

Plant City running back Dazmond Patterson confirmed Thursday that he has committed to Ohio University and will be graduating early with plans to be on the campus in January. Though he missed playing time because of an ankle injury, the 5-foot-8 senior still amassed close to 700 yards, averaging more than 8 yards a carry.

"I'm just thankful that he got his chance, he got his opportunity," Plant City coach Wayne Ward said. "So many people, because of his size, they just passed him over."

College football scouting reports: UCF, Florida International, Florida Atlantic, Florida A&M, Bethune-Cookman

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Times staff, wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

UCF at Southern Miss, 8, CBS Sports Network: Redshirt freshman QB Blake Bortles is coming off the bench to play for the Knights (4-5, 2-3 C-USA). Bortles had a strong performance against BYU earlier this season but has had limited opportunities since that loss. Bortles did not play last week. Southern Miss is 8-1 overall, 4-1 in the league.

Florida A&M at N.C. Central, 2: The Rattlers (6-3, 4-2 MEAC) are trying for their fourth consecutive win and hope to catch Norfolk State. N.C. Central is 2-7 overall, 1-5 in the league.

Savannah St. at Bethune-Cookman, 3: The Wildcats (6-3, 4-2 MEAC) lead the conference in scoring (32.0 points per game), rushing offense (240.2 ypg) and total offense (424.8 ypg). Bethune-Cookman has won four in a row. The Tigers (1-8, 1-5) have lost five in a row by an average score of 38.4 to 9.2. They haven't scored a touchdown in their last nine quarters.

Florida Atlantic at Florida International, 6: The Owls (0-8, 0-5 Sun Belt) are 8-1 against the Panthers on the field and FIU had to vacate its only victory. FIU (5-4, 2-3) is seeking to become bowl eligible for only the second time in school history.

Times staff, wires



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WATCH OUT FOR ...

Captain's Corner: Gag tips

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Bill Hardman, Times Correspondent
Friday, November 11, 2011

What's hot: Over the past couple of weeks, gag grouper have kept moving to ledges and wrecks that are holding bait. As the water temperatures drop, gags move in from deeper water in larger numbers. After big winds, gags can be found on big ledges that normally don't hold many grouper in the warmer months. The bigger well-known ledges offer protection from bottom surge and usually a lot of bait. And don't forget about wrecks. This time of year a wreck can be absent of groupers one weekend and loaded with them the next. The short two-month open season for gags closes Tuesday.

Look for pelagics: This week's bottom temperatures in most depths west of St. Petersburg range from 71 to 74 degrees. When spearing near the bottom, don't just look for fleeting grouper and snappers. This is a good time to find cobia laying quietly on the sand up against a wreck. Use the bait as cover and look closely for dark objects motionless in the sand.

Bill Hardman teaches scuba, spearfishing and free diving through Aquatic Obsessions Scuba in St. Petersburg and can be reached at (727) 344-3483 or captainbillhardman@gmail.com.

Nats catcher found alive

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Times wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

PHILADELPHIA — Jonathan Papelbon and the Phillies have agreed to a $50 million, four-year contract that's the largest ever for a reliever, according to multiple media reports. The deal is subject to Papelbon passing a physical.

Papelbon, who turns 31 on Nov. 23, had 219 saves over seven seasons with the Red Sox, including 31 this past season, when he made $12 million. The right-hander replaces Ryan Madson, who also is a free agent.

The previous high for relievers had been $47 million, with B.J. Ryan agreeing to a five-year contract with Toronto before the 2006 season and Joe Nathan getting a four-year deal from Minnesota in 2008.

Madson's agent, Scott Boras, and Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. were close to a $44 million, four-year deal on Monday. But, the Associated Press reported, Amaro told Boras the following day that team president Dave Montgomery wouldn't approve the deal.

Venezuela hunts for kidnapped catcher

CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan authorities said they are confident they can quickly solve the kidnapping of Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos.

The abduction was the first known kidnapping of a major-leaguer in a country that has scores of big-league players.

Deputy Justice Minister Edwin Rojas said investigators are making progress and have physical descriptions of the kidnappers.

"We have faith in the quick resolution of this case," he told state television. He said President Hugo Chavez's government "is working 24 hours a day to solve this case."

Armed men seized Ramos at gunpoint Wednesday outside his home in Valencia. Authorities said they had found a stolen SUV used by the kidnappers abandoned in a nearby town.

Venezuelan security expert Luis Cedeno said Ramos' abductors probably belong to one of the country's highly organized criminal groups that focus on high-profile kidnappings and are likely to demand a large ransom. He said judging from previous cases, the ordeal might last months. In one case last year, a German banker was freed after more than 11 months in captivity, following negotiations and what police said was a payment.

In Washington, fans held a vigil Friday evening outside Nationals Park.

Eighty-seven Venezuelans played in the majors last season.

Pujols visits Marlins: Albert Pujols' free agent tour is off to a surprising start: The three-time NL MVP had lunch Friday with Marlins officials and checked out the team's new ballpark, the Miami Herald reported. His visit came only hours before the franchise officially changed its name to the Miami Marlins during an event at the team's new ballpark.

Surgery for Hamilton: Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton had successful surgery to repair a sports hernia. He's expected to fully recover in time for spring training.

Astros: The proposed sale of the team from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when the league's owners meet next week, and McLane, Crane and MLB have reached an understanding on how a possible shift of the franchise to the American League in 2013 would take place, the Associated Press reported.

Cubs: Indians bench coach Sandy Alomar Jr. became the fourth candidate to interview for the managerial vacancy. GM Jed Hoyer said the field may be complete.

Red Sox: Blue Jays first-base coach Torey Lovullo, former manager of Boston's Triple-A team, interviewed for the big-league club's managerial job.


Abducted Nationals catcher rescued

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Times wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuelan police rescued Nationals catcher Wilson Ramos on Friday, two days after he was kidnapped.

"I'm the happiest man on earth," Abraham Ramos, the player's father, said in comments broadcast on Venezuelan state television. "My son is safe and sound."

Justice Minister Tareck El Aissami said Ramos was rescued by police but the circumstances weren't immediately clear. Information Minister Andres Izarra initially reported the rescue via Twitter, saying Ramos was "found alive by security forces in mountainous zone."

Izarra said it was "a rescue operation by air," which was authorized earlier in the day by President Hugo Chavez.

Ramos' mother exclaimed on TV: "Thanks to God! Thanks to my country, to my neighbors and to my family, who were supporting us."

Armed men seized Ramos, 24, at gunpoint Wednesday outside his home in Valencia. Authorities said they had found a stolen SUV used by the kidnappers in a nearby town.

The abduction was the first known kidnapping of a major-league player in a country that has dozens of players on big-league rosters, and it brought a renewed focus on worsening violent crime in Venezuela.

Report: Papelbon to join Phillies

PHILADELPHIA — Jonathan Papelbon and the Phillies have agreed to a $50 million, four-year contract that's the largest ever for a reliever, according to multiple media reports. The deal is subject to Papelbon passing a physical.

Papelbon, who turns 31 on Nov. 23, had 219 saves over seven seasons with the Red Sox, including 31 this past season, when he made $12 million. The right-hander replaces Ryan Madson, who also is a free agent.

The previous high for relievers had been $47 million, with B.J. Ryan agreeing to a five-year contract with Toronto before the 2006 season and Joe Nathan getting a four-year deal from Minnesota in 2008.

Pujols visits Marlins: Albert Pujols' free agent tour is off to a surprising start: The three-time NL MVP had lunch with Marlins officials, checked out the team's new ballpark and received a contract offer, the Miami Herald reported. The notoriously thrifty franchise declined to disclose details of the proposal to the All-Star first baseman. His visit came only hours before the franchise officially changed its name to the Miami Marlins during an event at the ballpark.

Surgery for Hamilton: Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton had successful surgery to repair a sports hernia. He's expected to fully recover in time for spring training.

Astros: The proposed sale of the team from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when the league's owners meet next week, and McLane, Crane and MLB have reached an understanding on how a possible shift of the franchise to the AL in 2013 would take place, the Associated Press reported.

Cubs: Indians bench coach Sandy Alomar Jr. became the fourth candidate to interview for the managerial vacancy. GM Jed Hoyer said the field may be complete.

Red Sox: Blue Jays first-base coach Torey Lovullo, former manager of Boston's Triple-A team, interviewed for the big-league club's managerial job.

Obituary: Charlie Lea, the first French-born pitcher to throw a no-hitter in the majors, died in Memphis. He was 54. The cause of death was not immediately known. He pitched from 1980 until 1988. He spent six seasons with the Montreal Expos (where he threw a no-hitter in 1981) and one season with the Twins.

Shooting from the lip

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By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

Two minutes with Brad Nessler

If you watched Thursday night's season debut of games on the NFL Network, that means two things. One, you don't get Bright House Networks, which still doesn't have the NFL Network. The other is you had a chance to hear play-by-play announcer Brad Nessler, left, who made his NFL Network debut along with analyst Mike Mayock. Both received outstanding reviews for Thursday's Chargers-Raiders game. Meantime, Nessler still calls college football and basketball for ESPN. In fact, tonight Nessler will share the booth with Todd Blackledge for the Alabama-Mississippi State game. Earlier this week, Nessler talked about his new gig with the NFL Network.

You already keep a pretty busy schedule with ESPN. What intrigued you about the Thursday night NFL game?

Maybe I'm having midlife crisis! (Laughs). I don't know. It's another new challenge. The thing is, calling games on the NFL Network on Thursday and ESPN on Saturday will overlap for only a month or so. So it shouldn't be that bad.

What appealed to you about doing NFL games?

I just love the NFL. I've done radio in the past for the Falcons and Vikings. Then I did two years of NFL at CBS. My family loves football. We would sit down and watch Thursday night games. I figured, why not get paid to watch it? (Laughs).

Do you like the fact that it's a national game?

I wouldn't be doing it if it was just a regular Sunday game going out to 9 percent of the country. The Thursday night game is a happening, and that's a lot of fun to be a part of.

What's the difference between calling an NFL and a college game?

I don't think it's that much different. The preparation is pretty much the same. A college game has a lot more players, but most never see the field. There are little nuances in the rules, but of course, we all know most of those differences. So it's very similar.

How well do you know your broadcast partner, Mike Mayock?

He used to do sideline work back at ESPN 15 years ago when I was calling games, so we've been friends a long, long time. I love his work because I usually watch (him on) the Notre Dame broadcasts.

Will that help in building a camaraderie?

I would think so. It doesn't take long. In the booth, you start to understand each other's hand gestures and looks and you start to know what the other guy is thinking. I've always been blessed to work with great partners, and I think Mike and I are going to get along great together.

Media tidbits

• Thursday's NFL Network season debut between the Raiders and Chargers drew 5.3 million TV viewers, making it the most-viewed Thursday Night Football game since the NFL Network started showing games in 2006. It's not surprising that this year's game broke a record, considering more people than ever get the NFL Network. Did we mention that Bright House Networks customers are not among those who get it?

• Just to show how popular the NFL is, last Sunday's Steelers-Ravens game drew a TV rating of 13.3. The latest "Game of the Century" matchup between No. 1 LSU and No. 2 Alabama drew an 11.5.

Three things that popped into my head

1. It will be interesting to see how ESPN handles today's Penn State-Nebraska game at noon. The past week's scandal is too big to ignore, yet seems too important to address during a football game.

2. Wouldn't it be funny if every team in the NHL played a 1-3-1 defense only against the Flyers, just to make them mad?

3. FSU and Miami play today. Isn't it something how little buzz there is for what used to be the college game of the year?

tom jones' two cents

The latest from the world of sports

Luck meets Ducks in Pac-12 duel

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Times wires
Friday, November 11, 2011

STANFORD, Calif. — Since he announced in January that he would return, Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck put the Cardinal and the Oregon Ducks on a collision course for today.

Luck leads No. 3 Stanford (9-0, 7-0) against LaMichael James and No. 6 Oregon (8-1, 6-0) in a Pac-12 showdown, a game that could decide the league champion and keep the winner in the national title mix.

"If you want to do something on the West Coast, you've got to beat Oregon," Luck said. "They've been the best team the last couple of years."

Stanford (9-0, 7-0) is riding the nation's longest winning streak at 17 games, the last loss coming at Eugene last year, 52-31.

Today, Stanford can clinch the North Division and the opportunity to host the inaugural league championship game, while Oregon also would need to win one of its final two league games.

"Andrew Luck is the best quarterback in the country, but I don't think they ever think they're in over their heads against anybody" Oregon coach Chip Kelly said of his players.

Chance to impress? Boise State (8-0, 3-0), facing another year as a BCS outsider, could use a convincing win against Texas Christian (7-2, 4-0). TCU has won 21 straight conference games and has matched the Mountain West record with 11 straight road wins in that stretch. Boise State has won 35 straight games on its blue turf.

A diversion? Penn State (8-1, 5-0 Big Ten) has a two-game lead in the Leaders Division and harbors Rose Bowl hopes amid the distractions of the controversy on campus. Today the Nittany Lions meet Nebraska (7-2, 3-2), which is fighting to stay alive in the Legends after Northwestern upset the Cornhuskers last week.

Clincher for Clemson? The No. 9 Tigers (8-1, 5-1) can clinch the ACC Atlantic Division and reach the league's championship game for the second time in three seasons with a win over Wake Forest (5-4, 4-2). "This is the biggest game of the year and we have a lot at stake," Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said.

First turn crucial to Fall Juvenile favorites at Derby Lane

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By Don Jensen, Times Correspondent
Friday, November 11, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — It will take the winner a little more than 30 seconds tonight to capture the $20,000 Fall Juvenile at Derby Lane. For Sand Cloud and Se's Chewie, the first eight seconds are paramount.

That is when they hope to reach the first turn in the 550-yard race. And the thoughts of Sand Cloud trainer Catherine D'Arcy and Se's Chewie owner Christopher Palmieri Jr. are identical: "My dog has to get there first."

Sand Cloud and Se's Chewie are the ones to beat in the fifth annual event (Race 8, 9:33 p.m.). They dominated qualifying with 56 points apiece and have combined for 24 career wins — all but one by leading at every call.

"(Sand Cloud) runs a lot like her mom (2007 All-America sprinter Dreamy Blossom)," D'Arcy said. "It's catch me if you can."

The field from the rail: Makers Bark (Hambleton Racing), Kentucky Blue (Cal Holland), Sand Cloud (D'Arcy), Flying Marvelous (McAllister), St. Petersburg Derby winner Storm Rush (Hambleton), Atascocita Davia (Alderson), Se's Chewie (Capabal) and Jw Rapid Strike (Capabal). First place pays $9,000.

This will be the second stakes final for Sand Cloud. It was the first turn in the Oct. 1 Fall Sprint, where the Mick D'Arcy-owned dog fell and finished last.

"(Sand Cloud) needs to get to the front to win it," Catherine D'Arcy said.

Se's Chewie, the youngest finalist at 21 months old, didn't appear to be a front-runner when he was purchased from Steve Ward in April for $1,250 at the National Greyhound Association spring meet auction in Abilene, Kan.

"I thought I had bought a closer for Derby Lane," said Palmieri, who has flown in from Oxon Hill, Md., for the race. "All the credit goes to (kennel owner) Henry (Parker) to get the dog to break."

Parker corrected Se's Chewie's starting box issues.

"Now he's got that break down real good," Parker said. "He's got exceptional speed and if he can stay away from injuries, he's going to be a heck of a dog."

Palmieri is seeking his first Derby Lane stakes win since Pnj's Barr upset two-time All-America choice Cayman Went in the 2004 St. Petersburg Derby. Trained by Belinda Parker, Se's Chewie is one of 60 dogs owned by Palmieri.

He also has a booking at Birmingham, Ala., and owns thoroughbreds as a partner with Fantasy Lane Stable. His top horses include Uptowncharlybrown, who ran in the 2010 Sam F. Davis and Tampa Bay Derby at Tampa Bay Downs in Oldsmar, and the Belmont Stakes at Belmont Park in Elmont, N.Y.; and recently retired R Betty Graybull, a four-time stakes winner with earnings of $436,117.

"I like the dogs more," Palmieri said. "They actually bought me my interest in my horses."

NOTES: Derby Lane kennel Magic City-Mighty Fine has been dissolved. … Oldsmar's Jane Cibelli became the first woman to win a training title at Monmouth Park on Sunday in Oceanport, N.J.

Game preview: Tampa Bay Lightning at St. Louis Blues

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By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 11, 2011

Tonight

Lightning at Blues

When/where: 8; Scottrade Center, St. Louis

TV/radio: Sun Sports; 970-AM

Key stats: The Blues entered Friday with the league's worst power play at 10.6 percent and worst home penalty kill at 68.4 percent. … Lightning C Steven Stamkos has 10 goals, 14 points in his past 12 games. … Tampa Bay has not lost in regulation to the Blues since March 2003 in St. Louis (4-0-2 with a tie).

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