Jake Coker looks like quarterback Alabama can win big games with

Published on Oct. 24, 2015

Maybe its so hard to embrace this Alabama team because theyre unlike any other under Nick Saban.

Theyre not what we think they should be; theyre not who they want to be.Yet they keep finding ways to win in the most difficult of circumstances.

WHAT WE LEARED: Clemson-Miami|Arkansas-Auburn| Baylor-Iowa State

This time it was a tired team, a group that played eight straight weeks the last five with the season on the line after a crushing home loss to Ole Miss and looked like it. They were sluggish and slow and stumbling through missed plays, and even the foundation of the team (tailback Derrick Henry) couldnt save them.

So Jake Coker did.

The Tides greatest weakness this fall became its saving strength in a 19-14 grinding victory over rival Tennessee. When Alabama couldnt run with consistency; when the Vols had taken the lead and seized momentum, Coker and the passing game stole it back with a handful of critical plays when the Tide needed it most.

Two beautifully thrown fades from Coker to wideouts Calvin Ridley and ArDarius Stewart set up Henry for a game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter to keep the Tide alive in the race for the College Football Playoff.

The team that goes out every week with the knowledge that one loss ends the season both the SEC Championship and College Football Playoffraces continues to find ways to win. Coker has been just decent for much of the season, with more misses than hits.

This time around he completed 21-of-27 passes for 247 yards, an efficient, careful game for a player who had yet to put his mark on the season. Maybe now he has had his Greg McElroy/AJ McCarron moment, the point where a caretaker of a quarterback becomes a player the offense can rely on.

McElroy and McCarron each had their moments late in their first seasons as starters, and Coker might have just gotten his a few games sooner and just in time. Alabama gets a bye week before returning on Nov. 7 to play LSU, the team like no other on the schedule that has the athletes to matchup with the Tide and end their season.

For weeks weve thought that at some point, a team would stop Henry and force the Tide to win with Coker. The Vols did just that, limiting Henry from taking over the game (he still had 143 yards and 2 TDs on 28 carries) and making Alabama use Coker on the biggest drive of the game.

Coker responded by hitting two key fade throws for 44 yards and setting up Henrys game-winning touchdown.

Im ready for whatever the schedule says, Coker told CBS moments after the game.

And Alabama might just be ready for anything else the rest of the season because Jake Coker is now a quarterback the Tide can rely on.

Source: http://www.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football-news/4659140-alabama-beats-tennessee-nick-saban-sec-championship-playoff-jake-coker-derrick-henry

Continue Reading ..

Stanford football 2015: Talking Washington Huskies with UW Dawg Pound

Looking ahead to Saturday"s contest with Washington with the guys who know them best.

We sat down with Kirk DeGrasse of UW Dawg Pound to discuss Washington Husky football prior to Saturday"s clash at Stanford Stadium

_____________________

1. With Josh Rosen garnering so much attention, Jake Browning has slipped under the radar with a very impressive campaign as a true freshman. What should we expect to see out of Browning should he be healthy to go Saturday? How big an impact will his absence be, should he be held out with his recently injured shoulder?

Browning has flashed his potential at times, particularly vs. Utah State. At his best, he"ll be a QB that shows terrific anticipation and accuracy and the ability to read the defense to make the right pre-snap reads and adjustments and decisions on his run/pass options. But he"s adjusting with the speed of the college game and with not having a terrific OL that allows him all kinds of time in the pocket. He"s also not getting a lot of help from his wide receivers, which is why you see a TE and a RB leading the team in receiving yards. It"s hard to say what we"ll see if he can"t go. K.J. Carta-Samuels has barely played and Jeff Lindquist has been used almost exclusively as a glorified wildcat QB since his start against Hawaii last year. Both KJCS and Lindquist are bigger and better runners than Browning, so they could potentially provide a legitimate running option on the read-option plays. Lindquist was noted for being the "safest" of the quarterbacks in the spring and fall camps, taking the easy underneath completions and being the least prone to risky throws.

2. In an ever competitive Pac-12, Washington has lost three games by a score or less. We Stanford fans became painfully aware of how difficult it can be to lose by such a small margin in 2014. How close is this team to being a major player in the conference?

When you consider how much youth and inexperience there is throughout the 2-deeps, it"s exciting to think of the growth potential for this team - not just next year, but over the remainder of the season. The defense is playing at an elite level right now (#7 in both FEI and S&P) and the special teams have been a net plus (#22 by FEI), so it"s been the struggles of the offense that have held this team back. As the offense continues to gain experience and develop, it wouldn"t take a huge bump in their play to turn some of these close losses into wins. By next year the Huskies could (and probably should) be major players in the conference race.

3. Offensively, Washington certainly has some players. Myles Gaskin is averaging 6.3 yards per carry while Browning has been solid throwing the ball. Who are some other players we should keep an eye on?

If Dwayne Washington is able to play, he"s the fastest player on the roster (with John Ross out for the year) and has big-play potential as a back and a receiver. Josh Perkins is the most consistent receiving threat, a guy Browning will often go to down the seam on run/pass option package plays. Jaydon Mickens can be maddeningly inconsistent with his drops, but he"s a jitterbug receiver that can make big plays in space. Darrell Daniels is another big WR converted to TE (like Perkins), and he"s got outstanding speed, but he hasn"t been targeted much yet in his career; if they can get him one-on-one against a LB though, he"s going to win those footraces.

4. Defensively, the Huskies have looked very solid. Is defense the strength of this team? What has made them so successful in the first half of the year?

Defense has definitely been the cornerstone of this team so far this year. What makes them so good is they are playing so well at all three levels of the defense and they have multiple playmakers in each position group. They also have enough depth that they"ve been able to rotate in the 2"s without much drop-off, allowing the 1"s to not have to play 70-80 snaps per game. They are executing their assignments, and aside from some tackling issues vs. Boise State and Cal and losing receivers in scramble drills vs. Oregon, they"ve played fundamentally sound.

5. On a scale from 1 to Oregon, how sick are you of these night games?

Well, it"s getting to the point of Oregon for me on these night games. While I don"t hate the idea of a night game, the hassle of getting to and from the games in the dark and increasingly poor weather as the season goes on isn"t much fun, and now that my 5-year old son is going with me to games, these late starts are now that much more of a pain. We just found out we"re hosting an8PMstart time Halloween night against Arizona, and that"s obviously causing a lot of outcry - really tough for families that bring kids to the games to forego trick-or-treating that night.

6. What"s your prediction for the game?

I think Washington has a puncher"s chance simply because of our defense and special teams. But the uncertainty at QB on top of an already struggling offense makes it hard to predict a win. I"m expecting a defensive slog, but short of a big edge in turnovers favoring the Huskies, I think Stanford wins something along the lines of 27-17.

__________

Want more info before Saturday"s game? Check outUW Dawg Pound or follow them on Twitter@UWonSBN!

Source: http://www.ruleoftree.com/2015/10/23/9586554/q-and-a-with-uw-dawg-pound

Continue Reading ..

Mega Millions numbers for Oct. 6: Jackpot increases to $65M

LANSING, MI -- No one matched the winning Mega Millions numbers on Oct. 2, 2015, increasing the next jackpot to $65 million.

The Mega Millions numbers for Oct. 6: 17-58-63-64-66

The Gold Mega Ball: 13

The Megaplier: 3

Mega Millions winners (Oct. 6):

No one matched the five white b***s which would have paid $1 million.

21 players matched 4 White b***s, with the Gold Mega Ball, winning $5,000 with three players including the Megaplier boosting their win to $15,000.

More than 300,000 players won at least $2.

Mega Millions drawings are held Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. Five b***s are drawn from a set of b***s numbered 1 through 75; the Mega ball is drawn from a set of b***s numbered 1 through 15. The odds of winning the jackpot is 1 in 259 million.

Mega Millions is played in 44 states, plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Tickets cost $1 each.

In other Michigan lottery news:

Tonight"s Powerball jackpot is $50 million. The last winner was a ticket holder from Three Rivers, Michigan who won a huge $310.5 million jackpot on Sept. 30, 2015. The drawing is at 10:59 p.m. Deadline is 9:45 p.m.

Tonight"s Lotto 47 jackpot is $4.05 million. The drawing is 7:29 p.m. Deadline 7:08 p.m. The last winner was a ticket holder from g*****d, who won $13.09 million on July 22.

Tonight"s Fantasy 5 jackpot is $100,000. The daily drawing is also 7:29 p.m. Deadline 7:08 p.m.

The Michigan Lottery has joined a new draw game with 14 other states, "Lucky for Life." Tickets are on sale now. The drawings are Mondays and Thursdays. The top prize is $1,000 a day for life.

The official Michigan Lottery site offers more information on instant tickets, raffles and other lottery games.

Todd Chance is the West Michigan Entertainment Concierge for MLive/Grand Rapids Press. Email him at tchance@mlive.com or follow him on Facebook , Twitter, Google Plus

Source: http://www.mlive.com/lottery/index.ssf/2015/10/mega_millions_numbers_for_oct_9.html

Continue Reading ..

Sarah Silverman taps into tumultuous childhood to deliver "I Smile Back"

Sarah Silverman is the mystery who sat behind you in high school, the quirky girl with the dagger wit and the pale, pretty face who could be a good friend but shame you quick if you misbehaved on a date.

Her humor is crass and penetrating, as if she were a provocative adolescent with an expansive, naughty vocabulary free-associating while clicking through TV channels. Of the current Republican presidential candidates: "It"s like the bar of crazy aliens in "Star Wars." " Such observations glide on a voice of sly inflection, teasing out syllables and letting them ride toward jokes that land with revelation or revulsion.

"I can"t be that careful. I"m not for everyone," she said the other day as dark clouds rolled toward a rooftop cabana in West Hollywood. "I go with my gut, and I go with what I think is funny, but my gut and what I think is funny changes with time. ... I"m not very good at selling myself. It kills me inside."

See the most-read stories in Entertainment this hour >>

Silverman"s new film, "I Smile Back," is something of a vanishing act for an actor whose identity has long been defined by her explicit stand-up comedy. Silverman plays Laney, a suburban mother whose well-tended exterior masks depression, drug addiction, adultery and a gradual, then very sudden, undoing. Laney seeks neither redemption nor absolution, only the addict"s recognition of the broken soul she has become.

Silverman suffered depression as a child growing up in New Hampshire. By the time she was 14, she was prescribed four Xanax four times a day.

"I was kind of numb, I guess," she said. "It didn"t fix me in any way."

Her first psychiatrist hanged himself; the hypnotist her parents hired to stop her bed-wetting told her of his death. Her years of depression and prescription meds were drawn on for "I Smile Back," which demanded a deeper, more complex performance than previous roles.

"I don"t have easy access to my emotions," she admitted. "They"re very tightly packed and compartmentalized. But for this part, they had to be on the surface. A really big director I admire told me once, "You"re really good, but I"ll never cast you in anything because you"re Sarah Silverman. People are too familiar with you. You"re like a personality. I need actors that people can get lost in." I couldn"t argue with him [she fake pouts] other than give me a chance."

The daughter of the manager of a factory outlet, Silverman, 44, is one of the best comics of her generation, defying boundaries and drilling into racism, sexism, religion and other incendiary topics with a whining, petulant persona that is also strangely sweet. Expletives dart like ferrets through sentences, and her deadpan delivery of one-liners carries a charge: "I was raped by a doctor, which is so bittersweet for a Jewish girl," she said in her 2005 concert movie, "Jesus Is Magic."

Adam Salky, director of "I Smile Back," was convinced Silverman was right for Laney after revisiting her small, memorable performances as an overbearing girlfriend in "School of Rock" and an alcoholic sister in "Take This Waltz." It helped that Silverman"s autobiography, "The Bedwetter: Stories of Courage, Redemption and Pee," which explored her early depression, gave her the instincts for a woman in turmoil.

"Sarah has a pool of emotional and intellectual depth," Salky said. "You put the camera on her and let it run."

That inclination came to mind the other day at the hotel cabana where Silverman, jeans tucked into boots and wearing a brown blazer, bent over a chair to turn down house music blaring from a speaker. The manager intervened; the music died, and Silverman, a woman you could play stickball with or take to the Ritz, settled onto a cushion whose stains she pondered with a degree of perversion.

"Jack Nicholson said something great," she said, channeling Nicholson"s voice and mannerisms. "He"s like, "If I ever take on a scene and the director has a different take, I always go with the director and then I don"t become predictable." He is someone who will always have his face and his voice and be specifically him. But he does disappear into roles. He"s an astronaut, a mobster. That inspired me."

Her humor is calibrated to the times, especially these days with the presidential campaign going full throttle and candidates trundling across the nation like a beguiling smorgasbord. She said Hillary Rodham Clinton is "strong and bold on women"s issues," including equal pay, an enduring topic in Hollywood most recently raised by Jennifer Lawrence. "Women deserve equal pay to men. It seems so trite to say it," Silverman said. "It"s bizarre."

But she"s passionate about Bernie Sanders, who, like her, is another New England Jew who speaks his mind even if it"s always not popular.

"Bernie is the only politician not for sale," she said. "Look, I love Hillary too, but Goldman-Sachs owns her. She might as well be wearing race car driver [logos]. ... Everybody"s for sale, and here"s this guy who"s been a senator for a million years from Vermont who is just simply not for sale." She lowered her voice and smiled, "When I met him I said, "Keep the Jewish thing down for as long as you can.""

She wrings both glee and contempt from Republican candidates: "Trump"s out of his mind, but he"s been great in terms of exposing the realities of politics," she said. "Greed, money, addiction."

Silverman has more than 7 million Twitter followers and recently referred to herself as "the Sylvia Plath of social media." She finds both rage and insight in the messages that scrawl across her screen. She responds only occasionally and with disarming politeness to attacks on her political or social views online.

"People are so brave and angry from their mother"s basement," she said. "Their avatars are always like animations of themselves with muscles and guns. ... But it"s amazing that if you give these people love, they"re far more open. It taught me a lot about making points and trying to change minds."

But she doesn"t believe that social media or its gadgets, such as iPhones, need to be so pervasive, notably during her stand-ups at colleges, where she often looks out at to the glow of cellphones.

"Stand-up comedy is about connection and looking in people"s eyes. This sea of empty vessels in which Facebook expresses itself," she said, "it"s uninspiring. ... And when they make an announcement and you still see it, then it hurts. That"s how badly you want a fuzzy, [expletive] video of me for your stupid Facebook page."

Source: http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-mn-sarah-silverman-i-smile-back-20151023-story.html

Continue Reading ..

Watch: Sarah Silverman talks about getting high with her parents

________________________________________________________

Sarah Silverman shares her weedy family memories on Conan

Last night on Conan, Sarah Silverman told a few stories of the times shes smoked weed with her parents.

Its a pretty funny little interview. Silverman recalls a time she split an edible pot product with her step mother at a bar mitzvah, and her stepmom was sure she could smell colors.

Another time Silverman offered a bong hit to her father, who took it like a champ.

________________________________________________________

Watch:Sarah Silvermans aarijuana adventures with her parents

Source: http://extract.suntimes.com/culture/10/153/5983/sarah-silverman-talks-about-getting-high-with-her-parents-conan-show/

Continue Reading ..

CBS" "Supergirl" is rare female superhero, embracing her powers

Melissa Benoist and Mehcad Brooks, stars of CBS" "Supergirl" (Monday, 8:30 p.m. ET/PT), give USA TODAY"s Bill Keveney a peek at what"s in store for the first season. Robert Hanashiro, USA TODAY

Melissa Benoist plays the title character in CBS" "Supergirl."(Photo: Matthias Clamer, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.)

BURBANK, Calif. Watch out, villains! Superman has a crime-fighting cousin: Supergirl.

The younger hero, a Krypton native who resisted her super powers growing up, embraces them as a 24-year-oldwho protects her earthly home, National City,froman intergalactic criminal onslaught in CBS Supergirl (Monday, 8:30 p.m. ET/PT).

Its all brand new. Shes just happy to use her powers at all, says Melissa Benoist, who plays TVs newest superhero and her alter ego, Kara Danvers, a mild-mannered assistant for a great, metropolitan multimedia empire.

I like to think of this season as a crash course in how to be a superhero, she says. Its about someone learning and understanding who they are and how to harness their strength and use it to be the best possible person they can be.

And to fight nasty villains,save National Cityand try out some very cool powers.

Every time Im flying, Im having a blast, Benoist says on set, clad in her Colleen Atwood-designed outfit, complete with knee-high boots, short skirt and leather cape, all in red, contrasted by a texturedblue jersey sporting theiconic red S.

Kara Danvers (Melissa Benoist), aka Supergirl, right, talks to CatCo colleague James Olsen (Mehcad Brooks) in CBS" "Supergirl."(Photo: Michael Yarish, CBS)

The fun of entering the DC Comics canon cant be underestimated, says Chyler Leigh (Greys Anatomy), who plays Alex Danvers, Kara/Supergirls adoptive sister and a top scientist and operative at a secret agency.

Everybodys inner nerd loves the comics and that whole life, says Leigh, decked out in an all-black agency ensemble complete with a utility belt that might make Batman envious.

Executive producer Greg Berlanti, who"s had success overseeing CW"s DC Comics-inspired Arrow and The Flash, sees a connection between Benoist and Christopher Reeve, who played Superman in Richard Donners 1978 film.

Melissas very optimistic and hopeful, qualities you see in Kara, he says. She exhibits what I think (Reeve) did in terms of that affability and familiarity. When shes Supergirl, its that same innocence that he had as Superman, but still that inherent goodness. Its just so cool to be part of something that honors that tradition."

Chyler Leigh, left, Melissa Benoist and David Harewood star in CBS" "Supergirl."(Photo: Sonja Flemming, CBS)

Supergirls optimism is closer to The Flash than the darker Arrow, Berlanti says.

The mythology is epic. You can go off-planet and (have) flashbacks to Krypton, he says. And the workplace comedy component is different, too. The fact that were able to do a little bit of that screwball comedy (Superman was)able to do so successfully makes it a little different.

In a field long dominated by men, Supergirl provides a superhero role model for girls and young women, but she symbolizes values anyone could admire, Benoist says. That could help on CBS, which offers an opportunity to attract a broader audiencethan the smaller CW, but also greater expectations.

Supergirl is a positive thinker,Benoistsays. Shes all about hope and being good and kindness and doing the right thing, helping others. Its not always all about her.

Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1LSmifY

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2015/10/23/cbs-supergirl-rare-female-superhero-embracing-her-powers/74412628/

Continue Reading ..

NFL Picks Week 7: Greg Olsen, Undefeated Panthers Welcome Eagles

Things are starting to get interesting.

On the football field, disappointing showings by the Atlanta Falcons and Arizona Cardinals have NFL experts rethinking their opinions of the leagues near-elite. In the picking booth, the same is happening to NESN.coms pacesetter.

After blitzing through the first fiveweeks, NESN.coms Ben Watanabe hit his first speed bump in Week 6. A poor week by our leader allowed the other competitors to gain ground for the first time this season, and suddenly were just one slip-up away from having a new No. 1.

Heres how things stack up heading into Week 7:Ben Watanabe: 51-38-2 (Last week: 5-9). Bet on dead-armed Peyton Manning and wild-armed Jay Cutler in the same week. Bad move.Mike Cole: 47-42-2 (Last week: 6-8). Biding his time for a big strike?Ricky Doyle: 47-42-2 (Last week: 7-7). Pulls into a tie for second with a rousing .500 showing last week.

THURSDAY, OCT. 22(-6.5) Seattle Seahawks (2-4) at San Francisco 49ers (2-4), 8:25 p.m. ET Ricky: Seahawks.Seattles in some trouble. That said, the Seahawks schedule hasnt been easy. And while Id side with most other teams in this situation, the 49ers third-worst offense, second-worst defense dont give me much to hang my hat on despite being home and coming off a win. Ben: Seahawks. Thefour teams Seattle has lost to have a combined record of 19-3. The Hawks have also beaten the spread eight times in their last 10 matchups with the Niners. Go 12s.Mike: Seahawks.To add to what Ben mentioned, the Seahawks are actually outscoring opponents by nine points this season, and two of their three road losses have been in overtime, with all three losses coming to teams better than San Fran.

SUNDAY, OCT. 25(-7) Buffalo Bills (3-3) at Jacksonville Jaguars (1-5), 9:30 a.m. Ricky: Bills.A sleep specialist predicted the Jaguars will lose pretty badly after looking at the teams London travel plans. You know who else will lose pretty badly? Anyone who sets their alarm for this game. Recharge your batteries instead. Ben: Bills. Buffalo has its own list of issues, most notably but not limited to its quarterback situation, but few problems in this world reach the heights of Jacksonvilles eternal struggle against the point spread.Mike: Bills.This games in London, so its basically a crapshoot, but the Bills have covered in four of their last five games against the Jags, who objectively speaking stink.

(-2.5) Minnesota Vikings (3-2) at Detroit Lions (1-5), 1 p.m. Ricky: Vikings.It was nice of the Lions to show up last week against the Bears. Now that they got their win out of the system, its time to return to their losing ways. Ben: Vikings. Detroit defied Las Vegas last week by beating the Bears. Hooray! The only thing is, thats the only time in their last six games the Lions beat the spread, and sources out of the Twin Cities tell us the Vikes are honing their Golden Tate Non-Catch Defense just for this matchup.Mike: Vikings.If youve been betting on the Vikings recently, youve made a lot of money. Theyre 9-2 ATS in their last 11 and 5-2 ATS in their last seven road games.

New Orleans Saints (2-4) at (-4.5) Indianapolis Colts (3-3), 1 p.m. Ricky: Colts.Id make a joke about the Colts sillyfake punt attempt against the Patriots. But the fact is: itd probably work against the Saints defense. Ben: Saints. New Orleans is suddenly, strangely effective against the spread, going 3-1 in its last four games in that regard. Its tough to overlook the Colts 11-4-1 ATS record in their last 16 home games, though.Mike: Colts.I hate this game not only because of the spread, but it also feels like this has letdown game written all over it for the Colts after putting so much into the Patriots game last week. Still, the Saints are giving up 32 points per game on the road.

Pittsburgh Steelers (4-2) at Kansas City Chiefs (1-5), 1 p.m. Ricky: Steelers.Pittsburgh ranks fifth in the NFL with just 18 points allowed per game, and Kansas City is coming off a 10-point output on the heels of Jamaal Charles season-ending injury. Plus, the Chiefs are 0-5 straight-up and against the spread in their last five games. Ben: Steelers. Is it me, or is Landry Jones not terrible? Or does he just appear better because he was preceded at quarterback by Mike Vick? Mike: Steelers.Was gonna mention that the Chiefs might have a shot since this games in Kansas City, and then I remembered they lost to Chicago at home.

Houston Texans (2-4) at (-4) Miami Dolphins (2-3), 1 p.m. Ricky: Dolphins.I said last week the Dolphins would enjoy a nice two-game stretch before getting destroyed by the Patriots in Week 8. Im not in the mood to backtrack. Ben: Texans. Traditionally, Texas has owned this matchup, winning the last seven showdowns and beating the spread five times. The Fins are flying high, but the boost of adrenaline a new head coach brings only lasts so long.Mike: Dolphins.Miami committed to the run game last week and was rewarded. Should be the same thing this week against a Houston team thats allowing 128.5 rushing yards in its four losses.

New York Jets (4-1) at (-10) New England Patriots (5-0), 1 p.m. Ricky: Jets.The Jets defense is one of maybe two units in the NFL the other being the Broncos D that could slow the Patriots high-powered offense. The Pats will win. Just not by 10 points. Ben: Jets. This defense is for real, and the Pats injuries on defense and along their offensive line makes this the worst possible time for New England to run into its most bitter rival.Mike: Jets.The Patriots have been favored at home by at least 10 points against the Jets five times since the 2006 season. Theyve covered once.

Cleveland Browns (2-4) at (-7) St. Louis Rams (2-3), 1 p.m. Ricky: Browns.Todd Gurleys a beast. And that scares me in this game. But I have a hard time picking the Rams, whose two wins have been by a combined five points, to cover by anything more than a field goal. Each of the Browns last three losses have been by exactly three points. Ben: Browns.I was all-in on the Rams when they opened at minus-4 1/2, but banking on them being a touchdown better than anybody with a Nick Foles-led offense is too rich for my blood. This one should be closer to a field goal.Mike: Rams.The Rams are coming off the bye and Todd Gurley gets a chance to go up against the NFLs worst rushing defense. So, yeah.

(-4) Atlanta Falcons (5-1) at Tennessee Titans (1-4), 1 p.m. Ricky: Falcons.This spread seems like an overreaction to Atlantas loss last week in New Orleans. Those Thursday night games always are fluky, though. Falcons by a touchdown on the Lords Day. Ben: Falcons. The Dirty Birds are on a two-game ATS losing streak, and its hard to be bullish on a team that just lost to the Saints. Regardless, were instituting a new rule against picking teams that were just embarrassed by the Dolphins and have beat-up quarterbacks.Mike: Falcons.Theres rain in the forecast for Sunday in Nashville, which might turns this into a ground game. Advantage: Falcons.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2-3) at (-3) Washington Redskins (2-4), 1 p.m. Ricky: Redskins.The Bucs rank fifth in the NFL in yards allowed per game (322.8) and 31st in points allowed per game (29.6), so even they cant make up their minds. For a game in which my interest couldnt be lower, Ill side with the home team, which should run the ball in its own barn against Tampa Bays mysterious D. Ben: Redskins. All the numbers point to the Bucs here, which is why its amazingly dumb of me to side with the Skins. But Temple alum Terrance Knighton will celebrate his Owls first top-25 ranking in 36 years by bottling up Doug Martin and the rest will be academic.Mike: Buccaneers.The Redskins have allowed 397 total rushing yards intheir last two games; Doug Martin has rushed for 229 yards in his last two games.

Oakland Raiders (2-3) at (-4) San Diego Chargers (2-4), 4:05 p.m. Ricky: Chargers.Philip Rivers arm might fall off by Week 10. Fortunately, the Chargers have a bye that week, so theyll sew it back on in time for San Diegos Week 11 game against K.C. Ben: Raiders. The Chargers dont cover at home. We repeat: The Chargers dont cover at home. Theyre 0-2 ATS this season and 1-7 ATS in their last eight at Qualcomm. The Raiders are also 7-3 ATS in the last 10 matchups between these division rivals. Just win, baby.Mike: Chargers.The Chargers need a season-saving run. The good news? Their next five opponents enter this week with a combined7-22 record, including this week against a Raiders defense thats allowing 300 passing yards per game.

Dallas Cowboys (2-3) at (-3) New York Giants (3-3), 4:25 p.m. Ricky: Giants.Matt Cassel under center and Christine Michael potentially leading the backfield? Thats enough to make even the biggest Dallas optimist dry heave. Ben: Giants.Mondays stink lingers, but Im still taking the G-Men, because East Rutherford, N.J., is a comfortable enough distance up I-95 fromSouth Philly. Plus,the Cowboys have dropped three straight against the spread. Mike: Giants.The Cowboys are 1-4 in their last five games coming off a bye. How is that even possible?

Philadelphia Eagles (3-3) at (-3) Carolina Panthers (5-0), 8:30 p.m. Ricky: Panthers.Carolina isgetting no love this season. So until that changes, Im rolling with the Panthers, whose defense is good enough to cause problems for the Eagles sporadic offense. Ben: Panthers.These field-goal-at-home spreads for Carolina need to stop. The Panthers are 3-0 ATS this season when the spread is a three pointsor less. Its just too d**n easy. Mike: Panthers.The surprisingly upstart Eagles defense matches up well here, but I just cant take Sam Bradford on the road.

MONDAY, OCT. 26Baltimore Ravens (1-5) at (-9) Arizona Cardinals (4-2), 8:30 p.m. Ricky: Cardinals.Bad news for the Cardinals: Theyve lost two of their last three games after establishing themselves as NFC powerhouses over the first three weeks. Good news for the Cardinals: They beat up on bad teams and ones coming to town Monday night. Ben: Cardinals. Death, taxes and Arizona beating the spread seemed like to only certainties in life in September. Then they dropped two out of three ATS this month, which would give us pause if they werent hosting the hapless Blackbirds. Mike: Cardinals.The Ravens havent covered since Week 1 and face a tough matchup against a Cardinals team looking to bounce back and build on an 8-2 ATS stretch at home.

Thumbnail photo viaJeremy Brevard/USA TODAY Sports Images

Source: http://nesn.com/2015/10/nfl-picks-week-7-greg-olsen-undefeated-panthers-welcome-eagles/

Continue Reading ..

Lea Thompson still owns "Back to the Future" prom dress

Lea Thompson still owns "Back to the Future" prom dress | News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News | WFXL

component-social-facebook_share_api-v2-01

Lea Thompson attends Disney ABC Television Group"s 2015 TCA Summer Press Tour in Beverly Hills, Calif. on Aug. 5, 2015 (FayesVision/WENN)(WENN)

"Back to the Future" star Lea Thompson still owns the pastel pink prom dress her character wore in the film"s Enchantment Under the Sea dance sequence.

Three decades after the film launched a beloved time-travelling franchise, and as fans celebrate Back to the Future Day on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2015, the actress reveals she got to retain her Lorraine Baines outfit and has kept it under lock and key ever since.

"I can"t get in it any more," she tells People. "It was so tight! It was tight at the time, but now it"s really, really tight.

"It was beautifully made, and made to order for me. It"s got a low-drop waist, and the way it was cut was just so beautiful. And it"s still in great shape. I"ve still got the shoes. The shoes are even hard to get on now--my big old feet--from having babies.

"When we shot the big dance--the Enchantment Under the Sea dance--it was so tight, I just took it off. I would wander around in my crinolines and my push-up bra. My mom was just scandalized, because of course there were, like, hundreds of extras, but I didn"t care. I was just walking around without my dress on."

Back to the Future Day marks the exact date in 2015 that Michael J. Fox"s hero, Marty McFly, was transported to in the "Back to the Future" sequel.

This stations Social Feeds are currently unavailable

This stations Facebook Social Feed is currently unavailable

Source: http://wfxl.com/news/entertainment/lea-thompson-still-owns-back-to-the-future-prom-dress

Continue Reading ..

Real Madrid vs. PSG 2015 live stream: How to watch Champions League online

Two super-rich clubs go head-to-head in must-see Champions League action. Who"s coming out on top in Paris?

The Champions League is all about high-profile clashes, and this match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain certainly qualifies. It"s appropriate that this match is being played in Paris, one of the most star-studded and high-profile cities in the world, because you"d be hard pressed to find a matchup packed with more stars of the game than this.

Of course, the two biggest will be Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, two of the most gifted attackers ever to play the game. Both are sublimely skilled and can score from anywhere at any time -- if they start going toe-to-toe and trying to one-up one another, we could be in for an absolute treat.

But they"re hardly the only super-talented players in this match. Edinson Cavani. Luka Modric. Javier Pastore. Toni Kroos. Blaise Matuidi. Sergio Ramos. Thiago Silva. There"s so much incredible talent on display in this match it"s almost impossible for it not to be fantastic. This is going to be something special, and you"ll be doing yourself a favor if you tune in.

Match date/time: Wed., 2:45 p.m. ET, 8:45 p.m. local

Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris, France

TV: FOX Soccer Plus (US - English), FOX Deportes (US - Spanish), beIN Sports (Canada), Canal + France (France), beIN Sports Spain (Spain), BT Sport Extra (U.K.)

Online: If you"re in the United States, you can watch on the FOX Soccer 2 Go subscription service. In Canada, the match will be available on beIN Sports Connect, and the same service will carry the match in Spain. If you"re in England, BT Sport Live Streaming is where you need to look to watch this one online.

Listings via LiveSoccerTV.

Get all kinds of stories, rumors, game coverage, and Vines of dudes getting hit in the beans in your inbox every day.

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2015/10/21/9581437/real-madrid-psg-live-stream-2015-champions-league-watch-online

Continue Reading ..

Qatar raises stake in Syrian conflict with talk of military intervention

Ministerie van Buitenlands

Qatar foreign minister Dr. Khalid Al Attiyah

After years of calling for the overthrow of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Qatar has escalated its rhetoric this week, with a senior official saying Doha would consider using military force to help the Syrian people.

Qatar Foreign Minister Dr. Khalid Al Attiyah made his remarks yesterday in an interview with CNN Arabic, during which he reiterated Qatar preference for a political solution to the Syrian civil war.

However, he went further by saying:

Anything that protects the Syrian people and Syria from partition, we will not spare any effort to carry it out with our Saudi and Turkish brothers, no matter what this is, Al Attiyah said, according to a text of his remarks published in Arabic by Qatars state news agency.

If a military intervention will protect the Syrian people from the brutality of the regime, we will do it, he added.

Syria Civil Defense

Aftermath of Russian airstrike in Syria

While an analyst said its unlikely Qatar would actually send its troops into Syria, the ministers remarks suggest that that the government may increase its support for rebels inside of Syria in response to Russias recent bombing campaign.

Earlier this month, Qatar and its western allies accused Russia of targeting Assads opposition and called on the nation to end its aggression against Syrian rebels and civilians.

In response to Al Attiyahs remarks, supporters of the Syrian government quickly ratcheted up their own rhetoric, warning of grave consequences if Qatar deepened its involvement in the conflict. On Twitter, pro-Syrian Lebanese politician Wiam Wahhab wrote:

Source: http://dohanews.co/qatar-raises-stake-in-syrian-conflict-with-talk-of-military-intervention/

Continue Reading ..

Blue Springs grad an old pro with national anthem

Five years ago, Malena Marcase thought it might be a good idea to learn the Canadian national anthem, "O Canada."I knew that not many people in the area knew the song and it would be a good opportunity to sing it when the Toronto Blue Jays came to Kauffman Stadium, said Marcase, who has been singing "The Star-Spangled Banner" at The K since she was 9. I never thought it would lead to something as special as singing before a playoff game.Marcase, a 2014 graduate of Blue Springs High School who is now a sophomore at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn., sang "O Canada" before the start of Saturdays American League Championship Series game and stayed to watch the Royals score six runs in the seventh inning to claim a 6-3 come-from-behind win over the Toronto Blue Jays.Ive been lucky to see a lot of Royals games because Ive probably sung before 30 or 40 games, she said, but I didnt sing last year for any of the playoff games and I have never seen a game as exciting as Saturdays game. I still have goose bumps the crowd, the comeback, the playoffs it was all amazing.Marcase had to make a special arrangement to fly home from Nashville before Saturdays game as she had no idea she was signing "O Canada" until her mother received an e-mail from the Royals Wednesday.My mom was so excited when she called, Marcase said Saturday. She told me I had to catch a flight back home to sing before Saturdays game. I got a flight Friday and have to catch a flight back to Nashville on Sunday but its so amazing to have this opportunity. I caught an early flight to make sure I got here in plenty of time.She arrived at Kauffman Stadium around 1 p.m. Saturday and sang "O Canada" before the start of the 3:10 p.m. game.This was even more exciting than the first time I sang the national anthem when I was 9, she admitted. When I was 9, I was too young to be nervous. And I have been asked back so many times that I feel very comfortable singing here. But today was extra special because the team is in the playoffs for the second year in a row.Marcase, who is studying commercial voice and music management at Belmont University, dreams of a recording career.I dont have to be Madonna, she said, grinning, but I would like the opportunity to perform. Im writing my own songs and learning about all sides of the music business in college. I love music and it would be a dream to have a music career.Page 2 of 2 - She also dreams of performing at Kauffman before the start of a World Series game.But we found out that the Royals dont select the singers for the World Series games, Major League Baseball makes those decisions. So, well see what happens. If they want me to sing, Ill be there. If not, it was the thrill of a lifetime to sing (Saturday) and watch the Royals win the game.

Source: http://www.examiner.net/article/20151020/NEWS/151029978

Continue Reading ..

We want more "Gilmore Girls" and "Twin Peaks." Should we get them?

The news that Netflix is reviving Gilmore Girls has spread with the speed of Lorelai and Rorys caffeinated banter. The streaming service is reportedly going to deliver four 90-minute episodes, which will begin production early next year.

Loyal fans and Gilmore Girls fans are nothing if not fiercely loyal have been overwhelming social media with big cheers. Indefatigably, since the seven-season show ended in 2007, theyve been calling for a series revival.

Continue reading below

Most of the shows original cast will be back, including Lauren Graham, Alexis Bledel, Kelly Bishop, and Scott Patterson. Actor Edward Hermann died last year the new episodes will surely deal with his absence poignantly and there is no word yet on whether now-box-office-star Melissa McCarthy, Matt Czuchry, or Liza Weil, will be on board.

Most important of all, show creator Amy Sherman-Palladino whose sensibility and voice made the series work will be back, after having left the production before its final season due to contract disputes. Her return is a triumph of sorts for fans, many of whom felt the final season was a disappointment, and for Sherman-Palladino herself, who has said she never got to end the series in the way shed always planned.

Could this BE any more fantastic? [Vocal tone: ironic.]

Continue reading it below

Let the end be the end, when it comes to TV shows

Matthew Gilbert sounds off on this growing trend of TV series finding life after death in the movies.

I know I should be excited, and not dooming this venture before seeing it, and just being a positive person in general. I was an admirer of the series, even if the pop-filled high-speed exchanges could be wearying and precious. Why not revisit good old Stars Hollow and check in with the gang?

But, ever since the announcement of the return of Arrested Development a few years ago, I have written frequently of my problem with reviving series that died a natural death years earlier. By the end of the next year or two, we will have seen new episodes of 24, The X-Files, Twin Peaks, Full House, Heroes, and The Comeback. These arent reboots, which are reinventions of old shows and movies with new casts; these are resurrections zombies, in a way, since they are revivifications of dead bodies.

Im not skeptical about them solely because they run the risk of harming a shows legacy, although I do think that the recent season 4 of Arrested Development diminished the historical take on the series from a three-season wonder of TV perfection into just a once-great sitcom. It went from a classic to a classic with qualifications, so that when you recommend it to someone you have to note, Watch the first three seasons, but dont bother with the fourth.

Im more skeptical about these nostalgia-tinged series revivals because they arent usually creatively driven. They are often the result of a numerical sense of audience desire, a corporate understanding that the show is presold and as streamers such as Netflix compile statistics about what their subscribers watch, that understanding is more specific than ever.

Really, just because audiences may want more Gilmore Girls or Twin Peaks isnt necessarily a reason to give it to them, is it? We always long for more candy, but sometimes its more powerful yes, here is where I drag out one of entertainments most relevant quotes to leave us wanting more.

If a series ended from natural causes, like The X-Files, Heroes, and Twin Peaks, it was tapped-out. Lets let all of them rest in peace. Zombies are popular right now, but zombie series? Please, no.

What do you think of the revivals of Gilmore Girls and other shows?

Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?sa=t&fd=R&ct2=us&usg=AFQjCNGmbGb0dSI-fla8vcHNdGS0TjMZhg&clid=c3a7d30bb8a4878e06b80cf16b898331&cid=52778973670038&ei=0zkoVvi5M8yEhQHVmKb4DA&url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/arts/television/2015/10/21/want-more-gilmore-girls-and-twin-peaks-should-get-them/9zDeL22DJ1wfErH1TJLsPL/story.html

Continue Reading ..

Deflategate Game Shows Colts Can"t Cover Both Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman

The Indianapolis Colts accomplished one goal in last seasons AFC Championship Game: They limited Rob Gronkowski. Thats it.

Gronkowski hasnt been held under 30 receiving yards very frequently in his six-year NFL career. In fact, its only happened 15 times in the New England Patriots tight ends career, and nine occasions came duringhisrookie season.Gronkowski also was held under 30 yards when he broke his arm against the Houston Texans in the 2012 playoffs and when he was nursing a high-ankle sprain in Super Bowl XLVI.

The Colts kept Gronkowski under 30 yards in last years AFC title game, as well, but they learned the hard way that limiting the tight end doesnt lead to certain victory (the Patriots are 12-3 when Gronkowski is held under 30 yards), after they lost 45-7.

The Colts perhaps paid too much attention to Gronkowski, who had three catches on eight targets for 27 yards and a touchdown, leavingwide receiver Julian Edelmanto gooff for nine catches on 11 targets for 98 yards.

Gronkowski was bracketed, bumped at the line and double-covered. There were times the big tight end was left one-on-one, but the Colts made it apparent early he was their main focus.

Lets check out a few examples:

Gronkowski begins the formation lined up in the backfield, then he goes in motion and splits outwide. Colts No. 1 cornerback Vontae Davis swaps from Edelman to Gronkowski, leaving linebacker Jerrell Freeman on the shifty receiver, which is a massive mismatch for quarterback Tom Brady. Edelman easily grabs a 7-yard reception.Gronkowski is bumped by outside linebacker Jonathan Newsome off the line of scrimmage then picked up by safety LaRon Landry and linebacker DQwell Jackson. That left running back Shane Vereen open against Freeman for a 30-yard catch down the sideline.Gronkowski again is bumped at the line of scrimmage then tracked by two safeties, leaving the middle of the field open for Edelman, who dropped Bradys pass.Four(!) defenders track Gronkowski into his route, leaving Edelman wide open for a 12-yard reception.Brady has yet to complete a pass to Gronkowski midway through the second quarter and forces a pass to the big tight end down the middle of the field despite double coverage. Brady is picked off by DQwell Jackson, leading to the Colts testing the footballs PSI on the sideline, kicking off Deflategate and driving everyPatriots reporter mad.Brady, throwing a fully-inflated football, fires a pass to Gronkowski despite tight coverage from cornerback Greg Toler. Edelman, lined up in the slot opposite Gronkowski, is double-covered, showing how its impossiblefor a team to properly cover both talented receivers.On fourth-and-4 in the fourth quarter, Gronkowski is lined up across from Davis, and cornerback Darius Butler follows him into his route, leaving Edelman on Jackson for 6 yards and a first down.

The Colts can try to take away Gronkowski on Sunday night in their Week 6 matchup with the Patriots, but that will only leave Edelman and running back Dion Lewis open to feast on single- or non-existent coverage. Theres really no solution to this issue, so, uh, good luck, Colts.

Thumbnail photo via Stew Milne/USA TODAY Sports Images

Source: http://nesn.com/2015/10/deflategate-game-shows-colts-cant-cover-rob-gronkowski-and-julian-edelman/

Continue Reading ..

Olivia Newton-John"s daughter Chloe Lattanzi apologises for dropping the F ...

ByBianca La Cioppa For Daily Mail Australia

Published: 17:00 EST, 13 October 2015 | Updated: 17:48 EST, 13 October 2015

She stepped back into the spotlight last month when she released a single with her famous mother Olivia Newton-John.

And on Tuesday Chloe Lattanzi sent out a public apology to her fans after she dropped the F-bomb in a video posted to social media, which thanked them for their support.

"I"m not a bad girl. I have a good heart with a dirty mouth," she posted alongside a selfie of herself showing off her crystal blue eyes and dyed blonde locks.

Scroll down for video

Sincerely sorry:Chloe Lattanzi sent her fans a public apology on Tuesday after she dropped the "f" word in a video posted to social media thanking them for their support

"I wanted to make a public apology for using the f word in the thank you video to everyone. I hear I offended some people," she continued.

"I"m human just like you, and make mistakes! I have a habit of swearing when I"m nervous. You may not know it but I"m very shy and self-conscious on camera and sometimes forget how normal people talk.

"This whole fame thing is hard. I say one word then I can"t sleep cuz I worry I will lose all the wonderful people who have supported me. From the bottom of my heart I am sorry," she finished her touching post.

Flawless: Alongside a self taken image which showed off the 29-year-old"s green eyes, she posted,"I"m not a bad girl. I have a good heart with a dirty mouth"

Two timer: She thanked her 11,000 followers again just hours later for "making me feel okay" about swearing in her short video

Just hours following her apology the 29-year-old again took to Instagram to thank her 11,000 followers for "making me feel okay" about swearing in her short video - which has since been removed.

"I feel all mushy and lovey dovey: just wanna hug you all!," she gushed.

In a 30-second replacement video, which has since been posted to the blonde beauty"s accounts, the singer wrapped her arm around mum Olivia as they both praised their fans for helping move their You Have To Believe single into the top 10 on the music charts.

"We want to thank all of you who have helped our wonderful record get to number six," the Grease actress said, with help from Chloe who reminded her of the records chart placement.

Second time lucky:In a 30-second replacement video Chloe wrapped her arm around her famous mother Olivia Newton-John as they both praised their fans for helping move their single into the top 10

Joint effort: Olivia thanked those "who have helped our wonderful record get to number six"

The mother and daughter duo released the revamped song in August, which is a dance remix of 1980 hit Magic produced by DJ Dave Aude.

Earlier this year, Olivia confirmed to news.com.au that she and Chloe had been in the studio.

"It"s now called You Have To Believe and it"s a dance remake of Magic with [house producer] Dave Aude," the 65 year-old said.

"She"s starting again, rewriting songs, talking to producers. Its very exciting."

Bonding: Chloe and Olivia released "You Have To Believe" in August, a dance remix of 1980 hit Magic produced by DJ Dave Aude

Share or comment on this article

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-3271346/Olivia-Newton-John-s-daughter-Chloe-Lattanzi-apologises-dropping-F-bomb-thank-video-fans.html

Continue Reading ..

Patriots Report Card: Smart win for Brady, Pats

It was closer than it was supposed to be, but in the end, the Colts couldnt help themselves. They had to do something stupid. As Julian Edelman put it when asked about Indianapolis ill-advised fake punt: Shame on them for trying that again. You know youre not surprised with anything how they play. You know, Colts.

In other words, You know, desperate housewives.

Trailing by only six points late in the third quarter, the Colts did what they so often do against the Patriots. They panicked and made beating them easier. Do that against Tom Brady, and youre going down, which Indy did for the fifth straight time in this rivalry since Andrew Luck arrived.

QUARTERBACK

A-minus

Statistically, this wasnt Tom Bradys finest hour, but he deserves high marks for the way he moved in the pocket, often buying time for his depleted offensive line. The Colts put a lot of pressure on him, but he delivered accurate throws despite being chased off his spot. Bradys shoulder fake froze the Colts secondary just long enough to loft a 39-yard completion to Keshawn Martin early. Late in the second quarter, he was flushed from the pocket but stepped up, his movement allowing Danny Amendola to create space on a 35-yard reception. He did have several passes tipped at the line and was the victim of a batted one by Julian Edelman for his first interception of the year, a pick-six that originally was on target. But his legs created an opening for LeGarrette Blounts 11-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter, buying time in the pocket and then rolling right as the running back followed him on a parallel line, Brady putting the ball on the money for an easy score. He even made a good play while being sacked by safety Dwight Lowery on a blitz. Brady knew there was no one to block Lowery and wanted to go to Rob Gronkowski on a shallow cross, but at the last moment, the tight end was jammed by linebacker DQwell Jackson. Brady wisely took the sack rather than risk a hurried throw. This was a night he won more with his head and feet than his arm.

RUNNING BACK

B-plus

Dion Lewis had become a staple in the backfield but was all but invisible as LeGarrette Blount did the heavy lifting with 93 rushing yards, including a 38-yard touchdown burst on which he showed great acceleration through a massive hole on the right side. Blount also bounced off a pile of humanity at the line and stepped inside for an 11-yard gain that was all about vision. Credit him with a sound blitz pick-up on DQwell Jackson at the Patriots 10-yard line as well. Blounts TD catch was easy money partly because he gave Tom Brady an easy target by drifting with him once linebacker Jerrell Freeman bolted off in pursuit of the quarterback. Lewis time was limited, but he made it count, taking a screen for 12 yards that was doubled when he was hauled down by his face mask. Later, with the Pats facing third-and-6, Lewis made a nifty run for 7 by bouncing left then cutting back through a small crease. Good days work all around.

WIDE RECEIVER

B-minus

This was Danny Amendolas night. He hauled in seven of the nine b***s aimed at him for 105 yards and two long gains. His 35-yard out-and-up route on a slow developing play read the zone perfectly as Tom Brady bought him time to get free. Julian Edelman was playing with an injured finger that might have explained three dropped passes and another he batted into a Mike Adams pick-six. The finger must have been an issue because the passes were on point. He ran a fine route between linebackers, avoiding an attempted jam by Robert Mathis coming out of the slot and finding open space on his 11-yard touchdown. We could have done without his spike into the Colts logo, but thats Edelman. One day, somebody is going to spike him. Edelman also made an agile spin that shook off Mathis on a fourth-and-1 sweep and gained 2 yards. Keshawn Martins 39-yard catch wasnt his only contribution. He also drew an interference call on a fade route that had Greg Toler holding on, putting the ball on the Colts 7.

TIGHT END

C-minus

It was a below-average night for Rob Gronkowski, who often was jammed by a defensive end or linebacker and seldom left one-on-one. Because the method held him to just three second-half catches, Gronk can expect to see more of that. His blocking wasnt super effective, either. He was unable to maintain his leverage several times. The Colts had safety Dwight Lowery on him much of the game, but someone else usually had a hand or a body on him first. The few times he was out wide and one-on-one, he won the battles, including his touchdown. Scott Chandler averaged 19.5 yards on two catches because the emphasis was on Gronk. Chandler made a tough catch of a high throw from Tom Brady for 25 yards. He also got away with a nice hold on LeGarrette Blounts 38-yard TD run. Mike Williams blocking was spottier than usual. He couldnt hold his block on nose tackle David Parry, resulting in LeGarrette Blount being stuffed for 1 yard.

OFFENSIVE LINE

B-minus

Considering the line lost two left tackles Nate Solder (torn biceps) and Marcus Cannon (toe) this was a fairly solid performance. One of the two sacks allowed was of the coverage variety. While the six hits on Tom Brady and the consistent pressure are concerning (especially with the Jets coming to town), the Pats ran the ball effectively and did a better job in the second half once the linemen became accustomed to their spots. The upside is the kids in the middle kept a solid enough pocket that Brady usually was able to step up to avoid outside rushers, the two glaring exceptions being when T.Y. McGill beat guard Shaq Mason clean inside and forced an incompletion, and when center David Andrews missed Billy Winn and got the quarterback leveled. Sebastian Vollmer is one of the leagues best right tackles but had to move to the left side with Solder done for the season and Cannon limping. Ex-practice squad denizen Cameron Fleming stepped in for Cannon and held his own without holding the Colts. The line continued to pull effectively and get out in front of screens. The Pats averaged 4.6 yards per carry, which is effective.

DEFENSIVE LINE

B-plus

Good or bad, it starts up front, and Sunday night was pretty good. Three sacks and 10 hits on Andrew Luck forced the quarterback into too many off-target throws. End Chandler Jones finished with 21

Source: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/patriots_nfl/new_england_patriots/2015/10/patriots_report_card_smart_win_for_brady_pats

Continue Reading ..

Observations from Week 6 loss to the Houston Texans

Observations and musings from Week 6 of the Jaguars regular season.

1) When is enough, enough?

The Jaguars find a new way to lose every week. It is honestly incredible at this point. One week the D gives up 35+ points, one week the offense scores 13 points and this week? The entire team was bad. Each week you think the team has hit rock bottom, they do their best to show you that there is a point where it truly can get worse.

2) Why didn"t the coaches adjust to Hopkins?

I am not gonna kill Davon House for Hopkins" performance. House won his share of battles vs Hopkins, but in the 2nd half he just exploded. He is easily a top 5 WR in the NFL this season and Sunday was the biggest reminder yet. You knew every 3rd down pass was going to him. He still caught it. You knew every red zone pass was going to go to him. He still caught 2 TDs. He made 2-3 catches that I am not sure any other WR in the whole league makes. With that said, why did the Jaguars not change their scheme even once? Why did House never get any safety help? Why was Hopkins never doubled on 3rd down?

3) Happy for Marks.

I didn"t expect Marks to make an impact Sunday. Frankly, I didn"t expect him to make an impact all season. But it was clear after just a few snaps that, while he is clearly not his old self, he is still an effective player. He drew a big holding penalty while being doubled and was frequently int he backfield. There aren"t many players on the team that are worth rooting for more than Marks.

4) Blake and Julius have to get on the same page.

Julius had an OK game. He scored his first TD and got a lot of targets, showing that they want to feed him the ball on 3rd down and red zone situations. But he also had 2 drops and was the target on 2 of Bortles 3 INTs, both looking like they had miscommunication. The Jaguars need Julius to be a dominant player for better or worse, and for that to happen they need him and Bortles to get on the same page quickly.

5) I don"t know what the bench clearing was all about.

But I am happy some players are showing some fire and not just rolling over. Not sure if we"ll ever know why Marks, Odrick, etc. flipped out, but I don"t really care either.

Weekly superlatives

Offensive Player of the Week: Allen Robinson

Was having one of his best games until getting hurt when the game was already over

Defensive Player of the Week: Sen"Derrick Marks

Impressive outing in his first game since week 17 last year.

Best Play: No.

Rookie of the Week: A.J. Cann

Cann and Michael Bennett were the only rookies to play, but Cann looked solid this week. He has gotten better with each start.

Hanxed It Award: Jaguars defensive staff for not adjusting to Hopkins.

I will never understand continuing to cover an elite WR one-on-one when you know he is getting the ball.

Stat of the week:

This is bad and we should feel bad.

Source: http://www.bigcatcountry.com/2015/10/19/9566993/observations-from-week-6-loss-to-the-houston-texans

Continue Reading ..

Justin Forsett injury update: Fantasy owners might want have a backup plan

Justin Forsett could miss Week 6. We break down the fantasy implications.

Baltimore Ravens running back Justin Forsett (ankle) is questionable to play against the San Francisco 49ers. He was limited in practice this week and is hopeful he"ll be able to play.

He is a game-time decision for this game, which is bad news for fantasy because it has a 4:25 PM EDT start time. That means his fantasy owners could be in a tight spot with only three other games starting at that time or later this week.

If he can"t go, it"ll be Buck Allen getting a ton of carries against a weaker defense. The Ravens are running out of options at back, so Allen could get at least 15 touches.

Fantasy impact: Ideally, you have a backup plan of Allen for this game. If Forsett can play, he will be a must-start player. He finally busted loose in Week 5 and his fantasy owners can expect many more big lines after a rocky start.

Source: http://www.sbnation.com/fantasy/2015/10/18/9561547/justin-forsett-injury-update-fantasy-football-ravens-running-back

Continue Reading ..

Fantasy updates on Eddie Lacy, Keenan Allen, Odell Beckham Jr., other Week 6 ...

Published on Oct. 18, 2015

It has been a painful week for some fantasy wide receivers, from Keenan Allen and Emmanuel Sanders (among others) leaving with injuries Sunday to Odell Beckham Jr. hoping to play through a hamstring injury on Monday night. And there are sure to be questions about Eddie Lacy"s ankle after he got just four carries against the Chargers.

Let"s take a look at the latest injury updates on the key fantasy football players who went down in Week 6and the fantasy football sleepers who might replace them if they miss time.

MORE FANTASY FOOTBALL: Best waiver-wire pickups for Week 7

Is Eddie Lacy hurt?

The Packers" Eddie Lacy wasn"t listed on the injury report this week, but he had just four carries Sunday against the Chargers, while James Starks had 10totes (for 112 yards). It will be interesting to see if Lacy suffered a setback with his troublesome ankle during the game, or if the Packers simply just rode the hot hand Sunday. We"re sure to hearmore about the Packers" backfield leading up to Week 8 after the Packers" bye, but Starks is obviously a must-own right now.

Will Odell Beckham Jr. play Monday night?

The Giants"Odell Beckham (hamstring) is questionable for Week 6against the Eagles. OBJ didn"t practice at all last week, but all indications are that the Giants expect him to play against the Eagles. Fantasy owners should have a backup plan, though. Rueben Randle (hamstring) is probable and would be an easy sub-in, or you could opt for the Eagles" Josh Huff.

Emmanuel Sandersinjury update

The Broncos"Emmanuel Sanders suffered a shoulder injury late in Sunday"s game against the Browns and couldn"t finish the overtime contest. Sanderslanded hard on the shoulder while attempting to make a diving catch. Though he tried to return in overtime, Sanders lasted just one play before exiting for good. The only good news here is that the Broncos are heading into a bye week, givingSanders two full weeks to heal.

Keenan Allen injury update

The Chargers"Keenan Allen left Sunday"s game against the Packers in the third quarter with a hip injury while making his 14th catch of the day. He also tried to returnbut, like Sanders, wasn"t able to finish the contest either.Dontrelle Inman picked up the slack in Allen"s absence, and could see more targets if Keenan misses more time. Of course,Malcom Floyd and tight ends Antonio Gates and Ladarius Green would also be fighting for Philip Rivers" attention.

Jeremy Maclin suffers concussion

The Chiefs"Jeremy Maclin left Sunday"s game against theVikings with a concussion. Maclin, who had to be guided to the locker room, will have to pass through the league"s concussion protocol before getting back on the field. Albert Wilson could be the Chiefs" No. 1 receiver if Maclin misses time.

Sammy Watkins injured (again)

The Bills"Sammy Watkins, who was returning from a calf injury, suffered anankle injury on a touchdown playagainst the Bengals near the endof the first half. Watkins needed help getting to the locker room and was seen oncrutches after halftime. With Percy Harvinexpected to miss significant time with a hip injury, the Bills receiving corps is dangerously thin. Robert Woods looks like the best, healthiest bet right now.

Allen Robinson injury update

The Jaguars"Allen Robinson leftWeek 6 against the Texans with an apparent injury after he banged legs withTexans S Lonnie Ballentinein thefourthquarter. Robinson went to the locker room and was spotted using a crutch after the game, butinitial reports are that it"s just a leg contusion.

Source: http://www.sportingnews.com/fantasy/nfl/story/2015-10-18/eddie-lacy-keenan-allen-odell-beckham-jr-injury-updates-fantasy-football-week-6-start-sit-lineup

Continue Reading ..

National recognition for Temple football

Mike Kern, Daily News Sports Writer Posted: Monday, October 19, 2015, 3:01 AM

IN 1979, a 10-2 Temple team that defeated California in the Garden State Bowl finished the season ranked 17th.

Now the Owls are back in the poll for the first time since then. Back then, it was still only a Top 20, not 25.

They beat winless Central Florida on Saturday night at Lincoln Financial Field, 30-16. That made them 6-0 (3-0 American Athletic) for the fourth time in program history, and first in 41 years. So they will be at East Carolina (4-3, 2-1) on Thursday night trying to become the first team from North Broad to ever get to 7-0. And they will go there as the country"s No. 22 team in the Associated Press poll (24th in the coaches" vote).

The other years they were ranked were 1974 (one week), 1941 (two) and 1936 (also two). The "79 team, the only one to be in a final poll, was ranked a total of three weeks. Not even the 1934 team (7-1-2) that went to the inaugural Sugar Bowl made it.

"It"s nice that there"s some national recognition, and people are respecting how we"ve played," said coach Matt Rhule, who was 4 in 1979. "We have to make it mean something by being in the Top 25 at the end of the year.

"If you have success, the pressure does build. It"s easy to play when you have nothing to lose. If people think we"re good, there"ll be pressure. If you play because you love . . . finding a way to win, then it"ll be a positive thing for us."

The Owls are one of three unbeaten AAC teams in the Top 25. Memphis (6-0, 2-0), which just beat Mississippi at home, is 18th. And Houston (6-0, 2-0) is 21st. Both play in the West Division.

Only two other conferences - the Big 12 (Baylor, TCU, Oklahoma State) and Big Ten (Ohio State, Michigan State and Iowa) - also have three of the remaining 14 unbeatens.

Yo, the fact that they"re already bowl-eligible is an afterthought. Think about that.

"I think our guys know the target"s there," Rhule said. "If we just get out of our own way, we"ll be fine. We don"t talk much about goals. We want to be recognized as a good team. I want them to have high expectations. I think we can play a lot better.

"We"ve played half the year. As I told them, "Hey, great job." (But) in my mind I"m kind of like wiping the slate clean. We have another half a season. It"s how you finish.

"Hopefully we"ll continue to have more great memories this year. Probably after the year, we can look back and (put our accomplishments) into perspective."

Historical and otherwise.

Against UCF (0-7, 0-3), the Owls trailed by two after 45 minutes. But Jahad Thomas scored on a 22-yard run early in the fourth quarter, and again on a 21-yarder with 4:54 to go. They converted a two-pointer after each touchdown. The first was set up by a 65-yard punt return by Sean Chandler.

Thomas finished with 199 yards rushing on 31 carries. Senior linebacker Tyler Matakevich got his 400th career tackle.

The Owls had four turnovers, including an interception that came back 82 yards for a TD.

The defense has allowed one TD in the last three games, a total of 40 drives. Opponents have converted just once this season on 40 third downs of 10-plus yards.

In the last three games, the Owls have converted 50 percent (22-for-44) of their third downs.

And, of course, Notre Dame in South Philly on Halloween is finally nearing the horizon.

Ohio State 38, PSU 10

The Nittany Lions (5-2, 2-1 Big Ten) had won five straight, all at home, since their opening loss at Temple. But beating the top-ranked Buckeyes (7-0, 3-0), in Columbus at night wearing all black, was asking too much. Even though freshman Saquon Barkley, after missing two games with an ankle injury, rushed for a career-high 194 yards on 26 carries.

They led 3-0 after a quarter. And trailed by 18 at the half. OSU won the fourth period, 17-0. Christian Hackenberg (7-for-13, 120 yards) threw an 8-yard scoring pass to DaeSean Hamilton early in the third.

Barkley had a 44-yard touchdown run in the opening quarter nullified by a holding penalty. The Nits were stopped twice on fourth down, both on sacks.

For the Buckeyes, Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 153 yards on 27 attempts, and backup quarterback J.T. Barrett had 102 on 11, with two TDs. Must be nice.

This week at Baltimore, the Lions get Maryland (2-4, 0-2), coming off a bye. In their last game, the Terps lost at OSU, 49-28.

Penn 42, Columbia 7

The Quakers (2-3, 1-1 Ivy) got coach Ray Priore his first league win by beating Columbia for the 19th straight time. This was in New York, against Al Bagnoli, who had coached them the last 23 seasons.

The week before, the Lions (1-4, 0-2) had ended a 24-game losing streak by beating Wagner, 26-3.

Columbia scored first. Penn was up by 21 after 30 minutes.

Alek Torgersen, who didn"t play in last week"s near-upset of nationally ranked Fordham because of a concussion, went 19-for-29 for 270 yards and three TDs. Ryan Kelly had two of those scores, on his only two catches. Half of Penn"s six scores came off turnovers.

On Friday night, the Quakers host Yale (4-1, 1-1). Both their wins have come on the road, the other at then-Top 25 Villanova.

Villanova 37, Albany 0

The Wildcats (3-3, 2-1 Colonial Athletic) ended a two-game losing streak. They forced five turnovers and didn"t allow the host Great Danes (2-5, 1-3) to get into the red zone. It was 10-0 at the half, 24-0 after three quarters.

It was their first win without QB John Robertson (season-ending knee injury on Sept. 19) as the starter.

Redshirt freshman Zach Bednarczyk was 12-for-12 for 152 yards and two TDs. Javon White ran for 124 yards and a score on 16 tries. Cameron McCurry had half of Villanova"s four interceptions.

This Saturday, the Wildcats visit Towson (3-3, 1-2).

Michael Jack"s Top 10

1. Ohio State (7-0). Beat Penn State, 38-10. Saturday: at Rutgers. Beat Rutgers, 56-17, at home last year.

2. Utah (6-0). Beat Arizona State, 34-18. Saturday: at Southern Cal. Beat USC, 24-21, at home last year. Lost in LA in 2013, 19-3.

3. Baylor (6-0). Beat West Virginia, 62-38. Saturday: vs. Iowa State. Won by 21 at Iowa State a year ago. Two years ago in Waco, it was 71-7.

4. Texas Christian (7-0). Beat Iowa State, 45-21. Next: Oct. 29 vs. West Virginia. Last three against WVU have been 31-30, 27-30 at home and 39-38, the last two in overtime.

5. Michigan State (7-0). Somehow beat Michigan, 27-23. Saturday: vs. Indiana. Hasn"t lost to Indy at home since 2001. Won 56-17 last year in Bloomington.

6. Louisiana State (6-0). Beat Florida, 35-28. Saturday: vs. Western Kentucky. After this there"s another week off before trip to Alabama.

7. Clemson (6-0). Beat Boston College, 34-17. Saturday: at Miami. First meeting since 2010. Visitor has won the four ACC meetings.

8. Alabama (6-1). Beat Texas A&M, 41-23. Saturday: vs. Tennessee. Has won eight straight over Vols, by average of 23 ppg. Last two at Bama were 45-10 (in 2013) and 37-6.

9. Florida State (6-0). Beat Louisville, 41-21. Saturday: at Georgia Tech. Beat Tech in last year"s ACC title game, 37-35. Also beat GT in 2012 final. GT won only two regular-season meetings since 2003, in "08 and "09.

10. Florida (6-1). Lost at LSU, 35-28. Next: Oct. 31 vs. Georgia (Jacksonville). Game effort at Baton Rouge with backup QB.

10a. Notre Dame (6-1). Beat Southern Cal, 41-31. Next: Oct. 31 at Temple. Could be biggest college matchup in Philly in forever. Who figured?

Next five: Stanford (5-1), Michigan (5-2), Texas A&M (5-1), Iowa (7-0) and Memphis (6-0).

Fraud five

Michigan: If you need an explanation, then you spent Saturday watching the Food Network. Just in case, when was the last time a game was lost on the last play on a return of a fumble by the punter?

Mississippi: It"s OK to lose at Memphis, which is legit, even as double-digit favorite. But maybe not by 37-24, especially after you score the first 14.

Northwestern: It"s OK to lose to a nationally ranked Iowa, even at home and also ranked. But not by 40-10. Especially not the week after you lost at Michigan, 38-0.

Boise State: It"s OK for the Broncs to lose once in a while in Mountain West, but 55-26 at Utah State seems a bit much. Hadn"t lost to Aggies since 1997. But they had seven first-half turnovers, at which point it was 45-10. USU hadn"t beaten a ranked opponent at home in 24 years. Last year"s final was 50-19.

Kansas State: Shouldn"t be losing to Oklahoma at home, 55-0. Especially not the week after you almost beat TCU and Sooners lost to Texas.

Dishonorable Mention: Indiana was leading Rutgers by 25 at home in third quarter before losing on last-play field goal. Knights, who missed tying PAT with 6 1/2 minutes left (figures), won closing 20 minutes, 28-0.

Source: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/colleges/temple/20151019_National_recognition_for_Temple_football.html

Continue Reading ..

Sheldon Richardson says Jets are "licking our chops" to play New England ...

EAST RUTHERFORD Jets defensive end Sheldon Richardson knew exactly what he was going to do upon returning home after Sunday afternoon"s 34-20 winover Washington.

He would settle in, flip on his television, and watch the Patriots" Sunday night game at the Colts. Richardson can"t wait to get a look at New England, which will either be 5-0 or 4-1 when it hosts the 4-1 Jetsnext Sunday.

PLUS: Jets 34, Washington Redskins 20: The good, the bad, the ugly, as struggles turn into dominance

"We"re licking our chops," Richardson said of anticipating Jets-Patriots. "He"s run this division for a while now, so I"m kind of happy we"re getting after it."

Richardson could"ve been referring to either Patriots quarterback Tom Bradyor coach Bill Belichick. Either one works in that context.

The Patriots have won the AFC East in 12 of the past 14 seasons, including six straight years. The Jets last won the division in 2002.

This will be the first majortest of how good these Jets can be. The Patriotsaren"t just the defending Super Bowl champions (and an impressive-looking squad so far in 2015), but they have also defeated the Jets in seven of their past eight meetings since the Jets won in New England in the 2010 divisional playoff round.

The Jets" past three losses to the Patriots were by one, two, and three points. There"s also another three-point loss and a three-point Jets win among thosepast eight Jets-Patriots showdowns.

"Our confidence is really high," Richardson said of the Jets" mindset entering this game. "We"re not on no high horse, but you"re supposed to have confidence in yourself."

This Jets team might be the best-equipped bunch, in recent years, to finally get over the hump against New England on a consistent basis.

"We were equipped every other year, too, but guys just didn"t make plays when they were supposed to," said Richardson, a third-year pro who had half a sack Sunday in his return from a four-game marijuana suspension. "We have playmakersnow, so that"s pretty much the only difference."

Or, as defensive end Muhammad Wilkerson put it: "It"s a new season."

Richardson has no love lost for Brady. Richardsonmade that clearafter the Jets lost 17-16 to the Patriots at home in December the teams" most recent meeting.

"It"s extra disappointing losing to Tom Brady," Richardson said, bitterly, that day.

This year"s Jets have long since moved past last season"s 4-12 misery. So Richardson is clearlyfired up for this upcomingJets-Patriots game.

"Yeah, why wouldn"t I be?" he said. "It"s just big for us."

Darryl Slater may be reached at dslater@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DarrylSlater. Find NJ.com Jets on Facebook.

Source: http://www.nj.com/jets/index.ssf/2015/10/sheldon_richardson_says_jets_are_licking_our_chops.html

Continue Reading ..

Maitland Ward on "Girl Meets World" guest spot: "I"ve had a lot of talks about it"

LOS ANGELES Maitland Ward is known for playing Rachel on the later seasons of the 90s hit Boy Meets World and for her role in the comedy White Chicks, but now she is shifting her career focus in another direction.

In the past few years I have been very involved with doing cosplay and stuff like that so its kind of gotten me into a new world, she told FOX411. Im actually working on my own superhero character right now. A few years ago I went back to school for screenwriting; so I have three working scripts that Im working on getting produced.

Boy Meets World had a steady fan base during its seven-year run, and it has only grown in popularity since the show went into syndication. With spinoff Girl Meets World in its second season, Ward couldnt be more proud of the show she worked on.

I think its great for a new generation of kids especially because their parents watched all of us on the show, she explained. To raise your kids with the same thing, except a different version, I think its a really cool thing, and its a great moral show and good values for kids to grow up with.

Many of the shows former stars have headed to the spinoff for cameos and guest spots. Ward revealed her character may make a comeback on Girl Meets World.

Yes, its always in the possibility coming up. Ive had a lot of talks about it. Definitely a possibility.

And Ward couldnt be happier re-connecting with her old cast members.

Ever since the new show came around, everybody got in touch again even though I had talked to them over the years quite a bit but separately. The show has really brought everyone back together, and thats what"s really special about it too.

Recently Ward has shed her good girl Boy Meets World image, as shes been photographed in revealing outfits and costumes at red carpet events. She said dressing up is like playing a character.

In my personal life I am not the same as when I dress up and go out. It feels like Im playing a character and I kind of transform into what that character is.

She advised that confidence is the key.

I try to be confident. I think its important for women to be confident and secure in their bodies no matter what. Just own yourself, she said. Just go out there and be brave and confident and do what you want, no shame!

And right now Ward is focusing on her future and her upcoming professional endeavors.

Im working on getting my own stuff together. Ive been putting a lot of time and energy into that so Im also going to start another movie soon within the next month, a comedy, and I actually play a not so nice character, which is unusual for me. I usually play more of a nicer person.

Source: http://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/2015/10/16/maitland-ward-on-girl-meets-world-guest-spot-ive-had-lot-talks-about-it/

Continue Reading ..

Donald Trump, El Chapo Halloween Costume in Demand in Mexico

By Staff Reporter (media@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Oct 18, 2015 06:28 AM EDT

RICHMOND, VA - OCTOBER 14: Republican presidential candidate and front-runner Donald Trump addresses a crowd of more than seven thousand people during a campaign rally at the Richmond International Raceway October 14, 2015 in Richmond, Virginia. A New York real estate mogul and reality television star, Trump is now in a statistical tie with retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson in a Fox News survey of likely Republican voters released Tuesday. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) (Photo : Chip Somodevilla / Staff)

Halloween is fast approaching. By now people are thinking hard of what could be the most unique costume they can wear to Halloween parties. Well, Mexicans have found the best solution to that.

In Mexico, only two costumes were competing in the market -- that of the country"s most notorious drug lord who is currently at large, El Chapo; and that of the most controversial presidential hopeful, Donald Trump.

According to a report from The Star, El Chapo masks and costumes are selling like hot cakes in the country. One of the companies that capitalized on the high demand of the El Chapo masks is Caretas. The small factory had already produced more than 2,600 El Chapo and had exported a big portion to the U.S. and Canada, The Star reported.

Designer Hector Bustos shared that selling El Chapo masks was initially a private joke shared among the factory"s workers. But the joke became too interesting that they immediately jumped on it. Caretas CEO Diego Esponda said that the fear and hilarity with which the mask emits is that the drug kingpin remains in the outside world and had in fact successfully staged two escapes.

"It"s kind of funny, isn"t it: We captured him twice and he escapes twice, right? So, you know, we aren"t glorifying anybody. On the contrary, I think this is a wake-up call to the government, which captures him and then he escapes," Esponda told The Star.

Next on the popularity list are masks and costumes of Republican presidential hopeful Trump whom the majority of the Mexicans hate. The candidate had lambasted the Mexicans as drug dealers and rapist in a speech announcing his presidential bid.

The Trump Halloween costumes are designed with mouths opened in what could be described as Trump"s face when terrified bordering astonished. The mask is made all the scarier or funnier with his signature blond hairdo. "The Donald Trump one is also selling very well in the United States. I mean, he is the most hated person right now in Mexico," Esponda said.

On Thursday, Trump Halloween costumes is the top trending search terms on Google, The New York Daily News reported. On the list were Lam and Elvie of the "Descendants," Scarlet Witch from marvel"s Comics and characters from Nickelodeon"s "APW Patrol." The classic Chewbacca from "Star wars" was also on the list.

The New York Daily News also noted that other retailers have jumped into the whole Trump Halloween costume craze. Over at Yandy.com, a sultry costume being sold under the name "Donna T. Rumpshaker" is getting traction among buyers.

2015 Latinos Post. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Source: http://www.latinospost.com/articles/75844/20151018/donald-trump-el-chapo-halloween-costume-demand-mexico.htm

Continue Reading ..

Texas A&M throws three pick-6s in loss to Alabama

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) -- Derrick Henry ran for a career-high 236 yards and two scores and No. 10 Alabama added a school-record three touchdowns on interception returns to get a 41-23 win over No. 9 Texas A&M on Saturday.

Alabama (6-1, 3-1 SEC) built a 28-6 lead in the second quarter thanks to 55- and 6-yard touchdown runs by Henry and interception returns of 33 and 93 yards.

Christian Kirk returned a punt 68 yards for a score just before halftime and Texas A&M (5-1, 2-1) added another touchdown on a 3-yard reception by Ricky Seals-Jones after a fumble early in the third to cut it to 28-20.

But Alabama kicked two field goals before Minkah Fitzpatrick"s 55-yard interception return for a score -- his second of the day -- made it 41-23 and sealed the victory.

Kyle Allen, who entered the game having thrown 79 passes without an interception, was 20 of 40 for 263 yards with a touchdown and a career-high three interceptions. Freshman Kyler Murray took over for a few possessions and was also picked off.

The Aggies got within 34-23 with a 36-yard field goal with about eight minutes left. They were driving again after a stop on defense when Fitzpatrick became the first player in Alabama history to return two interceptions for touchdowns in a game.

Henry, who extended his school record by scoring in his 12th straight game, had already surpassed his previous career-best of 148 yards rushing with 10 minutes left in the second quarter and he had 178 at halftime.

Alabama was up by 8 when Adam Griffith made a 32-yard field goal to make it 31-20. Kyler Murray was intercepted on the last play of the third quarter and the Crimson Tide added a field goal on the ensuing drive.

Murray played the last possession of the first half and the first one of the third quarter which resulted in a punt. Cyrus Jones fumbled the return and it was recovered by Donovan Wilson.

Allen returned and connected with Seals-Jones on a 44-yard pass before finding him again for a 3-yard touchdown on the next play to cut the lead to 28-20 early in the third.

Myles Garrett blocked a punt on Alabama"s next possession and it was recovered by the Aggies. But A&M"s offense stalled and they came away empty after a missed 52-yard field goal attempt.

Kirk had his second punt return for a touchdown this season when he took it back 68 yards to cut the lead to 28-13. Kirk, who became the first A&M player to return two punts for TDs in a season since Aaron Glenn in 1993, caught the ball in the middle of the field and darted to the edge, where he evaded several defenders and then simply outran everyone else.

A crowd of 105,733 including former President George H.W. Bush and wife Barbara, Astros star rookie Carlos Correa and former A&M and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans attended the game.

Alabama linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton was ejected for targeting in the second quarter after a hit on Texas A&M"s Sam Moeller on a punt return.

Taylor Bertolet made field goals of 54 and 52 yards in the first half for A&M.

Allen"s high throw was intercepted by Eddie Jackson and he took it 93 yards for a touchdown to make it 28-6. Jackson tight-roped the sideline and zigzagged away from several would-be tacklers for the third-longest interception return in school history.

Alabama took a 7-0 lead when Fitzpatrick returned an interception 33 yards for a touchdown on A&M"s second drive.

Henry burst through the line and juked Armani Watts a few yards down the field en route to a 55-yard touchdown run that pushed Alabama"s lead to 14-0 with about 5 1/2 minutes left in the first quarter.

Source: http://www.foxsports.com/southwest/story/texas-a-m-throws-three-pick-6s-in-loss-to-alabama-101715

Continue Reading ..

Adam Levine shocks his young, heartbroken fan

Adam Levine and super-fan Mila.(Photo: EllenTube)

YouTube sensation and super-fan Mila might not be so devastated anymore after a surprise, televised meeting with the man of her dreams, Adam Levine. It was epic.

The three-year-old made news earlier this month when a video went viral as Mila appeared adorably devastated from her car seat to find out that The Voice star had married.

It all came to an amazing new twist on The Ellen DeGeneres Show Friday, when DeGeneres spoke to Mila and her mother. Then Levine himself stepped out from behind the curtain, naturally without Victoria Secrets model wife Behati Prinsloo.

Levine presented Mila with a flower and a hug.

It was an amazing ending to the story, made even better because Mila suddenly went incredibly shy in front of the man she plans to marry. Sitting on the couch next to Levine, Mila hid in her mother"s arms.

"She"s over it," Levine cracked, pointing out that "everybody in the world," including his wife, sent him the Mila heartbreak video.

Adam Levine and his shy fan Mila.(Photo: EllenTube)

"It was kind of heartbreaking but so unbelievably cute," said Levine.

Mila did make out well in the whole deal. She met her dream man and Ellen presented her with a specially-made Levine super-fan outfit, with "Mila + Adam 4 Eva" written on it, covered in pictures of the heartthrob.

Levine joked that he has an outfit just like it at home.

Read or Share this story: http://usat.ly/1LAc03V

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/story/life/entertainthis/2015/10/17/adam-levine-shocks-his-young-heartbroken-fan/74122212/

Continue Reading ..

Stanford football prepares for injury-riddled Arizona

Photo: Rick Scuteri, Associated Press

Arizona linebacker Scooby Wright III will be out for an extended period because of a foot injury.

Arizona linebacker Scooby Wright III will be out for an extended period because of a foot injury.

Photo: Rick Scuteri, Associated Press

Stanford football prepares for injury-riddled Arizona

After Friday nights win at Oregon State, Stanford looked like the walking wounded. Now, its the Cardinals next opponent, Arizona, that deserves that label.

The Wildcats will be without All-America middle linebacker Scooby Wright III when they face the No. 18 Cardinal (3-1, 2-0 Pac-12) at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Stanford Stadium.

The Cardinal Newman-Santa Rosa alum will miss several weeks after spraining his foot in the Wildcats 56-30 loss to UCLA on Saturday, Arizona head coach Rich Rodriguez said. Wright had 163 tackles (29 for losses), 14 sacks and six forced fumbles last year.

Hes been the best defensive player in our conference for over a year, Stanford head coach David Shaw said.

Additionally, Arizona quarterback Anu Solomon is day-to-day after getting a concussion in Saturday nights game, Rodriguez said. Solomon is fourth best in the Pac-12 in passing efficiency just a tick behind Stanfords Kevin Hogan after throwing 11 touchdown passes without an interception.

Hogan will start again, although he probably wont practice until late in the week to give his sore left ankle a rest, Shaw said.

Meanwhile, the Cardinal are expected to have defensive linemen Brennan Scarlett and Aziz Shittu and offensive tackle Kyle Murphy available. However, outside linebacker Kevin Anderson will miss his second straight game.

Both Scarlett and Shittu were hurt in the first half at Corvallis; thin at that position, Stanford couldnt afford to lose either for any extended period. Shaw said Tuesday that X-rays showed no bone fractures or torn ligaments. Were expecting them both to play, he said.

The same goes for Murphy, who was replaced by David Bright for most of the game. As is Stanfords custom, the nature of the injuries were not disclosed.

Shaw hopes to have Anderson back for the UCLA game Thursday, Oct. 15. After the Arizona game, Stanford has a bye, which would give him a third week to recuperate.

Redshirt freshman Joey Alfieri, who again will start at outside linebacker in place of Anderson, had five tackles and a fumble recovery in his return to his home state. At Jesuit-Portland which also produced former Stanford fullback/linebacker Owen Marecic he was a prolific running back as well as a linebacker.

He rushed for 1,712 yards and 22 touchdowns as a senior, but Shaw said, We think hes got a very, very bright future as an outside linebacker.

With Wright and backup Haden Gregory (knee) out for the Wildcats (3-1, 0-1), walk-on Tre Tyler is expected to start at linebacker against the Cardinal.

If Solomon cant play, either Jerrard Randall or redshirt freshman Brandon Dawkins would start at quarterback.

No matter who the quarterback is, Shaw said, the Cardinal will have to tackle him better than they did Oregon State freshman Seth Collins.

Briefly: During the Fox Sports 1 telecast of the Stanford-Oregon State game, analyst Joel Klatt, a former Colorado QB, said if Christian McCaffrey keeps up his superb play, he should be in the Heisman conversation. McCaffrey is first in the Pac-12 in all-purpose yardage (222.2 per game), fifth in rushing (111.2) and fifth in kickoff returns (21.7). In all-purpose yardage, he trails only San Jose States Tyler Ervin and Temples Jahad Thomas nationally. Shaw said hes not a big fan of vaulting a tackler, as McCaffrey did Friday for the fourth time in his still-young college career. Its hard to train instincts, he said.

Tom FitzGerald is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. E-mail: tfitzgerald@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @tomgfitzgerald

Source: http://www.sfgate.com/collegesports/article/Stanford-football-prepares-for-injury-riddled-6538699.php

Continue Reading ..