February 10, 2012

NFL Network Heads To Canton, OH For Pro Football Hall Of Fame Weekend

July 30, 2010 By Leave a Comment

NFL NETWORK HEADS TO CANTON, OH FOR

PRO FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME WEEKEND

Unmatched Coverage Includes Debuts of Jerry Rice: Catching History Wednesday, August 4 at 8:00 PM ET & The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton at 9:00 PM ET

“Hall of Fame” Analysts Rod Woodson & Michael Irvin Anchor Broadcast Team from Canton

Seven Hours of Live Coverage on Enshrinement Saturday, August 7

NFL Network returns to Canton, OH for one of the greatest traditions in sports when Pro Football’s greatest players welcome in a new class with the 47th Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony. NFL Network delivers seven hours of live, high-definition coverage on Enshrinement Saturday, August 7 beginning at 4:00 PM ET. 2007 enshrinee Michael Irvin and 2009 enshrinee Rod Woodson highlight NFL Network’s broadcast team that also includes Rich Eisen, Steve Mariucci, Jason La Canfora and Kara Henderson.

NFL Network’s Hall of Fame-related programming also features the debut of two shows that pay tribute to 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinees Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith Wednesday, August 4. In Jerry Rice: Catching History, debuting at 8:00 PM ET, Steve Mariucci returns to Candlestick Park with the league’s all-time career leader in pass receptions to relive the illustrious career that has earned him a place in Canton. The one-hour show covers all of his heroic highlights, and uncovers the secrets that made him one of the greatest players in NFL history. Jerry Rice: Catching History also includes never before told stories about Rice’s early days, and a return to his favorite workout spot – simply known as, ‘The Hill.’

Immediately following at 9:00 PM ET, The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton reunites Cowboys Michael Irvin, Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith to reminisce on the legacy the trio built in the Dallas in the ‘90s and celebrate the next “triplets” reunion in the halls of Canton. The trio looks back on Smith’s signature game versus the Giants, where he tallied 168 rushing yards, 10 receptions for 61 yards and a touchdown despite suffering a shoulder injury, their Super Bowl championships and Irvin and Aikman offer Smith words of wisdom for Enshrinement Saturday.

Both Jerry Rice: Catching History and Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton are voiced by actor Clarke Peters, best known for his role as Detective Lester Freamon in HBO’s critically-acclaimed drama, The Wire.

To view a sneak peek of footage from both shows, please visit:

http://ftp2.nflfilmstv.com/filmsint/ftp-inet/flashplayer.html?s_video=Preview/hof_rice_smith_combo_promo_072910_600ws.flv

As members of the Hall of Fame, no one understands the emotions and sentiments being felt by the 2010 enshrinees better than Irvin and Woodson. As a member of the class of 2007, Irvin enters his third year as a member of NFL Network’s Hall of Fame broadcast team, while Woodson brings his Hall of Fame credentials one year after his enshrinement as a member of the Hall’s 2009 class.

NFL Network’s full coverage from the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Presented by EA Madden ’11, begins Friday, August 6 at 7:00 PM ET with NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame, where both Rice and Smith are scheduled to appear.

Saturday coverage begins at August 7 at 4:00 PM ET with NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame Pre-Ceremony, leading into the 2010 Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony.

Special features within the pre-ceremony include:

  • Scheduled on-set appearances by Hall of Famers John Madden and Troy Aikman
  • Rod Woodson’s Tribute to Dick LeBeau: In his induction speech last fall, Woodson made it clear that Steelers defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau’s enshrinement was long overdue. Now with LeBeau receiving the nod, Woodson pays tribute to the man who has left a lasting impression on the NFL both on the field as a player and as a coach on the sidelines.
  • The Top 10 Dallas Cowboys of All-Time, According to ‘The Playmaker’: It’s a list that you’ve heard debated and discussed in the past, but never from one of Dallas’ greatest. ‘The Playmaker’ Michael Irvin ranks the Top 10 Dallas Cowboys of all-time.
  • The Top 10 San Francisco 49ers of All-Time, According to Mariucci: As a former head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, Mariucci shares his Top 10 49ers of all-time.
  • Highlights from Jerry Rice: Catching History and The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton

The Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony will also feature new enhancements for 2010 for an even more viewer-friendly and visually stimulating experience for fans both in the crowd and those viewing at home. Improvements include a massive 32-foot-wide LED video screen as an on-stage backdrop where video clips and selected images will be projected on a wall suspended above the stage floor and for the first time, presenters’ speeches serve as the voiceover to a four-minute highlight package honoring the corresponding enshrinee.

A one-hour NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame Post-Enshrinement Show reviews highlights of the ceremony, along with scheduled live appearances by newly inducted Hall of Famers Smith and Rice, with their respective presenters Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo.

NFL Network 2010 Hall of Fame Programming Schedule:

Monday, August 2

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Opening Days

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Greatest Hands

  • From Lynn Swann and Fred Biletnikoff to Marvin Harrison and 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Jerry Rice, these receivers have made the tough catches look easy. NFL’s Top 10 counts down the Top 10 Greatest Hands.

8:00 PM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

  • The Cowboys were successful in their quest for back-to-back Super Bowl titles. 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Emmitt Smith held out for the first two games, only to return and help carry the Cowboys to victory despite suffering a separated shoulder in the last regular season game. He was later named NFL MVP, as well as Super Bowl MVP, and became the only player to win all three titles in one season.

9:00 PM – America’s Game – The Missing Rings: 1998 Minnesota Vikings (HD)

  • The Vikings became only the third team in history to win fifteen regular season games, breaking the record for most points scored in the regular season.  The Vikings defense, led by 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee John Randle, finished the season second in the league in turnover differential. This edition of America’s Game – The Missing Rings chronicles the story of the dominate 1998 Minnesota Vikings who were on the fast track to the Super Bowl before suffering a devastating overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship.

Tuesday, August 3

11:00 AM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

12 NOON – America’s Game – The Missing Rings: 1998 Minnesota Vikings (HD)

1:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1994 San Francisco 49ers

  • San Francisco became the first team in to win five Super Bowls with their victory in Super Bowl XXIX, in which 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Jerry Rice scored an impressive three touchdowns.

1:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1969 Denver Broncos

  • The Broncos final season in the American Football league is outlined. Featured in this program is 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Floyd Little.

2:00 PM – Legends of the Hall: Defenders

2:30 PM – Legends of the Hall: Quarterbacks

3:00 PM – Legends of the Hall: Teams

3:30 PM – Legends of the Hall: Coaches

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Linebacking Corps

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Super Bowl Performances

  • NFL’s Top 10 takes a look at the players who became legends on the game’s greatest stage. Jerry Rice’s MVP performance in Super Bowl XXIII and Marcus Allen’s record-setting day in Super Bowl XVIII claim their place in the Top 10 Super Bowl performances.

8:00 PM – America’s Game: 1982 Washington Redskins (HD)

  • After a shortened season following a players strike, the Redskins bounced back from their previous season to go 8-1 and beat the Miami Dolphins to win Super Bowl XVII.  2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Russ Grimm was part of an offensive line dubbed “The Hogs,” considered one of the most punishing of its time.

9:00 PM – America’s Game: 1989 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

  • After winning Super Bowl XXIV against the Denver Broncos, the 49ers became widely acknowledged as the team of the decade. Joe Montana earned the highest quarterback rating in NFL history and was named NFL MVP.  2010 Hall of Fame inductee Jerry Rice caught 82 passes for 1,483 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Wednesday, August 4

11:00 AM – America’s Game: 1982 Washington Redskins (HD)

12 NOON – America’s Game: 1989 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

1:00 PM – NFL Films Presents: Madden: My Road to Canton

  • From his years on the Raiders sidelines to a legendary career in the broadcast booth, NFL Network profiles John Madden’s long journey to the Hall of Fame.

2:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1982 Washington Redskins

2:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1992 Dallas Cowboys

  • Previously considered one of the most struggling teams in the NFL, good coaching and superior performances resulted in a Cowboys’ Super Bowl victory.  2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Emmitt Smith earned his second straight NFL rushing title. QB Troy Aikman was named Super Bowl MVP after a phenomenal post-season in which he completed 68% of his passes and threw no interceptions.

3:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1993 Dallas Cowboys

3:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1995 Dallas Cowboys

  • Despite injuries and the departure of many veterans, the Cowboys advanced to win their third Super Bowl title in four years.  Emmitt Smith earned his fourth NFL rushing title and set the then-record of 25 rushing touchdowns in a season.

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Characters

  • From the intimidating game day persona of John Randall to William “The Refrigerator” Perry and his mega-watt smile, NFL’s Top 10 highlights the game’s most charismatic personalities.

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Receiving Corps

  • “The 49ers of the late-80s,” “Air Coryell,” “The Marks Brothers” and “The Greatest Show on Turf,” are included among the NFL’s Top 10 receiving corps of all time.

8:00 PM – Jerry Rice: Catching History (HD) – DEBUT

  • The league’s all-time career leader in pass receptions sits down with Steve Mariucci to relive the illustrious career that has earned him a place in Canton.

9:00 PM – The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton (HD) – DEBUT

  • Cowboys Michael Irvin and Troy Aikman reunite with Hall of Fame enshrinee Emmitt Smith to reminisce on the legacy the trio built in the Dallas in the ‘90s and celebrate the next “triplets” reunion – in the halls of Canton.

9:30 PM – NFL Films Presents: Triplets

Thursday, August 5

11:00 AM – Jerry Rice: Catching History (HD)

12 NOON – The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton (HD)

12:30 PM – NFL Films Presents: Triplets

1:00 PM – NFL Films Presents: Irvin: My Road to Canton

  • Michael Irvin virtually created the modern day persona of the NFL receiver and left a lasting legacy on the game.  Irvin: My Road to Canton looks at the celebrated and controversial career of the man who will always be known as the “Playmaker.”

2:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1991 New Orleans Saints

  • Head coach Jim Mora led the Saints to their first ever division title, an effort largely fueled by 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Rickey Jackson’s 11.5 sacks and 59 tackles.  Led by Jackson, the team never finished below .500 in Jackson’s final seven years.

2:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1992 New Orleans Saints

  • Under head coach Jim Mora, the 1992 Saints finished the regular season 12-4. Led to the playoffs by quarterback Bobby Hebert, the Saints were defeated by the Eagles 36-20 in the NFC Wild Card game. 2010 Hall of Fame enshrinee Rickey Jackson led the team to finish with the top defense in the league.

3:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1988 San Francisco 49ers

  • As part of their domination of the 1980’s, the 49ers advanced to become Super Bowl XXIII champions. Jerry Rice caught three touchdowns in the NFC Divisional playoff, two in the NFC Championship game and the game-changing touchdown in the Super Bowl. He earned Super Bowl MVP accolades, becoming the third wide receiver ever to bestow the honor.

3:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1989 San Francisco 49ers

4:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Cornerback Tandems

  • When one shut-down corner has a backfield partner, championship-caliber defenses are built. NFL’s Top 10 takes a look at the top cornerback tandems including Dick LeBeau and Night Train Lane in Detroit and “Old Man” Willie Brown and Skip “Dr. Death” Thomas, of Raiders fame.

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Dallas Cowboys

  • The bright lights of ‘Big D’ have been home to big talents like Roger Staubach, Tony Dorsett, Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin. NFL’s Top 10 reveals the biggest stars to don the star with a countdown of the Top 10 Dallas Cowboys.

8:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Greatest Hands

9:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Gutsiest Performances

  • Whether physical or emotional, these players fought through the pain when the game was on the line. NFL’s Top 10 focuses on the gutsiest performances of all time including Emmitt Smith’s performance versus the Giants and Jack Youngblood carrying the Rams to the Super Bowl on a broken leg.

Friday, August 6

11:00 AM – NFL Film Session: 1997 Minnesota Vikings

  • The Vikings regular season was successful enough to lead them to the playoffs, where Minnesota won the NFC Wild Card game but lost in the Divisional round to San Francisco.  John Randle had career-highs in tackles, led the league in sacks and was selected to play in the Pro Bowl.

11:30 AM – NFL Film Session: 1998 Minnesota Vikings

12 NOON – NFL Film Session: 1969 Denver Broncos

12:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1970 Denver Broncos

  • In a season nearly identical to the previous one, the Broncos finished fourth in the AFC West and did not qualify for playoffs, despite starting off the season with three straight wins.  2010 Hall of Fame inductee Floyd Little was the 1970 Denver Broncos’ bright spot, leading the AFC in rushing before later becoming the Broncos’ first 1,000-yard rusher.

1:00 PM – NFL Films Presents: Class of 2006

2:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1964 Detroit Lions

  • After going 7-5 with 2 ties, the Lions finished fourth in the NFL Western conference.  Dick LeBeau was named as a Pro Bowl selection and earned All-NFL Second Team accolades—two titles which he would go on to win several times in his illustrious playing career.

3:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1994 San Francisco 49ers

3:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1997 Minnesota Vikings

4:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1998 Minnesota Vikings

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Gutsiest Performances

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Players Not in the Hall of Fame

  • Ricky Watters, Kenny “The Snake” Stabler and Cris Carter are a few of the legendary players still awaiting their day in Canton. NFL’s Top 10 takes a look at the top players who have not been voted into the Hall of Fame.

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame (HD) – LIVE from Canton, OH

Saturday, August 7

7:00 AM – America’s Game: 1988 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

8:00 AM – America’s Game: 1989 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

9:00 AM – America’s Game: 1994 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

10:00 AM – Jerry Rice: Catching History (HD)

11:00 AM – NFL Films Presents: Triplets

11:30 AM – America’s Game: 1992 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

12:30 PM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

1:30 PM – America’s Game: 1995 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

2:30 PM – The Triplets: Emmitt Smith’s Road to Canton (HD)

3:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Players Not in the Hall of Fame

4:00 PM – NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame Pre-Ceremony (HD) – LIVE from Canton, OH

7:00 PM – 2010 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (HD) – LIVE from Canton, OH

10:00 PM – NFL Total Access at the Hall of Fame Post-Induction Show (HD)

  • Rich Eisen hosts, alongside Michael Irvin, Rod Woodson, Steve Mariucci, Jason La Canfora and Kara Henderson live from Canton, OH.

Sunday, August 8

9:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Gutsiest Performances

10:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Greatest Hands

11:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Players Not in the Hall of Fame

12 NOON – 2010 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony (HD) – ENCORE

NFL Network airs seven days a week, 24 hours a day on a year-round basis and is the only television network fully dedicated to the NFL and the sport of football.  For more information, log on to www.nfl.com/nflnetwork.  NFL.com is the exclusive internet home of NFL Network.

– NFL NETWORK –

Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

Costas & Kaat Call Red Sox at Yankees on MLB Network on August 6

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

AL EAST RIVALS NEW YORK YANKEES AND BOSTON RED SOX MATCH UP ON MLB NETWORK

ON FRIDAY, AUGUST 6 WITH BOB COSTAS AND JIM KAAT CALLING THE GAME

Game Schedule Includes AL Central Showdown Between Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers on August 3

Thursday Night Baseball Features NL East First-Place Atlanta Braves Against NL Wild Card Leader San Francisco Giants on August 5

Secaucus, N.J., July 29, 2010 – The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox continue one of the longest-running rivalries in sports when they face off on Friday, August 6 at 7:00 p.m. ET, part of MLB Network’s live game schedule for August 3-7. MLB Network’s Bob Costas and Jim Kaat will call the game live from Yankee Stadium, with pregame coverage beginning on MLB Tonight at 4:00 p.m. ET. MLB Network’s Harold Reynolds and Kevin Millar, a key member of the 2004 World Champion Red Sox, will be part of the pregame coverage, including live on-field interviews.

The AL Central first-place Chicago White Sox match up against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Tuesday, August 3 at 7:00 p.m. ET. The Tigers trail the White Sox by five games in the AL Central. Select markets will see the NL East first-place Atlanta Braves host the New York Mets at 7:00 p.m. ET. The AL Central second-place Minnesota Twins visit the AL Wild Card-leading Tampa Bay Rays during MLB Matinee on Thursday, August 5, at 12:00 p.m. ET, which will be available on MLB Network in the Twins’ home television territory. Later that day, the Atlanta Braves host the NL Wild Card-leading San Francisco Giants, who have won eight of their last ten games, on Thursday Night Baseball at 7:00 p.m. ET. Rounding out the week, the New York Mets face NL East division rival Philadelphia Phillies, who are on a seven-game winning streak, at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, August 7 at 7:00 p.m. ET. Select markets will see the San Francisco Giants at Atlanta Braves.

MLB Tonight, MLB Network’s Emmy Award-winning signature nightly studio show with look-ins at live games, will air live at 5:30 p.m. ET on August 2 and 3 as well as after MLB Matinee on August 5 and the Yankees and Red Sox game on August 6. MLB Tonight will also air on Wednesday, August 4 at 2:00 p.m. ET and on Sunday, August 8 at 5:00 p.m. ET, followed by Quick Pitch at 7:00 p.m. ET.

MLB Network’s August 3 – August 7 live game schedule:

All times ET and subject to change, check MLBNetwork.com for updates

Unless otherwise announced, games will be blacked out in each club’s home television territory

Date               Time              Game

August 3        7:00 p.m.      Chicago White Sox at Detroit

7:00 p.m.      New York Mets at Atlanta [In select markets]

August 5        12:00 p.m.    Minnesota at Tampa Bay [Available in Twins market]

7:00 p.m. Thursday Night Baseball: San Francisco at Atlanta

7:00 p.m.      Cleveland at Boston [In select markets]

August 6        7:00 p.m.*    Boston at New York Yankees – Bob Costas & Jim Kaat

7:00 p.m.      Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Detroit [Only in Boston & New York markets]

August 7        7:00 p.m.      New York Mets at Philadelphia Phillies

7:00 p.m.      San Francisco at Atlanta [In select markets]

MLB Network launched on January 1, 2009 as the largest debut in cable television history and is currently available in approximately 55 million cable, telco TV and satellite homes. In its inaugural year, MLB Network was honored with four Sports Emmy Awards and 12 nominations by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. With live games, original programming, highlights, classic games, and coverage of baseball events, MLB Network is the ultimate television destination for baseball fans. For more information and to find MLB Network in your area, go to www.MLBNetwork.com. www.Facebook.com/MLBNetwork www.Twitter.com/MLBNetwork

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Filed Under: MLB, MLBN

Fox NFL Insider Jay Glazer Joins NFL Network

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

FOX NFL INSIDER JAY GLAZER JOINS NFL NETWORK

Dynamic TV Personality Will Contribute Opinions and Analysis on NFL Total Access and NFL Network Specials

Diehard and casual football fans enjoy FOX Sports Insider Jay Glazer’s weekly contribution on FOX NFL Sunday and now they will be able to see more of him as he joins NFL Network as a contributor, it was announced today.

Glazer will appear on NFL Network’s NFL Total Access and other shows and specials throughout the year.  Glazer has appeared as a guest on NFL Network’s Super Bowl and other specials previously.  He will be making his debut in August as preseason football kicks off on NFL Network.

“Jay is one of the most entertaining and informative NFL personalities on television,” said Eric Weinberger, NFL Network executive producer. “We are building our roster of analysts and contributors to deliver more for fans who can’t get enough NFL news and information seven days a week, 365 days a year. In addition to Jay, there will be even more additions to our NFL Network team of on-air personalities coming this season.”

“It will be different than what I do at FOX. I’ll be there to provide my personal insights and opinions on various NFL topics,” said Glazer.  “FOX is my main gig and I will break news there, but I’ll also now be on NFL Network during the season and more during the off season on NFL Total Access and specials around NFL events.”

Glazer will continue role as “NFL Insider” for Fox NFL Sunday. NFL Total Access is the NFL show of record, providing daily news, interviews and analysis from around the league live Monday through Saturday at 7:00 PM ET on NFL Network.

Glazer was named as Sports Illustrated’s Media Person of the Year in 2007. He is known for breaking stories, strong opinions and relationships with players, coaches, executives and others associated with the NFL.

In addition to being on FOX Sports, Glazer is the lead NFL writer and hosts a weekly show on Foxsports.com.  He currently serves as a co-host of Spike TV’s “Pros vs. Joes” series.

NFL Network airs seven days a week, 24 hours a day on a year-round basis and is the only television network fully dedicated to the NFL and the sport of football.  For more information, log on to www.nfl.com/nflnetwork.  NFL.com is the exclusive internet home of NFL Network.

-NFL NETWORK-

Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

Kenny Chesney Boys of Fall Video to Debut August 2 on SportsCenter, ESPN.com and ESPNRise.com

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Kenny Chesney Boys of Fall Video to Debut August 2 on SportsCenter, ESPN.com and ESPNRise.com

ESPN will debut the video for award-winning country music star Kenny Chesney’s newest song Boys of Fall Monday, Aug. 2. SportsCenter will air a more than four minute video exclusively at the conclusion of the 11 a.m. ET and 2 p.m. editions (approximately 55 minutes past each hour). The original eight minute version of the video created by Chesney will be available on ESPN.com and ESPNRise.com through the week beginning Aug. 2.

Boys of Fall is the debut single from Chesney’s upcoming album, Hemingway’s Whiskey, scheduled to be released on Sept. 28. The song captures the spirit of playing and being a fan of football, specifically the moments, details, heart and lessons the game embodies. The video features a montage of Chesney singing the song with high school, college and NFL football game highlights, and various fan, coach’s speeches and football-related community shots.

After two weeks of radio airplay, The Boys of Fall is already a Top 15 hit at country radio, ranking among the fastest-rising singles of Chesney’s career.

Kenny Chesney, the current and four-time Country Music Association Entertainer of the Year and four-consecutive Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year, is the only concert act in any genre to sell over a million tickets in North America each of the past seven years. The songwriter from Luttrell, Tennessee is known for his sense of what it means to come of age in the 21st century and a laidback vibe that defines what it means to “chill out/play hard/work hard.”

-30-

Filed Under: ESPN

ESPN Films Announces ’30 for 30′ Fall Schedule; Gibney, Nash, Shelton, Singleton and More

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

ESPN Films Announces ‘30 for 30’ Fall Schedule

Alex Gibney, Steve Nash, Ron Shelton and John Singleton among the next group of filmmakers; four new films announced

ESPN Films has announced the fall schedule for its critically acclaimed film series 30 for 30 Presented by Cadillac. The series’ remaining films will begin airing Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN/ESPN HD, and will be aired Tuesday nights throughout the fall. New films added to the lineup include Little Big Men (Al Szymanski and Peter Franchella), Unmatched (Directors: Lisa Lax and Nancy Stern Winters; Producer: Hannah Storm), Four Days in October (Major League Baseball Productions) and Pony Excess (Thaddeus D. Matula). These films join the previously announced Jordan Rides the Bus, One Night in Vegas, The House of Steinbrenner, Marion Jones: Press Pause, Steve Bartman: Catching Hell, Tim Richmond: To the Limit, Once Brothers, Into The Wind and The Best That Never Was.

The schedule:

Film summaries

Jordan Rides the Bus (Ron Shelton)

In the fall of 1993, in his prime and at the summit of the sports world, Michael Jordan walked away from pro basketball. After leading the Dream Team to an Olympic gold medal in 1992 and taking the Chicago Bulls to their third consecutive NBA championship the following year, Jordan was jolted by the murder of his father. Was it the brutal loss of such an anchor in his life that caused the world’s most famous athlete to rekindle a childhood ambition by playing baseball? Or some feeling that he had nothing left to prove or conquer in basketball? Or something deeper and perhaps not yet understood? Academy Award-nominated director Ron Shelton, a former minor leaguer who brought his experiences to life in the classic movie Bull Durham, will revisit Jordan’s short career in the minor leagues and explore the motivations that drove the world’s most competitive athlete to play a new sport in the relative obscurity of Birmingham, Ala., for a young manager named Terry Francona.

Little Big Men (Al Szymanski and Peter Franchella)

On August 28, 1982, Cody Webster and a small group of schoolyard friends from Kirkland, Wash., sat anxiously in a dugout waiting to take the field for the championship game of the Little League World Series. Their focus was just about what you’d expect from any 12-year-old: hit the ball, throw strikes, cross your fingers and then maybe – maybe – you’ll win. Adults in the stands and watching from home saw a much broader field of play. The memories of American hostages and a crippling oil crisis were still fresh; the economic malaise of the late 1970s still lingered; and the new President was recovering from an assassination attempt even while confronting new threats from the Soviet Union. Meanwhile, back on that tiny baseball field in Williamsport, Pa., where America’s game was celebrated each summer, no American team had won a true international Little League World Series Championship in more than a decade. When the Kirkland players rushed from their dugout that day, they stepped onto a much bigger field than the one they saw. What they did, how they did it, and what happened to each of the players in the years that followed is a multi-faceted story. Emmy Award-winning filmmakers Al Szymanski and Peter Franchella will examine what became of a group of childhood teammates when the high point in their athletic lives occurred before their lives had really begun.

One Night in Vegas (Reggie Bythewood)

On the evening of September 7, 1996, Mike Tyson, the WBC heavyweight champion, attempted to take Bruce Seldon’s WBA title at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. At this point in his career, Tyson’s fights had become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon, where the ever present hype of the professional boxing scene would come face to face with the worlds of big business, Hollywood, and hip hop. Sitting ringside was controversial rapper Tupac Shakur. Shakur and Tyson were friends; a feeling of kinship linked them as each rose to stardom from poverty only to be thrown in prison. Following Tyson’s victory, Shakur and “Iron Mike” were to celebrate at an after party, but the rap star never arrived. Shakur was brutally gunned down later that night, and the scene in Las Vegas quickly turned from would be celebratory revelry to ill fated and inopportune tragedy. Director Reggie Bythewood, with the full cooperation of Mike Tyson, will tell not only the story of that infamous night but of the remarkable friendship between Tyson and Tupac.

Unmatched (Directors: Lisa Lax and Nancy Stern Winters; Producer: Hannah Storm)

The first time Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova stepped onto a tennis court together, the world scarcely noticed. Only a few hundred spectators saw the pert 18-year-old beat the scrappy 16-year-old Czech in 1973. “I remember that she was fat,” Evert recalled. “She was very emotional on the court, whining if she didn’t feel she was playing well. But I remember thinking, if she loses weight, we’re all in trouble.” Said Navratilova, “My goal was for her to remember my name.” Eighty matches later – amid the extraordinary growth of women’s tennis – Evert not only remembered, but became a tried and true friend and confidante, remarkable considering the two appeared to be polar opposites in upbringing, life styles and personal relationships. Through a series of personal conversations between Evert and Navratilova, filmmakers Lisa Lax and Nancy Stern Winters, along with producer Hannah Storm, will tell the story of one of the greatest one-on-one sports rivalries and capture these two extraordinary athletes’ views on tennis and an ever-changing world.

The House of Steinbrenner (Barbara Kopple)

Love them or hate them, the Yankees remain the most successful team in American sports history. Behind George M. Steinbrenner, a man who at his passing in July 2010 has proven to be as iconic to the team as its pinstripes, the Yankees restored their storied sports stature with seven World Championships. Through all the ups and downs of his reign, “The Boss” managed to link the legends and legacy of Yankees past to Yankees present, and in so doing, assured the passage of older generations of Yankee fans to a younger generation that promises to carry forward well into the 21st century. An essential part of that accomplishment included the closing of the old Yankee Stadium and the construction of a new one, and the passing of ownership from George himself to his heirs, led by his younger son, Hal.  Two-time Oscar-winning filmmaker Barbara Kopple documents this historic moment of transition for the team, the family and its fans, all of which was magnificently capped off with the Yankees’ 27th World Championship.

Into The Wind (Steve Nash)
In 1980, Terry Fox continued his fight against bone cancer with the pursuit of a singular, motivating vision: to run across Canada. Three years after having his right leg amputated six inches above the knee after being diagnosed with osteosarcoma, Fox set out to cover more than a marathon’s distance each day until he reached the shores of Victoria, British Columbia. Anonymous at the start of his journey, Fox steadily captured the heart of a nation with his Marathon of Hope.  However the 21-year old BC native’s goal was not fame, but to spread awareness and raise funds for cancer research. After 143 days and two-thirds of the way across Canada, with the eyes of a country watching, Fox’s journey came to an abrupt end when newly discovered tumors took over his body. Two-time NBA MVP, proud Canadian, and first-time filmmaker Steve Nash will share Fox’s incredible story of perseverance and hope.

Four Days in October (Major League Baseball Productions)

When the night of October 6, 2004 came to a merciful end, the Curse of the Bambino was alive and well. The vaunted Yankee lineup, led by A-Rod, Jeter, and Sheffield, had just extended their ALCS lead to three games to none, pounding out 19 runs against their hated rivals. The next night, in Game 4, the Yankees took a 4-3 lead into the bottom of the ninth inning, then turned the game over to Mariano Rivera, the best relief pitcher in postseason history, to secure yet another trip to the World Series. But after a walk and a hard-fought stolen base, the cold October winds of change began to blow. Over four consecutive days and nights, this unlikely group of Red Sox miraculously won four straight games to overcome the inevitability of their destiny. Using extensive archive coverage from that week, Major League Baseball Productions will produce a film in “real-time” that takes an in-depth look at the 96 hours that brought salvation to Red Sox Nation and made baseball history in the process.

Once Brothers (NBA Entertainment)

Drazen Petrovic and Vlade Divac were two friends who grew up together sharing the common bond of basketball. Together, they lifted the Yugoslavian National team to unimaginable heights.  After conquering Europe, they both went to America where they became the first two foreign players to attain NBA stardom. But with the fall of the Soviet Union on Christmas Day 1991, Yugoslavia split up. A war broke out between Petrovic’s Croatia and Divac’s Serbia.  Long buried ethnic tensions surfaced. And these two men, once blood brothers, were now on opposite sides of a deadly civil war.  As Petrovic and Divac continued to face each other on the basketball courts of the NBA, only hatred passed between the two. Then, on the fateful night of June 7, 1993, Drazen Petrovic was killed in an auto accident. Once Brothers will tell the gripping tale of these two men, how circumstances beyond their control tore apart their friendship, and whether Divac has ever come to terms with the death of a friend before they had a chance to reconcile.

Tim Richmond: To the Limit (Rory Karpf)
Natural. Rock star. Outsider. In the 1980s, race car driver Tim Richmond lived his life the way he raced cars – wide open. Born into a wealthy family, Richmond was the antithesis of the Southern, blue-collar, dirt-track racers who dominated NASCAR. He also was a flamboyant showman who basked in the attention of the media and fans – especially the attention of female admirers. Nevertheless, it was Richmond’s on-track performances that ended up drawing comparisons to racing legends. And in 1986, when he won seven NASCAR races and finished third in the Winston Cup series points race, some believed he was on the verge of stardom. But soon his freewheeling lifestyle caught up to him. He unexpectedly withdrew from the NASCAR racing circuit, reportedly suffering from double pneumonia. In reality, the diagnosis was much more dire: He had AIDS. Richmond returned to the track in 1987, but he was gone from the sport by the next year as his health deteriorated. He spent his final days as a recluse, dying on August 13, 1989, at the age of 34. Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Rory Karpf will examine the life and tragic death of one of NASCAR’s shooting stars.

Steve Bartman: Catching Hell (Alex Gibney)

With five outs remaining in Game 6 of the 2003 NLCS, a foul ball descended from the cold Chicago sky, seemingly destined for the glove of Cubs left fielder Moises Alou. But a flurry of hands reached up from the left field stands, and one hand, belonging to Cubs fan Steve Bartman, fatefully tipped the ball away from a frustrated Alou. As the cameras subsequently isolated on Bartman trying to stay composed in the stands, most long-suffering Cubs fans, including a chorus of hostile ones in Wrigley Field, quickly became convinced that he had swatted away Chicago’s chance of advancing to the World Series for the first time 58 years. Even though he was one of many who reached for a ball that appeared to them clearly out of play, and even though Cubs shortstop Alex Gonzalez booted an apparent inning-ending double play ball, and even though the Cubs still had a Game 7 left to try to win it, Steve Bartman became the most reviled man in Chicago. The mild-mannered Bartman released a sincere public apology, but his fate was already sealed by the Cubs fans’ need for a scapegoat to explain a near-century of losing. Although Cubs Nation has since moved on to other seasons and other losses, Bartman remains ostracized from a community he lives in and a team he once loved. Oscar-winning documentarian Alex Gibney relates the scapegoat compulsion to his own frustration as a Red Sox fan when Bill Buckner was similarly singled out for letting a fateful ground ball go through his legs in Game 6 of the 1986 World Series.  Gibney engages Buckner and his story as a means of exploring what has kept Bartman so silent despite highly lucrative offers to tell his side of the story, and what has led many fans and media people in Chicago to now act as if the whole notorious incident never even took place.

Marion Jones: Press Pause (John Singleton)

Few athletes in Olympic history have reached such heights and depths as Marion Jones. After starring at the University of North Carolina and winning gold at the 1997 and 1999 World Track and Field Championships, her rise to the top culminated at the 2000 Summer Games in Sydney, Australia. There, she captivated the world with her beauty, style and athletic dominance, sprinting and jumping to three gold medals and two bronze. Eventually, though, her accomplishments and her reputation would be tarnished. For years, Jones denied the increasing speculation that she used performance-enhancing drugs. But in October 2007, she finally admitted what so many had long suspected – that she had indeed used steroids. Jones was sentenced to six months in prison for lying to federal investigators and soon saw her Olympic achievements disqualified. Now a free woman, Jones is running in a new direction in life and taking time to reflect. Oscar-nominated director John Singleton will focus on the evolution of Marion Jones.

Pony Excess (Thaddeus D. Matula)

From 1981-1984, a small private school in Dallas owned the best record in college football. The Mustangs of Southern Methodist University (SMU) were riding high on the backs of the vaunted “Pony Express” backfield. But as the middle of the decade approached, the program was coming apart at the seams. Wins became the only thing that mattered as the University increasingly ceded power of the football program to the city’s oil barons and real estate tycoons and flagrant and frequent NCAA violations became the norm. On February 25, 1987, the school and the sport were rocked, as the NCAA meted out “the death penalty” on a college football program for the first and only time in its history. SMU would be without football for two years, and the fan base would be without an identity for 20 more until the Mustangs’ win in the 2009 Hawaii Bowl. This is the story of Dallas in the 1980′s and the greed, power, and corruption that spilled from the oil fields onto the football field and all the way to the Governor’s Mansion. Director Thaddeus D. Matula, a product of the SMU film school, chronicles the rise, fall, and rebirth of this once mighty team.

The Best That Never Was (Jonathan Hock)

In 1981, college athletic recruiting changed forever as a dozen big-time football programs sat waiting for the decision by a physically powerful and lightning-quick high school running back named Marcus Dupree. Having already graced the cover of Sports Illustrated, Dupree attracted recruiters from schools in every major conference to his hometown of Philadelphia, Miss. More than a decade removed from being a flashpoint in the civil rights struggle, Philadelphia was once again thrust back into the national spotlight. Dupree took the attention in stride, and committed to Oklahoma. What followed, though, was a forgettable college career littered with conflict, injury and oversized expectations. Eight-time Emmy Award winner Jonathan Hock will examine why this star burned out so young and how he ultimately used football to redeem himself.

The series

“30 for 30” is an unprecedented documentary series featuring 30 films from some of today’s finest storytellers. Each filmmaker brings their passion and personal point of view to their film detailing the issues, trends, athletes, teams, rivalries, games and events that transformed the sports landscape from 1979 to 2009.  Crossing the barriers of sports, the films reflect on the impact these events had across the pop culture spectrum.

Select films from the series are available for purchase on iTunes the day following air. Additional films are available for purchase at www.amazon.com/30for30.

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Filed Under: ESPN

“Sunday MLB on TBS” to Feature a Battle between AL East Frontrunners with New York Yankees @ Tampa Bay Rays

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

“Sunday MLB on TBS” to Feature a Battle between AL East Frontrunners with New York Yankees @ Tampa Bay Rays

Cy Young Award-Winning Yankee CC Sabathia to Pitch Against the Rays’ James Shields

“Sunday MLB on TBS” continues on August 1 when eleven-time All-Star and former World Series MVP Derek Jeter and the New York Yankees visit All-Star third baseman Evan Longoria and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field at 1:30 p.m. (ET). CC Sabathia is scheduled to pitch for the Yankees against the Rays’ probable starter James Shields.  Ernie Johnson will call play-by-play alongside analysts Buck Martinez and Dennis Eckersley.

“Sunday MLB on TBS” includes match-ups on TBS every Sunday afternoon throughout the regular season.  The network will also begin providing exclusive coverage of the Division Series and the American League Championship Series (ALCS) in October 2010.

TBS has broadcast MLB coverage for more than 30 years serving as the exclusive home of the MLB Division Series (DS) and one League Championship Series (LCS) since 2007 and home of Atlanta Braves coverage from 1977 to 2007.

SUNDAY MLB ON TBS SCHEDULE:

DAY/DATE

TIME (ET)             EVENT

Sun., August 1

1:30 p.m.                 New York Yankees @ Tampa Bay Rays

Announcers: Ernie Johnson (play-by-play), Buck Martinez (analyst) & Dennis Eckersley (analyst)

Sun., August 8

1:30 p.m.                 San Francisco Giants @ Atlanta Braves

Announcers: Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Buck Martinez (analyst)

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Filed Under: MLB, TBS

Braves/Reds; Tigers/Red Sox; Dodgers/Giants Battle This Saturday on FOX

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

FOX SPORTS NOTES, QUOTES & ANECDOTES

Ringolsby: “Bubble Teams Notably Absent From Chatter”

DIVISION LEADERS FACE OFF IN CINCY – As high temps sweep across the country, playoff races are also heating up across MLB. On Saturday, July 31 (4:00 PM ET), the FOX SATURDAY BASEBALL GAME OF THE WEEK features three enticing matchups. In Cincinnati, a pair of division leaders face off as Brian McCann and the NL East-leading Braves visit Joey Votto and the NL Central-leading Reds. In Boston, the Red Sox continue their push for a postseason birth when they welcome Miguel Cabrera and the Tigers to Fenway. Out west, California rivals meet and look to keep pace in the NL Wild Card race as Barry Zito and the Giants host Andre Ethier and the Dodgers in San Fran. This week, the pregame show originates live from AT&T Park in San Francisco with host Chris Rose. Once game action begins, Rose joins the game crew including Kenny Albert and Eric Karros as a field reporter.

For instant updates throughout the week and during games from the entire MLB on FOX crew, follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/MLBONFOX.  Fans can gain more access to exclusive FOX Sports content by logging on to www.facebook.com/foxsports and www.myspace.com/foxsports.

GAME PLAY-BY-PLAY/ANALYST COV.

Atlanta Braves at Cincinnati Reds                 Thom Brennaman & Kevin Millar                     42%

Great American Ballpark – Cincinnati, OH

MARKETS INCLUDE:  Atlanta, Austin, Birmingham, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Greensboro, Greenville, Houston, Indianapolis, Jacksonville, Knoxville, Louisville, Memphis, Milwaukee, Nashville, New Orleans, Norfolk, Orlando, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Raleigh, Richmond, San Antonio, St. Louis, Tulsa, Washington

Probable Pitchers: TBA vs. Bronson Arroyo, RHP (10-6, 4.21 ERA)

Detroit Tigers at Boston Red Sox                                   Dick Stockton, Mark Grace                                               37%

& Ken Rosenthal

Fenway Park – Boston, MA

MARKETS INCLUDE:  Baltimore, Boston, Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Fort Myers, Hartford, Kansas City, Miami, New York, Minneapolis, Oklahoma City, Providence, Seattle, Tampa, West Palm Beach

Probable Pitchers: Max Scherzer. RHP (7-8, 4.45 ERA) vs. TBA

Los Angeles Dodgers at San Francisco Giants          Kenny Albert & Eric Karros                                               20%

AT&T Park – San Francisco, CA

MARKETS INCLUDE:  Albuquerque, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Sacramento, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco

Probable Pitchers:TBA vs. Barry Zito, LHP (8-6, 3.49 ERA)

RINGOLSBY: “BUBBLE TEAMS NOTABLY ABSENT FROM CHATTER” – With the trade deadline just days away, it’s time for teams to decide whether they’re sellers, buyers, or just staying put. FOXSports.com writer Tracy Ringolsby discusses how the Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers are in unfamiliar territory. “The deadline is nearing and the Red Sox are lumped with Detroit, Oakland, the Mets, Colorado and Florida on the list of teams that would like to be buyers but find themselves in limbo as to whether they should buy or sell,” said Ringolsby. “Boston has become more of an observer, at least publicly, than a participant in this year’s deadline deal discussions. Detroit was considered at one point to be involved in the bidding for pitchers Dan Haren and Roy Oswalt, but the Tigers have had to take a step backward in light of their suddenly injury-ravaged roster.  More concerning is that Boston has been hit with a series of serious injuries that have put them eight games back of the AL East-leading Yankees and five games behind second-place Tampa Bay.”

For more from Tracy click here:  http://tinyurl.com/29rty77

GLAZE ACROSS AMERICA TOUR KICKS OFF – The offseason has been left to yesterday.  Vacation is over and it’s time for FOXSports.com’s NFL Insider Jay Glazer to go “camping” again.  NFL players exchange their summer vacation rentals for college dormitories. Cafeteria chow lines replace fine cuisine and hours of lounging by the pool gives way to hours of meetings and practice under the blazing sun. Since 1999 Glazer has annually embarked upon a 40-day NFL training camp tour, something fans can follow this year on FOXSports.com’s “Glaze Across America.” Follow Jay for forty straight days of hopping from town to town, hotel to hotel, rental car to rental car and visits to 25 teams.

– FOX SPORTS –

Filed Under: FOX, MLB

Fan Forum Featuring NFL Commissioner Goodell Airs Thursday at 8:00 PM ET — NFL NETWORK PROGRAMMING NOTES (7/28-8/3)

July 29, 2010 By 1 Comment

NFL NETWORK PROGRAMMING NOTES (7/28-8/3)

FAN FORUM FEATURING NFL COMMISIONER GOODELL AIRS THURSDAY AT 8:00 PM ET

“An Open Conversation with NFL Fans & Their Commissioner”

Interview with Commissioner Goodell on NFL Total Access Tonight at 7:00 PM ET

Spokane and Jacksonville Face Off on Arena Football Friday at 8:00 PM ET

CFL Football Features Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders Saturday at 6:30 PM ET

Fan Forum Featuring NFL Commissioner Goodell Thursday at 8:00 PM ET

“An Open Conversation with NFL Fans and their Commissioner”

Following the Packers shareholders meeting at Lambeau Field on Thursday, Commissioner Goodell will participate in a question-and-answer session with 120 Green Bay fans to hear their comments and concerns regarding the state of the NFL. The hour-long Fan Forum is on NFL Network Thursday at 8:00 PM ET.

The Fan Forum presents an exciting opportunity for fans to have their questions addressed in a personal setting with no topic off limits. In addition to inquiries from fans, Goodell will interact with the fans to gain better insight into their perspectives of the NFL. The event is intended to continue communication between the fans and the league. It will provide an open, transparent look into the current events of the NFL as training camps open.

Commissioner Goodell Joins NFL Total Access for an interview Wednesday at 7:00 PM ET

Commissioner Goodell joins Rich Eisen for an interview on NFL Total Access Wednesday at 7:00 PM ET.  Goodell will discuss the upcoming Fan Forum, which will afford him the opportunity to interact with fans and openly share information about the state of the league. The Commissioner will also address the opening of training camps, the start of the 2010 season, joining John Madden on his bus tour and other topics.

Spokane Shock vs. Jacksonville Sharks on ‘Arena Football Friday’ at 8:00 PM ET

In both teams’ last regular season game, the Spokane Shock take on the Jacksonville Sharks on Friday at 8:00 PM ET.

The Sharks, with only one loss at home, are hoping to put an end to the Shock’s eleven-game winning streak. Jacksonville just played their last road game of the season, defeating the Battle Wings 48-20, which included 29 unanswered points in the second half. QB Bernard Morris threw for 228 yards in his first start ever and WR Dallas Baker became the first Jacksonville players to catch for over 1,000 yards.

The Shock, having already earned the best record this season and a home game for playoffs, are hoping to finish the regular season on a high note. They defeated the Sharks 67-57 earlier this year and have been nearly unstoppable in recent months. QB Kyle Rowley set the tone early last game, throwing for a touchdown on the team’s opening drive. With the help of a strong performance by the Spokane defense, the Shock defeated the Chicago Rush 63-49 last week on Arena Football Friday.

Paul Burmeister calls the play-by-play with game analysis by Anthony Herron.

Hamilton Takes on Saskatchewan in CFL Game Saturday at 6:30 PM ET

This weekend’s CFL matchup between the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Saskatchewan Roughriders airs live at 6:30 PM ET Saturday.

After being handed their first loss of the season, the Roughriders are looking to bounce back against the Tiger-Cats. Saskatchewan (3-1) is currently tied for first place in their division.

Roughriders QB Darian Durant has been a dominating force for the team, having thrown for over 1,300 yards already this season. Though his numbers are slightly lower, Hamilton QB Kevin Glenn was recently named CFL Offensive Player of the Week after completing over 70% of his passes last week versus Montreal, and rookie RB Marcus Thigpen is expected to continue his strong presence on the Tiger-Cats offense.

THIS WEEK ON NFL TOTAL ACCESS: Commissioner Goodell Discusses Fan Forum, Training Camps, Madden Bus Tour, and More

Wednesday, July 28

  • Remote interview with Commissioner Goodell in preparation for Packers Fan Forum
  • Interview with Browns President Mike Holmgren
  • Scott Hanson reports from the Denver Broncos training facility
  • Michael Lombardi goes ‘Around the League’

Thursday, July 29

  • Brian Baldinger has exclusive coverage from Dallas Cowboys preseason practice
  • Lindsay Soto reports from the Washington Redskins training facility
  • Steve Wyche reports from the Minnesota Vikings training facility
  • Michael Lombardi reports from the New England Patriots training facility
  • Jason La Canfora goes ‘Around the League’

Friday, July 30

  • Steve Wyche reports from the Minnesota Vikings training facility
  • Scott Hanson reports from the Pittsburgh Steelers training facility
  • Jason La Canfora goes ‘Around the League’

THIS WEEK ON NFL.COM: Chat with NFL Network Insider Jason La Canfora

Thursday, July 22

  • CHAT: Bucky Brooks (2:00 PM ET)

Friday, July 23

  • CHAT: Jason La Canfora (12 NOON ET)
  • CHAT: Steve Wyche (2:00 PM ET)

DAY-BY-DAY PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE (all times listed are ET)

Wednesday, July 28

4:00 PM – Around the League (HD)

4:30 PM – NFL Film Session: Super Bowl XXXII – Denver Broncos vs. Green Bay Packers

5:00 PM – NFL Film Session: NFL’s Greatest Rivalries

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Characters

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

8:00 PM – America’s Game: 1968 New York Jets (HD)

9:00 PM – America’s Game: 1970 Indianapolis Colts (HD)

10:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

11:00 PM – America’s Game: 1968 New York Jets (HD)

12 MIDNIGHT – America’s Game: 1970 Indianapolis Colts (HD)

Thursday, July 29

1:00 PM – NFL Films Presents: Pound the Rock

2:00 PM – America’s Game: 1968 New York Jets (HD)

3:00 PM – America’s Game: 1970 Indianapolis Colts (HD)

4:00 PM – Around the League (HD)

4:30 PM – NFL Film Session: Super Bowl XXXIII – Denver Broncos vs. Atlanta Falcons

5:00 PM – NFL Film Session: NFL’s Greatest Stars

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Football Myths

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

8:00 PM – Packers Fan Forum: Featuring Commissioner Goodell (HD) – NFL NETWORK SPECIAL

9:00 PM – America’s Game: 1996 Green Bay Packers (HD)

10:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

11:00 PM – Packers Fan Forum: Featuring Commissioner Goodell (HD)

12 MIDNIGHT – America’s Game: 1996 Green Bay Packers (HD)

Friday, July 30

1:00 PM – NFL Films Presents: Fantastic Finishes

2:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Most Versatile

3:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Comebacks

4:00 PM – Around the League (HD)

4:30 PM – NFL Film Session: Super Bowl XXXIV – St. Louis Rams vs. Tennessee Titans

5:00 PM – NFL Film Session: Pure Gold – 45 Years of 49ers

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Follies

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

8:00 PM – Arena Football Friday: Spokane Shock vs. Jacksonville Sharks (HD) – LIVE

11:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

12 MIDNIGHT – Arena Football Friday: Spokane Shock vs. Jacksonville Sharks (HD)

Saturday, July 31

11:00 AM – Sound FX: 2009, Week 17 (HD)

11:30 AM – NFL Follies: Super Duper Football Follies

12:30 PM – NFL Follies: Best of Football Follies

1:30 PM – America’s Game: 1968 New York Jets (HD)

2:30 PM – America’s Game: 1970 Indianapolis Colts (HD)

3:30 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Most Versatile

4:30 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Comebacks

5:30 PM – NFL Total Access: Week in Review (HD)

6:30 PM – CFL Game: Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders (HD) – LIVE

9:30 PM – NFL Total Access: Week in Review (HD)

10:30 PM – Super Bowl Classics: Super Bowl XXXI – Green Bay Packers vs. New England Patriots

Sunday, August 1

9:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Passing Combinations

10:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Opening Days

11:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Controversial Calls

12 NOON – NFL’s Top 10: Gunslingers

1:00 PM – Sound FX: Super Bowl XLIV (HD)

1:30 PM – NFL Weekly Countdown: 2009 Season (HD)

2:00 PM – NFL Replay: 2009 AFC Championship – New York Jets vs. Indianapolis Colts (HD)

3:30 PM – NFL Replay: 2009 NFC Championship – Minnesota Vikings vs. New Orleans Saints (HD)

5:00 PM – NFL Replay: Super Bowl XLIV – New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts (HD)

7:00 PM – Sound FX: Championship Week (HD)

7:30 PM – Sound FX: Super Bowl XLIV (HD)

8:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Characters

9:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Follies

10:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Foul-Ups

11:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Team Nicknames

12 MIDNIGHT – NFL’s Top 10: Characters

Monday, August 2

11:00 AM – NFL Replay: 2009 AFC Championship – New York Jets vs. Indianapolis Colts (HD)

12:30 PM – NFL Replay: 2009 NFC Championship – Minnesota Vikings vs. New Orleans Saints (HD)

2:00 PM – NFL Replay: Super Bowl XLIV – New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts (HD)

4:00 PM – Around the League (HD)

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Opening Days

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Greatest Hands

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

8:00 PM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

9:00 PM – America’s Game – The Missing Rings: 1998 Minnesota Vikings (HD)

10:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

11:00 PM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

12 MIDNIGHT – America’s Game – The Missing Rings: 1998 Minnesota Vikings (HD)

Tuesday, August 3

11:00 AM – America’s Game: 1993 Dallas Cowboys (HD)

12 NOON – America’s Game – The Missing Rings: 1998 Minnesota Vikings (HD)

1:00 PM – NFL Film Session: 1994 San Francisco 49ers

1:30 PM – NFL Film Session: 1969 Denver Broncos

2:00 PM – Legends of the Hall: Defenders

2:30 PM – Legends of the Hall: Quarterbacks

3:00 PM – Legends of the Hall: Teams

3:30 PM – Legends of the Hall: Coaches

4:00 PM – Around the League (HD)

5:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Linebacking Corps

6:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Super Bowl Performances

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

8:00 PM – America’s Game: 1982 Washington Redskins (HD)

9:00 PM – America’s Game: 1989 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

10:00 PM – NFL Total Access (HD)

11:00 PM – America’s Game: 1982 Washington Redskins (HD)

12 MIDNIGHT – America’s Game: 1989 San Francisco 49ers (HD)

Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

ESPN 3D Schedules First Three 2010 College Football Games

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment

ESPN 3D Schedules First Three 2010 College Football Games

The first two weeks of ESPN 3D’s inaugural college football season will open up with telecasts involving three of the top five ranked teams in an ESPN.com early preseason Top 25 poll. Coverage will begin with No. 2 Boise State, entering the season with a 14-game winning streak, against No. 5 Virginia Tech from FedEx Field, home of the Washington Redskins Monday, Sept. 6 at 8 p.m. ET.  The network will telecast approximately 13 college football games this season, concluding with the Tostitos BCS National Championship Game on Monday, January 10 at 8:30 p.m.

On Sept. 11 at 3:40 p.m. defending Big Ten Conference champion No. 3 Ohio State will host No. 19 Miami of the ACC in the first meeting between the perennial powers since the Buckeyes defeated the Hurricanes 31-24 in the 2003 Tostitos Fiesta Bowl to win the 2002 BCS National Championship.  This marks the second time that Ohio State has been featured in 3D by ESPN as the team’s game against USC on Sept. 9, 2009, served as a test telecast for the network.

The third week of the season features a showdown between traditional powers from top conferences when Clemson from the ACC travels to Auburn from the SEC on Sept. 18 with kickoff slated for 7 p.m.

In addition to ESPN 3D, ESPN’s comprehensive coverage of the 2010 college football season will feature more than 400 regular- and postseason games across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU, ESPN3.com, ESPN Regional Television, ESPN Radio, ESPN Classic, ESPN Mobile TV and ESPN GamePlan.

In addition to the games announced today, ESPN 3D will telecast a featured college football game almost every week of the season.  Additional dates will be announced as the season progresses; schedule subject to change.  Sony is the official sponsor of college football on ESPN 3D, and college football games televised on ESPN 3D will utilize Sony professional cameras.

ESPN 3D will be announcing additional programming, including NBA, college basketball and Winter X Games 15, throughout the year.

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Filed Under: ESPN, NCAA Football

MLB Network to Air More Than 5 Hours of Live Trade Deadline Coverage on July 31

July 29, 2010 By Leave a Comment


MLB NETWORK TO AIR MORE THAN FIVE HOURS OF LIVE TRADE DEADLINE COVERAGE ON SATURDAY, JULY 31

Gammons, Hart, Heyman, Reynolds, Verducci & Others Part of Coverage Starting at 11:00 a.m. ET

MLB Network to Countdown the 40 Most Memorable Trades in MLB History at 6:00 p.m. ET

Secaucus, N.J., July 28, 2010 – MLB Network will provide more than five hours of live coverage of the MLB Trade Deadline on Saturday, July 31 from 11:00 a.m. ET until 4:30 p.m. ET. Greg Amsinger, Matt Vasgersian, Peter Gammons, John Hart, Jon Heyman, Joe Magrane, Dan Plesac, Harold Reynolds and Tom Verducci will cover every move leading up to the 4:00 p.m. ET deadline. MLB.com senior writer Jonathan Mayo and MLB Network Insiders and sportswriters Phil Rogers, Richard Justice and Tracy Ringolsby will contribute analysis on-air throughout the day. Saturday’s coverage follows MLB Network’s hour-long Path to the Trade Deadline specials airing daily this week before MLB Tonight.

MLB Network will air MLB Network Countdown: The 40 Most Memorable Trades in MLB History, an hour-long show recapping the most influential trades that led to Hall of Fame careers, pennants, World Series titles and other significant franchise moments. Narrated by Vasgersian, the countdown includes: John Smoltz being traded by the Detroit Tigers to the Atlanta Braves in 1987, the New York Mets trading Hall of Famer Tom Seaver to the Cincinnati Reds in 1977, the Texas Rangers trading Alex Rodriguez to the New York Yankees for Alfonso Soriano in 2004, Hall of Famer Nellie Fox’s trade to the Chicago White Sox from the Philadelphia Athletics in 1949, and the Cincinnati Reds trading Hall of Famer and pitching great Christy Mathewson to the New York Giants in 1900.

Saturday Night Baseball at 7:00 p.m. ET will feature the AL first-place New York Yankees at division rival Tampa Bay Rays, with select television markets seeing the Oakland Athletics at Chicago White Sox at 7:00 p.m. ET. Immediately following the game, MLB Tonight will return live for one hour, while MLB Network’s Hazel Mae will recap the day’s game action on Quick Pitch at 11:00 p.m. ET.

MLB Network launched on January 1, 2009 as the largest debut in cable television history and is currently available in approximately 55 million cable, telco TV and satellite homes. In its inaugural year, MLB Network was honored with four Sports Emmy Awards and 12 nominations by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. With live games, original programming, highlights, classic games, and coverage of baseball events, MLB Network is the ultimate television destination for baseball fans. For more information and to find MLB Network in your area, go to www.MLBNetwork.com.  www.Facebook.com/MLBNetwork www.Twitter.com/MLBNetwork

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Filed Under: MLB, MLBN
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