THE BLEACHER BRIEFINGS

In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we're talkin' March Madness, NBA and NFL!

NCAA Tournament assessment; the road to the Sweet 16 (0:39 mark)
Top seeds bounced; where did Wichita State, Kansas and Duke go wrong? (1:51)
Best team remaining; of the 16 squads still standing, which is the one that no one wants to see the rest of the way? (7:35)
Pick a Cinderella; which of the 3 double-digit seeds still alive in the tourney has the best chance at continuing their surprise run? (8:26)
Sorry state of the 76ers; Philly is now just one game away from tying the longest losing streak in NBA history. Will they eclipse the record, and what are the chances that they lose out the remainder of the season? (9:47)
Trouble in South Beach; with the Heat struggling of late, is there cause for concern as the playoffs draw near? (12:13)
Jets sign Michael Vick; did New York make the right decision signing the veteran quarterback, and what does the addition mean for Geno Smith's job security both short and long-term? (16:06)
Roddy White Twitter controversy; should the wide receiver be on the hook for season tickets following a bet he made with a fan on the social-media platform? (19:30)

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we're talkin' NCAA hoops, NFL and NBA!

NCAA Tournament Preview; a look at each region of the bracket, discussing the teams to beat and potential sleepers in each (0:59 mark)
Final Four/National Championship predictions; which teams will advance to AT&T Stadium in Arlington and who will ultimately cut down the nets? (11:56)
NFL Free Agency talk; one of the most important times of the league's offseason, which teams have made the best moves so far, and which have no-showed? (13:49)
Phil Jackson accepts the job as President of Basketball Operations for the Knicks; what it means for the team moving forward (18:33)
Colts owner Jim Irsay faces four felony counts of possession of a controlled substance; how should the league handle it? (21:47)
Both the Clippers and Spurs have been hot of late; which team is the bigger threat to come out of the Western Conference? (24:18)

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we're talkin' a variety of NFL topics, pro and college basketball, boxing, NASCAR, and hockey from the Sochi Winter Games!

NFL Combine discussion; more than just numbers/to throw or not throw?/who has impressed?/who should be the No. 1 overall pick in the draft? (0:45 mark)
How stable is the relationship between Jim Harbaugh and the 49ers following trade talks with the Browns? (5:20)
League Competition Committee considering rule to penalize teams on the field for use of the n-word (8:09)
In signing with the Nets, center Jason Collins becomes the first active openly gay athlete in North America's four major professional sports (10:00)
Floyd Mayweather to fight Marcos Maidana on May 3rd; what to expect (11:59)
Is Dale Earnhardt, Jr. the favorite to win the Sprint Cup title following his second career win in the Daytona 500? (15:36)
Syracuse/Duke game; Jim Boeheim's meltdown (17:11)
Men's and Women's Hockey comes up short for Team USA in Sochi; who choked more? (19:33)

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss major storylines from the Winter Olympics in Sochi, the NBA's All-Star gala, and contentious calls in college basketball games from over the weekend!

Down the Homestetch in Sochi: With the conclusion of the XXII Winter Games now in sight, we break down some of the highs and lows for Team USA entering the final week of competition, and take a closer look at the staple of every Winter Olympics; Men's Ice Hockey.
Big Easy Welcomes the Stars: The NBA's hierarchy was in full mass in New Orleans on Saturday and Sunday, with the Smoothie King Center playing host to the annual Skills Challenge, Three-Point Shootout, Slam Dunk Contest and All-Star Game. Was the overall event a hit or miss? Did the right man take home the game's Most Valuable Player Award? Hear our take.
Poor Officiating Takes Center Stage in College Hoops: Over the weekend, glaring mistakes by officials in both the Maryland-Duke and Arizona-Arizona State game stained the final outcome of each. Was this a precursor to the type of "madness" we're in for next month? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We debate just how historically bad this year's Slam Dunk Contest truly was, as well as share our opinions on the results from ESPN's anonymous survey of NFL players regarding their thoughts on having a gay teammate, and the type of impact the loss of pitcher Ryan Dempster has on Boston's chances of repeating as World Series champions!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss All-American Michael Sam's monumental announcement on ESPN's Outside the Lines, Marcus Smart's physical altercation with a Texas Tech fan in the stands Saturday, and Alex Rodriguez's decision to drop his lawsuit against Major League Baseball!

NFL Prospect Reveals He's Gay: In an interview with Chris Connelly on Sunday, SEC Co-Defensive Player of the Year Michael Sam stated publicly what his teammates and coaches at Mizzou have known since August; "I am an openly proud gay man." What type of impact could Sam's announcement have on where he's selected in the draft, and is the National Football League really ready for an openly gay man in the locker rooms? Hear our take.
Smart Loses His Cool Yet Again: Late in the game in a loss to the Red Raiders Saturday, Oklahoma State All-American Marcus Smart entered the stands and shoved a fan after the man heckled him following a foul under the basket. Considering this wasn't the first time Smart did something ill-tempered on the court this year, was the three-game suspension he received enough, and will the reputation he's developed come back to haunt him when the NBA Draft rolls around in June? We'll tell you.
MLB Finally Breaks A-Rod: Last Friday, lawyers representing Alex Rodriguez filed a notice of dismissal in his lawsuit against Major League Baseball, essentially ending one of the most controversial chapters in the history of the league's performance-enhancing drug program. After months of proclaiming his innocence and deeming the investigation a "witch hunt," was A-Rod's decision surprising? We break it down.

Plus:

We debate whether or not the 76ers are purposely tanking this season, and if head coach Maurice Cheeks got a raw deal with the Pistons!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap Seattle's convincing victory over the Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII, debate which team has a better chance at a return trip to the Big Game next season, and determine what Peyton Manning's lasting legacy will be once and for all!

Seahawks Cruise to a Title: Super Bowl XLVIII was supposed to be a coronation for the greatest offense in the history of the NFL, but the wrong team showed up. Instead, Seattle laid claim to a historical distinction of their own; best defense ever. How did the Seahawks manage to derail Denver's high-powered offense en route to the franchise's first Lombardi Trophy? Hear our take.
See You in Arizona?: From start to finish, the Seahawks and Broncos were the two best teams in the National Football League this season. But which squad is in the best position for a return trip to Super Sunday next year and why? We'll tell you.
A Legacy in Limbo?: Peyton Manning has been widely regarded as the greatest regular season quarterback of all time for several years now. Unfortunately for No. 18, playoff games aren't played during the regular season. What, if anything, did Sunday's demoralizing defeat do to Peyton's lasting legacy in the overall big picture? Our answers may surprise you.

Plus:

We decide if Malcolm Smith was the right choice for Super Bowl MVP honors, and grade both the commercials and halftime show from the single biggest sporting event of the year!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Conference Championship Sunday in the NFL playoffs, recap the big storylines from the first half of the college basketball season, and take an in-depth look at the monster year Kevin Durant is having for the Oklahoma City Thunder!

MetLife Stadium, Here We Come: On Sunday, the Broncos and Seahawks punched their tickets to the biggest game of the year with impressive wins in their respective Conference Championship Games. We break down how each team managed to get the job done, and take an early look at the matchup football fans the world over will be focusing on February 2nd; Super Bowl XLVIII.
March Madness on the Horizon: With half of the 2013-14 college basketball campaign now in the books, we key in on some of the big stories from the first two months of the season, and debate who the team to beat is in this year's NCAA Tournament.
KD Ups His Game: With Russell Westbrook down with another knee injury, superstar forward Kevin Durant has put the Thunder on his back and taken his play to another level, averaging 36 points per over the last 13 games. How big of a threat is OKC to the rest of the Western Conference, and does this team have what it takes to potentially dethrone the Heat once the postseason rolls around? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss Richard Sherman's postgame interview with Erin Andrews following Seattle's Super Bowl clinching win on Sunday, Bill Belichick's accusation that his former wide receiver Wes Welker intentionally took out CB Aqib Talib in the AFC title game, and the wild melee that ensued between the Flames and Canucks just seconds into their game Saturday night!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs (and also preview Conference Championship Sunday), Alex Rodriguez's decision to take on the powers that be in Major League Baseball, and the controversy surrounding Dan Le Batard and his Hall of Fame ballot!

NFL Postseason, Round 2: The Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs saw multiple teams fans have grown accustomed to seeing this time of year, as well as a few surprise squads that rounded out the field. We break down the matchups from this weekend's slate of games, as well as preview Sunday's Conference Championship tilts.
A-Rod vs. MLB: Over the weekend, an arbitrator ruled that Alex Rodriguez would be suspended for the entire 2014 season for PED use, despite the fact that he has never tested positive for anything. A-Rod's response? Sue pretty much everyone connected to Major League Baseball. How did we get here, and what exactly does all this mean? Hear our take.
Le Batard Deadspin's the Hall of Fame Voting: Last week, it was revealed that sportswriter Dan Le Batard let Deadspin.com have his Baseball Hall of Fame ballot, who in turn allowed their readers to make the selections and cast the vote. Since then, Le Batard has been kicked out of the BBWAA for one year and barred from future Hall of Fame votes. Was Le Batard in the wrong here, or are his issues with the direction the voting process has taken just cause for his actions? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We debate whether or not Jimmy Graham is a soft, overrated player, and if this year's Pro Bowl might actually be worth tuning in for!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the BCS National Championship Game and Wild Card Weekend in the NFL!

Florida State Reigns Supreme: The final title game of the BCS era didn't disappoint, as FSU and Auburn put on a thrilling show that went down to the wire. How were the Tigers able to seize control of the game early on? What was the turning point of the contest? Could coach Gus Malzahn have done anything differently that may have changed the final outcome in Auburn's favor? We answer these questions and more.
A Wild Wild Card Weekend: The opening round of the NFL playoffs was a wild one to say the least, with one game seeing a team lose at home for the first time all season, two being decided on the final play of regulation, and another featuring a comeback for the ages. We break them all down.
NFL Divisional Round Preview: With only eight teams still remaining in the quest for MetLife Stadium and Super Bowl XLVIII, we take an in-depth look at the four Divisional Round matchups this weekend, discuss the keys to victory for the participants, and predict who will advance to the next round.

Plus:

Following another early playoff exit, should the Cincinnati Bengals consider replacing Marvin Lewis as coach? Hear our take.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap Week 17 in the NFL, preview the matchups for Wild Card Weekend, and discuss the future of the coaches that received pink slips on Black Monday!

NFL's Regular Season Comes to a Close: Week 17 in the National Football League saw plenty of last-second drama, playoff berths clinched, and bubble teams sent home for the winter. We recap all the meaningful games from the final Sunday of the NFL's regular season.
Wild Card Weekend Preview: With the postseason now officially underway, we discus the keys to victory for the eight teams in action on Wild Card Weekend, and share our thoughts as to which squads have the best shot of advancing to the Divisional Round.
Monday, Bloody Monday: The Monday after the regular season ends is always the hardest on hot seat coaches around the league, and this year was no exception. With five coaches already given their walking papers, which has the best chance at landing another head coaching gig in 2014, and what other coaches may still get the boot before it's all said and done? Hear our take.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap Saturday's Heisman Trophy ceremony, Mack Brown's decision to step down as head coach of the Longhorns, and Week 15 in the NFL!

Famous Jameis Wins the Heisman: On Saturday, Jameis Winston became the third Florida State quarterback in history to take home college football's most coveted prize, and he did so in lopsided fashion. We look back at Winston's phenomenal freshman season, and break down the final standings in this year's Heisman voting.
Brown Out at Texas: After four-consecutive seasons with at least four losses, Mack Brown has decided to walk away as coach of the Longhorns. Was a change truly needed in Austin, and what has been the primary factor in the recent on-field struggles of the program? Hear our take.
NFL Week in Review: With multiple teams jockeying for playoff positioning and numerous others fighting for their postseason lives, Week 15 saw some of the craziest action of the season. From the improbable come-from-behind wins to the biggest upsets, we've got you covered in our NFL recap segment.

Plus:

We lay out all the possible playoff-clinching scenarios heading into this week's slate of NFL games, and call out a certain two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback for his atrocious play this year!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this, the 100th edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap conference championship weekend in college football, Week 14 in the NFL, and Kobe Bryant's first game back following last season's Achilles injury!

Pasadena, Here We Come: The scenarios were pretty cut and dry entering Saturday's conference showdowns in college football. For Florida State and Ohio State, win, and play for a national title; while Auburn, Alabama and Mizzou all needed help in some form or fashion if they were to have any hopes of playing January 6th. In the end, it was the Noles and (Auburn) Tigers punching their ticket to the biggest game of the season; The BCS National Championship. We look back at the pivotal conference championship games, and take an early look at Florida State-Auburn.
NFL, Week 14: If ever there were a wilder Sunday in the NFL, you'd be hard-pressed to find it, with the Lions and Eagles playing in a blizzard in Philly, the Vikings and Ravens exchanging points at a video game-type pace in the final two minutes of their contest, the Steelers nearly lateraling themselves to a miracle victory over the Dolphins, and the Browns figuring out a way to cough up a 12-point lead to Tom Brady and company in the last minute of their affair in Foxborough. We discuss these games and many more in our Week 14 review.
The Black Mamba Returns: On Sunday, Kobe Bryant took to the hardwood for the first time since tearing his Achilles back in April. We break down his overall performance and debate how long it will be before we're back to seeing the dominant player we've all grown accustom to watching over the last 17 years.

Plus:

Now that MLB's free agency period has shifted into high gear, we discuss some of the more surprising signings from around the league!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Saturday's thrilling Iron Bowl between No. 1 Alabama and No. 4 Auburn, the implications it had on the latest BCS rankings, and Week 13 in the NFL!

Instant College Football Classic: The 78th edition of the Iron Bowl was easily the best to date, as the Tigers came away with an improbable win over the Crimson Tide by returning a missed field goal all the way back for the game-winning touchdown on the game's final play. We break down how Auburn managed to pull the upset, and debate where the ending ranks among the greatest finishes in the history of college football.
Newest BCS Rankings: With their miraculous win this weekend, not only did the Tigers vault themselves into the national title picture, they busted the BCS wide open, with as many as six teams still potentially in play for Pasadena entering conference championship week. Do the undefeated Buckeyes deserve to be ranked ahead of Auburn with one loss? Can Mizzou leapfrog Alabama with a victory in the SEC Championship? We'll tell you.
Week 13 in the NFL: The thirteenth week of the NFL season saw several intriguing matchups on the schedule, including Peyton and the Broncos traveling to Arrowhead for their rematch with the Chiefs, the Eagles hosting the Cardinals in a battle of two surprise teams, and the Saints invading Seattle on Monday Night Football in an affair pitting the two top squads in the NFC against one another. We analyze these games and more in our NFL recap segment.

Plus:

Officials botching calls, coaches on the field, allegations of spying (again), and a new man at the helm for USC!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Manny Pacquiao's win over Brandon Rios in Saturday's WBO welterweight title bout, Derrick Rose going down with yet another knee injury, and Round 14 in the Tom Brady/Peyton Manning saga!

Manny Gets Back on Track: There were a plethora of questions surrounding Manny Pacquiao heading into Saturday night's showdown versus Brandon Rios. Could he rebound from back-to-back losses? Was he too old? Was his heart still in it? Well Manny answered a lot of those questions, dominating the 27-year-old en route to a unanimous decision victory. So what's next for Pacquiao, and is there any chance we may eventually see him climb in the ring with Floyd Mayweather? Hear our take.
Another Setback For D-Rose: Last Friday, Derrick Rose tore the meniscus in his right knee against the Trail Blazers and will now miss the remainder of the season following successful surgery Monday. With the former league MVP suffering two devastating injuries in less than two years, what should the Bulls do moving forward, and what are the odds of Rose ever getting back to being the player he was prior to the injuries? We'll tell you.
Brady vs. Manning, Take 14: On Sunday Night Football, Tom Brady and Peyton Manning clashed for the 14th time in their illustrious careers, and needless to say, the game didn't disappoint. Peyton's Broncos led by 24 at the break, before Tom Terrific rallied the troops to an improbable come-from-behind win in overtime. Did Bill Belichick make the right decision electing to kickoff after winning the toss in OT, and were Manning's struggles throwing the ball in the elements cause for concern for Denver once January rolls around? We break it down.

Plus:

We discuss the marquee matchups from Week 12 in the NFL, the biggest upsets from Saturday's slate of college football games, and the Lakers inking Kobe Bryant to a two-year extension!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss all the major news from around the NBA, college football and NFL!

NBA Discussion: Two weeks into the season, we look at which teams are hot, which teams are not, and name the most surprising things that have caught our attention early on in the National Basketball Association. How impressive has the Western Conference been? Are the Knicks and Nets in serious trouble? Which squads have the early inside track on a ping pong ball advantage in next year's draft lottery? We'll tell you.
College Football Headlines: In our FBS segment, we recap some of the bigger matchups from this past week, including Stanford-USC and Georgia-Auburn, compare the likes of Ohio State and Baylor to one another, and debate which team holds the advantage if we are in fact looking at a Florida State-Alabama national title game.
NFL Week 11 Rewind: The eleventh week of the schedule saw multiple must-see games on the slate, including the 49ers traveling to New Orleans to take on the Saints, the Broncos hosting the Chiefs in a battle for first in the AFC West, and Tom Brady and the Pats invading Carolina to lock horns with Cam Newton and the upstart Panthers on Monday Night Football. We break down these games and more in our NFL week in review.

Plus:

We discuss Belmont's 83-80 upset victory over No. 12 North Carolina in Chapel Hill on Sunday, and name our Stanley Cup favorites for the 2013-14 NHL season!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the 2013-14 NCAA basketball season, and discuss the week that was in both college and pro football!

NCAA Hoops Tip Off: Kentucky enters the season as the No. 1 team in the nation, but a slew of other squads have the potential to win it all, including defending national champion Louisville, Michigan State, Kansas and Duke, just to name a few. How does John Calipari manage to recruit so many top players each and every year? Will freshman phenom Andrew Wiggins live up to the hype? Who could be this season's Cinderella team come tournament time? We're breaking down these topics and more in our college basketball preview segment.
College Football Discussion: Week 11 on the college gridiron saw multiple big games on the slate, including two rivalries renewed; with No. 1 Alabama playing host to No. 13 LSU, and No. 3 Oregon traveling to Stanford to take on the 5th-ranked Cardinal. We discuss these games and more in our college football chat.
Week 10 in the NFL: The tenth week of the NFL season had just about everything the sport has to offer; from upsets few saw coming, to blowouts of epic proportions, to closely contested games that came down to the final possession. What happened to the Colts? Are the Giants officially back in the NFC East race? Is there cause for concern in Denver with a banged up Peyton Manning? Are the Panthers legit? Hear our take.

Plus:

We debate which NFL team has been the bigger disappointment this year; the Falcons or the Texans, and also weigh in on the comments tight end Delanie Walker made following Tennessee's loss to the previously winless Jaguars on Sunday!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the Boston Red Sox clinching their third World Series title in the last decade, the red-hot play of the Florida State Seminoles and freshman quarterback Jameis Winston, as well as the developing story out of the NFL involving Richie Incognito and allegations that he "bullied" Dolphins teammate Jonathan Martin!

Another Title For Beantown: Last Wednesday, the Red Sox clinched their third championship in the last ten seasons, knocking off the Cardinals 6-1 in Game 6 of the World Series. We take a look back at this memorable Fall Classic, and debate which team has the best chance at a repeat trip in 2014.
Noles on the Warpath: With a 41-14 blowout win over No. 7 Miami on Saturday, Florida State surged back to the two-spot in the latest BCS standings. With easy victories over two top 10 teams in the last three weeks, are the Seminoles currently the best team in the nation? Hear our take.
Not So Incognito: Last week, second-year tackle Jonathan Martin left the Miami Dolphins, citing "bullying" from fellow teammate Richie Incognito as the reason for his departure. The league has since launched a full investigation, and the team has suspended Incognito indefinitely. We take an in-depth look at this developing situation, and discuss the "hazing" of players in the NFL.

Plus:

We break down all the marquee matchups and storylines from Week 9 in the National Football League!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, special guest Jonathan Mathis joins us to preview the 2013-14 NBA season, and also sits in on our World Series discussion and Week 8 NFL recap segment!

NBA Preview: The Miami Heat are once again the team to beat this season, but which squads have a chance at dethroning the two-time defending champs? We break down the top teams in both the East and West, and predict who will battle it out in the Finals and ultimately bring home the Larry O'Brien Trophy.
Advantage, Boston: In a World Series packed full of suspense and never-before-seen finishes, the Sox seized control in Game 5, taking the series back to Fenway with a 3-2 lead. Can the Cardinals bounce back and force a decisive Game 7? Who has been the Most Valuable Player to this point, Big Papi or Jon Lester? Who's hoisting the Commissioner's Trophy when it's all said and done? Hear our take.
NFL Chat: Week 8 in the NFL saw RG3 and the Redskins open up a 14-point second-half lead on Peyton and the Broncos in Denver, before the bottom fell out on them at Sports Authority Field, and Big D manage to blow a game the only way they know how; in stunning fashion, as Matthew Stafford and the Lions roared back for an unforgettable win over the Cowboys at Ford Field. What led to these collapses/comebacks? We'll tell you.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the 2013 Fall Classic, discuss the marquee games from Week 7 in the NFL, as well as the initial standings in the Bowl Championship Series!

World Series Preview: Major League Baseball's playoffs are down to its final two participants, with the Boston Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals left to battle it out for all the proverbial marbles. We take an in-depth look at this scintillating matchup, and give our predictions for which team will take home the Commissioner's Trophy when it's all said and done.
NFL Chat: Week 7 in the NFL saw the Colts hand Peyton and the Broncos their first loss of the year, the Jets rally to stun Tom Brady and the Patriots in overtime, and the Chiefs remain unbeaten with a hard-fought win over the Texans at Arrowhead. We break down these games and more in our weekly NFL segment.
College Football Talk: In our college football portion of the program, we recap some of the big contests from this past week, and take a look at the initial release of the BCS standings. Which teams currently have the path of least resistance to the national title game, and which one-loss club has the best chance at getting back in the national championship picture? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We share our thoughts on manager Jim Leyland calling it a career with the Tigers, and reflect on the passing of longtime Titans owner Bud Adams.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's return edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we're talking Major League Baseball playoffs, top 25 action from Saturday's slate of college football games, and the week that was in the NFL!

ALCS/NLCS Chat: Both League Championship Series are in full swing, with the Cardinals, Dodgers, Red Sox and Tigers all vying for postseason supremacy. We recap the previous games from both series, and discuss how each may play out moving forward.
College Football Top 25: There were a plethora of interesting matchups in college football over the weekend, including Georgia playing host to Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas renewing the Red River Rivalry, and Florida traveling to Baton Rouge to take on LSU. We break down these games and more in our top 25 segment.
NFL Talk: Week 6 in the NFL saw the 107th meeting between the Cowboys and Redskins, the Packers looking for their first win in Baltimore since 1974, and the Saints and Patriots engaging in an instant classic. Who came out on top and why? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss Houston fans openly cheering an injury to Matt Schaub, as well as the chances of Timothy Bradley finally getting a shot at Floyd Mayweather following his split decision win over Juan Manuel Marquez Saturday night in Las Vegas!

All this and more in this week's return edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview Major League Baseball's postseason, recap the top 25 matchups in college football, and discuss the marquee games from Week 4 in the NFL!

MLB Playoff Preview: With the field now cut to ten teams still in the hunt for the Commissioner's Trophy, we look at the clubs still standing entering Major League Baseball's postseason, and break down each series on the road to the divisional round.
FBS Top 25 Action: There were plenty of big games in college football over the weekend, including Wisconsin facing off with Ohio State, LSU taking on Georgia, and Alabama hosting Ole Miss. We discuss these games and more in our top 25 college football recap.
NFL Week 4: The fourth week of the NFL season saw several interesting matchups on the schedule, including the Texans hosting the unbeaten Seahawks, the Dolphins traveling to New Orleans to face the Saints in a battle of two 3-0 teams, and the Falcons playing host to the undefeated Patriots on Sunday Night Football. We look at these games and others in our Week 4 review.

Plus:

We debate the three worst teams in the NFL a month into the season, and discuss Lane Kiffin's dismissal from USC following a 62-41 beat down at the hands of Arizona State Saturday night!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss MLB's impending postseason, blowouts in college football and the week that was in the NFL!

Playoff Baseball Draws Nearer: With Major League Baseball's regular season entering its final week, who will be the teams to beat in this year's postseason, and which clubs have the potential to surprise some people come October? We'll tell you.
Demolition Week in College Football: Multiple teams hung over 70 points on the opposition this weekend, including Miami, Ohio State and Louisville. While payouts for these games help smaller schools, is there a time when the superior team should take their foot off the gas? Hear our take.
Week 3 in the NFL: The third week of the NFL season saw several intriguing matchups on the schedule, such as Andy Reid's return to Philadelphia as head coach of the Chiefs, the Dolphins seeking a surprise 3-0 start with a win over Matt Ryan and the Falcons, and the Colts traveling to San Francisco to take on Andrew Luck's former college coach Jim Harbaugh. We break down these games and more in our weekly recap segment.

Plus:

We share our thoughts on Cardinals' safety Rashad Johnson losing part of a finger on his left hand in a loss to the Saints on Sunday, and the NFL's latest proposal in its efforts to expand the regular season to 18 games!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap Saturday's pay-per-view matchup between Floyd "Money" Mayweather and Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, the Crimson Tide's shootout win over Johnny Manziel and the Aggies, and the marquee games from Week 2 in the NFL!

Easy Money Mayweather: Floyd Mayweather put on yet another boxing clinic over the weekend en route to a majority decision win over Canelo Alvarez. We discuss how "Money" made it look so easy, where he goes from here, and the controversial way the bout was scored by one judge in particular.
Revenge in College Station: Last season, "Johnny Football" and company shocked the Tide in Tuscaloosa, 29-24. On Saturday, Nick Saban's crew returned the favor on Texas A&M's home turf, winning a game dominated by the offenses, 49-42. Despite the loss, are the Aggies still in the national championship picture? Has the once vaunted Alabama defense become suspect? Hear our take.
NFL Week 2: The second week of the NFL season saw multiple big games on the schedule, including Denver traveling to New York for "Manning Bowl III," and the defending NFC champion San Francisco 49ers going up against the Seahawks in the madhouse that is CenturyLink Field. We break down these games and more in our Week 2 NFL recap.

Plus:

With baseball's regular season nearing an end, we look at the playoff races and decide which teams will punch their tickets to the postseason!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the marquee matchups from Week 1 in the NFL, discuss some of the big upsets in college football from this past weekend, and take an in-depth look into Saturday's much-anticipated bout between Floyd "Money" Mayweather and Saul "Canelo" Alvarez!

Opening Week in the NFL: The first week of the 2013 NFL season saw several big matchups across the board, including a rematch of last season's wild divisional playoff game between the Ravens and Broncos, the Packers and 49ers renewing their heated rivalry, and the Giants and Cowboys getting it on in Big D. We break down all these games and more in our Week 1 recap.
College Football Chat: Even though the college football season is only a few weeks in, Saturday gave us our first "Upset Weekend" of 2013, with multiple ranked teams falling to unranked opponents. The Gators ran into a Hurricane in Miami, the Longhorns were ran over by BYU, and the Trojans played host to Washington State; but no-showed to their own party. We discuss these games and more in our college football segment.
Mayweather-Alvarez Preview: This Saturday night, "Money" versus "Canelo" will finally go down at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Will Mayweather leave Nevada with his unblemished record still intact, or will his reign of dominance in the world of boxing finally come to an end? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss the allegations made by Sports Illustrated against the Oklahoma State football program, and share some of our favorite memories from the newest class of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the 2013 NFL campaign with an in-depth look at each of the 32 teams, as well as MVP and playoff predictions!

AFC Rundown: Can Joe Flacco and the Baltimore Ravens repeat? Will the Denver Broncos bounce back? Are the New England Patriots still legitimate Super Bowl contenders? Have Matt Schaub and the Houston Texans peaked? Will the Cincinnati Bengals and Indianapolis Colts continue to improve? Just a few of the topics we're hitting on in our AFC segment.
NFC Outlook: Are the San Francisco 49ers the team to beat? Can RG3 and the Washington Redskins take the next big step? Are the Seattle Seahawks primed for a Super Bowl run? Will the Green Bay Packers and Atlanta Falcons return to form following disappointing playoff losses? We tackle these questions and then some in our NFC forecast.

Plus:

We name the playoff qualifiers from both conferences and give our picks for this year's Most Valuable Player!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we break down the upcoming college football season, and discuss the teams and players that are sure to make the 2013 campaign one to remember!

Roll Tide, Take 3?: Alabama enters the season as the clear-cut favorites to win it all. Can Nick Saban's bunch stay focused enough to complete the unprecedented task at hand, or will the pressure to become the first team in college football history to win 3-straight national championships be too much to overcome? One of us thinks they can do it. The other, not so much.
Also in the Mix: The Crimson Tide are clearly the team to beat, but several others have a legitimate chance at taking the Coaches' Trophy home at season's end. Are David Shaw's Cardinal poised for a breakout year? Can the Ducks excel minus Chip Kelly? Will Aaron Murray's decision to return to Georgia for his senior season pay off? Hear our take.
This Year's Cinderella: Notre Dame came out of nowhere last season to make a BCS title run. Which teams in 2013 have the potential to make a similar run of their own? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We name our favorites for the Heisman Trophy and give our predictions for who will meet in the Rose Bowl for the BCS National Championship Game!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during a future broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the ongoing saga between Alex Rodriguez and Major League Baseball, new details in the Ryan Braun suspension, and Tim Tebow's lackluster preseason with the Patriots!

A-Rod Frenzy at Fenway: On Sunday, Alex Rodriguez saw the first pitch of his plate appearance from Ryan Dempster sail behind him, the next two come far inside, and the fourth hit him on the upper arm. What ensued was nothing short of theatrical. Joe Girardi being the only one tossed, revenge for Rodriguez in the sixth with a home run, and denial by Dempster and skipper John Farrell in the post-game interviews. All this transpiring as information continues to be leaked in Major League Baseball's case against A-Rod. What should we make of all this? We break it down.
Another Hit on Braun's Already Bad Reputation: Reports have surfaced that former league MVP Ryan Braun told multiple stars around baseball before spring training last season that the man who collected his urine that tested positive for synthetic testosterone was an anti-Semitic Cubs fan, in hopes the players would stick up for him following an expected suspension. With the fallen star rumored to be ready to acknowledge he doped and offer a public apology, should anyone care what he has to say? Hear our take.
Will Tebow Make the Team?: Tim Tebow has looked horrendous in New England's first two preseason games, which begs the question; will he make the final roster? We take a closer look at Tebow's brief stint with the Pats and discuss the possibilities moving forward.

Plus:

We debate the potential impact of losing Von Miller for an extended period of time has on Denver's Super Bowl aspirations, and hit on recent comments made by Floyd Mayweather in regards to Manny Pacquiao!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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This week, we're turning the Bleacher Briefings podcast over to you, the listener, in a special email edition of the show. Some of the headline topics include; the relevance of NFL preseason games, Chip Kelly's chances of succeeding in the pros, and Jack Clark's PED allegations against Albert Pujols!

Here's the complete list of emails covered:

"How much stock do you guys put into preseason games? Lots of people say they don't mean anything, while others think they can be a sign of things to come in the regular season."
"RGIII is returning to full 11-on-11 team drills this week and says there's no doubt he will be starting Week 1 of the season. If you were Mike Shanahan, would you start Griffin or Kirk Cousins in Week 1?"
"Will the Chiefs live up to the playoff hype?"
"It was just a preseason game and he had limited touches, but Chris Johnson looked like the Chris Johnson of old against the Redskins. Do you think he can get back to his CJ2K days this season?"
"Do you think Chip Kelly will fail in the NFL?"
"What did you think of Bernie Kosar's comments during last week's game between the Browns and Rams?"
"Mariano Rivera blew his third save opportunity in a row on Sunday. Is this cause for concern?"
"Will the Red Sox blow it again in September, similar to what we saw a few seasons ago?"
"What do you think about Jack Clark being fired from his radio gig for his on-air PED comments about Albert Pujols?"
"Last week a statue in New York of Jackie Robinson was vandalized with offensive words and symbols, and now we are hearing that Adam Jones had a banana thrown in his direction during a game over the weekend. I thought we were past this type of stuff in this country. What do you guys think?"
"More surprised by Jason Dufner winning the PGA Championship or Tiger Woods finishing tied for 40th?"

All this and more in this listener email edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, the controversy surrounding NFL wide receiver Riley Cooper, the red-hot play of several teams on the diamond of late, and Major League Baseball's unprecedented single-day ruling against PED users!

HOF Class of 2013: On Saturday, Canton officially welcomed seven new members to its elite fraternity. We look back at some of the highlights of the induction ceremony, and share who our favorites of this class were to watch perform on Sundays.
Cooper's Gaffe: Last week, video surfaced of Riley Cooper making a racist remark while at a concert back in June. We examine the multitude of layers surrounding this story, and discuss where Cooper and the Eagles go from here.
MLB Talk: We look at some of the teams that have been playing lights out on the diamond over the course of the last several weeks, and break down Major League Baseball lowering the proverbial boom on 13 players for violating the league's drug policy.

Plus:

We discuss the NCAA investigating whether Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel received compensation for signing autographs, if Tiger Woods is the favorite to win the PGA Championship following his performance at the Bridgestone Invitational, and if the Heat made a wise decision in signing former No. 1 overall pick Greg Oden to a two-year deal!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the ongoing saga between Alex Rodriguez and Major League Baseball, Johnny Manziel's controversial summer, and big name player injuries in the first week of NFL training camp!

A-Rod's Uncertain Future in Major League Baseball: Reports are circulating that MLB officials have told Alex Rodriguez they are preparing to suspend him for the remainder of this season and all of next year for his ties to a biogenesis lab in Florida. It is also being said that if A-Rod fights the penalty, baseball will seek a lifetime ban for the 14-time All-Star. Why is Major League Baseball targeting Rodriguez specifically, and what will the final outcome be? We break it down.
Johnny Be Bad: Already this summer, Heisman Trophy winner Johnny Manziel has had run-ins with the law, took jabs at his own school via Twitter, dozed off during meetings at Peyton Manning's quarterback camp, and most recently, attended enemy territory frat parties in Austin, Texas. What is the 20-year-old QB thinking, and what could the potential repercussions be for his actions? We'll tell you.
Big Names Go Down in Week 1 of NFL Training Camp: The opening week of training camp in the National Football League saw the likes of Dan Koppen, Jeremy Maclin and Dennis Pitta lost for the year with season-ending injuries. Which injured player will be the hardest for his respective team to replace, and what are some of the reasons behind major injuries during camp? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss the Eagles' decision to retire quarterback Donovan McNabb's number and whether or not he's Hall of Fame worthy, wide receiver Greg Jennings taking shots at former teammate Aaron Rodgers, and David Ortiz losing his cool over the weekend in Baltimore!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Phil Mickelson's spectacular final round performance en route to his first ever British Open title, the legacy of 13-time All-Star Mariano Rivera, and the 65-game suspension handed down to Ryan Braun by Major League Baseball!

Lefty's Round For the Ages: Phil Mickelson shot a 5-under 66 on Sunday to rally from five strokes back and win his first ever British Open championship. How did the 5-time major winner manage to overcome both the competition and fierce winds of Muirfield Golf Links to accomplish the feat? We break it down.
Super Mariano: We look back at the stellar career of New York Yankee great Mariano Rivera, and tell you all the things that have come to make him the greatest closer in the history of baseball.
Braun's Luck Runs Out: Last year, Ryan Braun avoided a 50-game suspension for use of PEDs on what was essentially a technicality. On Monday, his luck finally ran out, as Bud Selig announced the former NL MVP was banned from play for the remainder of the season for his ties to a biogenesis lab in Florida. What does this do to Braun's image moving forward, and will the steroid era ever truly come to an end in Major League Baseball? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss whether or not Jason Garrett is really on the hot seat heading into this season, regardless of what owner Jerry Jones is saying publicly, and debate how right (or wrong) ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski's 2013 QB rankings are!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the first half of the Major League Baseball season, debate whether or not Dwight Howard is a "winner" despite being ringless after 9 seasons, and discuss Mike and Maurkice Pouncey's decision to publicly support former Florida Gators teammate Aaron Hernandez!

MLB at the Break: Major League Baseball has officially hit the midway point, with the 84th edition of the Midsummer Classic set for Tuesday night. We take a look back at the first half of the season, discuss the road ahead, and name our front-runners for awards across the board.
Winner With No Chips?: During an interview over the weekend, Dwight Howard stated that if he doesn't win a ring, he's "still a winner." After nearly a decade in the NBA and a zero in the 'titles won' column, is that really the case? We'll tell you.
Pouncey Brothers Raise Eyebrows: On Saturday, NFL centers Mike and Maurkice Pouncey were seen wearing "Free Hernandez" caps while at a birthday party in Miami. With the former Pro Bowler currently behind bars as the primary suspect in the death of Odin Lloyd, how big of a mistake was it for the brothers to publicly show support for their former college teammate and friend? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss the emotional impact that the verdict in the George Zimmerman trial had on the world of sports, as well as why so many professional athletes felt a connection with Trayvon Martin.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the NBA Draft, discuss the blockbuster trade between the Boston Celtics and Brooklyn Nets, review the final teams still in play for Dwight Howard's services next season, and examine how the Pittsburgh Pirates have come to own the best record in baseball!

NBA Draft Recap: This year's draft saw tons of surprising transactions, with teams attempting to make moves to better themselves for the future. Did the Cavs make the right decision taking Anthony Bennett with the No. 1 overall pick? Who were the big winners and losers from last Thursday night? We break it down.
Celtics-Nets Trade/Howard Makes His Rounds: Boston and Brooklyn pulled off a major trade last Thursday which sent Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett to the Borough in exchange for a plethora of players and future draft picks. Did the Celtics make the right call shipping their star players out, and was the move enough to make the Nets a serious contender in the Eastern Conference next season? Also, Dwight Howard is meeting with various teams this week to decide where he'll call home for the foreseeable future. Are the Lakers the front-runners to land him? Money aside, of the teams still in the mix, which would be the best fit for the 7-time All-Star center? We'll tell you.
Best Team in Baseball?: As we near the midway point of the season, the best record in baseball doesn't belong to the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers or San Francisco Giants. It belongs to the Pittsburgh Pirates, a club that hasn't finished above .500 in 20 years. What is manager Clint Hurdle doing to get the best out of this bunch, and can we expect them to still be in the playoff picture by season's end? Hear our take.

Plus:

We debate whether or not a team should sign free agent center Andrew Bynum if he refuses to work out prior, and analyze defenseman Seth Jones falling to the Nashville Predators at No. 4 in the NHL Draft!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap both the NBA and Stanley Cup Finals, and discuss the ongoing police investigation centering around Pro Bowl tight end Aaron Hernandez in the death of semi-professional football player Odin Lloyd!

Twice as Nice in Miami: Last Thursday, the Heat closed out a hard-fought 7-game series with the San Antonio Spurs to win their second-consecutive Larry O'Brien Trophy. How did LeBron and company manage to pull it off? Hear our take.
A Stanley Cup For the Windy City: Trailing 2-1 late in Game 6, the Blackhawks pulled off an improbable rally Monday night, scoring two goals in the final 1:16 of regulation to win 3-2 and secure the fifth Stanley Cup in the history of the franchise. What adjustments did Chicago make late in the series to swing the momentum in their favor, and what mistakes did the Bruins make that ultimately led to their demise? We break it down.
Trouble For New England's Rainmaker: Last Tuesday, the body of semi-pro football player Odin Lloyd was found less than a mile from the residence of NFL tight end Aaron Hernandez, who has been at the center of a police murder investigation ever since. We review the timeline of events over the course of the last week, and discuss how Hernandez could have possibly put himself in this type of situation to begin with.

Plus:

We decide if the recently streaking Toronto Blue Jays are now serious playoff contenders in the AL East, and if the Los Angeles Clippers will be better next season with Doc Rivers at the controls!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss how Danny Green is making a name for himself in the NBA Finals, a potential trade between the Celtics and Clippers that could send head coach Doc Rivers to Los Angeles, and the Bruins bouncing back from a triple-overtime loss in Game 1 to take a 2-1 series lead on the Blackhawks in the Stanley Cup Finals!

Green With Envy: Danny Green has been shooting lights out from behind the arc in the NBA Finals, and his stellar play has paced San Antonio to a 3-2 series lead over the favored Heat. How are the Spurs getting Green so many open looks, and what adjustments must Miami make to contain him? We'll tell you.
Doc to the Clippers? Last week, talks began that could potentially send Kevin Garnett and Doc Rivers from the Boston Celtics to the Los Angeles Clippers in return for DeAndre Jordan and multiple draft picks. What are the odds of this trade actually happening, and if it doesn't, what does the immediate future hold for Rivers in Boston? Hear our take.
NHL Playoff Chat: Following a triple-overtime loss in Game 1, the Boston Bruins have responded by winning the next two games to take a 2-1 lead in the Stanley Cup Finals. How have the Bruins managed to seize control of the series, and what must the Blackhawks do to right the ship? We break it down.

Plus:

We discuss Phil Mickelson's legacy following another second place finish at the U.S. Open, and whether or not Major League Baseball should take steps to ensure the safety of their pitchers while on the mound!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Tim Tebow signing with Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots, the NBA Finals, as well as preview the 2013 Stanley Cup Finals!

Tebow to Foxboro: On Monday, former New York Jets quarterback Tim Tebow signed a two-year deal with the New England Patriots. Is this a good fit? What role will he play in the offense? Will he even make the team? We break it down.
NBA Finals Chat: Tied at one game apiece, what are the Spurs and Heat struggling with and excelling at so far in these Finals, and what type of adjustments must Gregg Popovich and Erik Spoelstra make in order for their team to gain control of the series? We'll tell you.
Stanley Cup Finals Preview: Two teams remain in the chase for Lord Stanley's Cup, with the Boston Bruins and Chicago Blackhawks now only four wins away from professional hockey's ultimate prize. Which goaltender is the hottest heading into the series? Which team's star players have been playing like stars in these playoffs, and which haven't? In the end, who hoists the Cup? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss the possibility of Major League Baseball suspending up to 20 players connected to the Miami-area clinic at the heart of the ongoing PED scandal, and the recent courtrooms antics of former NFL receiver Chad Johnson that earned him a 30-day jail sentence!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the NBA Finals, discuss the conference finals in the NHL playoffs, and break down all the angles of the highly-anticipated September bout between Floyd Mayweather and Canelo Alvarez!

NBA Championship Series Preview: The Miami Heat punched their ticket to their third-consecutive trip to the NBA Finals on Monday night, wrapping up a hard-fought 7-game series with the Indiana Pacers. Awaiting the Heat is a veteran-laced San Antonio Spurs squad who will have had nearly 10 days off by the time Game 1 tips off Thursday. What are the keys to success in this series for both clubs, and who will ultimately walk away with the Larry O'Brien Trophy? We'll tell you.
Stanley Cup Playoff Talk: The race for Lord Stanley's Cup in down to four teams, with the Blackhawks, Kings, Penguins and Bruins battling it out in the conference finals. Can Los Angeles and Pittsburgh rally from 0-2 deficits? Of the four teams remaining, which is playing the best hockey right now? Who will meet in the Finals? Hear our take.
Analyzing Mayweather-Alvarez: Last week, Floyd "Money" Mayweather announced that the second bout in his six-fight deal with Showtime would be against Saul "Canelo" Alvarez, who is unbeaten in 43 professional contests. Was this the right decision on Mayweather's part, and is Alvarez the man that will finally put an end to Floyd's reign as boxing's best pound-for-pound fighter? We break it down.

Plus:

We discuss Gordon Gee's statements in regards to the SEC, Louisville, and the University of Notre Dame, and examine the likelihood of Grant Hill eventually being named to the Hall of Fame!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the suspension of starting quarterback Everett Golson at the University of Notre Dame, the controversy surrounding the newest athletic director at Rutgers, and the conference finals in the NBA playoffs!

Golson Out in South Bend: Word quickly spread over the weekend of the sudden suspension of quarterback Everett Golson at Notre Dame due to "poor academic judgment." What kind of effect will this have on the Irish this season, and who can we expect to step up under center for coach Brian Kelly? Hear our take.
More Bad Press For Rutgers: Less than two months removed from the termination of both their men's head basketball coach and athletic director, Rutgers University is back in the news for all the wrong reasons. This time, over reports that their newly hired AD, Julie Hermann, may have verbally abused her players during her coaching days at Tennessee. How did this information manage to slip through the cracks during the school's interview process, and can anything be done at this point to rectify the situation? We'll tell you.
NBA Playoff Talk: One matchup in the conference finals has played out as expected, with the Heat and Pacers going toe-to-toe in a highly-competitive physical affair; while the other is already over, with the Spurs making short work of the upstart Grizzlies in a 4-game sweep. We break down the keys for the remainder of the Miami-Indiana series, and explore how San Antonio managed to punch their ticket to the NBA Finals for the fifth time in franchise history.

Plus:

We discuss Phil Jackson's comments to Time Magazine in regards to what one player he would take if he were starting a team, the hiring of Jeff Hornacek as coach of the Phoenix Suns, and Don Mattingly's future with the Los Angeles Dodgers!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we dissect the conference finals in the NBA playoffs, break down the sad state of Major League Baseball in the city of Los Angeles, and discuss the best players still on the market in NFL free agency!

NBA's Final Four Set: The hunt for the Larry O'Brien Trophy is down to four teams, with the Spurs, Grizzlies, Pacers and Heat still in contention for professional basketball's ultimate prize. Can Memphis repeat previous playoff success against San Antonio? Does Indiana have any chance at knocking off the defending champs? We answer these questions and more in our NBA postseason chat.
Down and Out in Beverly Hills: Baseball is currently in a bad way in the city of Los Angeles, with both the Angels and Dodgers playing horribly a quarter of the way into the season. What's the deal with Josh Hamilton? Are Albert Pujols' best days behind him? Can Matt Kemp get back on track? Is Josh Beckett done? Can either club rebound and salvage some form of respectability out of this year? Hear our take.
Best Left on the NFL Open Market: With Dwight Freeney now heading to San Diego, the list of quality free agents still available is beginning to dwindle. However, there are several guys on the market that could have a big impact on a team if they're put in the right type of situation. We'll tell you who.

Plus:

We discuss coach Frank Vogel's comments in regards to the upcoming series between his Indiana Pacers and the Miami Heat, and share our thoughts as to why Miguel Cabrera doesn't get the type of attention he deserves from the media and fans of Major League Baseball!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we break down Tiger's impressive victory at the Players Championship on Sunday, the conference semi-finals in the NBA playoffs, and the improbable win by the Boston Bruins in Game 7 of their series versus the Toronto Maple Leafs!

Woods Captures Golf's Fifth Major: Tiger Woods capped off Mother's Day weekend with an impressive win at the Players Championship, taking home the trophy for only the second time in his illustrious career. What were the keys to victory, and what can we expect to see out of Tiger the remainder of the year? Hear our take.
NBA Conference Semis: Can the Knicks bounce back against the Pacers? Are the Bulls done? Will the upstart Warriors shock the Spurs? Are the Grizzlies the team to beat in the West? We answer these questions and more in our NBA conference semi-finals chat.
Bruins Win Miracle on Ice 2: On Monday, in Game 7 of their opening round series versus the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Boston Bruins overcame a 3-goal deficit in the final 11 minutes of regulation to force overtime, where they eventually won on a game-winner by Patrice Bergeron. How did Boston pull off this monumental rally, and what could Toronto have done differently to ensure the win? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss the bad blood between Sergio Garcia and Tiger Woods, and give our picks for the biggest surprises at the quarter mark of the Major League Baseball season!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we break down the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs, preview the conference semi-finals in the NBA postseason, and discuss how Floyd "Money" Mayweather made it look oh so easy in his welterweight title fight against Robert "The Ghost" Guerrero!

Stanley Cup Playoffs Begin: Only 16 teams remain alive in the quest for Lord Stanley's Cup, headlined by the Chicago Blackhawks and Pittsburgh Penguins as the top seeds in this year's tournament. What separates the men from the boys come playoff time in the NHL, and which teams have a shot to make a deep postseason run? Hear our take.
Conference Semi-Finals Preview: The NBA's playoff field has been cut in half, with just 8 teams still remaining in the hunt for the Larry O'Brien Trophy. Can the Chicago Bulls continue to surprise? Are the Memphis Grizzlies legit title contenders? Will Carmelo Anthony take his game to another level? We tackle these questions and more in our NBA postseason chat.
Easy Money For Mayweather: On Saturday night, Floyd Mayweather reminded the world why he is the best pound-for-pound fighter of this generation in a lopsided unanimous decision win over Robert Guerrero. How did Floyd manage to make it look so easy, and who is best suited to take on "Money" later this year? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss the controversy surrounding the Most Valuable Player Award in the NBA, and the surprisingly good starts of both the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees early on in the Major League Baseball season!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss major storylines from the NBA postseason, and recap the 2013 NFL Draft!

Drama Happens Here: The first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs have already seen the top-seed in the West lose their second-best player in Russell Westbrook, the Lakers' train-wreck of a season mercifully come to an end, and the coming-out party of scintillatingly smooth point guard Steph Curry. We discuss these storylines and more in our NBA playoff chat.
NFL Draft Recap: The annual NFL Draft concluded on Saturday, and as usual, it did not disappoint. We recap this year's gala event, and give our biggest winners and losers from the 3-day stay at Radio City Music Hall.
NBA Player Comes Out: On Monday, NBA center Jason Collins announced that he's gay in a story for Sports Illustrated, making him the first active player in one of the four major American professional team sports to openly come out. We share our thoughts on this monumental revelation.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the trade that sent cornerback Darrelle Revis from the New York Jets to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the opening round of the NBA playoffs, and the much-anticipated unification bout for the WBC and WBA light-middleweight titles between Saul "Canelo" Alvarez and Austin "No Doubt" Trout!

Revis Island Relocates: On Sunday, the Jets shipped star cornerback Darrelle Revis to Tampa Bay for the 13th overall pick in this year's draft and a conditional selection in 2014. Was this the right decision for New York, and which team got the better end of the deal? Hear our take.
NBA Playoff Chat: The quest for the Larry O'Brien Trophy tipped off Saturday, as only 16 teams remain in the chase for professional basketball's ultimate prize. Can the Celtics, Warriors and Hawks bounce back from Game 1 losses? Do the Bucks, Lakers or Rockets have any chance of pulling an upset? We answer these questions and more in our opening round playoff talk.
Alvarez-Trout Recap: On Saturday night, Saul Alvarez defeated Austin Trout by unanimous decision to unify the WBC and WBA light-middleweight titles. We break down the bout and discuss the questionable manner in which the judges scored it.

Plus:

We share our thoughts in regards to athletes using social media networks, and decide which quarterback was the bigger bust between Ryan Leaf and JaMarcus Russell!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Adam Scott's thrilling victory over Angel Cabrera in sudden death at the Masters, the potential career-ending Achilles injury Kobe Bryant suffered in a win over the Golden State Warriors, and the red-hot play of the Atlanta Braves early on in the baseball season!

Aussie! Aussie! Aussie!: Adam Scott birdied the second hole of his sudden death playoff with Angel Cabrera on Sunday to claim his first Masters title, and in the process, became the first Australian-born player to ever don the coveted Green Jacket. How did Scott to pull it off? Hear our take.
Black Mamba Down: Superstar Kobe Bryant saw his season come to an abrupt end last week when a routine move on the hardwood blew out his Achilles. Assuming he can return, will Kobe be the same player, and what could the injury mean for the Los Angeles Lakers long-term? Our answers may surprise you.
Brave New World: Don't look now, but the Atlanta Braves are off to a smokin' hot start in the NL East. How is skipper Fredi Gonzalez getting the most out of this young group, and does Atlanta have enough hitting and overall pitching depth to hang with the loaded Washington Nationals over the course of a 162-game season? We break it all down.

Plus:

We discuss the Pittsburgh Steelers' decision to match the New England Patriots' offer sheet to wideout Emmanuel Sanders, and whether or not the hobbled San Antonio Spurs still have a legitimate chance to bring home the Larry O'Brien Trophy this season!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the NCAA Men's National Championship Game between the Louisville Cardinals and Michigan Wolverines, discuss the controversy surrounding Rutgers University and former men's basketball coach Mike Rice, and break down how Carmelo Anthony has the New York Knicks peaking just in time for the postseason!

Cardinals Roll in Atlanta: On Monday night, Rick Pitino's squad outlasted a very game Michigan team en route to the school's third national championship. How did Louisville pull it off, and what does the win mean for Pitino's coaching legacy? Hear our take.
Rice Out at Rutgers: Last week, video surfaced of men's basketball coach Mike Rice berating, pushing, kicking, cursing and throwing basketballs at his players. He has since been fired, but in way, that was just the beginning of the story. We discuss how the university failed its student-athletes, and whether or not more heads should roll as a result of the controversy.
Melo and the Red-Hot Knicks: Carmelo Anthony has been on fire of late, leading the Knicks to 12-consecutive wins in the process. What is New York doing that has them playing winning basketball, and what chance do they have of knocking off LeBron and the Heat if the teams meet in the playoffs? Our answers may surprise you.

Plus:

We share our thoughts on a report that was published last week alleging Auburn's football program paid players and altered grades during the 2010 national championship season, and what Robinson Cano's decision to leave Scott Boras and sign with Jay-Z's Roc Nation Sports means to the New York Yankees!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the Final Four in the NCAA Tournament, discuss how the 2013 Major League Baseball season could play out, and talk recent news from around the NFL!

And Then There Were Four: The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament is down to four teams, with Syracuse, Wichita State, Michigan and Louisville advancing to Atlanta for a shot at a national championship. How did these squads get here, and who will ultimately cut down the nets next Monday night? Hear our take.
2013 MLB Crystal Ball: The Major League Baseball season is officially underway, so we take a look at all six divisions and give you the teams to beat in each, and predict which clubs will be playing for the Commissioner's Trophy come October.
Around the NFL: What are our thoughts on Donovan McNabb's recent comments in regards to Tony Romo's new contract extension with Dallas? Is former Arizona quarterback Kevin Kolb the cure to Buffalo's losing ways? We tackle these topics in our NFL chat.

Plus:

We discuss the horrific leg injury that sophomore guard Kevin Ware suffered during Louisville's win over Duke in the Elite Eight, and compare it to other major injuries that have taken place throughout sports over the years.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Florida Gulf Coast's improbable run to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament, the red-hot Denver Nuggets surging in the Western Conference thanks to a 15-game winning streak, and Tiger Woods looking like the Tiger of old with the first major tourney of 2013 only weeks away!

The Eagles Have Landed: For the first time in NCAA history, a 15-seed has stormed into the Sweet 16, busting brackets open all across the land. How is Florida Gulf Coast, in their first appearance in the tournament, doing the impossible, and when will their unprecedented run come to an end? Hear our take.
The Other Hot Team in the NBA: While the Miami Heat have had all the headlines with their record-breaking streak, the Denver Nuggets have quietly been churning out win after win over the last month as well. How does George Karl have this team playing at such a high level without a bona fide superstar on the roster, and how big of a threat are the Nuggets to come out of the West? Our answers may surprise you.
Return of the Old Tiger?: Tiger Woods picked up his third win of the year on Monday, stirring up talks that the Tiger of old may finally be back. What all has transpired over the last year to get Tiger back on track, and is he now the favorite to win the Masters in two weeks? We break it down.

Plus:

We discuss the firings of Ben Howland at UCLA and Tubby Smith at Minnesota, and the extra curricular activity that took place between drivers Tony Stewart and Joey Logano following the Auto Club 400 Sprint Cup race on Sunday afternoon!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we break down the field for the NCAA Tournament and discuss the NFL's biggest winners and losers from the first week of free agency!

One Shinning Moment: The NCAA Tournament is officially set, with this year's field of 68 more unpredictable than ever before. Are the Cardinals worthy of the No. 1 overall seed? Will the Bulldogs be the first 1-seed to get bounced? Are the Hurricanes a legitimate threat to win it all? Have the Blue Devils been disrespected? We break it all down and tell you who to expect in Atlanta for the Final Four.
Free Agency Frenzy: Week 1 of free agency in the NFL saw plenty of big names find new homes, as teams try to make the moves necessary to compete in 2013. Who have the biggest winners been thus far, and which teams have fallen flat? Hear our take.
A Power Shift in the AFC?: With the defending Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens reeling this offseason, has the balance of power within the conference shifted over to the Denver Broncos with the acquisition of former New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker? Our answers may surprise you.

Plus:

We name possible Cinderella teams in the NCAA Tournament that could wreck your bracket, and weigh in on the proposed rule change in the NFL that would prohibit ball carriers from lowering their helmets into defenders!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the streaking Miami Heat, the full-blown brawl between Team Canada and Team Mexico at the World Baseball Classic, and Bernard Hopkins winning the IBF light-heavyweight title at the age of 48!

On Fire in Miami: On Sunday, the Heat knocked off the Pacers to record their 18th-straight win. What makes this team so tough to beat (besides the obvious: LeBron), and how much longer can this red-hot streak last? We break it down.
World Baseball Brawl: Things got ugly at the WBC on Saturday, when a late-inning bunt prompted an all-out war between Team Canada and Team Mexico. Should the rules be changed to prevent future altercations, and what did the brawl do for the World Baseball Classic in general? Our answers may surprise you.
Not Bad For an Old Man: Friday night, 48-year-old Bernard Hopkins schooled 31-year-old Tavoris Cloud in the art of boxing and scored a 12-round unanimous decision victory to win the IBF light-heavyweight title. After all these years, how is Hopkins still getting the job done, and who might he take on next? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss whether it was the Seahawks or 49ers who got the best bang for the buck in their moves to acquire receivers Percy Harvin and Anquan Boldin, and in a word, we describe DeAndre Jordan's ridiculous dunk over Brandon Knight in the Clippers-Pistons game Sunday night!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the madness before the madness in NCAA basketball, news from around the NBA, and Joe Flacco's lucrative new deal with the Baltimore Ravens!

NCAA Talk: Are the Gonzaga Bulldogs truly worthy of their No. 1 ranking? Who is the one team that nobody wants to see come tournament time? How good are the Duke Blue Devils now that forward Ryan Kelly is back in the lineup? We answer all these questions and more.
Around the NBA: Kobe Bryant is playing like he's 25-years-old again, Tony Parker is out for the next month, and Magic Johnson offers LeBron James a million dollars to enter next year's dunk contest. We break it all down.
Payday For Flacco: On Monday, Joe Flacco signed a deal that makes him the highest paid quarterback in NFL history. Is the Super Bowl MVP worth the money, and what does the deal mean both long and short term for the Ravens? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss whether or not court-storming should be banned in college basketball, and if the Philadelphia District Attorney's Office should investigate Andrew Bynum for possible fraud!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss moves at the NBA trade deadline (or lack thereof), reports that 49er quarterback Alex Smith will have a new home next season, and Floyd Mayweather's lucrative new deal with Showtime Sports!

Lots of Talk Signifying Nothing: Several big names were rumored to be headed elsewhere, but the NBA trade deadline came and went last Thursday with little to no movement league-wide. Why did the marquee players stay put, and of the few moves that were made, which was the best? Hear our take.
Smith on the Move?: Reports are circulating that the San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs have a deal in place that would send quarterback Alex Smith to Arrowhead next season. Is this a good fit for the former No. 1 overall pick? We'll tell you.
A New Home For Mayweather: Last week, Floyd "Money" Mayweather announced that he was leaving HBO after 16 years for an enormous deal with Showtime Sports. What does the move mean both long and short term, and in the grand scheme of things, was it the right move to make? Our answers may surprise you.

Plus:

We discuss the recent hot play of the Lakers (even in the midst of constant controversy), the Pats and Tom Brady agreeing to a 3-year contract extension through 2017, and Danica Patrick's surprising top 10 finish at Daytona!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss All-Star Weekend in the NBA, the passing of Lakers owner Jerry Buss, and Danica Patrick winning the pole for the Daytona 500!

NBA All-Star Weekend Recap: In Houston, Kyrie Irving had a coming-out party of sorts, Chris Paul put on a show, and Kobe got the better of LeBron down the stretch of the All-Star Game. We recap the festive weekend that was in the NBA.
The Passing of a Legendary Owner: On Monday, longtime Los Angeles Lakers owner Jerry Buss passed away following a year-long battle with cancer. We take a look back at his historic tenure as team owner, and discuss how important Buss was to both the Lakers and the league as a whole.
Danica Takes the Pole: On Sunday, Danica Patrick won the pole for the Daytona 500, and in the process, became the first woman to secure the top spot for any race in NASCAR's premier circuit. What does this mean for Danica moving forward, and where can we expect her to finish in the big race? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We discuss Cal head basketball coach Mike Montgomery's shove of guard Allen Crabbe in a win over USC on Sunday, and give our picks for the NBA's Most Valuable Player at the midway point of the season!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we take an in-depth look at the 2012-13 NHL season, discuss LeBron's torrid shooting of late, and with Michael Jordan's 50th birthday only days away, break down his legacy and overall importance to the game of basketball!

The Puck Stops Here: Now that the 2012-13 campaign is off and running, we discuss the teams and players that will make this season one to remember in the NHL. Who are the serious contenders for the Stanley Cup? Which teams could surprise? What players must come up big? We'll tell you.
LeBron's Red-Hot Hand: Over the last 5 games, LeBron James has been on fire, shooting an astonishing 71% from the field. What's gotten into LBJ? Can he keep this torrid shooting up? And if the Heat are at full-strength once the playoffs begin, can anyone derail their quest for a second-consecutive championship? Our answers may surprise you.
50 For MJ: With "His Airness" turning 50 this Sunday, we're looking back at his historic career and putting all his accomplishments in perspective. What separates Jordan from all other players before or since? Can LeBron James eventually surpass MJ as the greatest ever? Hear our take.

Plus:

We share our all-time favorite Jordan moments, discuss Indiana remaining #1 in the country even after last week's set back to Illinois, and debate whether or not the Eagles have made a mistake by re-signing Michael Vick!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap Super Bowl XLVII between the Ravens and 49ers, discuss the winners of the NFL regular season awards, and break down the Hall of Fame class of 2013!

Super Bowl Review: In a roller coaster affair, the Baltimore Ravens held off a furious rally by the San Francisco 49ers to win Super Bowl XLVII by a final score of 34-31. What were the keys to the game, and what ultimately led to a Baltimore victory? Hear our take.
NFL Honors Show: On Saturday, the National Football League handed out their regular season awards, and needless to say, there were some surprises. Which winners were deserving and which were questionable? We'll tell you.
Class of 2013: The NFL Hall of Fame class of 2013 is full of great names, including Cris Carter, Warren Sapp and Bill Parcells. We discuss the newest members into pro football's most exclusive club, and give our picks for the most deserving players that didn't receive the call.

Plus:

We select the best commercials from Super Sunday, and discuss which team from this year's Super Bowl has the best chance at a return trip to the big game next season!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview Super Bowl XLVII between the 49ers and Ravens, discuss Joe Flacco's status as an elite quarterback, Alex Smith's best bet for next season, and the fate of the Celtics now that Rajon Rondo is done for the year!

Super Bowl Preview: We know how both teams got to this point, but what must they do in order to hoist the Lombardi Trophy Sunday night? We break down the keys to the game, tell you who has the advantage at each position, and give our predictions for how Super Bowl XLVII will play out.
Flacco's Elite Status: With a win on Sunday, does Joe Flacco officially graduate to elite quarterback status, or is he already there? We put this much debated question to rest once and for all.
Best Fit For Smith: It has been reported that quarterback Alex Smith will ask the 49ers to release him following the Super Bowl. What are some possible landing spots for Smith, and what would be the best fit for his particular skill set? Also, will San Francisco just drop him, or are they going to want to use him for trade bait later down the line? Hear our take.

Plus:

We give our picks for the greatest Super Bowl ever, and discuss the future of the Celtics now that Rajon Rondo is done for the season!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the Conference Championship Games in the NFL, and discuss the controversy hanging over former Notre Dame linebacker and Heisman finalist Manti Te'o!

Conference Championship Recap: The Conference Championship Round in the NFL saw both teams that were eliminated in the same round last year redeem themselves in a big way the second time around. How exactly did the 49ers and Ravens manage to punch their tickets to Super Bowl XLVII? We'll tell you.
Te'o's Character Shattered?: Last week it was reveled that Manti's Te'o's "girlfriend" who supposedly died of leukemia back in September, never really existed. So the question is, was Te'o an innocent victim in an elaborate hoax, or the mastermind behind the sham? Hear our take.
The Passing of Two Greats: On Saturday, former Cardinals outfielder Stan Musial and former Orioles manager Earl Weaver passed away. We reflect on their importance to the game and the lasting legacies they leave behind.

Plus:

We give some early keys to victory for both the 49ers and Ravens in the big game, and share our thoughts on the ongoing "retirement tour" of Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the Divisional Round of the NFL postseason, preview the Conference Championship Game matchups, and break down how the BBWAA handled this year's Hall of Fame voting!

Divisional Round Review: Round 2 of the NFL playoffs saw the Ravens shock Peyton and the Broncos, Colin Kaepernick have his way with the Packers, Matt Ryan score the first postseason win of his career, and the Pats hang 40+ on the Texans for the second time this season. Hear our take.
NFL's Final 4: The race for the Lombardi Trophy has come down to the 49ers, Falcons, Ravens and Patriots. What are the keys to each Conference Championship Game, and who will ultimately meet in New Orleans for Super Bowl XLVII? Our answers may surprise you.
None to the Hall: Last week, steroid-tainted stars Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens and Sammy Sosa were denied entry into baseball's Hall of Fame, with voters failing to elect any candidates for only the second time in 40 years. Was this decision fair or foul? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We debate whether or not former Braves outfielder Dale Murphy is Hall of Fame worthy, and if the Ravens have made a big mistake by poking the Patriots with a proverbial stick just days before their AFC title game matchup!

All this more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the BCS Championship Game and Wild Card Round of the NFL playoffs, and preview this weekend's Divisional Round matchups!

The Tide Rolls: Alabama made short work of Notre Dame in the BCS Championship Game, throttling the Irish by a final score of 42-14. Just how good is this Crimson Tide team compared to other college football dynasties, and what is Nick Saban's legacy as of right now? We'll tell you.
Wild Card Recap: The opening round of the NFL playoffs saw the Texans get back on track, the Ravens show flashes of their former self, the Packers finally figure out Adrian Peterson, and the Seahawks bottle up RG3. We break it all down.
Divisional Round Preview: Can the Ravens and Texans win on the road as heavy underdogs? Can the Packers avenge their early season loss to the 49ers? Can Matt Ryan finally pick up his first career postseason win? Hear our take.

Plus:

Our thoughts on reports of heated exchanges between Kobe Bryant and Dwight Howard over the last week, and in a word, we describe Jadeveon Clowney's helmet-jarring hit on Vincent Smith in the Outback Bowl!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we closeout the NFL's 2012 regular season, preview the Wild Card matchups, and break down two huge streaks running simultaneously in the NBA!

Week 17 in the NFL: The final week saw playoff spots clinched, postseason hopes dashed, and head coaches and general managers shown the door by the boatload. We recap all this and more.
Wild Card Round: First-round games include the Ravens taking on the upstart Colts, the Texans hosting the Bengals for the second-straight postseason, the Vikings going at it with the Packers for the second-straight week, only this time -- in Lambeau, and two of the top rookie QBs in the league going head-to-head when the Redskins host the Seahawks. Which teams advance and which are one-and-done? We'll tell you.
Two Very Different Streaks: The Clippers and Bobcats have (had) two headline grabbing streaks going in the NBA -- at the same time! We discuss how Los Angeles has managed to put together a 17-game winning streak, and how Charlotte (until Monday) managed to go winless for a month.

Plus:

We answer some listener email true/false questions in regards to the NFL season and playoffs, and give our take as to what the "Games of the Year" were from 2012!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we're talking NFL, NFL, and more NFL, as we break down the key games from Week 16, and lay out all the possible playoff scenarios heading into the final week of the season!

The Week That Was: Week 16 saw the Falcons clinch home-field throughout, the Steelers get bounced from postseason play altogether, and the Giants continue their late season free fall. We cover these teams and many others in our NFL recap.
Possible Playoff Scenarios: The AFC side is set as far as teams go, but who will end up with what seed? And over on the NFC side of things, which teams currently on the outside looking in still have a shot to gain a playoff berth? Hear our thoughts.
More NFL Talk: Despite his team's struggles, how impressive has Calvin Johnson's season been? What teams must have balance to achieve postseason success? Could Michael Vick return to the Eagles next year if he has a solid performance subbing for an injured Nick Foles on Sunday? We answer these questions and more.

Plus:

We share our take on Tim Tebow asking the Jets to remove him from their Wildcat package, and tell you which team from each conference is the one that nobody wants to see in the playoffs!

All this and more in this week's Christmas edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss players on the move this Major League Baseball offseason, the NBA season a quarter of the way in, and the week that was in the NFL!

MLB Offseason: Last week, Josh Hamilton, the biggest name on the free agent market, signed with the Los Angeles Angels. Was this a good move for the team? More importantly, was this a good move for Hamilton? We break down this signing and others from the Major League Baseball offseason.
NBA Report: A quarter of the way through the NBA season, who is the best team in the league? Who's the worst? If the season ended today, who would be the MVP? We answer these questions and more in our NBA quarter report.
NFL Week in Review: Week 15 saw the Ravens continue to head south, the Redskins continue to head north, the Giants get skunked in Atlanta, and the Patriots drop a game in the second half of the season for the first time since 2009. We discuss these games and others in our Week 15 NFL recap.

Plus:

Extended NFL talk -- Are the Seahawks really legit? Who will win the NFC East? Can Adrian Peterson win the MVP Award if the Vikings fail to make the postseason? Hear our take.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Johnny Manziel winning the Heisman Trophy, Juan Manuel Marquez finally taking out Manny Pacquiao, and Week 14 in the NFL!

Manziel's Moment: On Saturday, "Johnny Football" became the first freshman ever to take home the Heisman Memorial Trophy. So was Manziel the right pick, or did the voters get it wrong? Hear out take.
Marquez Drops the Hammer: Pacquiao-Marquez IV came to an abrupt end Saturday night, with Marquez knocking Manny out cold late in the 6th Round. What does the end result mean to both fighters, and did it end any chances of us seeing Pacquiao-Mayweather somewhere down the line? We'll tell you.
NFL Week 14 Recap: On Sunday, the Redskins rallied late, the Falcons fell flat, and the Vikings continued their surprising playoff push. We discuss these teams and many more in our NFL week in review.

Plus:

We break down the best teams in the NFC, and in NBA talk, try to decide exactly which team is off to the more surprising start -- the Lakers, or Knicks?

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss David Stern coming down on San Antonio for resting players, the Crimson Tide punching their ticket to the BCS Championship Game, and Week 13 in the National Football League!

Stern Flexes His Muscles: Last Thursday, Gregg Popovich decided to give his star veteran players the night off against the Heat -- and commissioner David Stern had a big problem with it. Did the commish cross the line when he fined the Spurs $250,000, or was he justified in doing so? Hear our take.
The Tide Rises Again: On Saturday, Alabama knocked off Georgia in the SEC Championship Game, and in the process, earned the right to play for a second-consecutive national title. How did they pull it off? We'll tell you.
NFL Week in Review: Week 13 saw Drew Brees' record touchdown steak come to an end, the Ravens lose at home to the Steelers and their third-string quarterback, and Andrew Luck rally the Colts to yet another late-game win. We discuss these games and more in our Week 13 recap.

Plus:

Wanna know who's winning the Heisman Trophy and which bowl games will be worth watching? You've come to the right place. We break it all down.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the wild turn of events that took place Saturday in college football, recap Week 11 in the NFL, and preview the 2012-13 NCAA basketball season!

College Football Madness: On Saturday, the top 2 teams in the country fell, shooting the Fighting Irish to the top of the polls and giving new life to several SEC teams in their quest to play in the BCS Championship Game. We recap the wild weekend that was in college football.
Week 11 in the NFL: Sunday must have been designated rally day in the NFL, as the Cowboys, Packers and Texans all came back late to pull out big wins. We discuss these games and more in our Week 11 review.
College Basketball Preview: Are the Cody Zeller-led Hoosiers truly the team to beat? Can Kentucky, Kansas, or Louisville ascend to the top? Will a sleeper team such as UNLV or Tennessee make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament? We answer these questions and more in our college basketball preview.

Plus:

Who is currently the front-runner for the NFL's Most Valuable Player Award? We take an in-depth look at the MVP race, and tell you who we believe will ultimately take home the hardware.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Texas A&M's colossal upset of #1 Alabama and its impact on the BCS, the Lakers firing coach Mike Brown after only 5 games, and Week 10 in the NFL!

Johnny Be Good: On Saturday night, freshman quarterback Johnny Manziel led the Aggies to a shocking win over the Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa. We tell you how A&M managed to pull it off, and what the loss means to Alabama's national championship aspirations.
End of the Line For Brown: After a 1-4 start, the Lakers decided to show coach Mike Brown the door. Even more surprising, they decided to replace him with Mike D'Antoni rather than bring back the "Zen Master" Phil Jackson. Did Los Angeles make the right decision -- or a big mistake? Hear our take.
Week 10 NFL Recap: On Sunday, Andy Dalton and the Bengals upset Eli and the Giants, the Saints handed the Falcons their first loss of the year, and the Rams and 49ers played to the first tie since the 2008 season. We discuss these games and more in our NFL week in review.

Plus:

We give our current Heisman front-runners, and predict how the final few weeks of the college football season will play out, including which teams will ultimately met in Miami on January 7th!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the 2012-13 NBA season, review the week that was in college football, and recap Week 9 in the NFL!

NBA Preview: We all know that the Heat are the team to beat, but which club has the best chance to dethrone the defending champs? We break down the top teams in both the East and West, and tell you who will battle it out in the Finals and ultimately win it all.
Wild Weekend in College Football: On Saturday, the Fighting Irish were pushed to 3 overtimes by a .500 team, the Ducks hung 62 on the Trojans...while giving up over 50, and the Crimson Tide rallied late against the Tigers to remain #1. We review the week that was in college football.
NFL Week 9 Recap: On Sunday, the Bears put a serious beat down on the Titans, Big Ben and company came back to knock off Eli and the Giants, and Andrew Luck and the Colts won another for coach Chuck Pagano. We discuss these games and more in our Week 9 recap.

Plus:

Hear our take on the amazing game rookie Doug Martin had against the Raiders, and the odds that Sean Payton becomes the next head coach of the Cowboys!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the 2012 Fall Classic, discuss the week that was in college football, and review Week 8 in the NFL!

A Title For San Fran: It only took the Giants 4 games to dispose of the favored Tigers, as timely hitting and clutch pitching brought the City by the Bay their second championship in three years. We break down how San Francisco got the job done.
Week 9 in College Football: Week 9 saw South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore fall victim to a horrendous leg injury, the Gators drop from the ranks of the unbeaten, and the Fighting Irish make a major statement in Norman, Oklahoma. We recap all this and more from the week that was in college football.
NFL, Week 8: Tom Brady and the Patriots took the Rams to the woodshed across the pond, Eli and the Giants knocked off Romo and company in a wild one at Cowboys Stadium, and Peyton Manning outdueled Drew Brees in a battle of top quarterbacks. We discuss these games and more in our Week 8 recap.

Plus:

Hear our take on the odds of USC upsetting #4 Oregon on Saturday, OKC sending James Harden to Houston, if it's time to pull the plug on Michael Vick in Philly, and the passing of legendary boxing trainer Emanuel Steward.

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we preview the 2012 Fall Classic, discuss how the Kansas State Wildcats have become a national championship contender, and recap the week that was in the National Football League!

World Series Preview: The Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants are the last teams standing in Major League Baseball. We review how the clubs got here, and break down what each must do to being home the Commissioner's Trophy.
Watch Out For K-State: Coach Bill Snyder has quietly put together a very solid team in Manhattan, Kansas, as the Wildcats currently sit at #3 in the BCS Standings. Can Kansas State run the table and make it all the way to the BCS Championship Game? Hear our take.
Week 7 in the NFL: Week 7 saw the 49ers knock off the Seahawks in a defensive battle, the Texans blowout the Ravens in a battle of top AFC teams, and RG3 and the Redskins go toe-to-toe with Eli and the Giants at the Meadowlands. We break down these games and more in our Week 7 recap.

Plus:

We discuss what the Oregon Ducks must do to get some respect in the BCS standings, and tell you which team currently ranked in the top 5 of the BCS faces the toughest road ahead in their quest for a national championship.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we take an in-depth look at the MLB playoffs, discuss the initial BCS rankings, and break down the week that was in the NFL!

Down the Home Stretch: Major League Baseball now has its "Final Four," with the Yankees, Tigers, Cardinals, and Giants all vying for the title of baseball's best. How did these teams get here, and who has the best chance to win it all? Hear our take.
The First BCS Rankings: With the release of the first Bowl Championship Series standings this past Sunday, we rundown the current top 10 teams, and tell you who has the inside track to play in the BCS Championship Game on January 7th.
NFL Week 6 Recap: It was another crazy week in the National Football League, with RG3 and the Redskins running wild against the Vikings, the 49ers getting blitzed at home by Eli and the G-Men, and Matty Ice and the Falcons remaining perfect after another come-from-behind win, this time -- against the Raiders. We break down all these games and more in our Week 6 review.

Plus:

We get called out on our pick from last week's show when we proclaimed the Titans as the worst team in the NFL, and we put Seahawk cornerback Richard Sherman on blast for his controversial Tweets following Seattle's win over the Patriots.

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the teams on the rise in the newest college football polls, big games from Week 5 of the NFL, and unruly fans in Atlanta and Kansas City!

Teams on the Rise: LSU, Florida State, and Georgia all fell on Saturday, and South Carolina, Florida, and West Virginia reaped the benefits of it. Which of these teams could be a serious contender for the national title? We'll tell you.
Week 5 Review: The Patriots, Saints, and Colts were among the teams that had big wins this weekend, as Tom Brady outdueled Peyton Manning, Drew Brees passed an all-time great in route to a victory, and Andrew Luck led an inspired comeback against the Packers. We break down all these games and more.
When Fans Cross the Line: On Friday, fans became unruly following a questionable call in the Braves-Cardinals playoff game, and on Sunday, Kansas City fans cheered when starting quarterback Matt Cassel went down with an injury. So what is fair and what is foul for the paying customers at sporting events? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss the current front-runner for the Heisman Trophy Award, and tell you who the worst team in the NFL is through Week 5 (here's a hint -- it's not the Browns).

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Miguel Cabrera's "crowning" achievement, preview the upcoming Major League Baseball playoffs, and rundown the biggest surprises in the NFL through the first quarter of the season!

Miguel's Amazing Feat: On Wednesday night, Miguel Cabrera became the first Triple Crown winner since Carl Yastrzemski back in 1967. Just how big was Cabrera's accomplishment, and where does his season rank among the all-time greats? We'll tell you.
MLB Postseason Preview: Now that Major League Baseball's wild regular season has come to an end and the playoffs are set, what teams have the inside track to meet in this year's Fall Classic? We break it down.
Early NFL Surprises: With a quarter of the NFL season now officially in the books, which players and teams have caught people off guard the most? Hear our take.

Plus:

We discuss Bobby Valentine's disastrous season as manager of the Boston Red Sox, and debate which player is better right now -- Miguel Cabrera or Mike Trout?

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss how replacement officials are leaving a black mark on the 2012 NFL season, how Brian Kelly is turning things around at Notre Dame, and the circumstances that led to Billy Gillispie stepping down as Texas Tech's head basketball coach!

The Last Straw?: Replacement officials have struggled over the first three weeks of the season, but it all came to a head this past weekend, when several questionable calls were deciding factors in the outcome of games. Will all the mistakes finally be enough to get the regular officials back to work? Our answers may surprise you.
Return to Relevance?: Notre Dame Football has been all but irrelevant for well over two decades, but now that coach Brian Kelly has the Irish off to a 4-0 start, are the winds of change blowing in South Bend? We'll tell you.
End of the Line For Gillispie?: Billy Gillispie stepped down as head coach of the Red Raiders last week, citing health issues as the reason for his departure. Was that the real reason he resigned, or did he know his days as coach were numbered regardless? Hear our take.

Plus:

We break down the biggest replacement referee blunders from Week 3, pick the best 1-2 team in the NFL, and share our thoughts on the passing of Steve Sabol.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

*Program Note: Next week's podcast will air on Friday, October 5th, as opposed to our regular Tuesday airing. We will return to our normal schedule the following week. Thank you.

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Jay Cutler's questionable behavior during Chicago's Week 2 loss to Green Bay, Stanford knocking off USC for the fourth-consecutive time, and how the Phillies have managed to claw their way into the postseason race!

A Bear-Sized Attitude Problem?: Last week, Jay Cutler appeared to be having problems with members of his offensive line in Chicago's 23-10 loss to the Packers at Lambeau Field. Was the whole thing just blown way out of proportion, or are there underlying issues between Cutler and his teammates? We'll tell you.
Cardinals Stun the Trojans...Again: On Saturday, Stanford managed to upend USC for the fourth-straight time, knocking off the favored Trojans 21-14. Did the loss end USC's chances of playing in the BCS Championship Game, or do Matt Barkley and company still have time to recover? Our answers might surprise you.
Phillies in Contention?: Two months ago, Philadelphia was so deep in the postseason race hole that they had to have daylight pumped to them through a straw. Now, they're within striking distance of the second Wild Card spot in the National League. How did this happen, and can they close the deal on a playoff berth? Hear our take.

Plus:

We break down the evolution of quarterback Alex Smith, pick who the best team in the NFL is, and name our biggest surprises from Week 2!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Peyton Manning's triumphant return to the NFL, the Razorbacks shocking loss to Louisiana-Monroe, and how the Yankees lead in the American League East has dwindled down to nothing over the last month!

Peyton's Place: After missing all of last season with a neck injury, Peyton Manning returned to action on Sunday with a magnificent performance in a win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Was it a sign of things to come in Denver, or more like false hope for the Mile High City? We'll tell you.
Shocker in Fayetteville: On Saturday, the Arkansas Razorbacks blew a 21-point lead in losing to the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks. Just how big of an upset was it, and where does Arkansas go from here? Hear our take.
Panic in New York?: A month and a half ago, the Yankees held a double-digit lead in the AL East. Now, the Baltimore Orioles and Tampa Bay Rays are nipping at their heels. Can the Bronx Bombers hold them off, or will the O's or Rays take the division? Our answers might surprise you.

Plus:

We break down Michael Vick, Brandon Weeden, and Chris Johnson's Week 1 struggles, and Art Modell's Hall of Fame worthiness!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we take an in-depth look at the upcoming NFL season, and discuss the teams and players that will help define the 2012 campaign.

NFC Outlook: Can Eli and the Giants repeat? Can the Packers bounce back? Are the Cowboys primed for a deep postseason run? Are the Bears legit? Can the Saints overcome Bountygate? Are the 49ers truly elite? We answer all these questions and then some.
AFC Rundown: Can the Patriots rebound from another Super Bowl loss? Are the Ravens ready to take the next step? Are the Texans the AFC favorites? Are the Steelers heading in the wrong direction? Are the Broncos overhyped? Can the Chiefs surprise? We shed some light on all these topics.

Plus:

Around the League: Who's the best running back in the NFL? What type of effect will replacement officials have on the regular season? Which coaches are on the hot seat? Which teams will meet in the Super Bowl? Who wins it? We break it all down.

All this and much more in this week's special edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we break down the upcoming college football season, and discuss the elite teams and electrifying players that are sure to make the 2012 campaign one to remember!

Alabama vs. USC?: Heading into the year, Alabama and USC are the popular consensus pick to play for the National Championship. Can Nick Saban and Lane Kiffin lead their teams to this date with destiny, or will LSU, Oregon, or Oklahoma throw a monkey wrench into the plans? We'll tell you.
Heisman Hopefuls: Matt Barkley, Landry Jones, and Montee Ball are among the favorites to hoist the Heisman Trophy at season's end. Will one of these three rise to the occasion to claim the hardware, or can Geno Smith, Marcus Lattimore, or De'Anthony Thomas steal the show? Hear our take.

Plus:

We take an in-depth look at the schools that could surprise and the players who are looking to make big names for themselves in 2012!

All this and much more in this week's special edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Felix Hernandez's perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays, Melky Cabrera's 50-game suspension for elevated levels of testosterone, and the Tennessee Titans naming Jake Locker as their starting quarterback!

Felix's Gem: Last Wednesday Seattle's Felix Hernandez tossed the third perfect game of the season in a brilliant 12 strikeout performance against Tampa Bay. Just how good is this guy, and is there a way that the Mariners can keep him long-term? We'll tell you.
Hot Water For Melky: Major League Baseball suspended San Francisco's Melky Cabrera 50-games last week for testing positive for elevated levels of testosterone. What does the suspension mean for the Giants postseason aspirations, and what kind of overall damage does it do to Cabrera's career moving forward? Our answers may surprise you.
Locker Gets the Nod: The Titans have decided to go with second-year player Jake Locker as their starting quarterback. Did Tennessee make the right decision, or should veteran Matt Hasselbeck still be the man under center? Hear our take.

Plus:

We break down Miami's decision to go with rookie Ryan Tannehill at QB, and how the one-on-one exhibition match between Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy could play out!

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss Chad Johnson's arrest on a domestic violence charge, the Orlando Magic's decision to trade center Dwight Howard to the Los Angeles Lakers, and LSU showing cornerback Tyrann Mathieu the door!

The End For Johnson?: Following an altercation with his wife this past weekend, the Miami Dolphins decided to cut ties with wideout Chad Johnson. Will another team give him a look, or are his playing days now over? Hear our take.
Howard to the Lakers: Disgruntled center Dwight Howard finally got his wish last week, traded from Orlando to Los Angeles. Is the addition of Howard enough to put the Lakers over the top in the Western Conference next season? Our answers could surprise you.
Heisman Finalist Dumped: On Friday, LSU dismissed All-American cornerback Tyrann Mathieu from the team for violating university rules. What does this do to his NFL aspirations? We'll tell you.

Plus:

We break down how the U.S. Men's Basketball Team brought home the gold, and how Rory McIlroy dominated the field at the PGA Championship!

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we turn the show over to the listeners and viewers by covering topics supplied to us by their emails, including -- the possible settlement offered by the NFL to Jonathan Vilma, Brandon Marshall's Super Bowl prediction, and Terrell Owens to the Seattle Seahawks!

A Deal For Vilma?: Reportedly, the National Football League has offered Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma a settlement and reduced suspension if he drops his lawsuit against the league. Should he take the deal? How will this all play out? Hear our take.
Are the Bears Super?: Brandon Marshall says Chicago has what it takes to win the Super Bowl this year. Is he crazy, or could the wide receiver really be on to something here? We'll tell you.
Seattle Inks Owens: 38-year-old wide receiver Terrell Owens finally has a new home. But at his age, is it even realistic to expect much out of him? Our answers could surprise you.

Plus:

Best Ever?: With 22 total medals over the course of three Olympic Games, is Michael Phelps now the greatest Olympian of all-time? We break it down.
Dream Team 2012: Which is the real U.S. Men's Basketball Team? The one that destroyed Nigeria by 83, or the one that barely beat Lithuania by 5? Also, could this group possibly beat the original Dream Team? Let the debate begin.

All this and more in this week's special edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we talk U.S. men's basketball, the legacy of Michael Phelps, the biggest moves made prior to Major League Baseball's trade deadline, and read multiple listener and viewer emails!

On a Mission: On Sunday, the U.S. men's basketball team won their Olympic opener, knocking off France 98-71. Who, if anyone, could pose a threat to Team USA's pursuit of the gold? We'll tell you.
Legacy Damage?: If Michael Phelps continues to struggle in these Olympic Games, how much will his overall legacy be affected? Our answers might surprise you.
Men on the Move: With players such as Ichiro Suzuki, Hanley Ramirez, and Zach Greinke finding new homes before the MLB trade deadline, who could be the guy that puts his new team over-the-top in the postseason? We break it down.
Mail Time: We answer multiple listener and viewer email questions, including -- how impressed we've been with the Reds of late, if we believe the Red Sox can get back in the playoff race, how we think Maurice Jones-Drew's holdout will play out in Jacksonville, and what our take is on the Saints apparent obsession with suspended head coach Sean Payton.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss the penalties handed down by the NCAA to Penn State, Adam Scott's monumental collapse at the British Open, the surprising Oakland Athletics, and Ichiro's possible impact with the New York Yankees!

A Program in Ruins: The NCAA lowered the boom on Penn State University Monday, including a $60 million fine and a four-year postseason ban. How long could it take the school to recover from these unprecedented sanctions, and what should Bill O'Brien and his staff do moving forward? We break it down.
Scott's Meltdown: On Sunday, Adam Scott managed to blow a four-shot lead with four holes to play at the British Open. Was his collapse the biggest ever in a major? We'll tell you.
Moneyball 2?: Don't look now, but the Oakland A's are currently the hottest team in baseball. Can the club with the lowest payroll in the American League make the postseason? Our answers may surprise you.
Ichiro to the Big Apple: The Bronx Bombers acquired Ichiro Suzuki from the Seattle Mariners Monday. What can you expect out of the Japanese star in New York? Hear our take.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

*If you'd like to be part of the show, email your questions or comments to thebleacherbriefings@inbox.com for a chance to have them read during the broadcast!

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After some R&R, The Bleacher Briefings podcast is back! This week, we recap the first half of the Major League Baseball season, discuss Drew Brees and the New Orleans Saints finally agreeing on a long-term deal, and take a closer look at the Jeremy Lin situation in New York!

MLB First Half Review: With half of the Major League Baseball season now in the books, we hand out first half awards and tell you what teams to look out for as we head towards the postseason.
Brees Signs: The Saints signed quarterback Drew Brees to a 5-year, $100 million contract last week. Which side got the better end of the deal? We'll tell you.
The End For Lin in NYC?: The Knicks have until 11:59 tonight to match the Houston Rockets 3-year, $25 million contract offer to Jeremy Lin. Should New York bring Lin back? Our answers may surprise you.

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we hand out team grades for the NBA Draft, and take an in-depth look at the many intriguing storylines heading into next Tuesday's MLB All-Star Game in Kansas City!

Draft Review: Was Michael Kidd-Gilchrist selected too high? Will Harrison Barnes reach his full potential in Golden State? Do the Cleveland Cavaliers and Toronto Raptors have any idea what they're doing? We answer all these questions and many more while handing out team draft grades.
MLB All-Star Game Preview: With home-field advantage for the World Series hanging in the balance, which team has the edge heading into next week's contest? We'll tell you.
Mail Time: We answer listener email questions, including -- is Jim Thome a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer, and which is more surprising, the Yankees leading the AL East, or the Phillies being in the basement of the NL East.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the NBA Finals, discuss what teams could prevent the Heat and Thunder from repeating as conference champions next season, and take a closer look at the proposed system that could change the landscape of college football forever!

Miami Reigns Supreme: In a highly competitive series, the Heat managed to knock off the Oklahoma City Thunder in five games to claim the Larry O'Brien Trophy. What were the deciding factors that helped LeBron James claim his first championship? We'll tell you.
2012-13 Season Crystal Ball: It's never too early to start looking ahead to next season, so we take an in-depth look at the teams and players that could possibly prevent Miami from repeating as NBA champions.
New Day in College Football?: On Tuesday, university presidents will formally suggest a four-team playoff to replace the current BCS format. Is this where the new system will end, or is it only the beginning? Our answers might surprise you.
Mail Time: We answer listener email questions, including -- who is under the most pressure to win a title now that LeBron finally has one, what big name NBA player is most likely to find a new home during the offseason, and what our thoughts were on Boston trading third baseman Kevin Youkilis to the White Sox.

All this and much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss how the Heat have gotten the upper hand in the NBA Finals, the Jim Rome/David Stern interview gone astray, and Matt Cain's perfect game against the Houston Astros!

Advantage Miami: The Heat managed to steal home-court advantage and now hold a 2-1 series lead on OKC. Can LeBron and company seal the deal at home? What do the Thunder need to do to turn the series around in their favor? We'll tell you.
Interview Turns Ugly: NBA Commissioner David Stern lashed out at Jim Rome during an interview last week after the controversial sports radio talk show host asked if the NBA Draft Lottery was fixed. Did the commish overreact? Should Rome have even asked the question in the first place? Hear our take.
Perfection For Cain: Last Wednesday, San Francisco Giants pitcher Matt Cain tossed the 22nd perfect game in MLB history in a 10-0 win over the Houston Astros. Was his performance the greatest of all-time? Our answers may surprise you.

Plus:

Simpson Wins the Open: On Sunday, Webb Simpson grabbed his first major tournament victory by winning the U.S. Open. Did he actually win the tourney, or did everyone else lose it?
Mail Time: We answer listener email questions, including -- what we thought of the Mariners six-pitcher no-hitter, if we think LaDainian Tomlinson is one of the ten best running backs off all-time, and if we were surprised Roger Clemens was found not guilty on all six counts in his perjury trial.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we recap the NBA Conference Finals and preview the upcoming Miami-OKC series, discuss the controversial decision in the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley bout, and breakdown the Stanley Cup Finals!

Heat vs. Thunder: In the Conference Finals, Miami managed to hold off Boston in the East, while Oklahoma City rallied from two games down to take out San Antonio in the West. What are the keys to victory for both teams heading into the Finals? Who will come out on top? We'll tell you.
Sad State of Boxing: The judges undeniably robbed Manny Pacquiao of a win over over Timothy Bradley in Las Vegas on Saturday night. Can anything be done to stop the corruption within the sport?
Kings Crowned: How exactly does a team enter the postseason as an 8-seed yet still manage to be the last ones standing when it's all said and done? Los Angeles had the blueprint, and we're breaking it down.

Plus:

Sharapova's Slam: On Saturday, Maria Sharapova became the tenth woman to capture the career Grand Slam in tennis. How impressive is the feat? Hear our take.
No Triple Crown...Again: Union Rags won in a photo finish at the Belmont on Saturday, after favorite I'll Have Another pulled out with an injury. Will there ever be another Triple Crown winner in horse racing? Our answers might surprise you.

All this and so much more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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In this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast, we discuss both the NBA Conference Finals and draft lottery, Johan Santana no-hitting the Cardinals, the Stanley Cup Finals, and Tiger Woods returning to form at the Memorial!

NBA, NBA, NBA: Can the Spurs overcome adversity? Are the Celtics too much for the Heat? Is it time to shake up the lottery? Will Anthony Davis be a bust? We cover all the hottest topics in the NBA.
Are the Mets For Real?: Last week, Johan Santana tossed the first no-hitter in Mets team history. Can New York continue to overachieve and actually make a run at the postseason?
Kings of Hockey?: Los Angeles now has a commanding lead in the Stanley Cup Finals. Can New Jersey rally to make it a series, or are the Kings just too much for the Devils to handle?
Is Tiger Back?: After an impressive comeback win at the Memorial, is Tiger Woods regaining his old form, or was his performance Sunday just a flash of his former self? We'll tell you.

All this and more in this week's edition of The Bleacher Briefings podcast!

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