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Archives for February 2015

Broadway vs. Broad Street In Primetime – Philadelphia Flyers Host New York Rangers On NBC In Primetime Saturday Night At 8 P.M. ET

February 25, 2015 By admin

nhl_nbc_2Sidney Crosby and Pittsburgh Penguins Visit Alex Ovechkin and Capitals on Wednesday Night Rivalry at 8 p.m. ET on NBCSN

League-Leading Nashville Predators Host Minnesota Wild Thursday Night at 8:30 p.m. ET on NBCSN

Coverage Kicks Off Tomorrow Night with Flyers-Hurricanes at 7 p.m. ET on NBCSN; Concludes Sunday with Ducks-Stars at 8 p.m. ET

College Hockey – Notre Dame Hosts No. 9 Boston College in Hockey East Matchups Friday and Saturday on NBCSN

STAMFORD, Conn. – Feb. 23, 2015 – Broad Street meets Broadway this Saturday night in primetime on NBC, when Claude Giroux and the Philadelphia Flyers host Rick Nash and the New York Rangers on Saturday night at 8 p.m. ET. Saturday night’s game marks the first regularly-scheduled non-Stadium Series NHL game on NBC in primetime. This week’s hockey coverage on NBCSN features six games, highlighted by a Wednesday Night Rivalry matchup between Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals, and Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Emmy Award-winning play-by-play commentator and Sports Illustrated 2014 Media Person of the Year Mike ‘Doc’ Emrick, analyst Eddie Olczyk and Emmy Award-winning Inside-the-Glass analyst Pierre McGuire will have the call of NBC’s Saturday night primetime matchup between the Rangers and Flyers, and NBCSN’s Wednesday Night Rivalry game between the Penguins and Capitals.

The top team in the NHL will face off against the league’s hottest team on Thursday night on NBCSN, when Pekka Rinne and the league-leading Nashville Predators (87 points) host Zach Parise and the upstart Minnesota Wild, 11-1-2 in their last 14 games, at 8:30 p.m. ET. NHL coverage concludes Sunday at 8 p.m. ET, when Jamie Benn and the Dallas Stars host Ryan Getzlaf and the Anaheim Ducks. This week’s slate of games begins tomorrow night in Carolina, when Eric Staal and the Hurricanes host the Flyers at 7 p.m. ET on NBCSN.

In addition to this week’s NHL coverage, NBCSN will present a pair of Hockey East matchups on Friday and Saturday nights, featuring the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and No. 9 Boston College Eagles.

NHL Live, NBCSN’s pre- and post-game NHL studio show, begins one hour prior to puck drop of all games on NBCSN this week, except for tomorrow night’s coverage which begins at 6:30 p.m. ET. Liam McHugh and Kathryn Tappen will host this week’s coverage alongside former players and analysts Mike Milbury, Keith Jones and Jeremy Roenick. NHL insider Bob McKenzie will join NBCSN’s Wednesday Night Rivalry coverage to provide the latest in-depth news from around the league.

RANGERS-FLYERS – SATURDAY NIGHT AT 8 P.M. ET ON NBC

The Rangers and Flyers clash Saturday night in primetime on NBC as both teams jockey for positioning in the Metropolitan Division. Saturday’s game is the first regularly-scheduled non-Stadium Series NHL regular-season matchup in primetime on NBC since the network acquired NHL rights in 2006*. The Flyers (26-23-11, 63 pts) enter this week’s action four points behind the Bruins for the final Wild Card playoff spot, boast points in nine of their last 10 games, and look to build off of Sunday’s 3-2 win over Washington on NBC. The Rangers (36-16-6, 78 pts) have also recorded a point nine of 10 games, including a 4-3 shootout win over Columbus on Sunday night.

Saturday night’s game will feature two of the league’s premier offensive forces. Philadelphia’s Jakub Voracek has 63 points, one shy of Chicago’s Patrick Kane and Washington’s Nicklas Backstrom for the league lead, while New York’s Rick Nash has netted 37 goals, one behind Alex Ovechkin (38) for tops in the NHL.

*Note: NBC’s presentation of the 2011 NHL Winter Classic was moved to primetime due to weather conditions, and NBC’s presentation of the 2014 Stadium Series game between the Blackhawks and Penguins aired in primetime.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT RIVALRY – PENGUINS-CAPITALS – WEDNESDAY AT 8 P.M. ET ON NBCSN

The Penguins and Capitals enter their Wednesday Night Rivalry matchup separated by just one point in the Metropolitan Division standings. Pittsburgh (34-17-9, 77 pts) is coming off a 5-1 victory over Florida on Sunday, while the Caps fell to the Flyers in Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon. Washington has dominated the season series thus far against Pittsburgh, going 3-0 against the Penguins, and outscoring them 10-1 over those three contests.

Ovechkin and Crosby are currently tied for fifth in the NHL in points (61), and Ovechkin boasts the league lead in power play goals (17) and shots on goal (299).

WILD-PREDATORS – THURSDAY AT 8:30 P.M. ET ON NBCSN

Thursday night’s Central Division contest between the Wild and Predators pits the hottest team in the NHL against the league leaders. Minnesota (31-21-7, 69 pts) boasts a 13-2-2 record over its last 17 games, led by 16 points from Zach Parise (11g/5a) and strong goaltending from Devan Dubnyk in that span, propelling them at this time into the final Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. Nashville (40-13-7, 87 pts) continues to lead the NHL, six points clear of Anaheim and Montreal, led by goaltender Pekka Rinne, who leads the NHL in wins (34), and ranks second in goals against average and save percentage. This marks Minnesota’s first visit to Nashville with season, where the Predators have gone 25-3-1 this year.

Dave Strader (play-by-play) and Brian Engblom (Inside-the-Glass analyst) will call the action from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tenn.

DUCKS-STARS – SUNDAY NIGHT AT 8 P.M. ET ON NBCSN

The Ducks face the Stars on Sunday night on NBCSN, as Anaheim looks to build upon its Pacific Division lead, while Dallas continues to battle for playoff contention. Anaheim (37-16-7, 81 pts) leads Vancouver by 10 points for the division lead, and defeated Edmonton 2-1 on Saturday night. Dallas (27-24-9, 63 pts) trails Minnesota by six points, and fell to the Wild 6-2 on Sunday night.

John Forslund (play-by-play) and Daryl Reaugh (Inside-the-Glass analyst) will call the action from the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas.

FLYERS-HURRICANES – TOMORROW NIGHT AT 7 P.M. ET ON NBCSN

This week’s coverage kicks off tomorrow night in Raleigh, N.C., when the Carolina Hurricanes host the Flyers. The Hurricanes (21-30-7, 49 pts) fell 3-1 to the Devils in New Jersey on Saturday night, but defeated Philadelphia 2-1 in their most recent meeting on Jan. 2.

Jim Jackson (play-by-play), Keith Jones (analyst) and Chris Therien will call the action from PNC Arena in Raleigh, N.C.

COLLEGE HOCKEY – NOTRE DAME VS. NO. 9 BOSTON COLLEGE – FRIDAY AND SATURDAY ON NBCSN

NBCSN presents a Hockey East series this Friday and Saturday night between the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and No. 9 Boston College Eagles. Puck drop for Friday night is slated for 7:30 p.m. ET, and Saturday night’s coverage begins at 6 p.m. ET. The Eagles are in second place in Hockey East, and feature freshman defenseman and NHL prospect Noah Hanifin, projected to be a top defenseman in the 2015 NHL Draft. Notre Dame enters the final weekend of Hockey East tied for third place in the league, after an impressive weekend at then-No. 3 Boston University, following a 2-2 tie on Friday with a 3-2 win on Saturday.

Steve Schlanger (play-by-play) calls the action for both games. Pierre McGuire (Inside-The-Glass analyst) will be on the call Friday night, and Anson Carter will provide analysis on Saturday night.

Following is this week’s NHL telecast schedule on NBC and NBCSN. Games are subject to local blackout.

Date Coverage Network Time (ET)
Tues., February 24 NHL Live NBCSN 6:30 p.m.
Philadelphia at Carolina NBCSN 7 p.m.
NHL Rivals – Penguins-Capitals (Encore) NBCSN 10 p.m.
NHL Top 10s NBCSN 10:30 p.m.
Wed., February 25 NHL Live NBCSN 7 p.m.
Wednesday Night Rivalry – Pittsburgh at Washington NBCSN 8 p.m.
Thurs., February 26 NHL Live NBCSN 7:30 p.m.
Minnesota at Nashville NBCSN 8:30 p.m.
Fri., February 27 College Hockey – No. 9 Boston College at Notre Dame NBCSN 7:30 p.m.
Sat., February 28 College Hockey – No. 9 Boston College at Notre Dame NBCSN 6 p.m.
N.Y. Rangers at Philadelphia NBC 8 p.m.
Sun., March 1 NHL Live NBCSN 7 p.m.
Anaheim at Dallas NBCSN 8 p.m.

2014-15 REGULAR SEASON COVERAGE ON NBC & NBCSN

NBC Sports Group will deliver coverage of 103 NHL regular-season games during the 2014-15 season, featuring 14 games on NBC and 89 games on NBCSN. All games will be streamed live via NBC Sports Live Extra. Click here for more information on NBC Sports Group’s comprehensive NHL coverage this season.

NBC SPORTS REGIONAL NETWORKS

NBC Sports Regional Networks, which serve top NHL markets such as Boston (Bruins), Philadelphia (Flyers), Washington D.C. (Capitals), Chicago (Blackhawks) and the Bay Area (Sharks), will air more than 300 live NHL games and surround the 2014-15 NHL season with in-depth news, analysis and original programming on the teams that matter most.

NBC SPORTS LIVE EXTRA

NBC Sports Live Extra – NBC Sports Group’s live streaming product for desktops, mobile devices, and tablets – will stream this week’s NHL coverage NBC Sports Live Extra via “TV Everywhere,” giving consumers additional value to for their subscription service, and making high quality content available to MVPD customers both in and out of the home and on multiple platforms. The NBC Sports Live Extra app is available at the App Store for iPad and iPod touch, and on select tablet devices within Google Play.

-NBC SPORTS GROUP-

Filed Under: NBC, NHL

SportsCenter To Visit All 30 MLB Clubs During Spring Training Tour

February 25, 2015 By admin

espn-sc

  • SportsCenter Anchors Join Baseball Tonight Commentators On Site: Jay Crawford, Bram Weinstein, Sarah Walsh, Britt McHenry, Curt Schilling, John Kruk, Aaron Boone, Mark Mulder, Karl Ravech, Buster Olney, Tim Kurkjian, Pedro Gomez and More
  • Full Slate of Spring Training Games Highlighted By Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, Braves, Tigers, Angels, Phillies
  • Sunday Night Baseball’s Dan Shulman, Schilling, Kruk, Olney to Call Spring Training Game

ESPN will swing into spring with comprehensive coverage of 2015 Major League Baseball Spring Training from Florida’s Grapefruit League and Arizona’s Cactus League, starting the week of Feb. 23. Coverage will include the SportsCenter Spring Training Tour, which will visit all 30 MLB Clubs. SportsCenter and Baseball Tonight commentators will provide insights and analysis on each MLB Club, plus interviews with key stars and managers.

Additionally, ESPN reporters Pedro Gomez and  Britt McHenry will visit several Spring Training sites each in Florida and Arizona, respectively, for on-site reports. All SportsCenter Spring Training Tour updates will begin each day during the 9 a.m. ET SportsCenter.

SportsCenter Spring Training Tour schedule

Date Team Location Commentators
Mon, Feb. 23 New York Yankees Tampa, Fla. Karl Ravech, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
San Francisco Giants Scottsdale, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Tue, Feb. 24 Baltimore Orioles Sarasota, Fla. Karl Ravech, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
Chicago White Sox Glendale, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Minnesota Twins Fort Myers, Fla. Britt McHenry
Wed, Feb. 25 Boston Red Sox Fort Myers, Fla. Karl Ravech, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
Chicago Cubs Mesa, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Milwaukee Brewers Maryvale, Ariz. Pedro Gomez
Toronto Blue Jays Dunedin, Fla. Britt McHenry
Thu, Feb. 26 New York Mets Port St. Lucie, Fla. Karl Ravech, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Tempe, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Colorado Rockies Scottsdale, Ariz. Pedro Gomez
Houston Astros Kissimmee, Fla. Britt McHenry
Fri, Feb. 27 Florida Marlins Jupiter, Fla. Karl Ravech, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
Seattle Mariners Peoria, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Cincinnati Reds Goodyear, Ariz. Pedro Gomez
Atlanta Braves Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Britt McHenry
Sat, Feb. 28 St. Louis Cardinals Jupiter, Fla. Bram Weinstein, John Kruk, Buster Olney
San Diego Padres Peoria, Ariz. Sarah Walsh, Mark Mulder, Tim Kurkjian
Sun, Mar. 1 Washington Nationals Viera, Fla. Bram Weinstein, John Kruk, Buster Olney
Los Angeles Dodgers Glendale, Ariz. Sarah Walsh, Mark Mulder, Tim Kurkjian
Mon, Mar. 2 Pittsburgh Pirates Bradenton, Fla. Karl Ravech, John Kruk, Buster Olney
Cleveland Indians Goodyear, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Mark Mulder, Tim Kurkjian
Arizona Diamondbacks Scottsdale, Ariz. Pedro Gomez
Tampa Bay Rays Port Charlotte, Fla. Britt McHenry
Tue, Mar. 3 Detroit Tigers Lakeland, Fla. Karl Ravech, John Kruk, Buster Olney
Texas Rangers Surprise, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Mark Mulder, Tim Kurkjian
Oakland Athletics Phoenix, Ariz. Pedro Gomez
Philadelphia Phillies Clearwater, Fla. Britt McHenry
Wed, Mar. 4 New York Yankees Tampa, Fla. Karl Ravech, John Kruk, Buster Olney
Kansas City Royals Surprise, Ariz. Jay Crawford, Mark Mulder, Tim Kurkjian

ESPN’s Spring Training coverage will also include a full slate of games, featuring two prime-time telecasts, beginning with the Philadelphia Phillies visiting the New York Yankees on Thursday, Mar. 19, at 7 p.m. Additionally, appearances by the Boston Red Sox, Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and Detroit Tigers round out the schedule. Sunday Night Baseball’s Dan Shulman, along with analysts Curt Schilling and John Kruk and reporter Buster Olney, will call the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Chicago Cubs game on Thursday, Mar. 26 at 7 p.m.

ESPN Spring Training game schedule

Date Time (ET) Telecast Spring Training Site Commentators
Thu, Mar. 19 7 p.m. Philadelphia Phillies at New York Yankees Steinbrenner Field, Tampa, Fla. Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, Doug Glanville
Tue, Mar. 24 1 p.m. Philadelphia Phillies at Atlanta Braves ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Karl Ravech, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Thu, Mar. 26 7 p.m. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Chicago Cubs Hohokam Park Mesa, Ariz. Dan Shulman, John Kruk, Curt Schilling, Buster Olney
Fri, Mar. 27 1 p.m. Boston Red Sox at Atlanta Braves ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Karl Ravech, Aaron Boone, Tim Kurkjian
Thu, Apr. 2 1 p.m. New York Yankees at Detroit Tigers Joker Marchant Stadium, Lakeland, Fla. Dave O’Brien, Aaron Boone, Mark Mulder

*ESPN Spring Training games are available on computers, smartphones, tablets, Apple TV, Xbox and Roku players via WatchESPN.

 

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Filed Under: ESPN, MLB

NFL Media Programming Notes: February 24 – March 1

February 25, 2015 By admin

NFL_Network_2012_LogoNFL Network Shows and Scheduled Guests

For a full description of each show, please click the show’s link

  • Path to the Draft – returns TONIGHT at 6:00 PM ET
  • NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers Week – Throughout the week on NFL Network
  • NFL Total Access

SHOW HIGHLIGHT: New England Patriots safety Patrick Chung on Friday, February 27

  • A Football Life Marathon – Starting Sunday, March 1 at 8:00 AM ET
  • NFL Now
  • NFL Network’s Day-by-Day Programming
  • NFL.com Content
  • NFL.com Editorial Content
  • NFL.com/CFB247
  • NFL.com Podcast Central
  • NFL Mobile from Verizon
  • NFL Network Live Streaming

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Path to the Draft – TONIGHT at 6:00 PM ET

With the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine in the books, the journey to Chicago and the 2015 NFL Draft continues with the return of NFL Network’s series Path to the Draft.

Starting tonight at 6:00 PM ET and airing Monday–Friday on NFL Network, Path to the Draft provides in-depth analysis of all the top prospects, live coverage from Pro Days around the country, in-studio appearances and live interviews, and more leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft in Chicago.

NFL Network analysts Daniel Jeremiah, Charles Davis, Curtis Conway, Brian Baldinger and Charley Casserly join host Andrew Siciliano to delve into all 32 NFL team needs, break down which players can help each team and discuss where in the draft teams can select the players to help them next season.

Additionally, NFL Network’s draft expert Mike Mayock travels to each of the top Pro Days to provide on-location analysis and interviews.

NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers Week on NFL Network

Throughout the week, NFL Network celebrates the NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers by replaying some of his best games from throughout the season.

Here is the remaining schedule for the week:

Today

  • 8:00 PM ET: Week 10 Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers
  • 8:30 PM ET: Week 11 Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers

Wednesday, February 25

  • 8:00 PM ET: Week 13 New England Patriots vs. Green Bay Packers

Thursday, February 26

  • 8:00 PM ET: Week 17 Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers

Friday, February 27

  • 8:00 PM ET: Divisional Round Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers

Saturday, February 28

  • 1:00 PM ET: Week 10 Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers
  • 1:30 PM ET: Week 11 Philadelphia Eagles vs. Green Bay Packers
  • 2:00 PM ET: Week 13 New England Patriots vs. Green Bay Packers
  • 3:00 PM ET: Week 17 Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
  • 4:00 PM ET: Divisional Round Dallas Cowboys vs. Green Bay Packers

NFL Total Access – Monday–Friday at 7:00 PM ET

NFL Total Access airs at 7:00 PM ET Monday – Friday on NFL Network.

Tuesday, February 24

  • Hosts: Dan Hellie & Amber Theoharis
  • Analysts: LaDainian Tomlinson, Heath Evans

Wednesday, February 25

  • Hosts: Amber Theoharis
  • Analysts: LaDainian Tomlinson, Heath Evans

Thursday, February 26 

  • Hosts: Dan Hellie & Lindsay Rhodes
  • Analysts: Willie McGinest, Heath Evans

Friday, February 27

  • Hosts: Dan Hellie & Lindsay Rhodes
  • Analysts: Willie McGinest, Heath Evans
  • Guest: New England Patriots safety Patrick Chung

A Football Life Marathon – Starting Sunday, March 1 at 8:00 AM ET

Starting Sunday, March 1 at 8:00 AM ET NFL Network airs back-to-back episodes of A Football Life all day on NFL Network. The following episodes will be shown:

  • Earl Campbell: A Football Life
  • Brandon Marshall: A Football Life
  • Warren Moon: A Football Life
  • Eric Dickerson: A Football Life
  • The Perfect Backfield: A Football Life
  • Terrell Davis: A Football Life
  • Sean Taylor: A Football Life
  • Ricky Williams: A Football Life
  • Joe Greene: A Football Life
  • Doug Flutie: A Football Life
  • McCardell & Smith: A Football Life
  • Butkus & Sayers: A Football Life
  • Roger Staubach: A Football Life
  • Lyle Alzado: A Football Life
  • The 2006 Rose Bowl: A Football Life
  • Joe Namath Pt. I: A Football Life
  • Joe Namath Pt. II: A Football Life
  • Bill Walsh: A Football Life

NFL Now

NFL Now is the League’s next-generation video service, providing fans access to the largest digital library of NFL video anywhere, accessible through apps and browsers across an array of Internet-connected devices. Offered for free with a premium tier, NFL Now allows fans to customize their own video stream of short-form videos and highlights from NFL Media and all 32 NFL clubs.

The NFL…Personalized: Fans can select their favorite NFL teams and players and upload their NFL.com Fantasy roster, and NFL Now dynamically personalizes each fan’s viewing experience. The customization grows over time, as the content engine learns each fan’s preferences and fine tunes the video stream, to the point where no two registered fans will have the same experience on NFL Now.

Provided below is a weekly schedule of NFL Now content:

  • Live streaming events and select news conferences
  • Michael Fabiano personalized fantasy analysis
  • Daily, personalized NFL analysis from Brian Billick, Charles Davis, Daniel Jeremiah, Brian Baldinger, Bucky Brooks and others
  • Instant in-game highlights for every game as wells as a personalized highlight Game Center for NFL.com fantasy leagues
  • In-depth analysis for all 32 teams every day
  • 1,200 new NFL Club-produced segments available per week
  • Over 1,000 NFL Films titles available on NFL Now Plus

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NFL Editorial Content – Daily on NFL.com

  • Michael Silver

o    To read his columns: http://on.nfl.com/1lwmZ3q

  • Judy Battista

o   To read her other columns: http://on.nfl.com/17S17El

  • Elliot Harrison’s Weekly Power Rankings

o   Every Tuesday, Elliott Harrison ranks NFL teams from No. 1 through No. 32 in his weekly power rankings. His power rankings will be a staple on NFL Network and NFL Digital Media’s programming throughout the week.

o   To view the weekly power rankings: http://on.nfl.com/17CaPue

  • NFL.com’s Around the NFL Blog

o    Get the latest news & information from around the league with NFL.com’s Around the NFL blog

o    Follow on Twitter: @AroundTheNFL

Catch all of NFL Media’s writers work here:  http://www.nfl.com/news

NFL.com’s College Football 24/7

Get all of the latest news and analysis leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft with NFL Media’s College Football 24/7 online, on Twitter and on the podcast.

NFL.com/CFB247 provides the latest Mock Drafts, analysis and news from NFL Media’s stable of analysts, including Mike Mayock, Charles Davis, Daniel Jeremiah, Bucky Brooks and Lance Zierlein.

Additionally, @NFL_CFB on Twitter provides the latest insight leading up to the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine and Draft.

Download the College Football 24/7 Podcast on NFL.com and iTunes for more news and analysis.

NFL.com Presents Six Weekly Podcasts

  • Dave Dameshek Football Program
  • Around the NFL
  • The Coaches Show   
  • College Football 24/7
  • NFL Fantasy Live
  • Move The Sticks

To listen to all six of NFL.com’s podcasts, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/podcast

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NFL Network Programming Schedule

Day-by-Day Programming Schedule:

To view the entire NFL Network programming schedule, please visit: http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/networkschedule

NFL Mobile from Verizon

With NFL Mobile from Verizon watch every post season game including the 2015 Pro Bowl & Super Bowl XLIX live right on your smartphone, included with the MORE Everything Plan or an NFL Mobile premium subscription at $5/month. Learn more at NFL.com/mobile or download NFL Mobile from VZW at the Windows, iOS, Android, and Blackberry app stores.

NFL Network Live Streaming

Watch NFL Network anytime, anywhere at NFL.com/Watch.  Live streaming is accessible on PCs, tablets and Xbox for authenticated NFL Network subscribers via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Cox, DirecTV, Dish, Optimum, Verizon FiOS and many more distributors.  In addition, Verizon Wireless customers can access live streaming on smartphones via NFL Mobile.  Learn more by going to www.NFL.com/watch

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Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

‘Path to the Draft’ Returns Tonight at 6:00 PM ET on NFL Network

February 24, 2015 By admin

Airs Monday-Friday at 6:00 PM ET Leading Up to the 2015 NFL Draft

Daniel Jeremiah, Charles Davis, Curtis Conway, Brian Baldinger & Charley Casserly Join Host Andrew Siciliano

Mike Mayock Provides Insight & Analysis From the Top Pro Days

One-Hour Show Breaks Down the Top Prospects & Delves Into Team Needs for All 32 NFL Teams

With the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine in the books, the journey to Chicago and the 2015 NFL Draft continues with the return of NFL Network’s series Path to the Draft.

Starting tonight at 6:00 PM ET and airing Monday-Friday on NFL Network, Path to the Draft provides in-depth analysis of all the top prospects, live coverage from Pro Days around the country, in-studio appearances and live interviews, and more leading up to the 2015 NFL Draft in Chicago.

NFL Network analysts Daniel Jeremiah, Charles Davis, Curtis Conway, Brian Baldinger and Charley Casserly join host Andrew Siciliano to delve into all 32 NFL team needs, break down which players can help each team and discuss where in the draft teams can select the players to help them next season.

Additionally, NFL Network’s draft expert Mike Mayock travels to each of the top Pro Days to provide on-location analysis and interviews.

ABOUT NFL NETWORK

Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, fans turn to NFL Network to receive information and insight straight from the field, team headquarters, league offices and everywhere the NFL is making news. Launched in 2003, NFL Network gives fans unprecedented year-round inside access to all NFL events, including the Super Bowl, Playoffs, regular season, preseason, Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame induction weekend, NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine, Senior Bowl, league meetings, minicamps and training camps.

Currently in more than 72 million homes, NFL Network has carriage agreements with each of the country’s largest television providers including Comcast, DirecTV, DISH Network, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-Verse.

For fans on the go, all NFL Network programming can also be streamed live on the NFL Mobile from Verizon app (NFL.com/mobile), the NFL app delivered on XBOX from Microsoft, and through Watch NFL Network (NFL.com/watch), with participating cable and satellite providers. For more information, log on to NFL.com/nflnetwork.  NFL.com is the exclusive internet home of NFL Network.

 

– NFL MEDIA –


Source: NFL Network

Filed Under: NFLN Tagged With: DirecTV

NFL Media Offers Expansive Coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine

February 18, 2015 By admin

nfl-mediaLive Coverage of Combine Drills Begins Friday, February 20 at 9:00 AM ET

Coverage of Combine Press Conferences Live at 2:00 PM ET on Wednesday & Thursday February 18-19

‘NFL Scouting Combine LIVE’ Streams on NFL.com, NFL Now & NFL Mobile Friday, February 20 – Monday, February 23 at 9:00 AM ET

‘NFL AM’ & ‘NFL Total Access’ Live From Indianapolis

For the 11th year, NFL Media provides exclusive multi-platform coverage of the league’s next generation of talent with more than 45 hours of live coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine Presented by Under Armour. Beginning Wednesday, February  18, NFL Network, NFL.com, NFL Now and NFL Mobile broadcast live from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, providing an up-close look at Heisman Trophy Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota, Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston and the rest of the more than 330 NFL prospects looking to take the next step in their careers.

NFL Media features a 26-man roster of talent to cover the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine, including NFL Draft experts Mike Mayock, Charles Davis and Daniel Jeremiah. Additionally, former NFL head coaches Steve Mariucci and Brian Billick, and former NFL scout Bucky Brooks each lend their insight into the Combine process gained from several years of experience in the field.

This year for the first time, live coverage of on-field workouts will begin on Friday, February 20 with the offensive linemen and tight ends rather than Saturday as in years past. Live coverage continues with the running backs, quarterbacks and wide receivers on Saturday, February 21, linebackers and defensive linemen on Sunday, February 22 and defensive backs on Monday, February 23. Coverage of workouts begins each day at 9:00 AM ET.

Rich Eisen anchors NFL Network’s coverage of the on-field workouts, joined by Mayock and NFL Network’s team of analysts. Expert commentary includes Shaun O’Hara on offensive linemen (Friday), Kurt Warner on quarterbacks (Saturday), Michael Irvin on wide receivers (Saturday), Marshall Faulk on running backs (Saturday), Willie McGinest on linebackers (Sunday), and Deion Sanders on defensive backs (Monday). Tennessee Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan joins NFL Network’s coverage of the offensive linemen drills Friday, February 20 and Washington Redskins cornerback DeAngelo Hall joins on Monday, February 23 for coverage of the defensive back drills. Additionally, running back Chris Johnson joins NFL Network’s coverage on Saturday, February 21 via Skype before prospects aim to break his 40-yard dash record.

Throughout the week, Davis, Jeremiah, Mariucci, Billick and host Chris Rose provide further analysis, while NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network reporter Kimberly Jones are on the scene in Indianapolis with the latest news reports from around the league. Additionally, Rhett Lewis and LaVar Arrington provide live reports from Indianapolis for NFL AM on beginning Wednesday at 6:00 AM ET, and Dan Hellie and Brian Baldinger check in from Indianapolis for NFL Total Access Friday, February 20 – Sunday, February 22 at 7:00 PM ET.

Coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine begins Wednesday, February 18 and Thursday, February 19 at 2:00 PM ET with NFL Total Access Scouting Combine Press Conferences from Lucas Oil Stadium.

NFL Network’s live coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine can also be accessed on mobile phones and tablets exclusively through NFL Mobile From Verizon, as well as other digital platforms such as Watch NFL Network (tablet + PC), NFL on Xbox (Xbox One & Windows 8 devices) and NFL.com/Watch.

For the 11th year, the Combine will conclude with Rich Eisen’s annual 40-yard dash in his trademark suit and Under Armour shoes. This year, he will be looking to best his Personal Record of 5.98 seconds, which he clocked at last year’s Combine. Also, this year’s ‘Run Rich Run’ will benefit the NFL PLAY 60 relationship with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Fans can participate and show their support while flexing their own creativity by submitting videos of themselves running the 40-yard dash. Along with their submissions, fans will be encouraged to donate money to help support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, ensuring families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing or food, and can focus on what matters most – helping their child live.

To submit videos of themselves running the 40 and to support NFL PLAY’s collaboration 60 along with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, fans can visit: NFL.com/RunRichRun. Fans can also submit ‘Run Rich Run’ videos via Twitter using the following hashtags: #RunRichRun #StJude.

NFL Network’s coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine features the following technological enhancements:

  • NFLN-Focus Camera Technology: A high-speed camera that allows moving targets to stay in the camera frame longer, highlighting the smallest details. It will have a tremendous presence in coverage of the 40-yard dash, both at the start and finish line, and will also be used in other events including the vertical and broad jumps, three-cone and position drills
  • Simulcam Camera Technology: For the seventh year at the NFL Scouting Combine, the Simulcam provides an unparalleled, in-depth comparison and analysis of the position, style, speed and trajectory of competitors through the use of background recognition and camera-matching technology. Simulcam will be a key contributor to NFL Network’s 40-yard dash coverage
  • Cablecam Technology: The Cablecam returns to offer a unique overhead view which gives viewers a new way of following each drill and a more intimate feeling that they are present in Indianapolis
  • New Comparative Analytics Technology: For the first in NFL history, viewers will be able to see how draft prospects measure up against established NFL players. With the help of Reality Check Systems (RCS), NFL Media’s coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine will feature cutting-edge graphics, transforming player attributes and performance data into comparative analytics graphics that illustrate which NFL players most closely resemble draft players – from physical characteristics to performance. Through a unique algorithm, NFL Media’s coverage of the Combine will generate the NFL player with the statistics that best match the prospect and then display the results as graphics

Located on NFL Media’s digital properties, fans can follow all of the action of NFL Scouting Combine LIVE on any of their connected devices. Each day, fans can get wall-to-wall coverage of NFL Scouting Combine LIVE on NFL.com, NFL Now and NFL Mobile. NFL Scouting Combine LIVE features a single broadcast spread across three different desks. Matt “Money” Smith and Bucky Brooks provide coverage off all the drills and workouts, along with Akbar Gbajabiamila providing interviews with the players and more on-site analysis. Marc Istook, Solomon Wilcots and Lance Zierlein provide context of the top prospects with player comparisons, mock drafts and team needs. Molly Qerim rounds out the Combine with an eye on social media, providing the pulse of the Combine from participant tweets, current player reactions and fan commentary. NFL Scouting Combine LIVE streams Friday, February 20 – Monday, February 20 starting each day at 9:00 AM ET.

 

NFL.com and NFL Mobile’s coverage of the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine includes the following features:

  • Social Integration: NFL.com will utilize real-time social monitoring, analysis and trending tools, offering fans the opportunity to be part of a social community by answering poll questions, following social media conversations and submit questions to NFL Media analysts
  • Updated VOD packages of top prospects: For the first time, NFL.com’s Combine coverage features updated video-on-demand packages of the top prospects. From bench presses, to 40-yard dashes, to positional drills, NFL.com will allow fans to instantly access updated workout summaries of the prospects they may have missed

NFL Now will also offer free live streams of every NFL head coach and general manager press conference from the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine starting Wednesday, February 18, as well as select prospect press conferences.

MOBILE APPLICATIONS: For fans on the go, NFL Digital Media has multiple mobile applications available, allowing fans to get all the latest 2015 NFL Scouting Combine coverage on their smartphone.

  • Live Streaming on NFL Mobile from Verizon:NFL Mobile from Verizon features the latest news, Combine participant profiles, results trackers and video on-demand. Verizon customers can access live, streaming video of NFL Network’s 2015 NFL Scouting Combine coverage on their smartphone. Verizon customers on the MORE Everything plan have access the NFL Network live stream at no extra charge. All other Verizon users can access live streaming video by upgrading to Premium for $5/month. For more information, visit vzw.com/nfl. Data usage applies for app download and use
  • NFL Mobile: Featuring live stats, news articles, tweets, photos and video highlights, NFL Mobile provides fans extensive coverage leading up to and during the 2015 NFL Scouting Combine. Available on iOS, Android, Windows 8 and Blackberry devices
  • Watch NFL Network: Live streaming of NFL Network’s coverage of the 2015 Scouting Combine is available on Watch NFL Network on tablets, PCs and the NFL on Xbox application. Go to NFL.com/Watch for more information

 

NFL Network & NFL.com 2015 NFL Scouting Combine Talent

LaVar Arrington (@LaVarArrington)               Analyst

Brian Baldinger                                               Analyst

Brian Billick (@CoachBillick)                          Analyst

Bucky Brooks (@BuckyBrooks)                    Analyst

Charles Davis (@CFD22)                              Analyst

Rich Eisen (@RichEisen)                               Host

Marshall Faulk            (@MarshallFaulk)                  Analyst

Akbar Gbajabiamila (@Akbar_Gbaja)           Analyst

Dan Hellie (@DanHellie)                                Host

Michael Irvin (@MichaelIrvin88)                    Analyst

Marc Istook (@MarcIstookNFL)                    Host

Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks)             Analyst

Kimberly Jones (@KimJonesSports)             Reporter

Rhett Lewis (@RhettNFL)                              Host

Steve Mariucci (@SteveMariucci)                 Analyst

Mike Mayock                                                  Analyst

Willie McGinest (@WillieMcGinest)               Analyst

Shaun O’Hara (@ShaunOHara60)                Analyst

Molly Qerim (@MollyQerim)                          Host

Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet)                            NFL Media Insider

Chris Rose (@ChrisRose)                              Host

Deion Sanders (@DeionSanders)                  Analyst

Matt “Money” Smith (@MattMoneySmith)    Host

Kurt Warner (@Kurt13Warner)                      Analyst

Solomon Wilcots (@SolomonsWisdom_)      Analyst

Lance Zierlein (@LanceZierlein)                    Analyst

Following is the NFL Network and NFL.com day-by-day Combine coverage schedule (all times listed in ET):

Wednesday, February 18

6:00 AM – NFL AM – LIVE

10:00 AM – NFL AM – Re-Air

12 Noon – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Steals

1:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Classes

2:00 PM – NFL Total Access Scouting Combine Press Conferences – LIVE COVERAGE

4:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Classes

5:00 PM – A Football Life: Randall Cunningham

6:00 PM – A Football Life: Houston ‘93

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

8:00 PM – 2014 Super Bowl Champion Player Stunt

9:00 PM – Finding Giants: Episode #1

9:30 PM – Finding Giants: Episode #2

10:00 PM – Finding Giants: Episode #3

10:30 PM – Finding Giants: Episode #4

11:00 PM – NFL Total Access

12 Midnight – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Classes

1:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Day Moments

Thursday, February 19

6:00 AM – NFL AM – LIVE

10:00 AM – NFL AM – Re-Air

12 Noon – NFL’s Top 10: Undrafted Players

1:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Busts

2:00 PM – NFL Total Access Scouting Combine Press Conferences – LIVE COVERAGE

4:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Heisman Winners in the NFL

5:00 PM – A Football Life: Bill Belichick – Part 1

6:00 PM – A Football Life: Bill Belichick – Part 2

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

8:00 PM – 2014 Super Bowl Champion Player Stunt

9:00 PM – Brady 6

10:00 PM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Steals

11:00 PM – NFL Total Access

12 Midnight – Brady 6

1:00 AM – NFL’s Top 10: Draft Steals

 

Friday, February 20

6:00 AM – NFL AM – LIVE

9:00 AM – 2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Kickers, Offensive Linemen & Tight Ends – LIVE COVERAGE

  • Encores with cut down versions at 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM & 12 Midnight ET

7:00 AM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

  • Encores at 11:00 PM ET

ALL DAY – NFL.com:  Exclusive daily video clips available

Saturday, February 21

9:00 AM – 2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Running Backs, Quarterbacks & Wide Receivers – LIVE COVERAGE

  • Encores with cut down versions at 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM & 12 Midnight ET

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

  • Encores at 11:00 PM ET

ALL DAY – NFL.com:  Exclusive daily video clips available

Sunday, February 22

9:00 AM – 2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive Linemen & Linebackers – LIVE COVERAGE

  • Encores with cut down versions at 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM & 12 Midnight ET

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

  • Encores at 11:00 PM ET

ALL DAY – NFL.com:  Exclusive daily video clips available

Monday, February 23

6:00 AM – NFL AM – LIVE

9:00 AM – 2015 NFL Scouting Combine: Defensive Backs – LIVE COVERAGE

  • Encores with cut down versions at 2:00 PM, 8:00 PM & 12 Midnight ET

7:00 PM – NFL Total Access – LIVE

  • Encores at 11:00 PM ET

ALL DAY – NFL.com:  Exclusive daily video clips available

ABOUT NFL NETWORK

Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, fans turn to NFL Network to receive information and insight straight from the field, team headquarters, league offices and everywhere the NFL is making news. Launched in 2003, NFL Network gives fans unprecedented year-round inside access to all NFL events, including the Super Bowl, Playoffs, regular season, preseason, Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame induction weekend, NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine, Senior Bowl, league meetings, minicamps and training camps.

Currently in more than 72 million homes, NFL Network has carriage agreements with each of the country’s largest television providers including Comcast, DirecTV, DISH Network, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-Verse.

For fans on the go, all NFL Network programming can also be streamed live on the NFL Mobile from Verizon app (NFL.com/mobile), the NFL app delivered on XBOX from Microsoft, and through Watch NFL Network (NFL.com/watch), with participating cable and satellite providers. For more information, log on to NFL.com/nflnetwork.  NFL.com is the exclusive internet home of NFL Network.

– NFL MEDIA –

Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

ESPN Names New Site on Sports, Race and Culture: The Undefeated

February 13, 2015 By admin

whitlock

Key Profiles on Charles Barkley and John Wall Preview New Site Ahead of 2015 NBA All-Star Weekend in New York

TheUndefeated.com will be the name of ESPN’s new site focused on sports, race and culture. Set to launch later this year, the site will provide in-depth commentary, long-form storytelling and insight on race and urban culture through the prism of sports. National sports columnist Jason Whitlock will headline TheUndefeated.com and serve as editor-in-chief.

The name, The Undefeated, is inspired by a passage from American poet, author and civil rights leader Maya Angelou: “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.”

“Maya’s quote perfectly captures the African-American journey and the spirit athletes and all Americans try to embrace,” said Whitlock. “It’s wonderful to see our collective vision coming together.”

Under Whitlock’s leadership, TheUndefeated.com’s senior editorial team consists of award-winning sports editor Leon Carter, who was named vice president and editorial director last month, and former Ebony magazine editor-in-chief Amy DuBois Barnett, who joined in August 2014 as executive editor.

The site is part of ESPN’s Exit 31, the umbrella content unit responsible for ESPN Films, Grantland and FiveThirtyEight, and is being overseen by Marie Donoghue, ESPN Executive Vice President for Global Strategy and Original Content.

TheUndefeated.com editorial team (to-date):

  • Jerry Bembry (senior writer) – former NBA reporter for The Baltimore Sun and ESPN The Magazine NBA editor.
  • Danielle Cadet (senior editor) – former editor at “The Huffington Post Back Voices” who led the outlet’s coverage of the Trayvon Martin murder trial and the fatal shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo.
  • Ryan Cortes (writer) – contributor to several media outlets including “Broward New Times” in South Florida, Lifestyle Magazine group, Life Publications and others.
  • Brando Simeo Starkey (associate editor) – legal scholar and writer who’s been published by a number of respected law journals, and author of books on racial equality.
  • Justin Tinsley (writer) – former urban culture and music writer whose work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Ebony.com, among other outlets.
  • Jesse Washington (senior writer) – former Associated Press race and culture writer, editor in chief of Blaze magazine, and managing editor of Vibe magazine.
  • Mike Wise (columnist and feature writer) – former national sports columnist and feature writer for The Washington Post.

TheUndefeated.com Profiles Charles Barkley:

Today, ESPN.com published an in-depth profile of NBA Hall of Famer and Turner Sports analyst Charles Barkley. Commissioned by the TheUndefeated.com, senior writer Jesse Washington, with additional reporting by Justin Tinsley, wrote an expansive, 9,000-word piece titled, “Up from Leeds: The People, the Place and the Privilege that Made Charles Barkley a Role Model.” The feature is a foretaste of the opinion-forming storytelling that will be a calling card for the new site. Highlights:

  • Who is Charles Barkley?
  • How did this Hall of Fame basketball player, with a personality more Allen Iverson than Bill Russell, emerge as a respected commentator on important social issues?
  • Is Barkley the modern day Muhammad Ali, a voice for the ages on race. Or Jack Johnson, a provocateur with no real agenda?

Additionally, the story explores whether the self-responsibility doctrine espoused by Barkley is the by-product of the values he acquired growing up in Leeds, Ala., or the privilege he has earned with “his ability to dazzle on and off the court.”

Mike Wise Examines the Ascension of Washington Wizards Star Guard John Wall:

In a separate long-form story published this week on ESPN.com, Mike Wise examines the maturation of Washington Wizards’ John Wall and the path the NBA All-Star guard took from an insolent youngster growing up in the Raleigh, N.C. area, to becoming a beloved leader for a resurgent team in a city passionately steeped, by equal measure, in sports and politics. Read “Little John Wall’s unvarnished climb.”

– 30 –

Filed Under: ESPN

Inside Sports Illustrated 2.4.15

February 6, 2015 By admin

1THIS WEEK’S SPORTS ILLUSTRATED

Tom Brady Does it Again – This Time In Comeback Fashion

NEW YORK, NY (February 4, 2015) ­– This week’s Sports Illustrated features Super Bowl Champions: The New England Patriots and QB Tom Brady with a recap by Greg Bishop. With the big game in the rearview, SI offers a look at the needs and wants of all 32 teams, plus a list of the 40 best free agents available in an NFL Off-Season Preview. Pete Thamel analyzes how Western Michigan’s coach P.J. Fleck excels in the cutthroat game of recruiting. Watch out, Billy Goat: Joe Maddon is ready to change things up. Tom Verducci profiles the new face of the Chicago Cubs.

Also in this issue, NASCAR’s Kyle Larson just might provide the fresh air that the all-American sport needs, while Alan Shipnuck dives into the brash and controversial life of professional golfer Patrick Reed. Luke Winn analyzes John Calipari’s efficient and top-ranked defense at Kentucky and Ben Reiter examines New York Rangers’ Rick Nash and his rediscovered puck luck. Shipnuck also introduces us to Toronto Raptors’ GM Masai Uriri who leads with perseverance, integrity and generosity thanks to the influence of his hero, Nelson Mandela, and SI presents Athletes to Watch in 2015, from tennis and soccer to swimming and track, they’re poised to grab our attention.

Greg Bishop: ELATED

The lead-up to the Patriots-Seahawks defied logic (and maybe science). The game itself reversed the laws of probability (and maybe play-calling). But after an instant-classic win, this can’t be questioned: the place Tom Brady and the Pats hold in history. A game full of suspense, fantastic performances and questionable calls stands as perhaps the biggest feather yet in New England’s cap.

Pete Thamel: No Grind, No Glory

A day in the life of Western Michigan’s P.J. Fleck shows what is takes to excel at the game of recruiting – mounds of caffeine, deep connections and an unmatched enthusiasm for the sport. The youngest coach in the FBS has changed WMU from an afterthought school to one that is hot on the recruiting trail and a force on the field. Orchestrating the biggest turnaround in school history, Fleck knows that to capture a recruit he needs enthusiasm, sincerity and a routine that is anything but monotonous. Although it seems to be working so far, Fleck understands that every day is a new one and new tricks are required.

Tom Verducci: This Is the…

…Year?! Savior?! Last we’ll ever hear of Billy Goats?! Whatever it is, it’s exciting. Welcome to Joe Maddon’s Chicago. Optimism as big as Maddon’s is rare for a team that has been so bad for so long, but Maddon – along with Vegas oddsmakers – has the Cubs going far this year. There are many questions swirling around them and as the season approaches, some fans believe this could be the year they win it all. Armed with a solid core of returning players and a slew of free-agent signings, the time of wishful thinking is past. To Maddon, this is the season of winning.

“After he was hired, I went to dinner with him at his restaurant in Tampa. I was blown away. He flat-out told me, ‘The reason I’m coming here is to win the World Series. There’s no sense aiming for anything lower.’”- Anthony Rizzo, Cubs first baseman

“Maddon is so engaging, you find yourself sitting up a little more, leaning forward in your chair a little more, your mind is going a little faster and you want to make him laugh. You want to rise to his level of energy, intellect and accomplishment. I think he has that effect on players. They want to match his energy and offer him ideas.”- Marie Epstein, wife of Theo Epstein, president

Andrew Lawrence: Fresh Face in the Race

Poised to challenge racing’s reigning old guard, 22-year-old Kyle Larson is already attracting new fans to NASCAR – at a time when the sport badly needs a boost. With four DNF’s in the past, Larson has come a long way from where he was. Despite winning Rookie of the Year Honors, he knows there is a ways to go. NASCAR is in the midst of a changing of the guard and as it stands, Larson is set to lead the new crop of youngsters as they look to shake up the Sprint Cup ranks in the years to come.

Alan Shipnuck: Dream Team

Brash? Absolutely. Controversial? No doubt. Patrick Reed has been deemed the bad guy and has certainly paid for it. Putting aside past relationships, college controversies and a near-death experience involving his wife Justine, the 24-year-old golfer now looks to pair his maturation and internal drive to continue a winning resume that includes four Tour events – a feat accomplished by only an elite few. With the help of the fearless Justine, Reed battled for his Tour card the hard way and has already shown he has the game to back up his ambition.

“I don’t want to be the bad guy; I just want people to realize how passionate and how determined I am and how much love I have for the game of golf.” – Reed

“When he came out he was a little mean, he was a little too confident. He’s still confident, but now he does it in a nice way. I could learn a lot from him as a player and as a person.” – Bubba Watson

Luke Winn: The Deep Blue D

Kentucky is littered with NBA first-round talent, but the Wildcats aren’t focused on offense. Rather, coach John Calipari and the Cats have put together the best defensive team in the nation – possibly in history – en route to holding an undefeated record and a no.1 seed. As the Big Dance approaches Kentucky has mastered defensive schemes and formed a substitution method that sacrifices nothing while costing opponents everything. Their defense is oppressive, their energy is never ending, and as the season continues, we just might see history being made.

“[They are] the best defensive team I’ve seen in the last 20 years, in terms of the way they get over screens, and the physicality of the way they play, the way they block shots.”- Rick Pitino, Louisville head coach

“The only film we watch is 10 clips during the pregame meal. It’s all about effort and energy. It’s about you versus him, like, I’m not going to let him make his name off me.”- Calipari

Ben Reiter: Goals in Bulk

Rick Nash had the Rangers playing for their first Stanley Cup in 20 years, but lost his puck touch when it mattered most. Now the proven scorer, who combines small-man skills with a big-man frame, is working to put the Rangers back in the Cup discussion. Nash went scoreless in three of New York’s four playoff series and scored only three times in 25 postseason games last season. He was booed by New York fans as it seemed he may have lost his ability to score. This year, thanks to improved fitness and health he is on pace for his first 50-goal season and possibly an MVP award.

“He knew how to play in tight spots. Now, he’s 6’4” [but] playing a little man’s game, stickhandling in small areas. We watched him develop from not a very big kid into a monster.” – Mark Hunter, GM of the London Knights, Canadian Hockey League

“It’s unbelievably unique in the NHL, that combo. He is a power forward, but he’s a different type of power forward– a power forward with great skill. Usually [power forwards] will bull through you. He doesn’t. – Doug MacLean, Blue Jackets GM

Alan Shipnuck: ‘He Lifts Us All’

Like his hero, Nelson Mandela, Raptors GM Masai Ujiri leads by example, with perseverance, integrity and generosity. His approach has resulted in a team that has captured the Toronto fan base, as well as a brighter future for his fellow Africans. The Raptors have become the most beloved team in the staunchest of hockey towns and it’s not by accident; Ujiri commands respect and treats everyone in the organization with honesty. His players sing his praises as he has built chemistry like no other, while holding each player accountable for success. So far it’s working, as Ujiri’s team is playing before sellout crowds and is possibly a title contender.

“You can’t buy this kind of goodwill in the community. Masai is the perfect ambassador for what we’re trying to accomplish here. In many ways he’s become the face of the franchise.”- Ujiri’s boss, Tim Leiweke, CEO of Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment

“You don’t hear thank you a lot in this business, so I always remembered that. We had exchanged emails, but I assumed I would never hear from him. I was wrong. That’s one of Masai’s strengths: He reaches out.”- NBA Trainer David Thorpe

Filed Under: Sports Illustrated

NBA Digital’s Comprehensive NBA All-Star Coverage to Include Exclusive One-on-One Interview with Kobe Bryant Exclusive One-on-One Interview with Kobe Bryant

February 5, 2015 By admin

NBA-TV-LogoBryant Says, “I Should Have Seven,” Championships During Interview Conducted by Ahmad Rashad

Interview Part of NBA TV’s All-Star Monday Primetime Lineup, Feb. 16;

More Than 140 Hours of NBA All-Star Content Across NBA TV, NBA.com and NBA Mobile

The City Game, Hosted by Kenny Smith, to Highlight New York City’s Most Memorable Players and

Rich Basketball Tradition on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 6 p.m.

NBA Digital, co-managed by Turner Sports and the NBA, will be home to the most expansive coverage of the NBA All-Star 2015 events in New York City with content spanning across a wide array of multimedia platforms.  NBA TV, NBA.com and NBA Mobile will combine to deliver an immersive experience, reaching fans any way they choose to enjoy All-Star content.

Comprehensive coverage of NBA All-Star 2015 – available across multiple devices via NBA TV, NBA.com and NBA Mobile – will feature inside access to practices, interviews with players and coaches, and highlights, news and information from all of the weekend’s signature events.

“NBA All-Star is one of the league’s tent pole events and our goal is to utilize every platform in our portfolio to provide the most compelling experiences for our fans,” said Albert “Scooter” Vertino, general manager of NBA Digital and SVP of programming, Turner Sports. “With extensive coverage of all the events, a deep commentator lineup, full slate of original programming and the breadth of our digital and social content, we’re looking forward to capturing all the festivities from New York.”

NBA Digital’s more than 140 hours of All-Star programming will be highlighted by NBA TV’s exclusive one-on-one interview with Kobe Bryant, a 17-time NBA All-Star, on Monday, Feb. 16, at 9 p.m.  Kobe: The Interview, conducted by Ahmad Rashad, covers a wide variety of topics including his thoughts on how he should have won a total of seven NBA championships – with a pair of missed opportunities against the Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons – and how he’s transformed his game through the years, his motivation, and reflections on his former teammates and coaches.

Bryant on the goals he set when he started his career: “It was really simple for me, at the time, which is win as many championships as possible. That was it. You know, I watched Michael win six. I watched Magic win five. You know [Bill] Russell…growing up, I understood that to be the standard.”

Bryant on players he’s admired that he’s lined up against: “That is a really long list…I played against the golden greats…Michael [Jordan], [John] Stockton, [Gary] Payton, [Clyde] Drexler…All the way up to this generation of players – LeBron [James], D-Wade [Dwyane Wade] and KD [Kevin Durant] – to now the younger generation…[Stephen] Curry, James Harden, all these players…Klay Thompson, I admire all of them because they all bring soething different to the game and they all have their strengths that you can learn from.”

Bryant on whether he’s at the end: “I can’t say it is the end. I thought the Spurs were done 20 years ago. Those guys are still winning. So, to answer the question, I can’t say this is the end of my era because I thought their [era] was done and they’re still there. So I’m hoping I can have the same rebirth.”

The network’s NBA All-Star Monday primetime lineup on Feb. 16 will also feature Countdown to Kobe: The Interview at 8:30 p.m., hosted by Vince Cellini, a 30-minute show looking back at Bryant’s standout career and legacy, featuring interviews from current and former Lakers teammates, along with guests. Bryant’s former teammate and current NBA TV analyst Rick Fox will also join the show live from New York. The night will conclude with a special New York themed edition of NBA TV’s critically acclaimed Open Court at 10 p.m., with a cast of basketball greats talking about the influence of basketball in the city.

The Open Court panel discussion, hosted by Sports Emmy Award winner Ernie Johnson, will feature a collection of TNT and NBA TV analysts including Kenny Smith, Shaquille O’Neal, Grant Hill and Steve Smith, along with former New York Knicks guard John Starks as a guest on the show.

NBA TV original programming will also include All-Star episodes of NBA Inside Stuff presented by Samsung GALAXY, The Starters, NBA GameTime, The Beat presented by The All-New Chrysler 200 and a 30-minute look at basketball and New York City, The City Game, hosted by Kenny Smith.

NBA TV and NBA.com live streaming daily content highlights for NBA All-Star 2015:

Wednesday, February 12

  • NBA TV’s The City Game, hosted by Kenny Smith, highlights the rich basketball history of New York City’s five boroughs, including interviews with Manhattan’s Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Brooklyn’s Bernard King and Chris Mullin, the Bronx’s Nate “Tiny” Archibald, Queens’ Smith and a look at Staten Island’s memorable 1983 St. Peter’s championship team. The 30-minute episode, which will also focus on the city’s tradition of talented point guards and celebrated playground basketball, premieres at 6 p.m.

Thursday, February 13

  • NBA TV will televise a “Dunk-A-Thon” on Thursday, Feb. 13, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. The slate of events will include every Slam Dunk competition, including the first Slam Dunk contest ever held (during the 1976 ABA All-Star Game).
  • NBA TV’s live coverage of the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge Practice from Long Island University in Brooklyn will start at 5 p.m., with the two-hour telecast including All-Star previews and analysis from NBA TV’s Rick Fox and Isiah Thomas. (Live streamed via NBA.com)

Friday, February 14

  • NBA GameTime presented by State Farm will offer comprehensive coverage of NBA All-Star Media Day featuring live interviews with participants from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Live streamed via NBA.com)
  • The network will also provide live coverage of the NBA Fit press conference at 1:30 p.m.
  • NBA TV will air an All-Star edition of The Beat presented by The All-New Chrysler 200 at 5 p.m., with NBA TV’s Vince Cellini, Sekou Smith and David Aldridge.
  • The Starters will be televised from 6-7 p.m. with J.E. Skeets, Tas Melas and team talking hoops and providing their unique take on the league entering NBA All-Star weekend.
  • NBA GameTime presented by State Farm will be live at 11:30 p.m. recapping all the day’s highlights, news and information with host Rick Kamla and analysts Brent Barry and Rick Fox from Barclays Center.
  • NBA.com will live stream BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge postgame press conferences following the event.  

Saturday, February 15

  • The network will televise exclusive coverage of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Announcement at 10 a.m. (Live streamed via NBA.com)
  • NBA TV will present exclusive coverage of NBA All-Star Practice presented by Sean Jean at Macy’s from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. on location at Madison Square Garden with NBA TV analysts, Hill and Webber, along with Marv Albert, David Aldridge, Rachel Nichols, Kristen Ledlow, Jared Greenberg and The Starters. The practice will also include the ‘Degree Battle of the Game Changers,’ with Stephen Curry and John Wall competing shot for shot to be named the “Ultimate Game Changer.” (Live streamed via NBA.com)
  • NBA Inside Stuff presented by Samsung GALAXY – premiering at 1 p.m., Hill and Ledlow will co-host a special episode highlighting NBA All-Star 2015 and the event’s backdrop, New York City. The 30-minute episode will be on location at various points across the city, including visiting the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, the NBA House presented by BBVA Compass in Brooklyn and Madison Square Garden.
  • The Starters: Top 20 NBA All-Star Moments at 1:30 p.m. will discuss the top 20 moments in NBA All-Star history.
  • NBA TV will air Commissioner Adam Silver’s All-Star Press Conference at 7 p.m., also streamed live prior to TNT’s exclusive presentation of State Farm NBA All-Star Saturday Night. (Live streamed via NBA.com)
  • An All-Star edition of NBA GameTime at All-Star 2015 presented by Kia will be televised at 11 p.m. recapping all the day’s highlights, news and information with Cellini, Dennis Scott and Steve Smith from Barclays Center.
  • NBA.com will live stream coverage of post-event press conferences following State Farm All-Star Saturday Night.

Sunday, February 16

  • NBA TV will tip off the day with coverage of the NBA Legends Brunch at 12:30 p.m. from the Javits Center. (Live streamed via NBA.com starting at 11 a.m.)
  • The network will televise the NBA D-League All-Star Game presented by Kumho Tire at 2:30 p.m. with NBA TV’s Kamla, Scott, Barry and Greenberg calling the game.
  • A special NBA GameTime: All-Star Sunday starts at 5 p.m. from Madison Square Garden, with Winer, Steve Smith and Hill, followed by live coverage of the Sprint Pregame Concert at NBA All-Star at 6 p.m.
  • Following TNT’s exclusive presentation of the NBA All-Star Game, NBA TV will air Inside the NBA presented by Kia with Johnson, Charles Barkley, O’Neal and Kenny Smith live from New York City.
  • NY Heroes: Bravest vs. Finest, a basketball game featuring the NYPD and FDNY, will live stream via NBA.com on Sunday starting at 12:15 p.m.
  • NBA.com will also live stream postgame press conferences following the NBA All-Star Game.

Digital and social media highlights include:

NBA.com

  • NBA.com is launching NBA Mt. Rushmore, a meme generator which allows fans to choose their own collection of the greatest NBA players of all time, similar to LeBron James selecting his list, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson and Oscar Robertson, in an interview with NBA TV’s Steve Smith prior to last year’s NBA All-Star Game. Fans can search players by name, position or category, then choose their top four picks; categories include greatest forwards, greatest guards and best dunkers. Once selected, users can name their mountain and then share across Facebook and Twitter.
  • TNT Overtime will offer fans a unique video companion experience throughout All-Star weekend – including the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge, State Farm All-Star Saturday Night and the NBA All-Star Game presented by Kia Motors.
  • Social Spotlight will continuously keep fans up to speed on the latest social engagement by NBA players, teams and the conversations surrounding them throughout the weekend.
  • NBA All-Star Pulse will present updates, news, video and photos from All-Star festivities throughout the weekend. Featured on the NBA.com home page, fans can follow tweets from NBA players and insiders, share user-generated video, check which topics and content are trending in real time and get behind-the-scenes video from players and celebrities.
  • Fan Voting – Fans will be able to vote for the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge MVP and Kia NBA All-Star MVP via online, mobile web, SMS text messaging, Twitter and via the NBA Game Time app.
  • All-Star Scene – The All-Star Scene goes mobile with NBA and NBA Digital cameras behind the velvet rope at All-Star events and activities. All-Star Scene will be sponsored by JBL, Ciroc and WB’s Focus.
  • NBA Style – Devoted to NBA All-Star style and presented by Samsung GALAXY, the NBA.com microsite will feature enhanced content including interviews, photo collages and more, along with social engagement.
  • NBA.com’s All-Star Online Coverage including desktop, mobile and the NBA Game Time app will be presented by JBL, Ciroc, Cisco and H&R Block.

NBA Mobile

  • NBA Game Time – The league’s signature mobile app will allow fans to track all the live event action with special features including audio from the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge and NBA All-Star Game, live coverage from State Farm All-Star Saturday Night and other behind-the-scenes content.
  • All-Star Dashboard – A fullevent display via NBA Game Time for the weekend including schedules, featured videos, live press conference streams, live video, social feeds and headlines.
  • Event Sections – Special sections on NBA Game Time for each of the All-Star festivities including event information, ticket links, venue maps, directions, video, live scoring and social feeds from events including Jam Session, the Celebrity Game, the BBVA Compass Rising Stars Challenge, the NBA D-League All Star Game presented by Kumho Tire, State Farm All-Star Saturday Night, the Sprint Pregame Concert and the NBA All-Star Game.
  • All-Star Video Channels– Behind-the-scenes video from All Star Scene and highlights from the events.
  • NBA All-Star NYC App – A guide to navigating NBA All-Star Events in NYC, the NBA All-Star NYC App provides event schedules and ticket information, as well as point-to-point directions with maps and public transportation info to help fans get around New York City. It also includes links to content from NBA Game Time and exclusive in-arena content.

NBA TV is a part of NBA Digital, the NBA’s extensive cross-platform portfolio of digital assets jointly-managed by the NBA and Turner Sports including NBA TV, NBA.com, NBA LEAGUE PASS, NBA LEAGUE PASS Broadband, NBA Mobile, NBADLEAGUE.com and WNBA.com.

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Filed Under: NBA

Quotes From Super Bowl XLIX Editions of NFL Network’s ‘NFL GameDay First’ & ‘NFL GameDay Morning’

February 5, 2015 By admin

superbowl-xlix-49-logo-nfl-nbcQuick Quotes from NFL GameDay First & NFL GameDay Morning

– “I think if [Tom Brady] wins this game, he’s the best quarterback to have ever played this game.” – Shaun O’Hara on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady

– “If he wins a fourth [Super Bowl], he’s the greatest ever in my book.” – Michael Irvin on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady

– “[Bill Belichick] is the best professional football coach I think ever lived. I’m upset that I played for a plethora of teams and never got an opportunity to play for Bill Belichick.” – Deion Sanders on New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick

– “I think it’s relatively easy to play defense against a team that can only do one thing. Unfortunately, that’s not what we’re talking about here with Seattle.” – New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick on the Seattle Seahawks

– “You just never know with contract situations and the whole business side of it. I’m here now and I’m happy to be here now. The future will take care of itself.” – New England Patriots cornerback Darrelle Revis on what next year holds

– “It’s not just back-to-back Super Bowls – it’s back-to-back Super Bowls in his first three years, it’s back-to-back Super Bowls climbing over the backs of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning…If Russell Wilson wins back-to-back Super Bowls, there is no doubt it puts him amongst the top.” – Michael Irvin on Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson

– “They don’t just want to just win one championship – they want to win three or four. They want to be a dynasty. They want to be known forever.” – Michael Robinson on the Seattle Seahawks

– “I think [Marshawn Lynch] is the most important player in this football game.” – Kurt Warner on Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch

– “These [Seattle Seahawks wide receivers] have been called pedestrian, they’ve been called no-namers, but they always come up with the big play.” – Nate Burleson on the Seattle Seahawks wide receivers

– “Marshawn Lynch is going to get paid. I’m told the Seattle Seahawks have made him a monster contract extension offer that would keep him in a Seahawks uniform for the rest of his career.” – Ian Rapoport on Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch

***For complete quotes from ‘NFL GameDay First’ & ‘NFL GameDay Morning,’ see below***

Quotes from NFL GameDay First

– “I think if [Tom Brady] wins this game, he’s the best quarterback to have ever played this game.” – Shaun O’Hara on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady

– “If Russell Wilson gets outside of the protection [and] can scramble around, New England loses. If [the Patriots] keep him in the pocket, New England wins.” – Brian Billick on Super Bowl XLIX

– “Luke Willson…I believe will have as many catches and more yards than Rob Gronkowski.” – Sterling Sharpe on Seattle Seahawks tight end Luke Willson

– “What Pete Carroll and John Schneider did a great job of was collecting a group of players – core players – that were outliers. These guys, they don’t just want to just win one championship – they want to win three or four. They want to be a dynasty. They want to be known forever.” – Michael Robinson on what fuels the Seattle Seahawks

– “I told my team before we walked out on to the field in Tampa, I wanted them to stop and look each other in the eye – I mean really look each other in the eye because 10 minutes after we we’re done beating the New York Giants, I knew that world would change; free agency, the business side of the business. I wanted them to appreciate this doesn’t come very often. It may be the last time you have that opportunity.” – Brian Billick on the mindset of players and coaches on Super Bowl Sunday

– “I expect what you’ve seen from Marshawn Lynch all season long: fast, physical, aggressive Beast Mode running.” – Michael Robinson on what he expects from Seattle Seahawks Marshawn Lynch

– “[Rob Gronkowski] is a beast. I don’t know what else to say, I don’t know what other word to use. He dictates coverage, he’s a great run blocker and he’s a mismatch for anybody in the passing game.” – Michael Robinson on Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski

Quotes from NFL GameDay Morning

– “I think [Marshawn Lynch] is the most important player in this football game.” – Kurt Warner on Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch

– “Bill Belichick and Tom Brady are the masters of finding something that you didn’t suspect.” – Deion Sanders on what he expects from the New England Patriots today

– “These [Seattle Seahawks wide receivers] have been called pedestrian, they’ve been called no-namers but they always come up with the big play.” – Nate Burleson on the Seattle Seahawks wide receivers

– “[Rob Gronkowski] is different. He dictates coverage. He sets the tone for your entire team. But you can’t stop this guy; let’s just be honest you can’t stop him. You can only hope to contain him.” – Michael Robinson on how the Seattle Seahawks stop Rob Gronkowski

– “It’s not just back-to-back Super Bowls – it’s back-to-back Super Bowls in his first three years, it’s back-to-back Super Bowls climbing over the backs of Tom Brady and Peyton Manning…If Russell Wilson wins back-to-back Super Bowls, there is no doubt it puts him amongst the top and right where he belongs because he hasn’t gotten all of the credit he deserves for the kind of quarterback [he is].” – Michael Irvin on what a win in this game would mean for Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson

– “If [Russell Wilson] wins this game…He starts to creep into the conversation of how we talk about Tom Brady, how we talk about Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, [and] Aaron Rodgers.” – Marshall Faulk on Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson

– “Marshawn Lynch is the heart of this team. If he’s not going, [the Seahawks] aren’t going.” – Deion Sanders on Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch

– “I don’t think anybody in the game over the last several years has made more plays than Richard Sherman.” – Deion Sanders on Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman

– “If he wins a fourth [Super Bowl], he’s the greatest ever in my book.” – Michael Irvin on New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady

– “I think he supersedes Peyton Manning but let’s not throw [Tom Brady] in the category with Joe Montana, who was 4-for-4. He’s royalty.” – Deion Sanders on the impact of a fourth Super Bowl win or a third straight Super Bowl loss on Tom Brady’s legacy

– “[Bill Belichick] is the best professional football coach I think ever lived. I’m upset that I played for a plethora of teams and never got an opportunity to play for Bill Belichick.” – Deion Sanders on New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick

– “Why do we always have to put running dual-threat quarterback next to [Russell Wilson’s] name? Why can’t he just be one of the greatest quarterbacks?” – Terrell Davis on Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport

On Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson’s contract status:

“There have been no negotiations yet between Seattle and Russell Wilson’s agent Mark Rodgers, a baseball agent. No one wants any distractions as the Seahawks make another Super Bowl run but as soon as the Super Bowl ends, negotiations are set to begin. They are expected to make Russell Wilson the highest-paid player in NFL history. If you’re wondering the ballpark figure, Aaron Rodgers makes about $22 million per year. That is where negotiations will begin for Russell Wilson…He is among the winningest young quarterbacks out there. That’s going to be one of his big talking points. Everything the Seahawks have done this offseason has been to build for this Russell Wilson extension; they traded Percy Harvin, they got Cliff Avril done, [and] they got K.J. Wright done all to set up a deal for Russell Wilson this offseason.”

On Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch:

“Marshawn Lynch is going to get paid. I’m told the Seattle Seahawks have made him a monster contract extension offer that would keep him in a Seahawks uniform for the rest of his career. This is the culmination of several weeks of negotiations between Doug Hendrickson, his agent, and the Seattle Seahawks. As far as some specifics on his looming contract extension, I’m told that in 2015 Lynch would earn more than $10 million. This would pay him as much as any running back not named Adrian Peterson. A huge extension and a stunning turnaround. We know earlier this year, the Seahawks were ready to get rid of Marshawn Lynch; move on because of his age, because of his attitude and his hefty salary so I asked a member of the Seahawks, ‘Why are you making this commitment?’ What I was told simply, ‘He has earned it with his play.’”

On the deflated footballs:

“There is video evidence of an elderly game day operator – someone employed by the Patriots only on game day – walking into the bathroom with two bags of balls: 12 from the Patriots and 12 from the Colts, spending 98 seconds in there and then heading back onto the field. This was discovered by the Patriots and handed over to Ted Wells very quickly. I spoke with someone who was with Tom Brady when he found out about these allegations and Brady seemed confused and a little miffed and said he works on the balls all week but does not know what happened to them on game day. As far as the 11 footballs that I’m told were below the 12.5 PSI, one was about two pounds under – that’s the one that is in the league’s possession – several were about a pound under and several more were just a tick below 12.5 PSI. By the way, the Patriots still have most of those footballs. They were put back into circulation before the investigation started.”

New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick with NFL Media’s Melissa Stark

NFL Media’s Melissa Stark sat down with New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick for an interview on NFL Network’s NFL GameDay First and NFL GameDay Morning.

On how much having his integrity questioned this week has bothered him:

“Well this week’s all about Seattle, so we’ve been doing our best to prepare for the Seahawks. I’m doing that, our team’s doing that and we’ll be ready to go Sunday. That’s our focus.”

On how he plans on shutting down Marshawn Lynch:

“I think it’s relatively easy to play defense against a team that can only do one thing. Unfortunately, that’s not what we’re talking about here with Seattle. They have a great running back – they have a great group of running backs – but [Marshawn] Lynch obviously is really kind of in a class by himself. The quarterback’s a problem, the receivers are a problem, they have a good offensive line.”

To view the entire interview with Belichick, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466369/Belichick-revealed

Seattle Seahawks Quarterback Russell Wilson with NFL Network’s Kurt Warner

NFL Network’s Kurt Warner sat down with Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson for an interview on NFL Network’s NFL GameDay First and NFL GameDay Morning.

On whether or not there was a moment where he said, ‘That’s where it changed’ during the season trying to repeat as Super Bowl champions:

“We were 6-4 and everybody doubted us. We lost to the Kansas City Chiefs and that week we had a players meeting and really talked about where we really want to go. It’s not about the record. At the end of the day it comes down to are we going to keep focusing on each other and are we going to keep getting better day by day? We ignored the noise, we ignored all the talk from the outside.”

On playing against Peyton Manning in last year’s Super Bowl and Tom Brady in this year’s Super Bowl:

“Well you always want to play against the best. That’s what you’re going to get in the Super Bowl. To go against guys like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady who I have tons of respect for; I watch their games, I study their games, I try to learn from them. It gets you excited, but hopefully not too excited. Just focus on the game. Then when my career is done then I can look back at it.”

On his vision:

“In terms of professionally what I want to do, I want to play 15-plus more years, get to the Hall of Fame, and win a lot of championships and all that. I’d love to be the owner of a team one day. But it’s way bigger than that. For me, my vision is how can I affect somebody positively every day? When you focus on other people, somehow good things happen to you. I think that’s my goal. That’s my vision.”

To view the entire interview with Wilson, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466365/Kurt-Warner-s-one-on-one-with-Russell-Wilson

Seattle Seahawks Head Coach Pete Carroll with NFL Media’s Michael Silver

NFL Media’s Michael Silver sat down with Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll for an interview on NFL Network’s NFL GameDay Morning.

On how important the year off from coaching after he was fired by the New England Patriots was to him:

“I had no plan for that year but it wound up being one of the most important years of my football coaching career. It hit me along the way that I needed to really get at the heart of what’s really true to myself. And then I was able to mold it and shape it in the years at SC to become the approach and the concept and the culture that we try to create here at Seattle.”

On the success of the New England Patriots:

“I really admire the job that not just coach Belichick has done but that Robert Kraft and his family have done, and the decisions that they made to let Bill do what he’s capable of doing. I think it’s a great illustration of a way to structure an NFL organization when you let the coach really run the thing.”

To view the entire interview with Carroll, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466799/The-return-of-Pete-Carroll

New England Patriots Cornerback Darrelle Revis with NFL Media’s Andrea Kremer

NFL Media’s Andrea Kremer sat down with New England Patriots cornerback Darrelle Revis for an interview on NFL Network’s NFL GameDay Morning.

On what went through his mind when he realized he was finally going to the Super Bowl:

“Just relief of trying to get there for eight years. It’s finally here and I’m very excited. It’s just great. It’s been a long ride.”

On how he evaluates his play now:

“Actually I feel I’m a better player; more mentally. I guess you get better with age people say. You have a lot more wisdom.”

On ways in which he feels a greater appreciation for where he is:

“I’ve always been humble and this even humbled me even more to definitely get a second chance at my career. There are still chapters I’m writing in this legacy.”

On what next year holds:

“You just never know with contract situations and the whole business side of it. I’m here now and I’m happy to be here now. The future will take care of itself.”

To view the entire interview, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466821/Revis-gets-a-second-chance

New England Patriots Chairman & CEO Robert Kraft with NFL Media’s Melissa Stark

NFL Media’s Melissa Stark sat down with New England Patriots Chairman & CEO Robert Kraft for an interview on NFL Network’s NFL GameDay Morning.

On what he learned from firing Pete Carroll and what needed to change within the organization to support the head coach:

“To be fair to Pete [Carroll], I had just come off a very difficult owner relationship with my then head coach and I was looking for a different style. So I didn’t give Pete all the power he should have had. I don’t think there’s any exact formula for how it’s done. It’s really what fits each individual system.”

On if he thought Bill Belichick was capable of this when he hired him:

“The greatest decisions I’ve made in my life are by instinct. I remember when I hired Bill I had a lot of people telling me it was a mistake. But he and I had established a rapport in ’96 when he coached the secondary. You need a coach that understands economics, that understands the impact of the salary cap and how to make those difficult decisions that allow you to sustain success over the long term. I don’t think there’s anyone better than Bill at doing that.”

On where his passionate speech he gave Monday in Arizona came from:

“I just didn’t like the way we were, in my opinion, being unfairly attacked. I just decided to do what was right for our family.”

On what the Patriot family stands for:

“We play by the rules, we play hard and we prepare hard. The work ethic of our team and preparation is like no other in my opinion and we try to make our fans in America proud.”

To view the entire interview, visit:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466955/Kraft-opens-up-about-late-wife-Myra-Pete-Carroll

On NFL.com the following video clips from NFL GameDay First & NFL GameDay Morning are available for viewing:

– Super Bowl XLIX Bold Predictions – NFL GameDay Morning provides Super Bowl XLIX Bold Predictions:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466793/Super-Bowl-XLIX-bold-predictions

– Marshawn Lynch’s Oakland Roots – NFL Media’s Michael Silver travels to Oakland to profile Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch’s roots:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466951/Marshawn-Lynch-s-Oakland-roots

– The Evolution of Gronk – NFL Media’s Andrea Kremer sat down with New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-super-bowl/0ap3000000466371/The-evolution-of-Gronk

– Adriana Lima Joins NFL GameDay Morning – Model Adriana Lima joined the NFL GameDay Morning set at the University of Phoenix Stadium:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466927/Adriana-Lima-joins-NFL-GameDay-Morning

– NFL GameDay Morning: Super Bowl Shout-Outs – The NFL GameDay Morning crew gives the Super Bowl shout-outs:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466771/NFL-GameDay-Morning-Super-Bowl-shout-outs

– Seattle Sound – Notable Seattle residents discuss the city and its football team:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466801/Seattle-Sound

– Compton Seahawks – NFL Media’s Mark Kriegel visits Compton, California for a feature on Seattle Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466797/Compton-s-Seahawks

– The Good Luck Barber – NFL GameDay Morning profiles the Seattle Seahawks’ lucky barber:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-super-bowl/0ap3000000466832/The-good-luck-barber

– The Quarterback-Head Coach Relationship – NFL Media’s Andrea Kremer speaks with quarterbacks and coaches to analyze the quarterback-head coach relationship:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466368/The-QB-and-Coach-relationship

– NFL GameDay Morning: Breaking Down the 2015 Hall of Fame Class – The NFL GameDay Morning crew discuss this year’s Pro Football Hall of Fame class:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466780/NFL-GameDay-Morning-Breaking-down-the-2015-Hall-of-Fame-class

– What Would Back-To-Back Super Bowls Mean for Russell Wilson? – Host Rich Eisen and analysts Steve Mariucci, Marshall Faulk, Kurt Warner, Warren Sapp and Michael Irvin talk about the legacy of Russell Wilson if he wins Super Bowl XLIX:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466786/What-would-back-to-back-Super-Bowls-mean-for-Wilson

– More Important Today, Marshawn Lynch or LeGarrette Blount? – Who is more important today: Marshawn Lynch or LeGarrette Blount? LaDainian Tomlinson and Terrell Davis discuss:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466800/More-Important-Today-Lynch-or-Blount

– Who Could be the Surprise Super Bowl MVP? – NFL GameDay Morning discusses which players could be the surprise Super Bowl MVP:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466863/Who-could-be-the-surprise-Super-Bowl-MVP

– Ian Rapoport: ‘Lynch is Going to Get Paid’ – NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport provides the latest on Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466773/Rapoport-Lynch-is-going-to-get-paid

– Ian Rapoport on the Latest Regarding the Deflated Footballs – NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport with the latest on the deflated footballs:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466798/Rapoport-on-the-latest-from-DeflateGate

– Dan Quinn Expected to be Named Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Monday – NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reports that Seattle Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn is expected to be named Atlanta Falcons head coach on Monday:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466878/Dan-Quinn-expected-to-be-named-Falcons-head-coach-Monday

– Best of Mini Mooch 2014 – The best from Mini Mooch throughout the season:

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-network-gameday/0ap3000000466811/Best-of-Mini-Mooch-2014

 

ABOUT NFL NETWORK

Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, fans turn to NFL Network to receive information and insight straight from the field, team headquarters, league offices and everywhere the NFL is making news. Launched in 2003, NFL Network gives fans unprecedented year-round inside access to all NFL events, including the Super Bowl, Playoffs, regular season, preseason, Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame induction weekend, NFL Draft, NFL Scouting Combine, Senior Bowl, league meetings, minicamps and training camps.

Currently in more than 72 million homes, NFL Network has carriage agreements with each of the country’s largest television providers including Comcast, DirecTV, DISH Network, Cablevision, Cox, Charter, Time Warner Cable, Verizon FiOS and AT&T U-Verse.

For fans on the go, all NFL Network programming can also be streamed live on the NFL Mobile from Verizon app (NFL.com/mobile), the NFL app delivered on XBOX from Microsoft, and through Watch NFL Network (NFL.com/watch), with participating cable and satellite providers. For more information, log on to NFL.com/nflnetwork.  NFL.com is the exclusive internet home of NFL Network.

– NFL MEDIA –

Filed Under: NFL, NFLN

NFL’s EVP Football Operations Troy Vincent Says He’s Never Seen A Worse Year For The NFL, 60 Minutes Sports Tuesday on SHOWTIME

February 3, 2015 By admin

60-Minutes-Sports-showtimeVincent IDs Colts GM Ryan Grigson as the one who Set Off “Deflategate”

NEW YORK (Feb. 2, 2015) – One of the most exciting Super Bowls in history is over, and the repair work on the NFL’s image is just beginning.  One of the league’s top executives says the recent year of scandals in the league is the worst he has seen in his 22 years as an NFL player and executive.  NFL EVP Football Operations Troy Vincent addresses the NFL’s problems and its responses to them, including the origin of “Deflategate” and the antics of Marshawn Lynch, in an interview with Armen Keteyian on the next edition of 60 MINUTES SPORTS, premiering Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 10 p.m. ET/PT only on SHOWTIME.

Asked by Keteyian if he has ever seen such a bad year for the NFL, Vincent replies, “To answer your question, no.”  Over the past year the league has been saddled with scandals and criticized for its response to them.  Among the problems faced by the NFL was the class action concussion lawsuit, the Adrian Peterson child-abuse story, the Ray Rice domestic abuse charges and then “Deflategate.”

The NFL was accused of dragging its feet in its investigation and discipline of Rice when the world saw him violently punching his girlfriend.  The harshest criticism came from an independent report from former FBI Director Robert Mueller revealing that the NFL’s own investigator did little more than read newspaper accounts of the Rice affair.  Asked about Mueller’s report, Vincent says he did not read it.

Asked why he didn’t read the report, Vincent replies, “The crime had already been committed…We acknowledge we made a mistake. We didn’t apply the proper discipline.”  Pressed by Keteyian that it was more than inadequately disciplining Rice that the report exposed, but the league’s incompetence, Vincent says, “We failed. From that exercise, and that horrific situation, we got better.  Our processes are better. We have now experts who—true experts and investigators working alongside our staff…We can’t go back in time.”

On “Deflategate,” Vincent confirmed that the Indianapolis Colts GM Ryan Grigson told the NFL in the second quarter of the AFC Championship Game that the New England Patriots might be tampering with the footballs.

On Marshawn Lynch, whose crotch-grabbing end zone antics and appearances at Super Bowl Media Day have embarrassed the league, Vincent says “Well, we try. We communicate. There’s been discipline.”  But it hasn’t worked Keteyian points out.  “Right,” says Vincent. “But you…can’t stop trying. I take full responsibility that I have to do a better job of educating.”

# # #

 

Filed Under: ShowTime

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