By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TAMPA — In eight games, USF already has used five different starting offensive lines, including five Bulls who have made their first career starts this season.

And yet as the Bulls try to end the longest losing streak in their history, offensive line has become one of the team's strengths — even with its two most experienced linemen watching from the sideline, USF piled up 369 rushing yards, 8 shy of the school record, in Saturday's loss to Syracuse.

The line likely to start Saturday against Connecticut will feature three sophomores and two redshirt freshmen, a starting five that will return intact in 2013, a potential strength on a Bulls squad that will be young and inexperienced at many positions. First, there are more pressing matters, like getting the Bulls the win that has eluded them since Sept. 8.

"As an offensive lineman, we're not the glitz and glamour guys. We don't get all the stats and whatnot," said redshirt freshman Thor Jozwiak, who made his first start Saturday at left guard, stepping in for injured senior Mark Popek. "But knowing that your running backs and your quarterback had ... 369 rushing yards, that's a pat on our backs. (It) makes a pretty good statement that we played pretty good as a unit."

The Bulls may have a second new starting guard this week, with senior Danous Estenor doubtful with a sprained ankle. His likely successor is another redshirt freshman, Brynjar Gudmundsson, who filled in for Popek for about 70 plays in USF's loss at Louisville. Add sophomore tackles Darrell Williams and Quinterrious Eatmon, and sophomore center Austin Reiter, and it's a future foundation to build around.

"A lot of new young guys, but they've really stepped up," quarterback B.J. Daniels said of the line that has allowed only 11 sacks in eight games. "Even back during summer, I remember Danous Estenor helping out the young guys, showing them the ropes. They're having an opportunity to play, and it's showing some very promising things for us."

That offensive line will have its hands full Saturday against a UConn team that leads the Big East in total defense, ranks first in pass defense, second in rush defense, second in sacks and first on third downs. Defensive end Trevardo Williams leads the league with 7.5 sacks, and linebacker Yawin Smallwood leads the league with 13 tackles for loss, with linebacker Sio Moore tied for third.

USF's breakout rushing game Saturday came against a Syracuse defense that had allowed just 35 yards per game in three previous conference games; the Bulls finished with 10 times that, improving their rushing total for the third game in a row.

"I'm very confident in all of our guys ... we all bonded together at camp," Jozwiak said. "I feel like no matter who's in there, we're going to cope with injury, which is what we're doing. Whoever is playing next to me, they're my brother and we're going to play as a unit. ... It builds a bond. That chemistry we're building is only going to make us better with the years to come."

Greg Auman can be reached at auman@tampabay.com and at (813) 226-3346. Check out his blog at tampabay.com/blogs/bulls and follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.

By Rod Gipson, Times Correspondent
Tuesday, October 30, 2012

TAMPA

Just call it District Showdown Friday.

At least six games involving North of Tampa teams tonight have playoff implications. A district champion could be crowned in two of them, while playoff berths are on the line in four others. And yet another game could have playoff ramifications, given events with another team.

Alonso and Wharton meet in New Tampa with the second Class 8A, District 6 playoff spot on the line. The stakes are the same at Tampa Catholic, where Berkeley Prep is visiting for the second playoff spot in Class 3A-5.

In Class 2A, District 5 contests, Cambridge hosts title-seeking Admiral Farragut, and Carrollwood Day School travels to Calvary Christian in search of a win and its first-ever playoff berth.

And the wild Class 7A, District 7 race might be clearer after tonight. Tampa Bay Tech can win the district crown by beating Gaither, which let Chamberlain back into the race by losing to the Chiefs last week. Chamberlain needs a win tonight at Steinbrenner to keep pace.

And Sickles, seemingly out of the race in Class 6A, District 8, may not quite be out of the playoff race, pending an investigation into a possible ineligible Jefferson player, which may result in forfeits for the Dragons and an extra district win for Sickles. A ruling on that issue is due within 10 days.

All kickoffs are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. unless noted.

Sickles (5-3, 3-2 in Class 6A, District 8) at Leto (0-9, 0-5 in 6A-8)

Last week: Sickles defeated Strawberry Crest 31-17; Leto lost to Jefferson 39-6.

Why you should go: Sickles technically isn't eliminated from the playoff chase, and an expected win tonight against the punchless Falcons will help their cause.

Admiral Farragut Academy (8-1, 6-1 in 2A-5) at Cambridge Christian (5-4, 3-4 in 2A-5)

Last week: Farragut defeated Northside Christian 47-13; Cambridge defeated Seffner Christian Academy 7-6.

Why you should go: Both teams have plenty to play for. Farragut is playing for the 2A-5 title — win and it's theirs. Cambridge is playing for pride and a sixth win this season, which would tie the school record for victories in a season, set last year.

Tampa Bay Tech (6-2, 4-0 in 7A-7) at Gaither (6-2, 3-1 in 7A-7)

Last week: Tampa Bay Tech defeated Freedom 37-0; Gaither lost to Chamberlain 19-17.

Why you should go: This is still a big game, despite Gaither throwing a wrench into the district race with last week's loss to Chamberlain. Here's what we're left with: If Gaither wins and Chamberlain beats Steinbrenner, Tampa Bay Tech, Gaither and Chamberlain would all be 4-1 in district play, which could favor Gaither due to a tiebreaker.

Alonso (5-3, 1-1 in 8A-6) at Wharton (6-2, 1-1 in 8A-6)

Last week: Alonso defeated Tampa Catholic 17-14; Wharton defeated Blake 38-7.

Why you should go: The postseason will be on the line in this one. Plant is the 8A-6 champ, but the winner of this game will earn second place in the district and the accompanying playoff berth.

Carrollwood Day School (8-1, 6-1 in 2A-5) at Calvary Christian (5-3, 5-2 in 2A-5)

Last week: Carrollwood defeated Indian Rocks Christian 28-22; Calvary Christian defeated Bradenton Christian 48-28.

Why you should go: Carrollwood Day is coming off its biggest win of the season, against Indian Rocks Christian, and the Patriots are now in position to play for their first-ever playoff berth, which it can clinch tonight with a win.

Chamberlain (4-4, 3-1 in 7A-7) at Steinbrenner (3-5, 2-3 in 7A-7)

Last week: Chamberlain defeated Gaither 19-17; Steinbrenner defeated Wiregrass Ranch 48-10.

Why you should go: Chamberlain is playing for its first playoff berth in four seasons. After last week's upset of Gaither, the Chiefs have sneaked back into the 7A-7 race. The Chiefs need to win and then check the result of the TBT-Gaither game.

Freedom (2-7, 1-3 in 7A-7) at Wiregrass Ranch (0-8, 0-4 in 7A-7)

Last week: Freedom lost to Tampa Bay Tech 37-0; Wiregrass Ranch lost to Steinbrenner 48-10.

Why you should go: To see who will avoid the 7A-7 basement. Freedom managed just 71 yards and no points in its loss last week. The Patriot offense isn't the most proficient, but should be better than Wiregrass, which has managed just 44 points ALL season.

Berkeley Prep (6-2, 1-1 in 3A-5) at Tampa Catholic (6-2, 1-1 in 3A-5)

Last week: Berkeley Prep lost to Orlando First Academy 56-0; Tampa Catholic lost to Alonso 17-14.

Why you should go: Despite Berkeley's loss to Orlando last week, the game had no district implications. But things are different tonight against Tampa Catholic. The winner gets a wildcard playoff spot; the loser goes home.

By Eve Edelheit, Times staff
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

One by one, each of the homecoming court members began to put their sashes on, laughing nervously in the hallway before being announced at the Raven Rampage pep rally at Alonso High School.

The excitement could be felt in the air.

This wasn't a normal pep rally.

This was homecoming.

"Homecoming is the most talked about event and most exciting time of the year for a high school student," according to Alonso senior and Student Government Association president Sarah Eggnatz.

For some schools, it's just a football game where alumni come back to remember old traditions. For Alonso students, it's a week of coming together in the name of school pride.

The excitement could be felt at the Friday night game, as the girls were helped into their convertibles by their escorts while their families cheered loudly. The feeling carried over into the next afternoon, as the sun set and several young couples smiled for those same camera-toting parents before their homecoming dance.

As the music made the floor vibrate and the colors glowed in the dimly lit room, dozens and dozens of smiles could be seen clearly throughout the room. It was easy to see the hours of preparation a girl had put into her hair or the months of preparation the student government had put into planning the dance.

"You get to get together with your friends, dress up and have a great night dancing with people you know and people you've never met," said Eggnatz. "You only get this chance four times, once a year, and it will never happen, so it's good to make the most of it and have fun."

By Dave Walker, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

After many consecutive blustery days, anglers should be able to safely return to the water. With the recent cool snap partially associated with Hurricane Sandy, fishing should return to seasonal norms in a few days.

What's hot: The water that comes out of the Apollo Beach power plant is very warm compared to the actual water temperature of Tampa Bay. This attracts multiple species. Typically, the first cold front that means business triggers cobia to come to the surface and follow the large spotted eagle rays.

The "hitchhikers" like to cruise right along with the groups of rays or sometimes by themselves.

Tip: On a calm day, the rays on the surface can be spotted from hundreds of yards away. Each one is worth investigating for tag-along cobia.

Tactic: A large plastic eel can be thrown in front of a meandering fish from a fairly far distance. Lead the fish by several feet to avoid spooking the prey. Try to maneuver in front of approaching fish. Trying to catch up with them from behind with a trolling motor can be a hard task.

The large rays can be frightened easily as well. Therefore, caution should be used not to scare the host animal. Multiple casts can often be made at the same target if done carefully.

This time of year, fishing changes dramatically. Do not be discouraged if everything does not go your way in the fall season, a tricky time for fishing and weather.

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

Brandon Wright, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

It's week 10 of the regular season, which is typically the final district games for most teams. It is also the time of the year we start figuring out who Armwood will trounce in the first couple of rounds of the playoffs before moving on to the region final.

Not so fast.

It has been a somewhat disappointing season for the 6-3 Hawks, who haven't had this many losses on the field in a decade. But as of last week, it appeared Armwood, 4-1 in 6A-8, would still move on to the postseason as the district runners up behind Hillsborough (7-1, 5-1).

Again, not so fast.

The Florida High School Athletics Association is currently investigating whether Jefferson used an ineligible player. If that's found to be the case — the FHSAA hadn't made a ruling as of press time — and the Dragons forfeit wins, it throws a monkey wrench in the equation.

Assuming Armwood and Sickles win tonight against King (2-6) and Leto (0-9), respectively, it would create a three-way tie atop the division with the Hawks, Gryphons and Terriers all at one loss.

There's also a potential conundrum in 7A-8. Newsome (4-4, 3-1) seals the second playoff spot behind Durant (8-0, 4-0) if it defeats Plant City (4-4, 2-2) tonight. But if the Raiders win and East Bay (3-5, 2-2) defeats Brandon, it presents another three-way tie atop the division.

If East Bay loses and Plant City wins, they take the runnerup spot.

In the case of tiebreakers, the teams will play Monday night. Fasten your seatbelts.

Plant City (4-4) at Newsome (4-4)

Last week: Plant City defeated Brandon 22-20; Newsome defeated Riverview 42-6.

Why you should go: The Wolves, 3-1 in district, can secure the second postseason spot in 7A-8 with a win tonight after missing the playoffs last year.

Lakewood (7-1) at Spoto (3-5)

Last week: Robinson defeated Lakewood 19-8; Spoto defeated Lennard 13-3.

Why you should go: Fullback Andrew Henry, filling in for an injured Eric Moates, ran 16 times for 111 yards and a TD last week in a win against Lennard.

Dunedin (4-4) at Lennard (0-9)

Last week: Dunedin defeated Middleton 17-7; Spoto defeated Lennard 13-3.

Why you should go: To avoid a winless season, Lennard will have to beat Dunedin, one of the Longhorns' two wins from last year.

Durant (8-0) at Riverview (2-6)

Last week: Durant defeated East Bay 28-3; Newsome defeated Riverview 42-6.

Why you should go: Durant wrapped up first place in 7A-8 with the win last week and improved to 8-0 for the first time in school history. Running back Jamarlon Hamilton has eclipsed the 100-yard mark in all but one game this season. Go see if he can do it again.

Brandon (1-7) at East Bay (3-5)

Last week: Plant City defeated Brandon 22-20; Durant defeated East Bay 28-3.

Why you should go: To see if East Bay can move a step closer to a potential playoff spot. The problem is that the Indians haven't won a home game all season. Meanwhile, Brandon hopes to keep things going in the right direction. The Eagles won their first game of the season two weeks ago and lost a two-point heartbreaker to Plant City last week.

Bloomingdale (4-4) at Plant (7-1)

Last week: Wharton defeated Bloomingdale 28-14 Oct. 19; Plant defeated Armwood 20-19.

Why you should go: Plant slipped past Armwood in a physical game last week and faces undefeated Robinson next week to end the season. Could this be a trap game against the Bulls?

King (2-6) at Armwood (6-3)

Last week: Hillsborough defeated King 43-7; Plant defeated Armwood 20-19.

Why you should go: With the loss last week to Plant, this marks the first time since 2002 that Armwood has lost three games on the field. That's bad news for a weak King team tonight.

Strawberry Crest (3-5) at Jefferson (4-4)

Last week: Sickles defeated Strawberry Crest 31-17; Jefferson defeated Leto 39-6.

Why you should go: The Chargers are known for their passing attack, but defensive lineman Jarrett Gretebeck has put together a nice season, collecting seven sacks so far. Jefferson may be down if the FHSAA forces it to forfeit games because an ineligible player.

By Darek Sharp, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TAMPA

For some area prep football teams, week 10 on the prep schedule can either lift up or foul up the whole season. • In one case, the teams involved know that a win tonight puts them into the playoffs, while others are just hoping for a three-way tie. • There's a lot to sort out, but that's why we're here. • All kickoffs are at 7:30 p.m. Friday.

Berkeley Prep (6-2, 1-1 in 3A-5) at Tampa Catholic (6-2, 1-1)

Last week: Berkeley lost to Orlando First Academy 56-0; TC lost to Alonso 17-14.

Why you should go: This is the winner-in, loser-out matchup of the bunch. Short memory better be a speciality of the Buccaneers, who went to fifth-ranked First Academy in Orlando and allowed 530 rushing yards. Then again, First Academy is undefeated and its closest game was a 28-point win. Tampa Catholic had a much more encouraging loss to 8A Alonso. Since each of these teams fell to Clearwater Central Catholic, which has already clinched the district, this decides who gets in as runner-up.

Tampa Bay Tech (6-2, 4-0 in 7A-7) at Gaither (6-2, 3-1)

Last week: TBT defeated Freedom 37-0; Gaither lost to Chamberlain 19-17.

Why you should go: To see if the Cowboys, who were thought to be a lock to make the postseason, can get there. And they'll have to shake off a gut-wrenching defeat. Last week, Chamberlain scored on a double reverse with 1.5 seconds left to beat the Cowboys, who now face a must-win situation. Gaither has the edge if sense of urgency counts, as Tampa Bay Tech at worst will get a chance to play in a tiebreaker.

Here are the possibilities: If TBT wins then it's easy. Chamberlain, which is at Steinbrenner, would be runner-up behind the Titans with both headed to the playoffs. If Gaither wins, then the Chamberlain-Steinbrenner result becomes relevant. Should Chamberlain win, you'd have the Cowboys, Titans and Chiefs all 4-1 in district play, and the three would go to a Monday shootout to decide both playoff spots.

The preferred route for Gaither would be to have Steinbrenner beat Chamberlain, which would mean the Cowboys are district champs, with the Titans runner-up.

Bloomingdale (4-4, 0-2 in 8A-6) at Plant (7-1, 2-0)

Last week: Bloomingdale was idle; Plant defeated Armwood 20-19 (OT).

Why you should go: For those who haven't picked up on the pattern, this is when Plant generally starts to play state-championship caliber football. Nothing like a dramatic victory over Armwood to boost the Panthers in that direction. Sure, this team isn't quite as powerful as last year's 8A titlists, but until it loses, you wanna pick against Plant? By the way, the Panthers have already locked up this district, whose runner-up spot will go to Friday's Alonso-Wharton winner. Bloomingdale has been quarterbacked all season by a freshman, Isaiah McIntyre, and it has a talented senior back in Eugene Baker.

King (2-6, 2-3 in 6A-8) at Armwood (6-2, 4-1)

Last week: King lost to Hillsborough 46-7; Armwood lost to Plant 20-19 (OT).

Why you should go: To see how the Hawks respond to a second straight loss. They haven't been blown out, but the Hawks' offense is of particular concern. Last week, Armwood resorted to putting Alvin Bailey at quarterback and trying Darryl Richardson at tight end. That's not the wildest move since it's where Richardson projects in college, yet it shows how things are going for Armwood. Remember the Hawks only had three points two weeks ago, and just 10 until a late field goal forced the OT at Plant, where Armwood had an extra-point blocked to lose.

Strawberry Crest (3-5, 1-5 in 6A-8) at Jefferson (4-3, 3-2)

Last week: Strawberry Crest lost to Sickles 38-17; Jefferson defeated Leto 39-6

Why you should go: To see a passing bonanza. We've told you about the high-flying Dragons all year, but wait until you get a load of Chargers WR Karel Hamilton. The only thing more amazing than his ball skills is the fact he's yet to receive a Division I offer. That'll change.

Middleton (2-6, 2-5 in 5A-8) at Robinson (8-0, 7-0)

Last week: Middleton lost to Dunedin 17-7; Robinson defeated Lakewood 19-8.

Why you should go: This might be the last time you can get into a Robinson game without waiting through severe traffic jams. The next two Knights games are at home against Plant - get your tickets today if possible - and then it's playoff time. The Knights were extremely impressive in locking up the district title last week at Lakewood.

Gibbs (2-6, 2-5 in 5A-8) at Blake (3-6, 2-5)

Last week: Gibbs lost to Jesuit 21-13; Blake lost to Wharton 38-7.

Why you should go: Neither team wants to finish in bottom third of the district. Gibbs is a darn good two-win team with a 56-13 victory over Spoto and several close defeats to good teams - last week's result a great example. Last chance here to see Blake, whose bye comes the final week of the schedule.

Idle: Jesuit (6-3), Hillsborough (7-1)

By Darek Sharp, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

A three-game losing streak that very nearly became four.

Injuries to seemingly every player who has attempted to carry the football.

Considering all of that, it's difficult to believe Plant City (4-4, 2-2) still has control of its playoff fate.

But that is the case. With a win over Newsome (4-4, 3-1) tonight and an East Bay loss to Brandon, the Raiders win the runnerup spot and advance. If favored East Bay beats Brandon and Plant City wins, it would happily enter a three-team tiebreaker against Newsome and East Bay on Monday to determine who is headed to the playoffs.

"I would love that opportunity," said Raider head coach Wayne Ward.

His team started off 3-1 with the big win coming against Gaither. Then the Raiders lost to Durant, which is still perfect on the year, and turned in lackluster losing efforts against Alonso and East Bay, the latter result putting Plant City in danger of missing the playoffs.

But last week, Plant City's fortunes finally changed. The Raiders eeked out a 24-22 victory on the road against Brandon thanks to Jorge Navarrette's 35-yard field goal with less than two minutes to play.

"Amazing. It was a beautiful thing," Ward said. "We've had a lot of young players get pressed into duty lately, and not mop-up duty. It's been refreshing."

One of those players, freshman running back Jordan Robinson, followed up a 49-yard effort in the East Bay loss by taking over the Brandon game. Robinson had 16 carries for yards.

And then of course he got hurt, and will miss tonight's critical contest at Newsome.

Already the Raiders have seen Sterling Day and Erving Michael, the two players who were supposed to get most of the carries, go down to injury. Michael (foot) is likely out for the year but Day was actually cleared to practice Tuesday.

"Oh my goodness. It's been one thing after the next and we're not talking about minor injuries. It's been dislocations and breakings," Ward said.

Day should get the start against Newsome but Colby Diers, normally a wide receiver, also will see action.

The key, however, may be what the Raiders can do defensively against Newsome's smashmouth offense and running quarterback Will Worth. Worth put on an amazing show against Plant City last year, running the ball for 310 yards on 31 carries. No one else on the team had more than a half-dozen rushes.

Worth again is the Wolves' top ball carrier. But he also averages more than 10 pass attempts per game also. Newsome has won four of its last five, the lone defeat coming to Durant.

John Broome and Quentin Robinson have led the way along the defensive front for Plant City while junior Dylan Johnson has topped the linebacking group in tackles and Jyquis Thomas has keyed the secondary.

That defeat to Newsome knocked Plant City out of the playoffs last season, and while the Raiders can't return the favor completely Friday it would be a first step.

If the Raiders win, they would host Monday's 7A-8 runner-up tiebreaker by virtue of what would be a superior overall record (5-4, while Newsome would be 4-5 and East Bay no better). That's a huge advantage not only from having more fans, but because Plant City would get a bye for the first quarter.

Whoever wins the first quarter between Newsome and East Bay would then play the Raiders in the second quarter. The coin toss might be the most important play especially with the ball-control nature of either would-be opponent.

"You definitely want the football first," Ward said.

Naturally the Raider must defeat Newsome first. If the Wolves win they go in as the runner-up.

Durant has already clinched the district title.

Times staff
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

.Fast facts

This week on tour

World Golf Championships: HSBC Champions, Mission Hills Golf Club, Guangdong, China. TV: Today-Saturday, 11 p.m., Golf Channel

Champions: Charles Schwab Cup Championship, Desert Mountain Club, Scottsdale, Ariz. TV: Today-Saturday, 4:30 p.m., Golf Channel; Sunday, 3:30 p.m., Golf Channel

LPGA: Mizuno Classic, Kintetsu Kashikojima Country Club, Shima-shi, Mie, Japan. TV: None

By Dave Mistretta, Times Correspondent
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

What's hot: November is another great month to go fishing, although the weather often dictates the outcome. Cold fronts seem to have a bit more fury. Temperatures plummet and the wind howls, causing many anglers to change their schedules. However, anglers can manage to reel in impressive species between these weather systems. Kingfish are going to be in the area for the next month. As each cold front passes, different migrations of these monster-sized mackerel will swim our way.

Tips: The best approach for kings is to look for water temperatures in the mid 70s. Combined with a decent food source, those temperatures can be the key to success. Water clarity is often an issue after these big blows, forcing fish to search for a meal. With gulf closures on so many species, get creative in order to produce fillets for the cooler. Amberjack and kingfish are the perfect fit for the fish box as both make a wonderful smoked fish spread.

Dave Mistretta captains the Jaws Too out of Indian Rocks Beach. Call (727) 439-2628 or visit jawstoo.com.

Times wires
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

ARCADIA, Calif. — The Breeders' Cup Classic owes Game On Dude and Bob Baffert.

Last year, the 5-year-old gelding was beaten in the closing strides of the $5 million race. Drosselmeyer won by 1½ lengths and was retired soon after, while Game On Dude has soldiered on to win four stakes this year. He faltered in the Dubai World Cup, but his worst effort in two years was overshadowed by Baffert's heart attack. The 59-year-old trainer survived his March ordeal, and Game On Dude rebounded to win three of his next four starts.

Now they have a second chance to win the Classic, a feat that has eluded Baffert in nine previous attempts.

Game On Dude is the early 9-5 favorite for Saturday's 1¼-mile race at Santa Anita, where he is 5-0 and Baffert is based.

"He's a better horse this year," Baffert said of Game On Dude, co-owned by MLB executive and former manager Joe Torre. "He seems more relaxed."

The last time the Breeders' Cup was run at Santa Anita in 2010, Baffert went 0-for-3.

Now he has got 10 starters, including Power Broker and Title Contender in the $2 million Juvenile and the pair of Capital Account and Coil in the $1.5 million Sprint.

"If you're in this game long enough, you're going to have highs and lows," he said. "If you can ride out the lows, you know the highs are just around the corner."

Back again: Animal Kingdom, the 2011 Kentucky Derby winner, launches a second comeback from injury in the $2 million Mile on the turf. He rallied from 13th to lose the Preakness by a half-length to Shackleford. In the Belmont, he was sixth, suffering a hock injury that required surgery. He did not run until February, winning an allowance race. Three weeks after, a hairline pelvic fracture that did not require surgery was detected.

So it was back to the bench, and Animal Kingdom resumed training in June. It's not an easy comeback spot. Animal Kingdom is 8-1 against a strong field that includes Wise Dan, the 9-5 favorite, and Excelebration, one of the top grass milers in Europe.

Scratched: Nereid, winless in five races this season and 15-1 on the morning line, was scratched from the $2 million Filly & Mare Turf with a minor injury to the right hind leg.

By Joe Smith and Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writers
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TAMPA — Bucs LG Carl Nicks played through considerable pain during the past several weeks. But his toe injury got to the point where it was unsafe to put him on the field, coach Greg Schiano said Wednesday.

That's why Nicks, an All-Pro, landed on season-ending injured reserve Tuesday as the plantar plate — near the ball of the left foot — is torn and needs surgery.

"You talk about a tough, dedicated guy. This guy played through a ton of pain, and it just got to the point where he couldn't play anymore," Schiano said. "There were some more tests done. Before that, it was painful. But now it's not safe, and we need to get it fixed."

Nicks' absence leaves a large void on the offensive line, which lost two-time Pro Bowl RG Davin Joseph to a season-ending knee injury in the preseason. Schiano said he plans to work with different combinations during the week to see how they'll replace Nicks. One option is moving the versatile Jeremy Zuttah from center to left guard and put recently benched RG Ted Larsen at center. The two took snaps at those positions in Wednesday's practice.

Either way, Schiano said they plan to stick with the game plan other than taking out plays specifically tailored to Nicks.

"You cannot sit there and … actually say that losing Carl is not going to hurt you. He's the best guard in the league," LT Donald Penn said. "We have to step up. The next person has to step up, whoever it's going to be. That's how I got my start. That's how a lot of people got their start in this league."

Said Schiano: "It's a tough loss. That's an understatement when you face a guy of Carl's stature and the ability that he brings to the field each week. But nobody is going to feel sorry for us. That's the game."

WRIGHT update: CB Eric Wright was still limited due to an Achilles injury. And while he's improving, his status for Sunday is uncertain, Schiano said. There has been no update on Fox Sports' Jay Glazer Sunday report that Wright is facing a four-game suspension for using Adderall.

TOUGH TASK: When the Bucs began breaking down film of the Raiders this week, one aspect caught their eye: the defensive front. That's where DTs Richard Seymour and Tommy Kelly combine for a potent, physical combination.

"They're as big and powerful as you're going to see in this league," Schiano said. "The linebackers are playing at a high level. We're going to have to strap it up. It's going to be one of those physical games."

The talent up front got the attention of Penn, too.

"We have a hell of a Raiders team we have to play this week," he said. "Their front four is very, very good. We have to go out there and battle. It's going to be tough. Those two guys are real good, and they're playing some real good football this year. I think their front seven, including their linebackers, is the strength of their defense."

Roster move: CB Danny Gorrer was claimed off waivers from the Seahawks. Seattle signed him Sept. 18, but he did not appear in a game. Last season, he appeared in 11 games for the Ravens, recording five tackles and four passes defensed. The Bucs had an open roster spot after TE Danny Noble went on injured reserve Tuesday.

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

ST. PETERSBURG — Picking up options worth $10.25 million on James Shields and $2.5 million on Fernando Rodney really weren't much of a decision for the Rays.

Declining a $6 million option on DH Luke Scott and picking up a $1.8 million option on catcher Jose Molina were a bit more involved.

In cutting loose Scott (and paying a $1 million buyout), the Rays weren't prepared yet to commit to him as a DH/corner outfielder in filling out a lineup that potentially has four open spots.

"We have enough decisions to make on the position-player side that each decision we make has a domino effect, so we just didn't want to make any decision right now that would push us in any one certain direction," executive vice president Andrew Friedman said. "We have a lot of guys to potentially add, so we felt like that gave us the most flexibility."

Scott, 34, hit .229 with 14 homers and 55 RBIs in 96 games but missed 45 with two stints on the disabled list while making $5 million in 2012. Friedman said both sides agreed to "keep the door open" on a possible return.

In retaining Molina, the Rays assured they would have at least a backup they were comfortable with at one of their thinnest positions, while keeping open the possibility of acquiring a true frontline catcher.

"We felt like he added a lot to our pitching staff with his knowledge of the game and the pitch-calling and the controlling of the running game; we were extremely successful on the run-prevention side, and we felt Jose Molina was a big part of that success," Friedman said. "We feel confident he's going to be one of two that helps us win games. Who the other one is, I don't know yet."

Molina, 37, hit .223 with eight home runs and 32 RBIs over 102 games, throwing out 27.8 percent of attempted base stealers.

Shields will be the subject of trade speculation throughout the winter, but Friedman reiterated that the Rays don't feel they "have" to trade a starter and said they could afford both Shields and David Price, who is expected to get $7.5 million to $10 million via arbitration. "Anytime you get your option picked up, it's a good day," Shields said. "Obviously I want to be a Ray."

The Rays aren't expected to re-sign any of their own free agents before the market opens at 12:01 a.m. Saturday. They also have until then to decide on making a one-year, $13.3 million qualifying offer to centerfielder B.J. Upton, entitling them to draft-pick compensation if he leaves, as expected.

ANGELS-ROYALS TRADE: Los Angeles traded right-hander Ervin Santana to Kansas City for minor-league left-hander Brandon Sisk. The Angels exercised Santana's $13 million option for next season before trading him and cash to the Royals. Santana, 29, is 96-80 with a 4.33 ERA over eight seasons, all with the Angels, but struggled this past season. Also, the Royals declined their option on Joakim Soria, a former All-Star closer who missed 2012 due to reconstructive elbow surgery.

Yankees' Soriano opts out: Former Rays reliever Rafael Soriano opted out of the final year of his contract with the Yankees and likely will seek a long-term deal in free agency. The move by Soriano, 32, was expected, but there was a difference of opinion over what was said. Club president Randy Levine said agent Scott Boras told him "he was confident (Soriano) could get $15 (million) for four years." Boras denied he had given a figure. "I never make promises as to what the free agent market might bear," the agent said.

Party Time: Orange-and-black clad hordes flooded the streets of San Francisco for a parade celebrating the World Series champion Giants. Tens of thousands decked out in the team's colors stood 30 deep behind barriers, climbed trees and mounted rooftops along San Francisco's main commercial street to celebrate. The unifying energy of the Giants' victory was evident as 49ers QB Alex Smith drove the car carrying Giants pitcher Matt Cain, while 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh did the honors for first baseman Brandon Belt.

BLUE JAYS: The team exercised its $3 million option on left-hander Darren Oliver and signed outfielder Rajai Davis to a one-year, $2.5 million contract.

INDIANS: New manager Terry Francona kept Sandy Alomar as his bench coach and hired former Astros manager Brad Mills as his third-base coach. Also, the team picked up right-hander Ubaldo Jimenez's $5.75 million option and declined options on DH Travis Hafner and right-hander Roberto Hernandez.

MARLINS: Former Pirates manager Lloyd McClendon became at least the fourth candidate to interview for Miami's job.

ORIOLES: The club exercised its option on reliever Luis Ayala and declined its option on infielder Mark Reynolds.

PIRATES: Former infielder Jay Bell was named hitting coach. The team picked up its option on third baseman Pedro Alvarez and parted with catcher Rod Barajas.

REDS: Outfielder Ryan Ludwick declined a mutual option, making him a free agent.

ROCKIES: Left-hander Jorge De La Rosa exercised a player option that will pay him $11 million in 2013.

Information from Times wires was used in this report.

Times wires
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TALLAHASSEE — Defending ACC champions. It has a ring to it that Florida State basketball coach Leonard Hamilton hopes to hear often.

Although the Seminoles lost a half-dozen players from the team that won the school's first ACC tournament title, Hamilton believes this season's club is potentially better than the one that finished 25-10 before losing to Cincinnati in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Only a few folks voted the Seminoles to repeat this season, with North Carolina State the preseason favorite to prevail. The Seminoles were picked fourth by the media and fifth by ACC coaches in preseason surveys.

"We're going to surprise a lot of people," Hamilton said. "We like this team."

Lofty goals indeed for a club that defeated Duke and North Carolina twice last season, including a 33-point blowout of the Tar Heels in January.

Depth again is always the key to any Hamilton-coached team, and he believes he has it, albeit much of it youthful.

"The strength of our teams has always been the quality of our depth, and I think that's going to be something that's going to be consistent," he said. "We lost four starters, but we return our four leading scorers."

The Seminoles play an 18-game ACC schedule that features visits from North Carolina, Duke and preseason-favorite North Carolina State, along with a nonconference slate highlighted by archrival Florida and Minnesota in the annual ACC/Big Ten Challenge.

Hamilton wants to get off to a better start than last season, when the Seminoles stood 9-6 in early January before a 16-4 finish.

"We did get off to kind of a rocky start last year, but now our goal is to try to be a lot more ready earlier to go and play up to our ability," Hamilton said. "It is going to be somewhat of a challenge when you're trying to integrate as many first-year players into our system."

But the veteran coach doesn't seem too worried as he eyes a fifth straight 20-win season and even possibly a repeat as ACC champion. The Seminoles are 95-41 the past four seasons and 43-21 in the ACC.

Hamilton doesn't expect any dropoff.

"I'm not sure we like being the underdog," he said. "We have kids we like very much."

LESSON LEARNED: EJ Manuel has grown weary of answering questions about his football team's lone defeat, but there the quarterback was Saturday night, reluctantly admitting that FSU's early October loss to North Carolina State has had some benefit.

Since the Seminoles fell on the road Oct. 6, they have grown, he said.

"I don't really like commenting on it very much because I can't say whether we are better or worse (since the loss)," Manuel said. "But I do believe we've learned from it."

Information from the Orlando Sentinel was used in this report.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Tonight

Chiefs (1-6) at Chargers (3-4)

When/where: 8:20; Qualcomm Stadium, San Diego

TV/radio: NFL Network; 98.7-FM, 1010-AM

Line/OU: Chargers by 8; 42½

The Chargers look lost right now. They've lost four of five and three straight, including 7-6 on Sunday at Cleveland. We'd like to think San Diego has enough talent to win a home game against the Chiefs in a short week. Philip Rivers needs to complete a higher percentage of his passes, and the Chargers defense will have to find a way to slow running back Jamaal Charles. But this is not a game they should lose. The Chargers have won five straight home games against the Chiefs.

Stephen F. Holder's pick: Chargers 24, Chiefs 18

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Ever see the 1975 movie Rollerball with James Caan?

Here's the gist: In a future run by corporations, the No. 1 sport is an ultraviolent battle between modern-day gladiators covered in heavily armored uniforms. Rabid fans wager on games where players are crippled or, in some cases, even killed.

Think about that.

A sport run by corporations. Ultraviolent. Modern-day gladiators. Heavily armored uniforms. Rabid fans. Gambling. Players carted off with shattered bodies.

Forget a 1970s science fiction movie. That sounds like 2012 football, doesn't it?

Problem is, it's not a movie. It's real.

Isn't that disturbing? Shouldn't we be more bothered by that? Shouldn't we feel at least a little bit bad that we're such a hungry audience for such a brutal sport?

Each weekend we sit in front of our televisions, hour after hour, flipping from one game to the next. Week after week NFL games are, by far, the most-watched television shows in the country. More than 111 million of us watch the Super Bowl.

We go to games, arriving hours ahead of time, eating and drinking and playing cornhole in grass parking lots. We pore over injury charts and schedules and matchups, wondering whom to start and whom to bench on our fantasy teams.

And, yes, some even place a telephone call every week to make an illegal bet or two.

Then we sit back and watch this incredibly violent game. We see players get their legs twisted like pretzels. We watch players limp off the field while another races in to take his place. We see dizzy athletes escorted off by trainers.

Those are the lucky ones.

Some don't get up. Some are hauled off on stretchers. Many can't walk, either now or when they get older. Some take an hour to get out of bed. Some old-timers can't remember their own names. Some live in such pain, mentally and physically, that their best solution is to put a gun in their mouth.

Here are four stories in the past few days alone that remind us of just how violent and messed up the game of football can be.

Marcus Lattimore

The University of South Carolina player was one of the best running backs in the nation. Already recovered from one major knee injury, Lattimore took a devastating hit last weekend against Tennessee that left his other leg in shambles. He dislocated his right knee and suffered severe ligament damage. Essentially, the only thing that held his lower leg to his upper leg was skin and veins.

The replay of Lattimore's leg flopping around like a strand of spaghetti was so grotesque that ESPN had to warn squeamish viewers before deciding to stop showing the clip altogether.

Carl Nicks

The Bucs guard, it was announced Tuesday, will miss the rest of the season with an injured big toe. Surely some folks raised their eyebrows and thought, "He is going to miss the rest of the season with a bad toe?''

Let's get something straight. It doesn't look anything like a toe. It's more like a water-logged baseball covered in skin — and something that sort of resembles a toenail. I've seen it up close and had to turn away so as not to gag.

This mangled, swollen piece of beef jerky has been like that for weeks, and one can only assume Nicks was getting shot after shot just to be able to walk on game days, let alone block 280-pound linemen. Anything to play. Anything to stay in the lineup.

Meantime, we all heard the news and our first question was, "Great, who's going to play guard now?''

Eric Wright

We're still awaiting official word from the NFL, but there's a report that cornerback Eric Wright will be the second Buccaneer this season to be suspended for using Adderall. Cornerback Aqib Talib was the other.

How messed up is this? Players — and clearly these aren't the only two in the NFL — who would take a drug meant to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder just so they could be better football players?

South Florida gambling ring

Nine were arrested Tuesday in Broward County in connection with a gambling ring that centered around peewee games. Youth league coaches met before games to set point spreads and place bets, with more than $100,000 wagered on a championship game.

It's a disturbing story, but we would have to be naive to think this is the only place where people are betting on youth or high school games.

Final thought

I'm not pointing a finger here. I'm not holier than thou. I like football just as much as the next guy. I make a living in part because of football. I write about it. I talk about it. I, too, ask who is going to replace Carl Nicks.

But I also can't help but take some responsibility for just how popular this sport has become.

It's popular because we watch it, bet on it, set our weekends around it. Because it's so popular, players risk having their knees obliterated or shoulders cracked or their toes turned into twice-baked potatoes. Because it's so popular, players pop pills and shoot juice to make themselves bigger, faster, stronger, better.

Man, this is a brutal sport. It's unfair. It's violent. It's frightening. And we cannot get enough of it. Just like some action-packed movie.

But, while you're watching tonight and this weekend, take a moment to remind yourself that this is not a movie. It's real life with real people.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

To say Steven Stamkos is at loose ends is probably overstating things a bit.

But the Lightning's All-Star center has a lot of free time on his hands, thanks to the NHL lockout, that extra work in the gym and playing pickup games at the local rink just can't fill.

"I guess it's the old saying, you don't realize what you have until you lose it," Stamkos said. "For me, my whole life has been hockey, and now you don't have that. It's tough."

From the sound of things, it is not going to get better soon.

The league, perhaps today, will cancel the Jan. 1 Winter Classic. The NHL and players association haven't formally negotiated since Oct. 18 and have no plans to resume.

So, Stamkos, 22, who last season became the first NHL player in four years to score 60 goals, contemplates playing in Europe — "I'm going to see what happens in the next two or three weeks before I go any further" — takes advantage of extra opportunities to see family and friends, and tries to stay in some kind of hockey shape.

That means working three days a week with fitness guru and former Lightning player Gary Roberts, who has trained Stamkos the past several summers and whose gym is near Stamkos' Toronto-area home.

Stamkos also works two or three days a week with Jari Bryski, who runs a hockey school in Toronto and has coached Stamkos on skating and stick skills since he was 8.

"For now," Stamkos said, "I'm planning that there will be some sort of a season."

Until then, he must deal with a new reality.

Stamkos has played organized hockey since age 3 and said it's weird for the first time since then not to be playing when his body and mind are saying he should.

"You don't realize how routine-oriented you are," he said, "Training in the summer, you're always gearing up for camp. When you're at camp, you're gearing up for an exhibition game. Everything is hockey-related.

"So, it's trying to find a new routine to get into. It took a while, but I'm finally settling in. I've got my workouts. I've been going to skates and trying to keep in the best shape I can, not to do anything crazy, but just maintain all the hard work you've put in over the summer."

The thing with Stamkos is how far he has progressed the past two seasons, not only on the ice but as a team leader.

Because he has learned how to create scoring chances from anywhere in the offensive zone, he no longer is dependent on his power-play one-timer for goals.

After games, Stamkos' thoughtful perspective makes him, win or lose, a go-to guy for reporters.

If Lightning coach Guy Boucher is worried further development will be delayed by what might be a missed season, he is not saying.

"He's picked up all the tools to be able to be a consistent two-way winner," Boucher said. "He wants to take another step this year."

"He's one of the fastest skaters in the league and wants to be faster," Lightning captain Vinny Lecavalier said. "That tells you how hard he works."

That tells you he wants to tie up any loose ends.

NOTES: The good news, wing Marty St. Louis said, is Hurricane Sandy pushed water only to the front door of his new Greenwich, Conn., house. "But the back yard," he said, "is part of the ocean." … Goaltender Mathieu Garon is back skating at the Ice Sports Forum in Brandon after playing two exhibition games with fellow NHL players in Canada's Quebec province. "It was good to be on the ice in a game," the Quebec City resident said, "but there was no defense."

Damian Cristodero can be reached at cristodero@tampabay.com. Read his blog is at lightning.tampabay.com. Follow him on Twitter at @LightningTimes.

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

TAMPA — Erik Lorig has been plugged into a lot of spots during his brief NFL career. He was drafted by the Bucs out of Stanford as a defensive end, switched to tight end and later adapted to the role of fullback.

But on Oct. 25, Lorig found himself in another strange position: high-stepping into the end zone at the Metrodome. He wasn't prepared, slipping flat on his back and bracing his fall by grabbing the pylon.

"It was a joyous occasion," Lorig said, smiling. "There was a lot of celebration."

Lorig and his teammates had reason to savor the moment in their 36-17 win over the Vikings. It was the first touchdown of Lorig's career, coming on a first-and-goal play-action fake in which he sneaked into the left flat past safety Harrison Smith.

In addition, Lorig's blocking helped rookie Doug Martin crease the Vikings defense for 135 rushing yards on 29 carries.

"He's a good fullback, and he's athletic," tight end Dallas Clark said. "He can give that hit and make that hole that Doug needs. He's a tough, tough guy because … I don't want that job.

"Through camp and the season, he's been giving some great, great shots for Doug and opened things up for us."

Lorig was a long shot to even make an NFL roster. Having switched from tight end to defensive end at Stanford, the Bucs took him in the seventh round — No. 253 overall — in 2010.

Lorig made the practice squad. And after the Bucs started 0-4 in their first year under coach Raheem Morris, offensive coordinator Greg Olson insisted on switching him to tight end during the bye week.

"When … we saw him catch a pass on scout team that day, we said, 'You look a little too good on offense,' " defensive tackle Gerald McCoy said. "That's a testament to how hard he works because that's not his natural position. But he said, 'Whatever I can do for this team, I'll do. Whatever I've got to do to stay in this league, I will do.' He put in the work, and it shows."

Lorig entered the league at 265 pounds. Before the end of his rookie year, the Bucs informed him of their plans to make him a fullback. The NFL lockout slowed his growth at that position.

But last offseason, Lorig worked closely with a nutritionist and Jay Butler, the Bucs' strength and conditioning coach. Together they transformed Lorig's body, dropping his weight to 250 and reducing his body fat by 7 percent.

The difference in Lorig's role was obvious during the season opener, in which he caught four passes for 21 yards while carving holes for Martin. His eight catches this season, for 53 yards and a touchdown, are one more than his first two seasons combined.

"Erik has done a great job as a blocker, as the fullback in a lot of our run game schemes and in protections," offensive coordinator Mike Sullivan said. "And he does a lot of things that really don't get seen by the naked eye — the subtleties that he helps from a pass-protection standpoint, and then he's been catching the ball and being productive with it after the catch.

"You have that as an additional weapon. We're excited where he's at, and he's certainly been one of those players who's getting better and better and helping us."

Lorig's versatility was evident at Palos Verdes Peninsula High in Rolling Hills Estates, Calif. As a senior, he recorded 130 tackles, 91/2 sacks, 20 tackles for loss and four interceptions as well as 550 receiving yards and eight touchdowns as a tight end. His Stanford undergraduate degree in public policy and pursuit of a master's in digital media interaction are evidence of his mental acumen.

"In college, I always felt like I had the ability to play both (defense and offense)," Lorig said. "And coming out, there was a lot of mention that I would have the opportunity to play both … and some special teams. So I was prepared to do that."

Maybe next time, Lorig will be prepared to reach the end zone.

"It was part of that personal vision I had," Lorig said. "And I was happy I could score some points and help the team win."

Times staff, wires
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

GAINESVILLE — After QB Jeff Driskel was sacked five times in a 17-9 loss to Georgia on Saturday, the Gators offensive linemen held a meeting called by senior T Xavier Nixon and junior C Jonotthan Harrison.

Harrison said Wednesday he does not expect protection to be an issue going forward.

"Last game wasn't our best performance, but we've shown what we're capable of, and it's well known the potential that our offensive line has," Harrison said. "I just know we're going to bounce back this Saturday (against Missouri) and make sure everyone is fundamentally sound on the offensive line."

Screen game: In the past two games, the Gators' longest play in each was on a screen pass. In a win over South Carolina, it was a 39-yarder to TE Jordan Reed. Against Georgia, it was RB Mike Gillislee's 29-yarder.

Offensive coordinator Brent Pease said screens are effective but only when used at the right time. "If you're going to be good in screens, you have to dedicate some time on it because there's timing involved, reads and timing with the lineman and setting up with the back," he said.

FB Hunter Joyer believes an increase in screens could help neutralize opposing pass rushers. "They couldn't rush as hard anymore," he said. "It would get them guessing about other things."

USF: New WR backups

TAMPA — Injuries to receivers Andre Davis, Derrick Hopkins and D'Vario Montgomery have forced the USF offense to add names to its two-deep depth chart.

“David Aristil, Jordan Duval, Clinton Jones — probably not a lot of names that the everyday Bulls fans have heard a lot of — they're all on the depth chart right now," coach Skip Holtz said.

Veteran receivers Victor Marc, Deonte Welch and Terrence Mitchell are ready, and Holtz was pleased that Davis returned to practice after missing Tuesday with a knee injury.

SHAW eager: Junior RB Marcus Shaw said he is prepared for the increased workload with Lindsey Lamar out (broken collarbone). "I'm jacked," said Shaw, who injured an ankle in the first game. He rushed for 34 yards on four carries against Syracuse on Saturday. "He's exciting when the ball gets under his arm," Holtz said. "I'm just hoping that he can stay healthy."

Jurisprudence: Sophomore WR Chris Dunkley, suspended indefinitely after his arrest in September on a domestic violence battery charge, agreed Monday to enter into a domestic violence intervention program for first-time offenders.

Greg Auman, Times staff writer; Joe Polito, Times correspondent

UCF: Maturing QB

ORLANDO — Knights QB Blake Bortles threw his first career touchdown pass last season in a loss to Southern Methodist, and Mustangs coach June Jones remembers him.

This season Bortles has completed 72 of 108 passes for 940 yards and five touchdowns. Against Marshall on Saturday, he passed for a career-high 277 yards.

"I can tell he is getting his feet on the ground, too," said Jones, whose team faces Bortles and UCF on Saturday. "He also throws the ball accurately and is completing (67.2) percent of his passes, so that tells you he's getting better and better."

Orlando Sentinel

FSU: Sound check

TALLAHASSEE — The No. 9 Seminoles will spend part of practice this week amid sound intended to simulate a raucous crowd like the one they may hear next week at Virginia Tech.

FSU used the tactic before going on the road to face N.C. State, but the Wolfpack won 17-16.

"It will be a huge challenge for us," said FSU coach Jimbo Fisher, referring to the Hokies' Lane Stadium.

Orlando Sentinel

Times wires
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Tennis

Djokovic rolls, then falls apart

PARIS — Sam Querrey rallied to beat Novak Djokovic 0-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 in the second round of the Paris Masters on Wednesday. It was the first time since the Miami Masters in March 2010 that Djokovic was eliminated so early.

"During the second set, I already felt that physically I'm down," he said. "I had a really difficult period in the last couple of weeks. Some things happened, and a lot of things are on my mind."

Querrey lost the first set in just 21 minutes.

"It was a little embarrassing," he said. "But then I got rolling and got more confidence … and a little more aggressive."

Tournament of Champions: Caroline Wozniacki beat Roberta Vinci 6-3, 6-1 to earn a spot in the semifinals in Sofia, Bulgaria. The other berths in the round-robin event haven't been determined.

Running

New York marathon will go on, mayor says

The New York marathon will happen Sunday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg said during a briefing on Hurricane Sandy. "There's an awful lot of small businesses that depend on these people," he said. "I think for those who were lost, you've got to believe they would want us to have an economy and have a city go on for those that they left behind." Organizers were still assessing the damage along the route and all logistics, including transporting runners to the start line on Staten Island.

Autos

NASCAR parks historic driver for Texas race

NASCAR won't let Nur Ali, the first driver of Pakistani descent to compete at the national level, run in Saturday's Nationwide race at 1½-mile Texas Motor Speedway. The native of Fort Worth, Texas, crashed in his debut, the Oct. 20 Nationwide event at Kansas Speedway. NASCAR wants him to get more experience on smaller tracks before racing on another 1½-mile track. He hopes to race in the Nov. 10 Nationwide race at Phoenix, a 1-mile track.

Et cetera

Greyhounds: Flying Observer, Lily Rose, Intentionally and Switzler Hubble won second-round qualifying races for the Fall Juvenile Stakes at St. Petersburg's Derby Lane. Round 3 is Saturday.

Soccer: Daniel Sturridge and Ramires scored in extra time as host Chelsea beat Manchester United 5-4 to reach the League Cup quarters. … Visiting Houston beat Chicago 2-1 in the MLS playoffs. It next faces Kansas City.

Don Jensen, Times correspondent; Times wires

Times wires
Wednesday, October 31, 2012

GAINESVILLE — No. 10 Florida will be without forward Casey Prather for an exhibition game tonight against Nebraska-Kearney.

Prather sustained a concussion during a scrimmage Saturday and was ruled out Wednesday.

Prather will be re-evaluated before determining his availability for the team's season opener Nov. 9 against Georgetown on the USS Bataan in Jacksonville, the Gators said.

Prather, a 6-foot-6 junior from Jackson, Tenn., averaged 2.0 points and 1.8 rebounds last season. Without him, the Gators will have 10 scholarship players available for the exhibition game, including four freshmen.

BRUIN CLEARED: UCLA freshman Kyle Anderson, one of the nation's top recruits last year, was cleared by the NCAA to play this season. The No. 13 Bruins were told Anderson could play after the NCAA "found no evidence to substantiate claims of violations in his case," athletic director Dan Guerrero said. Anderson was being investigated for potential recruiting violations.

Still unresolved is the status of freshman Shabazz Muhammad, another highly sought recruit who is the subject of an NCAA investigation into alleged improper benefits.

MICHIGAN: The No. 5 Wolverines suspended guard Trey Burke for today's exhibition opener against Northern Michigan for violating team standards.

MINNESOTA: Freshman shooting guard Wally Ellenson has a broken left hand and will miss six to eight weeks.