American Idol - Top 9

It's I-Tunes Top 100 Downloaded Songs night on "American Idol" Tuesday night. Tops of the night are Adam Lambert, who is by far winning this competition and Kris Allen.

Lambert rocked the house with "Play that Funky Music" while Kris saved his spot with a roxy rendition of "Ain't No Sunshine."

My bottom 3 are:

Megan Joy (she's should be gone!)
Matt Giroud (another bad song choice)
Anoop Desai (after channeling his inner Michael Jackson)

Wednesday's results show comes up at 9pm, ET. David Cook and Lady GaGa is in da House!

Peace!

Peter King: Broncos to trade Cutler before draft

Listen up Mike Tannenbaum and the NY Jets!

Peter King of SI reports tonight that the Broncos will indeed trade disgruntled quarterback Jay Cutler before the April NFL Draft.

You say you're interested NY, now it's time to pony it up!

CBS sets Final Four Coverage

CBS is in full Final Four mode this weekend as its one of the greatest days in sport Saturday! Here's the full coverage details from our friends at CBS -

CBS SPORTS’ ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR DRIVES INTO THE MOTOR CITY FOR NETWORK’S 28th CONSECUTIVE YEAR OF EXCLUSIVE COVERAGE OF NCAA MEN'S FINAL FOUR ON SATURDAY, APRIL 4

North Carolina, Connecticut, Michigan State and Villanova Vie for College Basketball's National Championship

Clark Kellogg CBS Sports’ Lead Analyst Calls His First Final Four and Championship Game

North Carolina, Connecticut, Michigan State and Villanova are on the road to Detroit as CBS Sports culminates its 28th consecutive year as exclusive network broadcaster of the 2009 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship and Final Four with live coverage of the national semi-final games on Saturday, April 4 (6:00-11:00 PM, ET) and the National Championship game on Monday, April 6 (9:00 PM, ET-conclusion) from Ford Field.

Saturday’s Final Four features Connecticut versus Michigan State, with tip-off scheduled for 6:07 PM, ET. Forty minutes after the game concludes North Carolina takes on Villanova to determine the final participant in Monday night's championship game. For the first time in 28 years, CBS Sports’ basketball coverage has a new lead analyst as Clark Kellogg becomes only the second analyst in CBS Sports history to call the Final Four and Championship games. Kellogg teams with lead play-by-play announcer Jim Nantz, who is covering his 24th Final Four.

CBS Sports’ coverage tips off on Saturday with THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR®: OUTSIDE THE GAMES (3:30-4:00 PM, ET). Seth Davis hosts as CBS Sports examines the impact the current economic crisis is having on higher education, both in the classroom and on the playing field. The show also explores commercialism in college sports. The show features interviews with NCAA President Myles Brand, SEC Commissioner Mike Slive, Mountain West Commissioner Craig Thompson and University Presidents, Chancellors and Athletics Directors from a variety of schools.

Greg Gumbel, Greg Anthony and Davis host THE FINAL FOUR SHOW (4:00-6:00 PM, ET) featuring tournament highlights, analysis of the four participants and interviews with coaches and players. Contributing to the program are Dick Enberg and Tracy Wolfson. Included in the broadcast are features on:

* 30th Anniversary of the Indiana State/ Michigan State 1979 NCAA Championship Game - CBS Sports take an intimate look back at the 1979 NCAA Championship Game between Indiana State and Michigan State, one of the most historic games in NCAA history. Players from both teams reflect on the 1979 season and the "Game that changed the Game," and their lives over the last 30 years. The piece features interviews with Earvin "Magic" Johnson and Larry Bird reminiscing about their memories and the lasting impact of the 1979 NCAA Championship. The feature is narrated by CBS Sports’ Dick Enberg who was the play-by-play announcer for the game. Deb Boulac produces.

* Spirit of the Game - In 2006, Jason McElwain, an autistic boy from Rochester,New York, and team manager of his high school basketball team, captured the nation by not only getting to play in his team's final regular-season home game, but scoring 20 points in under four minutes. Three years later, Jason’s story has inspired two other boys to follow in his footsteps, Josh Titus, a senior at Edward Little High School in Auburn, Maine who is autistic, and 20 miles down the road in Portland, Maine, Patrick Thibodeau, who has Down syndrome attends Greely High School. CBS Sports tells the stories of Josh and Patrick, as they were both given the opportunity to play in their teams’ final home games. Neither disappointed their teammates. Josh scored nine points with two rebounds, and Patrick hit two three pointers, one right before the end of game buzzer. In the aftermath of these incredible events, both boys were given the Spirit of the Game Awards by the Maine Association of Basketball coaches, which were presented by Jason, uniting these three incredible stories on one magical night. Actor Joe Mantegna narrates and Pete Radovich, Jr. produces.

* Tyler Hansbrough - Tyler Hansbrough has spent the past four years at North Carolina. During that time, his game and his on-court demeanor have become legendary. Tyler credits his older brother Greg with his drive and intensity. When Tyler was five, Greg, at the age of seven was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor. After successful surgery the Hansbrough’s were told Greg would most likely never walk again. Tyler watched his older brother push himself everyday, learning to talk again and eventually leaving his wheelchair and learning to walk. It is that adversity that shaped Tyler into the player he is today. Deb Gelman produces.

* A.J. Price - Senior guard A.J. Price has endured a tremendous amount of adversity throughout his tenure at the University of Connecticut. Price overcame a brain hemorrhage as a freshman, and a suspension during his sophomore season for stealing and re-selling laptops. During his junior year he tore his ACL less than 10 minutes into the Huskies first-round NCAA Tournament game. Now as a senior, Price explains how he has overcome three years of adversity to lead his team to the Final Four. Ironically, 30 years ago, Price's father, Tony, led his 1979 Penn team to the Final Four to play Michigan State. Saturday, A.J. leads his Huskies as they take on Michigan State at the Final Four. Jeff St. Arromand produces.

* Scottie Reynolds - It has been a long journey for Scottie Reynolds to Villanova. The standout guard was named the 2009 NCAA East Regional Most Outstanding Player and hit the game-winning shot against Pittsburgh to put the Wildcats in the Final Four As in infant he was put up for adoption by his 18 year-old birth mother and adopted by Rick and Pam Reynolds. He spent his youth in Virginia and Illinois. As a McDonald’s High School All-American, he originally signed a letter of intent to attend Oklahoma University but was released from that obligation when head coach Kelvin Sampson accepted a position at Indiana University in April 2006. Three years later, Reynolds has a chance to lead Villanova to their second NCAA Championship. Alanna Campbell produces.

* Willie Johnson - Willie Johnson grew up in Morehouse Parish, La. where he was taught many positive life lessons at Mr. Lucky’s house, a commonplace for himself and other neighborhood kids to go play and socialize in a safe and secure environment. Willie took those lessons with him to Detroit, where he and his wife, Norma, raised their five children. In a time when drug dealers and danger ruled the Detroit streets, Willie built a full basketball court in his yard to give the local children sanctuary. Twenty-eight years later, the basketball court has proven to be a haven for generations of Detroit’s own. Every child is welcome, as long as they follow the rules: no profanity, no bad grades and no fighting. Recognizing his efforts, the city of Detroit, along with the Detroit Pistons, recently updated the court in an effort to prolong the message that Willie has dedicated his life to spread. Pete Radovich, Jr. produces.

* Michigan State Homecoming – When the NCAA announced the 2009 NCAA Final Four would be held in Detroit, it became the dream and goal of Tom Izzo and his Michigan State Spartans to play in this year’s Final Four. Over the last 11 seasons, Izzo has led Michigan State to five Final Fours and a National Championship in 2000. No other Final Four may mean more to a team, a school, and a city than the one being played on Saturday, as the Michigan community, in the midst of the recession, rallies around the Spartans. Could this year’s Spartan team find some magic 30 years after their first national championship? Sarah Rinaldi produces.

PRELUDE TO A CHAMPIONSHIP with Gumbel, Anthony and Davis precedes Monday evening’s National Championship game.

CBS SPORTS 2009 NCAA BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP BROADCAST SCHEDULE

Sat., April 4
3:30-4:00 PM THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR
“Outside the Games”

4:00-6:00 PM THE FINAL FOUR SHOW

6:00-11:00 PM NCAA MEN’S FINAL FOUR
Ford Field - Detroit, Mich.

Mon., April 6
9:00-11:30 PM PRELUDE TO A CHAMPIONSHIP
NCAA MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
Ford Field - Detroit, Mich.

KJ and PJ visit TNT for NBA coverage

From TNT Sports -

Three-Time NBA All-Star and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson Visits the NBA on TNT Studio

Former NBA head coach P.J. Carlesimo joins the network as game analyst

The NBA on TNT heads down the stretch of the regular season with another doubleheader on Thursday, April 2. The night’s action gets underway with NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com with Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst) and Kenny Smith (analyst). The pre-game show will feature a visit from former NBA All-Star and current Mayor of Sacramento Kevin Johnson. Johnson spent 12 seasons in the league and, alongside Barkley, led the Phoenix Suns to the 1993 NBA Finals.

Following the pre-game show, LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers will take on Gilbert Arenas and the Washington Wizards at 8 p.m. ET. Marv Albert (play-by-play) will call the game with analysts Mike Fratello and Reggie Miller and David Aldridge reporting. The second game of the night will feature Carmelo Anthony and the Denver Nuggets hosting Deron Williams and the Utah Jazz at 10:30 p.m. ET. Calling the action will be former NBA head coach P.J. Carlesimo alongside play-by-play announcer Kevin Harlan with Marty Snider reporting. Carlesimo will also serve as a game analyst for TNT during the network’s ’40 Games in 40 Nights’ NBA Playoffs coverage. The Emmy® award-winning studio show Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai with Johnson (host), Barkley (analyst) and Smith (analyst) will recap the games.

Exclusive content, analysis from TNT announcers and replays of Inside the NBA are available on TNT OverTime on NBA.com. The broadband channel gives fans the inside scoop on players, coaches and storylines taking place around the league seven days a week. Check out the NBA on TNT pages on MySpace (http://www.myspace.com/nbaontnt) and Facebook (http://www.facebook.com) to see the latest NBA on TNT schedule, news updates and special features from TNT announcers.

TNT NBA THURSDAY SCHEDULE:
Thu., April 2
8 p.m. NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst) and Kenny Smith (analyst)

8:15 p.m. Cleveland Cavaliers @ Washington Wizards
Announcers: Marv Albert (play-by-play), Mike Fratello (analyst), Reggie Miller (analyst) and David Aldridge (reporter)

10:30 p.m. Utah Jazz @ Denver Nuggets
Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play), P.J. Carlesimo (analyst) and Marty Snider (reporter)

Post-game Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst) and Kenny Smith (analyst)

NBA ON TNT UPCOMING SCHEDULE:
Thu., April 9
8 p.m. NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst) and Kenny Smith (analyst)

8:15 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers @ Chicago Bulls
Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play), Doug Collins (analyst) and Craig Sager (reporter)

10:30 p.m. Denver Nuggets @ Los Angeles Lakers
Announcers: Marv Albert (play-by-play), Mike Fratello (analyst), Reggie Miller (analyst) and Cheryl Miller (reporter)

Post-game Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst) and Kenny Smith (analyst)

Tue., April 14
8 p.m. NBA Tip-Off presented by AutoTrader.com
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst), Kenny Smith (analyst) and Chris Webber (analyst)

8:15 p.m. Boston Celtics @ Philadelphia 76ers
Announcers: Marv Albert (play-by-play), Mike Fratello (analyst), Reggie Miller (analyst) and Cheryl Miller (reporter)

10:30 p.m. Utah Jazz @ Los Angeles Lakers
Announcers: Kevin Harlan (play-by-play), Doug Collins (analyst) and Craig Sager (reporter)

Post-game Inside the NBA presented by Hyundai
Ernie Johnson (host), Charles Barkley (analyst), Kenny Smith (analyst) and Chris Webber (analyst)

On the road to Wrestlemania 25 - Wrestlemania 20

We're back in New York City as Wrestlemania hits 20 years! And we get the comings and goings of some big names. Coming back is the Rock. Coming to his first Wrestlemania is John Cena. Coming into his first WWE World Title is Chris Benoit. Going are Brock Lesnar and Bill Goldberg via a Stone Cold stunner!

Here's your videos from the WWE and You Tube -

Highlights



Triple H vs. HBK vs. Chris Benoit



Christian vs. Chris Jericho (Trish Status turns heel!)



Big Show vs. John Cena



Playboy Evening Gown Match



Brock Lesnar vs. Goldberg



Evolution vs. Rock and Sock Connection



The full card is -

* - John Cena defeated The Big Show to win the WWE United States Championship
* - Rob Van Dam and Booker T defeated Garrison Cade and Mark Jindrak, The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray and D-Von) and La Résistance (René Duprée and Rob Conway) in a Fatal Four-Way match to retain the World Tag Team Championship
* - Christian defeated Chris Jericho
* - Evolution (Randy Orton, Batista and Ric Flair) defeated The Rock 'n' Sock Connection (The Rock and Mick Foley)
* - Torrie Wilson and Sable defeated Stacy Keibler and Miss Jackie in a Playboy Evening Gown match
* - Chavo Guerrero defeated Último Dragón, Shannon Moore, Jamie Noble, Funaki, Nunzio, Billy Kidman, Rey Mysterio, Tajiri, and Akio in a Cruiserweight Open for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship
* - Goldberg defeated Brock Lesnar with special guest referee Steve Austin
* - Rikishi and Scotty 2 Hotty defeated The World's Greatest Tag Team (Charlie Haas and Shelton Benjamin), The Basham Brothers (Danny and Doug) and The APA (Bradshaw and Faarooq) in a Fatal Four-Way match for the WWE Tag Team Championship
* - Victoria defeated Molly Holly Hair vs. Title match for the WWE Women's Championship
* - Eddie Guerrero defeated Kurt Angle to retain the WWE Championship
* - The Undertaker (with Paul Bearer) defeated Kane
* - Chris Benoit defeated Triple H and Shawn Michaels in a Triple Threat match to win the World Heavyweight Championship

Up next: Wrestlemania 21 is back in LA with Cena/JBL, Triple H/Batista, the first ever Money in the Bank match that launched Edge's success and a Sumo match between Big Show and Akebono.

Tazz leaves WWE

After calling Smackdown last night at the Dallas tapings, Tazz reportedly has left the WWE according to PW Insider.

Tazz' contract runs out today and apparently has decided to leave. Can we see a JR/King pairing for the Smackdown matches at Wrestlemania? Or could this lead to JBL, who could be retiring this Sunday in Houston, back to the announce team.

Stay tuned.

Friday Night Lights back for 2 more years, David Ortiz embraces life without Manny, Vince McMahon returns to RAW

Tuesday's news and notes for you -

* - The Dunkin Donuts Center, despite it's millions in renovations, is not doing as well as expected (ProJo.com).

* - DirecTV and NBC have renewed "Friday Night Lights" for another two years (USA Today).

* - Gerry Callahan of the Boston Herald thinks the Celtics won't go far without a healthy Kevin Garnett. Really! Seriously! Tomorrrow's column tells us the Red Sox won't win a World Championship without winning the World Series (Boston Herald).

* - David Ortiz wants to show that he can succeed without Manny Ramirez (Boston Herald).

* - John Calipari wants a good night's sleep before accepting the Kentucky job (ESPN.com).

* - Vegas has made UNC the prohibitive favorite at the Final Four in Detroit (Fox Sports.com).

* - Vince and Shane McMahon returned to RAW last night for the WWE's last Monday Night before Wrestlemania. Check it out -



* - The Sun-Times Media Group has filed for bankruptcy (Boson Herald/AP).

* - Broncos QB Jay Cutler has already forfeited $100,000 in missing workouts in Denver. See what being a prima donna will get you (Denver Post).

* - "Dancing with the Stars" sees Steve Wozniak in the bottom rung with a 12 out of 30. Steve-O is a close 2nd to last with 15/30 (EW Online)

* - Finally, the theme to tonight's "American Idol" will have the top 9 singing to the Top 100 ITunes Downloads.

Back with more later!

"My Boys" and "Trust Me" tonight on TBS/TNT

Don't forget, "My Boys" is back tonight. You can check out our preview as well as the new Facebook page for the show. Tonight's season premiere comes your way at 10:30pm, ET/PT on TBS. Here's a sneak peek from our friends at TBS -



Meanwhile, over on TNT starting at 9pm, ET, it's a double-dip of another TCN fav - "Trust Me." At 9pm in "Thanks, I Needed That," Conner does a tribue for Tony's birthday and uncovers some juicy gossip while the group goes after the Rolling Rock campaign.

Then at 10pm, "Norming" brings us Mason on a tirade and Sarah trying to move forward in a new relationship but taking two steps back with her ex. We apologize for the Paula Abdul reference ahead of time!



Enjoy!

On the road to Wrestlemania 25 - Wrestlemania 19

We're almost there! It's Wrestlemania 19 today as we continue on the road to Wrestlemania 25 this Sunday in Houston!

We're outdoors in Seattle at Safeco Field! It's Stone Cold vs. the Rock in Steve Austin's last official match in the WWE. It's Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar and his death-defying F5 and botched shooting star press in the main event. Plus, we get Vince vs. Hulk as McMahon takes on Hogan in a Street Fight and it's Limp Bizkit doing the Undertaker's them live.

Here are your videos courtesy of the WWE and You Tube -

Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. The Rock



Kurt Angle vs. Brock Lesnar



Limp Bizkit LIVE



Shawn Michaels vs. Chris Jericho



Hulk Hogan vs. Vince McMahon



Your entire card looks like this -

* - On Heat: Lance Storm and Chief Morley defeated Kane and Rob Van Dam for the World Tag Team Championship
* - Matt Hardy (with Shannon Moore) defeated Rey Mysterio to retain the WWE Cruiserweight Championship
* - The Undertaker defeated The Big Show and A-Train in a Handicap match
* - Trish Stratus defeated Victoria (with Steven Richards) and Jazz in a Triple Threat match to win the WWE Women's Championship
* - Team Angle (Shelton Benjamin and Charlie Haas) defeated Los Guerreros (Eddie and Chavo Guerrero) and Chris Benoit and Rhyno in a Triple Threat match to retain the WWE Tag Team Championship
* - Shawn Michaels defeated Chris Jericho
* - Stacy Keibler and Torrie Wilson fought the Miller Lite Catfight girls, Kitana Baker and Tanya Ballinger to a no contest in a Pillow fight
* - Triple H (with Ric Flair) defeated Booker T to retain the World Heavyweight Championship
* - Hulk Hogan defeated Vince McMahon in a Street Fight
* - The Rock defeated Steve Austin
* - Brock Lesnar defeated Kurt Angle to win the WWE Championship

Up next: Wrestlemania 20 back where it all started at MSG in New York!

UPDATE on cuts at NBC 10 - WJAR

Earlier today we told you about the cuts at NBC 10 (WJAR-TV) in Providence. If you missed it, you can view it right here.

Now, here's the update and the statement from NBC 10 from its website -

"NBC 10 continues to face unprecedented economic challenges during this prolonged recession. We continue to experience weak spending, order cancellations and significant non-returning business by our advertisers. In order to continue efforts to adapt our operations to changing customers, we are reducing our workforce. In December we announced that we were installing newsroom automation that would result in a reduction in force. That reduction in addition to another 12 positions will be effective today, March 30, 2009. Full-time employees have been offered severance packages."

“We very much regret having to take this step,“ said Lisa Churchville, General Manager of NBC10. “The regional economy continues to contract. Both businesses and consumers continue to reduce spending and our advertising revenues have been adversely affected at unprecedented levels. We must continue to find ways to align our costs with the available revenue.“

Betty-Jo Cugini, has been with NBC 10 News for 22 years. Under her leadership the station attained national recognition with the coveted Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence. Churchville noted, “The strength of our news team is a testament to her vision and journalistic integrity.“

“As chief meteorologist, Gary Ley led us through many generations of cutting edge forecast technology. He played a key role in selecting and grooming our current team and we are grateful to him for building StormTeam 10.“

“Kelley McGee’s last broadcast was last night and we thank her for 13 years as a consummate journalist. For the last several years she as been our education reporter and weekend anchor.“

Unfortunately, we know this won't be the last of the cuts in our industry here.

Mock Draft Monday - March 30th

Less than a month away to the NFL Draft! Tremendous difference of opionion now of whether the Lions will go QB at #1 or not. Today, we give you a few more Mocks to take a look at including our old buddy Frank Colye from Draft Insiders! He always had the inside scoop when he joined us on the Score all those years!

Remember, if you have a mock you want us to include here at "The Crowe's Nest," just let let us know by emailing us here!

Draft Insiders - Frank Coyle Mock Draft

1. Detroit - * Matthew Stafford - QB - Georgia
2. St. Louis - Aaron Curry - LB - Wake Forest
3. Kansas City - Jason Smith - OT - Baylor
4. Seattle - Brian Orakpo - DE - Texas
5. Cleveland - B.J. Raja - DT - Boston College
6. Cincinnati - * Michael Crabtree - WR - Texas Tech
7. Oakland - * Andre Smith - OT - Alabama
8. Jacksonville - * Jeremy Maclin - WR - Missouri
9. Green Bay - * Everette Brown - DE - Florida St
10. San Francisco - * Mark Sanchez - QB - Southern Cal
11. Buffalo - * Vontae Davis - CB - Illinois
12. Denver - Michael Johnson - DE Georgia Tech
13. Washington - Eugene Monroe - OT - Virginia
14. New Orleans - Rey Maualuga - LB - Southern Cal
15. Houston - * Percy Harvin - WR - Florida
16. San Diego - * Knowshon Moreno - RB - Georgia
17. NY Jets - Brian Cushing - LB - Southern Cal
18. Chicago - * Darrius Heyward-Bey - WR - Maryland
19. Tampa Bay - Malcolm Jenkins - CB - Ohio St.
20. Detroit (Dallas) - Tyson Jackson - DE - LSU
21. Philadelphia - * Chris Wells - RB- Ohio St
22. Minnesota - Alex Mack - OC - California
23. New England - * Aaron Maybin - LB - Penn St
24. Atlanta - * Hakeem Nicks - WR - North Carolina
25. Miami - Brandon Pettigrew - TE - Oklahoma St
26. Baltimore - Alphonso Smith - CB - Wake Forest
27. Indianapolis - * Eben Britton - OT - Arizona
28. Philadelphia (Carolina) - * Sean Smith - CB - Utah
29. New York Giants - James Laurinaitis - LB - Ohio St
30. Tennessee - Peria Jerry - DT - Mississippi
31. Arizona - Michael Oher - OT - Mississippi
32. Pittsburgh - Larry English - LB - Northern Illinois

* - Underclassmen

Fanhouse Mock Draft

1. Lions: Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
The Lions could justifiably go in three different directions, but the defense has not gotten enough quality attention in free agency or past drafts. Curry is a safe pick, and he's a good fit. (Previously: Matt Stafford)
-- Bruce Ciskie

2. Rams: Jason Smith, OT, Baylor
Orlando Pace is out and Alex Barron is just a stopgap at left tackle. (Previously: Jason Smith)
-- Matt Snyder

3. Chiefs: Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
Tony Gonzalez (staying put ... for now), Dwayne Bowe and Crabtree would give Matt Cassel three big-play weapons. (Previously: Aaron Curry)
-- Ryan Wilson

4. Seahawks: Eugene Monroe, OT, Virginia
Same as it ever was. (Previously: Eugene Monroe)
-- Will Brinson

5. Browns: Brian Orakpo, DE/LB, Texas
Kamerion Wimbley desperately needs the help. (Previously: Brian Orakpo)
-- RW

6. Bengals: B.J. Raji, NT, Boston College
Should help the Bengals' putrid defense. (Previously: Michael Crabtree)
-- BC

7. Raiders: Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Al Davis likes big, speedy wideouts, and Maclin's actually faster than Crabtree. (Previously: Jeremy Maclin)
-- Adam Gretz

8. Jaguars: Darrius Heyward-Bey, WR, Maryland
There's also a need at left tackle, but the team decided to go into 2009 without Reggie Williams and Matt Jones, and there's a gaping chasm at wideout. Of course, there's a chance DHB could be the next Troy Williamson, who, coincidentally, is already on the roster. (Previously: Michael Oher)
-- WB

9. Packers: Aaron Maybin, DE, Penn St.
You may have heard about the Packers going to a 3-4 defense. It's not going to work well unless they can find some people to rush the passer who aren't named "Kampman". (Previously: Everette Brown)
-- BC

10. 49ers: Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Tempted to take Stafford since he's fallen quite a bit -- very tempted, actually -- but I just don't think the 49ers invest top money into another quarterback after missing on Alex Smith so horribly. May not be the best thought process, but, eh, it's the 49ers. (Previously: Andre Smith)
-- AG

11. Bills: Everette Brown, DE, Florida St.
It's a recurring theme: as we wrote in Mock Draft 2.0 -- different guy, same story: Schobel's not getting any younger and it's hard to pass up a talent like Maybin here. (Previously: Tyson Jackson)
-- WB

12. Broncos Matthew Stafford, QB, Georgia
Jay who? (Previously: B.J. Raji)
-- Josh Alper

13. Redskins: Michael Oher, OT, Ole Miss
Jon Jansen vows to keep his job, but age and injuries are conspiring against him. (Previously: Rey Maualuga)
-- MS

14. Saints: Malcolm Jenkins, CB, Ohio St.
Fred Thomas isn't walking through that door. (Previously: Malcolm Jenkins)
-- Tom Mantzouranis

15. Texans: Clay Matthews, LB, USC
Because Texans commenters to my blog keep crushing me to take Matthews over Brian Cushing. Prefer a trade down though. (Previously: Brian Cushing)
-- Stephanie Stradley

16. Chargers: Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
You can never have too many pass rushers. (Previously: Aaron Maybin)
-- WB

17. Jets: Hakeem Nicks, WR, UNC
If they don't trade for Cutler, this could change to Josh Freeman or Mark Sanchez, but they need dynamic receivers either way. (Previously: Darrius Heyward-Bey)
-- JA

18. Bears: Vontae Davis, CB, Illinois
I would rather have DE, OL, or WR here, but no one at those positions makes sense value-wise. Plus, Nathan Vasher isn't reliable anymore. (Previously: Clay Matthews)
-- MS

19. Buccaneers: Peria Jerry, DT, Mississippi
Getting pressure in the backfield was a problem last season and Jerry would help anchor the middle of the defense. (Previously: Peria Jerry)
-- AG

20. Lions: Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
Just can't pass up Sanchez here. (Previously: James Laurinaitis)
-- BC

21. Eagles: Brandon Pettigrew, TE, Oklahoma St.
L.J. Smith wasn't re-signed and while Brent Celek was a pleasant surprise, Pettigrew is the best tight end in the draft. (Previously: Brandon Pettigrew)
-- RW

22. Vikings: Percy Harvin, WR, Florida
Harvin can play just about anywhere, and he's also willing to return kicks and punts. (Previously: Hakeem Nicks)
-- RW

23. Patriots: Larry English, LB, Northern Illinois
New England used free agency to add depth at cornerback and it will use the draft to replace Mike Vrabel. (Previously: Larry English)
-- AG

24. Falcons: Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
Jamal Anderson has been, to put it nicely, a disappointment. Maybe adding another pass-rushing end will help him break through. (Previously: Robert Ayers)
-- RW

25. Dolphins: Brian Cushing, LB, USC
Miami would love to get a wideout here, but with all the first-round talents off the board, Cushing isn't a bad consolation prize. (Previously: Percy Harvin)
-- AG

26. Ravens: Rey Maualuga, LB, USC
Like Miami, Baltimore could use a big-play wide receiver, but Maualuga can be groomed to replace Ray Lewis. (Previously: Alphonso Smith)
-- RW

27. Colts: Evander Hood, DT, Missouri
Hood fills an obvious need along the defensive line. (Previously: Brian Robiskie)
-- MS

28. Eagles: Knowshon Moreno, RB, Georgia
Philly would consider the first round a success if it could land Pettigrew and Moreno. (Previously: Knowshon Moreno)
-- RW

29. Giants: Kenny Britt, WR, Rutgers
With Plaxico Burress' legal issues still unresolved, the Giants could choose to draft a big down-the-field target for Eli Manning. (Previously: Kenny Britt)
-- BC

30. Titans: Darius Butler, CB, UConn
D.J. Moore had a poor pro day and Butler has more upside. (Previously: D.J. Moore)
-- RW

31. Cardinals: Beanie Wells, RB, Ohio State
Because Edgerrin James wants out of Arizona. (Previously: Beanie Wells)
-- MS

32. Steelers: Alphonso Smith, CB, Wake Forest
He's undersized, but physical. More importantly, he's a play-maker. (Previously: Alex Mack)
-- RW

Draft Tek - Consensus Mock Draft

1 Detroit Aaron Curry OLB43 Wake Forest +0 Value
2 St Louis Jason Smith OT Baylor -1 Reach
3 Kansas City Brian Orakpo OLB34 Texas -4 Reach
4 Seattle Michael Crabtree WRF Texas Tech +2 Value
5 Cleveland Malcolm Jenkins CB Ohio State -3 Reach
6 Cincinnati Eugene Monroe OT Virginia +2 Value
7 Oakland Everette Brown DE43 Florida State -3 Reach
8 Jacksonville Mark Sanchez QB USC -1 Reach
9 Green Bay BJ Raji DT34 Boston College +4 Value
10 San Francisco Andre Smith OT Alabama -3 Reach
11 Buffalo Tyson Jackson DE43 LSU -8 Reach
12 Denver Rey Maualuga ILB USC -3 Reach
13 Washington Michael Oher OT Mississippi -1 Reach
14 New Orleans Brian Cushing OLB43 USC -3 Reach
15 Houston Clay Matthews OLB43 USC -5 Reach
16 San Diego Jeremy Maclin WRF Missouri +5 Value
17 NY Jets Matthew Stafford QB Georgia +11 Value
18 Chicago Hakeem Nicks WRF North Carolina -9 Reach
19 Tampa Bay Peria Jerry DT43 Mississippi -4 Reach
20 Detroit (from Dallas) Eben Britton OT Arizona -13 Reach
21 Philadelphia Knowshon Moreno RBF Georgia +9 Value
22 Minnesota Vontae Davis CB Illinois +0 Value
23 New England James Laurinaitis ILB Ohio State -1 Reach
24 Atlanta Aaron Maybin OLB43 Penn State -1 Reach
25 Miami Percy Harvin WRF Florida +7 Value
26 Baltimore Michael Johnson OLB34 Georgia Tech -13 Reach
27 Indianapolis Evander Hood DT43 Missouri -4 Reach
28 Philadelphia (from Carolina) Brandon Pettigrew TE Oklahoma St +2 Value
29 NY Giants Darrius Heyward-Bey WRF Maryland +8 Value
30 Tennessee Alphonso Smith CB Wake Forest +2 Value
31 Arizona Chris Wells RBF Ohio State +15 Value
32 Pittsburgh Darius Butler CB Connecticut +3 Value

More media cuts - Gary Ley, Kelley McGee among those cut at WJAR-TV in Providence

More bad news when it comes to good people losing jobs in the media today.





From the Providence Journal, we get word that there are more cuts at NBC 10 (WJAR-TV) in Providence, Rhode Island. Twelve jobs were cut and among them are weekend anchor and "The Crowe's Nest" fav Kelley McGee, chief meteorogolist and New England icon Gary Ley and news director Betty-Jo Cugini, who's been with the station for 22 years. All three have been good to me over the years I've been in the media and I wish them all well in their next move.

With Ley leaving, he becomes the second high profile meteorologist to leave NBC 10 as John Ghiorse retired earlier this year.

Very sad news indeed!

NFL Preseason Schedule is out

Your 2009 NFL Preseason Schedule is out. For the locals, here's the Patriots schedule for you. Only the nationally televised games have exact dates (like the Pats/Redskins on Aug. 28) at the moment -

Week 1 (Aug. 13-17)
New England at Philadelphia

Week 2 (Aug. 20-24)
Cincinnati at New England

Week 3 (Aug. 28)
New England at Washington (CBS, national television)

Week 4 (Sept. 3-4)
N.Y. Giants at New England

Here's your national television schedule followed by the entire schedule, courtesy of NFL.com -

Hall of Fame Game
Sunday, Aug. 9
Buffalo Bills vs. Tennessee Titans, at Canton, Ohio NBC (8 p.m. ET)

Week 1 (Aug. 13-17)
Thursday, Aug. 13
Arizona Cardinals at Pittsburgh Steelers ESPN (8 p.m. ET)

Monday, Aug. 17
Carolina Panthers at New York Giants ESPN (8 p.m. ET)

Week 2 (Aug. 20-24)
Thursday, Aug. 20
Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts FOX (8 p.m. ET)

Friday, Aug. 21
Tennessee Titans at Dallas Cowboys FOX (8 p.m. ET)

Monday, Aug. 24
New York Jets at Baltimore Ravens ESPN (8 p.m. ET)

Week 3 (Aug. 27-31)
Thursday, Aug. 27
Miami Dolphins at Tampa Bay Buccaneers FOX (8 p.m. ET)

Friday, Aug. 28
New England Patriots at Washington Redskins CBS (8 p.m. ET)

Saturday, Aug. 29
San Diego Chargers at Atlanta Falcons CBS (8 p.m. ET)

Sunday, Aug. 30
Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos NBC (8 p.m. ET)

Monday, Aug. 31
Minnesota Vikings at Houston Texans ESPN (8 p.m. ET)

Aug. 9
Buffalo Bills vs. Tennessee Titans, at Canton, Ohio (NBC)

Week 1 (Aug. 13-17)
Aug. 13 Arizona Cardinals at Pittsburgh Steelers (ESPN)
Aug. 17 Carolina Panthers at New York Giants (ESPN)
TBD Atlanta falcons at Detroit Lions
TBD Chicago Bears at Buffalo Bills
TBD Cincinnati Bengals at New Orleans Saints
TBD Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers
TBD Dallas Cowboys at Oakland Raiders
TBD Denver Broncos at San Francisco 49ers
TBD Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs
TBD Jacksonville Jaguars at Miami Dolphins
TBD Minnesota Vikings at Indianapolis Colts
TBD New England Patriots at Philadelphia Eagles
TBD St. Louis Rams at New York Jets
TBD Seattle Seahawks at San Diego Chargers
TBD Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Tennessee Titans
Aug. 13 Washington Redskins at Baltimore Ravens

Week 2 (Aug. 20-24)
Aug. 20 Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts (FOX)
Aug. 21 Tennessee Titans at Dallas Cowboys (FOX)
Aug. 24 New York Jets at Baltimore Ravens (ESPN)
TBD Atlanta Falcons at St. Louis Rams
TBD Buffalo Bills at Green Bay Packers
TBD Carolina Panthers at Miami Dolphins
TBD Cincinnati Bengals at New England Patriots
TBD Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks
TBD Detroit Lions at Cleveland Browns
TBD Kansas City Chiefs at Minnesota Vikings
TBD New Orleans Saints at Houston Texans
TBD New York Giants at Chicago Bears
TBD Oakland Raiders at San Francisco 49ers
TBD Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins
TBD San Diego Chargers at Arizona Cardinals
TBD Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Jacksonville Jaguars

Week 3 (Aug. 27-31)
Aug. 27 Miami Dolphins at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (FOX)
Aug. 28 New England Patriots at Washington Redskins (CBS)
Aug. 29 San Diego Chargers at Atlanta Falcons (CBS)
Aug. 30 Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos (NBC)
Aug. 31 Minnesota Vikings at Houston Texans (ESPN)
TBD Baltimore Ravens at Carolina Panthers
TBD Buffalo Bills at Pittsburgh Steelers
TBD Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals
TBD Indianapolis Colts at Detroit Lions
Aug. 27 Jacksonville Jaguars at Philadelphia Eagles
TBD New Orleans Saints at Oakland Raiders
TBD New York Jets at New York Giants
TBD St. Louis Rams at Cincinnati Bengals
TBD San Francisco 49ers at Dallas Cowboys
TBD Seattle Seahawks at Kansas City Chiefs
TBD Tennessee Titans at Cleveland Browns

Week 4 (Sept. 3-4)
Sept. 3 Arizona Cardinals at Denver Broncos
Sept. 3 Baltimore Ravens at Atlanta Falcons
TBD Cleveland Browns at Chicago Bears
TBD Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings
TBD Detroit Lions at Buffalo Bills
TBD Green Bay Packers at Tennessee Titans
Sept. 4 Houston Texans at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
TBD Indianapolis Colts at Cincinnati Bengals
TBD Kansas City Chiefs at St. Louis Rams
TBD Miami Dolphins at New Orleans Saints
TBD New York Giants at New England Patriots
TBD Oakland Raiders at Seattle Seahawks
Sept. 3 Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets
TBD Pittsburgh Steelers at Carolina Panthers
TBD San Francisco 49ers at San Diego Chargers
TBD Washington Redskins at Jacksonville Jaguars

I wasn't the only one watching Tiger Woods Sunday

NBC nets high ratings for Tiger Woods dramatic victory Sunday at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Take a look and as you can see, I wasn't the only one here in Providence who was watching Tiger instead of the NCAA Tournament -

BEST RATING SINCE U.S. OPEN, BEST FOR TOUR EVENT IN TWO YEARS FOR FINAL ROUND OF ARNOLD PALMER INVITATIONAL

Woods Sixth Title at Bay Hill Scores Highest Event Rating in 7 Years & 23% Increase Over Last Year

NEW YORK – March 30, 2009 - NBC Sports' final round coverage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational yesterday (2:30-8 p.m. ET), which stretched into primetime, earned the best overnight rating for a golf event since the 2008 U.S. Open and the highest for any PGA TOUR event (excludes major championships) in more than two years (Jan. 28, 2007, Buick Invitational) according to Nielsen Media Research. The 4.9 overnight rating and 10 share was the best for the final round of Bay Hill in seven years (2002 - 5.7/11, Woods victory) and an increase of 23 percent over last year (4.0/9) which Woods also won with a birdie putt on the
final hole.

The rating peaked at a 7.8/13 from 7:30-8 p.m. ET as Tiger Woods secured the one-shot victory with a birdie putt on the 18th hole as the sun was setting, his sixth Bay Hill title and first since last year's historic U.S. Open victory.

The Bay Hill rating outperformed two of last year's major championships: 48 percent higher than the final round of the British Open (3.3) and 75 percent greater than the final round of the PGA Championship (2.8).

Saturday's third round coverage on NBC delivered a 2.7/6, 17% higher than last year (2.3/6).

Top metered markets for Sunday's final round coverage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational on NBC are as follows:

1. Fort Myers, 11.6/20
2. Orlando, 10.6/20
3. West Palm Beach, 8.8/15
4. Tampa, 7.6/15
5. Providence, 7.4/12
6. Buffalo, 7.1/13
7 Milwaukee, 6.9/13
T8. Minneapolis, 6.4/14
T8. Baltimore, 6.4/11
10. Cleveland, 6.1/11

Knight and Coach K go pantless with friends for Guitar Hero

OK, did I really need to see this during my NCAA Tournament coverage? Bob Knight, Coach K, Roy Williams and Rick Pitino doing their Tom Cruise "Risky Business" imitations for the latest "Guitar Hero: Metallica" commercial.



Can we go back to Heidi Klum in her underwear now? PLEASE!

Monday morning update

Welcome to your Manic Monday for the last time in March of 2009. Lots to get to -

* - Since it is Mock Draft Monday (it's coming up later in the day), we'll start with our friend Mike Florio's list of the top ten busts in the past 20 years from Pro Football Talk and Sporting News.

* - ESPN's Bob Harig talks up Tiger Woods dramatic comeback on Sunday.

* - Jon Lester's changeup suits him just fine thank you (Boston Herald).

* - Peter King has an update on Dr. Z in his latest MMQB (SI.com).

* - Did you see Dennis Rodman's latest meltdown on the "Celebrity Apprentice" last night? It ended in him getting fired by Mr. Trump (NBC).



* - How's your bracket doing? I still have UNC left so my bracket is toast. Check out the latest on the Final Four from SI.com's Luke Winn. Don't forget our NewsBabes Tournament Final runs until Friday. Vote now!

* - If you're a Rhode Islander, the state will now Twitter it's daily cash flow (Projo). Oh yeah, we are on Twitter too!

* - Old friend Bryan Morry is a happy boy today - his BU Terriers are heading to the Frozen Four (Boston.com)

* - No surpise here. Coach Cal is interested in the Kentucky gig. Yes, John Calipari to Kentucky could happen this time. (Fox Sports.com)

* - On Monday Night RAW tonight, it's the last go round before Wrestlemania 25 on the USA Network (9pm, ET). Tonight's matches include John Cena vs. Big Show and Jerry "The King" Lawler vs. Chris Jericho.

* - The new Mets' ballpark opens up with Georgetown vs. St.John's (NY Post). The Red Sox and Mets will play there later this week while the Yankees open the new Yankee Stadium with the Cubs this weekend as well.

Back with more later!

Simply the Best - Tiger Woods wins Arnold Palmer Invitational

I'll be honest. Tiger Woods had me more captivated than the NCAA Tournament Sunday. Instead of watching North Carolina's blowout of Oklahoma (didn't watch a second of it), I was glued to NBC's coverage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

And how's this for drama? Down 5 going into the final round of Sunday's Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill? No problem at all for Tiger.

Woods puts home at three under 67 for the day to top Sean O'Hair by one stroke, draining a 15-foot biride on the 18th hole to win his first tournament since his knee surgery last year. With a -5 score for the tourney, Woods nets his 66th victory. It's also matches his greatest PGA Tour win in terms of how far he had to come from going into Sunday's final round. Not bad for a guy just in his third tournament after taking the previous eight months off, huh! (ESPN.com)

Simply amazing.

Simply remarkable.

Simply the best!

UPDATE (9:19pm) with video from ESPN -



Enjoy!

CBS sets Final Four Tip Times

From CBS Sports -

CBS Sports has announced tip times for the 2009 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Final Four games on Saturday, April 4 (6:00-11:00 PM, ET). Connecticut takes on Michigan State to tip-off the day (6:07 PM, ET), followed by North Carolina against Villanova 40 minutes after conclusion of the first game.

Both contests will be available in high definition

Celebrate PING PONG tonight!

Now this is how you celebrate a victory in ping pong! It comes to us courtesy of Yahoo and Stupid Videos.com -


Excessive Ping Pong Celebration @ Yahoo! Video

Hilarious!

"My Boys" is back on TBS

The gang at Chicago's "Crowley's Tavern" is back together again for a third season of "My Boys" on TBS at 10:30pm, ET. It all begins again this Tuesday night. And thanks to the fine folks at TBS, I've been able to preview the first two episodes of the season. But first, let's get you caught up.



When we last left the gang, they were at a secluded ranch awaiting the upcoming nuptials of Bobby (Kyle Howard) and his fiancee Elsa. Caught in the drama, of course, is PJ (Jordana Spiro) having a little tryst with Bobby's brother Jack (Billy Burke).

How does it unfold? Well, I'm not going to spoil it for you but I will tell you that it all unfolds in true "My Boys" fashion including a good ol' fashion moustache contest.



More good news and plot twist include PJ's brother Andy (Jim Gaffigan) getting a new addition to the family, Brendan (Reid Scott) opening a new club and actually working while Stephanie (Kelee Stewart) continues to bask in the success of her new best seller.

And yeah, and what about PJ?



Well, the sexy sportswriter gets a new column, a new man and plenty of ways of trying to keep the boys in line through the trouble waters.

Check it out this Tuesday night at 10:30pm, ET on TBS.

CBS nets higher ratings for Elite 8

From CBS Sports -

CBS SPORTS’ RATINGS RISE FOR REGIONAL SATURDAY OF 2009 NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP ON MARCH 28

Tournament-to-Date Average Ratings in Metered Markets Up 9%

CBS Sports exclusive live coverage of the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Regional Finals from the Boston and Glendale regions on Saturday, March 28 (4:30-9:30, PM ET) earned an average overnight household rating/share of 6.9/14, up +11% compared to last year’s Regional Finals Saturday night rating/share of 6.2/11 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ overall average overnight household rating/share for the Tournament-to-Date is a 5.8/12, up +9% compared to last year’s 5.3/11 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ first broadcast window of the night (4:30-7:00 PM, ET) featuring Connecticut over Missouri earned an average overnight household rating/share of 6.2/14, up +15% from last year’s 5.4/11 (UCLA-Xavier).
The second broadcast window of the night (7:00 PM-9:30 PM, ET), which saw Villanova beat Pittsburgh, earned an average overnight household rating/share of 7.5/14, up +6% compared to last year’s 7.1/12 (North Carolina-Louisville). This year’s 7.5/14 is the highest rating in this game window since a 9.1/16 in 2005.

On the road to Wrestlemania 25 - Wrestlemania 18

Before we get to our road to Wrestlemania 25 in Houston, I want to give you the opportuntiy to send "The Crowe's Nest" your predictions for Wrestlemania 25. We, of course, will provide you our thoughts for the anniversary show but I want to hear from you. So, just send your thoughts and predictions for the big show right here to TCN and we'll post them for your fellow readers to soak in.

Now, onto Wrestlemania 18 in Toronto, the last one under the "WWF" banner as it soon changed to "WWE"! It's one of my favorite cards in that he has a great psychological match between The Rock and Hulk Hogan. It's a picture perfect match that shows how to tell a story. It was supposed to be the fan favorite Rock vs. bad buy Hulk "Hollywood" Hogan, but the crowd turned the tides and made Hogan the favorite in a classic double-swerve. We were actually broadcasting live for Sportsradio the Score that night and the crowd was going nuts for this one!

Also, you get the Undertaker staying undefeated against Ric Flair, Triple H taking down Chris Jericho and Stephanie McMahon for the Undisputed Title. It's Edge returning to Toronto for a Wrestlemania, this time as a competitor to take on Booker T. You get Lita and Trish in a match with Jazz, that can't be all bad. So, check out your videos courtesy of the WWE and You Tube -

The Rock vs. Hulk Hogan (part 1)



Rock vs. Hogan (part 2)



Rock vs. Hogan (part 3)



Stone Cold Steve Austin vs. Scott Hall



Undertaker vs. Ric Flair



Triple H vs. Chris Jericho



Here's the entire card -

# Results Stipulations Times
* - On Heat Rikishi, Scotty 2 Hotty, and Albert defeated Mr. Perfect, Lance Storm , and Test
* - Rob Van Dam defeated William Regal to win the WWF Intercontinental Championship
* - Diamond Dallas Page defeated Christian to retain the WWF European Championship
* - Maven fought Goldust to a no contest in a Hardcore match for the WWF Hardcore Championship
* - Kurt Angle defeated Kane
* - The Undertaker defeated Ric Flair in a No disqualification match
* - Edge defeated Booker T
* - Steve Austin defeated Scott Hall (with Kevin Nash)
* - Billy and Chuck defeated The APA (Faarooq and Bradshaw), The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray and D-Von) (with Stacy Keibler) and The Hardy Boyz (Matt and Jeff) in a Four Corners Elimination match to retain the WWF Tag Team Championship
* - The Rock defeated Hollywood Hulk Hogan
* - Jazz defeated Trish Stratus and Lita in a Triple Threat match to retain the WWF Women's Championship
* - Triple H defeated Chris Jericho (with Stephanie McMahon) to win the WWF Undisputed Championship

Up next: Wrestlemania 19 in Seattle outdoors at Safeco Field.

WOW! Villanova upsets Pitt at the buzzer

Can you say Instant Classic!

Villanova moves on to the Final Four upsetting #1 Pitt, 78-76 on a Scottie Peynolds picket fence layup with five-tenths of a second left in the East Regional Finals!

Amazing! Check it out from CBS and You Tube -



So, UConn and Villanova are in. Tomorrow, Louisville can make it three Big East teams.

Oh my!

On the road to Wrestlemania 25 - Wrestlemania 17

We're in the Houston Astrodome for Wrestlemania 17 and it's a classic. Going into the event, we have the McMahon family battle over the recently purchased WCW that leads into the Vince vs. Shane Street Fight. It's TLC II as the Dudlyz, Hardyz and Edge/Christian recreate a classic tables, ladders and chairs match. Plus, we get a brutal affair between the Undertaker and Triple H, a gimmick battle royale featuring the Iron Sheik, The Goon and Brother Love and in the main event, it's Stone Cold vs. the Rock!

Here's your video enjoyment from the WWE and You Tube -

Wrestlemania 17 Highlights



Undertaker vs. Triple H



TLC Match part 1 - Dudley Boyz vs. Hardy Boyz vs. Edge/Christian



TLC Match part 2



TLC Match part 3



Shane McMahon vs. Vince McMahon Street Fight



More Street Fight



Stone Cold vs. The Rock



The entire card -

* - "On Heat" X-Factor (Justin Credible and X-Pac) (with Albert) defeated Steve Blackman and Grand Master Sexay
* - Chris Jericho defeated William Regal to retain the WWF Intercontinental Championship
* - Tazz and The APA (Bradshaw and Faarooq) (with Jacqueline) defeated Right to Censor (The Goodfather, Val Venis and Bull Buchanan) (with Steven Richards)
* - Kane defeated Raven and The Big Show in a Triple Threat Hardcore match to win the WWF Hardcore Championship
* - Eddie Guerrero (with Perry Saturn) defeated Test to win the WWF European Championship
* - Kurt Angle defeated Chris Benoit
* - Chyna defeated Ivory to win the WWF Women's Championship
* - Shane McMahon defeated Vince McMahon (with Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley) in a Street Fight with Mick Foley as special guest referee
* - Edge and Christian defeated The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray and D-Von) and The Hardy Boyz (Matt and Jeff).[26][2] Tables, Ladders, and Chairs match to win the WWF Tag Team Championship
* - The Iron Sheik won by last eliminating Hillbilly Jim in a Gimmick battle royal
* - The Undertaker defeated Triple H
* - Steve Austin defeated The Rock in a No disqualification match to win the WWF Championship

Up next: back to Toronto for the infamous Rock vs. Hogan match!

More good NCAA Tournament Ratings News for CBS

Higher ratings again for CBS despite three blowouts -

CBS SPORTS’ RATINGS UP FOR COVERAGE OF REGIONAL SEMI-FINALS OF 2009 NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP ON FRIDAY, MARCH 27

Tournament-to-Date Average Ratings in Metered Markets Up 10%

CBS Sports' exclusive live coverage of the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Regional Semi-Finals from the Indianapolis and Memphis regions on Friday, March 27 (7:00 PM-12:00 AM, ET) earned an average overnight household rating/share of 6.5/12, up +20% compared to last year’s Regional Semi-Finals Friday night rating/share of 5.4/10 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ overall average overnight household rating/share for the Tournament-to-Date is a 5.7/12, up +10% compared to last year’s 5.2/11 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ first broadcast window of the night (7:00-9:30 PM, ET) featuring Louisville’s win over Arizona and Oklahoma’s victory over Syracuse earned an average overnight household rating/share of 5.7/11, up +2% from last year’s 5.6/10 (Davidson-Wisconsin and Texas-Stanford).

The second broadcast window of the night (9:30 PM-12:00 AM, ET), which saw North Carolina knock off Gonzaga and Michigan State defeat Kansas, earned an average overnight household rating/share of 7.4/13, up +42% compared to last year’s 5.2/9 (Kansas-Villanova and Memphis-Michigan State). This year’s 7.4/13 is the highest rating in this game window since a 7.9/14 in 2005.

NCAA Tournament Elite 8 Tips from CBS

From CBS Sports -

CBS SPORTS’ EXCLUSIVE LIVE COVERAGE OF NCAA DIVISION I MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP CONTINUES WITH REGIONAL FINALS ON SATURDAY, MARCH 28

Tip-Times Announced for Regional Finals on Sunday, March 29

CBS Sports' exclusive broadcast coverage of the 2009 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship continues on Saturday, March 28 (4:30-9:00 PM, ET) with broadcasts of the regional finals as Connecticut battles Missouri in the first game followed by Pittsburgh playing Villanova. Regional final action continues on Sunday, March 29 (2:00-7:00 PM, ET) as Louisville takes on Michigan State to tip-off the day followed by Oklahoma against North Carolina.

On Saturday, the Division II Men’s Basketball Championship (1:00-3:00 PM, ET) tips-off the day with Findlay taking on Cal Poly Pomona, followed by THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR®, hosted by Greg Gumbel, Greg Anthony and Seth Davis (3:00-4:30 PM, ET).

Following are the tip-times and announce/production teams for Saturday and Sunday’s regional final games. All games are broadcast in high definition.

SATURDAY, MARCH 28 (4:30 PM-9:00 PM, ET)

4:40 PM Glendale
Connecticut vs. Missouri
Dick Enberg/Jay Bilas

7:05 PM Boston
Pittsburgh vs. Villanova
Verne Lundquist/Bill Raftery
SUNDAY, MARCH 29 (2:00-7:00 PM, ET)

2:20 PM Indianapolis I
Louisville vs. Michigan State
Gus Johnson/Len Elmore

5:05 PM Memphis I
North Carolina vs. Oklahoma
Jim Nantz/Clark Kellogg

Friday Feel-Good: Megan Fox!!!

OK, we all know that Megan Fox is insanely hot!



So, with that in mind, we give you Megan Fox showing us how to be insanely hot in your Daisy Dukes! Thanks to Egotastic.com for the link! Check out the dude behind her checking her ass out. Do you blame him?









How lucky is Brian Austin Green?!

CBS Sweet 16 Ratings Rise; MLB Network's New Ad Campaign

From CBS Sports -

CBS SPORTS’ RATINGS RISE FOR COVERAGE OF REGIONAL SEMI-FINALS OF 2009 NCAA MEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Tournament-to-Date Average Ratings in Metered Markets Up 8%

CBS Sports' exclusive live coverage of the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship Regional Semi-Finals from the Boston and Glendale regions on Thursday, March 26 (7:00 PM-12:15 AM, ET) earned an average overnight household rating/share of 6.8/12, up +13% compared to last year’s Regional Semi-Finals Thursday night rating/share of 6.0/11 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ overall average overnight household rating/share for the Tournament-to-Date is a 5.6/12, up +8% compared to last year’s 5.2/11 in the metered markets.

CBS Sports’ first broadcast window of the night (7:00-9:45 PM, ET) featuring Pittsburgh’s win over Xavier and Connecticut’s victory over Purdue earned an average overnight household rating/share of 6.2/11, up +3% from last year’s 6.0/11 (North Carolina-Washington State and Xavier-West Virginia, OT).

The second broadcast window of the night (9:45 PM-12:15 AM, ET), which saw Villanova knock off Duke and Missouri beat Memphis, earned an average overnight household rating/share of 7.4/13, up +25% compared to last year’s 5.9/11 (Louisville-Tennessee and UCLA-Western Kentucky). This year’s 7.4/13 tied with 2005’s 7.4/12 and 2004’s 7.4/13 as the second highest rating in this game window since an 8.9/16 in 1993.

From the MLB Network -

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL LAUNCHES “THIS IS BEYOND BASEBALL” MULTI-MEDIA MARKETING AND ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN

New Campaign Celebrates Baseball’s Unique Place in Society

Officially Launches With Documentary-Style Program on MLB Network

Narrated by Legendary Broadcaster Vin Scully on Sunday, March 29 at 8:00 p.m. ET

Major League Baseball today announced the launch of a new integrated multi-media marketing campaign titled “This is Beyond Baseball,” which will celebrate baseball’s unique place in the cultural fabric of society and in the lives of fans. The campaign will officially launch with a special on MLB Network this Sunday, March 29 at 8:00 p.m. ET titled This Is Beyond Baseball, a documentary-style program created by MLB Productions. Narrated by legendary broadcaster Vin Scully, the 30-minute program comprises a series of vignettes that communicate the magnitude of what baseball represents and that the scope of its impact goes well beyond the game on the field.

“Baseball reaches us all in places far beyond the playing field,” said Scully. “I am honored to lend my support to this endeavor and help celebrate the game I have loved for my entire life.”

The program features insight and commentary from many prominent current and former players, including Ken Griffey Jr., Derek Jeter, Cal Ripken Jr., Curtis Granderson, Derek Lee and Terry Francona, as well as a special profile of the Upton family – father Manny and sons B.J. and Justin – a unique family story of dedication and determination.

“For more than a century, baseball has transcended the game to become an integral part of the lives of Americans,” said Tim Brosnan, Major League Baseball Executive Vice President, Business. “This campaign is a celebration of baseball and its impact beyond the playing field into the culture and society of the country.” This Is Beyond Baseball is divided into four segments, focused on generational connections, ballparks revered as national treasures, community relations and cultural elements. Highlights of each segment include:

· Family: Linking generation to generation, the opening segment taps into the bond baseball creates within families both on and off the field. The segment takes a close look at the Upton family, specifically Manny Upton’s relationship with his sons, Tampa Bay Rays outfielder B.J. Upton and Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton. The segment covers other baseball-family connections, including insight from Ken Griffey Jr. and Cal Ripken Jr. on the important roles their fathers played in their careers.

· Ballparks: Going beyond the brick and concrete, baseball’s ballparks have become much more than mere playing fields. This segment takes an inside look into stadiums across the nation that, as Vin Scully reads, “leave an indelible impression on each and every visitor.” Featured in this segment are rarely seen areas within Dodger Stadium, Wrigley Field and Fenway Park, among others, with commentary from Red Sox Manager Terry Francona, and others with personal reflections on the ballparks.

· Community: The final segment of the program highlights baseball’s efforts to give back to the community. Major League Baseball’s work with The Boys and Girls Club of America as well as the Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities (RBI) presented by KPMG program are highlighted, as is baseball’s fight against breast cancer and prostate cancer in its tribute games on Mother’s and Father’s Day, respectively. Player commentary, including New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter, is woven throughout, driving home the important role baseball and its players play in the community.

· Culture: The second segment the important impact baseball and its players have played off the field over the years, with a special focus on Jackie Robinson. Cubs first baseman Derek Lee says on the show, “Barack Obama is not President without what Jackie Robinson did.” The documentary also highlights how the 2001 World Series helped bring America together following 9/11, as well as other moments over the years that transcended the game. As Vin Scully reads, “baseball is there in both times of triumph and tragedy.”

NewsBabes Tournament Finals are set - Allison Alexander vs. Sue Hogan

Yes, we've made it to our final two competitors in the 2009 NewsBabes Tournament!

As it was for our quarterfinal matchups, the Final Four was our closest ever. In fact, the lead changed hands several times and was actually tied with two minutes left to go as we hit the deadline of high noon on Friday.

In the end, it's Allison Alexander and Sue Hogan squeaking out wins over Shawna Hassett (56.5%-43.5%) and Julie Ruditzky (50.5%-49.5%) respectively.

So now, it's your turn to see who you will crown as this year's champion -

Allison Alexander (#2 seed)



Sue Hogan (#10 seed)



Voting is open! So, spread the word and make your vote count today!

MLB Network does fantasy

From the MLB Network, we get good news for all you fantasy baseball players out there. Help is on its way!

MLB NETWORK, MLB.COM TEAM UP FOR “MLB.COM FANTASY DRAFT PREVIEW SHOW” ON SUNDAY, MARCH 29 AT 8:30 P.M. ET

Show Features Detailed Analysis and Insight from MLB.com Fantasy Experts

Secaucus, N.J. – MLB Network will broadcast a special MLB.com Fantasy Draft Preview Show, in conjunction with MLB.com, on Sunday, March 29 at 8:30 p.m. ET. Hosted by MLB Network’s Greg Amsinger and Harold Reynolds along with MLB.com’s Cory Schwartz and Mike Siano, the co-hosts of Fantasy 411 on MLB.com, the 90-minute show will provide detailed analysis and insight specifically geared towards fantasy baseball enthusiasts as fantasy draft days loom before Opening Day.

Highlights of the MLB.com Fantasy Draft Preview Show will include:

· Position-by-position analysis with full player rankings

· Discussion of strategy for draft day and in-season transactions

· “Breakout, bargain and bust” picks for the 2009 season

· Top picks for prospects expected to be called up during the 2009 season

Schwartz and Siano serve as co-hosts of Fantasy 411, MLB.com’s longest-running program that provides key insights to help further fans’ enjoyment and knowledge in their respective fantasy leagues. Schwartz, the Director of Stats for MLB.com and a regular contributor to MLB.com's fantasy baseball section, has been competing in fantasy baseball since 1989, including expert competitions such as the National Fantasy Baseball Championship (NFBC) and Tout Wars. Siano, the Director of Multimedia Production for MLB.com, has been competing in fantasy baseball for more than 10 years, including the highly-competitive Tout Wars league. The MLB.com Fantasy 411 blog can be found right here.

Big East goes 3-3; Duke, Memphis ousted! Rondo says no rivalry with Hawks, Jason Taylor likes Pats

A few notes for the morning. Don't forget that there's only a few more hours to vote in the semi-finals of our NewsBabes Tournament. Vote now! We'll announce the finals at 12pm, ET.

* - The Big East goes 3-for-3 last night in Sweet 16 action but I lost one of my Final Four teams as Memphis goes down to Mizzou. I love that Villanova routed Duke (ESPN.com).

* - Jason Taylor likes the Pats. That's a good thing since Tom Brady likes Jason Taylor. (Yahoo Sports)

* - No more International Torch Relays says the IOC (SI.com).

* - Former Laker Paul Westhead has won an NBA and WNBA title as a coach. Now, he'll try the college ranks at Oregon (Fox Sports.com).

* - Celtics vs. Hawks tonight in Atlanta (Slam Online). But don't tell Rajean Rondo that it's a rivalry game (Boston Herald).

More later!

Your tip times for NCAA Tournament Friday and Saturday's Sweet 16 and Elite 8

From CBS Sports -

CBS SPORTS’ EXCLUSIVE LIVE COVERAGE OF NCAA DIVISION I MEN'S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP CONTINUES WITH REGIONAL SEMIFINALS ON FRIDAY, MARCH 27

Tip-Times Announced for Regional Finals on Saturday, March 28

CBS Sports' exclusive coverage of the 2009 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship continues on Friday, March 27 (7:00 PM-12:00 AM, ET) with broadcasts of the regional semifinals. The regional finals will be broadcast on Saturday, March 28 (4:30-9:00 PM, ET) and Sunday, March 29 (2:00-7:00 PM, ET). On Saturday Connecticut takes on Missouri in the first game followed by Pittsburgh playing Villanova.

On Saturday, the Division II Men’s Basketball Championship (1:00-3:00 PM, ET) tips-off the day followed by THE ROAD TO THE FINAL FOUR®, hosted by Greg Gumbel, Greg Anthony and Seth Davis (3:00-4:30 PM, ET).

Following are the tip-times and announce/production teams for Friday’s regional semifinal games and Saturday’s regional final games. All games are broadcast in high definition.

FRIDAY, MARCH 27 (7:00 PM-12:00 AM, ET)

7:07 PM Indianapolis I
Louisville vs. Arizona
Gus Johnson/Len Elmore

7:27 PM Memphis I
Oklahoma vs. Syracuse
Jim Nantz/Clark Kellogg

9:37pm after conc. I Indianapolis II
Kansas vs. Michigan State
Johnson/Elmore

9:57pm after conc. I Memphis II
North Carolina vs. Gonzaga
Nantz/Kellogg

SATURDAY, MARCH 29 (4:30 PM-9:00 PM, ET)

4:40 PM Glendale
Connecticut vs. Missouri
Dick Enberg/Jay Bilas

7:05 PM Boston
Pittsburgh vs. Villanova
Verne Lundquist/Bill Raftery

Jimmy Kimmel slips on his "clip" with Calista Flockhart

ABC's Jimmy Kimmel gives us the laugh today with a very funny slip-up when trying to set up a "clip" with Calista Flockhart from "Brothers and Sisters."

Yes, your first instinct is right in this one! Check it out from ABC -



Oh my! Classic!

LeBron James on "60 Minutes," Jim Nantz remembers Seve Ballesteros at The Masters

A pair of releases from CBS today as we get news that LeBron James will grace "60 Minutes" while Jim Nantz remembers Augusta in a Masters special -



AT 17, LEBRON JAMES DIDN'T REALIZE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BEING ON THE COVER OF SPORTS ILLUSTRATED, HE TELLS STEVE KROFT IN A "60 MINUTES" PROFILE SUNDAY ON CBS

Camera Catches a Spontaneous, Incredible shot that "One-Take" James Makes Look Easy

Gracing the cover of America's premiere sports magazine while still in high school would be almost considered miraculous if you weren't an Olympic gymnast. Unless you're basketball idol LeBron James, whose face first made the cover of Sports Illustrated on Feb. 18, 2002. But it was hardly a miracle to the then-17-yr-old phenom from Akron, Ohio, James tells Steve Kroft in a 60 MINUTES profile to be broadcast Sunday, March 29 (7:00-8:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.

"I just thought it was just another sports magazine. They want a sports figure, a guy that can play basketball on the cover," he tells Kroft. "I didn't know how big Sports Illustrated was," laughs the 24-yr-old Cleveland Cavaliers superstar, who then counters Kroft's facetious reaction with a little ribbing of his own.

With a twinkle in his eye, Kroft asks, "Do you know what 60 MINUTES is?" "Yeah," replies James, who then waits for effect, "It's an hour, right?" Watch the excerpt right here.

Then James' wit turns to wizardry when he sinks a more-than-half-court-length shot, underhanded -- swish!

It happened so fast 60 MINUTES nearly missed it. While he and Kroft walk the court at his old high school in Akron, James bounces a basketball near the top of the key. "Are you going to do anything with this?" asks Kroft. Before Kroft barely finishes the sentence, James nonchalantly flips the ball underhanded at the backcourt hoop some 60 feet away, where it hits nothing but net. "You got it?" asks a smiling James.

Luckily, the 60 MINUTES cameraman was on it and captured the entire flight of the incredible shot. "How many times can you do that in a row? asks a dazzled Kroft. "I'm one take, baby, that's all. I'm just one take," smirks James. Watch the excerpt below -


Watch CBS Videos Online

Besides a visit to James' old high school, St. Vincent-St. Mary, the profile also includes a drive through Akron and an interview with his mother, Gloria James.



CBS SPORTS SPECTACULAR FEATURES JIM NANTZ REMEMBERS AUGUSTA: SEVE AT THE MASTERS®” ON SUNDAY, APRIL 12

CBS Sports will broadcast JIM NANTZ REMEMBERS AUGUSTA: SEVE AT THE MASTERS® on Sunday, April 12 (1:00-2:00 PM, ET) on the CBS Television Network. Jim Nantz, CBS Sports’ host of the Masters, looks back at the career of one of the most exciting players to ever walk the fairways of Augusta – Seve Ballesteros.

JIM NANTZ REMEMBERS AUGUSTA: SEVE AT THE MASTERS celebrates one of the most exciting and dominant golfers at Augusta during the 1980s. Seve Ballesteros won two Green Jackets, the first in 1980 defeating Gibby Gilbert and Jack Newton by four strokes, and his second in 1983 by finishing ahead of Ben Crenshaw also by four strokes. The swashbuckling Spaniard also finished in the Top Five on five other occasions including being the runner-up in 1985, along with Ray Floyd and Curtis Strange, two strokes behind Bernhard Langer, and in 1987 when he was eliminated after one playoff hole before Larry Mize made his miracle chip shot on the second playoff hole to also beat Greg Norman.

“We are honored to have the chance to pay tribute to one of the most important figures in the history of the game and arguably the greatest European champion golf has ever known,” said Nantz. “Since last fall Seve has been fighting a courageous battle against brain cancer. We feel it is the perfect time to remind people of his great days, and some of his heartaches, at Augusta. We will remember it all and, most importantly, golf fans will be reminded of the swashbuckling Spaniard in his glory days.”

In addition to the highlights of these great moments in Masters history, the one-hour special includes interviews with past Masters champions, along with current Spanish golfing greats Sergio Garcia and two-time Masters champion Jose Maria-Olazabal as they reminisce about the impact Ballesteros had on their careers, and also pass along well wishes to him as he recovers at his home in Santander, Spain.

JIM NANTZ REMEMBERS AUGUSTA: SEVE AT THE MASTERS is produced and directed by Chris Svendsen. The Executive Producer is Jim Nantz.