By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 25, 2011

USF vs. Florida Atlantic

When/where: 7 p.m.; Martinez Center, Tampa

Radio: 1250 AM

Records: USF 4-2, FAU 3-3

Notable: It's a good test for the Bulls against a team that beat Hofstra and George Mason but also lost to American and Portland. … The Bulls hope to get back forward Augustus Gilchrist, who missed Wednesday's win against Georgia Southern with a shoulder injury. Gilchrist is second in scoring (11.6 ppg) on the team to sophomore guard Victor Rudd (13.2). … The Owls are led by guard Greg Gantt (14.7 ppg); he's hitting 40 percent on 3-pointers. FAU has nine players averaging 14 minutes or more. … The Bulls are hitting 66 percent on free throws, down from 71 percent last year.

Greg Auman, Times staff writer

Friday, November 25, 2011

TULSA, Okla. — Facing a fourth down in a tight game, Patrick Edwards saw an opportunity to put No. 8 Houston in control Friday.

During a timeout, Edwards asked to be sent on a deep route to convert a fourth and 1.

"I told them, 'If you run it, I'll win,' " Edwards said. "So we called it, and I scored."

Edwards' 38-yard touchdown catch sparked a string of 28 straight points, and Houston beat Tulsa 48-16 to earn a spot in next week's Conference USA championship game.

Case Keenum threw for 457 yards and five touchdowns, and Edwards finished with 181 yards receiving and four scores as the Cougars (12-0, 8-0) set a school season record by winning their 12th game. The 12 straight wins also match the school's longest winning streak, set over the 1990 and '91 seasons.

Houston hosts either Southern Mississippi or Marshall in the C-USA title game. With a win, the Cougars will earn their first BCS bowl bid and become the first team from the conference to play in the Bowl Championship Series.

"Along the way, there's been a bunch of records broken and a bunch of milestones crossed, but the ultimate goal for us from Day 1 was to win the conference championship," coach Kevin Sumlin said.

Keenum hooked up with Edwards twice for touchdowns on fourth down, a 33-yarder on fourth and 10 in the second quarter and a 38-yarder on fourth and 1 in the third.

Tulsa (8-4, 7-1) was allowing an average of 16 points per game in league play but couldn't keep up in the second half.

No. 22 Nebraska 20, Iowa 7: Rex Burkhead, who started the week with his right foot in a walking boot, ran for 160 yards and a touchdown on a school-record 38 carries for the host Huskers (9-3, 5-3 Big Ten).

After quarterback Taylor Martinez tweaked his left ankle in the first quarter, offensive coordinator Tim Beck told Burkhead he would get the ball.

He had eight carries for 39 yards on a 10-play drive that ended with his 2-yard run and a 20-0 lead in the fourth quarter.

The Hawkeyes (7-5, 4-4) avoided getting shut out for the first time in 11 years when Marcus Coker scored with 3:26 left.

Around the nation

W.Va. 21, Pitt 20: Shawne Alston rushed for two second-half touchdowns, including a 1-yarder with 6:10 left, and the host Mountaineers (8-3, 4-2 Big East) came from 10 points down in the Backyard Brawl.

The Mountaineers, who sacked Tino Sunseri 10 times, including four on Pitt's (5-6, 3-3) final drive, can earn a share of the conference title next week with a win at USF.

Pittsburgh led 17-7 at halftime. The defense forced three turnovers, but the offense was limited to 80 yards in the second half. "Head-scratching; don't understand it," Pitt coach Todd Graham said.

Colorado 17, Utah 14: Coleman Petersen missed a 48-yard field goal with two seconds left as the visiting Buffaloes halted their school-record 23-game road losing streak and ended the Utes' hopes for the Pac-12 South title. UCLA will represent the South in the inaugural Pac-12 title game.

FSU women reach soccer's College Cup

TALLAHASSEE — Ines Jaurena, Dagny Brynjarsdottir and Tiffany McCarty scored, and keeper Kelsey Wys made six saves as the host Seminoles shut out Virginia 3-0 to reach the national semifinals of the women's College Cup.

The Seminoles (18-6-1), who play Dec. 2 in Kennesaw, Ga., against Stanford, had beaten Virginia (17-5-2) for the first in the ACC tournament. Duke and Wake Forest play in the other semi.

Times wires
Friday, November 25, 2011

PARADISE ISLAND, Bahamas — Florida State has played a lot of defensive games the past couple of years. It worked to perfection last season, when the Seminoles reached the Sweet 16 and led the nation in opponent field goal percentage.

Only this time it was FSU struggling to score against Harvard's sturdy defense.

The Seminoles shot 36 percent in a 46-41 loss to the Crimson in Friday's semifinals of the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament.

"They were much more physical than we were inside, even though we were bigger and stronger," FSU coach Leonard Hamilton said.

"We got outplayed, probably got outcoached, and you just got to give them credit. They wanted the game more than us, they were tougher, more physical, and they made better decisions with the game on the line. They deserved to win the basketball game."

Brandyn Curry had six points, five assists and five steals for Harvard (5-0), which is coming off the first Ivy League title in school history last season. Oliver McNally and Wesley Saunders had seven points apiece.

"I don't think I've ever seen a game like that," Harvard coach Tommy Amaker said. "I find it hard to see how we were able to come out on top against a nationally ranked, outstanding defensive team in Florida State."

The Seminoles (5-1) missed their first 15 shots. Michael Snaer led FSU with 10 points, and Luke Loucks of Clearwater had eight.

Curry keyed the victory with his solid play down the stretch.

"Brandyn is our best playmaker," Amaker said.

The halftime score was 14-14, matching the lowest total for a half in a Division I game since 1986. Ole Miss (15) and South Carolina (13) combined for 28 in the first half on Jan. 8, 2003. The Seminoles were 5-for-24 from the field in the half, Harvard 3-for-23.

Snaer's layup gave the Seminoles a 24-23 lead with 9:48 left, but Harvard countered with an 8-0 run. FSU pulled within three on Bernard James' layup with 2:33 left, but Curry made a 3 from the left corner.

Keith Wright had eight rebounds to help the Crimson outrebound the Seminoles 40-30. FSU faces No. 4 Connecticut in today's consolation game.

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 25, 2011

GAINESVILLE — Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan made it clear this week he doesn't believe in revenge games.

But entering Friday night's game against Jacksonville, several Gator players said they clearly remembered last year's overtime loss to the Dolphins — and the way Jacksonville celebrated on Florida's home court.

Revenge might not have been the major factor Friday, but it was part of a strong motivation to win. No. 10 Florida (4-1) led by 20 at halftime and went on to defeat Jacksonville 107-62.

"I felt like this game was the best game we've played in terms of how I envisioned our team playing offensive and defensively," Donovan said. "Our guys were disappointed about the loss last year, and they came in focused. I thought we played the right way. It was good to see the jump from the last game to this game."

The Gators played the game without junior forward Erik Murphy and missed sophomore forward Casey Prather in the second half (groin). Donovan said trainers ruled out an ACL injury to Murphy, but the exact nature of the injury was unknown.

Sophomore forward Will Yeguette got his first start in Murphy's absence and had eight points and nine rebounds.

Florida shot 44 percent from 3-point range. The Gators have hit double-digit 3-pointers in every game this season. The Gators played an up-tempo, pressing style that wore JU (2-3) down.

"That was our goal," said Gators senior guard Erving Walker, who had 21 points and six assists. "Coach wanted us to wear them down. That's why we get in shape in the summer and do all the running, so we can be able to play at that pace."

Florida junior guard Kenny Boynton led all scorers with 22, and freshman guard Bradley Beal added 15 points and five assists. Russell Powell led the Dolphins with 15 points, and fellow guard Keith McDougald added 12.

Antonya English can be reached at english@sptimes.com.

Times wires
Friday, November 25, 2011

PARADISE ISLAND, Bahamas — Marcus Jordan was headed to the free throw line for two big shots Friday when a teammate said an encouraging message.

"He told me this shot is in my blood," Jordan said.

Yup, like father, like son.

Jordan, the son of Hall of Famer Michael Jordan, made two key free throws to give Central Florida the lead with 3:11 left and the Knights upset No. 4 Connecticut 68-63 in the semifinals of the Battle 4 Atlantis, snapping the Huskies' 16-game winning streak.

Jordan and Keith Clanton each scored 20 for the Knights (4-1), who trailed by 17 early in the second half.

Jeremy Lamb had 15 points for the defending national champion Huskies (5-1), who lost for the first time since March 5 against Notre Dame.

"I can't be more disappointed in how we played," UConn coach Jim Calhoun said. "We just stopped playing. We couldn't even get the ball inbounded near the end."

UConn led 50-33 with 16 minutes left. UCF scored 17 of the next 19 points to pull within two. Clanton kicked off the rally with a 3-pointer and Jordan finished the spurt with a 3.

Lamb's 3 stretched the Huskies' lead to five. But Jordan converted a layup, then made the two free throws to give UCF a 58-57 advantage.

The Knights face Harvard in today's final. Connecticut faces No. 22 Florida State in the consolation game.

NO. 3 OHIO ST. 80, VALPO 47: William Buford scored 17 of his 25 points in the second half for the host Buckeyes (6-0), who tuned up for a home showdown against No. 6 Duke on Tuesday.

NO. 5 SYRACUSE 69, STANFORD 63: The Orange went on a 15-3 run to end it, erasing a late six-point deficit in the final of the NIT Season Tip-Off at New York's Madison Square Garden. "We played 40 minutes of good defense, 35 minutes of horrendous offense and 3 to 4 minutes of fullcourt pressure to get back in the game," Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim said. "They outplayed us the whole game." Kris Joseph had 18 points and eight rebounds for Syracuse (6-0).

NO. 7 LOUISVILLE 59, OHIO 54: Kyle Kuric scored 16 and Gorgui Dieng grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds for the host Cardinals (5-0) in the Global Sports Invitational for Rick Pitino's 250th victory as Louisville's coach.

NO. 11 WIS. 66, BRADLEY 43: Josh Gasser, Ryan Evans and Jordan Taylor scored 15 each for the Badgers (5-0), who face BYU in today's Chicago Invitational Challenge final.

NO. 12 XAVIER 70, GEORGIA 56: Tu Holloway overcame a sore shooting hand to score 12 for the host Musketeers (4-0), who held the Bulldogs to 32 percent shooting.

NO. 17 PITT 78, PENN 58: Khem Birch had 15 points and 10 rebounds for the visiting Panthers (4-1) in the Philly Hoop Group Classic. The game was at the Palestra, Penn's home, but chants of "Let's Go Pitt" echoed throughout the old gym.

NO. 18 VANDY 95, MONMOUTH 73: John Jenkins scored 18 and Jeff Taylor and Brad Tinsley added 16 each as the host Commodores beat former Vanderbilt assistant King Rice.

NO. 24 MISS. ST. 76, UT-MARTIN 50: Dee Bost and Rodney Hood scored 17 apiece for the host Bulldogs (6-1), who shot 59.3 percent (32 of 54).

UT's SCHMIDT STILL WAITS: Tampa (1-3) lost to Shaw 70-50 at the Thanksgiving Classic in St. Petersburg, leaving Spartans coach Richard Schmidt still one short of 600 career wins.

MISSISSIPPI 64, MIAMI 61, OT: The visiting Hurricanes missed on potential winning and tying shots by Malcolm Grant at the end of regulation and in overtime. Grant led the Hurricanes (4-1) with 22 points.

ECKERD 81, P.R.-BAYAMON 71: Lance Kearse and Wayne Sears scored 24 each for the host Tritons (3-0), who face Shaw (N.C.) in today's final of the Thanksgiving Classic.

SYRACUSE CASE: Authorities involved in a sexual-abuse investigation of Syracuse assistant Bernie Fine carried out a search at his home but declined to comment on what they were looking for. New York State Police spokesman Jack Keller said troopers were called to assist the U.S. Attorney's Office.

NOTRE DAME: Senior star Tim Abromaitis (torn ACL, right knee) is out for the season.

Women: FSU falls to No. 11 Louisville

TALLAHASSEE — Shoni Schimmel scored 25 and Monique Reid added 23 to lead No. 11 Louisville past Florida State 85-76. Schimmel's 3 with 4:23 left snapped a tie at 66 for the Cardinals (5-1). Cierra Bravard scored a career-high 27 for FSU (3-3), which began the season ranked 14th but has lost three of four. The Seminoles committed 24 turnovers.

NO. 2 UCONN 74, FDU 28: The Huskies (4-0) extended their NCAA-record home winning streak to 87 against Fairleigh Dickinson. Did the rout please UConn coach Geno Auriemma? Well. … "I thought it was the worst exhibition of basketball I've ever seen by two teams in the 27 years I've been in Connecticut," he said. "We should give everybody a refund."

NO. 3 STANFORD 80, XAVIER 64: Nnemkadi Ogwumike scored a season-high 34 for the visiting Cardinal (4-1).

NO. 4 NOTRE DAME 80, USC 58: Point guard Skylar Diggins had 22 points, five steals and no turnovers for the Fighting Irish (4-1) at the Junkanoo Jam tournament in Freeport, Bahamas.

NO. 5 TEXAS A&M 71, TEMPLE 59: Adaora Elonu scored a career-high 23 as the Aggies (5-0) made the Lucaya division final at the Junkanoo Jam.

NO. 7 DUKE 97, GARDNER-WEBB 31: Tricia Liston scored 23 to lead the Blue Devils (5-0), who face Notre Dame in today's Junkanoo Jam final.

NO. 8 MARYLAND 84, FIU 52: The visiting Terrapins (6-0) led just 44-30 at halftime but an 18-7 spurt to open the second half put the Golden Panthers away.

NO. 12 OKLAHOMA 76, LIBERTY 45: Morgan Hook and Aaryn Ellenberg scored 22 apiece for the Sooners (3-0), who face host Vanderbilt in today's Thanksgiving Tournament final.

NO. 13 RUTGERS 59, GA. TECH 40: April Sykes had 16 points and 10 rebounds for the Scarlet Knights (5-0), who held the Yellow Jackets to 21 percent shooting in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

NO. 14 KENTUCKY 73, SAM HOUSTON 52: Keyla Snowden scored 19 for the host Wildcats (6-0), who led by just seven at halftime.

NO. 17 PENN ST. 66, IOWA ST. 59: Maggie Lucas scored 18 for the Nittany Lions (4-1), who face host Nevada in today's John Ascuaga's Nugget Classic final in Reno.

NO. 18 OHIO ST. 84, STONY BROOK 37: Samantha Prahalis had 25 points in 28 minutes for the host Buckeyes (4-0).

NO. 19 TEXAS TECH 94, MO.-KC 67: Kierra Mallard had 22 points and 13 rebounds for the host Red Raiders (3-0).

NO. 24 TEXAS 79, NO. 22 VIRGINIA 53: Guard Chassidy Fussell scored 30 for the Longhorns (3-1) against the Cavaliers (4-1) at the Rainbow Wahine Showdown in Honolulu.

W. VA. 63, NO. 25 UCLA 54: Taylor Palmer scored 18 as the Mountaineers upset the Bruins (2-2) at the Holiday Inn Thanksgiving Classic in Northridge, Calif.

FLORIDA 85, LA SALLE 74: Jordan Jones had 28 points to lead the Gators (4-1) to victory in Brooklyn, N.Y.

ECKERD 68, P.R.-BAYAMON 52: Linsey Niles scored 13 for the host Tritons (2-1) at the Thanksgiving Classic and face Queens (N.C.) at 3 today.

TAMPA 65, N. ALABAMA 63: Moriah Hodge scored 27 for the Spartans (2-3) against the hosts of the North Alabama tourney.

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 25, 2011

SUNRISE — Say this for the Lightning, it rarely goes out quietly at the BankAtlantic Center.

For the third consecutive meeting at Florida, Tampa Bay trailed entering the third period but battled to force overtime. And center Steven Stamkos capped off the comeback Friday night with the winner, a one-timer from the left circle midway through the extra session to give the Lightning a much-needed 2-1 victory over the Panthers.

Stamkos' goal came on the power play — the Lightning's second all night — and helped snap Florida's three-game winning streak.

"I closed my eyes and shot that one as hard as I could," Stamkos said. "It was nice to see that one go in and get those two points."

Florida has been one of the league's biggest surprises, going from last in the Eastern Conference last season to the top of the Southeast Division this year. With the Lightning (10-9-2) entering Friday trailing the Panthers by seven points, it could ill afford to leave a home-and-home series empty-handed.

Considering Friday was the seventh time in the past 10 meetings a game between the teams went to overtime, fans for tonight's rematch at the St. Pete Times Forum should plan for a long night.

"Our identity is close games, too," Stamkos said. "We just happen to have them a lot against those guys."

Coach Guy Boucher implored his team to get off to a fast start, something it has struggled with on the road this year. He joked he must have yelled "Speed! Speed!" 3,000 times, and the Lightning responded with a relentless forecheck, outshooting the Panthers 7-1 in the first 10 minutes (and 31-24 for the game).

"We had our speed right away," Boucher said. "And when we've got our speed, we're dangerous."

Though the Lightning failed to cash in on many early chances, the Panthers struck first with about eight minutes left in the second. Tomas Fleisch­mann scored on a two-on-one sparked from a blocked shot at the Florida blue line.

Goalie Mathieu Garon played well, making 23 saves and keeping the Lightning in it until Vinny Lecavalier's tying goal midway through the third.

"(Garon) was definitely a star for us," Stamkos said.

On Lecavalier's goal, moments after the Panthers' Kris Versteeg hit the post, Marty St. Louis took advantage of a Florida turnover and set up Lecavalier, who knocked in a rebound of his shot for his 10th goal of the year. That set the stage for Stamkos' winner, which came off a great fake and pass by St. Louis.

"We needed our top guys to come up big, and Vinny scores the goal, 'Stammer' scores the goal and Marty set up everybody," Boucher said. "That's what we've got."

Whether it takes more than 60 minutes or not.

First Period—None. Penalties—Brewer, TB (delay of game), 11:55; Clark, TB (high-sticking), 16:48.

Second Period—1, Florida, Fleischmann 10 (Weiss), 12:38. Penalties—None.

Third Period—2, Tampa Bay, Lecavalier 10 (St. Louis), 8:59. Penalties—Clark, TB (interference), 6:47; Repik, Fla (goaltender interference), 13:01; Stamkos, TB (interference), 13:16.

Overtime—3, Tampa Bay, Stamkos 12 (St. Louis, Bergeron), 2:29 (pp). Penalties—Kulikov, Fla (interference), :48. Shots on Goal—Tampa Bay 7-13-8-3—31. Florida 5-13-6-0—24. Power-play opportunities—Tampa Bay 1 of 2; Florida 0 of 4. Goalies—Tampa Bay, Garon 4-3-1 (24 shots-23 saves). Florida, Theodore 9-4-3 (31-29).

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Friday, November 25, 2011

SUNRISE — It was hard to wipe the smile off the face of Dana Tyrell during the trip to South Florida.

Tyrell, 22, called up from AHL Norfolk on Thanksgiving, made his season debut Friday against the Panthers, reuniting with C Nate Thompson and RW Adam Hall on a line that was so successful last season. He played 10:36 and had three shots, and was even for the game.

It had been a long time coming for Tyrell, who was one of the final cuts of training camp. That was partly a business decision because he wouldn't have to be exposed to waivers getting sent down. Also, the Lightning wanted to get a look at rookie RW Brett Connolly, C Blair Jones and C Mattias Ritola.

"They're things that are out of my control," Tyrell said. "I wouldn't say it caught me offguard, but it wasn't something I was completely expecting. It was tough, but I got over it pretty quick and realized what I had to do to get back up here and things I had to improve in my game."

Coach Guy Boucher lauded how Tyrell handled the situation like a "perfect soldier" with "no pout." He said Tyrell, a "relentless" 5-foot-10, 180-pound grinder with speed, will get to play. Tyrell takes the roster spot of Jones, who was reassigned to Norfolk.

"We didn't bring him up to sit," Boucher said. "He played great in the American League. He did what he's been doing since he's been with this organization, and that's the drive with incredible speed, he pays the price, he's reliable defensively.

"And that line last year was tremendous for us with Tyrell, Thompson and Hall. And right now we feel that if we can get something that worked really well for us, it just adds on to something that can give us some consistency."

Tyrell, a second-year pro who played 78 games last season, worked a bit on his offense in Norfolk and is ready to contribute.

"I'm really excited," he said. "I just want to get back playing the way I know I can in the NHL and stick here."

MEDICAL MATTERS: RW Steve Downie (upper body) did not play against the Panthers, and Boucher was unsure when he would return to the lineup. Downie made the trip and worked out off-ice during the morning skate.

MR. JONES: Jones made an impression during last season's playoffs. His play fell off a little bit this season, and he sat in 10 of the first 20 games before getting reassigned.

"The way it works in the NHL is you get a little ice time, and if you do something, you get a little more," Boucher said. "What happened was, I think (Jones) got a little nervous, and that prevented him from skating the way he can, from making the plays the way he can, and he became nervous defensively, too, which caused him to lose his game.

"So being in the stands, losing his game, losing confidence, we feel it's better off for him getting some ice time in the American League, become a jack-of-all-trades down there and getting his confidence back."

MISCELLANY: D Bruno Gervais was scratched. … D Mattias Ohlund (knees) could start traveling with the team starting next week, Boucher said, but he still isn't close to returning.

Associated Press
Saturday, November 26, 2011

NEW YORK — After nearly two years of bickering, NBA players and owners are back on the same side.

"We want to play basketball," Commissioner David Stern said.

Come Christmas Day, they should be.

The sides reached a tentative agreement early Saturday to end the 149-day lockout and hope to begin the delayed season with a marquee tripleheader Dec. 25. Most of a season that seemed in jeopardy of being lost entirely will be salvaged if both sides approve the handshake deal.

Barring a change in scheduling, the 2011-12 season will open with the Boston Celtics at New York Knicks, followed by Miami at Dallas in an NBA finals rematch before MVP Derrick Rose and Chicago visiting Kobe Bryant and the Lakers.

Neither side provided many specifics about the deal, and there are still legal hurdles that must be cleared before gymnasiums are open again.

"We thought it was in both of our interest to try to reach a resolution and save the game," union executive director Billy Hunter said.

After a secret meeting earlier this week that got the broken process back on track, the sides met for more than 15 hours Friday, working to save the season. Stern said the agreement was "subject to a variety of approvals and very complex machinations, but we're optimistic that will all come to pass and that the NBA season will begin Dec. 25."

The league plans a 66-game season and aims to open training camps Dec. 9, with free agency opening at the same time. Stern has said it would take about 30 days from an agreement to playing the first game.

"All I feel right now is 'finally,' " Miami Heat star Dwyane Wade told the Associated Press.

Just 12 days after talks broke down and Stern declared the NBA could be headed to a "nuclear winter," he sat next to Hunter to announce the 10-year deal, with either side able to opt out after the sixth year.

"For myself, it's great to be a part of this particular moment in terms of giving our fans what they wanted and wanted to see," said Derek Fisher, the president of the players' association.

A majority on each side is needed to approve the agreement, first reported by CBSSports.com. The NBA needs votes from 15 of 29 owners. (The league owns the New Orleans Hornets.) Stern said the labor committee plans to discuss the agreement later Saturday and expects them to endorse it and recommend to the full board.

The union needs a simple majority of its 430-plus members. That process is a bit more complicated after the players dissolved the union Nov. 14. Now, they must drop their antitrust lawsuit in Minnesota and reform the union before voting on the deal.

Because the union disbanded, a new collective bargaining agreement can only be completed once the union has reformed. Drug testing and other issues still must be negotiated between the players and the league, which also must dismiss its lawsuit filed in New York.

"We're very pleased we've come this far," Stern said. "There's still a lot of work to be done."

The sides will quickly return to work later Saturday, speaking with attorneys and their own committees to keep the process moving.

When the NBA returns, owners hope to find the type of parity that exists in the NFL, where the small-market Green Bay Packers are the current champions. The NBA has been dominated in recent years by the biggest spenders, with Boston, Los Angeles and Dallas winning the last four titles.

"I think it will largely prevent the high-spending teams from competing in the free-agent market the way they've been able to in the past. It's not the system we sought out to get in terms of a harder cap, but the luxury tax is harsher than it was. We hope it's effective," deputy commissioner Adam Silver said.

"We feel ultimately it will give fans in every community hope that their team can compete for championships."

The league hopes fans come right back, despite their anger over a work stoppage that followed such a successful season. But owners wanted more of the league's $4 billion in annual revenues after players were guaranteed 57 percent of basketball-related income in the old deal.

Participating in the talks for the league were Stern, Silver, Spurs owner Peter Holt, the chairman of the labor relations committee, and attorneys Rick Buchanan and Dan Rube. The players were represented by executive director Billy Hunter, president Derek Fisher, vice president Maurice Evans, attorney Ron Klempner and economist Kevin Murphy.

Owners locked out the players July 1, and the sides spent most of the summer and fall battling over the division of revenues and other changes owners wanted in a new collective bargaining agreement. They said they lost hundreds of millions of dollars in each year of the former deal, ratified in 2005, and they wanted a system where the big-market teams wouldn't have the ability to outspend their smaller counterparts.

Players fought against those changes, not wanting to see any teams taken out of the market when they became free agents.

"This was not an easy agreement for anyone. The owners came in having suffered substantial losses and feeling the system wasn't working fairly across all teams," Silver said. "I certainly know the players had strong views about expectations in terms of what they should be getting from the system. It required a lot of compromise from both parties' part, and I think that's what we saw today."

Even the final day had turbulent patches. It required multiple calls with the owners' labor relations committee, all the while knowing another breakdown in talks would mean not only the loss of the Christmas schedule but possibly even the entire season.

"We resolved, despite some even bumps this evening, that the greater good required us to knock ourselves out and come to this tentative understanding," Stern said.

He denied the litigation was a factor in accelerating a deal, but things happened relatively quickly after the players filed a suit that could have won them some $6 billion in damages.

"For us the litigation is something that just has to be dealt with," Stern said. "It was not the reason for the settlement. The reason for the settlement was we've got fans, we've got players who would like to play and we've got others who are dependent on us. And it's always been our goal to reach a deal that was fair to both sides and get us playing as soon as possible, but that took a little time."

It finally yielded the second shortened season in NBA history, joining the 1998-99 lockout that reduced the schedule to 50 games. This time the league will miss 16 games off the normal schedule.

Though the deal's expected to be approved, it may not be unanimous as there are factions of hard-liners in both camps who will be unhappy with substantive portions of the deal.

"Let's all pray this turns out well," Pacers forward Danny Granger wrote on Twitter.

But getting what the owners wanted took a toll. Stern, after more than 27 years as the league's commissioner, hoped to close a deal much sooner but was committed for fighting for the owners' wishes even at the risk of damaging his legacy. Hunter dealt with anger from agents and even questions from his own players about his strategy, wondering why it could so long for the players to use the threat of litigation to give them leverage that had otherwise eluded them.

The sides met just twice in the first two months of the lockout before stepping up the pace in September, when it was already too late to open camps on time. The sides tried meeting in small groups, large groups and even mediation, but nothing sparked compromise.

Things changed this week with the entrance of Jim Quinn, a former NBPA counsel who had good relationships on both sides. The meeting Friday was held at the office of his law firm, though he did not take part.

Hunter said the terms of the deal would come out shortly, preferring to keep them private until they could be shared with the players. They might not like the deal, but it will be better than what many of them feared. Resigned to possibly missing the season, some had signed deals overseas so they would have some paycheck.

Instead, they're a step closer to returning home.

By Mike Manning, Times Correspondent
Saturday, November 26, 2011

What's hot: The fall fishing has been great over the past two weeks whether you are offshore or inshore. The Spanish mackerel are everywhere from Tampa Bay to Bayport. These mackerel are in large schools on most local artificial reefs and any area with a hard bottom. They also can be located in and around passes, shipping channels and deep-water grass flats. On a recent trip, we boated more than 60 mackerel in three hours, most between 20-24 inches and a few up to 30.

Technique: I like to start off drift fishing, casting a quarter-ounce jig with a white plastic tail to locate the fish. Once you locate the fish, anchor up and put out a frozen chum bag to get the mackerel in a feeding frenzy. Once they're schooled up behind the boat, you can catch them with live or artificial bait. Sometimes, there will be so many mackerel that you can't cast your bait behind your boat because they swim into your line and cut it off.

Tip: I like to rig up several jig heads on a No. 2 or No. 3 wire in case you get on a major bite. If the water is real clear, you can use 40-pound monoleader instead of the wire, but you will get cut off sometimes on the monoleader.

Mike Manning runs Action Fishing Adventures out of Tarpon Springs. Call him toll-free at 1-800-644-5940.

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

At 22 years old, they might not let you change lug nuts during the Daytona 500 on your first day with the pit crew. You might not get to anchor SportsCenter on Super Bowl Sunday.

But start every game at middle linebacker for the Bucs?

Now we're talking.

At least that was the discussion coach Raheem Morris and general manager Mark Dominik had about rookie Mason Foster in April.

Do they attempt to re-sign steady Barrett Ruud to a one-year contract and let him mentor the third-round pick from Washington? Or throw Foster to the Lions (and Vikings and Bears)?

"A lot of people are going to say, 'Man, you're only 22 years old. You're a rookie. There's no way you're going to be able to make those checks and lead the defense,' " Foster said. "But at the same time, nothing is impossible. I have a lot of confidence in myself, and I love a challenge."

Same discussion, different team.

The Titans, whom the Bucs face today, used a fourth-round pick on Miami middle linebacker Colin McCarthy, a former Clearwater Central Catholic star.

But instead of baptizing McCarthy by fire, the Titans signed Ruud to a one-year, $4 million contract.

"We needed some leadership on defense, and Barrett's been a really good fit for us," Titans coach Mike Munchak said of Ruud, who spent six seasons with the Bucs.

"He's a smart player who runs well and can stay on the field every play. He's a guy that has come in and really quarterbacked the defense well. We've had four rookies start at the same time on defense, and Ruud's done a great job of keeping us together."

Ruud, 28, fought through a shoulder injury in the preseason to start the first eight games for the Titans this season, recording 63 tackles, three passes defensed, one quarterback hurry and an interception that helped finish off the Colts on Oct. 30. A groin strain prevented him from playing two weeks ago against Carolina. He aggravated the injury last week against Atlanta and will sit out today's game.

In his first start for Ruud, against Carolina, McCarthy recorded 12 tackles, including two for losses, and a quarterback pressure. After replacing Ruud against Atlanta, McCarthy forced a fumble and led the Titans with 10 tackles.

McCarthy, 23, credits Ruud for his development, particularly film study.

"Barrett's been playing great," McCarthy told Titansonline.com. "He's great to learn from. I think that's the biggest thing as far as being a younger guy. He's a guy that's been around the game. He knows how to study. He knows how to prepare."

The Titans are tied for seventh in scoring defense at 19.5 points per game. The Bucs are 29th at 26.8.

"I feel like I have a welcome-to-the-NFL moment every week," Foster said. "I'm facing so many different backs every week and so many different schemes. Against the Texans, you're going to face zone schemes where offensive linemen are climbing up. You go against the Saints, and you're playing against a quarterback like Drew Brees and you're going man-to-man against (running back) Darren Sproles, a super fast guy.

"You learn from your mistakes. Go in there, mess it up and you'll be better able to handle it next time."

Foster has played better than Tampa Bay expected. He leads the team in tackles with 73 and has two sacks and a forced fumble despite trying to play two games with sprained ankles. In fact, the Bucs planned on using him only in their base defense. But an injury to Quincy Black early forced him into duty on passing downs, and he hasn't come off the field except for injury.

"Pretty much, Mason's playing quarterback for the defense," Morris said. "He's making every single call. He's making every single check. And that's tough to do.

"It's hard for me to look at him sometimes and get mad at him when he does make a small mistake in games. You've got to go and learn through fire."

Ruud, who led the Bucs in tackles for four straight seasons, never got enough credit for his football IQ, Morris said.

"He was far beyond," Morris said. "You're talking about having the ability to call one defense and have it turn into three different things by the time he was done. He didn't get enough credit for that. You have to talk about his ability to run a defense, to be that leader."

Two teams, two approaches.

But you get the feeling both are happy with the results.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

How much do you know about all the great players that played at your high school over the years? (Miami Northwestern has produced more than 20 NFL players, including Melvin Bratton, Marvin Jones and former Bucs Nate Webster, Torrie Cox and Antonio Bryant.)

Most of my family are alumni of Miami Northwestern, so I used to go out there and watch those guys. I used to love watching Torrie Cox. I used to want to be like that guy. I remember when he was a running back, and at the time, I was playing running back at Gwen Cherry Optimist (a youth league in Liberty City).

Were you at the playoff game in the Orange Bowl in '98 when Northwestern had that great comeback (down 14-2 with three minutes left)?

Yep. That was the Soul Bowl II (a rematch against Miami Jackson). The winner was going to go to (the state final). Antonio Bryant made a one-handed catch on the last play of the game. I definitely remember that. That was a great experience. Everyone had given up. I actually had walked out of the stadium. But then we heard the crowd getting loud. We ran back in, and I was there to see the last play. We had thought the game was over.

Once you got to high school, what was your biggest memory?

Just being around all those players the year we went undefeated and won the state title. I was on the team with (University of Miami players) Jacory Harris, Sean Spence, Marcus Fortson.

You made a decision to go to Florida International and help that program grow. Do you take a lot of pride in that?

Everything I do, I take pride in it. That's definitely true with FIU. I wasn't going there to play around. I was going there to make a statement. So when I first committed, I said I wanted to go there and help change the program. It worked out that way. You can see it right now. They already have the best record in school history, and that's after we already won a bowl game (last season). You can see the improvement. There was a time when nobody wanted to go there, when we were 1-11 (in 2007).

Okay, here are my weekly questions: What's playing the most on your iPod?

Probably (rapper) J. Cole's new album.

What would I be surprised to find on your iPod?

I actually have a lot of R. Kelly slow jams on there.

What website do you visit the most?

I love shoes, so I'm on all types of websites that sell shoes. FlightClubNY.com is one. I'm always on there trying to see when new Air Jordans are coming out. I love Jordans.

So how often do you end up buying a pair of shoes?

Man, probably twice a week. I try not to — seriously. My closet is getting ridiculous.

What reality show do you never miss?

I would have to say Basketball Wives. Stuff is always going down on that show. There was something on there recently with two women messing with the same guy and they were going at it, man.

I had this same conversation with cornerback Elbert Mack. You're a little guy, and you're young. So are people surprised when they find out you play football?

Oh, man. They say stuff like, "You're too young. You look like a baby." They say all kinds of stuff, even, "But you don't have no facial hair!" I can't say nothing to that. I just laugh. It makes it easy to go where you want to go, though. I walk through the mall, and nobody knows who I am. It's a lot easier than (Josh) Freeman or Ronde (Barber).

So what do you do when you're not at One Buc Place?

I'm a simple guy, man. I stay on the PlayStation, and I'll stay up until 2 or 3 (a.m.) playing games. I'm really into it. Right now, I'm playing the basketball game NBA 2K12. That's all I do. I play with the Heat. Guys say I'm cheating, that they have three playmakers. Hey, I play with the best team. I'm trying to win, man.

With Thanksgiving, I'm wondering what does your mom make that's hands down the best?

My mom and my family are up here spending a little time with me. Macaroni, collard greens, ribs. (Ribs) is my special order. She puts that aside for me. She hooks me up. Oh, and I love the banana pudding. That's my favorite.

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

The poll

What did you think of coach Raheem Morris' decision to try an onside kick against the Packers with the Bucs down by two and 4:25 remaining in the game?

Total: 494 votes

By the numbers

0-6 Bucs' record at Tennessee

3-2 Record of Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck against the Bucs (all while with the Seahawks)

77.3 Rushing yards per game for the Titans, worst in the NFL

133.5 Rushing yards per game allowed by the Bucs, 22nd in the NFL

95-68 Record of country singer Faith Hill in predicting the winner of NFL games this season for the Nashville Tennessean, including 5-9 last week; for today, she picks the Titans

What they're saying

Against the Packers, LeGarrette Blount finally had a run reminiscent of his rookie season, breaking seven tackles on his way to a 54-yard TD run. The Bucs have underperformed this season but have a chance to get back on track … with games against the Titans, Panthers and Jaguars.

Brian Billick Fox Sports

With the continued slippage of Chris Johnson, who is on pace to rush for just 814 yards, the arrival of LeGarrette Blount as Tampa Bay's featured back is noteworthy. Remember, the Titans signed the 6-foot, 247-pound Blount as an undrafted rookie prior to the 2010 season but later put him on waivers, hoping to move him to the practice squad only to have the Bucs grab him. Think Blount would be a nice alternative to Johnson now?

David Climer Nashville Tennessean

The picks

At some point if you're Raheem Morris, you've benefited from GM Mark Dominik spending four top-55 picks in the last two drafts on defense, you're a defensive guy yourself, you see your defense has allowed 102 more points than Houston this season and 75 more points than Cleveland … I mean, don't you walk into your Saturday night meeting before this game and say to your D, "Fellas, are you kidding me?" Bucs, 24-16.

Peter King Sports Illustrated

It seems as though it is something of a moral victory for the Buccaneers — hanging with Green Bay to the bitter end. But moral victories don't make four-game losing streaks disappear. Neither do defenses that allow 123 points during the streak. Titans, 24-23.

Gerry Dulac Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Fantasy owners who have stuck with maddening Chris Johnson could be rewarded here. The Bucs' run defense has been the worst in the league the past four games, allowing 162 yards per. Titans, 24-20.

Greg Cote Miami Herald

Bucs vs. Titans

1 p.m., LP Field, Nashville

TV/radio: Ch. 13; 620-AM, 103.5-FM

Line/over-under: Titans by 3½; 43

Loved it: 25 percent

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

Power rankings

1. Packers 2. Ravens

3. 49ers 4. Saints

5. Patriots 6. Steelers

Upset special

Colts (0-10) over Panthers (2-8)

If there's any chance Indianapolis actually picks up a victory this season, this could be its best opportunity.

Family affair

With Rams defensive end Chris Long, son of Hall of Famer Howie Long (1981-93) racking up a career-best and team-high nine sacks, he needs just one against the Cardinals today to join Clay Matthews Jr. (1978-96) and Clay Matthews (2009-11) as the only father-son duos to record double-digit sacks in at least one season.

Bad news of the week

As if it couldn't get any worse for the Bills, who have lost three in a row since starting 5-2, they lost their best offensive player for the season last week. Running back Fred Jackson, who ranks second in the league in yards from scrimmage and makes up 40 percent of Buffalo's offense, suffered a fractured fibula in his lower right leg. He's the fourth starter the Bills have lost over the past three weeks. "It's a huge blow for us," guard Andy Levitre told the Buffalo News.

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

In Hines' defense

Steelers veteran receiver Hines Ward took the high road last week after he was benched. He said he was "owed nothing." But Pittsburgh Post-Gazette writer Ed Bouchette argues otherwise. "This some-day Hall of Fame candidate deserved one thing — more respect through a simple, quiet meeting with one of his coaches to tell him that his role had changed. This isn't some fly-by-night player here. This is the most decorated and productive receiver in Steelers history, a Super Bowl MVP and often the face and spokesman for the team. It's not wrong that he lost his starting status or was dropped to No. 4 or even No. 5 on the depth chart. But someone owed him at least a heads-up that it was going to happen and maybe even an explanation as to why."

Tebow take of the week

While Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow, the former Gators star, has received his share of praise (and criticism) since taking over as the starter, CBSSports.com columnist Gregg Doyel took it a step further. He argues if Tebow keeps it up, he should be a contender for the league MVP award. "It's not only that he plays quarterback for a team that has won four of its past five games. Tebow should be a legit MVP candidate — if this keeps up — because of the way the Broncos are winning these games. They're winning because of Tebow. Or rather, Tebow is winning these games."

Vent of the week

As disappointing as the Giants' 17-10 loss to the Eagles last week was, safety Antrel Rolle made it pretty clear what the issue could have been. "We're too calm, man. We're too relaxed come Sunday. We're too poised," Rolle said on WFAN-AM via New York's Daily News. "There's a way of going out there and having that dog in you, having that fight in you, and at the same time playing smart. You can have that dog in you. You understand what I'm saying? That's the thing that irks my nerves."

Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers, above, can't remember a time during his career — including peewee and high school — when he lost five consecutive games. • "Never," he said. • But San Diego enters today's game against Denver in the midst of its first five-game skid since 2003 and has fallen into last in the AFC West. There were a few who predicted during the preseason the Chargers would reach the Super Bowl, and they boast a lot of talent. But during a season in which nearly everything has gone wrong, from a struggling defense to a porous offensive line (and even an occasionally sloppy Rivers), coach Norv Turner and general manager A.J. Smith are taking some heat. • "We're kind of behind the eight ball right now," receiver Vincent Jackson told the San Diego Union-Tribune. "But there's always light at the end of the tunnel." • But Union-Tribune columnist Nick Canepa argues otherwise: "Maybe enough crew, but not enough bilge pumps. This ship is radioing the Titanic wondering what it does on January weekends."

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

Probable starters

BUCS OFFENSE

WR: Mike Williams 19

LT: Donald Penn 70

LG: Jeremy Zuttah 76

C: Jeff Faine 52

RG: Davin Joseph 75

RT: Jeremy Trueblood 65

TE: Kellen Winslow 82

WR: Arrelious Benn 17

QB: Josh Freeman 5

RB: LeGarrette Blount 27

FB: Erik Lorig 44

BUCS DEFENSE

DE: Da'Quan Bowers 91

DT: Albert Haynesworth 95

DT: Brian Price 92

DE: Adrian Clayborn 94

LB: Quincy Black 58

LB: Mason Foster 59

LB: Geno Hayes 54

CB: Aqib Talib 25

CB: Ronde Barber 20

SS: Sean Jones 26

FS: Tanard Jackson 36

Special Teams

P: Michael Koenen 9

PK: Connor Barth 10

KO: Michael Koenen 9

PR/KR: Preston Parker 87

Titans offense

WR: Damian Williams 17

LT: Michael Roos 71

LG: Leroy Harris 64

C: Eugene Amano 54

RG: Jake Scott 73

RT: David Stewart 76

TE: Craig Stevens 88

WR: Nate Washington 85

QB: Matt Hasselbeck 8

FB: Ahmard Hall 45

RB: Chris Johnson 28

Titans defense

DE: Derrick Morgan 90

DT: Malcolm Sheppard 96

DT: Karl Klug 97

DE: Jason Jones 91

LB: Akeem Ayers 56

LB: Colin McCarthy 52

LB: Will Witherspoon 92

CB: Jason McCourty 30

CB: Cortland Finnegan 31

SS: Jordan Babineaux 26

FS: Michael Griffin 33

Special teams

P: Brett Kern 6

PK: Rob Bironas 2

KO: Rob Bironas 2

PR/KR: Marc Mariani 83

Injury report

Bucs — Doubtful: DE Michael Bennett (groin). Questionable: LB Adam Hayward (foot), S Tanard Jackson (hamstring), LB Dekoda Watson (groin). Probable: DT Albert Haynesworth (knee), DT Brian Price (forearm), T Jeremy Trueblood (knee).

TITANS — Out: LB Barrett Ruud (groin). Questionable: DE Karl Klug (knee), LB Colin McCarthy (knee), DE Derrick Morgan (ankle), T Michael Roos (groin), T David Stewart (calf). Probable: G Eugene Amano (hip), K Rob Bironas (back), QB Matt Hasselbeck (right elbow).

Stat pack

1 p.m., LP Field, Nashville | TV/radio: Ch. 13; 620-AM, 103.5-FM | Line, O/U: Titans by 3½; 43

The Bucs came to life last week despite losing at the Packers. They rediscovered their offensive formula, letting LeGarrette Blount bludgeon the defense and Josh Freeman fling the football. This is a good matchup for Tampa Bay because Tennessee is a team it should be able to run against.

Titans' best offensive player

Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, right, was considered a complementary piece before the season. But with running back Chris Johnson's down season and star receiver Kenny Britt's season-ending injury, he has taken on a bigger role and responded.

Titans' best defensive player

Cornerback Cortland Finnegan, left, has been steady, as usual, this season, recording 59 tackles, team-high nine passes defensed, a sack and four tackles-for-loss. What the Titans do best

They are built like the Bucs, a team that runs first and uses opportunistic throws to achieve big plays. That's when Tennessee is at its best — when it plays as designed.

You can beat the Titans if …

You exploit their zone coverage. The Bucs haven't fared great against man-to-man coverage. But the Titans use mostly zone in their secondary, giving the Bucs a chance at some big passing plays.

The Bucs must avoid …

Allowing Pro Bowl running back Chris Johnson to get rolling. He has been held in check all season (3.2 yards per carry), but the Bucs have one of the league's most porous run defenses.

Prediction

Bucs 24, Titans 20

avg. Rushing yards

avg. passing yards

avg. total yards

avg. Rushing yards allowed

avg. passing yards allowed

avg. total yards allowed

Bucs

Titans

99.6 (22nd)

77.3 (32nd)

133.5 (27th)

124.3 (22nd)

265.4 (29th)

233.4 (16th)

243.8 (12th)

239.0 (13th)

398.9 (31st)

357.7 (18th)

343.4 (15th)

316.3 (21st)

By Matt Baker, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

3 final thoughts on Sunlake's season

1. The Seahawks' playoff run was one of the best stories in the Tampa Bay area. The young program had a 98-yard, fourth-quarter drive to win at Ocala Vanguard in the opener and then had a chance to tie Gainesville late. It has been a quick rise from 1-19 to being one score from a region final.

2. QB Cameron Stoltz was one of the season's breakout players. He entered the year as a question mark, the first-year starter trying to replace Jacob Jackson. Stoltz was just as good as his predecessor. He threw for 26 touchdowns and showed poise in the clutch all season.

3. Expect Sunlake to become a Pasco County power. Coach Bill Browning has built the program for sustained success, with a commitment to the weight room, a tough offensive line and a stingy defense. Sunlake loses an impressive senior class, but Browning's strategy will lead to new stars in 2012.

Audibles

"This is going to hurt tonight. But we just made too many mistakes." — Bill Browning, Sunlake coach, after two of Gainesville's three TDs came off of turnovers in the Seahawks' 21-14 loss

"Eighth-and-a-half-grader, make it." — Tom McHugh, Pasco coach, to freshman kicker Brandon Ray before his 21-yard field goal beat Citra North Marion 31-28

By the numbers

13 wins in Sunlake's first four seasons

10 wins for Sunlake this season

30 Total touchdowns by Sunlake's star QB Jacob Jackson last fall

29 TDs by Seahawks QB Cameron Stoltz this fall

3 First downs allowed by Pasco in the second half against Citra North Marion

15.6 Average yards per touch by Pasco's Janarion Grant against the Colts

0 Number of home playoff losses by Citra North Marion before Friday

3 final thoughts on Pasco-North Marion

1. Janarion Grant was the best player on the field. The junior athlete had more than 200 total yards in the 31-28 win. He sped for a 67-yard touchdown in the first quarter to keep Pasco in the game and ripped off a 54-yard rush at the end of the half to set up a field goal. "I do things unexpectedly," Grant said. After a two-score playoff game in the playoff opener, no one should doubt Grant. On a field with at least seven Division-I prospects, Grant was the most impressive.

2. Pasco is a legitimate state title contender. Forget the easy regular-season schedule. The Pirates have shown they can win close playoff games after two victories by a combined 10 points. Pasco did it with special teams Friday with a winning field goal by freshman Brandon Ray and with an offense that struggled early but came through late. Handing powerhouse Citra North Marion its first home playoff loss should silence any remaining critics.

3. Don't overlook Pasco's defense. North Marion's offense was electric early, scoring 21 points in the first quarter but only seven after that. The Colts had 12 first downs in the first half but only three in the final two quarters. When Pasco needed a stop, the Pirates forced a three-and-out to get their offense the ball with 3:59 left and a chance to win the game.

Up next

Jesuit (11-1) at Pasco (12-0)

The Pirates can advance to their first state semifinal since 2008 with a win over Tommy Eveld and the Tigers. It's a rematch of the 1992 state title game.

Game balls

WR Eddie Burgos, Sunlake: The junior speedster caught a tipped pass for a touchdown against Gainesville. It echoed his deflected catch for a score against Land O'Lakes. He will be a key part of the Seahawks again next fall.

ATH Janarion Grant, Pasco: Another night, another 200-yard game. Grant had 219 total yards (167 rushing, 52 receiving), a highlight-reel 67-yard TD rush and a two-point conversion.

K Brandon Ray, Pasco: His 21-yard field goal as time expired gave the Pirates a 31-28 victory at Citra North Marion. Ray also booted a 22-yarder at the end of the first half and a 46-yard kick. Not bad for a freshman.

Sunlake's defense: The Seahawks held Gainesville to only one offensive score in a 21-14 loss to the Hurricanes. Sunlake's defense never allowed more than 21 points in a game all season.

Times wires
Saturday, November 26, 2011

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Vikings running back Adrian Peterson was ruled out of today's game because of a sprained left ankle.

The Vikings announced Saturday that he had been downgraded from doubtful to out and did not travel with the team to Atlanta. This will be only the fourth game in Peterson's five-year career that he will miss.

Toby Gerhart will be the primary runner in Peterson's place.

Vick reportedly out: Eagles quarterback Michael Vick will miss his second game because of broken ribs, the NFL Network reported. That leaves Vince Young as the starter. The Eagles hope Vick can return Thursday against the Seahawks. The NFL Network also reported that Eagles receiver Jeremy Maclin will miss his second game with a hamstring injury.

Chiefs: Kyle Orton, claimed on waivers last week, will be the third-string quarterback today, the Kansas City Star reported. Rookie Ricky Stanzi will back up Tyler Palko.

Giants: Running back Ahmad Bradshaw will sit due to a lingering foot injury. Also, former Bucs receiver Michael Clayton went on injured reserve with a torn meniscus in his knee. He had appeared in five games, mostly on special teams.

Jaguars: The local blackout was lifted, though the team did not say if it sold the remaining tickets or bought them at a 66 percent discount (as allowed by NFL rules). It already gave away 6,000 tickets to members of the military.

By Rodney Page and Bob Putnam, Times Staff Writers
Saturday, November 26, 2011

And then there were two. Admiral Farragut and East Lake are the only two Pinellas County teams remaining in the playoffs after both beat district rivals. The Blue Jackets knocked off Canterbury 38-24 and the Eagles rallied to beat Palm Harbor University 33-26. After playing county opponents, both teams will get an even tougher matchup this week. Admiral Farragut hosts defending state champion Belle Glades Glades Day in the Class 2A state semifinals and East Lake hosts defending state finalist Plant in the 8A region final. Here is the recap from the second round of the playoffs:

1. Teams that run the ball win in the playoffs

As the season winds down and the weather gets cooler, the stock of the running back rises. And the teams that give their running backs a steady diet of handoffs in the playoffs usually win. In two playoff games, Admiral Farragut has rushed for a combined 950 yards and scored seven touchdowns on the ground. The Blue Jackets have found a nice combination with Rayshawn Jenkins and Todd Macon, who combined for more than 350 yards rushing in a win over Canterbury. East Lake also has been solid on the ground with the sturdy running of Tyler Lane, who had his seventh straight 100-yard rushing game against Palm Harbor University and helped the Eagles win their seventh straight game.

2. East Lake can now win close games

The knock on the Eagles in the past has been their inability to come through in tight games. In the past seven seasons, East Lake was 5-12 in games decided by seven points or fewer. That has changed this season. After beating Palm Harbor University 33-26, the Eagles are 4-1 in games decided by seven points or fewer. East Lake has been able to do it thanks to a balanced offense and the big-play capabilities of receiver Artavis Scott.

3. Canterbury showed it is more than just Brent O'Neal

The Crusaders received a blow when O'Neal, their workhorse running back, was limited on offense because of a separated shoulder sustained in practice two weeks ago. O'Neal, who gained more than 2,000 total yards and had more than 30 touchdowns this season, was held to minus-1 yard on four carries. If he was healthy, the Crusaders would have been able to run the ball and would have had a better chance to win. But they didn't wilt. Canterbury still was able to score and tied the game at 14-all in the second quarter after quarterback Jake Holsinger threw his second touchdown pass of the night to DaSean Thomas.

4. Billy Pavlock deserves consideration for player of the year

Palm Harbor University has gone through a remarkable transformation this season, posting a winning season for the second time in school history and making the playoffs for the first time. Pavlock has been a big part of that resurgence. He had at least one rushing touchdown in 11 of 12 games this season. Against East Lake, he had 159 yards passing, 115 rushing and scored three touchdowns, including a 75-yard run in the fourth quarter that tied the game. He also had an interception. His play nearly got the Hurricanes into the third round of the playoffs.

Player of the week

RB Tyler Lane, East Lake: Lane was crazy good in a thrilling 33-26 win over Palm Harbor University. He carried the ball 27 times for 226 yards and four touchdowns. Every touchdown was a big one in the seesaw game. He scored the winner on a 2-yard plunge with 16 seconds remaining. But he also had touchdown runs of 26, 3 and 5 yards. The Hurricanes may have shut down other key players for East Lake, but they had no answer for Lane. East Lake will need that kind of effort from Lane next week against Plant in the region final.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Senior quarterback Zach Collaros broke his right ankle Nov. 12. Then Cincinnati's hopes of a Big East title dimmed with two straight losses. Isaiah Pead and Munchie Legaux got it back on track.

Pead scored two touchdowns and Legaux threw two in Saturday's 30-13 win over Syracuse.

"This was a great, great win, a great team win," Bearcats coach Butch Jones said. "Legaux … managed the offense. And I can't say enough about the performance of (Pead)."

With Cincinnati up 23-13 early in the fourth, Pead turned a short pass into a 69-yard touchdown.

In a 20-3 loss at Rutgers last week, Cincinnati had a season-low 225 yards. Saturday, Pead caught nine passes for 112 yards and returned two punts for 54 and Legaux went 13-of-22 for 169 yards, no sacks and no turnovers.

"I was much more comfortable," Legaux said. "Just the weekly experience helped me a lot."

The Orange have lost four in a row and must win next week to become bowl eligible.

UConn 40, Rutgers 22: Lyle McCombs and Scott McCummings ran for two touchdowns as the host Huskies eliminated the Knights from title contention. "We particularly don't like Rutgers," said McCombs, whose 4-yard run early in the third made it 31-10. "We weren't going to let them get a Big East title in this stadium." The Huskies allowed 26 rushing yards and recorded six sacks.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

Vikings (2-8) at Falcons (6-4)

1 p.m.

Falcons by 9½, 44

Falcons QB Matt Ryan has averaged 314 yards and tossed six touchdowns over his past three games. Meanwhile, Atlanta has won four of its past five, the lone loss coming against the NFC South-leading Saints when coach Mike Smith, above, took that fourth-down gamble in overtime. The Falcons have little margin for error in their playoff push with another game against the Saints and a game at Houston looming. The Vikings are playing for next season.

Falcons 27, Vikings 17

Cardinals (3-7) at Rams (2-8)

1 p.m.

Rams by 2½, 39½

This is not as much a stat as an indictment. After the NFC West-leading 49ers, the other members of the division — including the Cardinals and Rams — have a combined nine victories. That's the same as the 49ers themselves. Here, two of those also-rans get together in a matchup a handful of TV viewers in the country will be forced to watch. The Cardinals must get something out of RB Beanie Wells, above. That's possible against the league-worst run defense.

Cardinals 21, Rams 17

Panthers (2-8) at Colts (0-10)

1 p.m.

Panthers by 3½, 46

The Panthers continue to show they're shaky on defense. However, this matchup works in their favor because of the Colts' inability to — well — score. Indianapolis is averaging just 13.1 points and ranks 31st in total yards. Its defense is just as poor, so Panthers QB Cam Newton, above, could be a fantasy football dream. If Carolina wants to finish strong, it needs to win this one. Its six remaining games include contests against the Falcons, Texans and Saints.

Panthers 28, Colts 20

Bills (5-5) at Jets (5-5)

1 p.m., Ch. 10

Jets by 9½, 42

Which of these clubs had the more disappointing loss last week? Was it the Bills getting blasted at Miami, or the Jets falling apart at Denver? Either way, both teams are fading — fast. But the Bills seem to be plummeting faster. Their defense appears to have hit a wall, unable to get stops in recent games against the Jets, Cowboys and Dolphins while giving up 106 points. Jets QB Mark Sanchez, above, is struggling, but coach Rex Ryan has pledged unequivocal support.

Jets 24, Bills 17

Browns (4-6) at Bengals (6-4)

1 p.m.

Bengals by 7½, 37½

It has been a frustrating two weeks in Cincinnati with seven-point losses to AFC North rivals Pittsburgh and Baltimore. That means the Bengals must win to keep pace. Fortunately for them, they play a team today that seems disinterested in scoring. The Browns have averaged 12.7 points over the past three weeks and now face the formidable Bengals defense. On offense, Bengals star rookie WR A.J. Green, above, seems on track to return from a knee injury.

Bengals 26, Browns 13

Texans (7-3) at Jaguars (3-7)

1 p.m.

Texans by 6½, 37

Just as the Texans were beginning to widen their lead in the AFC South, they learned the devastating news that QB Matt Schaub is out for the rest of the season with a broken foot courtesy of Bucs DT Albert Haynesworth. But not all is lost. Though Matt Leinart, above, is Houston's starter — not a comforting thought — the construction of this team gives him a chance. The potent running game coupled with a dominant defense makes Leinart's job manageable.

Texans 23, Jaguars 17

Redskins (3-7) at Seahawks (4-6)

4 p.m.

Seahawks by 3½, 37½

The Seahawks have quietly beaten the Giants and Ravens this season, then blew out the struggling Rams last week. The point is this is a very winnable game for coach Pete Carroll, above, and his team, who aren't in contention for the NFC West title they won last season but still can salvage something out of 2011. Keep an eye on RB Marshawn Lynch, who has broken out recently. He has run for 332 yards over his past three games.

Seahawks 23, Redskins 20

Bears (7-3) at Raiders (6-4)

4 p.m.

Raiders by3½, 41½

QB Jay Cutler's injury couldn't have come at a worse time for Chicago. The Raiders, meanwhile, should count their blessings. After all, they get to face Caleb Hanie, above, which can't hurt their playoff chances. The question here is if — or how quickly — the Bears fade without Cutler. RB Matt Forte is suddenly less unstoppable because the Raiders, led by tackles Tommy Kelly and Desmond Bryant, can focus mostly on him.

Raiders 24, Bears 17

Patriots (7-4) at Eagles (4-6)

4:15 p.m.

Patriots by 3½, 50½

Teams never seem to know what to expect when they travel to Philadelphia these days. You could wind up like the Giants last week (17-10 losers) or pull off an upset like the lowly Cardinals did two weeks ago. As it relates to this game, the Eagles — whether with Vince Young, above, or Michael Vick at quarterback — are likely to make some downfield plays. But the Patriots, with QB Tom Brady, are sure to make a few of their own.

Patriots 31, Eagles 24

Broncos (5-5) at Chargers (4-6)

4:15 p.m., Ch. 10

Chargers by 5½, 41½

There's a lot to admire about Denver QB Tim Tebow, above. He is unconventional, fearless, clutch and humble. What's not to like? But this can't and won't continue. Yes, Chargers QB Phillip Rivers is struggling — in comparison with previous seasons, at least. But Tebow hasn't beaten a top-flight quarterback during his 4-1 stint as a starter, and that's probably the difference here. Watch for Broncos rookie LB Von Miller, who has 9½ sacks.

Chargers 26, Broncos 17

Steelers (7-4) at Chiefs (4-6)

8:20 p.m., Ch. 8

Steelers by 10½, 40

The Chiefs know they're in trouble. How else to explain jumping on QB Kyle Orton on the waiver wire last week? After seeing Tyler Palko, above, start his first game in place of injured Matt Cassel, a blowout against the Patriots, they knew they had to act. But Orton isn't quite ready to take the reins, so Palko goes from facing Tom Brady to facing Ben Roethlisberger. The Steelers need a win in order to keep pace with the Ravens.

Steelers 28, Chiefs 13

Giants (6-4) at Saints (7-3)

8:30 p.m. Monday, ESPN

Saints by 7, 51

The Giants showed a susceptibility to the deep ball against the Eagles last week. And guess what? They're going to see a few Monday. Their best chance is to get consistent heat on QB Drew Brees, above. It has worked for a few teams, including the Bucs, making Brees a bit less efficient. But the Giants also have to slow RB Darren Sproles and TE Jimmy Graham and WR Marques Colston and — you get the point.

Saints 24, Giants 20

By Joe Smith, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 26, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — Rays hitting coach Derek Shelton thoroughly enjoyed soaking in the Taiwanese culture this month during the 2011 Taiwan All-Star Series, when he joined a group of major-league stars for a five-game swing.

Shelton took a tour to a few memorials, watched the changing of the guards and was surprised by all the chanting/drumming by fans during at-bats. But Shelton did not experience with the players one authentic local tradition.

"I did not drink the snake blood," he said.

While some players, including reliever LaTroy Hawkins, sampled the shots (which are believed by some to have special healing powers), Shelton passed. But he had a blast, saying his favorite part was getting to spend the entire trip with his dad, Ron.

"We were able to do all the culture stuff together and hang out together," Shelton said.

Shelton was invited to join a coaching staff that included Giants manager Bruce Bochy, though he acknowledged there wasn't a lot of instruction going on, just getting hitters such as Yankees stars Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson ready for the exhibitions. (The MLB team won all five games against the Chinese Taipei national team.)

Shelton said the fans, who were knowledgeable and respectful, greeted them at a lot of their stops in and around the cities. "They definitely embraced major-league baseball," he said.

In his down time, Shelton was amazed to watch the changing of the guards at one of the temples. "One soldier had sweat dripping off his nose and didn't blink — his concentration was unbelievable," Shelton said.

The atmosphere at the games was also unique, with a PA announcer leading fans in chants (in Mandarin, of course). Fans also banged on drums and used thundersticks. During MLB games, when hitters are hitting, "there's no noise," Shelton said. "It was more similar to an NBA game where it was constant action."

As with the snake blood, Shelton didn't go too far out of his comfort zone when it came to cuisine, saying there were a lot of McDonald's, along with American fare in the clubhouse.

"I'm not an adventurous food eater — I don't eat any seafood to begin with," Shelton said. "But the food was definitely an interesting option for those guys that did try it."

RAYS RUMBLINGS: Rays free agent 1B Casey Kotchman, INF Sean Rodriguez and OF Matt Joyce will join Don Zimmer, Tom Foley, Jim Hickey, Shelton, Dave Martinez and Rays TV broadcaster DeWayne Staats on Monday night for a fundraiser to benefit Clearwater for Youth at the Island Way Grill. The event is sold out. … The Rays' signing of free agent C Jose Molina is expected to be officially announced this week, and he won't have to go far, considering he has a North Tampa home. … RHP Alex Cobb, for one, is in favor of the HGH testing implemented in the new collective bargaining agreement. "I think it's worth it. Why not? Make sure everybody has the equal playing field so to speak, and just knock out all the questions."

Joe Smith can be reached at joesmith@sptimes.com.