Anthony Salveggi, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

ST. PETERSBURG — Paced by a balanced attack, Shorecrest Prep rolled over visiting Seffner Christian, 35-6.

By halftime, the Chargers (4-2) had amassed 225 yards en route to a 28-0 lead. QB Travis Dugan completed touchdowns to three receivers and Garrett Schulte scored on a 47-yard run.

"We needed to start fast and the guys did," Shorecrest coach Dave Moore said. "They played a pretty complete game in the first half."

Seffner Christian (3-3) struggled on offense in the first half as Chargers defensive back Aundre Fredericks intercepted passes on consecutive drives. In the second half the Crusaders nearly tripled their yardage and had a 10-play drive capped by Seth Lewis' 1-yard TD.

Schulte finished with 102 yards and two scores on 14 carries.

Anthony Salveggi, Times correspondent

By Gary Shelton, Times Sports Columnist
Saturday, October 13, 2012

TAMPA

The rule is as old as storming the castle. It is as simple as a stampede. It is as brutal as a punch in the mouth.

You stop the run.

After that, you stop the run.

A little later on, you stop the run.

Can anything be less complicated? For an NFL coach, for any NFL coach, it starts there. After all, if you let an opponent run you out of the stadium, it won't be long until everyone is going to try to run you out of town.

That leads us to the most improved, most satisfying part of this season's Bucs: the run defense. Finally, there are speed bumps and barriers and other hazards in the way of the opposing offense. Finally, the footprints seem to have been removed from the jerseys of the Bucs defense.

Of course, now comes the big test.

Now, Jamaal Charles and the Kansas City infantry come to town. Today, we get to see just how good this run defense is.

Through the first month of the season, the Bucs have been surprisingly good. They are fourth in the league, allowing only 73.8 yards per game and only 3.2 yards per rush.

Imagine that. For years now, the Tampa Bay defense has been a freeway for opposing running backs. The Bucs didn't penetrate, didn't punish, didn't tackle. Mostly, they played chase.

Over the past three years, the Bucs have finished 32nd, 28th and 32nd in the league against the run.

You know how teams preach holding opponents to fewer than 100 yards rushing in a game? Out of their past 52 games, the Bucs have done that only 11 times. They've given up 150 or more yards 27 times over that span. They've given up 200 or more 11 times. Individually, they've given up 24 100-yard games to rushers (and four others with 90-plus) over that span.

In other words, they've been featured in a lot of highlights by a lot of opposing runners.

No one is quite sure what got Jon Gruden fired after the 2008 season, but giving up 756 yards in the final four games didn't help. Granted, Gruden was an offensive coach, but it couldn't have helped the general feeling that the team needed to hit the reset button.

There were a lot of reasons that Raheem Morris was fired after last season. Among them was that opponents rushed for 270 and 251 in his last two games.

This year has been better. The Bucs lead the league in negative yardage plays with 41. Only one team, Washington, and one opposing runner, Alfred Morris, has had a 100-yard day.

What has happened here? The plan seems to be better, and the players seem better, and the progress seems better.

Start with the holdovers: Gerald McCoy and Mason Foster have never been better. And both rookies, linebacker Lavonte David and safety Mark Barron, have made an impact from Day 1. Consider the scheme, where the linebackers attack the line of scrimmage more and a safety is almost always in the box.

Granted, the Bucs pass defense hasn't been as impressive. Tampa Bay is still 32nd in the league there. As they say, however, one step at a time. Especially today against Kansas City. Who knows if the Chiefs will even try to pass? Charles ran the ball 33 times last week.

Who thinks he will run it fewer times today?

"I think (the improvement) is a collective effort of everything that happened in the offseason; from the coaching staff to the players to the overall mind-set of our team," McCoy said. "Our philosophy is, first of all, stop the run. If you stop the run, everything else will fall in line."

Can the Bucs keep it up?

Today's matchup against Charles will tell us a lot.

"I think he's great," McCoy said of Charles. "He's dynamic. He's a home run hitter. At any given moment, he will give you that play that will make everyone in the stadium stand up, even the home fans. One slip or one miss, and it could be a home run."

Like juggling dynamite?

"Yeah," McCoy said. "And it's sizzling. The whole game."

McCoy, of course, has been one of the huge factors in the Bucs' improvement. For two years, his career has been defined by injury and insults. Now he has been a dynamic player on a young defense.

"Man, it kind of makes me nervous how good this defense could be," McCoy said. "This could be that year-in, year-out defense that you never have to worry about.

"We can be scary good."

In the meantime, here comes Jamaal. Again and again.

Let's see if the Bucs can slow him down.

Listen to Gary Shelton weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 98.7-FM the Fan.

Andy Warrener, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

TAMPA — Robinson went three-and-out on its opening drive Friday then went on to pummel Gibbs (2-4, 2-3) 41-0 in front of a homecoming crowd at Jack Peters Stadium. Carlos Duclos scored first on a pitch that went 25 yards. On Gibbs' second possession, senior linebacker Demetrius Page intercepted a pass and took it 19 yards for a score. The defensive touchdown marked the 12th of the season for the Knights.

Knights senior Justin Madison had a big first half, making two tackles for losses, blocking a punt and recovering the block. He was matched up with Gibbs tackle Davarus Clark.

"I tried to use my speed and agility to get past him, I knew that would be my advantage," Madison said.

The Knights (6-0, 5-0) completed passes to seven receivers, including a touchdown to senior Kers Baysa in the fourth quarter.

"We don't have any superstars on this team, we just have a lot of great players," coach Mike DePue said.

Andy Warrener, Times correspondent

Mike McCollum, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

TAMPA — Chase Litton threw two touchdowns to lead Wharton in a 35-0 rout of Bruce B. Downs rival Freedom on Friday night.

The Wildcats got out to a fast start, scoring on four of their first five possessions. Five plays into the game, Litton connected with KJ Hopkins for a 30-yard touchdown pass. Then, after a botched Freedom punt, Litton quickly took advantage of the short field, connecting with Hopkins again on a 28-yard touchdown pass.

Hopkins also played running back, cornerback, punt returner and kicker. "Wherever coach and my teammates want me, that's where I'll play. It's fun," he said.

While the majority of Wharton's yards came through the air, the running game proved just as important with Jeff Kiel and Litton scoring in the first half. Kiel added another in the second half.

Mike McCollum, Times correspondent

Christian Sandler, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

PINELLAS PARK — Boca Ciega used a late interception return for touchdown by senior Denzal Dillard to pull off the 21-14 upset over Pinellas Park and earn the Pirates their first win Friday.

"I saw the back come out of the backfield," Dillard said. "I dropped to my depth, and just saw the ball coming, so I went for it. Players make plays, and that's what I did."

The Pirates (1-5) took control of the first half and were not fazed by a 31-yard touchdown from Patriots (4-2) running back Pierre Johnson. They stormed right back down the field to tie things up on an 18-yard touchdown run from junior Jaire Balloon.

Pinellas Park's turnover troubles began on the next possession. On a first-down play, the Patriots fumbled from the 22-yard line back to the end zone, where it was recovered by Boca Ciega to make the score 14-7. The Pirates took that lead into halftime.

The Patriots got a score from running back Tahrelle Mosley in the third quarter on a drive that lasted more than 10 minutes.

"That was a typical Pinellas Park second-half drive," Bogie coach Antez Brinson said. "I told my kids that this is a good football team, and they should expect them to adjust at the half. I expected them to try and grind it out in the third quarter. We were able to keep our composure, and not let that score demoralize us."

Mosley and Johnson led the way with 16 carries combined, but were just two of a handful of backs to get a carry for Pinellas Park. Despite 230 rushing yards, the Patriots were unable to reach the end zone again.

The fourth quarter was back and forth, featuring five punts and what turned out to be a crucial missed field goal from Pinellas Park. With less than two minutes to go, the Patriots started a drive from their own 37. On the first play, quarterback Taron Williams threw the interception to Dillard. The Patriots used a pair of timeouts to get the ball back twice after that, but both possessions ended in an interception.

"We were able to come out and do something that we all have believed we've been able to do the last six weeks," Brinson said, "I'm proud of my kids, I'm proud of my coaches, and this is hopefully something that will start a trend going into the last half of the season. We want to win every game that we play from this point on."

Nathan Cowan, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

SARASOTA — St. Petersburg Catholic started exactly how it wanted. Soon after, it allowed 28 straight points.

After the opening kickoff, the Barons drove 80 yards on 10 running plays, capped by Jack Sheehan's 1-yard touchdown run.

"That long first drive is what we're about," coach Steve Dudley said. "We chewed the clock up."

Mooney took two plays to answer, Blair Perry's 21-yard catch and Demondre Patterson's 51-yard run.

The Barons capped another long drive with a field goal. But soon after, a blocked punt led to a score that put the Cougars up 14-9.

"We have a lot of young guys, and we didn't handle adversity well," Dudley said. "They're really getting put into some difficult situations. (But) I'm really proud of our guys. They fought and never quit."

Nathan Cowan, Times correspondent

Phillip Haywood, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

LARGO — Indian Rocks Christian picked up another key Class 2A, District 5 win Friday, beating Canterbury 41-15. Golden Eagles freshman sensation Zeke McGaughy led the way with 162 yards on 15 carries and a touchdown.

In the first quarter, McGaughy dashed 74 yards to open scoring for the Golden Eagles (5-1, 5-1). Matt Kulaga, who completed 5-of-8 for 128 yards with a TD, connected with Robby Wendel for a 65-yard score, while Jake Froelicher added a 2-yard scoring run to give IRC a 34-0 halftime lead.

PJ Franklin rushed for a 112 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries for Canterbury (1-6, 1-5).

"We played well early and we got the ball to our playmakers. We needed a great start and we are taking our season one game at a time," Indian Rocks Christian coach Mark Buchanan said.

Phillip Haywood, Times correspondent

Times wires
Saturday, October 13, 2012

WASHINGTON — It doesn't matter how bad things look for the Cardinals. Trailing by a bunch, down to their last strike (twice), they simply stay calm and do what it takes to win.

Erasing an early six-run hole in Game 5 in their NL Division Series, the defending World Series champion Cardinals chipped away, then got a tying two-out, two-run single from Daniel Descalso and a go-ahead two-run single from Pete Kozma in the ninth inning to shock the Nationals 9-7 Friday night.

It was the largest comeback in a winner-take-all postseason game, according to STATS LLC. No other club in this sort of ultimate pressure situation had come back from more than four down.

The Cardinals are the second team to overcome a multiple-run deficit in the ninth inning of a winner-take-all game (1992 Braves), according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

The Cardinals face the Giants in the first game of the National League Championship Series on Sunday in San Francisco.

Early on, Bryce Harper tripled and then homered the next time up to give starting pitcher Gio Gonzalez and the Nationals a 6-0 lead.

A night after Jayson Werth capped a 13-pitch at-bat by hitting a winning home run in the ninth, the Nationals needed only seven pitches to put the defending World Series champions in early trouble.

Werth led off with a double against Adam Wainwright, Harper tripled and Ryan Zimmerman homered for a 3-0 lead in the first. Harper and Michael Morse chased Wainwright with home runs in the third.

The 19-year-old Harper became the first teenager to hit a triple in a postseason game and the second-youngest player to homer.

Down 6-0, the Cardinals trimmed the deficit with a run in the fourth and two more in the fifth.

Werth, who won Game 4 with a ninth-inning shot off reliever Lance Lynn, was greeted with a resounding ovation from the red-clad, towel-waving fans at Nationals Park. He heard the roars again when he lined a double to the leftfield corner.

Harper, 1-for-18 in the series entering the game, followed with a drive to left-center that hit only a foot or two from the top of the wall. Zimmerman then launched a 1-and-0 pitch to Row 1 in right-center, giving the Nationals a trio of runs before anyone on the home team had made an out.

That was more runs than Washington had scored in the previous two games combined, and it was the first time Wainwright had allowed more than one run in any of his 12 career postseason appearances.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2012

TAMPA — With the first four seasons of his career marked by angry outbursts and two arrests, Aqib Talib was given a clean slate by Greg Schiano after the coach was hired in January.

But Saturday, Talib committed his first offense under Schiano, drawing a four-game suspension from the NFL for a violation of its policy against performance-enhancing substances.

The suspension is effective immediately, taking away one of the team's top defenders and undermining the Bucs' efforts to play man-to-man coverage, a strength of Talib's. He is eligible to return Nov. 5, one day after the Bucs' game at Oakland.

Talib, 26, said he "made a mistake" by taking an Adderall pill without a prescription. The drug is considered a stimulant and banned without a prescription, according to league policy.

"Around the beginning of training camp, I made a mistake by taking an Adderall pill without a prescription," Talib said in a statement released by the team. "This is especially regrettable because, for the past several months, with Coach Schiano's help, I've worked very hard to improve myself — professionally and personally — as a player and a man.

"I am truly sorry to my teammates, coaches and Buccaneers fans, and I'm disappointed in myself. I will work diligently every day of this suspension to stay in top football shape and be ready to help this team in the second half of the season. I have chosen to be immediately accountable for the situation I put myself in, which is why I will not exercise my appeal rights and will begin serving the suspension immediately."

The NFL does not comment on the specifics of violations and cannot confirm Talib's version of events. Adderall, a drug often used to treat attention-deficit disorder, is said to aid athletes in their workouts and can contribute to quicker reaction times. It also is known to be addictive.

Schiano said in a statement, "I have spoken with Aqib, and he knows that he made a poor decision that let our team down. Certainly, other players will have the opportunity to step up while he serves this suspension."

One such player is E.J. Biggers, who returned in the Bucs' last game from a two-month absence because of a broken left foot. Biggers would be most likely to start at left cornerback in place of Talib. Under that scenario, veteran Brandon McDonald would probably be the nickel corner, entering the game when five defensive backs are needed.

To replace Talib on the roster, the Bucs promoted defensive end Markus White from the practice squad.

The timing of Talib's violation complicates the matter. He is in the final year of his five-year rookie contract, meaning the Bucs will soon have to make a long-term decision about him.

Talib has kept a low profile since a charge of aggravated assault in Texas was dropped in June. During the offseason, Schiano emphasized Talib's ability to comply with requests.

"The thing that I can tell you is since I arrived here Jan. 26, he's been awesome," Schiano said in June. "He's been here every day. He's been extremely focused, doing everything that we asked."

That came on the heels of Talib's last off-field issue. He was accused by Garland, Texas, police of shooting at his sister's live-in boyfriend during a domestic dispute in 2011. Talib also was suspended for a game in 2010 after agreeing to a deal with prosecutors after his arrest for battery, related to his punching of a cabdriver in St. Petersburg.

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2012

Fab five

1. Texans 2. Falcons

3. 49ers 4. Ravens

5. Patriots

Best bet

Redskins (2-3) over Vikings (4-1)

The Vikings have been one of the league's top surprises. But the Redskins' touted rookie quarterback, Robert Griffin III will work some fourth-quarter magic.

Broken Bills

Considering how much the Bills invested in their defense during the offseason, including a guaranteed $50 million to end Mario Williams, their performance has been one of the league's biggest disappointments.

Buffalo, struggling at 2-3, became the first team since 1950 to allow at least 550 yards in consecutive games and is the first to give up more than 300 rushing yards and 300 passing yards in the same game, last week against San Francisco.

"Coming into this (49ers) game, I wouldn't have imagined this in a million years," Bills linebacker Nick Barnett said. "The way they were running the ball on us, I've never been a part of two weeks like that ever."

Said linebacker Bryan Scott: "I'm sick of it because we're better than this. This is terrible."

Boast — and post — of the week

"Trust me when I say that I'll be back better than ever next year. But in the meantime, I want to thank my teammates, coaches, and you fans for all the amazing love and support. Oh, and we are still winning this year's Super Bowl."

Texans linebacker Brian Cushing, who sustained a season-ending ACL tear Monday

Times wires contributed to this report. Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@tampabay.com.

Pink platform

There likely will be as much pink as pewter today at Raymond James Stadium as the Bucs join the NFL's efforts in supporting National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Ribbons will be painted onto the field and footballs with players donning pink cleats, gloves and towels. There will even be pink flags hanging from the pirate ship.

For Bucs linebacker Adam Hayward, the pink's purpose hits home. His mother, Pauline, died of breast cancer in August 2004.

"There's only so much you can do. Just bring the awareness. That's half the battle right there," Hayward said. "People just don't even know that a simple screening, $100 screening, can help save somebody's life. Just being able to help raise money for that and bring attention to people, it means a lot to me."

Irony of the week

In the head-scratching and stomach-turning headline of the week, Eagles QB Michael Vick owns a dog. The same Vick who served 19 months in prison for his role in a dog-fighting ring — one that included drowning, hanging and electrocuting dogs — is now charged with one's care. Vick is legally allowed to own a dog and says it is for his kids. But while there's no problem with Vick getting a second chance at life — with his family and in the NFL — Foxsports.com's Greg Couch writes the thought of him owning a dog is "scary … and sickening."

Comparison of the week

The Panthers' "Superman," quarterback Cam Newton, has taken a super fall. Just one year ago, Newton was one of the league's shining stars, winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year and a Pro Bowl trip.

But Newton's struggles have been magnified by Carolina's 1-4 start. And he has been criticized by teammates and media for sulking. SI.com's Don Banks made a potentially ominous comparison, saying Newton's regression is starting to resemble Vince Young's. No one is saying Newton will turn out like Young, who went from Heisman Trophy runnerup, national champion and NFL star rookie to unemployed and reportedly broke.

But as Banks writes, "Young's once-promising career in Tennessee illustrates nothing is guaranteed. At least not for long."

Rarely do defending Super Bowl champions fly under the radar as much as the Giants have this season. • It's not like they're in a large media market, right? • But after getting overshadowed by the nonstop coverage of Tim Tebow mania and the Jets during training camp, the Giants didn't get off to a dominating start (just 3-2). • New York has nowhere to hide today as it plays in one of the season's most anticipated showdowns: at the 49ers in a rematch of last season's NFC title game. • Giants coach Tom Coughlin has done his best to keep their underdog status, saying last week, "Nobody gives us a chance to win." • But as Foxsports.com's Alex Marvez writes, "Nor should they, quite honestly." • Besides the fact the 49ers are still bitter from the 20-17 overtime loss that kept them from the Super Bowl, they're playing as well as any team right now. San Francisco (4-1) crushed its past two opponents, the Jets and Bills, by a combined 79-3. • "The fact of the matter is they're a good team and they're playing well," Giants defensive end Justin Tuck said. "I think if I was a betting man and didn't have anything to do with this team, I would probably pick them as favorites, too."

By Gary Shelton, Times Sports Columnist
Saturday, October 13, 2012

TAMPA

Another headline. Another mess. Another suggestion that a wayward cornerback still doesn't get it.

Tell me: Isn't it time for outrage yet?

Isn't it time for the Bucs to tell Talib to leave?

Most of us passed the point of putting up with Aqib Talib a few second chances ago. Maybe it was when he hit a teammate with a helmet. Or when he punched out a cab driver. Or when he cursed a referee long and loud after a loss. Or when he was arrested on charges of shooting at his sister's boyfriend.

Now here comes trouble again.

Anyone surprised?

The NFL suspended Talib on Saturday for the next four games for using a performance-enhancing substance, and all you could say was the Bucs had it coming. They have been embarrassed by Talib in one manner or another throughout his career, and they have apologized for him and enabled him and crossed their fingers. Every time, Talib has betrayed their trust.

The Bucs should have known better. With Talib, there is always going to be another headache, another headline, another horror show. Sooner or later, he was going to let down his teammates once again.

If the Bucs really care about character, Talib would have been gone long ago. If they really want this community to love this team, they would have stripped the colors from the 26-year-old long ago and pointed him toward the airport. This is their shame as much as it is Talib's.

At this point, the team can't even act indignantly if it releases him. It can merely shrug and say "We know, we know. It's about time."

This is what happens when a team stands by its trouble. The trouble comes back to visit it. And guess what? If the Bucs talk themselves into bringing Talib back, he'll be back in the headlines again. They're his second home.

This time it will be interesting to see the way new coach Greg Schiano reacts. It is one thing to be no-nonsense when you turn loose Kellen Winslow Jr. and Tanard Jackson and Brian Price. Those guys couldn't play. None of them are on an active roster today; Jackson is serving a drug suspension.

Talib? As much has he has struggled this year — he is an overrated cornerback on a team that is last in pass defense — he still has starter's talent. When you consider how much man coverage the Bucs play, Talib is a better bet than the guys behind him. No, the 2008 first-round draft pick isn't the shutdown corner the Bucs pretend he is, but his loss will be felt.

At this point, no one should care. If a football franchise is going to stand for something, it cannot stand for the relentless failings of a controversial cornerback.

For the Bucs, it is time to raise the standards.

It is time for trouble to leave.

Listen to Gary Shelton weekdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 98.7-FM the Fan.

By Rob Gorta, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

What's hot: The beaches are covered with baitfish such as threadfin herring and scaled sardines. Spanish mackerel, kingfish, cobia, bonito, sharks and jack crevalles are the prominent species on the prowl. Large redfish schools continue to invade shallow-water flats in search of crustaceans. Pinellas Point has several schools in the area. Seatrout, one of the easiest species to catch, are starting to show up everywhere on the grass flats with the cooler water.

Tactics: Slow-trolling threadfin herring off the beaches will entice all of the pelagic species. I start by locating schools of baitfish less than a mile from the beach and deploy baits on a light drag setting using light wire to prevent cutoffs from toothy fish. Stone crab season is also here, so keep an eye out for tripletail hanging out right next to the crab pots.

Tips: Redfish have been tailing on the low tides. I use a small piece of cut bait when targeting tailing reds; it lands softly and is one of the best presentations in shallow water. The east winds have made ideal conditions for drifting the flats for trout. A popping cork with a scaled sardine is one of my favorite presentations. This combination is deadly for trout and will produce lots of fish when drifting over grass flats.

Rob Gorta charters out of St. Petersburg. Call him at (727) 647-7606 or visit captainrobgorta.com.

Times wires
Saturday, October 13, 2012

MIAMI — Giovani Bernard begged about 20 tickets away from North Carolina teammates, giving them to friends and family to see his homecoming. And he rewarded them for their benevolence.

The graduate of Fort Lauderdale St. Thomas Aquinas ran for 177 yards and two first-half touchdowns to help beat Miami 18-14 on Saturday.

"Just being able to play out there with my brothers and out there in my hometown, it's a good feeling," Bernard said. "But the main thing is getting the win."

Bernard scored from 10 yards during the first quarter.

"He's a complete player," UNC coach Larry Fedora said. "It doesn't matter if it's pass blocking, catching the football, running the football, returning kicks. He'll do whatever he can to keep the team in the game."

Miami lost not only the game, but starting quarterback Stephen Morris. The junior, who set an ACC record with 566 passing yards against N.C. State two weeks ago, sustained a left ankle injury midway through the fourth quarter. Morris left the field in a walking boot.

Coach Al Golden said X-rays would be scheduled. And the school said it expects to update his status today.

"He seems to be doing good," said Ryan Williams, who replaced Morris. "I don't know when he'll be back."

Williams led the final drive, which began with 1:47 left at the Hurricanes 17 but ended on downs at the Tar Heels 26.

"It's very tough," said running back Mike James, his head tilted back against a wall. "I mean, this is a tough game to lose."

Tied at 7, a three-play span late in the first half keyed UNC.

On fourth and 6 from the Miami 33, Bryn Renner barely eluded the rush and found Bernard. He made a lunging, shoestring catch and turned it into a 16-yard gain, prompting Miami defensive coordinator Mark D'Onofrio to punch the air.

Bernard scored from 17 yards. Then the Tar Heels snapped the ball so quickly to punter/holder Tommy Hibbard, lined up in the shotgun, the Hurricanes had only 10 men on the field. That helped him hit Eric Ebron for two points and a 15-7 lead.

"That's the difference," Fedora said of the two-point conversion.

Morris' 5-yard run with 5:06 left in the third capped a 12-play, 94-yard drive and got Miami within 15-13. The Hurricanes appeared ready to go for two points. But they were called for delay of game and settled for the extra point.

Said Golden: "Obviously, we left some plays on the field."

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2012

With potentially five open spots in the lineup and an abundance of starting pitching, the Rays certainly have a lot to do this winter. Creativity, as usual, will be part of the plan. But at some point money matters, too.

Since the Rays don't share, or even establish, a set payroll number — maintaining it's flexible with an impact on future seasons — it's always a bit of a guess how much they'll have to work with.

But it seems unlikely it would be more than 2012 — when they admittedly opened at a higher- than-planned $64 million, had to make several additions due to injuries and were last in the majors in attendance and didn't get any playoff revenue.

After increasing from $44 million in 2008 to $63 million in 2009 and $73 million in 2010, they scaled back to $42 million in 2011 then back up in 2012.

What helps? Shedding free agents Carlos Peña, B.J. Upton, Luke Scott and Kyle Farnsworth chops off more than $22.5 million.

What hurts? With built-in and projected arbitration increases, it will cost them around $50 million to keep the rest of the core, and that's for about 17 players.

So that wouldn't seem to leave room for many impactful additions without any meaningful subtractions.

Four players are already signed for $15.3 million: Evan Longoria ($6 million, up from $4.5 million), Ben Zobrist ($5.5 million, up from $4.5 million), Wade Davis ($2.8 million, up from $1.5 million) and Matt Moore ($1 million, same).

Two of the four options are automatic to be picked up, James Shields ($10.25 million) and Fernando Rodney ($2.5 million), and another likely, Jose Molina ($1.8 million), so that's another $14.55 million. (Scott, at $6 million, not so much.)

Six of the eight arbitration-eligible players would seem likely to be retained — David Price, Jeff Niemann, Burke Badenhop, Matt Joyce, Sam Fuld and Elliot Johnson — though that's another $18 million or so, and maybe $2 million more if Price wins the AL Cy Young Award. That's assuming in-season acquisitions Ryan Roberts and Ben Francisco are non-tenders.

Add in the pre-arbitration players, such as Desmond Jennings, Jeremy Hellickson, Jake McGee and Reid Brignac, at just above the $490,000 MLB minimum.

That gets the Rays to around $50 million, with another eight spots to fill. And there are a few of their own free agents they'd like to bring back, though all are going to want more than they made this season: Joel Peralta ($2.175 million), Jeff Keppinger ($1.525 million) and J.P. Howell ($1.325 million).

A most interesting offseason is ahead, indeed.

HOME BOY: How badly does Peralta want to return? "I wish I wasn't a free agent. Definitely I want to be back. I'm wishing, I'm hoping, I'm praying that I can come back here. This feels like home," he said.

Though Peralta, who will be 37 in March, would prefer a two-year deal, he is open to discussion: "I want what I deserve — I don't want more, I don't want less. So it's up to them. I'm cheap. They can afford me."

RAYS RUMBLINGS: The full coaching staff — all of whom are under contract for 2013 anyway — is set to return, though there is still the possibility of bench coach Dave Martinez getting a managerial job. The Rockies, now run by former Rays/Expos exec Bill Geivett, could be an option. … Zobrist, on Upton: "If he does leave, it's going to be sad for me." … National scouting cross-checker Tim Huff left to join the Angels as a special assistant to the GM. … Among Rays prospects playing for the Phoenix Desert Dogs in the Arizona Fall League are INFs Hak-Ju Lee, Tim Beckham and 2012 top pick Richie Shaffer. … INF Brooks Conrad became a minor-league free agent.

By Matt Baker, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2012

North Suncoast Super 7

1. Pasco (6-0): Another blowout win and a fifth consecutive shutout, 63-0 over Hudson, for the state's top-ranked defense. This week brings the toughest test yet: Fivay.

2. Springstead (7-0): Even on rough offensive night like Friday, the Eagles find a way to win. Can they do it against Hernando?

3. Hernando (4-3): The Leopards have allowed only 23 total points in four district games, and the offense could be starting to click.

4. Sunlake (4-2): The Seahawks aren't out of the playoff race yet, but they need help after two district losses by a combined 10 points.

5. Mitchell (6-1): If the Mustangs can survive a brutal close to the season with games against Nature Coast, Springstead and Hernando, they will be playoff-bound.

6. Fivay (5-1): With the success of Davion Sutton, it's easy to overlook Bryan Poinsette, who had a 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against Gulf.

7. Nature Coast (4-3): Another game, another big night from RB Matt Breida and a strong defense. Nature Coast will battle Mitchell tough this week.

Dual-threat performances

Hernando ATH Tyrail Hawkins scored both of his team's touchdowns and had two late pass breakups in a 14-10 victory over Sunlake. Teammate Ra'shaad Hart had his second consecutive 100-yard rushing game and sealed the win with an interception in the end zone.

1,000-yard club

Nature Coast RB Matt Breida became the North Suncoast's first 1,000-yard rusher this season after gaining 158 yards with two touchdowns against Land O'Lakes. He has 1,044 for the season.

Offensive MVPs

Anclote QB John Forgione: He had three touchdown passes in a 21-7 win over Zephyrhills.

Springstead QB Tyler Mahla: He rushed for a key first down after scooping up a blocked field goal. He added a TD pass and a TD run in a 21-7 win over River Ridge.

Defensive MVP

Nature Coast DE Rohan Blackwood: He had four sacks in a 28-17 win over Land O'Lakes.

Five thoughts looking ahead

1. Pasco gets a test. Joey Ivie and the Pirates haven't had one this season. Pasco dominated Fivay last year in a matchup that decided the district championship. Expect similar results with similar stakes this time.

2. Can Anclote keep it up? The Sharks shocked Zephyrhills 21-7 and put themselves in the playoff picture. Now they need to avoid letdowns the rest of the way and get help to battle for the postseason.

3. Defense rules in Hernando County. Hernando and Sunlake both have strong, disciplined defenses. Expect the battle for the county and the top spot in Class 6A, District 6 to be low scoring.

4. Who takes the battle for Land O'Lakes? Suburban supremacy is on the line when the Gators host Sunlake. Expect Josh Zifer and the Seahawks to rebound with a second consecutive win over their rival.

5. Run, run, run. That's the story for the Mitchell-Nature Coast battle that has big playoff implications. Can Matt Breida break the Mustangs defense, or will Mitchell's deep backfield run away with a win.

By Steve Lee, Times Correspondent
Saturday, October 13, 2012

NEW TAMPA — The second day of the Sunshine Athletic Conference meet was one for records in more ways than one. After Friday's diving competition in New Port Richey, Saturday's swimming events at the New Tampa YMCA featured six records.

Then there was the extension of Land O'Lakes' record-setting dominance. The Gators won their 10th straight boys and fourth consecutive girls titles. Land O' Lakes coaches Barbara Hayes and Robin Hilgenberg, however, were proudest of the school's 12th overall title in 15 seasons.

"It's always great," said Hayes, who coaches the boys. "The difference is we had to build for the first couple of years. Then we had incredible depth."

Now, Hayes attributes the team's success to balance and depth.

Added girls coach Hilgenberg, "Winning is always exciting and you want to keep that going for the next 10 years for the boys."

The Wiregrass Ranch girls, who led all teams with five victories, set four of the meet records that fell. Mitchell boys star Devin McCaffrey also set two records.

Athena Cimino set SAC marks in the 100-yard freestyle (54.07 seconds) and 200 free (1 minute, 58.01 seconds) before joining teammates Chelsea Hernandez, Maddie Conway and Mallory Gant for relay records in the 200 free (1:44.64) and 400 free (3:51.51).

"I feel like we wanted it more; wanting to do good for each other," Gant said.

Added Cimino, "In any swim, your teammates get you through."

Second-year Wiregrass Ranch coach Tanner Schmitz, who organized the North Suncoast Relays that took place at the same pool in September, concurred with Cimino. "None of them would have these records without the others," he said. "I'm happy. My girls swam great. Let Land O'Lakes take the title, we'll take the records and move on to districts."

As for McCaffrey, he broke two individual records. A two-time state champion in the 100 breaststroke, he swam that event in a 59.01 after setting a mark in the 100 butterfly at 51.28.

Saturday, October 13, 2012

Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez, out since Week 2 with a high ankle sprain, will return in a limited role today against the Seahawks, the Boston Herald reported Saturday.

New England coach Bill Belichick was vague about the condition of the former Gator all last week and was unavailable for comment Saturday. But Friday, Hernandez traveled with the team to Seattle.

The Herald reported he is expected to participate in 15-20 plays but the Patriots will see how he feels before the game to make a final determination.

Broncos: Left tackle Ryan Clady (hamstring) and receiver Demaryius Thomas (hip) fully participated in practice and are expected to play Monday.

Giants: Receiver Hakeem Nicks, who has missed the past three games with foot and knee injuries, flew with the team to San Francisco and likely will play today.

Packers: Tight end Jermichael Finley, bothered by a shoulder injury, said he expects to play tonight against the Texans. But receiver Greg Jennings will miss his third game because of a sore groin. Said coach Mike McCarthy: "We're going to go probably another six days before we even attempt to test him."

Steelers: Two injuries sustained against the Titans on Thursday are not as serious as feared, according to media reports. Ex-Gator center Maurkice Pouncey should not miss any time with a knee injury, ProFootballTalk.com reported. And running back Rashad Mendenhall's Achilles injury is minor, the NFL Network reported. His status for next week hasn't been determined. It was his second game back from a torn ACL.

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, October 13, 2012

Alex Karras as Mongo Blazing Saddles

Karras is in only a handful of scenes in Mel Brooks' 1974 western comedy, but they are among the most memorable in the movie. Karras is at the center of probably the most iconic scene: He parks his mule in front of a bar and is told by a man on a horse, "Hey, you can't park that thing there.'' Mongo then hauls back with a punch and knocks out the horse. Hilarious. Karras barely speaks in the movie, but he delivers the classic line: "Mongo only pawn in game of life.''

Fred Williamson as Frost From Dusk Till Dawn

An NFL star in the 1960s, Williamson made a successful transition into acting, usually playing a tough guy in "blaxploitation'' films. But he was never cooler, tougher and funnier than in Robert Rodriguez's 1996 campy vampire movie From Dusk Till Dawn, which also starred George Clooney, Harvey Keitel and the writer of the screenplay, Quentin Tarantino. Williamson is on camera for about only 20 minutes, but he wipes out dozens of vamps while chewing on a cigar. He also has one of the better lines, challenging a vampire by saying, "Yo, monkey man! Anything you got to say to them, say to me first.'' And if you've seen the movie, you know that those long fingers crawling over his shoulders make for the creepiest scene.

Bob Uecker as Harry Doyle Major League

Dubbed "Mr. Baseball" by Johnny Carson, Uecker wasn't much of a player (a .200 lifetime average over six seasons), but he became a star as an announcer, for his Miller Lite commercials and for his funny appearances on the pre-Leno Tonight Show. Uecker starred in the sitcom Mr. Belvedere, but his best acting performance was as the boozing, sarcastic Cleveland Indians announcer in the movie Major League. As Doyle, Uecker uttered one of the most famous lines in sports-movie history: "Juuuuust a bit outside.''

Rosie Greer as Jack Moss The Thing With Two Heads

A member of the Rams' famed Fearsome Foursome along with another future actor (Merlin Olsen), Greer is in one of the silliest low-budget sci-fi movies ever made. It is so outlandish that it's good, in a cult way. Check out the premise: Ray Milland plays a dying, rich, racist doctor who has his head transplanted onto a healthy body. That body turns out to be that of a black death row inmate played by Greer. The two heads then share the body and get in adventures. Ain't that awesome?

Pele as Cpl. Luis Fernandez Victory

I have a soft spot for this soccer movie in which a bunch of Allies in a World War II POW camp beat a team of Germans, then escape. Sure, it's corny, but it's fun. The great Pele has the best line of the movie: He grabs chalk from the coach (played by Michael Caine) during a strategy session and walks up to the board, draws a bunch of zig-zag lines and says, "After giving me ball here, I do this, this, this, this, this, this, this … goal. Easy.''

O.J. Simpson as Officer Nordberg Naked Gun

Before he became infamous for other reasons, Simpson, one of football's greatest running backs, had a successful post-NFL career as a pitchman (Hertz) and actor in TV and movies, including Roots, The Towering Inferno and the better-than-you-think conspiracy movie Capricorn One, where he played an astronaut alongside James Brolin. But when you think of the "Juice" and movies, you think of the human crash-test dummy otherwise known as Nord­berg in The Naked Gun series. Simpson had few lines but plenty of pratfalls in the crime comedy movies.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar as Roger Murdock Airplane!

The NBA's all-time leading scorer has been in plenty of movies and TV shows, often playing himself. He had an awesome fight scene against Bruce Lee in the 1972 film Game of Death, but his best performance is as airplane pilot Roger Murdock (Over … Roger … huh?) in the comedy Airplane! The gag is he is playing himself, and he reveals so when a kid tells him his dad says Abdul-Jabbar doesn't play hard until the playoffs. Abdul-Jabbar grabs the kid and says, "Tell your old man to drag Walton and Lanier up and down the court for 48 minutes!''

Jim Brown as Robert Jefferson The Dirty Dozen

It was during the making of The Dirty Dozen that arguably the greatest football player of all time announced his retirement from the NFL after nine years. Brown was in more than three dozen movies, including 100 Rifles with Raquel Welch. That was one of the first movies with an interracial love scene. But our favorite movie with Brown is The Dirty Dozen, which also stars Lee Marvin, Ernest Borgnine and Charles Bronson. Taking full advantage of Brown's football skills, the best scene features Brown, a former running back, dodging bullets and grenades like he was avoiding linebackers.

Ray Allen as Jesus Shuttlesworth He Got Game

Director Spike Lee considered several NBA stars to play the role of high school basketball phenom Jesus Shuttlesworth in this 1998 film, including Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson and Tracy McGrady. But the part went to Allen, who was widely praised by critics even though he had never acted.

Terry Bradshaw as Al Failure to Launch

There were plenty of choices for the final spot on this list, such as Bubba Smith as Hightower in the Police Academy movies and Carl Weathers as Apollo Creed in Rocky, but I'm going with Bradshaw. The former NFL QB played the country bumpkin role in movies including Cannonball Run and Hooper, but he did an admirable job in the 2006 comedy Failure to Launch. The movie was forgettable, but Bradshaw managed to hold his own among A-list actors Kathy Bates, Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew McConaughey. Heck, Bradshaw even did a nude scene!

tom jones' two cents

Last week the NFL family lost one of the great characters of all time, Alex Karras. A star defensive lineman with the Lions in the 1960s, Karras had an impressive second career as an actor, starring on the TV show Webster with Emmanuel Lewis and in movies such as Porky's, Against All Odds and Victor/Victoria. • And no, I didn't forget his most famous role. • To mark Karras' passing, we look at some of our favorite movie characters played by athletes or former athletes. We start with our favorite of all time, played by none other than Karras.

By Bob Putnam and Rodney Page, Times Staff Writers
Saturday, October 13, 2012

Super 7

1. Largo (6-0, 2-0): Packers get the week off before getting into the bulk of their Class 6A, District 7 schedule.

2. Countryside (6-1, 2-0): In the past two meetings against Wiregrass Ranch, the Cougars have won by a combined score of 122-0.

3. Lakewood (6-0, 5-0): The schedule has been weak, but the Spartans have allowed just nine points in six games. Nine points!

4. East Lake (5-2, 1-0): With the offense at full strength, the Eagles scored a season-high 38 in win over Sarasota.

5. Clearwater Central Catholic (5-1, 1-0): The bye week came at an opportune time as Marauders prepare for Class 2A, District 5 showdown with Berkeley Prep.

6. Palm Harbor University (5-2, 1-0): Ground game is clicking as Hurricanes rack up 356 rushing yards against Tarpon Springs to win their second straight.

7. Osceola (4-3, 1-1): This spot could go to as many as five teams. The Warriors get the nod because they have won three straight.

Five things we learned

1. Pinellas Park at Northeast this Friday will be for second place in Class 7A-9. But both teams have to find a way to stop the bleeding. Northeast has lost two straight after winning its first five, and Pinellas Park is coming off a loss to previously winless Boca Ciega.

2. Shutouts are the norm. Through seven weeks, Pinellas County teams have recorded 17 shutouts, including two (Lakewood and Countryside) this past week. Both the Spartans and Cougars have held their opponents scoreless for two straight weeks.

3. Indian Rocks Christian is rolling. The Golden Eagles won their fifth straight with a victory over Canterbury and still sit atop the Class 2A-5 standings. IRC's biggest game comes in two weeks against Carrollwood Day.

4. The demise of Countryside is exaggerated. Since their 27-game regular-season win streak ended last month, the Cougars have won four straight, outscoring their opponents by a combined 174-16.

5. Boca Ciega didn't give up. Halfway through the season, the Pirates were winless and could have mailed it in. Instead, they get two big defensive plays and beat a pretty good Pinellas Park. Good for them.

Three thoughts looking ahead

1. This is a big two-week span for Lakewood. Are the Spartans for real, or will they fade like last season? Jesuit awaits this week, then Robinson at home. It was at this point last season that the Spartans fell out of contention. Class 5A-8 supremacy is on the line.

2. Osceola wasn't expected to do much this season. But the Warriors are right in the hunt in Class 6A-7, and the home game against Tarpon Springs this week is suddenly important.

3. Clearwater Central Catholic can end a couple of streaks at Berkeley Prep this week. If the Marauders win, it will be the first time they have beaten their Class 3A-5 nemesis since 2007. CCC also can end the Buccaneers' 20-game regular-season win streak and 19-game home win streak.

Offensive MVP

Pete DiNovo, QB, East Lake: Couldn't do a whole lot better than DiNovo did against Sarasota as he completed 15-of-19 passes for 232 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensive MVP

Austin Lawrence, DB, Osceola: No one had a bigger impact on his team than Lawrence, who had four interceptions and returned a fumble for a touchdown in a victory over Clearwater. Osceola scored on all five turnovers Lawrence created, including his own 5-yard run for a touchdown in the second half.

Breakout player

Todd Macon, RB, Admiral Farragut: He would not be denied on senior night, gaining 176 yards and scoring three touchdowns against Calvary Christian in a 38-0 win. Oh, and he was named homecoming king.

Times wires
Saturday, October 13, 2012

PITTSBURGH — The day Charlie Strong took over at Louisville nearly three years ago, he gave a memorable, paint-peeling speech in which he told the sliding Cardinals the status quo was no longer acceptable.

After watching his 18th-ranked team slog through an unremarkable opening half Saturday against Pittsburgh, Strong reiterated the point. And just like the first time, he got the desired results.

Teddy Bridgewater hit DeVante Parker for a 75-yard touchdown on the first play of the second half to give Louisville the lead and the Cardinals pulled away for a 45-35 victory to continue their best start since 2006.

"There were some very choice words, but you have to get them going and sometime that's the only way," said Strong, a former Florida defensive coordinator.

Senorise Perry rushed for 101 yards and a career-high four touchdowns for Louisville, which ended a four-game losing streak to Pitt. Bridgewater had 304 yards passing and Parker had four receptions for 153 yards, most coming after Strong's blistering pep talk.

Perry raced 59 yards down the sideline for his final touchdown to seal it. He is the first Louisville running back to score four times in a game since Michael Bush during a triple-overtime loss to West Virginia in 2005.

Tino Sunseri passed for 287 yards and two touchdowns but Pitt couldn't complete a late rally.

NO. 20 RUTGERS 23, SYRACUSE 15: When it comes to game-changing plays against Syracuse, Rutgers linebacker Jamal Merrell might top the list.

After blocking a field goal, an extra point and forcing a game-ending fumble in a double-overtime win a year ago, Merrell stymied the Orange again, blocking a field goal to set up a go-ahead 75-yard touchdown return by Duron Harmon early in the second half to lead the host Scarlet Knights.

Big East defensive player of the year Khaseem Greene had 14 tackles, three forced fumbles, an interception and 1½ sacks for Rutgers, which is bowl eligible for the seventh time in eight years.

Harmon's score put the Scarlet Knights ahead 14-7 instead of potentially being down 10-7.

NO. 21 CINCY 49, FORDHAM 17: Deven Drane scooted 76 yards for a touchdown after picking up a fumble and Munchie Legaux threw two TDs, including a 78-yarder to Travis Kelce, to lead the host Bearcats. Cincinnati stayed perfect but the Rams, from Division I-AA, hung around for a half. The win was Cincinnati's 24th straight in nonconference games at Nippert Stadium and upped its overall winning streak to eight in a row.

TEMPLE 17, UCONN 14, OT: Brandon McManus kicked a 29-yard field goal in overtime for Temple, which trailed for most of the game. Boston College transfer Montel Harris ran 30 times for 142 yards and a touchdown for the host Owls who, on the heels of the previous week's win over USF, own consecutive Big East victories for the first time in program history. This is their first season back in the Big East, where they were perennial doormats from 1991-2004 before being kicked out. The Huskies' Chad Christen missed four field goals including a 28-yarder on UConn's OT possession. Temple's Jalen Fitzpatrick caught a 14-yard touchdown from Chris Coyer with 19 seconds left in regulation.