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Feb. 12 - Feb. 18, 2021 Vol. 19, Issue 25 www.sportspagdfw.com FREE 2 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 3 Feb. 12, 2020 - Feb. 18, 2021 AROUND THE AREA Vol. 19, Issue 25 LOCAL NEWS OF INTEREST sportspagedfw.com Established 2002 NASCAR All-Star Weekend at TMS Cover Photo: AROUND THE AREA The Big 12 has released its 2021 foot- Texas Tech at Kansas 4 ball conference schedule. The slate features TCU at Oklahoma RANGER REPORT a 10-team, nine-game, round robin format Oklahoma State at Texas 5 BY DIC HUMPHREY for the 11th consecutive season, culminat- Saturday, October 23 GOLF, ETC ing with the Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Oklahoma State at Iowa State 6 BY TOM WARD Championship Game. Oklahoma at Kansas THIS WEEK ON TOUR: AT&T Baylor will travel to Kansas on Kansas State at Texas Tech PEBBLE BEACH PRO AM September 18 in the league opener. The West Virginia at TCU 7 BY PGATOUR.COM Speedycash.com 220 kicks off NASCAR All-Star Weekend at Texas Motor first full week of conference play is sched- Saturday, October 30 AT&T PEBBEL BEACH PRO AM uled for October 2. Texas at Baylor 8 FAVORITES Speedway BY PGATOUR.COM The SpeedyCash.com 220 NASCAR The regular season will conclude over Iowa State at West Virginia Thanksgiving weekend. Kansas at Oklahoma State WHO PUTS BEST ON POA Camping World Truck Series race on June 9 ANNUA 12 opens a packed and historic weekend The top two finishers in the regular sea- TCU at Kansas State BY JUSTIN REY schedule of on-track activities at Texas son standings will compete for the Texas Tech at Oklahoma 2021 BIG 12 BASEBALL Motor Speedway culminating in the June Conference title in the Championship Saturday, November 6 PREVIEW Game, scheduled for Saturday, December 4 Baylor at TCU 10 BY KENDALL ROGERS 13 NASCAR All-Star Race. Speedy Cash is in the second year of a in AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Texas at Iowa State NEWS AND Television selections for the first three Kansas State at Kansas 13 NOTES multi-year agreement as the entitlement BY BO CARTER partner of the NASCAR Camping World weeks of the season and special dates are Oklahoma State at West Virginia due to the Conference by June 1, 2021. Saturday, November 13 AUTO REVIEW Truck Series SpeedyCash.com 400 at 17 BY KBB.COM Texas Motor Speedway. In February, 2020 Institutions will announce the non-confer- Oklahoma at Baylor ence portion of schedules. Iowa State at Texas Tech THE TICKET WINDOW the Wichita, Kansas-based company was 18 also named the entitlement partner of Saturday, September 18 Kansas at Texas Baylor at Kansas West Virginia at Kansas State RESTAURANT REVIEW SpeedyCash.com Victory Lane. Its rela- 19 BY RICHARD POLLAK tionship with the track began in June 2019 Saturday, September 25 TCU at Oklahoma State with a one-race sponsorship of the Iowa State at Baylor Saturday, November 20 SpeedyCash.com 400. Kansas State at Oklahoma State Baylor at Kansas State Coverage of the 147-lap/220.5-mile West Virginia at Oklahoma Iowa State at Oklahoma SpeedyCash.com 220 begins Saturday, Texas Tech at Texas Kansas at TCU June 12, at 12:00 p.m. CT on FS1 and Saturday, October 2 Oklahoma State at Texas Tech MRN. 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4 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com RANGERS WITH DIC HUMPHREY Pitchers and catchers report next week

the minor leagues is falling into place. The Rangers have apparently added This week, the Rangers top two farm clubs another pitcher this week. Korean pitcher Ð AAA Round Rock and AA Frisco Ð offi- Yang Hyeon-jong is close to signing a cially accepted MLB’s invitation to remain minor league contract with the Rangers a Triple-A and Double-A affiliate of the that includes an invitation to spring train- Texas Rangers for ten years. The agree- ing. He was previously posted in 2014, ment is officially known as the “MLB and the Rangers bid on him then, but all Professional Development License.” the bids were rejected keeping him in The trade of Elvis Andrus for Khris Korea. Yang started 31 games last year Davis was still in the news this week. with an 11-10 record and a disappointing Davis was introduced at a press confer- 4.70 ERA. A year earlier, he was very ence. He was upbeat about the trade that strong with a 16-8 record and 2.29 ERA. brought him to Texas and believes he can The Rangers are hoping to see the 2018 return to form hitting home runs like he did version of Yang. in 2019 when he hit 48 to lead the league. The Ranger have not announced atten- He was for sure a Ranger killer, so having dance policies in view of Coronavirus pro- him on the Rangers may drop the Rangers’ tocols. They have however written staff ERA. He has been a one man wreck- Governor Abbott requesting they be ing crew against Texas. allowed 50% occupancy at the stadium The first spring game will be against Kansas City on February 27 It had been assumed that Elvis Andrus when the season begins. would slide over to third base, much like Game times were set this week for all games prior to March 14 can be limited to Michael Young did when Elvis first arrived Major League games. Of note is the as few as five innings. Also, innings may in the Majors. With Elvis now gone, there “MLB Field of Dreams” game on be considered complete without recording is no heir apparent for the position. It is Thursday, August 12. The White Sox and three outs when a pitcher has thrown 20 likely that the Rangers will look over the Yankees will square off in the first Major pitches or more in the inning. Substitution remaining free agents for a veteran. Josh League game ever played in Iowa. This rules will also be relaxed allowing for re- Jung (pronounced “Young”), the team’s top game was originally scheduled last year but entry of players into games in certain cir- minor league prospect could possibly be was scuttled because of the COVID-19 sit- cumstances. In the regular season, two the Rangers’ third baseman by season’s uation. Also, the fourth Little League rules adopted last year stay in place. end. The team seems adamant though that Classic is scheduled for August 22 in BY DIC HUMPHREY Doubleheaders will again be two seven they do not want to him to the Majors Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The Indians [email protected] inning games. Extra innings will again and have indicated he will not be the open- and Angels will play in that one. The MEMBER: USBWA start with a runner on second base. ing day third baseman. Yankees and Mets will play an interleague The maximum roster size in Spring Jose Trevino is almost a lock to be the game on September 11, the first time the The truckloads of equipment pulled out Training is 75. The roster size on opening Rangers’ starting catcher this season, but two New York teams have met on that date. of Arlington last week. The players and day will be 26, and they will expand to 28 Jonah Heim is now in the conversation NOTABLE: owners did actually get together on how in September. On opening day, teams will after he was acquired in the Elvis Andrus ¥ The Rangers officially announced the spring training and the regular season can also submit a list of 28 players that will be trade. The switch hitting catcher appeared signing of Mike Foltynewicz. The signing be played in this COVID-19 environment. assigned either to AAA or a team’s alter- in 13 games with Oakland last season hit- prompted a move on the 40-man roster to Whew! It’s good to know that the two nate site. Clubs will again be able to carry ting .211 in 41 plate appearances. make room for Foltynewicz, and it was sides can agree on something. a five man taxi squad on road trips to have However, he was very impressive in 2019 outfielder Adolis Garcia that was designat- For the Rangers, pitchers and catchers replacements readily available in case of hitting .310 with nine home runs in 327 ed for assignment. report February 17 and the first full team injury. One of the five must be a catcher. AA and AAA plate appearances. He has a ¥ Former Ranger outfielder Nomar workout will be February 22. The first The start of Minor League baseball is realistic chance of making the Rangers’ Mazara is rumored to be close to signing spring game will be against Kansas City, still up in the air since minor league train- opening day roster. with the Detroit Tigers. the team that shares the Surprise, Arizona ing camps cannot open until Major League training complex with the Rangers, at 2:05 Spring Training concludes. It thus appears (Central) on February 27. that the “Alternate Site” concept will be There are several protocols dealing with utilized again, at least until the Minor the Coronavirus. Many are similar to those League affiliates open their seasons. utilized in the 2020 season, but they have The use of the designated hitter in the been updated based on the experience of National League however was not playing through last season in the COVID- addressed. At least for now, pitchers will 19 environment and from the experience of bat in National League home games. other leagues. One that sticks out is that Playoff expansion was also not agreed players will be required to wear a Kinexon upon, so Major League Baseball is back to contact tracing device at all times while in 10 teams making the playoffs with two club facilities and while involved in club Wild Card teams in each league playing travel and activities. There will be more one game with the winner joining the other frequent testing, and unlike last year, play- three for the League Division Series. It is ers will be subject to discipline if they vio- noteworthy that last year’s playoff expan- late the protocols. Players are required to sion was agreed upon only shortly before wear masks that cover their mouth and the season began in July, so a last minute nose in the dugout and bullpens, except for deal is still possible on these two fan pitchers and catchers warming up. favorite ideas. As for playing rules, Spring Training Major League Baseball’s takeover of

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 5 GOLF TOM WARD Golf and baseball drills are similar

hands go back to their launching position. Whoever is doing the toss will wait until the hitter has landed the front foot to throw the ball. Make sure there is a small separa- tion between the stride and when the hands start the downswing path to the ball. The hitter needs to land softly and use his hands (land on the toes of the front foot to TOM WARD stay square and slow everything down). [email protected] Also, have the hitter maintain firm front foot (this prevents the body from drifting).” Baseball’s spring training is fast In the golf sequences, the photos of me approaching as players and coaches get swinging are taken from a different angle. ready to report to their respective camps. The drill is almost exactly what Luiz No one knows what will be in store for the demonstrated in the baseball sequence. players and coaches in 2021, especially However, instead of facing the target like after what occurred last year in a shorted Luiz showcased in the baseball drill, I’m season with the Covid-19 outbreak. just dropping the left foot back next to the However, as players and coaches prepare right foot as seen in the top left photo. they know that drills are vitally important Next, as I begin the backswing (top in reinforcing good work habits which will right photo) the club has started its upward lead to better techniques. transition to complete the backswing. I’ve In this week’s column, I’m showcasing a drawn an arrow on my left foot to highlight great baseball drill from my friend Luis where the club continues upward and my Ortiz, the Texas Rangers hitting coach. A legs are stepping forward towards the few years ago Ortiz wrote a popular series intended target. This action creates a of Baseball instructional books called ‘The dynamic twisting force whereby the upper Natural Hitter’s Drill Handbook’. Luis and body and lower body are developing a I have had some profound discussions on powerful spring like torqueing action. the similarities between our sports and the In the bottom left photo, is the down- techniques involved in hitting a baseball swing move back into the hitting area. The and golf ball. bottom right photo is the big moment of The following are excerpts taken from impact...swinging full speed ahead, releas- Ortiz’s book. ing all stored upper energy back to the ball. “It improves separation, and teaches the Whether swinging a golf club or a base- hitter to use his front foot and improves ball this drill works on many levels in help- body rhythm. The hitter begins the drill ing athletes develop timing, rhythm and behind home plate, with his whole body motor skills. Learning to step first, then facing where the pitcher would be (perpen- twist and go ahead and swing through full dicular to the plate) and his bat either on speed can go a long way in improving the back shoulder or in front of him. He technique and becoming a better baseball takes a small step forward with the foot player at the plate or a golfer on the tee. closest to the plate, and then does a half On a personal note, I would like to wish circle step with the other leg. That foot the Texas Rangers all the best in the com- needs to land where it usually lands after ing season! he strides. As the foot is going forward, the Tom can be contacted at teetimewithtom.com

6 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com GOLF PGA TOUR This week: AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am

Snedeker (2015). HOW TO FOLLOW 18-HOLE RECORD: 60, Sung Kang at Monterey Peninsula (2nd round, 2016). Television: Thursday-Friday, 2 p.m.-5 Pebble Beach record: 62, Tom Kite (3rd p.m. (Golf Channel). Saturday-Sunday, 1 round, 1983), David Duval (3rd round, p.m.-3 p.m. (Golf Channel). Saturday, 3 1997). Spyglass Hill record: 62, Phil p.m.-6 p.m. (CBS). Sunday, 3 p.m.-6:30 Mickelson (1st round, 2005), Luke Donald p.m. (CBS). (1st round, 2006). PGA TOUR LIVE: Thursday-Friday, 11 LAST TIME: Nick Taylor held off a a.m.Ð6 p.m. ET (Featured Groups). charging Kevin Streelman to win his sec- Saturday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (Featured ond PGA TOUR title. Taylor, whose first Groups), 3 p.m.-6 p.m. (Featured Holes). TOUR win came at the 2014 Sanderson Sunday, 10:20 a.m.-3 p.m. (Featured Farms Championship, was paired with Phil Groups), 3 p.m.-6:30 p.m. (Featured Holes). Mickelson for the final round, but Taylor’s Radio: Thursday-Friday, 12 p.m.-6 p.m. 2-under 70 proved to be enough as Saturday, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, 1 p.m.- Mickelson fired a final-round 74. Taylor 6:30 p.m. (PGA TOUR Radio on SiriusXM held on down the stretch making birdies on and PGATOUR.com/liveaudio). Nos. 15 and 17 after bogeys on Nos. 11 TOURCast: Get shot-by-shot info in real and 12, and a double bogey on the par-5 time with shot tracks and video with 14th. Mickelson finished third, Jason Day TOURCast.TOUR Pulse: Get the PGA finished fourth, and Maverick McNealy, TOUR app to utilize TOUR Pulse, which Daniel Berger, Matt Jones, and Charl provides users the ability to experience a Schwartzel all finished T5. Taylor opened mix of content, such as video highlights, Nick Taylor goes wire-to-wire to win at AT&T Pebble Beach the tournament with a 63 and was in con- written hole summaries and stat graphics tention all week long before taking it on every player after every hole they com- By Adam Stanley FedExCup points. across the finish line Sunday. plete. PGATOUR.COM COURSE: This year, with no pro-am por- While there will be no pro-am portion tion of the tournament, the 156 profession- to this year’s AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, als will play only two courses instead of the tournament will still feature 156 play- the usual three. The two courses that will ers and a field full of notable names. be used are Pebble Beach Golf Links (Jack Nick Taylor returns to defend his 2020 Neville/Douglas Grant, 1919) and Spyglass title, while Phil Mickelson is gunning for Hill Golf Course (Robert Trent Jones Sr., his record sixth title at Pebble Beach. 1966). The cut will take place after 36 FIELD NOTES: Dustin Johnson, a two- holes instead of 54. time winner at Pebble Beach, withdrew on Pebble Beach Golf Links, par 72, 7,051 Monday… Kamaiu Johnson, who was set yards to make his PGA TOUR debut at the Spyglass Hill Golf Course, par 72, 7,041 Farmers Insurance Open but was unable to yards due to a positive COVID-19 test, will STORYLINES: The first of three victo- instead tee it up at Pebble. Johnson’s ries for Jordan Spieth in 2017 came at inspiring story -- he was an eighth-grade Pebble Beach. Spieth, who won the dropout but found comfort in golf -- caught Travelers and The Open Championship that the eyes of TOUR event organizers… same year, hasn’t won since. Spieth, who Other sponsor exemptions include 19-year- was T8 heading into the weekend in old Akshay Bhatia, who finished T9 at this Phoenix, will keep that momentum going season’s Safeway Open, and 2019 U.S. into Pebble Beach, a place he’s comfort- Amateur champion Andy Ogletree. Davis able… Matt Gogel – who hasn’t played the Riley, who sits third on the Korn Ferry PGA TOUR since 2007 Ð is in the field as Tour’s Regular Season Points List, also is a Sponsor Exemption. Gogel won at Pebble in the field on sponsor exemption. He Beach in 2002 and was a key supporting made the cut at last week’s Waste actor in Tiger Woods’ comeback win in Management Phoenix Open… The Prince 2000. It was Gogel, then a TOUR rookie, of Pebble Beach, Phil Mickelson, returns to who had the seven-shot lead with seven the PGA TOUR this week and is looking holes left that Woods eventually overcame for his record sixth victory at the event… thanks in part to a hole-out eagle at the par- The PGA TOUR Champions will be repre- 4 15th… Jason Day has done everything sented at Pebble Beach. Other than but win at Pebble Beach. His fourth-place Mickelson, a trio of over-50 major winners finish in 2020 gives the Aussie six top-6 Ð John Daly, Tom Lehman and Jim Furyk Ð finishes at the event, but no victories… will also be in the field… Past FedExCup Nick Taylor’s win in 2020 was the first by winners including Jordan Spieth, Brandt a non-American in 15 years. In fact, only Snedeker, and Bill Haas will also tee it up. four non-Americans have ever won at Spieth and Snedeker are past winners at Pebble Beach (Taylor, Vijay Singh, Brett Pebble Beach. Ogle, and Bruce Crampton). FEDEXCUP: Winner receives 500 72-HOLE RECORD: 265, Brandt

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 7 AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am Favorites

Fourth winner in five to be first or second group after 62 at MPCC in Round 3. ... in Par-Breakers.....Fifth consecutive winner Led the field in Par-Breakers and Birdies to finish in the top 2 Par-4 Scoring. ... (24). ... Last five winners from 2016-2021 Nearly won at The American Express (T2) have hit the top five in Putting: Birdie-or- but MC previous week at WMPO. ... Better Percentage. ... Sat T1 after 36 holes Played Saudi Arabia (T3) before 2020 solo here in 2013 before finishing T16. ... third. Entered the week off 75-74-82 finish at Notables: Torrey Pines South. ... Won in his fourth Paul Casey (2nd) shared the 36 hole attempt. ... Second win on TOUR. lead with Mickelson and led by three after Notables: 54 as he picked up his second consecutive Jason Day (T2) claimed his best finish top 10. ... Scott Stallings (3rd) joined to this day. ... Phil Mickelson (T2) closed Mickelson on 13-under for the three non- with 67. ... Chez Reavie (T2) went on to MPCC rounds. ... Jason Day (T4) was 7- finish third in the U.S. Open in 2019 and under aggregate. ... Si Woo Kim (T4) co-led the field in Strokes-Gained: Total at opened with 66 at Pebble and posted 13- Pebble Beach. ... Kevin Streelman (6th) under, not including MPCC. ... Kevin posted the best non MPCC aggregate by Streelman (T7) matched Mickelson with 65 two shots on 11-under. ... Scott Stallings on Sunday. ... Max Homa (T10) closed 68- (7th) stormed home with bogey-free 66 to 67 Spyglass/Pebble for his first top 10 at post 9-under on the three courses in use for the event. ... Michael Thompson (T10) 2021. ... Paul Casey (T8) also signed for 9- By Mike Glasscott ner but first since Phil Mickelson (2005). ... posted a bogey-free 66 Sunday. ... Due to under, co-second-best aggregate. ... Kevin PGATOUR.COM First 54-hole lead or co-lead on TOUR. ... inclement weather, Lift, Clean and Replace Chappell (T8) co-led Strokes-Gained: Total The annual Clam Bake on the Chipped in twice, once for eagle, once for were used all four rounds. ... Consecutive at Pebble Beach. ... 2014 winner Jimmy California coast resumes for the 84th edi- birdie in the final round. ... Joins the last left handed winners. Walker (T8) has MC the last two editions. tion this week as a field of 156 will tee it three champs in winning by three or more 2018: Ted Potter (-17) ... Defending champ Jordan Spieth cashed up at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Unlike the shots.....Only one of three players to start at Began the final round in the final group T20. ... First round leader and co-36 hole previous editions there will not be 156 No. 1 tee and post a score under-par (70) in with Dustin Johnson (not entered) and beat leader Beau Hossler (T43) opened with 65 amateurs joining their professional partners the final round. ... Posted 11-under aggre- him by three shots. ... Played in the final at Pebble Beach. ... Weather was perfect. due to the pandemic. A purse of $7.8 mil- gate on Pebble Beach/Spyglass; tied with lion is on the table and so are 500 FedEx Streelman for low total for the week. ... Cup points and a check for $1.404 million Becomes sixth consecutive winner in the for first place. top 10 GIR (T3). ... Won in his sixth try... For those of you who enjoy the antics Only one top 10 in his previous seven of Bill Murray or the quick wit of Ray TOUR events entering the week. Romano, apologies. The good news is the Notables: show is going on but in a different format Kevin Streelman (2nd) led the field in this year and will not include six hour Strokes-Gained at Pebble Beach as he rounds. Only Pebble Beach Golf Links and picked up his third consecutive top 10 fin- Spyglass Hill will be in use as Monterrey ish. ... 5-time and defending champion Phil Peninsula Country Club takes a break with- Mickelson (3rd) played his final 12 holes out the amateurs. Each pro will get a round in 5-over par after beginning the final on each before the tournament is cut after round one behind. ... Jason Day (4th) 36 holes. Those surviving return to Pebble signed for his fifth T5 or better in his last Beach for the weekend and a chance for six visits. ... Daniel Berger (T5) picked up the victory. his second top 10 payday in as many visits. Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass ... Matt Jones (T5) has cashed T11 or better Hill have both hosted rounds in this tourna- in three of his last six but this was the best ment every year since 1978. Pebble Beach of the bunch. ... Maverick McNealy (T5) will play Par-72 and stretch to 7,051 yards posted a bogey-free 68 to close, the only while Spyglass Hill is the same Par-72 but bogey-free round of the day. ... 2017 win- just 10 yards shorter. The greens at Pebble ner Jordan Spieth (T9) posted the low Beach (and the wind) are the main defense round of Sunday (67) to hit the top 10 for as they are the smallest on TOUR. The the fourth time in eight visits. ... Patrick fairways are some of the widest so that's a Cantlay (T11) opened with 66 at Spyglass clue. Spyglass Hill has slightly below aver- but played Pebble Beach 1-over on the age targets and has ranked inside the top 20 weekend. ... Day and Chris Baker (T38) most difficult tracks on TOUR the last posted 64 on Pebble Beach in Round 2. three seasons. 2019: Phil Mickelson (-19) Canadian Nick Taylor returns to defend Won for the fifth time, tying Mark his title and will look to join Dustin O'Meara for most in tournament history. ... Johnson (not entered) as the only repeat 14th win in California ties Tiger Woods for champion this century. the most in TOUR history. ... Trailed Paul Recent Winners and Notables Casey by three shots after 54 holes yet won 2020: Nick Taylor (-19) by three.....Oldest winner in event history Won by four shots for his second victory at 48. ... 15th straight winner from USA. ... on TOUR....Just the fourth international Played his final two rounds at Pebble winner in history.....10th wire-to-wire win- Beach (-9) after 68 at Spyglass Hill. ...

8 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Who’s best putting on poa annua?

changing during a round itself may impact IAN POULTER putts made percentage. The earliest tee Known best for his clutch putts in a cer- times Ð those from 6-8 a.m. Ð have a make tain biennial team event, Ian Poulter has percentage from 5-10 feet of 55.4%. When been lethal on poa annua greens when he’s teeing off from 9-11 a.m. hour, that number played in PGA TOUR events in recent sea- drops to 52.4%, before incrementally sons. Since 2015, there are 229 players increasing in the later tee times to 53.3%. with 30 or more rounds played on poa This could mean that later tee times tend to annua greens. Of that group, Poulter ranks yield more consistent green speeds on Poa first in Strokes Gained: Putting per round, surfaces throughout a round, while a mid- at 0.87. In nine different rounds during that morning time may see a player deal with span, Poulter has gained two or more full speed changes near the end of his day. strokes on the field with his putting. Who performs best on Poa annua? VAUGHN TAYLOR PATRICK REED One of the more interesting statistical Of all players with 20 or more measured profiles in this study belongs to Vaughn rounds on poa annua greens the last three Taylor. The former winner at Pebble Beach seasons, only one player averages more provides an example of a player who actu- than a full Stroke Gained: Putting per ally putts better on poa annua surfaces than round Ð Patrick Reed. No other player on on other types of grasses. Over the last the PGA TOUR averages more than 0.75 three seasons, Taylor ranks third on the Strokes Gained: Putting on those surfaces PGA TOUR in Strokes Gained: Putting per during that same stretch. round on poa greens, at +0.73. During that That elite performance shone brightly same span, Taylor has averaged +0.22 during his last start, a five-stroke victory at Strokes Gained: Putting per round on all Torrey Pines. Reed averages eight one- other surfaces. putts per round on poa greens the last three It makes sense, then, that all three of seasons, most of any player (minimum 30 Taylor’s wins have come at courses that rounds played). Reed had a remarkable 38 feature some poa annua in their green com- Brandt Snedeker is known as one of the best putters on poa annua greens. (Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) one-putts in his win two weeks ago, the plexes: twice at Montreux CC at the most by any winner on the PGA TOUR Barracuda Championship, and six years this season, and the most by a winner at the ago at this week’s event, the AT&T Pebble The princes of poa: Who’s best on this Colloquially, we have all heard it for Farmers Insurance Open since tracking of Beach Pro-Am. putting surface? years - but 15th Club wanted to quantify statistics began in 1983. BRANDT SNEDEKER the difference between putting on poa KEVIN KISNER Observationally, Brandt Snedeker’s By Justin Ray annua greens versus all other surfaces on Since 2015, Kevin Kisner has made name makes perfect sense on this list: his PGATOUR.COM the PGA TOUR. 74.5% of his putts on poa annua greens ‘pop-stroke’ style has been lauded through- Possibly the most bemoaned of all put- Players have made 68.3% of putts from from 4-8 feet, the second-best percentage out his career when playing on the West ting surfaces, poa annua greens have devel- 4-8 feet on all putting surfaces since 2015. of any player. For perspective, that percent- Coast. The numbers bear it out, too: over oped a bumpy reputation. When isolating those numbers to just poa age is significantly better than the TOUR the last three seasons, Snedeker is fifthh on Pervasive among many PGA TOUR annua greens, the make percentage drops to average from that range on all surfaces last TOUR in Strokes Gained: Putting per venues during the West Coast swing, fans 66.5%. While that differential of less than season Ð 68.2%. round on Poa annua greens. (+0.71). will often hear commentators talk about the 2% sounds small, it can add up. For Kisner is also second-best from 5-10 Pebble Beach Golf Links has been espe- difficulty of putting on poa greens, espe- instance, that’s the difference in ranking feet (62.5%) and ranked 12th in Strokes cially good to Snedeker: since 2013, he has cially as an afternoon progresses. Maybe 20th on TOUR in make percentage from Gained: Putting on poa in that span, gain- averaged +0.94 Strokes Gained: Putting per the best example of that trait comes from that range and ranking 42nd. Putts made ing more than half-a-stroke per round on round at that venue, second-best of anyone the close-up view of the golf ball in one of outside of 10 feet feature a smaller differ- the field. with 10 or more rounds in that span. this sport’s most iconic moments of the last ential, as the make percentage drops from quarter-century: next time you watch Tiger 15.2% on all surfaces to 15.0% on Poa. Woods’ putt on the 72nd green at the 2008 The adage about putting on poa has U.S. Open, check out how much the ball always been that it ‘gets bumpy’ in the hops before going in the hole. afternoon. Empirically, we can see that But what statistical differences exist starting tee time directly impacts strokes comparing player performance on Poa gained putting numbers. annua greens compared to other surfaces? Typically, you would expect players in Is it really tougher to make putts on this the afternoon on the weekend to putt better, particular type of grass? And who are the simply because they are contending to win best performers on these greens on the that week’s golf tournament. Because of PGA TOUR? that, we only looked at data from the first There are more than a dozen PGA two rounds for this exercise. TOUR venues since 2015 whose greens When a player tees off between 6 a.m. contained at least some poa annua grass, and 10:59 a.m. local time on a course with according to weekly reports from the Golf poa annua greens, they average +0.095 Course Superintendents Association of Strokes Gained: Putting per round. When America. 15th Club combed through more teeing off from 11 a.m. through 4 p.m., that than 23,000 rounds of data to try and find number drops to -0.086, a differential of the answers. nearly two-tenths of a stroke per round. The difference when putting on Poa Make percentage between 5-10 feet tell a annua greens slightly different story Ð that green speeds

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 9 COLLEGES 2021 Big 12 Baseball Preview

the rotation is up in the air with someone like Incarnate Word graduate transfer Luke Taggart in the hunt to take that spot. Again, there are strong options here, but also some guys who have something to prove in a weekend role. The same can be applied if Jake Bennett or Horton end up in the rota- tion sooner rather than later. Star power: Peyton Graham The Sooners were off to an amazing start back in the spring, and Graham, a pre- mier true freshman at the time, was a big part of that. In addition to being a stable force at the hot corner, Graham was a ter- rific hitter, hitting .358 with eight doubles, three home runs and 10 RBIs. He also slugged .612, had a .457 OBP and tallied a 1.069 OPS. Graham is a mature, pure hitter and should have another strong season for Johnson’s club. Glue guys: Olds, a hard-nosed right hander, is an obvious glue guy this spring, but keep an eye on Tyler Hardman, Tanner Tredaway and catcher Justin Mitchell as well. Hardman has had a productive career for the Sooners and provides power in the line- up, Tredaway was climbing in terms of his draft stock before the 2020 campaign ended and is back and Mitchell is a veteran backstop … something that will pay divi- The Big 12 has a solid group of national title contenders led by Texas Tech dends throughout this ‘COVID’ season. Pick to click: Texas trio headlines packed Big 12 2021 Projected standings Oklahoma Sooners Give me Wyatt Olds. Olds tallied solid *Teams are listed in order of projected finish Head coach: Skip Johnson numbers through the first few weeks of the 2020 season with a 1.89 ERA in 19 By Kendall Rogers TEAM 2020 RECORD 2019 record: 33-23 (11-13 Big 12) The Big 12 could be on the verge of 2020 record: 14-4 innings, along with 29 strikeouts and eight walks. But now he goes from just one of having its best showing since 2017. 1. Texas Tech 16-3 Strengths: Oklahoma will have a stout the guys to the Friday night starter. Olds That year, the conference, which has 2. Texas 14-3 bullpen with right-hander Jason Ruffcorn has a mean streak, filthy stuff and a fastball seen its complexion change over the past 3. TCU 11-4 and others leading the charge, while the up to 94-95 with solid secondary stuff. I decade with the departures of Texas A&M, 4. West Virginia 11-5 offense, which was off to a nice start in the could be wrong, but put me down as some- Missouri and Nebraska, got seven teams to 5. Oklahoma State 13-5 spring, will be productive and experienced one who thinks he has a strong season. the NCAA postseason. 6. Oklahoma 14-4 this spring. Top newcomer: Cade Horton. This season, the Big 12 might be aim- 7. Baylor 10-6 The Sooners welcome back almost The Sooners have some talented young ing higher than ever for plenty of reasons. 8. Kansas State 10-7 every key player from their 2020 offense, players on this roster, but no one is more Though we have six teams from the league 9. Kansas 7-10 and welcome some big-time potential pro- projected to make the tournament, includ- ducers in Cade Horton, Brett Squires and heralded than the potential two-way stand- ing Texas Tech, TCU, Texas, West Virginia, others. The Sooners also are expected to be out. Horton put together a strong fall for Oklahoma State, Baylor and Kansas State Projected regional teams (6): an elite club from a defensive standpoint the Sooners, getting up to 95-96 mph with are not far behind at all. The Bears have Texas Tech, TCU, Texas, West Virginia, with experience behind the plate and his fastball on the mound, while also show- some incredibly intriguing pieces to its Oklahoma State, Oklahoma Brandon Zaragoza and Co., leading the ing light tower power at times at the plate. team, and it returns one of the league’s best Player of the year: way up the middle. Skip Johnson doesn’t like to anoint anyone overall players in Jared McKenzie. Dylan Neuse, OF, Texas Tech Question marks: the next coming, but Horton could be one Meanwhile, Kansas State has one of the Pitcher of the year: There are not many question marks of those guys as the season progresses. But nation’s premier ace pitchers in left-hander Ty Madden, RHP, Texas with this Oklahoma club. It is loaded. as they say … he’s still a freshman. Jordan Wicks, while the bar is also set very Freshman of the year: Tanner Witt, RHP, However, there is some uncertainty about Outlook: Let’s be honest, OU is one of high for hard-throwing right-hander Carson Texas (Oklahoma’s Cade Horton was the the weekend rotation. There’s zero doubt those teams that we’re going to look back Seymour, who makes the move from the initial choice, out for the year with Tommy the Sooners have some talent and experi- at the end of the season and wonder why backend of the bullpen to the starting rota- John surgery.) ence in the rotation, but how will they fare we didn’t rank them in the Top 25. That’s tion. Even Kansas has some promising Projected regional teams in 2021? my take, at least. pieces, including ace pitcher and right-han- No. 3 Texas Tech Wyatt Olds moves to the front-end of OU has a solid weekend rotation, a lot der Everhett Hazelwood. No. 9 Texas the rotation, junior college transfer left- of experience in the bullpen, and the lineup It should be an incredible season for the No. 10 TCU hander Dalton Fowler is a premium left- and defense are both expected to be Big 12, and here’s our in-depth look at the No. 14 West Virginia handed arm, but will he make a quick tran- improved across the board. That’s a recipe league: No. 20 Oklahoma State sition to the Big 12? And the third spot in for success.

10 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Kansas State Wildcats Head coach: Pete Hughes 2019 record: 25-33 (8-16) 2020 record: 10-7 Strengths: We’re banking on Seymour making a smooth transition to the weekend rotation, so we’re going with the rotation as the strength for this team. Both Wicks and Seymour have big-time velocity, while right-hander Connor McCullough is anoth- er talented arm to watch. McCullough has quality stuff with a fastball up to 89-91 mph, while husky Kasey Ford is another starting option with improved velocity and overall stuff. Question marks: I think the biggest thing is just how Kansas State handles expectations. Despite being picked second to the last in the Big 12, that is not exactly a horrible thing this spring with how loaded the conference is. This team has Omaha Sleeper type of potential, only if the weekend rotation pans out and the lineup continues to improve. Putting all the puzzle pieces together for an unproven program like K-State can be harder than you think. Texas has the talent to get to the College Worl Series Star power: LHP Jordan Wicks I mean, who else? Wicks put together a Who to keep an eye on With Nick Loftin gone from the lineup, as well. This coaching staff gets the strong summer and only improved his draft Baylor Bears I’ve got my eye on Andy Thomas and absolute most out of their players and that stock with an even better fall. Wicks is the Head coach: Steve Rodriguez Davion Downey. Thomas is a talented won’t change this season. total package. He has good measurables 2019 record: 35-19 (14-8) backstop with some serious power poten- with premium velocity from the left side 2020 record: 10-6 tial at the plate. But there’s no doubt he got Strengths: Like many teams around col- off to a slow start in 2020 with a .213 aver- lege baseball, the Bears will have plenty of age. I think he returns to his normal form experience at the back end of the bullpen this season. Meanwhile, Downey had been and in the offensive lineup. Bullpen-wise, an enigma before the 2020 season, where the Bears have a talented senior duo in he hit well over .350 and was on his way to Logan Freeman and Luke Boyd, while the a massive season. Can he continue that offense has a strong nucleus with Andy form in ’21? We’ll soon find out. Thomas, Davion Downey, Jared McKenzie Pick to click: and Chase Wehsener leading the charge. Give me left-hander Evan Godwin. There’s also plenty of talent in the week- Godwin had just OK numbers in the short- end rotation. ened 2020 season, but he has huge upside Question marks: for the Bears. Godwin was a little behind I feel pretty good about BU when it in the fall for various contact tracing rea- comes to the bullpen and offensive lineup. sons related to COVID, but he should be Both of those pieces are proven commodi- ready to roll this spring. Godwin will sit ties to me. But the starting rotation still has anywhere from 88-91 and up to 92 mph something to prove. Talented left-hander with his fastball, along with a quality Tyler Thomas was off to a strong start last curveball and slider that rate well from a spring, but all were appearances out of the metrics standpoint. bullpen. He’s now expected to be in the Top newcomer: Cam Caley starting rotation after having a strong fall. The Bears love Caley’s potential both There’s also Evan Godwin, who was terrif- as a hitter and pitcher. Caley was anywhere ic in the fall but who had a 5.50 ERA in 18 from 88-91 and up to 92 mph with his fast- innings last season. If those two guys have ball in the fall, along with good pitchability strong seasons, my concern about the rota- and impressive athleticism. Meanwhile, he tion is alleviated. showed an ability to be a mainstay in the Star power: Jared McKenzie offensive lineup with some power poten- We didn’t have a Freshman All- tial. He also has power and speed and American squad in 2020, but had we did, reminded Rodriguez of former Pepperdine McKenzie would’ve been an absolute slam two-way standout Aaron Brown. dunk to make it. McKenzie was outstand- Outlook: ing in my look at him at the Shriners The Bears have all the pieces not only College Classic last season. He had a to be an NCAA tournament team yet again, mature, smooth, left-handed stroke with but to make some noise in the tournament. some definite power potential. He hit .406 BU has some serious upside in the rotation with five RBIs, along with a .453 OBP and with Godwin and Thomas leading the way, .902 OPS. proven production and experience in the Glue guys: bullpen and the offense has a solid nucleus

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 11 — he was up to 94-95 mph with his fast- State certainly has a solid offensive lineup er has improved as well. 2021 NCBWA Division I Preseason Poll ball in the fall. He also continues to com- returning, but the season hinges on the suc- Glue guys: In a season like this that prom- mand four pitches. Though we narrowly cess of Wicks and Seymour in the weekend ises to be challenging, it’s important to Rank School 2020 Final Rank sided with UT’s Ty Madden as our top rotation. This team will go the way they have seniors, and Kansas has several of 1Florida 1 prospect in the Big 12, some high-level go. Stay tuned. them with right-hander Ryan Cyr and posi- 2 UCLA 2 scouts actually prefer Wicks. tion players James Cosentino and Brett 3 Vanderbilt 8 Glue guys: The rest of the pack Vosik leading the way. Cyr had bone chips 4 Texas Tech 5 We’ve talked so much about the pitch- Kansas Wildcats removed from his arm during the offseason 5Ole Miss 4 ing staff with this team for obvious rea- Head coach: Ritch Price and is expected to start on Friday with a 6 Louisville 6 sons, but the Wildcats do have some quali- 2019 record: 32-26 (12-12) fastball up to 91-93 mph, while Cosentino 7 Mississippi State 12 ty glue guys from an offensive standpoint. 2020 record: 7-10 (0-0) needs to bounce back from a slow start in 8 Arkansas 15 9 Texas 29 Zach Kokoska was off to a great start last Strengths: Experience will be a huge key the spring and Vosik is coming off an 10 Miami (FL) 3 spring, Cam Thompson is a veteran with a for this team, and the weekend rotation’s injury that sidelined him last year. 11 NC State 11 consistent offensive approach and can draw potential is another strength. Ryan Cyr, if Pick to click: 12 TCU 28 walks and Dylan Phillips hits for some he can stay healthy, will be a force in the Though he had a 5.23 ERA in the short- 13 LSU 19 serious power. I’m also expecting Terry rotation, while Everhett Hazelwood is the ened spring season, Hazelwood is still a 14 UC Santa Barbara NR Spurlin to have a much better season than bell cow if he can put all the pieces togeth- big-time arm with unbridled potential. The 15 Virginia NR the .210 average he put together last spring. er. Then, on Sundays, you have a guy like talented right hander was strong in the fall 16 Florida State 13 Pick to click: veteran left-hander Eli Davis, who’s finally with a fastball ranging 90-94 and up to 95 17 Arizona NR RHP Carson Seymour. Though Wicks is completely healthy and will show excellent mph, while he has a good slider and devel- 18 Georgia Tech NR a proven commodity and likely first-round command of four offerings. The bullpen is oping changeup. A three-pitch mix with 19 East Carolina 18 pick, the hard-throwing right-hander still also intriguing with Jonah Ulane and good command could lead to not only great 20 Tennessee 23 has some proving to do. Seymour has Nathan Barry leading the way. Barry is a numbers this spring, but also a drastically 21 West Virginia NR struggled with his command in the past, lefty with a hard-nosed approach and com- improved draft stock. 22 Oklahoma 10 but there are signs that he’s ready to rid of mand of multiple pitches. Top newcomer: Maui Ahuna 23 South Carolina NR that bugaboo. The righty was impressive in Question marks: Ritch Price has ties to unique places, 24 Georgia 7 the fall, sitting 92-95 mph with his fastball, The Jayhawks might have some poten- Hawaii being one of them. That is how he 25 Auburn 21 while also getting up to 97-98 at times. The tial from an offensive standpoint, but it’s a landed a premier high school recruit like continued development of his hard slider unit with a lot to prove. KU got off to a Ahuna in Lawrence, Kan. Ahuna is a 6- and changeup makes him a likely breakout slow start offensively last spring, and sev- foot, 160-pounder, who certainly has room candidate. eral returning hitters must rise to the occa- to get bigger, stronger and faster, but Top newcomer: Nick Goodwin sion. With that said, catcher Anthony already has good speed, a strong arm, out- The Wildcats have several bats to watch Tulimero has the ability to put together a standing instincts and impressive talent this spring, but no one from the newcomer strong season at the plate, while a newcom- from a defensive standpoint. He’s expected class impressed Hughes and Co., more in er like Tavian Josenberger has a chance to to make a huge impact this spring. the fall than Goodwin. Goodwin can play make an immediate impact. Josenberger is Outlook: in the infield or outfield and has a strong a solid runner and has a chance to hit lead Kansas has some positives from an frame and athletic build. He has impressive off entering the season. offensive standpoint this spring, but its suc- bat speed and has a chance to hit for some Star power: If the Jayhawks can head into cess will depend on the pitching staff tak- Globe Life Field to Host Big 12, SEC legitimate power this season. the later innings with a lead, chances are ing a step forward. Of all starters expected College Baseball Showdown Next Month Outlook: good they can hold on to it with redshirt to be in the weekend rotation, none had an Tournament to feature top teams from the Could this finally be the year Kansas junior right-hander Jonah Ulane serving as ERA under four during the shortened sea- SEC, Big 12 conferences State takes a step forward in the national the ultimate stopper. Ulane did not allow a son. It’s a brutal year in the Big 12, but if “We’re certainly excited to be a part of picture? The Wildcats have not reached the run in limited innings last spring, and he the rotation has success, this Kansas team the first year of this tournament,” TCU NCAA tournament since 2013 — the year has electric stuff to boot. In the fall, he was can not only finish higher in the league baseball coach Jim Schlossnagle said. “It’s it reached the Super Regional round and up to 93-95 mph with his fastball, along standings, it can make the NCAA tourna- going to be better than anyone anticipated. faced off against Oregon State. Kansas with good metrics on the offering. His slid- ment. Having been in the facility and seeing what a first-class ballpark it is, there’s going to Preseason All-Conference Team be no better way to bring college baseball back than this tournament.” Pos. Name Class School Stats/Notes Capacity is expected to be between C Andy Thomas Jr. Baylor .335-4-32; polished hitter with gap power 14,000 and 15,000 fans. Tickets are on sale 1B Tyler Hardman Jr. Oklahoma .306-6-42; prototypical corner IF power bat and can be purchased through the Rangers’ 2B Brian Klein Jr. Texas Tech .315-3-57; steady contact bat, on-base skills, D' website. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 3B Cameron Thompson Sr. Kansas State .275-5-30; 3-year starter, good approach for youth 13 and under with weekend pass- SS Nick Loftin Jr. Baylor .323-6-41; slick-fielding SS, does it all on field es priced at $50 for adults and $30 for OF Dylan Neuse Jr. Texas Tech .298-8-51; versatile athlete w/ pop, 26 XBH, 18 SB youth 13 and under. Tickets for each day OF Zach Kokoska Jr. Kansas State .330-8-31; well-rounded all-around player/hitter are good for admission to all three games. OF Hunter Wolfe Sr. TCU .310-6-24; played SS in '19, speed plays well Decker, the Rangers’ executive vice DH Eric Kennedy So. Texas .310-2-28; pure hitter profile with gap pop president of sports and entertainment, said UT Kaden Polcovich Jr. Oklahoma State .273-12-38*; versatile athlete, can play/hit all over the stadium will have similar COVID-19 SP Cade Cavalli Jr. Oklahoma 3.28, 60.1 IP, 59:35; was 2-way player, big arm policies in place as it has had for previous SP Bryce Elder Jr. Texas 2.93, 83 IP, 86:33; competes w/ sinker/slider events. SP Levi Prater Jr. Oklahoma 3.26, 80 IP, 97:43; live-armed LHP w/ 3 pitches Decker added that the Rangers’ inten- SP Parker Scott Jr. Oklahoma State 2.18, 45.1 IP, 51:14; good command, solid stuff tion is “to host this tournament for years to RP Jason Ruffcorn Sr. Oklahoma 2.43 ERA, 37 IP, 11 SV; reliable in back-end of 'pen come.” *Transfer, stats at Northwest Florida State (JUCO) Texas Tech is the highest-ranked pro- gram at No. 3 followed by Ole Miss (No. Player of the Year: Nick Loftin, ss, Baylor 6), Mississippi State (No. 7), Arkansas Pitcher of the Year: Cade Cavalli, rhp, Oklahoma (No. 8), Texas (No. 9) and TCU (No. 10) Freshman of the Year: Bryce Osmond, rhp, Oklahoma State in the D1 Baseball preseason poll.

12 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com COLLEGES WITH BO CARTER College Football News and Notes

(Texas) College travelled to Trinity (Texas). Happy birthdays to NFF College Hall Trinity prevailed 35-24 in a high-scoring of Fame members Feb. 9 Rod Cason, tussle. The NAIA Mid-States Football Danny White, Dan Ross, Feb. 10 Dick Association also kicked off its delayed Anderson, Jim Stillwagon, Feb. 12 Brent campaign last Saturday as St. Xavier (Ill.) Jones, Scott Thomas, Lincoln Kennedy, met St. Francis (Ill.) and St. Ambrose trav- Feb. 13 Ruben Brown, Feb. 15 elled to Roosevelt. The Mid-South (a spry 81), Ted Brown, Marc Wilson, Conference also featured Reinhardt at Darnell Green… Point (Ga.), with Reinhardt winning with a Dayton and Eastern Illinois will meet in bruising, 392-rushing performance 36-3, a home-and-home series in 2021 and ’25 and Union (Ky.) at Bluefield. Pittsburg …Charleston Southern and The Citadel State edged West Texas A&M 42-28 in the will play a two-game series in 2024 and final NCAA Division II contest last fall on ‘26…BYU and Utah State have extended Nov. 21, 2020. their series through 2026…Arkansas will Feb. 3 was National Woman and Girls meet in-state rival Arkansas State for the in Sports Celebration Day along with first time in 2025 and has UAB slated for a NCAA Signing Day, and in conjunction 2024 game…Alcorn State is opting out of Nike and the NFL have pledged $5 million the ’21 spring season to follow COVID-19 to help jumpstart women’s flag football as protocols and to avoid possible stoppages a national varsity sport for high school and in play because of the virus…Catholic Tanner Mordecai is transferring to SMU colleges. College women’s intramural Polytechnic U. in Los Angeles is about to teams have competed in flag football since ramp up classes, and some gridiron fans in Hall of Fame designated last weekend are the 1950s. the LA area are hoping the noted STEM NFF College Hall of Fame members NFF College Hall of Fame Facts institution might make a run at a football Peyton Manning of Tennessee, Charles Some notable birthdates in NFF program. Its “sister school” Catholic U. of Woodson of Michigan and Calvin Johnson College Hall of Fame annals in the Feb 9- America resumed football in NCAA of Georgia Tech along with Alan Faneca of 15 time period are Feb. 9 (1950) Rod Division III in 1977 and has an all-time LSU, John Lynch of Stanford, contributor Cason, San Angelo, Texas; (1952) Danny bowl record of 2-0-1 with a 1937 Orange Bill Nunn of West Virginia State, Tom White, Mesa, Ariz.; (1957) Dan Ross, Bowl triumph over Ole Miss…Several Flores of Pacific (Calif.), and Drew Malden, Mass.; Feb. 10 (1946) Dick football programs have delayed or may Pearson of Tulsa. Anderson, Midland, Mich.; Feb. 11 (1882) postpone their spring football workouts and The Souper Bowl of Caring and John Tigert, Nashville, Tenn.; (1938) Jim spring games due to COVID-19 uncertain- Fighthunger.com provided 14 million Sochor, Oklahoma City, Okla.; (1949) Jim ties. Texas tentatively will play its Orange- meals for underserved families nationwide Stillwagon, Mt. Vernon, Ohio; Feb. 12 White game/scrimmage on April 24 while (1885) Frank Murray, Maynard, Mass.; Texas A&M has slated its spring contest BO CARTER through efforts of the NFL, Super Bowl LV (1895) Dick Romney, , Utah; for April 17 if health protocols allow. [email protected] and championship sponsor. Astronauts on Wednesday at 10:25 a.m. (1925) Lee Tressel, Ada, Ohio; (1963) Florida State and South Carolina fans Brent Jones, Santa Clara, Calif.; (1964) came together to donate more than $34,000 Super Bowl¨ LV updates include a 2-0 (CST) Centers for Disease Control and Scott Thomas, , Texas; (1971) to help build a new home for former USC record for Tampa Bay after two Super Prevention leaders will have an out-of-this Lincoln Kennedy, York, Pa.; Feb. 13 (1919) lineman and grad transfer to FSU Janarius Bowl appearances, a 2-2 mark for Kansas world conversation via satellite with U.S. Eddie Robinson, Jackson, La.; (1933) Robinson whose mother was left homeless City. Tampa Bay QB Tom Brady is an indi- astronauts Dr. Shannon Walker (three Kenneth Dement, Poplar Bluff, Mo.; (1972) after a house fire…NFL Tampa Bay vidual-NFL-best 7-3 in 10 Super Bowl degrees from Rice and Owls football and Ruben Brown, Englewood, N.J.; Feb. 14 Buccaneers TE Rob Gronkowski of appearances with the New England Patriots baseball fan) and Dr. Kate Rubins (UC San (1913) Woody Hayes, Clifton, Ohio; Arizona relayed the news about compli- and the Buccaneers. The AFC maintained Diego, Stanford, and a fellow college (1919) George Kerr, Brookline, Mass.; mentary tickets for Super Bowl LV for its advantage over the NFC 15-9 in the last sports enthusiast) aboard the International (1973) Steve McNair, Mt. Olive, Miss.; Florida area healthcare heroes with stirring 24 title tests, and New England during the Space Station on space, public health, Feb. 15 (1897) Earl “Red” Blaik, Detroit, thank-you and encouraging messages for 2003 and ’04 seasons remains as the last women in STEM, the outer space experi- Mich.; (1920) Endicott Peabody, Lawrence, the groups…NFL Dallas Cowboys fan team to win back-to-back Super Bowls. TB ence, and more. For additional information Mass.; (1929) Fred Martinelli, Columbus, (though he has seen just one game all-time head coach Bruce Arians also became the about how to join and view, please access Ohio; (1931) John Michels, Philadelphia, in person) and Baylor Medical of oldest mentor to win a Super Bowl at the NASA.gov or CDC.gov. Pa.; (1940) John Hadl, Lawrence, Kan.; Dallas physician first responder Dr. Clifton age of 68. Move over Vanderbilt baseball pitching (1957) Ted Brown, High Point, N.C.; Molak was one of the 7,500 first respon- Down judge Sarah Thomas of the ace Kumar Rocker (6-5, 245 pounds, son (1957) Marc Wilson, Bremerton, Wash.; ders endowed with game tickets for Super University of Mobile where she starred as a of NFF College Hall of Fame lineman and (1960) Darnell Green, Houston, Texas. Bowl LV. The Cowboys also paid for Dr. student-athlete was the first woman to offi- FWAA Outland Trophy winner Tracy Notable anniversary death dates for Molak’s flight and provided lodging and ciate a Super Bowl Sunday night. She start- Rocket of Auburn). Get ready in 2022 Hall of Famers are Feb. 9 (1994) Bud gift certificates for the dedicated fighter of ed his college career as an official for baseball for Ole Miss combo sports’ defen- Wilkinson, St. Louis, Mo.; (1998) George COVID-19 and many other diseases..Frisco Conference USA and became the first sive line-baseball player Tywone Malone Cafego, Knoxville, Tenn.; Feb. 12 (1959) (Texas) Dr Pepper Stadium will host the woman official to work a college bowl (6-4, 310 pounds) who inked with the Charlie Daly, Pacific Grove, Calif.; Feb. 13 2021 State Fair Diamond Classic and the game in the 2009 Little Caesars Pizza Rebels for both sports last week. (1945) Bill Mallory, in combat in Italy; Lone Star Diamond Classic to benefit Bowl. QB Russell Wilson of the Seattle The first college football regulation (1996) Charlie Conerly, Memphis, Tenn.; HBCU baseball and overall athletics’ pro- Seahawks, NC State and Wisconsin also contest during the spring semester since the (2016) Johnny Lattner, Oak Park, Ill.; Feb. grams March 26-28. Competing teams will received the 2021 NFL Walter Peyton Man early 1900s when several current members 15 (1963) , Morgantown, be UAPB, Southern (Baton Rouge), of the Year Award for his charitable and of the Pac-12 Conference had separate W.Va.; (2013) Kenneth Dement, Cape Grambling, and Prairie View A&M. community public service. rugby and football campaigns occurred last Girardeau, Mo. (continued on page 14) Newest members on the Pro Football Saturday when NAIA contenders Austin

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 13 Lawrence Technological U, tabbed former AD Joe Karlgaard moderated a NACDA traditional season-ending games for all eligible members to compete in confer- defensive coordinator Avante D. Mitchell social justice and equity webinar with pan- Michigan and Ohio State and Iowa- ence men’s and women’s basketball post- as new head coach…New Tennessee head elists Auburn AD Allen Greene, Vanderbilt Nebraska (Friday after Thanksgiving) season tourneys unless they have opted out coach Josh Heupel's contract will run AD Dr. Candice Story Lee, Kansas City along with two neutral site clashes Ð of regular season activity previously…The through Jan. 31, 2027…Jackson State foot- AD Brandon Martin, and North Carolina Illinois-Nebraska in Dublin, Ireland, on Atlantic Sun Conference has applied for an ball and new head coach Deion Sanders are Central AD Ingrid Wicker McRee with dis- Aug. 28 and Notre Dame-Wisconsin at automatic NCAA qualifying bid for the pausing all football offseason activities and cussion of a NACDA Black AD Alliance... Chicago’s Soldier Field on Sept. 25... 2022 season with possible varsity lacrosse spring practices due to COVID-19 condi- …Louisiana AD Dr. Bryan Maggard is …McNeese State AD Heath Schroyer affiliations with the ASUM and Robert tions. The Tigers are scheduled to renew considered a solid candidate for the Boise expressed optimism about the future of the Morris, Utah, State Hampton, intercollegiate football activity on Sept. 5 State AD’s opening but has not been con- Southland Conference under commissioner Jacksonville, Bellarmine, Air Force, Detroit against Florida A&M in a neutral site con- tacted about the similar position at UCF.. Tom Burnett. The SLC is planning a Mercy, among others. test at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.Former ..Michigan AD Warde Manuel again voiced unique, double round-robin slate of 10 con- The Bowlseason.com website has dis- Florida and South Carolina head coach confidence in Wolverines head coach Jim ference contests among the six football played a new photo gallery with numerous Will Muschamp is going to Georgia as a Harbaugh and the coach’s new contract... playing schools this autumn…Mid-Eastern postseason games and highlights from each special consultant to head coach Kirby …Iowa tabbed associate AD for student- Athletic Conference commissioner Dennis of the 26 post-2020 encounters…Bleacher Smart..LSU defensive coordinator Daronte athlete academic services Liz Tovar as the Thomas is optimistic that the loop will Report selected its winners Ð teams and Janes had his multi-year contract confirmed UI executive campus-wide officer for open its 2020 regulation spring season Feb. individuals - for the 2020-21 college bowl …Former Stanford strength and condition- diversity, equity and inclusion…FIU added 20. The Air Force Reserve has been desig- season and saluted the undefeated teams ing head coach Shannon Turley has accept- former Franklin Pierce head coach Jonathan nated as title sponsor of the MEAC men’s prior to the postseason Ð Alabama, Ohio ed the same post at Colorado…New Garbar as university’s women's soccer head and women’s basketball championships... State, Coastal Carolina, San Jose State, and Kentucky offensive coordinator Liam Coen coach…Longtime Florida women's soccer …Southeastern Conference commissioner Cincinnati. CCU, SJSU and Cincy enjoyed and running backs coach Jermal Singleton head coach Becky Lund Burleigh will Greg Sankey spoke of the success of the the first unbeaten regular seasons in their completed their two-year contract negotia- retire after her 26thseason at the helm in SEC in holding its 2020 women’s soccer school’s football annals. tions with compensation packages and 2021…Some recent public postings for tournament as well as the ’20 SEC Football Former LSU TE Arik Gilbert is transfer- bonus clauses....Alabama named Jay athletics supervisory positions among col- Championship Game without major glitch- ring to Florida…DB Rayshad Williams is Graham special teams coordinator and tight leges and universities include AD at es due to health and safety protocols…A moving from UCLA to Texas Tech for the ends coach…Texas Tech director of foot- Midland U. (Neb.), senior associate AD for recent financial report examined the SEC’s ’21 campaign…Former Wisconsin quarter- ball player personnel Aaron Burks is leav- development at Bradley and associate AD dramatic rise in payouts to member schools back Jack Coan made his ’21 transfer to ing the program to enter private business for compliance at San Jose State. Applicants since the 2000 fiscal year ($6.6 million) to Notre Dame official last month…Former and to spend more time with his family. may apply online through the college web- 2010 ($19.5 million) to 2020 ($45.5 mil- Tennessee linebacker Nyles Gaddy is trans- Tech head coach Matt Wells reported that sites or through the Athletic DirectorU.com lion)….The Atlantic Sun Conference is ferring to Jackson State…Florida State QB all of Tech’s 2021 signing class came with- portal…The D1.ticker.com has examined hosting a Feb. 23 news conference to detail McKenzie Milton has joined the NCAA out official visits to the university’s the application and hiring processes for 2021 football scheduling and other aspects transfer portal cavalcade…Alabama’s 2021 Lubbock campus…Oregon defensive coor- new ADs at UCF, Kent State, Northwestern, of its enlarged membership…The football recruiting class has been rated No. dinator Tim DeRuyter has agreed to a UC Davis, Duke, William & Mary, Temple, Richmond (Va.) Times-Dispatch newspaper 1 by ESPN after February signings. Ohio three-year contract…SMU head coach Tulsa, California Baptist, and Monmouth. highlighted the successful, 24-year tenure State, Clemson, LSU, Oregon, and Texas Sonny Dykes noted that his name might DHR International will is assisting of retiring Atlantic Coast Conference com- A&M rounded out the Top Five successes have been mentioned in the mix for the Northwestern in its new AD’s search while missioner John Swofford…Several media by recruiting experts…Former Texas A&M Tennessee head coaching post, but he UCF has employed Turnkey ZRG for both outlets have observed a need for frugality RB Connor Blumrick has moved onto remains very content as the Mustangs men- its AD and head football coaching search- in the remuneration clauses for the new Virginia Tech for his football future... tor…Florida A&M head coach Willie es…Kent State has begun its formal search Pac-12 Conference commissioner to allow …Remembering Mississippi State quarter- Simmons denied rumors that he was mov- for a new AD with Carr Sports Consulting for more distribution of funds among Pac- backs of the 1970s as well as 1980-83 ing to coach running backs at South Carolina handling potential candidates…Wisconsin 12 schools. The conference has retained standout – “One of the toughest …Texas recruiting football director Bryan chancellor Dr. Rebecca Blank outlined the TurnkeyZRG to in the commission- hombres I ever coached” Ð late MSU head Carrington is leaving for a position at USC challenges to funding UW athletics, hous- er’s search and hopes to have the new coach and Texas Sports Hall of Fame with the possibility of some on-field coach- ing and student unions during the 2020-21 leader in place by April or May…The member Emory Bellard - and the only QB ing involvement…Louisville safeties coach health emergency... …Nevada president America East Conference released the for- to start and defeat LSU four consecutive ShaDon Brown is moving to West Virginia and former Nevada governor Brian mat for its men’s and women’s basketball seasons. The 1970s list includes: as co-defensive coordinator under Sandoval expressed the desire to make championships during the first week in 1970 Ð (played in NFL, transfer Mountaineers head coach Neal Brown strategic investments in facilities for March. To be eligible, teams must have from Texas Tech), Billy Baker, Jay Hughes …McNeese State defensive coordinator Nevada Wolf Pack athletics …Arizona competed against 12 NCAA Division I 1971 Ð Hal Chealander, Billy Baker, Grady Brown will coach cornerbacks this State baseball head coach Tracy Smith gar- opponents in 2020-21…Lamar has com- Ronnie Everett, David Strauss season for the Houston Cougars...Marcus nered a two-year contract extension pleted its Southland Conference departure 1972 Ð (future MSU head Gold, former Texas A&M defensive back through the ’23 season…Dallas Christian buyout of $300,000 to begin membership coach), Melvin Barkum, Mike Monaghan and head coach at Patrick Mahomes’ alma College athletics has an open position for a in the Western Athletic Conference in 1973 Ð Rockey Felker, Melvin Barkum, mater Whitehouse (Texas) HS the last three sports information director.. …Kansas 2021-22…The ACC men’s and women’s Mike Monaghan seasons, has been appointed head coach at State head men’s basketball coach Bruce basketball postseason tourney definitely 1974 Ð Rockey Felker, Bruce Threadgill Wylie (Texas) East HS. Weber apparently will return for the 2021- will be played in Greensboro, N.C…The (played in the CFL and American Airlines’ Hometowns of more 2021 college head 22 season after guiding one of the youngest Atlantic 10 Conference is making special pilot), Johnny Booty (yes, the patriarch of coaches Ð UCF: Open; UCLA: Chip Kelly, squads in K-State history through challeng- postseason regulations for teams with the famous Booty football family, transfer Dover, N.H.; Utah: Kyle Whittingham, San ing national health and personnel times this fewer conference games played due to to MSU from Arkansas after the 1973 sea- Luis Obispo, Calif.; Utah State: Blake season. He was complimented for his car- postponements and cancellations…The son, became a minister and moved back to Anderson, Jonesboro, Ark.; Vanderbilt: ing attitude for school and student-athletes. SEC Network noted there was some specu- Shreveport, La. Ð the rest is history) Clark Lea, Nashville, Tenn. The Ivy League has been contacted by lation about Alabama AD Greg Byrne 1975 Ð Bruce Threadgill, Norman Joseph Penn State director of athletics Sandy prominent Ivy League alumni sports execu- becoming commissioner of the Pac-12 (later college head coach), James Harris Barbour met with the media members and tives such as NBA Brooklyn Nets owner Conference. Byrne previously was AD at 1976 Ð Bruce Threadgill, Steve Wohlert noted a reduction of the projected fiscal Joseph Tsai, Bruin Sports Capital Founder Arizona. Former West Virginia AD and 1977 Ð Bruce Threadgill, Dwayne Brown year 2021 budget deficit from $90-100 mil- and CEO George Pyne and Nike executive NCAA vice president Oliver Luck along 1978 Ð Dave Marler (future CFL star), lion in earlier summaries to approximately vice president of Global Sports Marketing with Oregon AD Rob Mullens and Dwayne Brown $25 million…Arizona State AD Ray John Slusher about the resumption of full- Colorado AD Rick George also may be in 1979 Ð Tony Black (transferred to SMU), Anderson got a contract extension from the scale varsity athletics in ’21…The Big Ten the running…Several conferences have told Dwayne Brown, Gary Schaffhauser, Robby university through Feb. 11, 2026…Rice Conference schedule for 2021 will feature members that membership blyaws require Mink

14 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Rutgers men’s basketball student-athlete help utilize the Rooney Rule, which helped because of COVID-19 concerns…Hawai’i lished a fundraising arm to revive the mens Geo Baker responded to a Tweet by Baylor two minority head coaches gain NFL head athletics has allocated $5 million to update and women’s swimming and diving pro- head men’s basketball head coach Scott coaching positions out of seven post-2020 its on-campus Clarence TC Ching Complex grams …Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium Drew about how seriously student-athletes season openings… NFL Pittsburgh Steelers for 2021 home football contests…Final has become one of the first facilities to ink in all sports are taking precautions against owner Dan Rooney Jr. continues to work seating capacity is to be determined... with TopGolf for summer stadium golf COVID-19 and team quarantines…Some with NFL and team executives to help uti- …Walgreens (major national sports spon- experiences for fans in July in Minneapolis of the top February 3 football signees for lize the Rooney Rule, which helped two sor and traditional drug store chain) named …EA Sports has released a new version of Charlotte were safety Jon Alexander and minority head coaches gain NFL head former Starbucks COO Rosalind Brewer as its collegiate game, and it is named aptly DT Joshua Bailey, for FIU WR Tyrese coaching positions out of seven post-2020 its next CEO in March, and she becomes EA College Sports…California’s Cameron Chambers and DL Savion Collins, for season openings…Frank Clark, former the only Black female leading a Fortune Institute for Student-Athlete Development Florida Atlantic DE Dwight Dassaw and Michigan standout, was lauded for resign- 500 company today…Current WWE presi- has initiated The California Way Ð a sup- CB Jabhari Hill, and Middle Tennessee OL ing with the Kansas City Chiefs after his dent Nick Khan spoke of Tier I television port platform for student-athletes’ growth Shun Bodiford and OL Jacqui Graham... 2019 option season and starring for the rights for football and other sports through at UC Berkeley and in future careers ...Mississippi State career kicking specialist 2020 AFC champs…Former Iowa football his previous experience as co-head of tele- ....Iowa’s Senate has a bill on the floor to record holder Jace Christmann has enrolled and baseball standout, MLB player and vision operations for Creative Arts Agency enact names, images and likenesses’ com- at Florida as a grad transfer for ’21..Former manager Bo Porter is aiding hundreds of …TurnkeyZRG noted the importance of pensation beginning for student-athletes in North Carolina QB Jace Ruder is going to youngsters through his Future All-Stars fundraising talents for the upcoming gener- summer 2021…The INFLCR student-ath- North Texas as a ’21 grad transfer…With Development Academy and is a commenta- ation of ADs and the challenges of funding lete experience group added a multi-year the return of hundreds of student-athletes tor on broadcasts for the MLB Washington sports with today’s wide range of entertain- agreement with DePaul athletics…Ole receiving an extra season of eligibility, sev- Nationals…Under Armour is completing ment venues…Amazon founder and long- Miss athletics has renewed its marketing, eral of the estimated 1,500-plus scholarship its on-field licensing agreement with the time college sports supporter Jeff Bezos is broadcast and promotional agreements with football entries in the NCAA transfer por- NFL…The Tampa Bay Bucs had a unique stepping down as CEO after founding Centerplate with multiyear pacts...Cal State tal since Aug. 1, 2020, have been unable to layout for their official Super Bowl LV Amazon in 1994. He will remain on the Bakersfield softball will not play during the land positions at new schools Ð FBS or team photo last week at Raymond James group’s board as executive chair. Bezos is a ’21 season due to health and safety con- otherwise. The total in the portal since last Stadium. Princeton grad Ð the school that played cerns …Auburn softball introduced its August with scholarship and non-scholar- Oregon State athletics has received an Rutgers in the inaugural college football 11,000 square-foot Gregg E. Heim Player ship student-athletes included for all anonymous gift for $45 million-plus for the game in 1869 Ð and helped Amazon report Development Center with new batting tun- NCAA and NAIA divisions is approaching Reser Stadium west side renovation project a record profit of $100 billion over the last nels, a netting system,team meeting spaces, 3,000…Texas received a verbal commit- ....OSU now has raised $64.5 million of the quarter of 2020…New Mexico men’s bas- and state-of-the-art pitching machines...The ment for the 2022 season from Klein $85 million in private donations on for the ketball may have to cancel the remainder New Mexico Senate has introduced SB Bill (Texas) Cain HS standout RB Jaydon Blue $153 million needed for the entire stadium of the season due a severe COVID-19 out- 94 to allow student-athletes in the state to …Oklahoma DB Brendan Radley-Hiles project…Michigan State athletics has been break among the squad and staff...Omaha’s profit from names, images and likenesses. entered the NCAA transfer portal last week promised $42 million from a private donor baseball schedule is one of most ambitious There is no definite timeline for its vote or ...Former Argyle (Texas) HS QB CJ Rogers for athletics facilities and scholarships..San in school history with the likes of home- implementation…Kansas athletics is work- is headed to Baylor as an approved walkon Jose State athletics received a $1 million town rival Creighton, Kansas, Wichita ing to alleviate a $30 million shortfall due freshman…Tight ends Nolan Matthews of donation from Kevin and Sandy Swanson State, and South Dakota State, among oth- to the pandemic but expects $70 million in Arizona State and Simon Gonzales from for seating at the renovated Spartan Soccer ers…Georgia Southern athletics inaugurat- 2021 fiscal year revenues. In fiscal year Texas Tech have transferred to SMU and Complex and for the football program. ed lifetime giving recognition through each 2020 KU athletics netted a $5 million sur- will vie in spring practices…Former They also made a $1 million grant to SJSU of its official donations’ portals…Auburn’s plus…Last week the University of Mass Tennessee OL Jahmir Johnson is transfer- athletics in 2019…Purdue’s radio broadcast new $91.9 million football practice and reported 250-plus COVID-19 cases among ring to Texas A&M…Florida men’s basket- team is has utilized several innovative training facility will have a unique flight the student body and went into temporary ball student-athlete Keyontae Johnson had methods of airing men’s basketball games simulator and two recording studios...UIC’s lockdown. It was not known if UMass ath- multiple tests run and at least six medical in 2020-21 through remote studios and has introduced a new mascot, Sparky...New letics would be placed in temporary quar- schools in consultation, and it was deter- with multiple live game monitors…La Mexico State’s women's volleyball squad antine for contact tracing…Lindenwood mined that COVID-19 conditions did not Salle athletics and adidas have signed a will play home games at UTEP's Memorial (Mo.) is contemplating starting NCAA lead to his recent illness…WKU 6-11 bas- multiyear partnership starting with the Gym for the rest of the season due to Division men's hockey in 2022-23...Several ketball center Charles Bassey has gotten 2021-22 season with a special assist in the health and protocol concerns…Colorado schools are anticipating the adoption for some All-America mention from his show- agreement via Leona Marketing Group.. athletics is looking at a $43 million decline use by the federal government of the new ings in 2021 skirmishes…Texas A&M …The Missouri Board of Curators is com- in revenue from its fiscal year 2020 figures Johnson & Johnson anti-COVID-19 vac- received yet another late verbal commit- pleting plans for a $1.55 million for HOK and anticipates a drop of 50-60 percent cine. The medication requires just one vac- ment for the 2022 squad by Haslet (Texas) to design and engineer the Tigers new from the Pac-12 Conference’s allocation of cination and was proven 90 percent effec- Northwest Eaton HS offensive lineman indoor football training facility with an $32.6 million in ’20…East Carolina athlet- tive in public testing…Colorado State ath- Hunter Erb. upgraded, 100-yard turf playing surface ics has decided to prioritize financial sta- letics posted a $1.9 million surplus in fiscal NFF College Hall of Fame standout and estimated total cost of $31.6 million.. bility, competitive excellence and to pro- year 2020 with a major 14 percent increase Marlin Briscoe of Omaha U. was remem- …Nebraska athletics Tweeted a memorable vide the optimum assistance possible for in ticket sales for men’s basketball…South bered for his dual stardom in football and photo of Memorial Stadium Dr. Tom the student-athlete life experience during Carolina athletics projects that it might be basketball for the then-Indians (now nick- Osborne Field after 11 inches of snow with current challenging times…Learfield IMG 2026 before the department can make a full named Mavericks) from 1963-67 and ster- the “N” logo in the middle cleared of the College and The Doug Williams Center financial recovery from fiscal year 2021 ling NFL career from 1968-76 in a post precipitation...There are 32 total schools have formed a strategic partnership to …The Citadel is seeking new logos and last week...Former Oklahoma State and and winter sports programs affected by emphasize diversity, equity and inclusion branding and will welcome public sugges- West Alabama standout Tyreek Hill was pauses or temporary shutdowns due to educational efforts among Learfield IMG tions…Oklahoma State had a fiscal year featured in a national story about develop- COVID-19 and new strains of the virus College employees…The Yale men’s 2020 surplus of $1.1 million and is seeking ment over the last four seasons as a player nationally over the last seven days…South lacrosse team looks as if it will cancel the to minimize a possible $25 million deficit for the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Carolina State has canceled the rest of its spring season after roughly 40 student-ath- for the ’21 fiscal year. Chiefs…Legendary Super Bowl and col- 2020-21 women’s basketball WBB season letes opted not to enroll for the spring The Wall Street Journal noted several lege/professional sports’ natural field land- …Georgia Tech men’s and women’s bas- semester…Overtime is starting a semi-pro- external factors leading to Clemson’s 79-7 scape legend George Toma was back in ketball teams continue to scramble to re- fessional boys basketball league that will overall record (.952 winning percentage) Tampa, Fla., last month to prepare the schedule games for ESPN and ACC provide compensation to high school under head coach Dabo Swinney and two playing surface for Super Bowl LV. Toma Network telecasts before the ACC tourney prospects…Georgia Tech athletics has been national titles. Along with Swinney’s savvy is a spry 91 years old…NFL Pittsburgh …Pennsylvania athletics brought back stu- navigating several live and streamed events the publication cited national-recognized Steelers owner Dan Rooney Jr. continues to dent-athletes and coaches to campus last through Live Like, WMT Digital and marketing techniques, massive fan support, work with NFL and team executives to week for the first time since March 2020 Satisfi Labs…La Salle athletics has estab- (continued on page 16)

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 15 the ever-present IPTAY Club, and success long web story about the rise and reasons Secretary of State in this case…The Schedule with New Year’s Six Games breeding success as major factors…Veteran for worldwide popularity among college NACDA virtual mid-winter meetings fea- (All Games Televised by ESPN, EST sports writer and nationally-honored David students of eSports. tured a general session with NCAA chief Friday, Dec. 31, 2021 Barron has retired after five decades with NACDA and CoSIDA have extended operating officer and chief legal officer (CFP Semifinals & Championship the Houston Chronicle, United Press their partnership through 2029 after first Donald Remy…Former XFL owner Vince January 10) International, and several Texas dailies Ð he joining forces in 2010…The Class of 2021 McMahon and former XFL commission- Goodyear Cotton Bowl is expected to continue his 40-plus-years’ for the U.S. Basketball Writers Association er/NCAA vice president/West Virginia AD AT&T Stadium relationship, writing and editing with the Hall of Fame includes: Bill Benner - Oliver Luck are seeking to resolve some Arlington, Texas, 4 or 8 p.m. famed Dave Campbell’s Texas Football USBWA president from 1998-99 during a compensation issues after the XFL folded Capital One Orange Bowl magazine…CBS Sports noted that several 33-year career at the Star last year…COVID-19 has caused cancella- Hard Rock Stadium of the new NCAA Men’s Division I newspaper; Pat Forde - USBWA president tion of the Fort Worth (Texas) Stock Show Miami Lakes, Fla., 4 or 8 p.m. Basketball Championship protocols from 2015-16 and columnist with Sports (held annually since 1896) and the Houston Monday, Jan. 10 include, among others, a maximum travel Illustrated; Dana O'Neil - the USBWA (Texas) Rodeo, which was scheduled to CFP Championship, Semifinal Winners party of 34, teams within six hours of president from 2014-15 and has covered have its 90th annual celebration this month. Lucas Oil Stadium Indianapolis will travel by bus, specific college basketball 25-plus years; Brian The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Indianapolis, Ind., 8 p.m. seating charts for buses and planes, and Morrison - the ACC's retired director of will take place Feb. 11-28 at Freeman Thursday, Dec. 30. 2021-Jan. 1, 2022 one person per hotel room with no outside media relations and won the USBWA's Coliseum with strict following of COVID- (Other New Year’s Six Bowls) guests…The Dallas (Texas) Morning News Katha Quinn Award in 2014; Loren Tate - 19 prevention protocols…The 2021 NCAA Thursday, Dec. 30 compared recently traded NFL quarter- 89, a longtime sports editor of the Division I Women’s Basketball Chick Fil-A Peach Bowl backs Matthew Stafford of Georgia and Champaign News Gazette and a sports Championship will be played March 21- Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta,Ga.TBD Jared Goff of California and their profes- writer for 66 years…Stanford AD Bernard April 4 at six sites in and around San Friday, Jan. 1 sional winning percentages with NFL Muir, Cornerstone AD Aaron Sagraves, Antonio, Texas. The locales are the San PlayStation Fiesta Bowl standouts Deshaun Watson of Clemson, Rob Knox of UNC Greensboro, Brian Antonio Alamodome, Bill Greehey Arena State Farm Stadium Carson Wentz of North Dakota State, and Morales of Wagner, and Tammy Boclair at San Antonio St. Mary's University, the Glendale, Ariz. TBD of Mississippi State. Prescott, (CoSIDA past president) of Alday Public Frank Erwin Center on the Texas campus Friday, Jan. 1 injured for most of the ’20 season, has the Relations were featured subjects and opin- in Austin, the University Events Center at Allstate Sugar Bowl top winning percentage in the NFL ranks at ion makers in the CoSIDA Open Forum Texas State in San Marcos, and the UTSA Mercedes-Benz Superdome .597…TexAgs.com addressed the chal- online newsletter…Arizona, Kansas, Convocation Center…The NFL was salut- New Orleans, La., TBD lenges of many ’21 teams hit hard by early Louisville, Maryland, Michigan State, Ole ed for going above and beyond public pro- Friday, Jan. 1 defections to the NFL and the Texas A&M Miss, Pittsburgh, Tennessee, and UCLA are tocols and enforcing intensive standards, Rose Bowl presented by Capital One needs for just a bit more depth in a talented working with NCAA enforcement and including no public meetings in close con- Rose Bowl Stadium running back corps during later signing compliance officials concerning possible tact without masks for 15 minutes or more. Pasadena, Calif. period…ESPN is putting the X Games on issues and probes at their respective 2021-22 Bowl the sales’ market as advertising sales for schools…Major League Baseball is consid- the Games have declined in recent years... ering spring training at Arizona sites due to …The Athletic has proposed keeping tradi- national health concerns and may shorten tional independent Notre Dame as a foot- the scheduled, 162-game 2021 season for ball playing member of the ACC again in the same reasons…The NCAA DI Football 2021. The publication also spoke about Committee has included FBS and FCS how Cincinnati athletics was able to have a members in updated recruiting rulings $7.7 million budget surplus for fiscal year dealing with telephone calls to prospective through new line itemizing and a record student-athletes, excluding football student- $13.6 million in donations in 2019-20. UC athletes from counting in the preseason also is keeping 2020-21 expenses at a bare practice activities’ limit during the 2021-22 minimum due to the COVID-19 pandemic academic year and allowing graduate assis- …CBS Sports columnist Dennis Dodd tant coaches to compete as student-athletes printed an exhaustive and comprehensive for a fourth year if existing academic piece on the national Alston Case for col- requirements are met…The NCAA lege sports governance…Dana Larson, Division I Competition Oversight longtime studio host for Fox Sports Committee will consolidate 2021 spring Southwest and wife of Lone Star sports championships in bubble locations: Conference commissioner Jay Poerner, women's volleyball (Omaha, Neb.), bowl- captured top honors in the Dallas Morning ing (Kansas City’s AMF Pro Bowl Lanes) News NFL picks for the 2020 season with and a reduced, eight-team women's hockey a final record of 185-83-1 (.690 winning championship in Erie, Pa….The NCAA percentage)…Sports talk host Colin Division III Administrative Committee has Cowherd is beginning a podcast network decided to cancel all DIII winter champi- known as Volume with former Kansas and onships and will seek all options to contest NFL standout Aqib Talib hosting a NFL- the 2021 spring championships in all oriented program on Volume…The UC sports…The NCAA and AthleticDirectorU Davis administration and athletics were highlighted a podcast with former Tulsa saluted in the New York Times for volun- AD and Vanderbilt football wide receiver teering to become a Northern California Dr. Derrick Gragg on the topic Inclusion, testing site and offering free masks and Education and Engagement in college ath- shelter for area residents during the nation- letics…Collegiate Sports Associates is a al health crisis…Snap and Pinterest have new partner for executive searches with achieved large numbers of users in the Q1 NCAA’s Pathway Program…The U.S. mode Ð especially among college students Supreme Court will hear arguments in the and student-athletes. Snapchat closed 2020 Alston Case on March 31 in a case of what with 265 million active users, and Pinterest group determines rules for college sports had 459 million subscribers Ð both above and the NCAA’s governance role. The ’20 estimates…D1Ticker.com espoused a defendants also have filed a brief with U.S.

16 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com AUTO REVIEW LINCOLN CORSAIR The Ninth Best Small Luxury SUV

noise control, and 10-way heated front seats along with Sync 3 infotainment and a “floating” 8-inch touch screen. What’s more, all Corsairs are blessed with a push-button starter, hill-start assist, a power liftgate and LED headlights. Some options on the Corsair are well worth considering. These include the tur- bocharged 2.3-liter inline-4 engine for the Reserve model (which offers considerably more power at only a tiny hit to fuel econo- my) and the 14-speaker Revel premium audio system. Other extras to consider include the Corsair’s 24-way “Perfect Position” front seats (which offers extend- able thigh-support panels for each of your legs), adaptive suspension, an excellent head-up display (HUD), Phone As A Key, By kbb.com While driving the 2.3 Corsair, the mode job of isolating the cabin from engine wireless smart phone charging and a we liked best was called Excite, what most noise, while six unique symphonic chimes panoramic moonroof. The Lincoln Corsair is an all-new com- companies would call Sport. The suspen- (recorded by the Detroit Symphony The Corsair’s base engine is a tur- pact luxury SUV that replaces the Lincoln sion firmed up a bit for better body control Orchestra, no less) add to the Corsair’s bocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder offering 250 MKC. The head-turning Corsair is the lat- in the twisty bits, but it does so without upscale demeanor. We like how the 5-pas- horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. An est model to receive Lincoln’s new “Quiet compromising the ride in an adverse way. senger interior’s second row can be slid available 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Flight” design treatment, which features We also like the quickened response of the fore or aft up to six inches, allowing own- produces 295 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of the brand’s new signature grille, full-width gearbox, and how it would hold a lower ers to choose between extra rear-seat torque. Both engines are smooth, and they taillights and an “S-section” side panel gear while descending grades to make life legroom or additional cargo capacity. send power through an 8-speed automatic contour. The design accentuates the a little easier on it’s 4-wheel disc brakes. With premium materials available in transmission. Both are available with front- Corsair’s stance as one of the lowest and All told, we’re impressed with the way vivid colors, the Lincoln Corsair offers a or all-wheel drive. widest SUVs in the segment. this new compact Lincoln SUV drives. It sumptuous cabin design. Leather seats and The front-drive 2.0-liter Corsair is rated The new Corsair comes with front-wheel has great balance and confidence-inspiring door panels can be had in Beyond Blue by the EPA at 22 mpg City/29 mpg drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), steering feel. About the only thing we’re (blue-and-white contrasts), Cashew (tan Highway/25 mpg combined. With all- plus a turbocharged 2.0- or 2.3-liter 4- not enamored of is the digital instrument and black), or Medium Slate (soft gray wheel drive, those figures are 21/29/24, cylinder engine mated to an 8-speed auto- panel, which looks way too plain in with ebony accents). The Corsair’s hori- respectively. matic transmission. The Corsair, available Normal mode, but was undoubtedly chosen zontal cabin design allows for a center con- With the 2.3 available only with all- in Standard and extra luxurious Reserve to emphasize the technical nature of this sole with generous storage below. wheel drive, the Corsair returns EPA fig- forms, competes with a host of other com- new Lincoln (and look like its larger Lincoln’s new compact luxury SUV ures of 21 mpg City/28 mpg Highway and pact luxury SUVs, but the Acura RDX and Lincoln siblings). To us, there’s nothing features a digital dash like that used on the 24 mpg combined, meaning extra power Lexus NX are foremost among them. “unluxurious” or low tech about real ana- Navigator, Nautilus and Aviator. It ani- does not put a big hurt on fuel economy. KBB had the opportunity to drive a log gauges with real pointers. mates to showcase the transitions between 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 Corsair Reserve, an all-wheel-drive model Nevertheless, this is a minor nit to pick each of the Corsair’s five driving modes 250 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque equipped with the 2.3, and an AWD on an otherwise impressive new Lincoln (Normal, Excite, Slippery, Deep Conditions EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22 mpg Corsair Reserve fitted with the smaller 2.0- that will appeal to a customer looking for a and Conserve), but we’re not sure if the /29 mpg (FWD), 21 mpg/29 mpg (AWD) liter engine. Our impressions: luxurious and practical vehicle that’s small large TFT screen, which looks almost bar- 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-4 Both engines are so quiet inside the on the outside, but big in the areas of style, ren in Normal mode, is better than a set of 295 horsepower, 310 lb-ft of torque cabin that it’s hard to tell they’ve started, in safety, tech and performance. traditional analog gauges. On the other EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21 mpg part because there’s no tachometer dis- Advanced tech plays a key role, literally, hand, we like the Corsair’s high-tech steer- /28 mpg played on the digital dash in the Corsair’s in the Corsair’s luxury pedigree. Lincoln’s ing wheel, which offers thumb pads for The Lincoln Corsair Standard model Normal driving mode. More significant, all new “Phone As A Key” technology allows cruise control and menu navigation, as well starts at $36,940, which includes a $995 the new Corsairs benefit from a dual-wall drivers to lock and unlock the car, open the as a new dedicated button on the steering destination fee. An AWD version of the firewall that helps keep engine sound com- liftgate, and start and drive the vehicle with wheel rim to engage spoken commands. Corsair Standard begins at $39,140. A front pletely out of the cabin. This is something just their smartphone. Your phone becomes One size down and sporting one less -drive Corsair Reserve model starts at Mercedes has done for years, and we’re the key fob. The seats, mirrors and audio row of seats than Lincoln’s big new Aviator $43,625 (also including the $995 destina- glad it has been adopted by Lincoln. preferences adjust automatically when a SUV, the Corsair is a handsomely scaled- tion), while an AWD Reserve costs $45,825. Both of these engines can be felt, how- drivers enters the Corsair. down version of its big brother. It’s defi- At the top end of the spectrum, a very ever. They provide the Corsair with a confi- In addition to Lincoln’s “Phone As A nitely a Lincoln, there’s no doubt about well equipped Lincoln Corsair, an all- dent, relaxed momentum, and their power Key” technology, the Corsair features a 14- that, and the range of color choices wheel-drive 2.3-liter Reserve model is sent to the wheels via a smooth-shifting speaker Revel premium audio system, includes several metallic finishes that equipped with bits such as a technology 8-speed automatic transmission, thankfully wireless charging for mobile devices, stan- include the signature hue, Flight Blue. package and dynamic handling package, not a continuously variable automatic. You dard Wi-Fi and SYNC 3 with AppLink to As a compact luxury SUV carrying the along with 20-inch alloy wheels, can can tell the 2.0 isn’t quite up to the power synchronize mobile phone controls with Lincoln name, the new Corsair is very well exceed $60,000. of the 2.3, but it by no means felt lacking the Corsair’s 8-inch touch screen. equipped. The front-wheel-drive Corsair As always, check the KBB Fair in any way. Inside, the new Corsair’s dash uses a Standard is powered by a turbocharged 2.0- Purchase Price to see what others in your It might be easiest to let your wallet wide horizontal design to emphasize space liter inline-4 mated to an 8-speed automatic area are paying for the Lincoln Corsair. decide: The 2.3 is an $1,140 option on the and a sense of calm. A dual-wall dashboard transmission, and the abundant luxuries Lincoln Corsair Reserve. in the engine compartment does a superb include dual-zone climate control, active

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 17 TICKET WINDOW

18 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com FOOD REVIEW By RICHARD POLLAK Here are my picks for favorite Burger

made pickels and mustard sauce. A must grilled beef with incredibly fresh vegeta- go eat in Vegas! bles makes this one an easy choice.

By Richard Pollak The Traveling Gourmet [email protected] Kenny’s Philly Cheesesteak Burger with Tex Mex Queso Without a doubt, Texas is the Beef The Kenny's El Jefe Grande Burger Capital of the world. Texas consumes more The Hawaiian Burger Challenge is a 7 lb monstrosity with over 5 than 1 million hamburgers a day. In anoth- Jalapeno Mushroom Burger at Dugg Burger lbs of Chili, Cheese, veggies and fries. er life, I was responsible for 11 million This is it, My Hawaiian Burger, which Whoppers a year as Marketing Director for When you want to pile it all in and not won the Texas Food Writers Challenge in Burger King Corporation right here in pay .75 cents for a slice of Tomato, you've 2014 over 300 Texas Foodie scribes by Dallas after an illustrious career in Sports got to try Dugg Burger's architecturally over 5500 votes. While I should have Marketing. So, here is what I consider to correctly structured Hamburger. They dig entered my Smoked Salmon Burger with be the some of the best burgers I have ever out the under crown of the bun so that Chive Creamed Cheese, the Hawaiian had. there was unlimited room for any and all Burger was obviously well received. A 1/3 toppings you desire. Every week, a pound patty, lettuce, special sauce and a unique Lucky 13 Burger is created as a grilled pinapple slice. specialfor the week. The Jalapeno You can't cut the Queso out of Kenny's Mushroom Burger is the way to go. Philly Cheesesteak Burger. Ask for extra napkins! El Jefe....the mother of all Texas Burgers

Twin Peaks Hangover Burger

Twin Peaks has several really good burgers on the menu such as the Avacado Smash Burger, Billionaires Burger, Turkey Burger and Smokey Sweet Bar BQ Burger Poblano Burger at Globe Life Park but the one that I consider the best is The Hangover Burger. Bacon, lettuce, tomato, Sports stadium food has gone gastro- cheese, Mayo and topped with an egg. nomic and Texas Rangers Globe Life Park Excellent choice....especially the day after! is hitting a grand slam with the Poblano Burger introduced last season. In the past, the Ballpark Burger has always taken sec- ond place to the Hot Dog but that is about to change. This burger is highly recomend- ed when visitning Globe Life Park.

The Melt at Wahlburgers in Las Vegas

I had to admit that I went to Wahlburgers in Las Vegas for the Celebrity shtick. Their show is one of my favorite shows on TV. Incredibly, the Hamburgers were far better than I ever imagined. There was plenty of In-N-Out Burger fresh beef and real fresh crispy veggies with a variety of toppings. My favorite is I have to say, In-N-Out Burger is my The Melt which is 1/3 pound burger with favorite Fast Food Hamburger. The freshly cheese, bacon, caramelized onions, home-

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 25 | February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 19 20 February 12, 2021 - February 18, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 25 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com