By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

.TONIGHT

USF at Auburn

When/where: 9:30; Auburn Arena, Auburn, Ala.

TV/radio: Bright House Sports Network; 620-AM

Records: USF 6-4, Auburn 4-1

Notable: The Bulls get a solid road test against a Tigers team that hasn't played much tough competition, with its loss coming by 22 points at Seton Hall. … USF has three players vying for its scoring lead. Junior F Toarlyn Fitzpatrick's 25-point game Sunday raised his average to 10.1, not far behind sophomore guard Victor Rudd (11.6) and senior forward Augustus Gilchrist (11.1). … Auburn has five players averaging double-digit points, led by guard Frankie Sullivan at 12.8 ppg. … This game will be played as a rare road doubleheader, following the USF-Auburn women's game.

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

USF women at Auburn

When/where: 7; Auburn Arena, Auburn, Ala.

Radio: 1010-AM

Records: USF 6-4, Auburn 5-2

Notable: The Bulls won 67-49 in Tampa last season, though 33 of those points came from guard Andrea Smith, who hasn't been cleared to return following ACL surgery at the end of last season. … The Bulls have gotten solid play from guard Jasmine Wynne, who is averaging a team-best 14 points and, at 5 feet 7, leads the team with 5.9 rebounds per game, ahead of 6-4 post players Caitlin Rowe and Akila McDonald. … Auburn's top scorer is 6-1 forward Hasina Muhammad, averaging 10.7 points.

Greg Auman, Times staff writer

Times wires
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

GAINESVILLE — In a possible blow to UF's recruiting, Ohio State coach Urban Meyer hired two members of the Gators' support staff.

Brian Voltolini will be the Buckeyes' director of football operations and Mark Pantoni director of player personnel.

At Florida, Voltolini was the director of football video, and Pantoni was the director of football administration this season. Both worked with Meyer and stayed at UF after he resigned in December 2010.

Recruiting analyst Tom Lemming said Pantoni had led the Gators' recruiting efforts for the past two years, and his organization is why Florida often started recruiting top players before most other schools.

BOWDEN RETURNS: LSU will have a tough time beating Alabama twice in the same season, former FSU coach Bobby Bowden said during his first visit back on campus since his departure two years ago.

Bowden's top-ranked Seminoles lost the 1996 national championship to Florida in a rematch at the Sugar Bowl.

"… To me Alabama has the same advantage that Florida had on us," Bowden said. "They got beat and they're mad as you know what."

AUBURN LOSING ASSISTANT: Auburn offensive coordinator Gus Malzahn will be the next coach at Arkansas State, the Associated Press reported.

SPURRIER EXTENDED: South Carolina extended coach Steve Spurrier's contract through the 2015 season.

EX-'NOLE AILING: Former FSU guard and college coach Vince Gibson, 78, has been diagnosed with ALS.

COLORADO ST.: Jim McElwain, Alabama's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, was introduced as head coach.

KANSAS: New coach and former Florida offensive coordinator Charlie Weis hired Ron Powlus to tutor quarterbacks and Tim Grunhard to work with the offensive line.

UCLA: New coach Jim Mora vowed to make fans proud: "I look forward to the challenge of returning this team to prominence."

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

TAMPA — No matter how many times Bucs left tackle Donald Penn knocks down pass rushers, he is only noticed when he has to help quarterback Josh Freeman get back on his feet.

Penn, named to the Pro Bowl last year, routinely stifles the league's best sack masters. But Saturday he faces his toughest assignment — blocking out his uncharacteristically poor performance Sunday against the Jaguars.

Penn allowed a first-half sack that resulted in a Freeman fumble recovered for a Jaguars touchdown in a 41-14 loss Sunday. Freeman was harassed all day, sacked three times, pulled down by his facemask for a personal foul and hit on two other occasions. He threw two interceptions.

Bucs coach Raheem Morris called it Penn's worst game of the year. Penn doesn't disagree.

"I'm not happy with the way I played," Penn said Tuesday. "We'll see how this week goes. I'm not happy with myself, I need to play better. I can't let up. I always talk about it. I did, I'll be the first one to stand here and tell you. I wish I could have three or four plays back. It would've helped us. But I've got to do better. I hold myself to high standards and that wasn't good enough on my part. What perfect way to get better than this weekend."

Pass protection will be paramount for Penn when he faces Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware, who is tied for second in the NFL with 15 sacks and has 94 for his career.

Ware can flip to either side, which means right tackle Jeremy Trueblood will be also be tested. But it's Penn's job to keep Freeman clean on his blindside and Ware has made some long days for left tackles this season.

"He's having a great year this year," Penn said. "Man, it's going to be tough. He's going to come at me. We're going to have a good battle and he's a good player. I'm going to have to really recoup. I put some bad things on film last week, I've got to make sure I switch it up and change it up so he doesn't take advantage of what I did. But that wasn't me."

The Bucs (4-9) have lost seven games in a row and eight of their past nine. Playing the Cowboys in primetime on the NFL Network is rife with potential for ridicule or redemption.

"We're grinding through it," Penn said. "We're still playing hard, we're still holding each other to a high standard and we're going to get through it. It's a learning stage, too. We're growing while we're learning."

At Jacksonville, seven turnovers led to 41 unanswered points, including 28 in 7 ½ minutes in the second quarter.

"It happened so fast, you've got to … take a deep breath and get back to playing one play at a time," Penn said. "I wish we would've done some different things. We've got to get better and stop making so many mistakes."

Behind Penn, the Bucs have done an extraordinary job protection Freeman. Despite yielding three sacks last week, they're tied for eighth in the NFL in sacks allowed with 24.

"I don't know whether you want to consider DeMarcus a d-lineman? A linebacker?" Morris said. "Whatever you want to call him, just call him a good football player and you've just got to be ready to deal with him on Saturday."

Like always, Penn says he'll have Freeman's back.

"I don't want to make it bigger than it is," Penn said. "I'm going to take care of it. I'm fully aware of what I did and I'm going to get better. I'm one of the first guys to tell these other guys, "I need more.' So it's time for them to tell me they need more from me. The roles are reversed. I have to come out and produce."

Times wires
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

PITTSBURGH — Steelers linebacker James Harrison has carved out a niche as one of the NFL's most feared defenders by straddling the line between clean and dirty play. On Tuesday the league did more than fine him for it.

The NFL suspended Harrison for a game for his helmet-to-facemask hit Thursday on Browns quarterback Colt McCoy. Harrison is the first player to miss game time under the league's revamped policy on such collisions. His agent, Bill Parise, said Tuesday that Harrison has filed an appeal and expects it to be heard this week.

NFL executive vice president Ray Anderson said the violation was Harrison's fifth illegal hit on a quarterback in three seasons. The four-time Pro Bowl pick has been fined two other times.

Harrison, who has criticized the NFL's crackdown on vicious hits, thanked fans for their support on Twitter, adding, "I'm just going to move on from here and get ready for my next game."

The Steelers face the 49ers on Monday night in San Francisco.

Also, medical representatives from the league and union met with the Browns' medical staff to discus the response and treatment of McCoy. Browns linebacker Scott Fujita, a member of the NFLPA's executive committee, supports having independent neurologists at games to spot concussions.

Dolphins stunned by firing

DAVIE — A number of key Dolphin players expressed surprise that coach Tony Sparano was fired with three games remaining in the season.

Chad Henne, Will Allen and other players spoke while taking part in the annual Fins for Kids Holiday Toy Event at training camp.

Sparano was told he was being let go on Monday.

"It's like losing a family member," defensive back Allen said.

In almost four years, Sparano went 29-32. This season Miami is 4-9 and out of the playoff hunt after an 0-7 start.

"It's a shame he had to go out that way," said Henne, who is injured. "… I wish I could have him for another year as my head coach because I respect the hell out of him."

COWBOYS: Running back DeMarco Murray (broken right ankle) and safety Barry Church (shoulder) were placed on season-ending injured reserve. The team signed veterans Sammy Morris and Mana Silva as replacements.

PANTHERS: The team signed rookie kicker Adi Kunalic to a three-year contract but also kept veteran Olindo Mare.

TITANS: Ex-Bucs linebacker Barrett Ruud, who missed four of the past five games with a groin injury, went on IR. The team signed linebacker Kevin Malast off the Jaguars' practice squad.

Times wires
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Meighan Simmons and the Tennessee women had been struggling in the second half against Rutgers.

The sixth-ranked Vols lost all of a 13-point lead and found themselves down by three before taking control with a late run to seal their 67-61 victory over the 11th-ranked Scarlet Knights. Simmons hit two clutch 3-pointers during the spurt.

"It was a great win for us, great win against a very good, well-coached team," Tennessee associate coach Holly Warlick said. "I thought when we needed to we made the big play."

Trailing 54-51 with 8:33 left, Tennessee (6-2) scored 13 straight, holding Rutgers scoreless for nearly eight minutes. Vicki Baugh started the burst with a layup and Simmons hit consecutive 3-pointers to give the Vols a 61-54 lead. Taber Spani hit a 3 with 1:52 left to seal it.

"I feel like there's a time and place for everything," said Simmons, who missed eight of her first 10 attempts. "At that time it was a moment where we hadn't scored in four or five minutes, I was open and happened to take the shot, thank God it went in."

The game featured two Hall of Fame coaches in Tennessee's Pat Summitt and Rutgers' C. Vivian Stringer. The long-time friends have combined for nearly 1,950 victories and stand first and third on the women's basketball all-time victory list.

Summitt received a warm standing ovation before the game and shared a long embrace with Stringer. Rutgers players wore warmup shirts that said "We Back Pat" in honor of Summitt's battle with early onset Alzeheimer's. The school also presented Tennessee with a collage of Stringer's favorite photos with Summitt and a commemorative jersey at the half.

"I saw them with the shirts 'We Back Pat' and the crowd got loud when she walked out, people respect Pat and people back her and care about her," said Shekinna Stricklen, who led Tennessee with 22 points.

NO. 12 OHIO ST. 83, SOUTHERN 49: Tayler Hill had 21 points, four assists and five steals in 29 minutes for the host Buckeyes (9-0).

NO. 23 DEPAUL 78, PRINCETON 67: Anna Martin had 14 points, eight rebounds and six assists for the visiting Blue Demons (9-2).

NEWBERRY 59, SAINT LEO 46: The visiting Wolves opened with an 18-0 run and had 21 points off 18 turnovers by the Lions (6-1).

Men

NO. 14 WISCONSIN 60, MILWAUKEE 54: Jared Berggren had 17 points and Jordan Taylor hit a critical 3-pointer with just more than 40 seconds left to help the visiting Badgers (9-2) fend off a second-half surge.

NO. 17 MISS. ST. 75, FAU 68: Dee Bost had 22 points, Rodney Hood added 19 and the host Bulldogs (10-1) survived a late scare.

NO. 20 MICHIGAN 63, ARK.-PINE BLUFF 50: Freshman Trey Burke scored 13 of his 15 in the first half, and the host Wolverines (8-2) went on an early 19-point run and cruised.

UCF 77, N.C. A&T 65: Marcus Jordan tied a career high with 28 points and his brother, Jeff, added nine points and six assists for the host Knights (7-2).

NEW ORLEANS 66, SAINT LEO 55: The host Privateers blew open a close game with a late 10-0 run to put away the Lions (5-3).

BUCKEYES WAITING: Ohio State coach Thad Matta still isn't sure when star forward Jared Sullinger will play again. Matta said Sullinger is able to run, jump and shoot but still hasn't recovered enough from back spasms that have kept him out of two games for the No. 2 Buckeyes.

NO. 12 KANSAS: Freshman Ben McLemore was arrested after missing a Dec. 6 court appearance to answer a citation for underage possession of alcohol.

SETON HALL: Freshman forward Brandon Mobley, who dislocated his right shoulder and tore his labrum over the summer, was cleared to play.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — The Rays haven't seen the last of Kelly Shoppach.

Shoppach signed a one-year, $1.35 million deal with the rival Red Sox and presumably will displace veteran Jason Varitek as Boston's primary backup.

Though the Rays had the first right of refusal on Shoppach —declining his $3.2 million option after he hit .176 last season — having him go to a division rival is not optimal given his knowledge of the Tampa Bay staff.

"That's probably part of the reason why they signed him," Rays manager Joe Maddon joked. "He's probably underneath the heat lamp right now spilling his guts."

Shoppach, 31, began his career with the Sox, then was traded to Cleveland in 2006. In two seasons with the Rays, he hit .185 with 16 homers and 39 RBIs in 150 games but earned praise for his work behind the plate.

"I'm excited to be going back to Boston," Shoppach posted on his Twitter account. "Thanks #Rays twitfam. I hope we can still be friends."

The Rays last month signed veteran Jose Molina for $1.5 million, though at this point they plan to pair him with the inexperienced Jose Lobaton or Robinson Chirinos. They are not likely to have interest in Varitek.

Also:

• Maddon served meals at Salvation Army centers in Bradenton and St. Petersburg as part of his annual Thanksmas event, and plans to expand. "It keeps gaining momentum," he said. "I'm never satisfied. I know this is great and wonderful for a lot of folk, but I want it to keep getting better." Maddon leaves Thursday for Pennsylvania to host Hazleton Integration Project events to improve his hometown.

• Maddon welcomed the return of left-hander J.P. Howell to the bullpen. "I really want to believe that J.P. is going to have a nice rebound in him this year," he said.

• Former big-leaguer Rico Brogna was hired as a pro scout.

Around the majors

LABOR DEAL: Baseball's new labor contract includes more video replay, the chance for a longer All-Star break and a small but likely welcome perk for players: the chance to get a private room during spring training. It also allows teams from the same division to face off before the LCS.

CARDINALS: Second baseman Skip Schumaker agreed to a $3 million, two-year deal.

ORIOLES: Japanese left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada agreed to a two-year, $8.15 million contract.

PHILLIES: Left-hander Dontrelle Willis agreed to a one-year contract worth about $1 million.

REDS: Right-hander Andrew Brackman, a former Yankees first-round pick, agreed to a one-year contract.

Information from Times wires was used in this report. Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

The Rays have one of those good kinds of problems, with an excess of starting pitching. They insist they're not seeking to trade one and would be fine going to spring training with all eight. But with several holes elsewhere in their lineup, the expectation around the game is that they are looking to make a deal. And with Matt Moore set to join the rotation, thanks to a new contract that removes any financial incentive to have him open the season in the minors, they are positioned to discuss just about anything. Based on conversations with executives, scouts and others, plus performance and financial matters, here is a ranking of whom the Rays are most likely to trade.

1. WADE DAVIS

>> Age: 26

>> Stats: 25-22, 4.22, 388.1 IP, 1.355 WHIP

>> Contract: Under control for six years for $34.1 million; guaranteed $9.1M through 2014, options through '17 totaling $25M.

>> The pitch: Davis is exactly what most teams want: a young, strong starter who can log innings with the stuff to be a steady winner. And, as important, with an affordable long-term contract. The Rays like that, too, of course, but they have other, and potentially better, pitchers, which makes Davis the most likely to go. Other teams seem to prefer Davis over Jeff Niemann based on his age and upside, though he has been on the DL the past two seasons. The Rays, though, have to consider that he might be the best of the starters to move to the bullpen. The key will be whether Davis has enough value alone (or with some toss-ins) to bring the Rays the impact bat they need.

2. JEFF NIEMANN

>> Age: 28

>> Stats: 38-23, 4.16, 506.1 IP, 1.300 WHIP

>> Contract: Arbitration eligible for next three years; potential to make $2.5M in '12, $15M through '14.

>> The pitch: When healthy and mechanically sound, Niemann can be a dominant winner, which makes him more of a gamble — either to trade or to keep. Some scouts are intrigued enough to rank him higher than Davis on their lists, but he's not likely to bring as much in return, especially since he could become very expensive quickly if he has that big year. The Rays have invested more than $7 million to get to this point, so they may prefer another year to see what they have if he can stay healthy.

3. JAMES SHIELDS

>> Age: 29

>> Stats: 72-63, 3.96, 1227 IP, 1.233 WHIP

>> Contract: Team options for three years for $29M.

>> The pitch: Of the top three, there's no doubt Shields, coming off his spectacular 2011 season, would bring the largest return, at least the one big bat they need plus more. While his options are reasonable for most teams, salaries of $8 million (2012), $9 million ('13) and $12 million ('14) are a bit hefty by Rays standards. And given the Rays' defining buy-low/sell-high philosophy, it would seem — unless they are sure last season (16-12, 2.82) is more representative than 2010 (13-15, 5.18) — they have to trade Shields now. But there is also considerable value to keeping him around: tangibly, given the 200-plus innings they can bank on; and intrinsically, given the leadership, competitiveness and example-setting he provides. Especially with what they view as a real chance to win again in 2012.

4. David Price

>> Age: 26

>> Stats: 41-26, 3.38, 575.1 IP, 1.199 WHIP

>> Contract: Arbitration eligible for next four years; potential to make $4-5M in '12; $35M through '15.

>> The pitch: Price is the wild card in this discussion. Why would the Rays even consider trading a talented young left-handed ace with a brilliant future? Because he's going to quickly become very expensive. And because in between flashes of brilliance he has been frustratingly inconsistent. And because he could bring a staggering haul in return. Sure, it's unlikely. Improbable, even. But the Rays have to at least think about it, especially if another team wants to make it incredibly worth their while with a blockbuster package.

5. Alex Torres

>> Age: 24

>> Stats: 1-1, 3.38; 8 IP, 1.875 WHIP

>> Contract: Under control for six years; '12-14 at close to MLB minimum, then arbitration.

>> The pitch: Torres has yet to show the command necessary to be in the rotation, but the tools are intriguing. He has the lowest current value of the eight starters, which means he would be available but also wouldn't bring much in return. He needs more time at Triple A and the Rays need depth there.

6. Alex Cobb

>> Age: 24

>> Stats: 3-2, 3.42, 52.2 IP, 1.329 WHIP

>> Contract: Under control for six years; '12-14 at close to MLB minimum, then arbitration.

>> The pitch: Cobb was making an impressive rookie run until needing season-ending August surgery to remove part of a rib. He's supposed to be ready to go by spring training, but teams are going to want to see him first. The Rays do, too, and value the future upside and 2012 depth he can provide too much to trade him at any kind of discount.

7. Jeremy Hellickson

>> Age: 24

>> Stats: 17-10, 3.04, 225.1 IP, 1.145 WHIP

>> Contract: Under control for five years; '12-13 at close to MLB minimum, then arbitration.

>> The pitch: There is some quibbling over Hellickson's stats, specifically his increased walks and decreased strikeouts, but the results have been impressive. Though the likelihood of a long-term deal is diminished since he's repped by Scott Boras, Hellickson's high upside and low salary at least the next two years make him way too much of a good deal to consider moving.

8. Matt Moore

>> Age: 22

>> Stats: 1-0, 2.89, 9.1 IP, 1.286 WHIP

>> Contract: Under control for eight years for $40M; guaranteed $14M through '16, options through '19 totaling $26M.

>> The pitch: Moore was already projected as a long-term piece of the rotation based on his potential, and his new team-friendly contract makes him and 3B Evan Longoria two of the best deals in the game, as close to untouchable as there is.

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com.

Times wires
Tuesday, December 13, 2011

nba

nene re-signs with nuggets for five years

DENVER — The Nuggets re-signed Nene to a five-year deal, keeping the unrestricted free agent through 2015-16.

The Denver Post first reported the center had agreed to the contract that could be worth up to $67 million.

Nene averaged 14.5 points and 7.6 rebounds last season.

Also, the team acquired versatile swingman Rudy Fernandez and forward Corey Brewer from the Mavericks for a future second-round pick.

Bucks: The team re-signed free agent Luc Richard Mbah a Moute to a multiyear contract.

Nets: Free agent forward Shelden Williams signed. A five-year veteran who has played for six teams, he has averaged 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds in 303 games.

Timberwolves: The team traded forward Lazar Hayward to the Thunder for two conditional second-round draft picks and guard Robert Vaden.

Warriors: Free agent center Kwame Brown has agreed to terms on a one-year, $7 million contract.

Wallace gets probation: Pistons center Ben Wallace was sentenced to a year of probation but avoided jail time on drunken driving and gun possession charges stemming from a September traffic stop in suburban Detroit. Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Shalina Kumar also sentenced Wallace to fines, court costs and 30 hours of community service.

ex-point guard charged after crash: Retired point guard Kenny Anderson has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident in Miramar, police said. Anderson, 41, was arrested late Sunday after crashing into two trees and walking away, Miramar police said in a report. He was briefly jailed before posting bond. Anderson left a bar before crashing his SUV and a Pembroke Pines police officer went to his home and advised him to return to the scene, the report said.

golf

Donald voted player of year

Already No. 1 in the world, Luke Donald now is No. 1 in the eyes of PGA Tour players.

Donald capped off a sensational season by winning PGA Tour player of the year, the most significant of the postseason awards because it's a vote of the players.

He became the first British player to win the award since it began in 1990.

"It's a great honor to cap off what has been an amazing year for me," Donald said from the Australian Masters in Melbourne. "Thank you to all the players for their votes. … I feel very honored at the moment."

Donald, 34, won the award over Keegan Bradley, Bill Haas, Webb Simpson and Nick Watney.

It was only the fifth time in two decades that the PGA Tour player of the year did not win a major.

et cetera

Horses: Rapid Redux tied a North American record for most wins in a calendar year with his 19th straight. The 5-year-old gelding led the 1 1-16 mile starter allowance at Laurel (Md.) Park from the start and held off Awesome Rhythm to win by a half-length. Ridden by J.D. Acosta, Rapid Redux has won 21 consecutive races and tied Citation, who won 19 straight in 1948.

Speed skating: Jilleanne Rookard won the 3,000-meter race and Jonathan Kuck took the 5,000 on the first day of the U.S. long track championships in West Allis, Wis. Kuck finished first in the men's race in 6:20.68 to edge four-time Olympic medalist Shani Davis (6:30.82). Rookard won with a time of 4:11.34.

Times wires

By Capt. Tim Whitfield, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

KNEE-DEEP: The tides last week associated with the full moon left the shallow flats looking more like barren mud flats. I ran a few trips on this tide and it can be extremely good fishing. The fish stack in the deeper holes and the edges of flats. There, redfish and gangster trout hang out in a foot of water. If you can navigate to these areas you can score big.

THE RIGHT BOAT: Choosing to run the poling skiff, not the bay boat, allows access to shallower water and is well suited for the more hard-core fisherman. Shallow-water fish can be super spooky. Fish that mingle with mullet seem to be more at ease and are not spooked by the plop of a jig tossed into their vicinity.

BAIT: The baits that produce are the shad tail types in dark-color backs and a gold or silver flash on the belly, jerk worms rigged weedless in the same color pattern and gold spoons are always a good seek and destroy bait!

MAN OVERBOARD: If you decide to bail out of the boat, a snug fitting pair of sneakers or wading boots are a must to protect your feet, as is the sting ray shuffle. Fish the mullet in the knee-deep range and don't be afraid to work the bait fast. The fish mixed in with the mullet are feeding aggressively and will chase a lure to get a meal.

The next negative low tides are around the new moon: three days leading up to Christmas and the three days after.

Capt. Tim Whitfield can be reached at (813) 714-0889 or tim@swiftfishcharters.com.

By Rod Gipson, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

TAMPA — The "culture" was evident from a young age.

No pressure, mind you. Just a family chock-full of leaders, winners and doers with deep and important ties to the Tampa community — South Tampa, in particular.

So when Plant High quarterback James Few takes the field Saturday with a shot at helping the Panthers win the Class 8A state football championship, he will be looking to write his own chapter in his family's historic book.

"I don't think there was a lot of pressure on us to do well (in my family) as much as it was cultured," Few said. "My grandparents were and are very smart people; my parents accomplished things. I am aware of that."

The Few name is well-recognized countywide.

James Few's father is John Few, a financial adviser with Morgan Stanley Smith Barney and Plant's defensive coordinator. James' mother, Irene, is a well-known Realtor in the area. John's father, Crosby Few, the family patriarch who died last year, was the Hillsborough County School District attorney for almost 40 years. John's mother, Adelaide, is an attorney and former federal prosecutor.

This list goes on.

James' aunt (Dad John's sister) Jennifer Burchill is Hillsborough County's assistant athletic director. And James' other aunt Terrin is married to Rich McKay, former Buc's general manager and now Atlanta Falcons president.

The opportunity to add to the lore isn't lost on 18-year-old James.

"This is once-in-a-lifetime," James said of Saturday's championship game at Orlando's Florida Citrus Bowl against undefeated Miramar.

"This is it, my one shot, our one shot. We've been working toward this for four years for this group of seniors. This is the moment."

James will share the moment on the field with his father and brother William, a junior who handles kicking and punting duties for the Panthers.

"I've been coaching high school football for 22 years, and this is the only year the three of us have been on the same team," said John Few, who spent 15 seasons as a coach at Jesuit before coming to Plant in 2005. "I have made it a point to relish this year with James and William."

Not that the road to this state title game has been completely smooth.

James spent time as a wide receiver before becoming former Panthers' quarterback Phillip Ely's backup. He also played safety before a serious elbow injury last season cut his year short. This year, he didn't establish his starting status as quarterback until the first week of the season.

But James, a swimmer, baseball and basketball player as a youth, solidified a standout season by completing 63 percent of his passes while throwing for 2,462 yards and 29 touchdowns, and leading Plant to a 13-1 record and a fifth appearance in a state title game in six years.

"And he did all that and carried four AP classes," John says proudly. "He (James) is much better at pressure situations than I ever was. I'm proud of the focus and the fortitude he shows with his goals."

But there is one more goal at hand for the Few clan.

One more game, one more win.

"It's been pretty magical this year with my dad on the sideline," James said. "And this is our one chance together. It would mean a lot to me to win. It'll mean a lot to my dad. And my mom. But it's not just me doing this.

"This would be something we accomplish all together."

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

TAMPA — Coach Raheem Morris indicated there was "common ground," among the Bucs owners and general manager Mark Dominik to keep CB Aqib Talib on the team following his arrest for a shooting incident in March in Garland, Texas.

Morris was responding to a Yahoo Sports story, citing a team source, that said Dominik and management was ready to cut ties with Talib after his arrest. But the NFL lockout prevented transactions and provided Morris with time to make Dominik reverse course, Yahoo reported.

"In the process, Morris sent a message to his young team that talent trumps character," the story said.

On April 24, the St. Petersburg Times reported "barring a last-minute change of heart — or perhaps his exoneration — the Bucs are expected to release troubled cornerback Aqib Talib. Only the lockout, which prevents teams from making transactions, has prevented Tampa Bay from already cutting ties with its 2008 first-round draft pick."

On Aug. 27, Dominik announced NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell had ruled Talib would not be suspended for the 2011 season. The league is monitoring the outcome of his trial, scheduled for March 2012.

Talib has had no off-field incidents this season but has been plagued recently by a hamstring injury. He participated in only four plays against Carolina two weeks ago and was inactive in Sunday's 41-14 loss to Jacksonville. Talib has two interceptions, returning both for touchdowns.

Morris was asked Wednesday if he had to convince the Glazer family and Dominik to keep Talib.

"Generally, you never talk about sources and all that type of stuff," Morris said Wednesday. "Sources usually end up getting fired. What we want to do, is basically talk about the Cowboys. All the decisions will be made between myself and Mark Dominik — and I messed this up the other day — if your last name begins with G. That's usually the process that we take. There's always going to be a common ground between all of us."

K2 HAS MORRIS' BACK: TE Kellen Winslow says if Morris were fired, it would "ruin" the Bucs.

There's speculation that Morris is on the hot seat after seven straight losses. Tampa Bay (4-9) hosts the Dallas Cowboys (7-6) in a nationally televised game on NFL Network Saturday.

"We can't have anything happen to him," Winslow said Wednesday. "We just can't. It will just ruin the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If something were to happen to him we would be devastated and hearts would be broken. We play for him."

Dominik and the Glazers have declined to comment on Morris' status. But Morris appreciated Winslow's endorsement.

"Good for Kellen," Morris said. "I'm going to go get that story and read it."

INJURIES: WR Arrelious Benn (concussion), DE Michael Bennett (toe), DT Albert Haynesworth (knee) and DT Brian Price (ankle) did not participate in practice Wednesday. WR Sammie Stroughter (knee) was limited. CB Aqib Talib (hamstring) and S Larry Asante (hamstring) had full participation.

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

TAMPA — Coach Raheem Morris indicated Wednesday there was "common ground" among the Bucs' owners and general manager Mark Dominik to keep CB Aqib Talib on the team after his arrest in a shooting in March in Garland, Texas.

Morris was responding to a Yahoo Sports story that said Dominik and management were ready to cut ties with Talib. But the lockout prevented transactions and provided Morris with time to make Dominik reverse course, Yahoo Sports reported.

"In the process, Morris sent a message to his young team that talent trumps character," the story said.

On April 24, the St. Petersburg Times reported that barring a last-minute change of heart or perhaps Talib's exoneration, the Bucs were expected to release Talib, who had been in trouble off the field before, and that only the lockout had prevented Tampa Bay from already cutting ties with its 2008 first-round draft pick.

On Aug. 27, Dominik announced commissioner Roger Goodell had ruled Talib would not be suspended for the 2011 season.

Talib is charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in the shooting. Police say he pistol whipped and attempted to shoot at his sister's boyfriend before the pistol jammed.

The league will monitor his trial, scheduled for March 2012.

Talib has had no off-field incidents this season. He has been plagued recently by a hamstring injury. He participated in four plays against Carolina two weeks ago and was inactive in Sunday's 41-14 loss to Jacksonville. Talib has two interceptions, returning both for touchdowns.

Morris was asked Wednesday if he had to convince the Glazer family and Dominik to keep Talib.

What we want to do is basically talk about the Cowboys (Saturday's opponent)," Morris said. "All the decisions will be made between myself and Mark Dominik and … if your last name begins with G. That's usually the process that we take. There's always going to be a common ground between all of us."

K2 HAS MORRIS' BACK: TE Kellen Winslow said if Morris were fired, it would "ruin" the Bucs.

There's speculation Morris is on the hot seat after seven straight losses. Saturday night, Tampa Bay (4-9) hosts the Cowboys (7-6) in a game televised on the NFL Network.

"We can't have anything happen to him," Winslow said. "We just can't. It will just ruin the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If something were to happen to him, we would be devastated, and hearts would be broken. We play for him."

Dominik and the Glazers have declined to comment on Morris' status. Morris appreciated Winslow's endorsement.

"Good for Kellen," Morris said. "I'm going to go get that story and read it."

INJURIES: WR Arrelious Benn (concussion), DE Michael Bennett (toe), DT Albert Haynesworth (knee) and DT Brian Price (ankle) did not participate in practice. WR Sammie Stroughter (knee) was limited. CB Aqib Talib (hamstring) and S Larry Asante (hamstring) had full participation.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

TAMPA — The players yelled as their teammates competed for pucks. They cheered when on the winning side.

The Lightning during Wednesday's practice looked more like a bunch of kids at recess than a team that has lost seven of eight games and 11 of 15.

Coach Guy Boucher set the tone, turning drills aimed at specific deficiencies into mini competitions, but the players buying in really made it work.

"With the team we have, we look forward coming to the rink and seeing each other every day," defenseman Brett Clark said. "We're sticking together, and we know we're going to get out of this together."

Say this for Tampa Bay's players: During a time when it would be easy to point fingers, they have remained loyal. During a time in which the edges of camaraderie could fray, they seem as tight-knit as ever.

"We're in it as a team," Clark said. "Since the coaching staff and management came in (before last season), that's their big thing. You don't point fingers. It's never the same guy. It could be anyone any night. We're a team, and that's how we're going to get out of this funk."

The funk has been deep.

Goaltending, especially from No. 1 Dwayne Roloson, has been unreliable. The defense has been turning over pucks at an alarming rate, the power play is benign, and the team has scored more than two goals only four times in its past 16 games.

Those are pretty ripe conditions for dissension to fester and cliques to form.

Captain Vinny Lecavalier, in his 11th season with Tampa Bay, said he has seen it with other Lightning teams and it is an uncomfortable situation.

"When fingers start to be pointed in the room, that's when everything starts to crumble," he said. "But we're not pointing fingers. We have a good bunch of guys. Everybody is on the same page and together as a team."

Boucher cultivates that attitude. That is why he set up three "games" at Wednesday's practice with rewards for the winners.

The winner of the puck-pursuit drill — a drill to remind of Boucher's edict to "be relentless" — got to take a breakaway at the goaltender.

Regardless of winners and losers, the goal, Boucher said, is to reinforce a team bond and that players must work together:

"You're with a group of individuals, and if your vision and your goal is clear and you don't move away from it and you don't lose your spirit through tough times, you're going to get it. When are you going to get it? I don't know, but you're going to get it."

Against the Flames tonight at the St. Pete Times Forum would be just fine for a team three points from the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

"We don't have a choice. We have to stick together," left wing Ryan Malone said. "It's like any stretch of losing. You know you're going to go through it at some point during the year. We're going through a bad one right now. But if everyone sticks together, you're going to come out on the other side, and you're going to be closer team for it."

MINOR MOVE: AHL Norfolk signed Jean-Philippe Cote to a minor-league contract. … Rookie wing Brett Connolly, released by the team to attend the selection camp for Canada's world junior championship team, made the final 22-player roster. The tournament is Dec. 26-Jan. 5 in Calgary and Edmonton.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

What's hot: When the water temperature dropped recently, most of the trout and mullet moved off the flats. Trout normally would move to the edge of the drop-off closest to the flat. They want warmer water more than a safe place to hang. I found good numbers of trout in areas they normally don't hang in. You had to be in 4 feet or deeper to locate the schools. The bigger trout stayed in the 4-foot zones closest to the flats. Once located, we were able to catch and release 100 trout in four hours.

Tackle: The best action came when using dark jigs worked close to the bottom. In some areas, the trout hit best when we used a slow lift-and-drop technique to give the trout more time to check out the lure. There were ladyfish hanging with the trout. They ripped the tails off the jig after a few casts. To combat this problem, we glued the tail to the jig head.

What's next? Now that the water temperature is slowly rising, look for trout to move closer to the drop-off or onto the flats. This time of the year you'll want to follow the rise and fall of the water temperature. It will help you locate the movement of the schools. When the temperature drops, move off the flats. When it warms, move back.

Doug Hemmer charters out of St. Petersburg and can be reached at (727) 347-1389.

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

What is the biggest difference between the Josh Freeman of last year and the Josh Freeman of this year?

Well, that's the big question. I watched him last season, when he was terrific. I watched the tape this season of the Indianapolis game when he was (25-for-39) and the Atlanta game when he looked good. Then you see him struggle like he has recently. The first thing I would ask is: Is he okay physically? Is he injured? I'm not privy to that information, but we really don't know how healthy he is. The other thing I look at is the players around him. For example, (tackle) Donald Penn had a rough day (Sunday), and things like that affect how Josh Freeman plays.

Are you surprised where the Bucs are this season, or did you think they overachieved last season?

I was surprised they had as good of a record as they did a season ago. I was surprised by 10-6. And I said coming into this season that they might be a better football team but actually have a worse record. They are in a tough division. When I look back at this season, they had that awful loss against San Francisco. They lose to a team like New Orleans. Those are good teams. What troubles me is the last two weeks, losing to Jacksonville and Carolina badly. (Sunday) was not good at all. You have a team that's reeling. You jump out to a 14-point lead and you need to bury that team. Instead, you get run over and lose that bad? Not good.

What is your opinion of the job done by coach Raheem Morris?

Well, he was 10-6 a year ago. They got off to a good start this year, and there was a lot of excitement. But this (seven-game) losing streak is troubling. The reality in this league is that you have to produce. It's about results. There still is a lot to play for this season.

This Bucs season, obviously, is gone. What are you interested in seeing from this team in the last three games? What are you looking for Saturday night?

Well, I'm looking still to see if guys are improving, if they're getting better. I'm looking for efficiency. They have to cut down on turnovers. They turned the ball over seven times last week. They have to cut down on penalties. So No. 1, I'm looking for them to take care of the football. And No. 2, fewer penalties. Those two things — turnovers and penalties — those are coach killers.

On another NFL topic, what are your thoughts on Tim Tebow?

I say right now that we should all just sit back and enjoy it. It's an amazing story. The thing I love about it is that he is changing the way defenses have to play. He is forcing NFL defenses and defensive coordinators to prepare for something that they're not used to. That's great.

Finally, you call Notre Dame games for NBC. Your thoughts on former Irish coach and Gators offensive coordinator Charlie Weis leaving Gainesville for the Kansas job?

That move caught me flat-footed. I bought into Charlie wanting to be in Gainesville with his family. I thought what he'd like about Florida is that he could work on offensive schemes, which he is very good at doing, and just go out and recruit a little locally. Now he has to do a lot of recruiting, and it's a very difficult job. I wasn't sure Charlie wanted to spend so much of his time trying to get 18-year-olds to come play for him, so I'm a little surprised. It's not an easy job.

Tom Jones' two cents

Mike Mayock is known as having one of the sharpest football minds in broadcasting. That's understandable considering he grew up the son of a high school coach, played defensive back collegiately at Boston College and in the NFL with the Giants, and now spends much of his time pouring over game film. He has worked as an analyst on NBC's coverage of Notre Dame for the past two seasons and is in his first season as a game analyst for the NFL Network. Mayock will be at Raymond James Stadium on Saturday for the Bucs-Cowboys game. On Wednesday he spent a few moments by phone with St. Petersburg Times staff writer Tom Jones to talk about what's wrong with Bucs quarter­back Josh Freeman, Bucs coach Raheem Morris' future and what he thinks about Broncos (and former Florida) quarterback Tim Tebow.

By John Romano, Times Sports Columnist
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — One bat. That's all it will take.

One bat. And I like the Rays better than the Yankees or Red Sox.

One bat. And I think Tampa Bay is back in the World Series in 2012.

Is that an overly simplified view? Sure it is. It's probably overly optimistic, too. Getting to the playoffs is the real challenge. Making it to the World Series is a roll of the dice.

But here, in the safety of the offseason, it is easier to make a case for success. To see more potential than flaws, and to imagine comebacks and breakthroughs all around.

And what I see today is a team that might have the best starting rotation in the American League. A team that plays defense better than any other. A team that could be one middle-of-the-order bat away from glory.

Now admittedly, prophecy is not my strong suit. I'm the guy who said the Rays couldn't catch the Red Sox this year. I thought the Bucs would go 9-7, and I didn't think Nucky would pull the trigger on Boardwalk Empire.

So keep that in mind as you continue to read. Smirk, scoff or raise an eyebrow, and I will not blame you. But at the same time, keep an open mind when you view this roster.

And consider that the Rays took an expected step backward last season and still managed to win 91 games because they were better at preventing runs than any team in the league.

A season later, there is no need to worry about cutting salaries. In fact, the payroll will go up. The Rays were in the $41 million vicinity in 2011 and should jump to the $50 million range in 2012. If the right deal presents itself, they could stretch to $55 million.

That means this offseason should be more like the winter of 2009 or '10, when the Rays were willing to take strategic gambles such as adding Pat Burrell at $8 million a season and Rafael Soriano at $7.25 million. The Rays won't hand a four- or five-year deal to a 30-something free agent, but they may take on a two-year commitment for the right veteran.

What does that mean in practical terms?

There are too many possibilities to count. It could mean they are waiting to see if the market fails to develop for a Carlos Peña or a Carlos Beltran and the Rays offer a fat salary on a short-term deal. It could mean they are looking for a veteran at the tail end of a contract, a la Paul Konerko. It could mean they go for younger guys who are less proven but provide a larger window of control.

It won't be a shortstop. And it won't be a catcher, although chances are they will find a lower-priced veteran to split time with Jose Molina.

That leaves first base and designated hitter. And because the Rays put such a premium on defense, there's probably a good chance they sacrifice some power at first base and take a shot at re-signing Casey Kotchman.

Which leaves DH. Now, in some ways, that gives Tampa Bay a wide canvas to work on because defense isn't a concern. But after the Burrell fiasco, the Rays might be inclined to go with someone who has proven he can adjust to a role as a one-dimensional player.

Whatever route they go, the Rays are going to find another bat. And I'm guessing it will be a bat of some consequence. This team is simply too good to do otherwise.

The lessons of recent Oakland and Minnesota teams is that a low-revenue team needs to capitalize when it has a chance. The Rays have done a fine job of balancing today with tomorrow, but that can't go on forever. At some point, you go for broke.

That doesn't mean selling off your best prospects. And that doesn't mean spending so foolishly that you're handicapped for years to come. But there are times when a calculated risk is worth the chance.

That's what the Rays did in 2010 when the payroll eclipsed $70 million. And that's what they did when they signed Troy Percival and Burrell.

The reality is no team in the American League gave up fewer runs than the Rays in 2010-11. And there is no reason to believe that trend won't continue in 2012.

Barring injuries, the rotation will be just as good, if not better. With Molina behind the plate, the defense is also potentially better.

That leaves the offense. The Rays need an upgrade in the middle of the order. They cannot count on making the postseason with 91 wins again. And if they make the postseason, they can not afford any more 4-3 losses.

The dividing line of success in the playoffs in the AL the past five seasons has been from three to four runs. Teams with three runs have gone 4-15. Teams with four runs are 11-8.

In three postseason appearances, the Rays scored three runs or less in 12 of their 25 games. And they were 1-11 in those games. In other words, the rotation is not enough.

So another bat is needed. A consistent bat. A formidable bat.

One more bat, and everything could change.

John Romano can be reached at romano@tampabay.com or (727) 893-8811.

By John Romano, Times Sports Columnist
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

One bat. That's all it will take.

One bat. And I like the Rays better than the Yankees or Red Sox.

One bat. And I think Tampa Bay is back in the World Series in 2012.

Is that an overly simplified view? Sure it is. It's probably overly optimistic, too. Getting to the playoffs is the real challenge. Making it to the World Series is a roll of the dice.

But here, in the safety of the offseason, it is easier to make a case for success. To see more potential than flaws, and to imagine comebacks and breakthroughs all around.

And what I see today is a team that might have the best starting rotation in the American League. A team that plays defense better than any other. A team that could be one middle-of-the-order bat away from glory.

Now admittedly, prophecy is not my strong suit. I'm the guy who said the Rays couldn't catch the Red Sox this past season. I thought the Bucs would go 9-7, and I didn't think Nucky would pull the trigger on Boardwalk Empire.

So keep that in mind as you continue to read. Smirk, scoff or raise an eyebrow, and I will not blame you. But at the same time, keep an open mind when you view this roster.

And consider that the Rays took an expected step backward last season and still managed to win 91 games because they were better at preventing runs than any team in the league.

A season later, there is no need to worry about cutting salaries. In fact, the payroll will go up. The Rays were in the $41 million vicinity in 2011 and should jump to the $50 million range in 2012. If the right deal presents itself, they could stretch to $55 million.

That means this offseason should be more like the winter of 2009 or '10, when the Rays were willing to take strategic gambles such as adding Pat Burrell at $8 million a season and Rafael Soriano at $7.25 million. The Rays won't hand a four- or five-year deal to a 30-something free agent, but they might take on a two-year commitment for the right veteran.

What does that mean in practical terms?

There are too many possibilities to count. It could mean they are waiting to see if the market fails to develop for a Carlos Peña or a Carlos Beltran and the Rays offer a fat salary on a short-term deal. It could mean they are looking for a veteran at the tail end of a contract, a la Paul Konerko. It could mean they go for younger guys who are less proven but provide a larger window of control.

It won't be a shortstop. And it won't be a catcher, although chances are they will find a lower-priced veteran to split time with Jose Molina.

That leaves first base and designated hitter. And because the Rays put such a premium on defense, there's probably a good chance they sacrifice some power at first base and take a shot at re-signing Casey Kotchman.

Which leaves DH. In some ways, that gives Tampa Bay a wide canvas to work on because defense isn't a concern. But after the Burrell fiasco, the Rays might be inclined to go with someone who has proven he can adjust to a role as a one-dimensional player.

Whatever route they go, the Rays are going to find another bat. And I'm guessing it will be a bat of some consequence. This team is simply too good to do otherwise.

The lesson of recent Oakland and Minnesota teams is that a low-revenue team needs to capitalize when it has a chance. The Rays have done a fine job of balancing today with tomorrow, but that can't go on forever. At some point, you go for broke.

That doesn't mean selling off your best prospects. And that doesn't mean spending so foolishly that you're handicapped for years to come. But there are times a calculated risk is worth the chance.

That's what the Rays did in 2010 when the payroll eclipsed $70 million. And that's what they did when they signed closer Troy Percival and Burrell.

The reality is no team in the American League gave up fewer runs than the Rays in 2010-11. And there is no reason to believe that trend won't continue in 2012.

Barring injuries, the pitching rotation will be just as good, if not better. With Molina behind the plate, the defense is also potentially better.

That leaves the offense. The Rays need an upgrade in the middle of the order. They cannot count on making the postseason with 91 wins again. And if they make the postseason, they cannot afford any more 4-3 losses.

The dividing line of success in the playoffs in the AL the past five seasons was from three to four runs. Teams with three runs went 4-15. Teams with four runs were 11-8.

In three postseason appearances, the Rays scored three runs or less in 12 of their 25 games. And they were 1-11 in those games. In other words, the rotation is not enough.

So another bat is needed. A consistent bat. A formidable bat.

One more bat and everything could change.

John Romano can be reached at romano@tampabay.com or (727) 893-8811.

By Eduardo A. Encina, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011

TAMPA — FC Tampa Bay will unveil a new name and a new look Thursday.

The professional soccer club, which completed its second season in the fall, will announce it has acquired the trademark to use the Rowdies name at a news conference on Thursday.

It marks the successful end of a three-year legal battle between the team and the Dallas-based retro sports apparel company Classic Ink, which owned the rights to name of the former Tampa Bay NASL franchise.

On Thursday, the franchise also will unveil a new logo that transitions from the existing shield logo to a retro look that includes the Rowdies name. Rebranding of the team's website, Facebook page and Twitter account also will be announced. New team merchandise will be immediately available.

The club was introduced in June 2008 as the FC Tampa Bay Rowdies, but Classic Ink filed a trademark infringement suit against the team and its parent company, Citrus Ventures, in Texas Northern District Court in April 2009 claiming that the team was using a trademark it owned. FC Tampa Bay removed all Rowdies references from its identity in October 2010.

After this season, which ended with a 1-0 loss to Minnesota in the first round of the playoffs, FC Tampa Bay owner and president Andrew Nestor said the club would continue to work toward obtaining the Rowdies name in the offseason.

"It's something that takes a while," Nestor said at the time. "We're still working toward a resolution, and it's not completely up to us. Those things aren't completely 100 percent in our control, so you do what you can over time."

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, December 14, 2011