The Early Lead: The Early Lead


Posted at 12:34 AM ET, 03/23/2012

NCAA basketball: Ohio State pulls away from Cincinnati
By Josh Barr
After the Bearcats threaten, the Buckeyes end the Big East’s Thursday night run.

By Josh Barr  |  12:34 AM ET, 03/23/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:58 PM ET, 03/22/2012

Syracuse vs. Wisconsin: Orange defense forces bad shots at end to advance
By Josh Barr
The Badgers made 14 three-point shots, but with a chance to win in the closing seconds the Orange defense forced two air balls.

By Josh Barr  |  09:58 PM ET, 03/22/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:03 AM ET, 03/17/2012

NCAA tournament: Kansas takes control vs. Detroit, avoids upset bug with 65-50 victory
By Josh Barr
District native Thomas Robinson scored 16 points and grabs 13 rebounds as Jayhawks move on.

By Josh Barr  |  02:03 AM ET, 03/17/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:50 AM ET, 03/17/2012

NCAA tournament 2012: South Florida tops Temple, getting in gear after ugly first half
By Josh Barr
After going without a field goal for 16 minutes in the first half, the Bulls turned things around to earn their second NCAA tournament victory in three nights.

By Josh Barr  |  01:50 AM ET, 03/17/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:16 AM ET, 02/10/2012

Luol Deng named first British NBA All-Star as reserves are announced
By Matt Brooks
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng is the first ever British player to be selected for the NBA All-Star game.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:16 AM ET, 02/10/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:41 PM ET, 02/07/2012

Steelers name Todd Haley new offensive coordinator
By Matt Brooks
The Pittsburgh Steelers have hired former Kansas City Chiefs head coach Todd Haley to be the team’s new offensive coordinator.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:41 PM ET, 02/07/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:59 PM ET, 02/06/2012

Wes Welker’s ‘100 times out of 100’ drop proves costly for Patriots
By Matt Brooks
Wes Welker’s fourth-quarter drop cost New England a chance to put the Super Bowl out of reach. But was it really Welker’s fault, or should Tom Brady have made a better throw?

By Matt Brooks  |  12:59 PM ET, 02/06/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 05:37 PM ET, 02/05/2012

Super Bowl 2012 injury report: Giants’ Mark Herzlich is inactive; Patriots’ Rob Gronkowski, Chad Ochocinco are active
By Mark Maske
Heading into the big game, Giants’ Mark Herzlich is inactive; Patriots’ Rob Gronkowski, Chad Ochocinco are active

By Mark Maske  |  05:37 PM ET, 02/05/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:32 AM ET, 02/03/2012

NBA All-Star Game 2012: Blake Griffin one of four L.A.starters; will not enter dunk contest
By Matt Brooks
Blake Griffin was one of four players from Los Angeles — along with Kobe Bryant, Chris Paul and Andrew Bynum — to be named a starter for the 2012 All-Star Game. But Griffin will not defend his slam dunk contest title.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:32 AM ET, 02/03/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:38 AM ET, 02/02/2012

Mark Cuban rips referees after Thunder beat Mavericks
By Matt Brooks
Mark Cuban has been trying to bite his tongue this season, but after his Mavericks lost to the Western-Conference leading Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night in Dallas, Cuban went off on the officials yet again.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:38 AM ET, 02/02/2012 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:25 PM ET, 12/20/2011

Ohio State NCAA sanctions: one-year postseason ban, scholarships reduction, three years probation
By Matt Brooks
Ohio State is bracing for the NCAA’s final assessment of sanctions for a series of major violations by its football program. Those punishments will reportedly include a one-year postseason ban, scholarship reductions and three years of probation.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:25 PM ET, 12/20/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:48 PM ET, 12/20/2011

New-look Clippers drop Kobe Bryant, Lakers in preseason debut
By Matt Brooks
It may only be the preseason, but the Clippers’ 114-95 win over the Lakers served notice that “the other team from L.A.” is poised to move up the ladder in the Western Conference.

By Matt Brooks  |  01:48 PM ET, 12/20/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:28 AM ET, 12/20/2011

Rangers win Yu Darvish derby: let the negotiation begin
By Matt Brooks
After falling short in the World Series in consecutive seasons, the Texas Rangers knew they needed to upgrade their rotation. So they spent a reported $51.7 million to land the rights to negotiate with Japanese superstar Yu Darvish.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:28 AM ET, 12/20/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 05:16 PM ET, 12/19/2011

Report: Ryan Braun’s positive test a result of medication, not PEDs
By Matt Brooks
TMZ reported Mondaythat NL MVP Ryan Braun tested positive for a “medication he’s taking for a private medical issue — not performance enhancing drugs.” But the real question is will it matter?

By Matt Brooks  |  05:16 PM ET, 12/19/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:11 PM ET, 12/19/2011

Tim Tebow, Broncos keeping the faith after loss to Patriots
By Matt Brooks
New England beat Denver 41-23, and at least for one week, Broncos fans were forced to recall the taste of defeat.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:11 PM ET, 12/19/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:07 PM ET, 12/19/2011

Packers perfect no more: Chiefs defense steps up, Kyle Orton outduels Aaron Rodgers
By Matt Brooks
Raise your hand if you pegged the last-place Kansas City Chiefs in Week 15 as the team that would end Green Bay’s 19-game win streak.

By Matt Brooks  |  01:07 PM ET, 12/19/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:34 AM ET, 12/19/2011

Report: Baron Davis to sign with Knicks
By Matt Brooks
Veteran point guard Baron Davis has agreed to sign with the New York Knicks, according to a report from ESPN.com.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:34 AM ET, 12/19/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:44 PM ET, 12/16/2011

Roddy White’s big night helps Falcons drill Jaguars
By Matt Brooks
For those wondering, Roddy White is still a playmaker and Matt Ryan’s go-to target. He showed why on Thursday night, hauling in 10 passes for 135 yards and two touchdowns in Atlanta’s 41-14 win against the Jaguars.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:44 PM ET, 12/16/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:01 PM ET, 12/16/2011

James Harrison suspension upheld by NFL
By Matt Brooks
James Harrison will not be on the field Monday night when the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the San Francisco 49ers after the NFL denied his appeal of a one-game suspension for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Cleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy.

By Matt Brooks  |  12:01 PM ET, 12/16/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:04 AM ET, 12/16/2011

Report: Yu Darvish could land with Blue Jays
By Matt Brooks
The Toronto Blue Jays are believed to have posted a bid between $40 and $50 million for the right to bring Japanese pitcher Yu Darvish north of the border.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:04 AM ET, 12/16/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:33 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Todd Graham’s move to Arizona State stuns Pittsburgh; Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy named national coach of the year
By Matt Brooks
Pittsburgh’s players were stunned by head coach Todd Graham’s sudden departure after less than one season with the Panthers. Nobody should be stunned by Oklahoma State’s Mike Gundy being named national coach of the year.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:33 PM ET, 12/15/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:55 PM ET, 12/15/2011

Jamal Crawford, Portland Trail Blazers agree to one-year deal
By Matt Brooks
The Portland Trail Blazers have agreed to a one-year, $5 million deal with veteran shooting guard Jamal Crawford, nabbing one of the top perimeter scoring threats on the free agent market to replace Brandon Roy.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:55 PM ET, 12/15/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:56 AM ET, 12/15/2011

Bernie Fine scandal: Fourth man accuses ex-Syracuse coach of sexual abuse
By Matt Brooks
A fourth man has come forward with sexual abuse accusations against fired Syracuse assistant men’s basketball coach Bernie Fine.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:56 AM ET, 12/15/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:26 AM ET, 12/15/2011

Richard Hamilton gives Bulls, Derrick Rose more firepower
By Matt Brooks
On Wednesday night the Bulls announced the signing of recently-waived shooting guard Richard Hamilton — a move that significantly upgrades the offensive prowess of Chicago’s backcourt and helps the team continue to build around MVP Derrick Rose.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:26 AM ET, 12/15/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 05:54 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Prince Fielder is on the market; Cubs, Rangers, Mariners are interested
By Matt Brooks
For all the general managers out there looking for a power-hitting first baseman to anchor the middle of their batting order, super-agent Scott Boras has just the guy for you: Prince Fielder.

By Matt Brooks  |  05:54 PM ET, 12/14/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:43 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Mike Holmgren: Colt McCoy not tested for concussion before returning to field
By Matt Brooks
On Wednesday, Browns president Mike Holmgren explained what his staff saw from quarterback Colt McCoy on the sideline and why they let him back into last week’s game against the Steelers without undergoing a concussion test.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:43 PM ET, 12/14/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:24 PM ET, 12/14/2011

Peyton Manning is throwing again as rehab continues
By Matt Brooks
On Wednesday, Peyton Manning quietly made some news of his own, beginning a throwing regimen as he continues the long rehabilitation road back from neck surgery.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:24 PM ET, 12/14/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:45 AM ET, 12/14/2011

Colt McCoy’s coach, Pat Shurmur, defends putting concussed QB back in game after James Harrison hit
By Matt Brooks
NFL and players association representatives are investigating whether the Browns may have mishandled their treatment of concussed quarterback Colt McCoy, after a suspension-inducing helmet-to-helmet hit by James Harrison.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:45 AM ET, 12/14/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:13 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Marshawn Lynch has Seahawks running in “Beast Mode”
By Matt Brooks
Over his last six games, Marshawn Lynch has been in full effect, and after Monday’s 30-13 rout of St. Louis, the Seahawks are 6-7, and believe it or not, back in the playoff hunt.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:13 PM ET, 12/13/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:31 PM ET, 12/13/2011

Ryan Braun PED case is worth following
By Matt Brooks
The magnitude of the performance-enhancing drug case involving Ryan Braun could not be greater for Major League Baseball and its players — two parties still trying to shed the stigma of the so-called “steroid era.”

By Matt Brooks  |  01:31 PM ET, 12/13/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:45 AM ET, 12/13/2011

Mikhail Prokhorov announces Russian presidential candidacy, has support of New Jersey Nets
By Matt Brooks
In a move more shocking than any rumored trade involving Dwight Howard or Chris Paul, New Jersey Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov has announced his intention to challenge Vladi­mir Putin for the Russian presidency.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:45 AM ET, 12/13/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:26 PM ET, 12/12/2011

Dolphins fire Tony Sparano
By Matt Brooks
Miami Dolphins coach Tony Sparano has been on the hot seat all season, and on Monday the team finally pulled the trigger, firing their head coach following lopsided loss to the Eagles.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:26 PM ET, 12/12/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:01 PM ET, 12/12/2011

Report: Chris Paul’s trade to Clippers collapses
By Matt Brooks
Only four days after NBA Commissioner David Stern vetoed a deal that would have sent All-Star point guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers, a proposed trade to the Clippers will meet a similar fate.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:01 PM ET, 12/12/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:36 PM ET, 12/12/2011

Cincinnati-Xavier brawl could bring criminal charges
By Matt Brooks
Cincinnati and Xavier suspended a total of eight players for their involvement in Saturday’s on-court brawl, but an Ohio prosecutor is now considering criminal charges.

By Matt Brooks  |  01:36 PM ET, 12/12/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:24 PM ET, 12/12/2011

Eli Manning and the Giants are capable of fourth-quarter comebacks, too
By Matt Brooks
Sure, Tim Tebow did it again, but what about Eli Manning? All he did was bring the Giants back from a 15-point deficit to beat the division-leading Cowboys 37-34, on the road and in primetime.

By Matt Brooks  |  12:24 PM ET, 12/12/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:22 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Flyers’ Chris Pronger ruled out indefinitely with concussion-like symptoms
By Matt Brooks
On Friday the Philadelphia Flyers announced veteran defenseman Chris Pronger will be out indefinitely as he deals with “concussion-like symptoms,” confirming what many suspected when the former Hart Trophy winner missed four games with an unnamed “virus”.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:22 PM ET, 12/09/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:10 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Report: Dwight Howard requests trade to Nets; will NBA allow it?
By Matt Brooks
Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard is expected to request a trade to the New Jersey Nets, but with the outrage on both sides of the nixed Chris Paul to the Lakers deal still simmering, what’s to say the NBA won’t block that move, too?

By Matt Brooks  |  01:10 PM ET, 12/09/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:58 PM ET, 12/09/2011

Reports: Brandon Roy will retire due to chronic knee injuries
By Matt Brooks
After a pair of arthroscopic surgeries on his chronically-damaged knees last January, Portland Trail Blazers guard Brandon Roy will reportedly retire

By Matt Brooks  |  12:58 PM ET, 12/09/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:50 PM ET, 12/08/2011

Report: Caron Butler to sign with Clippers
By Matt Brooks
Free agent forward Caron Butler, who was sidelined during the Dallas Mavericks’ run to their first NBA title, has reportedly agreed in principal to a three-year, $24 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:50 PM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:16 PM ET, 12/08/2011

Free agent SS Jimmy Rollins could see more interest after Albert Pujols signing
By Matt Brooks
When Pujols turned down a reported $220 million offer from St. Louis, he left the Cardinals with a heap of money to invest elsewhere — which could lead them to Philadelphia free agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:16 PM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:09 PM ET, 12/08/2011

Report: Tyson Chandler nearing deal with Knicks
By Matt Brooks
According to multiple reports, the New York Knicks are closing in on a deal with free-agent center Tyson Chandler.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:09 PM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:42 PM ET, 12/08/2011

C.J. Wilson joins Albert Pujols with Angels
By Matt Brooks
Hours after landing free agent first baseman Albert Pujols with a 10-year, $250 million contract offer, the Angels snatched up one of the top starting pitchers on the market in lefty C.J. Wilson.

By Matt Brooks  |  12:42 PM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:49 AM ET, 12/08/2011

Tim Tebow asked to pray for Jay Cutler’s thumb by Chicago reporter
By Matt Brooks
On a Wednesday conference call to set up Denver’s Sunday matchup with the Bears, one member of the Chicago media asked Tebow to say a prayer for Bears quarterback Jay Cutler’s injured thumb.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:49 AM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:33 AM ET, 12/08/2011

Shane Battier tweets he’ll sign with the Heat
By Matt Brooks
In a series of four tweets on Thursday morning, Battier announced he will join James and the Miami Heat, stopping short of saying “taking his talents to South Beach.”

By Matt Brooks  |  10:33 AM ET, 12/08/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:50 PM ET, 12/07/2011

Sidney Crosby to miss Penguins’ next two games
By Matt Brooks
Sidney Crosby did not accompany Pittsburgh on its road trip to Philadelphia for Thursday’s game and will also miss the team’s Saturday date at the New York Islanders as a precaution.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:50 PM ET, 12/07/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:08 PM ET, 12/07/2011

ESPN reporter Erin Andrews refiles $10 million lawsuit in peephole videotape incident
By Matt Brooks
ESPN reporter Erin Andrews has refiled her lawsuit against the man who pleaded guilty to videotaping her while naked through a peephole and the Nashville Marriott where the incident took place in 2008.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:08 PM ET, 12/07/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:12 PM ET, 12/07/2011

Cash-strapped Mets trade Angel Pagan to Giants, bolster bullpen
By Matt Brooks
The New York Mets traded outfielder Angel Pagan to the San Francisco Giants in exchange for outfielder Andres Torres and reliever Ramon Ramirez and also added free agent pitchers Frank Francisco and Jon Rauch.

By Matt Brooks  |  01:12 PM ET, 12/07/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:34 AM ET, 12/07/2011

Report: Albert Pujols gets 10-year, $220 million offer from Cardinals
By Matt Brooks
The St. Louis Cardinals were not going to sit idly by and watch Miami Marlins snatch up one of the best players in franchise history. They’ve reportedly bumped up their offer to Albert Pujols to up to $220 million over 10 years.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:34 AM ET, 12/07/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 05:18 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Green Bay Packers selling stock shares to support 12-0 franchise
By Matt Brooks
For the first time in 14 years, the Green Bay Packers are selling shares of stock for one of the league’s most storied franchises.

By Matt Brooks  |  05:18 PM ET, 12/06/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:09 PM ET, 12/06/2011

UEFA Champions League: Chelsea, Valencia meet with round of 16 berth on the line
By Matt Brooks
A Group E clash between Chelsea and Valencia sets up as the day’s most intriguing contest with the winner advancing to the knockout rounds of the UEFA Champions League.

By Matt Brooks  |  02:09 PM ET, 12/06/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:55 PM ET, 12/06/2011

Report: Albert Pujols gets 10-year contract offer from Marlins
By Matt Brooks
Suddenly active Miami Marlins looking to make biggest free agent splash yet by signing nine-time All-Star first baseman Albert Pujols.

By Matt Brooks  |  12:55 PM ET, 12/06/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:59 PM ET, 12/05/2011

Sugar Bowl picks Virginia Tech, Michigan as BCS snubs Boise State, Arkansas, Kansas State
By Matt Brooks
While Michigan and Virginia Tech were celebrating their Sugar Bowl matchup, Boise State, Kansas State, Arkansas and several other teams were left out in the cold by the perpetually-flawed BCS system.

By Matt Brooks  |  03:59 PM ET, 12/05/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:46 AM ET, 12/05/2011

Kyle Orton and the Chiefs’ $2.5 million flea flicker
By Matt Brooks
Kyle Orton made his Kansas City Chiefs debut on Sunday. It lasted all of one play: a flea flicker that resulted in a dislocated finger and the end of Orton’s afternoon.

By Matt Brooks  |  09:46 AM ET, 12/05/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 05:40 PM ET, 12/02/2011

Pac 12 Championship: UCLA vs. Oregon matchup could be a blowout
By Matt Brooks
The first installment of the Pac-12 Championship pits No. 8 Oregon against fired head coach Rick Neuheisel and overmatched UCLA. This should be a doozy.

By Matt Brooks  |  05:40 PM ET, 12/02/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:41 PM ET, 12/02/2011

With Peyton Manning’s neck healing, will winless Colts aim for Andrew Luck?
By Matt Brooks
Peyton Manning’s slow recovery from spinal fusion surgery has the Colts considering taking Stanford‘s Andrew Luck with the top pick in the 2012 draft, but would keeping both quarterbacks make financial sense?

By Matt Brooks  |  04:41 PM ET, 12/02/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:27 AM ET, 12/02/2011

Andy Reid in trouble? DeSean Jackson, Eagles face questions after loss to Seahawks
By Matt Brooks
With Thursday’s 31-14 throttling at the hands of Marshawn Lynch and the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia fell to 4-8 — all but ending their slim postseason hopes and sparking a slew of questions for the future of the franchise.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:27 AM ET, 12/02/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:27 PM ET, 12/01/2011

Report: Hornets PG Chris Paul requests trade to Knicks
By Matt Brooks
According to a report from Yahoo! Sports, New Orleans Hornets All-Star point guard Chris Paul requested a trade to the New York Knicks through his agent on Wednesday.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:27 PM ET, 12/01/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:29 AM ET, 12/01/2011

Mike Leach finally lands new head coaching job at Washington State
By Matt Brooks
After two years in football purgatory, former Texas Tech coach Mike Leach finally got his second chance when he agreed in principle to a five-year contract to be the head coach of Washington State.

By Matt Brooks  |  11:29 AM ET, 12/01/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
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Posted at 04:49 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Seahawks place WR Sidney Rice on injured reserve
By Matt Brooks
A second head injury in three weeks will land under-producing Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Sidney Rice on injured reserve, ending his season.

By Matt Brooks  |  04:49 PM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:24 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Jerry Sandusky scandal: First civil lawsuit is filed
By Cindy Boren
Plaintiff alleges the former Penn State coach abused him over 100 times between 1992 and 1996, says he met Sandusky through his Second Mile charity.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:24 PM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:55 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Report: Rajon Rondo could be dealt as Celtics target Chris Paul
By Matt Brooks
SportsIllustrated.com is reporting Celtics general manager Danny Ainge “is highly motivated” to bring Chris Paul to Boston — even if it requires dealing Rajon Rondo.

By Matt Brooks  |  12:55 PM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 11/30/2011

Syracuse scandal: Jim Boeheim answers questions, isn’t worried about his job
By Cindy Boren
Long-time coach of the Orange cautions that the investigation into Bernie Fine’s action is still ongoing, but says that the university is bigger than the basketball coach. “If I was gone today, this program would be fine.”

By Cindy Boren  |  12:00 PM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:49 AM ET, 11/30/2011

Ohio State crushes Duke as Big Ten gets jump on ACC
By Matt Brooks
Ohio State’s 85-63 throttling of Duke in Tuesday’s marquee matchup capped a night that saw the Big Ten grab a 4-2 lead and once again expose the once-dominant ACC for its lack of top-to-bottom depth.

By Matt Brooks  |  10:49 AM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:31 AM ET, 11/30/2011

Bobby Valentine is pick to manage Red Sox; will drama follow? (updated)
By Cindy Boren
Former Rangers, Mets manager could be named to succeed Terry Francona this week — despite a contentious history with his general manager in New York.

By Cindy Boren  |  09:31 AM ET, 11/30/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:16 PM ET, 11/29/2011

Jim Boeheim gets vote of confidence from Syracuse chancellor
By Cindy Boren
Long-time coach has been under fire for his comments about and support of Bernie Fine, the fired assistant who’s accused of child molestation. Source tells ESPN he’s “not going to resign.”

By Cindy Boren  |  04:16 PM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:03 PM ET, 11/29/2011

Ndamukong Suh suspended two games for Thanksgiving stomp (updated)
By Cindy Boren
Past incidents involving Detroit Lions defensive lineman factored into the decision to punish him for stepping on a Green Bay Packers offensive lineman. Suh will appeal.

By Cindy Boren  |  04:03 PM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:19 PM ET, 11/29/2011

Jaguars fire Jack Del Rio; which NFL coach will be next?
By Cindy Boren
Among NFL coaches on the hot seat are Norv Turner, Steve Spagnuolo, Tony Sparano, Jim Caldwell, Andy Reid, Todd Haley and Tom Coughlin. And the first name always mentioned as a hire? Bill Cowher.

By Cindy Boren  |  03:19 PM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:42 PM ET, 11/29/2011

Penn State scandal: Search committee formed to find Joe Paterno’s successor
By Cindy Boren
School seeks to hire a football coach for the first time in 47 years; Mississippi State’s Dan Mullen reportedly tops list of candidates.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:42 PM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:42 PM ET, 11/29/2011

Rick Neuheisel is out at UCLA, but Diddy’s son is still in
By Cindy Boren
Justin Combs, a cornerback from Iona Prep, intends to honor his commitment to the Bruins. “My love for UCLA is so strong, I trust and know that everything will work out,” he says.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:42 PM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 08:45 AM ET, 11/29/2011

Drew Brees continues his pursuit of Dan Marino; should the Packers fear the Saints?
By Cindy Boren
New Orleans’ quarterback could set an all-time passing yardage record and his team just might have the best chance of any in the NFC at challenging Green Bay’s supremacy.

By Cindy Boren  |  08:45 AM ET, 11/29/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:01 PM ET, 11/28/2011

Rick Neuheisel fired as UCLA coach
By Cindy Boren
School will announce that coach is out after four years and 50-0 loss to USC. Neuheisel is expected to coach in conference title game this weekend.

By Cindy Boren  |  03:01 PM ET, 11/28/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:17 PM ET, 11/28/2011

Tony Stewart names Steve Addington his crew chief
By Cindy Boren
NASCAR champion had told Darian Grubb they’d be parting after the season, so move comes as no surprise. Grubb now considers his options.

By Cindy Boren  |  02:17 PM ET, 11/28/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:23 PM ET, 11/28/2011

Jim Boeheim’s future: Will Syracuse coach survive Bernie Fine scandal?
By Cindy Boren
University fires long-time coach’s trusted assistant over child sex-abuse allegations and, this time, the coach doesn’t issue a vigorous defense of his old friend.

By Cindy Boren  |  12:23 PM ET, 11/28/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 08:00 AM ET, 11/28/2011

Urban Meyer accepts Ohio State job, agent says (updated)
By Cindy Boren
Former Florida coach will be named coach of the Buckeyes after taking a break from coaching because of health and family concerns.

By Cindy Boren  |  08:00 AM ET, 11/28/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 06:19 AM ET, 11/28/2011

After Jason Witten collided with Cowboys cheerleader, her Twitter account disappears
By Cindy Boren
Melissa Kellerman’s tweets and account are deleted after she posted two innocent-sounding comments about Thanksgiving Day collision. Team denies ordering her to delete the account.

By Cindy Boren  |  06:19 AM ET, 11/28/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:57 PM ET, 11/27/2011

Ndamukong Suh suspension likely to be in one-to-two game range, reports say
By Cindy Boren
ESPN, Fox say Detroit Lions defensive lineman will learn the NFL’s punishment for his Thanksgiving Day stomp early this week.

By Cindy Boren  |  12:57 PM ET, 11/27/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:50 AM ET, 11/26/2011

Ndamukong Suh apologizes as Lions weigh in and NFL says it will review incident
By Cindy Boren
A little more than 24 hours after he stomped on an opponent, Detroit’s star defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh expresses remorse.

By Cindy Boren  |  10:50 AM ET, 11/26/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:02 AM ET, 11/26/2011

NBA lockout: Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Blake Griffin react to deal (updated)
By Cindy Boren
No more Muppet movies or flag football games. No more deals to play abroad. The NBA is heading back to work and players are pretty darn happy about it.

By Cindy Boren  |  10:02 AM ET, 11/26/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:06 PM ET, 11/25/2011

Jason Witten tackles a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader
By Cindy Boren
The player’s fine. The cheerleader’s fine. And, importantly, the cheerleader in question is not the one who dates Bills wide receiver David Nelson.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:06 PM ET, 11/25/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:38 AM ET, 11/25/2011

LSU vs. Arkansas: No. 1 Tigers are undefeated; No. 3 Razorbacks are on a roll
By Cindy Boren
Game is Death Valley’s biggest since 1959 with Les Miles’ team aiming for a BCS title-game berth. Arkansas plays emotional game after death of freshman tight end Garrett Uekman.

By Cindy Boren  |  11:38 AM ET, 11/25/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:42 AM ET, 11/25/2011

Ndamukong Suh: Misunderstood or just dirty? Will he be suspended for ejection in Lions’ loss?
By Cindy Boren
Detroit lineman Ndamukong Suh pushed Packers’ guard into turf and did the most famous stomp since Albert Haynesworth.

By Cindy Boren  |  09:42 AM ET, 11/25/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:10 PM ET, 11/23/2011

Kyle Orton goes to Kansas Chiefs on waiver claim (updated)
By Cindy Boren
Former Broncos quarterback stays in the AFC West — and will see his former team in the regular-season finale Jan. 1.

By Cindy Boren  |  04:10 PM ET, 11/23/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:35 PM ET, 11/23/2011

Report: Jerry Sandusky family member made recent allegation, lawyer says
By Cindy Boren
Accusation is one of two under investigation by Pennsylvania’s Children and Youth Services because alleged victim is under 18. Sandusky lawyer denies allegations.

By Cindy Boren  |  03:35 PM ET, 11/23/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:50 PM ET, 11/23/2011

Matt Schaub out for the season; Texans add former Redskin Kellen Clemens
By Cindy Boren
Houston picks up Clemens because of his experience with Kyle and Mike Shanahan; the Texans run the same system.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:50 PM ET, 11/23/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:43 AM ET, 11/23/2011

Rex Ryan uses Mark Brunell to try to motivate Mark Sanchez
By Cindy Boren
When the Jets were struggling last year, the coach gave the former Redskins quarterback snaps with the first team. Now, he’s trying it again. With the Jets at 5-5, will it work?

By Cindy Boren  |  10:43 AM ET, 11/23/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:44 AM ET, 11/23/2011

Jerry Sandusky, attorney barred from publicly naming victim
By Cindy Boren
Judge says identity of Victim One cannot be revealed although victim’s name is in court documents. Sandusky’s next court appearance is Dec. 13.

By Cindy Boren  |  09:44 AM ET, 11/23/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:06 PM ET, 11/22/2011

Report: Jerry Sandusky investigated for two new allegations in which victims are still under 18
By Cindy Boren
If allegations are credible, cases would be first involving victims who are still children. Former Penn State coach has been charged with 40 counts of child sexual abuse of victims who are now adults.

By Cindy Boren  |  04:06 PM ET, 11/22/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:23 PM ET, 11/22/2011

Penn State scandal: Sandusky lawyer anticipates more charges; Paterno’s power was questioned
By Cindy Boren
Joe Amendola tells ABC News he believes bail may be revoked and his client may be placed in jail; former university disciplinarian reveals memos she wrote criticizing power wielded by legendary coach of Nittany Lions.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:23 PM ET, 11/22/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:18 AM ET, 11/22/2011

Sidney Crosby returns and it’s as if he never left
By Cindy Boren
Penguins center, who missed nearly a year because of a concussion, has two goals and two assists in a 5-0 win over the New York Islanders.

By Cindy Boren  |  10:18 AM ET, 11/22/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 08:42 AM ET, 11/22/2011

Arizona announces Rich Rodriguez hiring on Twitter
By Cindy Boren
Athletic Director Greg Byrne tweets a photo of Rodriguez with “And the new Arizona football coach and his family is ... .“ A press conference — far more official — is scheduled for today.

By Cindy Boren  |  08:42 AM ET, 11/22/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 04:11 PM ET, 11/21/2011

Report: Tom Brady has a bone bruise near his elbow
By Cindy Boren
New England Patriots quarterback reportedly hurt his arm in game against Dallas. Injury reportedly is “minor” but explains the black band he’s been wearing on his forearm.

By Cindy Boren  |  04:11 PM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 03:33 PM ET, 11/21/2011

Runners who died in Philadelphia marathon are identified, but cause of death is not certain
By Cindy Boren
A 20-year-old student and 40-year-old man died of what a spokeswoman said were apparent heart attacks, but officials await test results. The race drew a field of 25,000 runners.

By Cindy Boren  |  03:33 PM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:07 PM ET, 11/21/2011

Tony Stewart wins NASCAR Sprint Cup and now needs a crew chief
By Cindy Boren
Darian Grubb, who played a key role in driver’s victory over Carl Edwards in Ford 400, is out after Stewart wins his third championship.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:07 PM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:30 AM ET, 11/21/2011

Giants-Eagles: Vince Young to the dream team’s rescue
By Cindy Boren
With Mike Vick nursing broken ribs, Philly turns to backup, who delivers a win that may have saved the season — and taken some heat off his coach.

By Cindy Boren  |  11:30 AM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:58 AM ET, 11/21/2011

Jay Cutler has broken thumb, will have surgery (updated)
By Cindy Boren
Chicago Bears quarterback hurt his hand making a tackle after throwing an interception. Caleb Hanie steps up for 7-3 team, which will also look for help from a veteran..

By Cindy Boren  |  09:58 AM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 09:58 AM ET, 11/21/2011

Rex Ryan fined $75,000 by NFL for profanity
By Cindy Boren
New York Jets coach told a fan to “shut the [expletive] up” during halftime of team’s loss to New England Patriots on Nov. 13.

By Cindy Boren  |  09:58 AM ET, 11/21/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 01:02 PM ET, 11/20/2011

NFL Week 11 live: Ray Lewis out, Adam “Pacman” Jones in; Steelers meet with commissioner
By Cindy Boren
Vince Young starts over an injured Mike Vick for Philadelphia, where Andy Reid finds he’s on the hot seat. Jeremy Maclin also is out vs. New York Giants.

By Cindy Boren  |  01:02 PM ET, 11/20/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 02:08 PM ET, 11/18/2011

Syracuse Coach Jim Boeheim defends assistant Bernie Fine
By Cindy Boren
Coach questions motives of accusers, who say they were molested by long time coach at the university. Fine is on administrative leave as investigation proceeds.

By Cindy Boren  |  02:08 PM ET, 11/18/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 12:40 PM ET, 11/18/2011

Sepp Blatter says he’s sorry for remarks about racism in soccer
By Cindy Boren
FIFA president says he has no intention of resigning despite widespread and heated criticism over his comments from, among others, British PM, Rio Ferdinand and David Beckham.

By Cindy Boren  |  12:40 PM ET, 11/18/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 11:44 AM ET, 11/18/2011

Report: Ray Lewis to miss Ravens’ game against Bengals
By Cindy Boren
Linebacker, who hasn’t missed a game since 2007, suffered toe injury in loss to Seahawks, may miss more than just this weekend's game. His coach says, “You can’t count Ray out.”

By Cindy Boren  |  11:44 AM ET, 11/18/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:13 AM ET, 11/18/2011

Tim Tebow works more fourth-quarter magic
By Cindy Boren
Denver is 4-1 behind its better-late-than-never quarterback after his game-winning run beats Jets.

By Cindy Boren  |  10:13 AM ET, 11/18/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead

Posted at 10:55 PM ET, 11/17/2011

Bernie Fine, Syracuse assistant coach, reportedly put on leave
By Terri Rupar
Bernie Fine, an assistant coach for the Syracuse basketball team, has been accused of molesting a team ball boy, and police are investigating, ESPN is reporting.

By Terri Rupar  |  10:55 PM ET, 11/17/2011 |  Permalink  |  Comments ( 0)
Categories:  The Early Lead