Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — It took Demaryius Thomas until the end of his second NFL season to validate his status as the first wide receiver selected in the 2010 draft.

Now he's a household name, despite playing in Denver's read-option offense, where wide receivers serve more as blockers and decoys than pass-catchers.

Thomas ended the fastest overtime in NFL history — 11 seconds — with the longest winning touchdown in any playoff game, his 80-yard catch Sunday from Tim Tebow that sent the Broncos to a 29-23 win over Pittsburgh. Thomas said he didn't realize right away that the game was over — he thought the Steelers would get a possession.

Thomas had 204 receiving yards on four catches to account for nearly two-thirds of Tebow's 316 passing yards.

And this came after a litany of injuries since turning pro: Broken foot, sprained ankle, concussion, torn Achilles' and fractured finger.

"I knew once I got back on the field and got healthy, I can make some plays and help my team," Thomas said.

For much of this season, he was frustrated in an offense that affords receivers few chances to strut their stuff. Thomas played in coach Paul Johnson's triple-option offense at Georgia Tech, a system considered ill-suited for the NFL until the Broncos brought back the read-option at midseason upon Tebow's promotion to starter.

Also, ESPN.com reported Tebow, the former Heisman winner at Florida, got a $250,000 bonus as part of an escalator clause in his contract for each postseason win.

PATRIOTS: The team had a first-round bye, but that doesn't mean things were quiet. Offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien took the head coaching job at Penn State last week. He will be with New England through the end of the season, then be replaced by Josh McDaniels, who was the Pats' offensive coordinator before leaving to coach the Broncos in 2009.

McDaniels joins the Patriots staff in time for this weekend to help them prepare for Denver, the team that fired him in 2010.

"He obviously has some inside information on that team and those players, as he coached them," Pats QB Tom Brady said. "…He's a great coach and we're lucky to have him."

TEXANS: Coach Gary Kubiak says his players won't be distracted by defensive coordinator Wade Phillips' upcoming job interview with the Bucs as they prepare for this weekend's playoff game in Baltimore. "Nothing will change about what we do," Kubiak said.

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The offense was stagnant, Alex Smith was ineffective and the offensive line was completely overmatched.

Few would have thought that the 49ers team that opened the Jim Harbaugh era with a preseason dud at New Orleans would be playing the Saints five months later with a spot in the NFC championship on the line.

"It's not even the same team," LT Joe Staley said. "There's so much more confidence. We're so much more sure of ourselves and the schemes and what we're doing."

During that 24-3 loss, there were few signs of the turnaround Harbaugh has engineered. San Francisco failed to get a first down on its first four drives as the first-team offense never got started. In the first half, the Niners allowed six sacks and completed four passes — with Harbaugh saying rookie Colin Kaepernick would get a shot to compete for a starting quarterback job.

That seems a lot longer than five months ago now.

Smith had by far his best season. He set career highs in completion percentage (61.4), yards passing (3,199) and passer rating (90.7) as the 49ers went 13-3 and won the NFC West.

"We're really improved," C Jonathan Goodwin said. "At that point we had maybe two weeks of practice. It was tough. … Experience playing together is valuable."

GIANTS: New York's defense wanted another shot at Green Bay and Aaron Rodgers after a last-second loss last month.

They got their wish.

Rodgers shredded the Giants for 449 yards and four touchdowns, winning the game 38-35 with a 68-yard drive in the final minute on Dec. 4.

That's ancient history. The Giants' defense has come a long way in five weeks.

The front four is dominating, led by All-Pro and former USF star Jason Pierre-Paul. Justin Tuck is finally healthy, and Osi Umenyiora has recovered from an ankle injury.

And they'll get their second shot at the Packers on Sunday.

"We wanted to see them again, but we realized in seeing them again it would be in a playoff game like this, so obviously we wanted to see them again," Tuck said.

There is a theory that by playing the then-undefeated Packers close, the Giants gained confidence.

"We didn't need that game to understand that," S Antrel Rolle said. "I think that's all within ourselves."

Monday, January 9, 2012

Hall of Fame voting

A player needed 75 percent of the vote to be elected and at least 5 percent to remain on the ballot.

Note: Jeromy Burnitz, Brian Jordan, Terry Mulholland, Phil Nevin, Ruben Sierra and Tony Womack did not receive votes.

NEW YORK — Barry Larkin had no idea in 1982 that he would become a baseball Hall of Famer thanks to Bo Schembechler.

A two-sport standout in his senior year of high school, Larkin went to the University of Michigan on a scholarship to play defensive back for Schembechler's Wolverines. When he arrived in Ann Arbor, Larkin learned he was being redshirted.

"I was a better football player than a baseball player at the time," Larkin recalled. "And that was influential because I just worked on my baseball talent, just that alone. And that was an eye-opener because I got so much better."

So much better that he was elected to the Hall of Fame on Monday with plenty of room to spare. The former Reds shortstop was chosen on 495 of 573 ballots (86 percent) in voting announced by the Baseball Writers' Association of America, well above the necessary 75 percent. Larkin, 47, was on the ballot for the third time.

He will be inducted July 22 in Cooperstown along with the late Ron Santo, elected last month by the Veterans Committee.

"I'm just incredibly, incredibly moved by this whole experience and so humbled by the experience and so excited about being the newest member of the Hall of Fame," Larkin said.

Jack Morris followed Larkin with 382 votes (67 percent), up from 54 percent, and Jeff Bagwell was next with 56 percent. Tampa native Fred McGriff made a sizable jump in his third year on the ballot, picking up 33 votes to improve to 24 percent (137).

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

WASHINGTON — Sean Kilpatrick scored a career-high 27 and Cincinnati made 6 of 6 free throws in the final 70 seconds Monday night to upset No. 11 Georgetown 68-64.

Kilpatrick and Dion Dixon each had four of Cincinnati's 13 steals as the Bearcats forced Georgetown into 17 turnovers, matching the Hoyas' season high. Cincinnati has won eight of nine.

Hollis Thompson and Jason Clark scored 14 each and were a combined 11-of-13 from the field for the Hoyas (13-3, 3-2), whose 59 percent shooting was undone by their carelessness.

Georgetown has lost two straight after an 11-game winning streak. It lost for the first time in 10 home games this season.

NO. 17 UCONN 64, W. VA. 57: Jeremy Lamb had 25 points as the host Huskies (13-3, 3-2 Big East) overcame a 10-point second-half deficit to snap a two-game losing streak.

COACH SUSPENDED: Morgan State coach Todd Bozeman was suspended indefinitely without pay after being accused of punching senior guard Larry Bastfield in Saturday night's victory at South Carolina State. Bozeman denied hitting the player.

AP POLL: Seton Hall moved in at No. 24, its first appearance since January 2001. Creighton re-entered at No. 23. Wisconsin fell out from 18th and Harvard from 22nd. Syracuse was No. 1 for a fifth straight week.

ARKANSAS: The son of coach Mike Anderson was arrested for a second time on suspicion of drunken driving. Michael Anderson, 26, is a video coordinator for the Razorbacks.

TENNESSEE: The NCAA and SEC cleared forward Jarnell Stokes, one of the team's top recruits, to play. A high school transfer as a senior prevented him from playing in the fall.

Women

NO. 13 MIAMI 77, GA. TECH 65: Shenise Johnson had 24 points for the visiting Hurricanes (13-3, 2-1 ACC), who have won four of five.

AP POLL: No. 24 South Carolina entered for the first time in nine years, and Gonzaga joined at No. 23. Penn State and Texas fell out. Baylor remained the unanimous No. 1.

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Going 2-1 including a stunning victory over then-undefeated Green Bay as Kansas City's interim head coach meant a lot more than gratification for Romeo Crennel.

It also persuaded the Chiefs to give the defensive specialist a second chance as a head coach.

The Chiefs announced Monday that Crennel, 64, was the official replacement for the fired Todd Haley, removing his interim tag.

"The three games had a lot to do with where we arrived at this decision," general manager Scott Pioli said. "Some of the things we saw was a great deal of accountability and consistency. There was also a different energy to the football team."

Warm and personable, Crennel is a sharp departure from Haley. Often called a "players' coach," he has been known to write off mistakes as youthful indiscretions. Ironically, being soft with players was a criticism aimed at Crennel when he was fired after four years as head coach in Cleveland with a 24-40 record.

"I'm not exactly sure what a player's coach is," Crennel said. "Sometimes I think players think that a coach who is on their side is a player's coach, who always rules in favor of them may be a players' coach. I know that's not always the case with me. I think that basically, I'm a good guy. And I think this is what players appreciate — players appreciate honesty."

CHARGERS: The team is staying put next season. Owner Dean Spanos said the team will not exercise its right to move for at least another year. The team has an escape clause in their lease at Qualcomm Stadium that each year affords them a three-month window to negotiate with other cities and relocate without the threat of a lawsuit from San Diego, as long as the team pays off existing stadium bonds.

COLTS: Former NFL quarterback Archie Manning says son Peyton was disappointed that Bill Polian was let go as team vice president during last week's leadership shakeup, but that the four-time league MVP remains committed to coming back next season. The elder Manning spoke after presenting a coaching award in New Orleans ahead of Monday night's BCS title game between LSU and Alabama.

JAGUARS: New owner Shahid Khan dismissed Paul Vance as senior vice president of football operations and general counsel. Vance was in charge of contract negotiations and Khan's move might have had something to do with a salary dispute that affects several fired assistants. The team could be on the hook for more than $3 million in salary because of what seems to be a typo in their contracts. ESPN first reported the dispute.

STEELERS: Left tackle Max Starks and nose tackle Casey Hampton both had knee injuries in Sunday's season-ending loss at Denver that could require surgery. And receiver Hines Ward, who turns 36 in the offseason, shot down speculation that he might retire.

PRO BOWL: Redskins linebacker London Fletcher is playing in the all-star game for the third year in a row, replacing injured Bears star Brian Urlacher. And Minnesota's Chad Greenway will replace another injured Bears linebacker, Lance Briggs.

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

NEW ORLEANS — Les Miles came out a winner even before LSU faced Alabama in Monday night's BCS title game.

Miles won the coach of the year award for Division I after he led the top-ranked Tigers to a perfect regular-season record and an SEC championship.

Miles was busy preparing his team for the No. 2 Crimson Tide but said in a video recorded Sunday that he was honored to receive the award, given to the coach who is voted the best example of sportsmanship, integrity, responsibility and excellence on and off the field.

GRIFFIN'S DECISION: Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III met with Baylor coach Art Briles for a second time as he decides whether he will declare for the NFL draft.

Briles said Griffin visited him on the day the new semester of classes began on the Waco campus. The quarterback is projected to be one of the top picks in April if he declares for the draft. The deadline for underclassmen to declare is Sunday.

ARKANSAS ST.: Former Auburn tailback Michael Dyer is transferring to rejoin Gus Malzahn, his former offensive coordinator.

AUBURN: Falcons defensive coordinator Brian VanGorder was named to the same job.

NORTH CAROLINA: Reserve quarterback Braden Hanson graduated and will play his final season of eligibility at North Dakota.

TULSA: Wide receiver and kick returner Damaris Johnson, the NCAA leader in all-purpose yards who was suspended for much of the season after he was charged with embezzlement, is leaving to pursue a pro career.

UCLA: New coach Jim Mora dismissed defensive back Randall Carroll, defensive end Wesley Flowers and tight end Raymond Nelson and hired former Jets assistant coach Sal Alosi as strength and conditioning coordinator.

Monday, January 9, 2012

BOSTON — The league suspended Bruins forward Brad Marchand five games on Monday because of a hit Saturday on Vancouver's Sami Salo.

That was unlikely to settle the bitter words between the teams, who met last spring in the Stanley Cup final.

Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault spoke harshly of Marchand after Saturday's game, saying in part, "(He) plays to hurt players, and in my mind if the league doesn't take care of it, somebody else will."

Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli fired back Monday.

"(Marchand) is no dirtier than maybe two or three of their players," he said. "After a game like (Saturday's), you see all the high-handed propaganda, you feel the need to respond."

The hit left Salo concussed, and he sat out Monday's 2-1 loss at Florida, in which Marcel Goc scored the winner.

Blue Jackets ax coach

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Blue Jackets fired second-year coach Scott Arniel. General manager Scott Howson, who named assistant Todd Richards interim coach, said the season had "gone off the rails." Columbus is 11-25-5, worst in the NHL. Richards, the former Wild coach, debuts for Columbus tonight in Chicago.

AROUND THE LEAGUE: Ducks wing J.F. Jacques was suspended three games for elbowing R.J. Umberger of the Blue Jackets on Sunday. … Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp (upper body) is out 3-4 weeks. … A fan who threw a banana at a black player during a preseason game was fined $200. Christopher Moorhouse lobbed a banana, often a racist gesture, at Flyers forward Wayne Simmonds Sept. 22 in London, Ontario.

First—1, Vancouver, Weise 3 (Malhotra), 3:11. Penalties—Ballard, Van, double minor (roughing), 4:58; Repik, Fla (slashing), 4:58; Versteeg, Fla (tripping), 12:33.

Second—2, Florida, Kulikov 4 (Goc, Matthias), 5:00. 3, Florida, Goc 4 (Kopecky, Versteeg), 10:52 (pp). Penalties—Kulikov, Fla (hooking), 6:21; Weise, Van (holding), 9:15.

Third—None. Penalties—Samuelsson, Fla (tripping), :39; Burrows, Van (interference), 19:31. Shots—Vancouver 10-2-14—26. Florida 6-14-2—22. Power plays—Vancouver 0 of 3; Florida 1 of 3. Goalies—Vancouver, Luongo 17-9-3 (22 shots-20 saves). Florida, Clemmensen 5-1-3 (26-25). A—16,712 (17,040). T—2:18.

By Gary Shelton, Times Sports Columnist
Monday, January 9, 2012

NEW ORLEANS — They kicked the top team in the nation to the curb. They pulled the plug on an electric offense. They dominated from the first down to the last.

Yeah, the players of the University of Alabama were No. 1 enough for everyone.

Their coach was again the smartest guy in the game. Their defense looked like the biggest bullies on the block. And although they spent most of the night scoring three points at a time, they won easily.

In other words, yes, the Crimson Tide players were convincing enough to be champions.

The questions are over now. The cynics are out of questions, and the critics are out of doubts. By the end of Monday night's BCS championship game, a surprisingly easy win over former No. 1 LSU, there was no longer any debate left about this year's national champion.

Most of the night, LSU's high powered offense couldn't find enough space to breath. Remember, this was an offense that scored 35 points or more 10 times in 12 games, but against Alabama, it was as someone had shut off the electricity. There always seemed to be two tacklers in the hole, two defenders on the intended receiver. It was brutal, and it was punishing and, yes, it was enough.

Before this game, some wondered. There were AP voters who suggested that if Alabama wasn't convincing enough in victory, they might just go ahead and vote for LSU despite the final score. How feisty of them. Sure, voters should follow with their consciences, but it was always a silly argument. Both teams knew this game was for the championship. What happened in November only mattered if the world didn't get around to having a January.

"I think that's for the voters to consider," LSU coach Les Miles said. But even he didn't sound as if he believed it.

After this performance, how can you deny this Alabama team? How can you ignore a defense that pushed around LSU's offense as if it was, say, Ole Miss? How can you not acknowledge the sight of Nick Saban, the Nicktator, hoisting another trophy?

Put it this way: Around Alabama, where the fans lay claim to 13 national championships, they know the sight of a championship team by now.

In case you are wondering, yeah, it looks a lot like Monday night.

Start with the image of Saban, hoisting another trophy. This was his third national championship, and second in three seasons, but this must have been the sweetest. Like his players, Saban had to wear a chip on his shoulder for 65 days after losing a 9-6 game to the Tigers in November.

That might have been the difference. Over that span, there might have been a day or two when LSU's players didn't think about that game; you get the feeling there wasn't an hour that went by when Alabama's players weren't annoyed by the memory.

Add in all the attention that LSU was getting with its No. 1 ranking, and all the debate over whether Alabama even deserved another shot, and the result was a defense that played as if it was thoroughly ticked off.

"It was tough losing that game," Saban said. "That demonstrated the character to come back form losing that game and finish the season like they did."

Before the game, Saban had a question for his players. "How bad do you want to finish? How much effort, enthusiasm, toughness are you willing to play with?"

Answer: Plenty. For the night, LSU crossed midfield only once. It finished with five first downs, with 39 yards rushing, with 92 total yards. The Tigers couldn't run. They couldn't pass. They couldn't hide. It was Alabama's night, and in the end, Alabama's season.

Much of that, of course, is a credit to Saban. It's tough enough to beat him once in a year, let alone twice. Say what you want about Saban; the stories of how cold and bloodless he can be have followed him around for years. As a coach, however, Saban is absolutely consumed by games such as this. He outcoached LSU's Les Miles by about, oh, 21-0.

"I did not see it coming," Miles said. "That's my fault. I wish I could have done something to help them."

After this, there shouldn't be any doubt about Saban, either. He's the best coach in college football. This was his third national title, more than Bobby Bowden won, more than Joe Paterno (officially) won. In Alabama, Saban still isn't Bear Bryant, but he has moved ahead of everybody else.

As he lifted another trophy, you could not help but wonder how many of these he might win. College football is a place where a coach can build a kingdom, and Alabama is a place where a good coach is more admired than a good governor. You get the feeling that if he wants, Saban can win another one or two of these trophies. Who is going to stop him?

For now, this is enough. The Tide has captured another championship. It is No. 1 once more.

Anyone who says otherwise wasn't paying attention.

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

PHILADELPHIA — Andre Iguodala scored 20 and Lou Williams added 13 to help the 76ers win their fifth straight game, 96-86, over the Pacers on Monday night.

Led by Iguodala and a deep roster, the Sixers are dominating in the second half to turn close games into comfortable ones. Against the Pacers, it was a 15-3 run in the third quarter that helped them pull away. The Sixers used a 30-8 run in the third to beat Toronto on Saturday.

Indiana's Danny Granger, averaging a team-high 14.9 points, sat out with food poisoning. Pacers guard George Hill (back) also did not play. Roy Hibbert led the Pacers with 19 points and David West had 15 points and 11 rebounds.

Nikola Vucevic hit a 3-pointer that capped the Sixers' run in the third and gave them a 69-54 lead. Jrue Holiday got the lead back to double digits in the fourth with a 3.

Game highlights: Josh Smith scored a season-high 26 and the visiting Hawks shot nearly 54 percent from the field in beating the Nets for the third time this season, 106-101. … Despite shooting 6-of-18 from the field, Carmelo Anthony made the tiebreaking basket with 2:39 remaining and score 22, helping the host Knicks avenge an embarrassing loss to the Bobcats with a 91-87 victory. Anthony scored eight of the Knicks' final nine points. … Andrea Bargnani matched his season high with 31 points, Amir Johnson had a season-high 19 points and 11 rebounds for his second straight double double and the host Raptors beat the Timberwolves 97-87. … Carlos Boozer scored 23 as the host Bulls earned their 13th consecutive victory against the Pistons, 92-68.

Around the league: Raptors center Aaron Gray had a procedure aimed at preventing episodes of a rapid heart rate that have kept the four-year veteran out this season. He's expected to return in two weeks. The ablation was performed at a Toronto hospital. … Celtics forward Jeff Green had surgery at the Cleveland Clinic to repair an aortic aneurysm, discovered by the team medical staff during a routine entrance physical in December.

76ers 96, Pacers 86

INDIANA (86): George 4-16 2-2 13, West 6-14 3-4 15, Hibbert 7-12 5-9 19, Collison 2-11 4-5 8, Jones 5-10 1-1 12, Hansbrough 3-6 4-5 10, Stephenson 1-5 0-0 2, Foster 1-1 1-2 3, Price 1-7 2-2 4. Totals 30-82 22-30 86.

PHILADELPHIA (96): Iguodala 7-16 5-7 20, Brand 3-6 0-0 6, Hawes 5-10 2-2 12, Holiday 4-12 3-3 12, Meeks 2-3 0-0 5, Williams 4-11 3-4 13, Vucevic 5-8 0-0 11, Young 6-7 0-0 12, Turner 2-3 1-3 5. Totals 38-76 14-19 96.

Indiana 20 20 24 22— 86

Philadelphia 25 20 28 23— 96

3-Point Goals—Indiana 4-13 (George 3-8, Jones 1-1, Price 0-2, Collison 0-2), Philadelphia 6-17 (Williams 2-4, Vucevic 1-1, Meeks 1-2, Holiday 1-3, Iguodala 1-5, Turner 0-1, Hawes 0-1). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Indiana 52 (West 11), Philadelphia 51 (Iguodala 9). Assists—Indiana 18 (George 5), Philadelphia 19 (Williams 6). Total Fouls—Indiana 21, Philadelphia 24. A—8,612 (20,318).

Raptors 97, Wolves 87

MINNESOTA (87): W.Johnson 0-5 0-0 0, Love 3-16 5-10 13, Milicic 3-8 0-0 6, Ridnour 6-9 0-0 13, Ellington 2-6 0-0 5, Williams 4-11 5-5 13, Tolliver 0-3 2-2 2, Rubio 2-9 5-7 10, Barea 5-9 4-4 16, Randolph 2-4 5-5 9. Totals 27-80 26-33 87.

TORONTO (97): Butler 1-8 0-0 2, Bargnani 11-25 8-9 31, A.Johnson 7-9 5-6 19, Calderon 6-11 1-1 14, DeRozan 3-11 3-3 9, J.Johnson 2-3 0-0 5, Davis 2-3 0-0 4, Barbosa 2-7 9-9 13, Carter 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 34-77 26-28 97.

Minnesota 25 24 20 18— 87

Toronto 27 28 18 24— 97

3-Point Goals—Minnesota 7-24 (Barea 2-4, Love 2-4, Rubio 1-2, Ridnour 1-3, Ellington 1-3, Tolliver 0-2, Williams 0-3, W.Johnson 0-3), Toronto 3-19 (J.Johnson 1-1, Calderon 1-2, Bargnani 1-6, Barbosa 0-2, DeRozan 0-3, Butler 0-5). Fouled Out—Tolliver. Rebounds—Minnesota 54 (Love 14), Toronto 51 (A.Johnson 11). Assists—Minnesota 14 (Rubio 6), Toronto 16 (Calderon 6). Total Fouls—Minnesota 26, Toronto 28. Technicals—Minnesota defensive three second 2, Toronto Bench. A—14,097 (19,800).

Hawks 106, Nets 101

ATLANTA (106): Radmanovic 4-11 2-2 14, Smith 10-14 6-11 26, Horford 7-14 0-0 14, Teague 8-13 1-2 20, J.Johnson 9-15 4-4 22, McGrady 1-2 0-0 2, Pachulia 0-2 0-0 0, Pargo 2-5 0-0 5, Green 1-1 0-0 3, I.Johnson 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 42-78 13-19 106.

NEW JERSEY (101): Brooks 7-14 2-2 19, Humphries 4-7 5-6 13, Petro 4-8 0-0 8, D.Williams 6-17 2-2 15, Morrow 6-11 4-5 20, Sha.Williams 4-10 0-0 11, She.Williams 3-6 2-2 8, Farmar 2-4 3-4 7. Totals 36-77 18-21 101.

Atlanta 31 25 24 26— 106

New Jersey 18 27 26 30— 101

3-Point Goals—Atlanta 9-21 (Radmanovic 4-11, Teague 3-3, Green 1-1, Pargo 1-3, J.Johnson 0-3), New Jersey 11-22 (Morrow 4-6, Brooks 3-6, Sha.Williams 3-6, D.Williams 1-4). Fouled Out—Humphries. Rebounds—Atlanta 39 (Horford 9), New Jersey 47 (Brooks 10). Assists—Atlanta 26 (Horford, J.Johnson 6), New Jersey 24 (D.Williams 14). Total Fouls—Atlanta 17, New Jersey 20. Technicals—Atlanta defensive three second. A—12,259 (18,711).

Knicks 91, Bobcats 87

CHARLOTTE (87): Diaw 8-12 0-0 19, Thomas 2-7 2-2 6, Diop 1-2 0-0 2, Augustin 4-13 1-1 12, Henderson 7-16 0-0 14, White 7-11 1-2 15, Brown 2-6 0-0 4, Mullens 1-6 2-2 4, K.Walker 2-9 5-7 10, Carroll 0-0 1-1 1, Biyombo 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 34-82 12-15 87.

NEW YORK (91): Anthony 6-18 9-13 22, Stoudemire 7-25 11-13 25, Chandler 7-8 6-8 20, Shumpert 7-13 2-2 16, Fields 2-6 1-2 5, B.Walker 0-2 0-0 0, Harrellson 0-1 1-2 1, Douglas 1-5 0-0 2, Bibby 0-1 0-0 0. Totals 30-79 30-40 91.

Charlotte 21 24 20 22— 87

New York 24 26 22 19— 91

3-Point Goals—Charlotte 7-19 (Diaw 3-5, Augustin 3-9, K.Walker 1-2, Henderson 0-3), New York 1-10 (Anthony 1-2, Douglas 0-1, Bibby 0-1, Stoudemire 0-2, Shumpert 0-2, B.Walker 0-2). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Charlotte 54 (Diaw 10), New York 56 (Chandler 13). Assists—Charlotte 21 (Diaw 7), New York 16 (Anthony 6). Total Fouls—Charlotte 24, New York 22. Technicals—Augustin, White, Charlotte defensive three second, Stoudemire, New York defensive three second. A—19,763 (19,763).

Bulls 92, Pistons 68

DETROIT (68): Prince 5-12 1-2 11, Jerebko 2-8 0-0 4, Monroe 5-9 4-4 14, Knight 6-10 0-0 13, Gordon 4-8 3-4 11, Maxiell 1-12 2-2 4, Wilkins 2-3 1-2 5, Bynum 2-5 0-0 4, Wallace 0-0 0-0 0, Daye 1-4 0-0 2, Macklin 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 28-71 11-14 68.

CHICAGO (92): Deng 2-12 0-0 4, Boozer 9-13 5-6 23, Noah 0-0 4-4 4, Rose 8-16 5-5 22, Brewer 6-9 0-2 12, Gibson 2-7 5-6 9, Korver 2-7 2-2 8, Asik 0-1 0-0 0, Lucas 3-7 0-0 6, Scalabrine 1-1 0-0 2, Butler 1-1 0-0 2. Totals 34-74 21-25 92.

Detroit 21 13 25 9— 68

Chicago 21 22 25 24— 92

3-Point Goals—Detroit 1-4 (Knight 1-1, Jerebko 0-1, Bynum 0-1, Maxiell 0-1), Chicago 3-16 (Korver 2-5, Rose 1-6, Lucas 0-1, Brewer 0-1, Deng 0-3). Fouled Out—None. Rebounds—Detroit 45 (Monroe 10), Chicago 45 (Boozer, Noah 8). Assists—Detroit 14 (Monroe 6), Chicago 19 (Rose 8). Total Fouls—Detroit 21, Chicago 15. Technicals—Chicago defensive three second. A—21,530 (20,917).

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

tennis

australian open loses venus williams

MELBOURNE, Australia — Venus Williams withdrew from the Australian Open on Monday, prolonging her absence from the tour because of an autoimmune disease that can cause fatigue and joint pain.

The seven-time Grand Slam title winner announced on Twitter and her website that she wouldn't play in the year's first major tournament, which starts next week. She added that she plans to be back in action next month.

Williams, 31, hasn't played competitively since Aug. 29 at the U.S. Open. Two days later, she pulled out of that tournament, revealing that she had been diagnosed with Sjogren's syndrome.

The former No. 1 who is 100th in this week's WTA rankings has dealt with a series of health problems, including a hip injury that forced her to withdraw from last year's Australian Open, and a left knee injury that kept her on the sideline between Wimbledon and the U.S. Open in 2010.

Since reaching the semifinal at the 2010 U.S. Open, Williams has played only 11 matches.

Aussie Open seedings: Caroline Wozniacki and defending champion Novak Djokovic are the top seeds at the Australian Open. Djokovic is followed by 2009 champion Rafael Nadal, four-time champion Roger Federer and Andy Murray. Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova is seeded No. 2. Defending women's champion Kim Clijsters is 12th, one spot in front of Serena Williams.

Sydney International: U.S. Open champion Sam Stosur lost to Francesca Schiavone 6-2, 6-4 in the first round. Schiavone beat Stosur, a Tampa resident, in the 2010 French Open final and had little trouble disposing of the local favorite again. Schiavone will next play Daniela Hantuchova, who beat Roberta Vinci 7-5, 6-2.

golf

Stricker stumbles, then recovers

Despite losing most of his five-shot lead in only six holes, Steve Stricker steadied himself in time to kick off the new PGA Tour season with a three-shot victory in the Tournament of Champions in Kapalua, Hawaii.

Right when it looked as though Stricker was coming unglued, he made back-to-back birdies at the turn. That restored his lead to three, and no one got closer than two the rest of the way.

Stricker birdied his last hole for 4-under 69 for his 12th career win, which moved him to No. 5 in the world ranking.

autos

Winless Tagliani to drive for IndyCar

Bryan Herta Autosport has signed Alex Tagliani to drive in the Izod IndyCar Series this season.

The team won the Indianapolis 500 last year with Dan Wheldon as the driver. Tagliani drove the car in last year's season finale at Las Vegas, where Wheldon was killed in an early 15-car accident.

Tagliani has never won in IndyCar, and his career-best finish is fourth in a race.

Dakar Rally: Joan Roma of Spain won the eighth stage in the car category, while Stephane Peterhansel kept the overall lead. In the motorcycle category, defending champion Marc Coma of Spain won the stage and took the overall lead. The 296-mile special stage took riders north from Copiapo, Chile, to Antofagasta.

et cetera

Running: The New York City Marathon will be shown on live national television for the first time in nearly 20 years as part of a new five-year partnership with ABC and ESPN. The race is Nov. 4.

Times wires

Times wires
Monday, January 9, 2012

NEW ORLEANS

The Rematch of the Century, it wasn't.

Alabama romped to another BCS championship against top-ranked LSU with a smothering defensive performance, a numbing barrage of field goals and even a long-overdue trip to the end zone.

Good enough for No. 1, if not a lot of style points.

No. 2 Alabama posted the first shutout in the game's 14-year history, relying on Jeremy Shelley's right leg for most of the points — he made a bowl record-tying five field goals — and letting its defense do the rest. The Crimson Tide romped 21-0 over the Tigers for its second BCS title in three years.

"I think it was a great team win. The defense did a great job," Alabama coach Nick Saban said. "The offense controlled the momentum of the game from the start to finish. It's a great team win. Every fan and supporter in our program — it's great for them."

While only crimson-clad fans will remember this one as a thing of beauty, Alabama (12-1) erased any doubts that it deserved to be in the title game over another one-loss team such as Oklahoma State or Stanford.

The Crimson Tide didn't allow the Tigers to convert a third down until the fourth quarter, and didn't allow a snap in its own territory until there was 7:30 left.

Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower promptly sacked Jordan Jefferson to force a fumble that was recovered by his friend Nick Gentry. The way things were going for the Tigers, it was a fitting way for their best offensive series of the night to end.

"This defense wanted to pitch a shutout," bruising linebacker Courtney Upshaw said. "That's what we did, baby, a shutout."

Trent Richardson added a 34-yard touchdown run moments later to seal it, the only touchdown scored by either team in two meetings this season.

The way the Alabama defense was playing, it might as well have been over at 3-0.

Upshaw made two stellar tackles at the line to force three-and-out on LSU's second possession, and linebacker C.J. Mosley and cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick did so again on its next possession.

LSU (13-1) had beaten eight ranked teams — including Alabama in early November — to establish itself as the clear No. 1, but the Tigers crossed midfield only once in the sequel to the Game of the Century in Tuscaloosa. LSU was outgained 384-92 in total yards and its five first downs were fewest in a BCS title game.

Kenny Hilliard led the Tigers with 16 yards rushing, while Jefferson was 11-of-17 for 53 yards. He was sacked four times and threw a mystifying interception when he attempted to flip away a desperation pass, only to have it picked off because his intended receiver had turned upfield looking to block.

"They're a tough, physical team," Upshaw said. "But we outphysicaled them today."

Times Staff
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Tampa Bay Rowdies will host their annual Select-A-Seat event Feb. 25 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Al Lang Stadium. Fans can tour the stadium and pick their 2012 season seat location. Rowdies players will be on hand to sign autographs and meet fans.

The Rowdies' season starts April 7 at Puerto Rico with the first home game April 14 vs. FC Edmonton. For more ticket information, call (813) 287-1539 or email tickets@fctampabay.com.

By Rick Stroud and Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writers
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

TAMPA — Marty Schottenheimer is likely the oldest head coaching candidate the Bucs will interview at 68, but he believes he may be the best one to lead the youngest team in the NFL.

Schottenheimer interviewed with the Bucs on Tuesday and had what he described as "an enjoyable dialogue.'' Both committed to further discussions.

"I think they've got some great young players on that team," Schottenheimer told the Times. "They've also got some really solid veterans. And when you see them develop, that's always very exciting for every coach.

"In my particular case, I like to work with kids. I refer to them as kids, even though I know they're grown men. But I like to give them the benefit of my insight as to what I've seen and experienced in this business. I am a teacher."

Terry Shea, who worked under Schottenheimer as offensive coordinator with the Virginia Destroyers of the United Football League this season, says his former boss will have no trouble relating to young players.

"I think No. 1, he generates tremendous respect and it's a two-way street that he operates from," Shea said. "The younger player would certainly grow to respect Coach Schottenheimer to the point where they'd run through a wall for him.

"That would be what he brings to the game today, tremendous impact on the younger player, teaching him how to play as professional, how to prepare and consequently how to win."

Schottenheimer would be the polar opposite to fired Bucs coach Raheem Morris, 35.

In 21 seasons as coach of the Browns, Chiefs, Redskins and Chargers, Schottenheimer is 200-126-1. He last coached in the NFL in 2006, when his Chargers went 14-2. But San Diego lost in the second round of the playoffs and he was fired in February 2007.

He noted that of 72 players under contract for the Bucs (including futures contracts), all but 10 are 28 or younger.

"They're some talented players in that group and I think they're committed to finding a way to win," Schottenheimer said. "I like the challenge of building things and with as many young players as there are, you'll get a chance to do that."

The Bucs will have interviewed three other former NFL head coaches over age 55: former Packers and Texas A&M coach Mike Sherman, former Vikings coach Brad Childress and Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips.

Childress, who talked to the Bucs on Monday, is impressed with quarterback Josh Freeman.

"They have a good, young football team," Childress said Tuesday. "I liked Josh when he came out of college. You know, if you don't have (a quarterback), you're always looking for one and I believe he can be that guy."

Childress was the quarterbacks coach for the Eagles from 1999-2002 and helped develop Donovan McNabb. He also was Eagles offensive coordinator from 2003-05.

But the most intriguing candidate is Schottenheimer, whom Shea said was "re-energized'' after leading Virginia to a UFL title in an abbreviated season.

"He's a very demonstrative figure," Shea said. "He stands up, he's got the stature, he's got the strong voice and history he's got the track record of winning. All of that plays into his presentation and how well he's received.

"What he does bring to a football organization, he brings integrity, a no-nonsense approach in terms of how he handles discipline and he holds every person within the organization he's dealing with accountable."

Schottenheimer said there's nothing like watching young players develop into winners.

"To watch these young men take the information that me and the staff provides to them and they, in kind, combine that with the skill set that they have, I live vicariously through their play. It's like me out there doing it."

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Former Florida Gators QB John Brantley is among the players who will participate in the East-West Shrine game on Jan. 21, at Tropicana Field.

Brantley just completed his fifth year with the Gators - the past two as Florida's starter. He was 144-of-240 for 2,044 yards, seven interceptions and 11 touchdowns in his senior season.

Since 1925 the East-West Shrine Game has showcased collegiate football players who have completed their final seasons to give them exposure to NFL scouts and benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children. The East-West Shrine Game is the longest-running all-star college football game.

Shawn Powell of Florida State and Jeremiah Warren and Jerrell Young of USF also are on the East roster.

Here are the full East and West rosters.

By Derek J. LaRiviere, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

BROOKSVILLE — Last May, Paul Whelan had a concern.

Now, with hard work and private money, he is translating that concern into improvements of a park that, not too long ago, the county planned to close.

Ernie Wever Park, the main venue for youth sports in and around Brooksville, is being renovated and expanded under an agreement reached between Hernando Youth League, its affiliate, Brooksville United Soccer, and Hernando County.

The agreement is the brainchild of Whelan, the vice president of Brooksville United.

The concern that inspired him?

The lack of space for soccer teams to play at their home park. Not only does soccer season overlap with football season, which cuts field time for athletes in both sports, but a 400-square foot area outside of these fields was unused.

"We wanted to attract more tournaments to the area and help the local leagues with added field space," Whelan said. "It seemed like a win-win."

He has spent many hours at the park in the past two weeks, seeding fields, spreading sand and supervising a private contractor. Working with Brooksville United president David Shrader and HYL president Mike Walker, everything is coming together.

"We've had the luxury of seeing this through from a dream stage to a planning stage to a reality stage," Shrader said. "By this spring, we'll have better use of the entire (park)."

The expansion will help the local leagues and the community. Ernie Wever has hosted tournaments in the past, including last season's Dixie Baseball state championship, but the park was never equipped for larger soccer events. Because of the two new fields that are being added, HYL has already attracted two upcoming soccer tournaments.

"I'm sure the state baseball tournament's success opened some eyes," Walker said. "I'm sure that (tourism) is the county's interest in approving this plan. It seems like it would help everyone."

The Sunshine Cup tournament will include teams from Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties and attract 200 to 300 people per day in mid February. An agreement has also been reached with the Regions Cup, a week-long state tournament that will attract up to 100 teams.

Along with these events, the county should see an economic boost as hotels and restaurants in the area provide for these visitors.

"We're very excited, and we can't wait until they have everything done," said Tammy Heon, the county's tourism development coordinator. "We do expect to have a positive impact on tourism, and we are blessed to have people in the soccer groups that are invested in the community and their children's lives."

As for Brooksville United, the benefits are obvious. New fields will allow the league to thrive by holding coaches clinics in the summer and possibly start a summer league to register year-round players. Since the organization is funding renovations, increased concessions will help it renew funds as part of the proposal.

It was the local soccer league that brought in licensed contractors to start construction, spending $6,000 out of its own account. To open up the facility, two practice baseball fields have been changed to accommodate the expansion. Two backstops and the pitchers' mounds have already been knocked down along with the removal of all bases.

"We signed an agreement with the county to start opening up some space," Shrader said. "Everything has moved pretty quickly."

Last year, the county planned to close Ernie Wever because of cutbacks in the parks maintenance budget. HYL agreed to charge participants $3 fee to help maintain Ernie Wever and other parks the league uses. The expansion should increase the number of players and therefore the amount of maintenance money it raises.

The proposal to finish the renovation was approved by the Hernando County Commission Tuesday. HYL had previously met with commissioners individually and all were behind the project.

"It was smooth sailing," Whelan said. "We've received nothing but support, and I haven't heard of any resistance to what we're trying to do."

Once it is completely approved, the fields will need to be finished by Feb. 18, the first match scheduled for the Sunshine Cup.

Derek J. LaRiviere can be reached at derekjlariviere@gmail.com or (352) 584-6337.

By Dave Walker, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

January is one of the toughest months for fishing in Tampa Bay. Crazy wind speeds after cold fronts, air temperatures bouncing like a basketball, and fickle fish can test perseverance and patience.

Tip: The best bet has been residential canal systems, which offer a buffer from wind and waves. This is the time of year when canals can be especially productive.

Tactics: Live shrimp are ideal bait because they are slow and an easy target for cold-water, lethargic fish. Cast them close to the docks weighted with a split shot.

Species: Tasty fish can be caught in people's back yards. Redfish, black drum, sheepshead and flounder will bite on cold days.

Tackle: A medium action spinning rod is the most practical and user-friendly set-up for this type of fishing. An accurate cast is required. The wind in this situation can be problematic, and that's where patience is put to the test.

Captain Dave Walker charters out of Tampa Bay and can be reached at (813) 310-6531 or snookfish.com.

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

TAMPA — Nothing shows the family atmosphere of USF football quite like a postseason banquet, and Skip Holtz likes to schedule his biggest recruiting weekend of the year around the event, with Bulls commitments and top targets in attendance.

This is a huge weekend, then, with about a dozen recruits expected in town, including several top prospects the Bulls are trying to poach from other programs.

The biggest name might be Randy "Duke" Johnson, a supposedly solid Miami commitment ranked among the top five running backs in the country, who could be attracted to the opening left by junior Darrell Scott leaving for the NFL draft.

USF doesn't have a linebacker committed, and will host two coveted ones from Jacksonville's First Coast High. Reggie Northrup is committed to Miami and Joseph Jackson to North Carolina; the Bulls recently added a former First Coast teammate, CB Carl Williams, as a preferred walk-on.

Another top LB, Gainesville's Tashon Whitehurst, is visiting despite being committed to Big East rival Syracuse; his teammate and friend, CB Chris Bivins, is an early enrollee who started classes at USF on Monday.

Oakland Park's Kameron Davis, an uncommitted 6-foot-6 OT looking at USF and West Virginia, will attend. Several commitments, including Armwood S Jarvis McCall, will also be there as recruiters as much as recruits.

COULD GO HIGH: Look for a big USF presence in Thursday's MLS SuperDraft, with junior F Dom Dwyer, the Big East offensive player of the year, rated as the draft's No. 2 forward by SI.com and a potential first-round pick. G Chris Blais, who helped the Bulls reach the Elite Eight, is rated by SI.com as the draft's top keeper, and D Aubrey Perry also participated in the MLS combine this week.

ARMS HEALTHY: USF baseball was picked by league coaches to finish fourth in the Big East, setting high expectations considering the Bulls didn't make the eight-team conference tournament in Clearwater last year.

Coach Lelo Prado is encouraged by the progress of three pitchers who missed time in 2011: LHP Andrew Barbosa, recovering from ligament replacement surgery, should be his No. 1 starter, and his likely No. 2, Derrick Stultz, hasn't pitched since 2009 due to shoulder problems. Ray Delphey, who also missed last season, should have a key bullpen role, potentially as closer.

THIS AND THAT: USF's Bill McGillis was at Houston in the late 1990s when new Central Florida athletic director Todd Stansberry worked there, and he calls the Knights' move a "spectacular" hire. … Jose Fernandez has a top-tier outside shooter in G Inga Orekhova, who hit six 3-pointers in her Bulls debut Saturday. Much like soccer's Dwyer, she's a potential one-and-done who might leave after this season to play professionally back in Europe. … USF has advertised a $50,000 position for a sports psychologist to help the Bulls' mental approach to the challenges of college athletics.

Greg Auman can be reached at auman@tampabay.com and at (813) 226-3346.

Times wires
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

NEW ORLEANS — One of Pierre Thomas' teammates referred to him as "an animal" after the Saints' playoff opening triumph over Detroit.

Thomas is just happy to be healthy and able to help New Orleans in another playoff run.

The fifth-year running back was a key player in the Saints' championship two seasons ago, turning screen passes into long touchdowns in both the NFC Championship Game and the Super Bowl. But in 2010 he had a left ankle injury for much of the regular season and was on injured reserve by the time the Saints lost in the playoffs.

Thomas made his postseason return Saturday against the Lions, slipping numerous tackles and bouncing off some heavy hits on his way to 121 combined yards and a touchdown.

"It was very sweet. I'm blessed to continue my career after my injury," Thomas said. "I just keep fighting. I've been pushing and my teammates have my back. I don't even think about the injury. I just go out and keep playing."

Thomas has been effective, but overshadowed both by the Saints' record-breaking passing game and by being part of a deep running back corps. The fifth-year back was second on the team in rushing with 562 yards and five TDs on 110 carries, a respectable 5.1 yards per carry. He also caught 50 passes for 425 yards and a score.

GIANTS: In his first game back with the team on Dec. 4, LB Chase Blackburn intercepted Aaron Rodgers, one of only six non-Packers to catch one of his passes all season. When the Packers won, Rodgers teased Blackburn, saying he didn't recognize him in his new uniform number.

"I think he'll know who 93 is this time," Blackburn said this week.

In December, the team had just lost rookie Mark Herzlich to a sprained ankle, and Michael Boley was slowed with a hamstring injury, so they called the player who had been on the team the previous six years and thrust him into the middle linebacker role.

He made an immediate impact in that Green Bay game. Then Sunday against the Falcons, he made a key third-and-1 stop on Michael Turner.

So the question is …

"I have no idea why he wasn't on the football team all this year," DE Justin Tuck said, shaking his head.

Neither does Blackburn.

"I think I'm heading in the right direction," Blackburn said of making that point. "Every week, I'm getting more comfortable. I can't speak for (the front office), I'm just trying to help this team and continue to go."

Times wires
Tuesday, January 10, 2012

HOUSTON — When the Texans opened training camp, RT Eric Winston wasn't expecting much from the incoming rookie class.

It wasn't that Winston lacked confidence in the draft choices. He just hadn't seen many mature quickly enough to make dramatic impacts.

J.J. Watt, Brooks Reed and T.J. Yates turned out to be exceptions.

The three have been key in helping Houston survive a myriad of injuries to reach the postseason and reach Sunday's second-round game at Baltimore.

"Any time you have this many injuries and you have contributions not from vets, but from rookies stepping up and making big plays in big games, that's why a team goes as far as it does," Winston said.

Watt, who has started all 17 games at defensive end, leads the Texans in tackles for loss and returned an interception for an unlikely touchdown in Saturday's 31-10 win over Cincinnati.

"You want your top picks to be a good player, but they usually don't develop that quickly," defensive coordinator Wade Phillips said.

Yates stepped up after season-ending injuries to QBs Matt Schaub and Matt Leinart. Reed ably moved into a starting role at outside linebacker when star Mario Williams went down.

BRONCOS: WR D'Andre Goodwin was promoted from the practice squad and FB Spencer Larsen (sprained left knee) went on injured reserve.

RAVENS: WR Anquan Boldin, a former FSU star, won a judgment of more than $280,000 in a lawsuit filed in Tallahassee against his former agent. Boldin claimed Darrell Eugene Wills defaulted on a loan.

RATINGS: Denver's Tim Tebow-led victory Sunday earned the highest TV rating for a wild-card game in 18 years. The 29-23 win overtime win over Pittsburgh on CBS drew a 24.0 rating (percentage of TVs) and 40 share (percentage of TVs on at the time). The network said that was the best since 24.1/48 for Chiefs-Dolphins in 1994.

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Tuesday, January 10, 2012