Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

FSU at No. 4 Duke

When/where: 4, Cameron Indoor Stadium, Durham, N.C.

TV/radio: ESPN; 1040-AM

Records: FSU 12-6, 3-1 ACC; Duke 16-2, 4-0

Notable: FSU has trailed for a total of just seven seconds in its last three ACC games — Virginia Tech, North Carolina and Maryland — all wins. The Seminoles have hit their stride offensively, scoring at least 80 against UNC and Maryland. FSU shot nearly 50 percent from the field and the 3-point line in those two games. And the defense has not slacked off either, as FSU is the ACC leader in both blocked shots (6.6 per game) and steals (8.8). … Seminoles F Bernard James has averaged a double double of 14.3 points and 10.0 rebounds the past three games. And G Deividas Dulkys, who averaged 18.0 points and 3.5 rebounds in the last two wins, was named ACC player of the week. … The last time FSU beat both Duke and North Carolina in the same season was 2002 — Jan. 6 (No. 1 Duke) and Jan. 16 (UNC). … FSU is 1-1 in ACC road games this season and is 5-5 in its last 10 ACC road games. … Four of Duke's regular starters average in double figures, led by G Austin Rivers (13.8 points per game), the son of Celtics coach Doc Rivers. … "This game is more about us right now," FSU coach Leonard Hamilton said. "We're just trying to make sure that we're playing the best we can with the talent we have and the system that we have in place. We just need to continue focusing on that. It shouldn't matter who you are playing or who the opponents are if you are focused on doing things the right way."

Times wires

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Ray Rice has appeared in eight playoff games, none more memorable than when he ran for 159 yards to help the Ravens beat the Patriots 33-14 in a January 2010 wild-card game.

On the first play from scrimmage, he ran 83 yards for a score.

"If you want to ask me if that was my fondest moment in my NFL career, yes it was," Rice said. "When you can do something that special in a playoff game in another team's stadium, that was huge. And that's something that I'll cherish for the rest of my life."

About the only thing that could top that is playing in his first Super Bowl, a quest he might realize if he can run wild again in Sunday's AFC title game against those same Patriots.

Now in his fourth season, Rice has emerged as Baltimore's main offensive threat. The 5-foot-8 running back stepped into that role in his second season, when he recorded the first of three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.

Rice has finished each of his four seasons with an appearance in the playoffs. This is the second time Baltimore has advanced to the AFC title game.

"I'm not going to say it's been easy. It's been very hard every year," Rice said.

"I've been spoiled. I've been in the playoffs and played in every single game but one."

Rice was the only player this season with more than 2,000 yards of offense, combining 1,364 rushing yards (and 12 scores) with a team-high 76 catches for 704 yards (and three scores).

It doesn't matter that New England was 31st against the pass this season. Baltimore needs Rice to run the ball effectively. That will make it easier for Joe Flacco to pass and, more important, keep New England's prolific offense on the sideline.

"When you can keep a quick-striking offense off the field, it limits the game," Rice said. "So in order to keep (Patriots quarterback) Tom Brady off the field, I'm just going to say we have to simply execute at a high level."

And the Patriots know it.

"They're the type of team that is going to run the ball," New England defensive tackle Vince Wilfork said. "His size doesn't matter because he has a big heart. I think the guys on that offense rally around him. We have to make sure we contain him and slow him down. If we can do that, I think we'll be okay."

The Patriots probably will have a few new tricks designed to keep Rice in check.

"We always have different schemes (and) game plans," cornerback Devin McCourty said. "The biggest thing is being aware of where he is at all times."

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

Plaxico Burress was one of the driving forces behind the Giants' title run four years ago. He caught 11 passes for 151 yards in the NFC title game then the winning touchdown in the Super Bowl.

Hakeem Nicks is having a similar impact this postseason.

The third-year Giants receiver had seven catches for 165 yards (10 shy of the franchise playoff record set by Bob Schnelker in the 1959 NFL championship) and two touchdowns at Green Bay on Sunday. The week before, Nicks had six catches for 115 yards and two touchdowns at Atlanta.

That's 280 yards, four touchdowns and …

"You ain't seen nothing yet," Nicks said of Sunday's NFC title game against the 49ers. "I think I'm just now peaking. I feel like I know what I'm capable of doing in big games."

Nicks is the third receiver in the Super Bowl era (since 1966) to have multiple games of at least 100 receiving yards and two touchdown catches in the same postseason (49ers' Jerry Rice in 1989 and Cardinals' Larry Fitzgerald in 2008). And he and former Ram Isaac Bruce are the only receivers with two touchdown catches of at least 66 yards in the same postseason, according to Elias Sports Bureau.

While at 6 feet 1, 208 pounds, Nicks is not the physical power the 6-5, 230-pound Burress is, he does have some special gifts. His hands measure 10.5 inches from the base to the top of his middle finger. And they're not just huge.

"These are special hands," Giants coach Tom Coughlin said.

Hicks' biggest touchdown this postseason was a 37-yard Hail Mary at the end of the first half against the Packers.

"When I saw those red gloves go up, he is going to be up above everybody else and we would have a good chance of catching that one," Coughlin said. "I could appreciate it even if I was an offensive line coach."

Not bad for a basketball player who didn't even start for his football team at Independence High in Charlotte, N.C., until his senior season and was the fifth receiver drafted (29th overall) in 2009 behind Darrius Heyward-Bey, Michael Crabtree, Jeremy Maclin and Percy Harvin.

"Nicks can make any catch, run any route," 49ers cornerback Carlos Rogers said.

Nicks had a 32-yard touchdown catch during a 27-20 loss to the 49ers in November but only one other catch. He has been waiting for another shot at them.

"After that game, I remember we didn't hold our head down," Nicks said. "We were confident that we would see them again, and now this is our opportunity."

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

AUTOS

EMOTIONAL DAY FOR NEWCOMERS TO NASCAR HALL

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Family was the prevailing theme as NASCAR inducted its third, and most diverse, class into the Hall of Fame.

Cale Yarborough recalled the days he fed his family with 10-cent cans of black eyed peas — a lifetime ago compared to the special outfit his wife bought for Friday night's ceremony.

Darrell Waltrip's 24-minute speech was mostly funny, but he got emotional when thanking his daughter for flying 25 hours from the Philippines to join him.

Dale Inman, the first crew chief in the Hall, was inducted by his cousin, seven-time champion Richard Petty, and Leonard Wood inducted Glen, the other half of the Wood Brothers team. The other inductee was the late Richie Evans, a former modified champ.

Waltrip, now a Fox analyst, said of his days as a trash-talking driver known as "Jaws": "It wasn't that I talked that much. Those other guys didn't talk at all. I had to fill in the blanks."

SOCCER

Wambach tops with Dempsey

Abby Wambach was voted U.S. Soccer Federation female athlete of the year for the fifth time, tying Mia Hamm's record. Clint Dempsey was the top male athlete. Wambach, a former star at Florida, also topped the voting in 2003, '04, '07 and last year.

SHOOTING VICTIM BACK: Two years after he was shot in the head at close range in a Mexico City bar, Paraguayan striker Salvador Cabanas started his comeback with third-division club 12 de Octubre in his homeland. Cabanas, once a star at Mexico's Club America, started an exhibition and played for 15 minutes. A bullet fragment remains in the 31-year-old's skull because doctors decided it was too risky to remove.

OLYMPIC QUALIFYING: Qualifying for this summer's London games began late Friday for the U.S. women with a game in Vancouver against the Dominican Republic (see concacaf.com for results). The Americans play again Sunday against Guatemala and Tuesday again Mexico in the group stage.

ARENA LEAGUE

Storm loses QB to NFL's Packers

Nick Hill, who had been expected to vie for the starting quarterback job with the Arena League's Tampa Bay Storm, signed with the Green Bay Packers. He played in the Arena League for Orlando the past two seasons before signing with the Storm in the offseason.

ET CETERA

DOPING: British sprinter Bernice Wilson got a four-year ban after testing positive for two performance-enhancing drugs. … Brazilian swimmer Fabiola Molina was banned until April after testing positive for a stimulant.

YACHTING: Despite having a crew member fall overboard in one of the rounds, Barking Mad, skippered by Jim Richardson, won the Farr 40 class at the Key West sailing regatta. Richardson's team won three of the final five races to edge Enfant Terrible, skippered by Rossi Alberto.

WINTER SPORTS: Anja Schneiderheinze won a World Cup race in St. Moritz, Switzerland, leading a 1-2-3 finish by German women.

Times wires

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Friday, January 20, 2012

ST. PETERSBURG — Being the son of a former NFL player has always meant higher expectations and inevitable comparisons for former Maryland running back Davin Meggett.

As he prepared this week for today's East-West Shrine Game at Tropicana Field, it was hard not to see a little of former Giants running back Dave Meggett, who was short (5-foot-7) but a versatile weapon for the Bill Parcells-coached team that won a Super Bowl in Tampa in 1991, 10 months after his son was born.

Davin (pronounced Day-vin) is a bit taller at 5-8 and about 30 pounds thicker than his father at 218 pounds, and the spotlight of a showcase game like today's is a reminder of the challenge he faces in trying to make a name for himself.

"Everybody brings it up, but at the end of the day, it's all about me and my game. Nobody's going to draft me just for my name," said Meggett, who rushed for 896 yards in leading Maryland for the second year in a row. "They're going to evaluate me and evaluate my game play."

He's often compared to his father, who returned seven punts for touchdowns in a 10-year NFL career, but Meggett likes to pattern his game after a current NFL runner of similar stature — 5-8, 212-pound Ray Rice of the Ravens, who has topped 1,200 rushing yards and 60-plus catches in each of the last three seasons.

"I look to him as being someone I strive to be, somebody I can play with and play like," he said. "I very much look forward to doing what he does."

Last year, the challenge of being Dave Meggett's son became much more than higher expectations on the football field. The elder Meggett was sentenced to 30 years in prison in South Carolina after being convicted of criminal sexual conduct and burglary in a 2009 case that was the last in a series of arrests. Dave Meggett, now 45, isn't scheduled for parole until July 2034, when his son will be 44.

"He's a completely different man," said the younger Meggett, who still keeps in touch with his father regularly but rarely about football. "They have their opinions and expectations. I'm not him. We're two different people. Not the same. That's the truth."

He's making a similar journey to that of former Alabama running back Mark Ingram a year ago. Ingram was drafted by the Saints while his father, Mark, who played on the same Giants' Super Bowl team with Dave Meggett, was serving a 10-year prison term on counts of money laundering and bank fraud.

Ingram has shown that with enough perseverance, a father's fame, or infamy, can become a mere footnote to a son's success.

Davin Meggett has been training in Arizona in preparation for the draft, hopeful of an invitation to the NFL combine workouts and using this week as an opportunity to showcase what he can do against other draft prospects. His father was picked in the fifth round in 1989, and Meggett is projected as a mid- to late-rounds pick by draft pundits, something he can continue to improve today and in the next three months.

"It's all about making plays on the field," Meggett said.

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

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

SAN FRANCISCO — The 49ers and NFL have adopted increased security measures for Sunday's game against the Giants.

Several Saints fans complained about abusive fans during Saturday's division game.

In response, undercover police will wear Giants merchandise. As they enter the stadium, fans wearing Giants merchandise will be handed a card on how to contact police if they feel threatened. And security cameras will be added.

Tailgating after kickoff previously was banned at Candlestick Park after two shootings, a beating and fights broke out during an Aug. 20 preseason game against the Raiders.

NFL security director Jeff Miller said if the security cameras or police see abusive behavior, fans will be yanked from the stadium.

"We're not going to be warning people inside the stadium," he said. "They will be removed."

Another stadium issue: Sunday marks the first game at Candlestick Park that will be primarily played under lights since two blackouts delayed the Dec. 19 game against the Steelers. The city of San Francisco and Pacific Gas & Electric insisted there won't be a repeat. The company said it has spent about $1 million in upgrades — including laying 11/2 miles of new wire — to the 51-year-old stadium since then. It added it has conducted a series of tests and has experienced no problems.

49ers: The team has been game planning with the expectation of rain and windy conditions. Forecasters predict a 40 percent chance of rain with 12 mph winds. "You just picture that field all mudded up," offensive coordinator Greg Roman said. "I think the receivers probably have an advantage on the defensive backs because they know where they're going and the defensive backs have to react. So if the footing is poor, the advantage is for the offense. On the same token, though, running backs can't hit a hole or can't make a cut that they usually would, so advantage defense. I think it works both ways."

Giants: TE Jake Ballard underwent a "little procedure" on his right knee Thursday, the team announced but is expected to play. Ballard missed the last two regular-season games after injuring the posterior cruciate ligament against Washington on Dec. 18 but has played in both playoff games. Neither he nor coach Tom Coughlin disclosed details of the procedure, Coughlin saying only it was "not surgery." Ballard sat out practice Friday after the knee swelled. "I'm not concerned," he said. "If I was missing a leg, that's probably what it would take to keep me off the field."

Ravens: S Ed Reed, who landed awkwardly on his left ankle Sunday against the Texans, practiced fully after being limited on Wednesday and Thursday and is expected to start Sunday.

Patriots: QB Tom Brady no longer is on the injury report. He missed practice Wednesday with a sore left (nonthrowing) shoulder but worked the next two days. He is not among the 17 Patriots listed on the injury report. All as well as Brady are expected to play.

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

MIAMI — A month of wrenching emotion for Green Bay offensive coordinator Joe Philbin took another turn Friday when he landed the Dolphins coaching job. The team confirmed the hiring and scheduled a news conference for today.

The deal was sealed less than two weeks after Philbin's 21-year-old son drowned in an icy Wisconsin river and less than a week after the Packers, 15-1 in the regular season, were eliminated by the Giants.

The Dolphins' top choice, Jeff Fisher, chose to become Rams coach. Owner Stephen Ross and general manager Jeff Ireland then conducted second interviews with Philbin, Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy and Todd Bowles, the Dolphins' interim coach after Tony Sparano was fired in December.

"Joe has all the attributes that we were looking for when we started this process," Ross said in a statement the team released. "Jeff Ireland and I felt Joe was the right choice to bring the Dolphins back to the success we enjoyed in the past."

Philbin, 50, has never been a head coach.

"The Dolphins have a strong nucleus to build around," he said in the statement. "Working with everyone in the organization, I know together we will return the team to its winning tradition."

Rams to London: St. Louis agreed to give up regular-season home games in order to play in London each of the next three seasons. It will first face New England. The other opponents haven't been determined. The Rams are owned by Stan Kroenke, who also is the majority shareholder in the English soccer team Arsenal.

Roethlisberger settles: Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and a woman who accused him of raping her at a Lake Tahoe hotel-casino in 2008 settled her civil lawsuit. Details were not disclosed. The woman said she did not file a criminal complaint because she feared for her job as hostess at the hotel-casino.

Redskins: A judge set a trial date of April 16 for Eric Rivera, 21, in the fatal shooting of former safety Sean Taylor. Three others will be tried separately for the 2007 killing with their trials yet to be scheduled. A fifth man pleaded guilty to murder and burglary and is likely to testify against the others.

Steelers: Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, 57, retired. He joined the team as receivers coach in 2004 and was promoted in 2007. Also, quarterback Troy Smith, the 2006 Heisman winner, signed. He played for the Ravens from 2007-09 (making two starts) and the 49ers in 2010 (six). He spent this season in the United Football League.

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

CINCINNATI — Free-agent closer Ryan Madson and the Reds finalized their $8.5 million, one-year contract.

The deal, agreed to Jan. 11 and announced Friday, calls for $6 million this year, with $2 million is deferred until Nov. 1 and $2 million until Nov. 1, 2013.

It includes an $11 million mutual option for 2013 with a $2.5 million buyout.

Madson saved 32 games in 34 chances last year for NL East champion Philadelphia. He replaces Francisco Cordero as the Reds' closer.

Madson told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he's "very excited … to start a new chapter'' and that he thinks Cincinnati has "a real good chance to be in the playoffs."

DODGERS BANKRUPTCY: The Dodgers filed a proposed bankruptcy reorganization plan, a little more than a week after resolving a court fight with Fox Sports that threatened plans to sell the club.

The Dodgers said in documents filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Wilmington, Del., that the team's pending sale should satisfy all creditor claims in full, either through cash payments or assumption of the claims by new owners.

The Dodgers aim to complete a sale by April 30, coinciding with the deadline for owner Frank McCourt to pay $131 million to his ex-wife, Jamie, as part of their divorce settlement.

ATHLETICS: Foxsports.com reported that the team agreed to a one-year, $1.1 million with former Rays outfielder Jonny Gomes.

ASTROS: Free-agent catcher Chris Snyder has agreed to a one-year contract including a 2013 mutual option.

GIANTS: Right-handed relief pitcher Sergio Romo and the team settled on a $1,575,000, one-year contract to avoid an arbitration hearing.

NATIONALS: Outfielder Michael Morse agreed to a two-year deal for about $10.5 million, avoiding arbitration.

RANGERS: First baseman/outfielder Brad Hawpe signed a minor-league contract.

YANKEES: Outfielder Brett Gardner agreed to a $2.8 million, one-year deal, avoiding arbitration. The figure was midway between the $3.2 million Gardner had asked for and the $2.4 million the team offered.

TRADE: Cleveland acquired right-hander Kevin Slowey from Colorado for minor-league reliever Zach Putnam and cash. Indians general manager Chris Antonetti said the deal was not a direct reaction to pitcher Fausto Carmona's arrest in the Dominican Republic on false identity charges. Carmona, whose real name reportedly is Roberto Hernandez Heredia, was released on $13,000 bond and apologized to the team.

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Penn State could pay out millions of dollars in severance to a half-dozen assistants who weren't retained by new head coach Bill O'Brien.

Acting athletic director David Joyner said Friday that the status of the assistant coaches who aren't coming back from former coach Joe Paterno's staff hasn't been finalized. Some may retire, others could seek different jobs at Penn State or move on.

The severances for the full-time assistants were negotiated by Paterno when he signed a three-year extension in December 2008 to provide financial security for his staff if he left as head coach, the athletic department said in a statement.

The total amount budgeted in the 2008 extension severance for all nine assistants was $4.4 million, though the final figure will likely be lower given two assistants — defensive line coach Larry Johnson and linebackers coach Ron Vanderlinden — have been retained.

Texas Tech rejects deal: The school rejected an offer by former football coach Mike Leach to settle his lawsuit against it. Leach, now the coach at Washington State, informed Tech in a Nov. 28 letter that he'd "settle and move on" if he was paid what he was due for his last season. He didn't specify an amount. Tech attorney Dicky Grigg says the offer was unanimously rejected by regents because the university believes Leach has been paid what he was owed. Leach was fired amid claims that he mistreated receiver Adam James, son of current U.S. Senate candidate Craig James.

Tennessee: Defensive line coach John Palermo, a former Seminoles player, joined coach Derek Dooley's staff. Palermo spent the past two seasons at Middle Tennessee State.

Basketball

North Carolina: Junior guard Dexter Strickland will miss the rest of the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

N.C. State: Guard C.J. Williams (right shoulder) is doubtful for Sunday's game at Miami.

Friday, January 20, 2012

LA QUINTA, Calif. — When Mark Wilson got to 8 under through 11 holes on the Palmer Private course Friday, he seriously discussed golf's magic number with playing partner Harrison Frazar, who once shot 59 on another course in the same tournament.

"I don't know why the conversation went there … but I thought about it," Wilson said.

Wilson ended up posting the lowest score of his career, and that 62 wasn't even the best round of the day in the desert at the Humana Challenge. Bob Hope's name is no longer on this reformatted tournament, but its tradition of stunningly low scores is still strong.

Wilson tied Ben Crane and David Toms at 16-under 128 to lead after the second round of Friday, topping by three a leaderboard covered with bogey-free rounds and personal bests.

Ryan Moore tied the Nicklaus course record with 61, yet was five strokes back of the lead — and wasn't even among 23 bogey-free rounds Friday.

"Everything has been much improved, and we got a much better field because of it," said Crane, who had just 48 putts in his first two rounds. "This is a great place for players to start their year, because it's like playing indoors."

Crane shot 63 on the three-course tournament's Palmer Private course, and Toms had 65 on the Nicklaus Private course to match Wilson. Rookie Harris English (62 on Nicklaus Private) joined five players in fourth place at 13 under.

Moore tied Charlie Wi's 2009 record on the Nicklaus course despite consecutive bogeys on his second and third holes before an eagle on the fourth.

Toms' playing partner, Phil Mickelson, shot 69, staying well back of the leaders at 143 total while trying a new driver.

Dustin Johnson, the event's top-ranked player at No. 8, withdrew after nine holes. He had arthroscopic surgery on his right knee in November and hadn't walked 18 holes until Thursday.

Former President Bill Clinton, whose foundation is backing this event along with Humana, will play today in the pro-am alongside Greg Norman.

CHAMPIONS: Tom Lehman and Bruce Vaughan shot 7-under 65 to share the first-round lead in the 50-plus tour's opening Mitsubishi Electric Championship in Kaupulehu-Kona, Hawaii.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Friday, January 20, 2012

. Tonight

Lightning at Coyotes

When/where: 8; Jobing.com Arena, Glendale, Ariz.

TV/radio: Sun Sports; 970-AM

Key stats: The Lightning has won two straight and five of its past six games in Arizona. … Phoenix averages a league-low 7.9 penalty minutes. Its 141 times shorthanded are third fewest. … Tampa Bay's Dwayne Roloson is 14-9 with two ties, a 2.57 goals-against average and .912 save percentage against Phoenix. … Coyotes and former Lightning RW Radim Vrbata's 22 goals are second in the West. … Tampa Bay is 1-3 in the second of back-to-back games.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Friday, January 20, 2012

DALLAS — It probably goes without saying, but Coyotes G Mike Smith said it anyway.

"Obviously," he said of tonight's game with the Lightning, "I've had this date marked on my calendar for a while."

Smith in July signed a two-year, $4 million deal with Phoenix, ending his tumultuous four-year career with Tampa Bay.

That stretch included stellar play, several serious injuries, last season's demotion to AHL Norfolk and his return to form, especially during the playoffs, when he went 1-1 in three games — including a start in Game 5 of the East final against the Bruins — with a 1.00 goals-against average and .958 save percentage.

"I would have liked to stay in Tampa," Smith said Friday by phone from Glendale, Ariz. "It didn't work out. I'm fortunate I've had the chance to be the guy here in Phoenix."

Smith, 29, is 17-12-7 with two shutouts, a 2.41 goals-against average and .923 save percentage. He said goaltenders coach Sean Burke has been "a huge, huge mentor for me."

"I've matured a lot as a player. I've learned a lot about my game and what it takes to be more consistent," Smith said. "I don't know if that would have happened if I would have stayed in Tampa. I'm not saying it wouldn't have. I just think I've learned a lot about my game this season than I have in the past."

Smith also is settled with wife Brigitte and son Aksel, 6 months. Quite a difference from when he came to the Lightning in February 2008, with much hype, from the Stars in the Brad Richards deal.

Though Smith acknowledged he did not live up to expectations with Tampa Bay — 43-52-17 with six shutouts, a 2.85 goals-against average and .905 save percentage — he was a locker room presence, and C Nate Thompson called him "one of our favorite guys."

Smith has stayed close to several former teammates.

"It's tough when you have to leave somewhere you've grown such a part of, and those friendships will last forever," Smith said. "It's good in a way, but it's awfully difficult when you have to leave guys like that behind."

Not that Smith will have pity tonight.

"It's going to be an exciting time," he said. "I'm really looking forward to getting it going."

HALL MENDING: Adam Hall, Tampa Bay's faceoff leader, hit the ice after the morning skate. The forward was supposed to miss eight weeks after tearing a forearm muscle in a Jan. 5 fight with Ottawa's Mark Carkner, but Lightning coach Guy Boucher said the timetable is accelerated.

"He's done everything the doctors asked him to do," he said. "He's extremely professional, so it's going faster than we thought."

MORE MEDICAL MATTERS: F Tom Pyatt, who left Thursday's practice with a left leg injury, sat and is day to day. … RW Dana Tyrell (lower body) was in the lineup after missing one game. … F J.T. Wyman joined Hall on the ice, though his infected right pinkie still is bothersome. … RW Steve Downie took 12 stitches in the mouth after being hit by the butt end of a stick during the first.

ODDS AND ENDS: G Dwayne Roloson, without a win since Nov. 17 (0-6-1 in 11 games) will face Phoenix. … Pyatt, D Evan Oberg and D Marc-Andre Bergeron (back), not on the trip, were scratched.

Friday, January 20, 2012

MELBOURNE, Australia — For the first time in four decades, there will be no American man in the fourth round of the Australian Open singles draw after John Isner lost to 18th-seeded Feliciano Lopez in the third round Friday.

This is the first time no U.S. player reached the men's fourth round here since 1973, when no Americans traveled to the event.

The 6-foot-9 Isner, playing his second consecutive five-set match, fell 6-3, 6-7 (7-3), 6-4, 6-7 (7-0), 6-1 as Lopez earned a spot opposite No. 2 Rafael Nadal.

"It's very ugly, to be honest, to have no one in the round of 16," Isner said. "… I knew going in today I was the last one left and I wanted to keep on going, but just didn't happen."

Isner lapsed in the last set after dominating the fourth-set tiebreaker. "I just wasn't as sharp as I needed to be," he said. "It just kind of spiraled out of control there, and it just … I couldn't climb out of the hole I dug."

The last American man to win here was Andre Agassi in 2003. And no U.S. man has won a major since Andy Roddick at the 2003 U.S. Open.

Meanwhile, defending champion Novak Djokovic was nearly flawless in a 6-0, 6-1, 6-1 win against Nicolas Mahut in a third-round match early today. Every time Mahut tried to serve and volley, Djokovic would hit the return at his feet, cutting down the Frenchman's options.

In the third round on the women's side, Maria Sharapova beat Angelique Kerber 6-1, 6-2. The fourth-seeded Sharapova, who had been nursing a left ankle injury before this event, has dropped only five games in her first three matches.

She was pushed by Kerber during a long second set, with many games going to deuce.

"She reached the semifinals at the U.S. Open last year so she's been on the big stage before and I knew she could produce some really good tennis," Sharapova said.

Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova was on court for 38 minutes before advancing. The second-seeded Czech was leading 6-0, 1-0 when Maria Kirilenko retired with a left thigh injury.

Vania King, the only other American besides Serena Williams in the Round of 16, lost 6-3, 6-4 to former French Open champion Ana Ivanovic.

An early rematch of last year's women's final is already in place, with defending champion Kim Clijsters and Li Na both winning to set up a meeting in the fourth round. Clijsters advanced with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Daniela Hantuchova. Li didn't finish four games before Anabel Medina Garrigues quit with a sprained ankle.

Top-seeded Caroline Wozniacki will next play former No. 1 Jelena Jankovic, who beat American Christina McHale 6-2, 6-0.

Times wires
Friday, January 20, 2012

PITTSBURGH — Evgeni Malkin scored in his fifth straight game and added the lone shootout goal as the Penguins beat the Canadiens 5-4 on Friday.

Pittsburgh, which trailed 4-2 entering the third, has won five in a row since a six-game skid.

"I think everybody's feeling confident even though we're down a lot in the game," said Pittsburgh goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, who made his 20th consecutive start. "I think everybody kept staying positive throughout."

Game highlights: Jussi Jokinen scored a power-play and shorthanded goal to lead host Carolina past Washington 3-0. Washington entered 8-0-1 over its past nine against Carolina. … Patrick Kane ended a seven-game goal drought and set up Jonathan Toews' breakaway goal as host Chicago beat Florida 3-1.

Center returns: The Ducks called up center Mark Bell, who last played in the NHL on April 5, 2008. Bell scored 72 goals over four seasons with Chicago then was traded to San Jose before the 2006-07 season. But he pleaded no contest to drunk driving after seriously injuring another driver in a crash before the season. He then struggled, scoring 11 goals, and was traded to Toronto, where he played just 35 games before being waived. He has since played in Switzerland and in the minors.

Around the league: The Bellagio, a hotel-casino in Las Vegas, sued former Lightning owner Len Barrie in Canada for not repaying a debt. A Nevada court ordered Barrie, who owns businesses in Canada, to pay about $2.1 million, including the $1.5 million loan taken out in May 2008, interest and legal fees. But he has not done so. … Bruins coach Claude Julien and his staff will lead the All-Star team captained by their defenseman, Zdeno Chara. Ran­gers coach John Tortorella and Sharks coach Todd McLellan will lead the team captained by Senators wing Daniel Alfredsson.

First Period—1, Carolina, Jokinen 6 (E.Staal), 12:43 (sh). Penalties—Hendricks, Was, major (fighting), 4:53; Joslin, Car, major (fighting), 4:53; Faulk, Car (tripping), 11:22; Ruutu, Car (high-sticking), 15:14.

Second Period—2, Carolina, Jokinen 7 (Harrison, Brent), 19:42 (pp). Penalties—Knuble, Was (holding), 6:17; Wideman, Was (interference), 18:11.

Third Period—3, Carolina, Tlusty 10 (E.Staal, Gleason), 19:30 (pp). Penalties—Bra.Sutter, Car (hooking), 13:00; Washington bench, served by Eakin (too many men), 18:59. Shots on Goal—Washington 8-8-7—23. Carolina 10-15-8—33. Power-play opportunities—Washington 0 of 3; Carolina 2 of 3. Goalies—Washington, Vokoun 19-12-0 (33 shots-30 saves). Carolina, C.Ward 17-17-7 (23-23). A—17,507 (18,680).

First Period—1, Montreal, Eller 9 (Subban), :34. 2, Pittsburgh, Letang 4 (Dupuis, Jeffrey), 4:02. 3, Montreal, Cole 18 (Kostitsyn, Kaberle), 5:41. Penalties—Pacioretty, Mon, served by Blunden, minor-major (roughing, fighting), 2:57; Kunitz, Pit, major (fighting), 2:57; Sullivan, Pit (interference), 3:16; Neal, Pit (tripping), 6:22; Subban, Mon (roughing), 11:37; Orpik, Pit (hooking), 19:16.

Second Period—4, Montreal, Kostitsyn 11 (Kaberle, Desharnais), 1:09 (pp). 5, Pittsburgh, Jeffrey 1 (Michalek), 5:32 (sh). 6, Montreal, Pacioretty 16 (Cole, Budaj), 10:34. Penalties—Adams, Pit (holding), 5:14; Letang, Pit (slashing), 19:45; Adams, Pit, misconduct, 20:00.

Third Period—7, Pittsburgh, Jeffrey 2 (Kennedy), 3:32. 8, Pittsburgh, Malkin 25 (Neal, Letang), 17:17. Penalties—Cole, Mon (slashing), 6:55; Cole, Mon (interference), 12:42; Kunitz, Pit (boarding), 13:25.

Overtime—None. Penalties—None.

Shootout—Montreal 0 (Desharnais NG, Kostitsyn NG, Gomez NG), Pittsburgh 1 (Letang NG, Malkin G, Neal NG). Shots on Goal—Montreal 6-12-7-4—29. Pittsburgh 10-12-14-2—38. Power-play opportunities—Montreal 1 of 6; Pittsburgh 0 of 4. Goalies—Montreal, Budaj 2-4-1 (38 shots-34 saves). Pittsburgh, Fleury 24-12-2 (29-25). A—18,588 (18,387).

First Period—1, Chicago, J.Toews 27 (Kane, Stalberg), 17:40. 2, Chicago, Keith 3 (Hossa, Leddy), 19:43 (pp). Penalties—B.Seabrook, Chi (tripping), 6:45; Upshall, Fla (high-sticking), 7:37; Madden, Fla (tripping), 11:36; Ellerby, Fla (boarding), 18:16.

Second Period—3, Chicago, Kane 11, 13:05. Penalties—J.Toews, Chi (hooking), 3:53; Skille, Fla (hooking), 7:00.

Third Period—4, Florida, Garrison 13 (Kulikov, Kopecky), :43 (pp). Penalties—J.Toews, Chi (tripping), :39. Shots on Goal—Florida 5-10-4—19. Chicago 8-10-4—22. Power-play opportunities—Florida 1 of 3; Chicago 1 of 4. Goalies—Florida, Theodore 14-9-5 (22 shots-19 saves). Chicago, Emery 11-3-2 (19-18). A—21,555 (19,717).

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Friday, January 20, 2012

DALLAS — The Lightning's matchup with the Stars on Friday night had a couple of significant story lines.

Tampa Bay wanted desperately to build on Tuesday's dramatic victory over the Bruins and establish it can win games on the road.

Teddy Purcell made sure both happened with both Lightning goals in a 2-1 victory at the American Airlines Center that snapped a six-game road skid.

Purcell's backhander from the slot 3:36 into the third broke a tie the Stars forged 2:14 earlier when Tom Wandell poked a puck past a sprawling Mathieu Garon. That came after defenseman Pavel Kubina's offensive zone giveaway.

"It's huge," Garon said. "It's something to win a game at home against Boston. But if you can't win the game after that, it isn't worth it."

Marty St. Louis had two assists, and Garon made 27 saves despite sustaining what he called a "little stinger" during the second period when he was run over by teammate Steven Stamkos, who had been pushed by Dallas' Alex Goligoski.

Not that everything was rosy.

Tampa Bay (19-23-4) lost all of the momentum after a first period in which it had a 13-5 shot advantage (and could have led by more than 1-0 if not for stellar work by Dallas goalie Kari Lehtonen.) It was outshot 23-9 over the final two periods as Dallas ended with a 28-22 edge. Tampa Bay also went 0-for-3 on the power play, increasing its road futility to 2-for-42.

But a team with just 17 road points (7-16-3) will take whatever it can get.

The Lightning got what it needed from Purcell, who had not had a multiple-goal game in the regular season since a Feb. 23 hat trick against the Coyotes.

The right wing, who has 11 goals, had seven shots. Six came in the first, which were two more than his season high for a game. Purcell made it 1-0 off a perfect backhand pass from the right wing boards from St. Louis. Purcell, alone in front of the net, was patient and shoved the puck under Lehtonen with 1:12 left.

"We want to put a streak together. So it was a great job on the road," Purcell said. "Even when they scored their goal, it showed a lot of confidence. We didn't sit on our heels and kept pushing for that extra one."

As evidence of the Lightning's urgency, coach Guy Boucher gave his fourth line little ice time despite having a game tonight in Phoenix.

"By the third period, you could see our guys getting tired," Boucher said. "It's one of those tight games we're leading and we don't know what's going to happen tomorrow.

"Any time we can get points, I'm focusing on that. I didn't care about tomorrow."

Damian Cristodero can be reached at cristodero@tampabay.com. View his blog at lightning.tampabay.com and follow him on Twitter at @LightningTimes.

First Period—1, Tampa Bay, Purcell 10 (St. Louis, Gervais), 18:48. Penalties—Wandell, Dal (tripping), 4:55; Robidas, Dal (high-sticking), 12:35; Connolly, TB (tripping), 16:14.

Second Period—None. Penalties—Moore, TB (boarding), 5:55; Connolly, TB (tripping), 9:02; P.Labrie, TB, major (fighting), 17:42; Nystrom, Dal, major (fighting), 17:42.

Third Period—2, Dallas, Wandell 3 (Eriksson), 1:22. 3, Tampa Bay, Purcell 11 (St. Louis, Lecavalier), 3:36. Penalties—Malone, TB (cross-checking), 7:31; Fiddler, Dal (slashing), 8:53. Shots on Goal—Tampa Bay 13-5-4—22. Dallas 5-12-11—28. Power-play opportunities—Tampa Bay 0 of 3; Dallas 0 of 4. Goalies—Tampa Bay, Garon 13-13-2 (28 shots-27 saves). Dallas, Lehtonen 16-10-1 (22-20). A—14,836 (18,532).

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Morris Claiborne Cornerback, LSU

Claiborne's name is showing up more than any other. NFL Network's Steve Mariucci, NFL.com's Steve Wyche and Sports Illustrated are just three of the notables saying the Bucs should have Claiborne at the top of their wish list.

It makes sense for two significant reasons.

One, shutdown cornerbacks — and that's exactly what Claiborne is — are hard to come by.

Two, the Bucs are shaky at cornerback. Ronde Barber turns 37 on April 7 and might retire. Aqib Talib's legal and other off-field issues make him a question mark.

Wyche calls Claiborne "a stud player and a must-get.'' Sports Illustrated writes, "Claiborne is the top shutdown corner in the draft.'' Mariucci said the Bucs need to "upgrade."

Why is Claiborne's name showing up so often under Tampa Bay's pick? Because he seems like the likely choice.

Dre' Kirkpatrick Cornerback, Alabama

One Bleacher Report mock draft has the Bucs going after Kirkpatrick, a star on the stingy defense of national champion Alabama. The reason Bleacher Report has Kirkpatrick instead of LSU's Morris Claiborne is the website has Claiborne going No. 3 overall to the Vikings.

No question, the Bucs do need a corner, and it would be hard to pass on Kirkpatrick if Claiborne is already gone. Some circles, in fact, rate Kirkpatrick higher because he is 2 inches taller than Claiborne.

But Kirkpatrick was arrested last week for pot possession. Maybe some don't consider that the worst transgression in the world, and it is his first brush with the law. Then again, this is a team that could ultimately get burned by drafting Aqib Talib, who had similar red flags coming out of college.

Justin Blackmon Receiver, Oklahoma State

Just one year ago, the Bucs seemed set at receiver with Mike Williams and Arrelious Benn. But Williams had an inconsistent 2011, and Benn was bogged down by a knee injury. That's why a couple of mock drafts are suggesting the Bucs could try once again for a receiver.

In Oklahoma State's pass-happy offense this past season, Blackmon caught 121 passes with 18 touchdowns. He had a monster performance in the Fiesta Bowl with eight catches, 186 yards and three touchdowns.

The only issue is Blackmon could be gone by the time the Bucs pick. (St. Louis might be interested in giving quarterback Sam Bradford a new weapon.) If Blackmon is gone and the Bucs are still looking for a receiver, they could go after South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery or Notre Dame's Michael Floyd. But both would be considered a reach at No. 5.

Trent Richardson Running back, Alabama

So what does ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper think? In his first mock draft, he has the Bucs getting the Heisman Trophy finalist. Several analysts agree.

The Bucs had the third-worst rushing attack in the NFL this season at 91.1 yards per game. And clearly, Richardson is the best running back available. But is he worth the No. 5 pick? Several mock drafts don't have Richardson going in the top 15. If the Bucs don't take him at five, he could slip into the late teens.

This isn't like the old days when teams used high picks to take running backs. With more teams going to a passing game and running backs seemingly not as durable, teams appear hesitant to use high picks on running backs. Only one running back (Mark Ingram, No. 28, Saints) went in the first round last year. Only three went in the first round in 2010 and 2009. The last time a running back went in the top five was 2008, Darren McFadden to the Raiders at No. 4.

Another reason the Bucs might shy away from Richardson is if they believe LeGarrette Blount remains a good option. True, maybe Blount isn't the next Jim Brown, but the Bucs might believe they have more pressing needs.

Jonathan Martin Offensive tackle, Stanford

There might not be a more boring pick in the draft than an offensive lineman. But there might not be a more valuable pick in the draft than an offensive lineman.

They aren't the type of picks that show up on highlight films. But it's the play of the offensive linemen that allows quarterbacks, running backs and receivers to make plays that end up on highlight films.

Bucs quarterback Josh Freeman was under pressure all season, particularly in the second half. If corner Morris Claiborne is gone, they are scared off of Dre' Kirkpatrick and don't believe running back Trent Richardson is worth the fifth pick, the Bucs could go the safe route and take an offensive lineman.

Southern Cal tackle Matt Kalil is rated as the best linemen in the draft, but a lot of mock drafts have him going third to the Vikings. That leaves Iowa tackle Riley Reiff, Stanford guard David DeCastro and Martin, above left, as the best available linemen. The Bucs probably couldn't go wrong with any of them. Tackles are usually harder to find than guards, so it comes down to Martin and Reiff. Flip a coin.

tom jones' two cents

The first round of the NFL draft is April 26, but it's never too early to start looking at mock drafts. Predicting what the Bucs will do with the fifth overall pick is a little tricky. For starters, they need help just about everywhere. With the exception of quarterback, defensive line and, well, kickers, the Bucs are liable to take a player at any position. Their direction could hinge on who the coach is. If the Bucs hire a defensive-minded coach, he might prefer to concentrate on defense. If it's an offensive guru, he might want to look for an offensive player. So here's a look at the players going to the Bucs in some mock drafts.

Times wires
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Colts owner Jim Irsay has interviewed former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel for Indianapolis' coaching vacancy, a newspaper and TV station reported Saturday.

Tressel resigned in May after an NCAA scandal enveloped Ohio State. He was hired by Jim Caldwell, fired as Colts coach last week, in September to be a game-day consultant, primarily advising about replay reviews.

Irsay flew to Sarasota, where Tressel owns a home, on Friday morning, according to the Indianapolis Star and WBNS-TV in Columbus, Ohio.

The Colts went 2-14 this season, and soon after, Irsay fired team vice chairman Bill Polian and his son Chris, the general manager. Irsay previously said they will use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback.

Irsay tweeted Saturday that he expects to hire a coach by the end of this week: "The #1 pick debate will rage on, what a great year to have it. the HC search is wide ranging n thorough, decision by mid 2 late next week."

Indianapolis previously interviewed Titans defensive coordinator Jerry Gray, Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer and former Vikings coach Brad Childress.

Packers: Quarterbacks coach Tom Clements will become offensive coordinator if he doesn't get a coaching job, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. Clements, who has interviewed with the Bucs, would replace Joe Philbin in Green Bay. Philbin was hired as Dolphins coach.

Rams: Brian Schottenheimer will be the offensive coordinator under new coach Jeff Fisher, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported. He resigned as Jets offensive coordinator earlier this month.

By Seth Leto, Times Correspondent
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Schooled up: Massive schools of oversized breeder trout are in all the usual winter spots. Northerly winds push water off shallow flats, exposing vast areas of sea grass dotted with hidden potholes. As the tide drops out, these big schools will congregate in the deeper sandy holes. They are also on deeper grass flats adjacent to shallower flats.

Ecosystem: Sea grass provides food, habitat and nursery areas for countless adult and juvenile trout. An acre of sea grass will support thousands of predator fish, along with the fish and crustaceans they feed upon.

Tactics: At the bottom of the tide, look for trout to be grouped up in sandy potholes, along rocky sea floor, and all over deeper grass flats. As the tide rises, trout will move onto shallow flats to feed. When targeting these big trout in shallow water, make long, accurate casts and use a stealthy approach. A float that suspends your bait just above the top of the grass might be necessary when fishing shallow.

Hardware: Trout can be fished with a variety of live baits, artificials or a combination. Some live baits that work well for trout this time of year include shrimp, pinfish and finger mullet. When picking artificials, try ones that mimic those live baits such as a lightweight jig or a plug that resembles a mullet.

Seth Leto charters out of Tarpon Springs and can be reached at capt.seth@yahoo.com and (727) 385-0382.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, January 21, 2012

Big-bucks spending by the Rays is not typically a topic of conversation.

But it was last week as they committed more than $16.5 million to their five arbitration eligibles then further pushed their payroll into the mid $60 million range by signing free agent 1B Carlos Peña ($7.25 million).

The deals — and upcoming hearing with RHP Jeff Niemann — raised a few questions.

• Why pay CF B.J. Upton $7 million, compared to $4.35 million for LHP David Price?

Because they had to. Arbitration, as much as anything, is based on service time in the majors, specifically comparisons with other players in the same class.

Upton was a third-time eligible, having made $3 million in 2010 and $4.825 million in 2011. Comparables include Detroit's Delmon Young (who got $6.75 million) and the Los Angeles Dodgers' James Loney ($6.38 million). Upton's combo of speed and power is rare. And valuable, executive VP Andrew Friedman said: "We expect him to be a big part of our success this season."

Price was eligible for the first of what, as a Super Two qualifier, will be four years, and his $4.35 million was the largest one-year deal for a first-time eligible starter. But if he were in his final year, like Upton? Consider that Philadelphia's Cole Hamels, in his fourth year, just got $15 million.

• Why pay Peña rather than bring back Casey Kotchman for several million less?

Because they could. Both are excellent defenders with the ability to get on base. Peña hits for a lower average and strikes out more, but his power potential was the obvious difference: an average of 34 homers the past five seasons, compared to Kotchman's 10.

Implied in the decision is an expected regression by Kotchman, who hit .306 with a .378 on-base and .422 slugging percentage last season. Several sabermetric forecast models have it that way, such as Baseball Prospectus' PECOTA system, .254/.323/.370, and Bill James, .268/.344/.402.

• Why go to a hearing with Niemann over a difference of $425,000?

Because that's how it works. The Rays policy is to cut off negotiations when figures are filed, preventing settling at artificial midpoints. So the decision essentially was made before their $2.75 million offer and his $3.2 million request were shared.

POST PEÑA: With Peña aboard, the Rays are probably done shopping. There's some talk of adding a right-handed hitter to the bench, but it's not likely to be a big deal. That implies they'll stick with what they have at shortstop (Reid Brignac and Sean Rodriguez) and at catcher, where Jose Molina is the only experienced option. But a trade is still possible, as they have more starting pitchers than room, with either Niemann or Wade Davis (who makes $1.5 million) available. … The Rays don't lose a draft pick for signing Peña, though the Cubs get one, and will have to make room on the 40-man roster.

RAYS RUMBLINGS: Talks continue on completing a multiyear extension for manager Joe Maddon, who returns from his European vacation at the end of the month. … Deepening spring ties, principal owner Stuart Sternberg and partners have become part owners of Punta Gorda's Wyvern Hotel. … There's talk of adding full pregame shows for road telecasts as Fox Sports Florida/Sun Sports open a new studio, albeit in South Florida. … Sports Illustrated's Tom Verducci puts a "red flag" on RHP Jeremy Hellickson based on his increase of 371/3 innings from 2010-11. … Matt Joyce, Price and James Shields are the grand marshals for Saturday's Gasparilla parade in Tampa. … Ted Williams Hitters Hall of Fame inductees Tino Martinez and Cecil Fielder have confirmed for the Feb. 3 Dinner with David & Friends at the Trop, benefitting Price's Project 14 charity and the museum. … Trop press box supervisor Dukes Knutson is leaving to join his home-state Twins. … ESPN's David Schoenfield's ranking of the top rotations didn't include the Rays: D'backs, Yankees, Rangers, Angels and Phillies.

Marc Topkin can be reached at topkin@tampabay.com. Follow his coverage on Twitter at @TBTimes_Rays.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, January 21, 2012

NFC: Giants (11-7) at 49ers (14-3)

Time: 6:30 p.m. TV/radio: Ch. 13; 1010-AM

Coaches: Giants — Tom Coughlin (74-54 overall, 6-3 playoffs); 49ers — Jim Harbaugh (13-3 overall, 1-0 playoffs)

The 49ers win if …

The defensive front holds the Giants in check on first and second down. San Francisco will win, perhaps easily, if it is able to zero in on Giants QB Eli Manning on tough down-and-distance situations. The 49ers' pass rushers are too good to make things easier for the Giants on predictable passing situations.

The Giants win if …

They can effectively mix up their play calls, something that will require they successfully run the ball. The forecast calls for messy weather (rain and high winds) in the Bay Area today anyway, so this aspect is paramount. The Giants ran for 95 yards against the Packers last week; not a lot but more than enough to keep the defense honest. Ahmad Bradshaw averaged 5.2 yards on his 12 carries.

Matchup to watch

49ers DE Justin Smith, left, will see multiple blockers on the left side of the Giants offensive line. It will take multiple blockers to contain him after he had one of the three sacks of the Saints' Drew Brees last week.

Our take

This is a game featuring two teams built in opposite fashion. The Giants, with QB Eli Manning and his playmaking receivers, test the defensive-minded, efficient 49ers. Whichever team can play its style and tempo positions itself to win, and we think that team will be the Giants. The Saints were effective in playing an up-tempo game last week against the 49ers but lost because of their defense. The Giants defense is plain better.

Prediction: Giants 26, 49ers 24

AFC: Ravens (13-4) at Patriots (14-3)

Time: 3 p.m. TV/radio: Ch. 10; 1010-AM

Coaches: Ravens — John Harbaugh (44-20 overall, 5-3 playoffs); Patriots — Bill Belichick (139-53 overall, 15-5 playoffs)

The Ravens win if …

They can find a way to break out of their offensive mediocrity. The defense got three interceptions last week against the Texans. But the offense produced just 227 yards, which won't be enough to beat the Patriots. QB Joe Flacco, left, took some friendly fire from teammate Ed Reed last week. Here's Flacco's chance to have the last laugh.

The Patriots win if …

QB Tom Brady can make more plays than the Ravens defense. That means he has to avoid interceptions and get rid of the ball quicker than he'd like with the Baltimore pass rush certain to be closing in. Brady rarely plays poorly at this time of year with a 4-1 record in AFC title games.

Matchup to watch

Until someone proves they can stop Aaron Hernandez — or fellow TE Rob Gronkowski — the Patriots passing game is going to have a decisive edge. With Hernandez, left, consistently winning matchups, it gives Brady way too many easy completions. Ultimately, that moves the chains. It's up to the Ravens linebackers to stop him.

Our take

We think the New England defense, for all its weaknesses and advanced age (particularly on the line), can hold up against the Ravens offense. However, it's less likely even a defense as dominant as Baltimore's can shut down the Patriots' offensive machine. Their creative use of tight ends coupled with QB Tom Brady's accuracy make it a tough assignment for any defense.

Prediction: Patriots 27, Ravens 24

Stephen F. Holder, Times staff writer

Stat pack

passing yards

rushing yards

passing yards allowed

rushing yards allowed

giants

49ers

295.9

183.1

89.2

127.8

121.1

77.2

255.1

230.9

offensive rankings: Giants — 8th; 49ers — 26th

defensive rankings: Giants — 27th; 49ers — 4th

points scored: Giants — 24.6 (9th); 49ers — 23.8 (11th)

points allowed: Giants — 25.0 (25th); 49ers — 14.3 (2nd)

Stat pack

passing yards

rushing yards

passing yards allowed

rushing yards allowed

ravens

patriots

213.9

317.8

124.8

110.2

92.6

117.1

196.2

293.9

offensive rankings: Ravens — 15th; Patriots — 2nd

defensive rankings: Ravens — 3rd; Patriots — 31st

points scored: Ravens — 23.6 (12th); Patriots — 32.1 (3rd)

points allowed: Ravens — 16.6 (3rd); Patriots — 21.4 (15th)