April 30 - May 6, 2021 Vol. 19, Issue 36 www.sportspagdfw.com FREE 2 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 3 April 30, 2021 - May 6 2021 AROUND THE AREA Vol. 19, Issue 36 LOCAL NEWS OF INTEREST sportspagedfw.com Established 2002 SMU to hold open practice Friday Cover Photo: AROUND THE AREA Doncic was named the Western Conference The Mavericks concluded the week 4 Player of the Week for games played with a 108-93 win versus Los Angeles RANGERS REPORT Monday, April 19 through Sunday, April (4/24). Doncic contributed 18 points, eight 5 BY DIC HUMPHREY 25, marking the fourth time in his career rebounds and 13 assists on the night. GOLF, ETC and third time this season he has received In 54 games this season, Doncic is 6 BY TOM WARD the honor (Nov. 18-24, 2019; Jan. 4-10, averaging 28.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, 8.8 7 PGA TOUR: VALSPAR 2021; March 29-April 3, 2021). Doncic assists and 1.0 steals on a career-high CHAMPIONSHIP Mustang Football To Hold Open joins Denver’s Nikola Jokic and 48.3% from the floor. Among league lead- BY PGATOUR.COM Practice Friday At 7 p.m. Milwaukee’s Giannis Antetokounmpo as ers, the Slovenian ranks fourth in scoring, WHAT TO EXPECT AT DALLAS (SMU) Ð SMU football will players to have received the honor three assists and triple-doubles (nine). 8 INNISBROOK BY PGATOUR.COM hold its annual Open Spring Practice on times this season. Washington’s Bradley Beal joins When Doncic (6-7, 230) won player of Doncic as the Eastern Conference Player INDYCAR THIS WEEKEND AT Friday, April 30 at 7 p.m. in Ford Stadium. 9 TMS Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. and park- the week earlier this month, he joined Dirk of the Week. BY GRIFFEN SCHMOYER ing in campus garages is free. While inside Nowitzki (2002-03, 2006-07, 2009-10, 10 NFL DRAFT - FIRST ROUND the stadium, fans are expected to wear face 2010-11) and Josh Howard (2006-07) as PICKS coverings and observe social distancing the only Mavericks to garner the award BY MATT JOHNSON practices. multiple times in the same season. He also HALL OF Food trucks will be available in the joined Nowitzki (16 times), Michael Finley 12 FAME SPOTLIGHT BY NATIONAL FOOTBALL FOUNDATION south end zone for concessions, and fans (three) and Jason Kidd (three) as the only can enter a raffle for some coveted Triple Dallas players to win the award at least Roughriders unveil a Jam-Packed May 13 COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS AND D, Dallas and Mustang Football gear. three times in his career. Nowitzki holds Promotional schedule NOTES SMU opens the 2021 slate at home the franchise record for player of the week Fireworks, drink specials and theme nights BY BO CARTER 16 against Abilene Christian on Sept. 4. The honors in a single season, four (2009-10). highlight the opening month NCBWA BASEBALL POLL non-conference schedule also features the Doncic led the Mavericks to a 3-0 week With baseball’s return to Frisco just BY NCBWA.COM Battle for the Iron Skillet against TCU in at home with averages of 26.0 points, 9.0 about a week away, the Frisco RoughRiders rebounds, 10.0 assists and 1.7 steals. are thrilled to announce a massive May 18 THE TICKET WINDOW Fort Worth on Sept. 25. Conference play includes home match- The two-time All-Star recorded back-to- promotional schedule. back 30-point games against Detroit (4/21) The home schedule begins with 19 AUTO REVIEW ups with USF, Tulane, UCF and Tulsa, BY KBB.COM while the Mustangs will play Navy, and the Lakers (4/22). The games were his Opening Week presented by Baylor Scott Houston, Memphis and Cincinnati away. 17th and 18th with 30+points, 5+ rebounds & White on May 4th! This marks the first For ticket information, call (214) (768-4263). and 5+ assists, which leads the NBA. of two-straight weeks at home, where they Follow us on To open the week against Detroit, will host 12 games in 13 days. Doncic recorded 30 points, 10 rebounds, On Opening Day, the first 5,000 fans Twitter & Facebook nine assists, two steals in the 127-117 win. will receive a magnet schedule giveaway The following night, in the first of two courtesy of Carpet Tech and everyone will twitter.com/sportspagedfw consecutive victories against the reigning enjoy a postgame fireworks show. NBA champion Lakers, Doncic led all The RoughRiders follow up the opener facebook.com/sportspageweek- scorers with 30 points, including 17 in the with their Cinco de Mayo Celebration on Luka Doncic named Western second half, to go with nine rebounds, May 5th. The night will feature Dos Equis Publisher Contact Us eight assists and three steals as the and Corona specials, a live Mariachi band Sports Page Publishing Group, Main Number (214) 683-1469 Conference Player of the Week LLC P.O. Box 820813 DALLAS — Mavericks guard Luka Mavericks won 115-110. and beautiful festive jerseys. [email protected] Dallas, Tx. 75382 www.sportspagedfw.com NCAA BASEBALL - Top 25 Coaches (Week 10) Dic Humphrey, Tom Ward, Bo WEEKLY CALENDAR Carter, Richard Pollak, Robert 1. Arkansas 1. Arkansas Cortinez. James McAnally 2. Vanderbilt 2. Vanderbilt 3. 3. Texas APRIL MAY MAY MAY MAY MAY MAY 4. Tennessee 4. Mississippi State 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 5. Mississippi State 5. Texas Tech FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY 6. TCU 6. Tennessee To advertise in The Sports Page Weekly 7. Louisville 7. Louisville Mavs Mavs Mavs Mavs 8. Oregon 8. TCU vs vs at vs call the contacts above or 214.683.1469 Wizards Kings Heat Nets 9. Notre Dame 9. 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4 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com RANGERS WITH DIC HUMPHREY News and Notes

week to 10 days away from getting activat- to put this edition of the Rangers into the ed from the IL. Perhaps the offense is com- fringes of contention. ing around to support starting pitching that FRISCO ROUGHRIDERS: has been good enough to play at least .500 The Rangers set the roster this week for ball. Frisco, and it is a team that local fans may As for that that starting pitching, want to watch Ð in person! First of all, Gibson of course is putting up “Ace” num- seats in quality locations cost much less bers. His ERA is among the league leaders than comparable tickets at Globe Life at 2.16. He is so good there is already Field; but most of all, a number of upper speculation he could be traded by the July end Ranger prospects are reaching the AA 31 trade deadline. seems level. It’s an interesting team with players to be coming around after winning his first that have a chance to play in Arlington. game as a Ranger this week. The starting rotation includes Cole and have been good at times Winn, the Rangers’ number three ranked and not so good at times but show promise. prospect, the highest on the team. Yeri That leaves as the weak Rodriguez, Tim Brennan and A. J. Alexy link in the rotation. Certainly, the patience are next. The fifth slot will be a tandem of is growing thin. An ERA of almost seven Hans Crouse and Tyler Phillips. MLB isn’t going to work. The most likely candi- Pipeline ranks Crouse is the number seven date to take his place is . He and Alexy number 23 in the Rangers’ farm has been the best long man in the bullpen. system. leads the team with a .305 batting average As for the rest of the bullpen, the Position players of interest include Rangers have the arms to win a game when , who made his Major they have a lead. has been League debut with Texas last season. simple. They don’t hit at home. After the dominant at times and scary at times, but Apostel is ranked as the ninth best Ranger series with the Angels this week, the team’s he gets the job done. He’s five for five in prospect. Outfielder Steele Walker, who home batting average was .198, and they save opportunities. and Joely played at Oklahoma is on the roster, as is averaged 2.6 runs and 10.4 per Rodriguez have solidified the back end of Jax Biggers, who played at Arkansas. game. the pen. is also giving some , who played at Baylor and One contributor is . He consistent outings. was selected in the same draft that brought changed his swing to a smaller launch It is not a great bullpen yet, but it is get- the Rangers Josh Jung is on the roster. He angle in hopes of driving the ball more. He ting better. The pen also got a new face this and Jung were co Players of the Year in the also has become more selective at the week. Hyeon-Jong Yang made his Major Big XII in the year they were drafted, and BY DIC HUMPHREY plate. He goes into the weekend with a League debut in the Angels series. When Wendzel is actually regarded as the better [email protected] .225 batting average, However, the selec- the 33 year-old Korean took the mound last athlete of the two. He is ranked as the MEMBER: USBWA tivity at the plate has paid off with 23 Monday, he became the 12 th rookie to be Rangers’ number eight prospect and has walks that boosts his on base percentage to on the Rangers’ roster this year. That is by been especially impressive this month at ARLINGTON, Texas Ð The Rangers .415. Perhaps worse is his power outage. far the biggest number in the Major the Rangers’ Alternate Site. opened a four game series with the Boston He has just three extra base hits in 25 Leagues, and it’s not close. He showed a NOTABLE: Red Sox Thursday night with a 4-1 win. games, and two of those, his second home lot of poise and completed four innings, - Starting pitcher has not Kyle Gibson pitched magnificently again run and a double, came this week against that were badly needed after two short given up a home run in33-1/3 rd innings. with six innings of three hit ball. Two of the Angels. starts in a row. There are seven pitchers that have complet- those, a pair of doubles in the sixth inning, One idea is that Gallo is simply not get- It still is something to keep in mind. ed at least 20 innings and not surrendered a scored the only run of the night for Boston. ting any pitches to hit. Opposing pitchers This is a very young team. It will be inter- home run, and Gibson has thrown the most Meanwhile, Adolis Garcia supported have chosen to walk him and face the next esting to see if the offense can gel enough innings of the group. Gibson with a fourth inning sacrifice fly. batter rather than give in with a hittable After Boston tied the game in the sixth strike late in the count. Perhaps it is no inning, hit a two run home coincidence that Gallo showed a power run to put the Rangers back in front and spark with two extra base hits against the make Gibson the winning pitcher. Isiah Angels with Garcia, the reigning A. L. Kiner-Falefa added an insurance run in the Player of the Week, now often batting seventh inning with his third home run of behind him. Maybe Gallo is about to start the year. hitting home runs in bunches. Gibson is 3-0 with the win. John King, Garcia isn’t the only one in the lineup Joely Rodriguez and Ian Kennedy each hitting better. Nick Solak, who has been pitched a scoreless inning in relief to ice regarded as a contact hitter, not only leads the win. Kennedy was especially strong in the team with a .305 batting average, but the ninth to earn his fifth save. has also socked seven home runs, only one Thursday’s win was, surprisingly, just off the Major League lead. is the fifth home win in 13 home games this also leading the Majors with 22 RBIs. season. After opening the home schedule Texas scored 13 runs against the Angels by taking two of three from Toronto, the this week. That is the most the Rangers Rangers have won just three more home have scored in a home series this season. games and no more home series since. It is came off the injured list a miserable performance even for a team recently, and Khris Davis has resumed admittedly in a rebuild. The reason is quite baseball activities such that he may be a

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 5 GOLF WITH TOM WARD Tom’s Tips: Taking Target Practice

TOM WARD [email protected]

Years ago I heard a story out in west Texas about an accomplished marksman who was passing through a local town in which he saw evidence of some amazing shooting. Seemingly, everywhere he looked he saw targets with a bullet hole in the exact center of the bull’s eye on trees, barns and fences. He sought out the marks- man who had performed these astounding feats. When he finally caught up to the man he gave him a congratulatory handshake and said, “How did you do it? Your shoot- ing beats anything I’ve ever seen.” The marksman replied, “No trouble at all. I just shot first and then drew the circles around the holes.” People often aim at nothing and then try to draw the lines of life around acciden- tal marks. The key to success is you must take aim. Sure, life would be a lot easier if we could replicate what that pseudo-marks- man did, but that would be cheating and where’s the challenge. Practices to learn. Practice should be done with definite goals and targets in mind. First, grooving the swing and then getting target conscious. Always have a tar- get in mind when working on irons or woods, it is too easy to just hit balls as hard as you can. With a target, practice is much more interesting. When practicing to correct fault in the swing, forget target and concentrate on making the necessary corrections. After the corrections have been made, it’s time to get back to the target. Do your learning on the practice range where your mind will not be on scoring, but on learning. Also, Shorter practice sessions are much more effective ing your swing. In Baseball, the pitcher is In the photographs, I have my friend swinging towards the target which he did than longer ones. One of the best practices looking at home plate where the batter and Mike Bascik hitting a tee shot on a par 3. perfectly. Visualizing ball flight and having to learn the feel of rhythm and tempo is to catcher are during his throwing motion. Mike, is a former major league pitcher who it go in the direction imagined is a power- pick a par 3 hole that would normally call The is projecting and throwing played for the Texas Rangers and the ful tool that you want in your golfing arse- for say a 7 iron. After you hit the shot, take to his receiver all while looking at where Minnesota Twins. He coaches pitching and nal. out a 6 iron and after that a 5 iron hitting to he wants the ball to go. In Bowling, the knows the value of visualizing when Target projection gets your mind away the green. Using different clubs will help player’s eyes are transfixed on the lane coaching players in Baseball. The photo on from hitting; and this will help in produc- teach you the feel of swinging the club. where he is rolling his ball to the pins. I the left is Mike looking at his intended tar- ing a smooth flowing motion from start to Visualizing your swing and tempo can think you get where I’m going on this. get which is the green. Once he settles in finish. With some practice you’ll start hit- be productive in learning the correct In golf your eyes are looking at the ball over the ball, the swing is on automatic ting more fairways and greens and that will motion while practicing. Projecting to your instead of your target. Consequently, this pilot. He swings away trusting the basic lead to lower scores. target and having a mental picture of the makes the ball the target so your swinging fundamentals that he has practiced. The ball’s flight will give your swing direction. at the ball instead of through it. Your mind photo on the right is Mike staying down Tom Ward can be contacted at www.tee- In golf, unlike other sports, you are not is on hitting the ball rather than getting it through the shot after impact. I drew an timewithtom.com looking at your intended target while mak- where you want it to go. arrow to highlight the importantance of

6 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com GOLF PGA TOUR This week: Valspar Championship

and won by the same margin Ð this time over Jason Kokrak and Louis Oosthuizen Ð in 2019. Casey, who hadn’t won the PGA TOUR in nine seasons before his 2018 win in Tampa, was steadier than anyone through a tough week in 2019 at the Copperhead Course. His 1-over 72 on Sunday was good enough, as he survived a hard exam at Innisbrook better than any- one, punctuated with a par from the fair- way bunker on the 72nd hole. Bubba Watson and Sungjae Im, both at 6-under, rounded out the top five.

HOW TO FOLLOW

Television: Thursday-Friday, 2 p.m.-6 p.m. ET (Golf Channel). Saturday-Sunday, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. (Golf Channel), 3-6 p.m. (NBC).

PGA TOUR LIVE: Thursday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. ET (Featured Groups). Saturday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (Featured Groups), 3 p.m.-6 p.m. (Featured Holes). Radio: Thursday-Friday, 12 p.m.-6 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. (PGA TOUR Radio on SiriusXM and PGA- TOUR.com/liveaudio).

winners in Tampa from the last five years out near Tampa is tree-lined and all culmi- TOURCast: Get shot-by-shot info in real … Sponsor Exemptions include college nates at the ‘Snake Pit’ with two difficult time with shot tracks and video with standout John Augenstein, European stars par-4s sandwiched between the 215-yard TOURCast. Rasmus Hojgaard and Sam Horsfield, plus par-3 17th. The course opened in the early Chase Koepka (brother to Brooks)… Ten 1970s. TOUR Pulse: Get the PGA TOUR app to of the top-30 golfers in the world are tee- 72-HOLE RECORD: 266, Vijay Singh utilize TOUR Pulse, which provides users ing it up at Innisbrook. (2004). the ability to experience a mix of content, FEDEXCUP: Winner receives 500 18-HOLE RECORD: 61, Padraig such as video highlights, written hole sum- Valspar Championship FedExCup points. Harrington (1st round, 2012). maries and stat graphics on every player April 29 - May 2, 2021 STORYLINES: The Valspar LAST TIME: Paul Casey became the first after every hole they complete. Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club Championship marks the final event of the golfer since the event’s inception in 2000 Palm Harbor, Florida PGA TOUR schedule to take place in to defend his title. He won by one shot in Purse - $6,900,000 Florida after its series of tournaments in 2018 over Tiger Woods and Patrick Reed, Winners share: $1,242,000 March… Dustin Johnson’s Valspar 2019 Winner - Paul Casey Championship start in 2019 was his debut at the event and he had a chance to win By Adam Stanley until a 3-over 74 in the final round. He’s PGATOUR.COM back and looking for another good result as The Valspar Championship returns to the race to the FedExCup heats up… the PGA TOUR schedule this season after Attendance at the event will be approxi- the 2020 edition was cancelled due to the mately 20 percent of normal capacity… COVID-19 pandemic. Two-time defending Only 10 golfers since World War II have champion Paul Casey returns to try to win three-peated at an event on the PGA TOUR for a record third time in Tampa. (Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Billy FIELD NOTES: Reigning FedExCup Casper, Tom Watson, Johnny Miller, Gene champion Dustin Johnson returns to action Littler, Stuart Appleby, Steve Stricker, and after a T13 at the RBC Heritage… Past of course, Tiger Woods have all done it). FedExCup winner Justin Thomas is back Paul Casey looks to join that list this year on the PGA TOUR for the first time since at Innisbrook. playing the Masters. Thomas sits second in COURSE: Innisbrook Resort the 2021 FedExCup standings… Phil (Copperhead), par 71, 7,340 yards. Long Mickelson will tee it up at the Valspar known as a TOUR-player favorite, the Championship for the first time since Copperhead Course at Innisbrook puts a 2004… Casey is joined by Adam Hadwin premium on positioning off the tee and is (2017) and Charl Schwartzel (2016) as past as complete an examination as TOUR play- ers will face all year. Larry Packard’s lay-

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 7 Copperhead Course has stood the test

secutive international winner. ... Only play- er 2018 or 2019 to hit 10-under par at the conclusion of play. ... Only needed a career best 21 putts in Round 4. ... Sat five shots off the 54-hole lead. ... Finished when the leaders were on No. 12. ... Sat just two back after 36 holes. ... Was three back after 18 holes. ... Wins in his fifth start here. ... Next best was T37. ... T12 previous week at WGC-Mexico Championship, his third T12 or better in four starts. Notables: Tiger Woods (T2; not entered) was the only player to post all four rounds under par. ... Patrick Reed (T2) bogeyed the 72nd hole to miss the playoff by a shot. ... Justin Rose (T5) sat one back after 54 holes. ... Rory Sabbatini (T5) backed it up with T18 in 2019. ... Branden Grace (T8) was T68 in both Fairways and GIR but was T1 Putts per GIR. ... Jason Kokrak (T8) signed for a 67 and 68. ... Adam Hadwin (T12) posted all four rounds par or better. ... Canadian Corey Conners (T16), trying to follow in the footsteps of countryman Hadwin, slept on his first 54-hole lead and shot 77. ... Brandt Snedeker (T31) was one back after 54 and posted 78. ... Scott Stallings (T31) By Mike Glasscott Village Golf Club. The winner has been in the final group (-9) with Dustin Johnson matched Casey for the low round of the PGATOUR.COM even or 1-over on this stretch dating back (-8). ... Co-led 36 hole leader (-6). ... week with 65. ... Cut was 3-over, tying the to 2013. Trailed by four after opening with 70. ... record. ... Played as the sixth most difficult Painting fairways and greens this week There's a reason why the tournament Picks up his third TOUR win at 41 years. track on TOUR. will be the key as the TOUR returns to scoring record since the move to spring ... Third straight international winner. ... 2017: Adam Hadwin (-14, 270) Florida at Innisbrook Resort for the Valspar hasn't exceeded 14-under: It's fair and diffi- Piping-hot form (T3 WGC, 2nd Pebble Posted even-par 71 to win by one. ... Championship. The Copperhead Course cult. Players haven't seen this kind of rough Beach and T2 Singapore) entering minus First PGATOUR victory at age 29. ... Wins annually rates as one of the most popular since Torrey Pines. The green complexes MC at THE PLAYERS the week before. in his third start here. ... Only winner in the on TOUR amongst the pros as Larry are complex and birdies aren't easy to Notables: last four to lead the field in Par-3 scoring. Packard's 1971 design (Par-71, 7,340 come by. Grinding GIR and making pars Jason Kokrak (T2) was one of just four ... Joined Casey and Charl Schwartzel as yards) has stood the test of modern tech- while taking advantage of the great shots is players to post all four rounds at par or bet- recent winners to hit the top three in Birdie nology, fitness and power. With the 2020 the formula here. Four Par-5 holes help but ter for the week. ... Louis Oosthuizen (T2) or Better Conversion Percentage. ... Middle event cancelled due to COVID-19, the there are also five Par-3 holes to keep the picks up his second top 10 in three visits of three straight international winners 2021 spot on the calendar is brand-new at concentration on point. The lowest rounds with 66-69 weekend. ... Rookie Sungjae Im (Schwartzel 2016, Casey 2018). ... Posted the end of April. the last two editions are 65 and 66 so par is (T4) sat one of the 36-hole lead. ... Bubba 64 in Round 2 to lead by a shot after 36 Set in the rolling hills just north of a very solid score this week. Watson (T4) played for just the second holes. ... Tied the 54-hole record by posting Tampa in Palm Harbor, the Copperhead Two-time defending champion Paul time since 2011. ... Ryan Armour (T6) T10 14-under (led by four). ... Sat six back after Course also ranks annually in the top 10 of Casey looks to add his name to a VERY in fairways and T3 approach. ... Dustin Round 1. ... Cashed 71st in his first visit, most difficult courses on TOUR. It has short list this week. Only Tiger Woods and Johnson (T6) shot 74 from the final group MC in his second. ... Hot entering as he only ranked outside the top 10 once in the Steve Stricker in recent memory have won with 15 pars and three bogeys. ... Austin cashed in five straight including a one shot last seven years and it tests all fourteen an event three consecutive times. The field Cook (T9) shared the 36-hole lead but defeat at The American Express. clubs in the bag. Unlike most Florida of 156 will be chasing Padraig Harrington's closed 72-72. ... Luke Donald (T9) owns Notables: tracks, pine trees frame the multiple course record of 61 set in 2012 and the five top 10s here, tied for the most. ... Scott Jim Herman (T3) missed tying the doglegs and elevation changes are pro- post-2015 renovation score of 14-under set Stallings (T9) hit the podium, T3, on his course record as he opened with 62 and nounced. Imagine Riviera in the panhandle by Adam Hadwin in 2017. A purse of $6.9 debut here in 2011. ... Denny McCarthy trailed by just one after 36. ... Charl state. million will pay the winner $1.242 million (T9) posted three rounds in the 60s in his Schwartzel (6th) picked up the best result With a late April start, instead of early- plus 500 FedExCup points. Top 65 and ties first visit. ... Tyler Duncan (MC) shared the in defending before Casey's victory. ... mid March, the TifEagle greens (running will play the weekend. co-low round of the week with Casey, Wesley Bryan (T7) cashed T4 at up to 12 feet) and Celebration rough (three Recent Winners and Notables Kokrak and Oosthuizen with 66. ... Only and Riviera prior. ... Henrik Stenson (T7) inches) will still be over-seeded but the 2019: Paul Casey (-8, 276) five bogey-free rounds on the week and opened with 64 and closed with 67. ... fairways will not. Working the golf ball Closed with 1-over par 72 to win by a none on the weekend. ... Cut was 1-over Russell Henley (T9) opened with 64 and both ways off the tee will bring in 74 shot. ... First winner to defend at this event. and the 36 hole lead was just 6-under. ... closed with 67. ... John Huh (T9) worst bunkers and there are water penalty areas ... First champion to post an over-par score Ranked third-hardest NON-MAJOR. ... round was 70. ... Top five players were on half of the holes. The biggest test will in Round 4. ... Led the field in Strokes- Followed THE PLAYERS Championship double digits under-par. ... Cut was Even. be the final three holes known as "The Gained: Tee-to-Green. ... Top 10 in every in 2019. ... Event followed WGC-Mexico Snake Pit". The closing three-hole stretch Strokes-Gained category minus putting. ... 2018: Paul Casey (-10, 274) Championships. ... Easiest scoring condi- has been in the top three ON TOUR since First winner in four outside the top seven Closed with 65 Sunday to win by a tions since 2012. 2003 in difficulty trailing only "The Green in Par-3 scoring. ... Played the Par-5 holes shot. ... Secures second win on TOUR at Mile" next week at Wells Fargo and the 15-under, five shots better than anyone. ... age 40. ... Joins Luke Donald as the only conclusion at Jack Nicklaus' Memorial Third multiple winner at Valspar. ... Played other Englishman to win. ... Second con-

8 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com RACING INDYCAR 2021 NTT IndyCar Series Texas preview

driver has been a threat in both races so far this season, and could very well improve on his twelfth-place finish from last year. O’Ward’s closest pursuer in that test was ‘s , who still continues to struggle with poor per- formances this season. With his win record at the track, Dixon will be a threat to win once more, and could take the points lead by the end of the weekend. Last year’s runner-up Pagenaud could also be in the mix for a good event, coming off of one of his best race week- ends in recent memory at St. Petersburg, where he qualified fourth and finished third. Pagenaud’s rookie teammate Scott McLaughlin will be making his competi- tive debut at an oval. The three-time Virgin Australia Supercars Championship winner has had multiple tests at the track, and it will be interesting to see how quickly he adapts to this style of racing. First race of the season is this weekend at Texas Motor Speedway This weekend will also see the season debuts of oval drivers like Kanaan and PREVIEW: 2021 NTT IndyCar Series Ð Newgarden would hold the lead until lead. Rosenqvist, who was stuck in traffic Fitipaldi mentioned earlier, who will be Genesys 300 and Xpel 375 lap thirty-two, where Dixon would pass ever since he left the pits, tried to make a filling in for at Chip him for the lead as Newgarden came to pit final push to close the gap, but lost control Ganassi Racing and at By Griffin Schmoyer road for his first stop. Newgarden and on the aforementioned traction compound Racing with Racing This weekend, the NTT IndyCar Series teammate and slammed the turn two wall trying to respectively. Ed Carpenter will also be makes its way to the Lone Star State for both struggled with their setups due to the pass the lapped . After returning to his own team to pilot the No. the first oval races of the season at Texas limited practice session and found it hard the car came to a stop, the young Swede 20 Chevrolet, as usual driver Motor Speedway. Drivers better have their to navigate lap traffic for the entire race. slammed the wheel in frustration. returns to Carlin for the weekend in place dancing shoes ready for a “Texas Two- Soon after the field completed their On the final restart, Dixon had lapped of . Carpenter finished in an Step” as they will be competing in back to stops, rookie Rinus cars between him and second place impressive fifth place at Texas last season, back races, with the Genesys 300 on Veekay stepped out of line in turn two and Pagenaud, and ran to the finish unopposed. just a head of Daly in sixth, while Kanaan Saturday and the Xpel 375 on Sunday. spun on the ironically low-grip traction It was said that there would not be enough finished tenth for A.J. Foyt Enterprises. ‘s Alex Palou holds a compound laid down for NASCAR events. laps remaining to cycle the traffic to the Fittipadi, who is also the reserve driver for slim two-point lead over teammate Scott As he spun down the track, he collected back of the field, which was a point of con- the Haas Formula 1 Team, will make his Dixon and in the championship fellow rookie Palou, who was racing for tention for some. This marked Dixon’s first start in an IndyCar since 2018. standings going into the weekend, and we with Team Goh at the fourth win at Texas, and the beginning of a could very easily have a new points leader time. three-race win streak that would be the cat- Weekend Schedule come Sunday night. At the restart, Dixon would start to build alyst for his sixth IndyCar series champi- Saturday 1 May In addition, drivers like an eventual ten-second lead as Newgarden onship. 1230 EST / 1730 BST Ð Practice and Pietro Fittipaldi will be making their and Pagenaud struggled behind. Dixon’s What to look out for this weekend. 1600 EST / 2100 BST Ð Qualifying season debuts this weekend, substituting teammate looked just as The major difference this weekend in 1900 EST / 0000 BST Ð Genesys 300 for drivers on road and street course pro- good as the race leader, and after starting terms of the quality of the on-track product Sunday 2 May grams. ninth took second place from Pagenaud will be the lack of the traction compound. 1600 EST / 2100 BST Ð Qualifying Hopefully your schedule is clear for a just before a caution on lap seventy-seven. During a test at the track in late March, it 1700 EST / 2200 BST Ð Xpel 350 weekend of IndyCar excitement, because Dixon lost the lead to Newgarden due to a was stated that the traction compound was here’s everything you need to know about slow pit stop, even being passed by no longer on the track, and will open up Where to watch the Genesys 300 and Xpel 375. Rosenqvist for second. After a few laps, more lanes for racing. Firestone will also Coverage in the UK for qualifying and The 2020 Genesys 300 became the sea- Dixon reclaimed his lead from Newgarden have the proper tyres available for this the race will be provided by Sky Sports son-opening event after the delay of the by passing both drivers on the outside of event, opening up the strategy options once F1. 2020 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg turns one and two in separate moves, and more. In the United States, coverage for the race due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both began pulling away once more to another Much like last year, each race’s events will be on NBCSN. Practice will be practice and qualifying were condensed ten-second lead. Lap traffic still presented are being condensed into one day affairs, streamed exclusively on the Peacock into race day, with taking an issue for the leaders, as Rosenqvist was with only one practice session on Saturday. streaming service, while Qualifying will be the pole and leading for most of the first able to get past Newgarden for second and It would not be surprising to see a team shown live simultaneously on NBCSN as stint. close the gap to under two seconds, but that struggles on Saturday work on their well as Peacock. Tyre manufacturer Firestone were Dixon once again grew the gap after the pit cars and potentially be set up for a better unable to make more tyres for the race due cycle only to have it closed once more by race Sunday, so don’t count anyone out. How to keep up with all the action to the pandemic, so they brought soft-wall traffic. At the test in late March, Patricio O’Ward You can follow all the all the action alternate tyres usually only available at The final pit stops came with fifteen of Arrow McLaren SP was fastest of all, here at The Checkered Flag. We will be road courses and limited teams to no more laps to go, as Rosenqvist pit from second and despite his best laps being set with the providing coverage of the practice, qualify- than thirty-five green flag laps on the tyres, place. Dixon stayed out three laps longer help of drafting, he was among the top five ing, and race sessions. limiting strategy. and took advantage of clean air to keep his fastest on solo runs. The young Mexican

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 9 NFL 2021 NFL DRAFT Round 1 expert picks and analysis

Defense is still a major issue in Carolina, and even though Surtain is young, he’s the most polished prospect at a key position and is an instant starter for the Panthers. 9. , linebacker Penn State The Denver Broncos should draft a quarterback if the right one becomes avail- able, I’m not sure is their guy. He is better than Drew Lock, but that’s also not saying a lot. If our 2021 NFL mock draft scenario unfolds on April 29, Micah Parsons should be the pick. Vic Fangio’s defense needs a do-it-all linebacker in the middle, that’s the last piece the front seven is missing. Parsons turns this into an elite defense and with a Teddy Bridgewater trade on Day 3,this becomes a playoff team 10. (via Dallas) Mac Jones, quarterback Alabama Embattled Bears Matt Nagy already confirmed he’s going to the Jacksonville and are in des- peration mode right now. Chicago missed In our latest 2021 NFL mock draft, the first No. 3, a cost that places value on upside. can line up anywhere in the trenches. Slater out on top-end quarterback options on the 10 picks are from the offensive side of the brings a combo of arm will be viewed as a great fit at guard with NFL trade , only to turn to journey- ball. Five are , largely thanks strength, athleticism and raw ability that is Jonah Williams and at the tack- man Andy Dalton in free agency. He’s not to blockbuster trades. tough to match. The 49ers designed his le positions. going to be guy to save their jobs. Rather, entire Pro Day workout and Kyle 6. Chicago opts to move up for a pro-ready By Matt Johnson Shanahan has said the way he evaluates , tight end quarterback in Mac Joneswho could start in 1. QBs is changing. Lance fits everything the Florida Gators 2021. While Jones’ ceiling isn’t too high, Trevor Lawrence, QB 49ers need. If it’s Jones, that should raise The Miami Dolphins moved back up to his floor is up there with the likes of Clemson alarm bells about Shanahan.4. New No. 6, sacrificing a 2022 first-round pick in Lawrence and Wilson. It wouldn’t be a There’s really no drama at the top of the 4. England Patriots (via Atlanta) the process, for a reason. This front office risky pick for Pace after the Mitchell 2021 NFL Draft. Trevor Lawrence already , QB wants a special talent, someone who can be Trubisky experiment backfired big time. confirmed he’s going to the Jacksonville Ohio State an All-Pro player and influences an entire 11. Jaguars with the first pick. He’s seen as a It has been against ’s MO offense on his own. That is Kyle Pitts. , cornerback generational talent and someone to lead to trade up for players in the NFL Draft. Generational tight end prospects are rare, South Carolina this fledgling franchise into the future. It’s Rather, the six-time championship head but Pitts’ size, athleticism and playmaking Old-school GM Dave Gettleman isn’t now all about what Jacksonville does with coach prefers to trade down and collect ability make him special. He is going to be going to trade back. He never has. Because its three other picks in the first two rounds picks. With that said, this has been any- an NFL star. of that, we’re projecting Jaycee Horn to be to help build talent around Lawrence. thing but a typical Belichick-led offseason 7. the pick. Horn is the type of confident, 2. for the Pats. That could lead to a block- Ja’Marr Chase, gritty, physical player who can thrive in , QB buster trade up for Justin Fields. The Pats LSU press man coverage and embrace the lime- BYU are not in a situation where they want to What an ideal NFL mock draft for the light of this huge media market. That’s pre- Should Zach Wilson be the New York add a project quarterback. Boasting dual- Lions under first-year general manager cisely what the New York Giants need. Jets‘ pick? Sure. It seems to be the way threat ability and a strong arm, Fields could Brad Holmes. While we considered a James Bradberry, Adoree’ Jackson and things are headed. Wilson has the skill set sit behind for one year and potential trade down here with a quarter- Horn would form quite a trio of corner- and moxie to thrive in the Big Apple, but take over in 2022. It just makes too much back-needy team, Chase is just too good backs for coordinator Patrick Graham to whether or not he succeeds will likely sense. for the Lions to pass up on. He’s seen as work with. come down to how well new coach Robert 5. one of the better wide receivers to enter the 12. Saleh and the staff can overcome decades , offensive NFL in a decade and would make an , offensive tackle of dysfunction. Wilson may be the most Northwestern immediate impact with recently-acquired Oregon gifted pure thrower in the draft. If the Jets Cincinnati Bengals fans are going to quarterback . Besides, the Lions Don’t pass on elite players. Offensive do typical Jet things, though, it won’t mat- DESTROY this pick. Read the manuscript- need a ton of help at wide receiver. tackle is among the most pressing needs ter how talented Wilson is. length article below. I have your best inter- 8. for the Philadelphia Eagles, but there’s no 3. ests in mind. The reality is, the Bengals are Patrick Surtain II, cornerback way to pass up this opportunity. Andre Trey Lance, QB historically conservative. The idea of Alabama Dillard remains a huge uncertainty at left North Dakota State reuniting Ja’Marr Chase with Appealing as Sewell is here, Patrick tackle, Penei Sewell draws comparisons to Maybe Mac Jones is the smartest quar- is amazing. Penei Sewell is my favorite Surtain II is the top cornerback in this Trent Williams and can be one of the best terback in NFL Draft history, but that com- offensive lineman prospect since Tyron class. If the Carolina Panthers are patient left tackles in the NFL by 2023. pliment also speaks volumes to the talent Smith. If Kyle Pitts is there, Cincinnati and wait until the second round, they can 13. disparity between him and the other top should absolutely take him. That’s precise- get someone like Notre Dame’s Liam , offensive tackle quarterback prospects. The San Francisco ly why I see the Bengals going with Eichenberg to compete with Greg Little at Virginia Tech 49ers paid a historic price to move up for Rashawn Slater, a throwback player who left tackle if Russell Okung doesn’t re-sign. Unfortunately for the Chargers in this

10 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com specific NFL mock draft, Sewell went one down twice in this mock. After picking up ideal pick for Gang Green with their sec- Noticing a theme here? With five quar- pick ahead of them to the Eagles. It could a stockade of selections, the Falcons land ond Day 1 choice. Newsome played at terbacks likely to go in the top-10, other force Los Angeles to either trade down or their edge rusher. is an athletic Northwestern under , and has signal callers could sneak into the bottom go need over value. That’s where Darrisaw marvel whose physical tools were wasted the top-flight athleticism to match his foot- of the first round. Already rumored to be comes into play. He’s seen as a potential by Michigan’s coaching staff. With the ball smarts, which allows him to excel interested in finding a long-term replace- franchise left tackle and has years of start- right guidance and teaching, he can regardless of scheme. He’d be an instant ment for the recently-retired Drew Brees, ing experience for the Hokies. In need of become a Pro Bowl pass rusher in the NFL starter in New York’s zone-heavy defense. the Saints would make a ton of sense for someone to protect Justin Herbert’s blind- 19. 24. Kyle Trask. He’s your traditional drop-back side, this is a selection that makes too , wide receiver , running back quarterback that Saints head coach Sean much sense. Minnesota Alabama Payton values. He also relies on both tim- 14. Washington could move up or down the The Pittsburgh Steelers seem deter- ing and intermediate accuracy — two sta- , EDGE board depending on its strategy for taking a mined to draft a running back early. If ples in Payton’s system. This just makes Miami (Florida) quarterback. The idea is for general manag- that’s the case, a decision that wouldn’t be too much sense for the Finally, a pass-rusher off the board! I’d er to target area of specific advised, Najee Harris is the way to go. He 29. (via Green Bay) personally be hesitant about Jaelan Phillips need. With all the top QB prospects off the profiles as a far more dependable three- Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, linebacker due to his concussion history, but the phys- board, the Football Team makes a move for down back than , bringing a Notre Dame ical tools and freaky athleticism are unde- a potential future top-end pass-catcher in physicality that this coaching staff clearly What a this would be. Jeremiah niable. Mike Zimmer would love to coach Bateman to team up with Terry McLaurin wants. Drafting running backs in the first Owusu-Koramoah has a cornerback’s cov- Phillips up, and is already and Curtis Samuel. We’re talking about a round doesn’t work out often, but at least erage skills in a safety’s body with a line- in place as a star edge defender. The receiver who already runs pro-ready routes the Steelers are getting a good player. backer’s physicality demeanor. The Minnesota Vikings could soon have one of and can make the contested catch with the 25. Jacksonville Jaguars Cleveland Browns badly need a tone-setter the most dynamic pass-rushing duos in the best of them. It’s an ideal fit for both Teven Jenkins, offensive tackle on their front seven. Owusu-Koramoah has NFL if Phillips can stay healthy. Bateman and Washington. Oklahoma State phenomenal range, power and quickness. 15. Miami Dolphins (via Atlanta, via NE) 20. (via Chicago) The interior of Jacksonville’s offensive He’ll be on the field for all three downs, , wide receiver , linebacker line is better than many people realize. and may be the X-factor the Browns Alabama Tulsa Where the Jaguars need help to protect defense needs to win a Super Bowl. Heck, Jaylen Waddle deserves some consider- By the time the 2021 NFL Draft rolls Lawrence is at the tackle spots. Cam Cleveland should trade up for JOK if he’s ation at No. 6, he is that good of a wide around, Zaven Collins might be a top-15 Robinson is shockingly playing under the still around in the 20s. receiver. With quarterback-needy teams pick. He comes from a smaller program, franchise tag, and Jawaan Taylor took a 30. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Buffalo) pushing him down the board, Miami could feasting on lesser competition. But there is step back at right tackle as an NFL sopho- Trevon Moehrig, safety strike with a draft-day trade. The Dolphins nothing small about a 6-foot-4, 260-pound more. Maybe the Jags’ new staff can help TCU are confident will linebacker who can rush the passer, drop the cause, but with the luxury of multiple Trading up for another first-rounder is in 2021. An offense with Pitts, Waddle, back in coverage and will hit running backs high picks, Teven Jenkins makes sense as something that’s definitely in play for the and DeVante Parker would like he’s a sledgehammer. Dallas just needs someone who could ultimately supplant Jaguars, especially if they can get the con- make Tua feel like he is back at Alabama. to find a spot for him on the field, Collins Taylor by Week 1. sensus top safety prospect in Trevon 16. will do the rest. 26. (via Cleveland) Moehrig. Whether it’s size, ball production, , cornerback 21. Alijah Vera-Tucker, guard sound tackling, versatility or leadership Virginia Tech Samuel Cosmi, offensive tackle USC intangibles you most covet in a safety, Is this a risky selection given that Texas Packers general manager Brian Moehrig checks all the boxes. He’s com- Farley is dealing with a back issue? Sure. With the Indianapolis Colts in win-now Gutekunst likes moving around in Round fortable at free safety, slot corner or in the Is it a selection that makes sense for the mode, they need a left tackle to step in and 1, it’s become a trend for him. Green Bay box, and would be such a big, necessary Cardinals? Yes. Both things can be true. be ready to fill the void in the wake of could take its chances and hope Alijah help to a highly suspect Jags secondary. Considered a likely top-10 pick ahead of ’s retirement. Carson Vera-Tucker falls to the 29th pick, but 31. the aforementioned injury issue, Farley Wentz needs a reliable blind-side pass pro- that’s not a gamble worth taking. This is boasts true shutdown ability. He was large- tector if he’s meant to rebound from a hor- the best interior offensive linemen in the wide receiver ly avoided by quarterbacks during a bril- rible 2020 campaign. Cosmi has the neces- 2021 NFL Draft and it’s not particularly Mississippi liant career with Virginia Tech. Now that sary, extensive game experience to start close. Vera-Tucker can start at left guard, It’s time for the Baltimore Ravens to has moved on from the from the jump. While other teams would pushing Elgton Jenkins to center. The great get serious about Lamar Jackson. He needs Cardinals, they need an anchor in the sec- be ill-advised to count on a rookie starter at thing about AVT, he is incredibly versatile a wide receiver who, no matter the cover- ondary. Farley very well could be that guy. this position at this stage of the draft, the and could easily thrive at right tackle to fill age, knows how to get open. Forget about 17. Colts have All-Pro to help another need on this offensive line. He’s an Elijah Moore’s size. This is an outstanding Christian Barmore, , out at left guard. ideal fit for the Packers and this would be a football player who knows where to find Alabama 22. great move for them. space in the secondary. He will become This is as early as Christian Barmore DeVonta Smith, wide receiver 27. Baltimore Ravens Jackson’s go-to target, and his talents justi- has ever gone off the board for us. Alabama Jayson Oweh, EDGE fy the Ravens selecting him. Suddenly, the Surprisingly, it hadn’t occurred to me If we’re only talking about talent, Penn State trio of Sammy Watkins, Marquise Brown before. However, perceived bust Clelin Unfortunately, the reigning Heisman Trading away Orlando Brown Jr. had to and Moore looks pretty electrifying on Ferrell was playing decent football when Trophy winner weighed in stunningly low hurt, especially sending him to a fellow paper. he was on the field in 2020, and Maxx during his trip to Indianapolis and it could AFC contender in the . 32. Crosby still shows promise at defensive really impact his draft stock. The With Teven Jenkins off the board as a , WR end, so no need to give up on them just yet. Tennessee Titans are happy to seize on this potential fill-in at right tackle, Jayson Purdue Barmore is an interior pocket-collapsing opportunity. Smith is the perfect No. 2 Oweh is someone who can help fill the The Tampa Bay Buccaneers would love force who’d bring a new, explosive element receiver and with A.J. Brown taking so void left by multiple free-agent departures to have someone like Rondale Moore, as to the Las Vegas Raiders‘ defensive front. much defensive attention, this 166-pound on Baltimore’s defense. Although Oweh this is truly a classic case of “best player 18. * wide receiver will have no problem shred- didn’t record a single sack in 2020, he is an available.” is certainly happy to Kwity Paye, EDGE ding teams out of the slot for huge plays. athletic marvel at 6-foot-5 with all the tools have another weapon at his disposal as he Michigan 23. New York Jets to be great. He’ll need time to work with tries to lead the Bucs to a Super Bowl Edge rusher is the biggest need for the Greg Newsome II, cornerback NFL coaches, but his potential to be a 10- repeat. Meanwhile, Moore provides Tampa Atlanta Falcons. The 2021 NFL Draft is a Northwestern sack player is real. Bay with some key receiver insurance in bad year to be desperate for pass rushers if It’s a fairly discouraging-looking Jets 28. New Orleans Saints case Chris Godwin walks in free agency you have a top-10 pick, let alone the No. 4 cornerback depth chart as things currently Kyle Trask, quarterback next offseason after playing under the fran- selection. Fortunately, Atlanta gets to trade stand, so Greg Newsome II would be an Florida chise tag in 2021.

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 11 FOOTBALL COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME College Football Hall of Fame Spotlight

down [in a 20-17 overtime road win]. And will live on, which is really special,” said then there was the win over Clemson at Henderson while crediting his high school Byrd Stadium to clinch the ACC coach, Kevin Reilly, as the key to his Championship and everybody rushed the career. “The small percentage of players field… It was a dream season for the team and coaches in the Hall is crazy. To be part and myself.” of this elite group is hard to put into “It went forward from there,” said words…. I am very proud of my team- Maryland teammate Durrand Roundtree, mates, we did it. My wife Chenise and citing Henderson’s Georgia Tech family, we did it. Not just me, I needed that recovery. “We were really good those last support staff, you know, from the begin- two years and that play triggered it… E.J. ning to the end.” was not a hooting and hollering kind of player. He was just 100 percent full speed, E.J. HENDERSON: UP CLOSE even if he was going to the wrong place, ¥ Only two-time consensus First Team always working hard and we respected All-American in Maryland football history him. He was our leader.” ¥ Owns NCAA records for career solo A projected first-round NFL Draft pick, tackles per game (8.8) and single-season Henderson opted to return for his senior solo tackles (135 in 2001) campaign to rehabilitate a back injury. He ¥ Led Maryland in tackles his final three would lead the Terps in tackles with 175 seasons en route to compiling 473 in his while taking home the Bednarik and career, which rank second in Terrapins his- Butkus awards and earning ACC Defensive tory. Player of the Year honors for a second con- ¥ Played for coaches Ron Vanderlinden secutive time. He capped it off as the and . Defensive MVP in a Peach Bowl win over ¥ Becomes the seventh Terrapin player to Tennessee, and the Terps finished 11-3. enter the College Football Hall of Fame. “Going into the Hall means my career

E.J. HENDERSON staff, and it's a total culture shock,” said University of Maryland Henderson. “He comes in with a no-non- Linebacker, 1999-2002 sense grin-and-bear-it type program. Spring ball is gonna be hell. Camp is going to be E.J. Henderson remains the only two- hell. We'll see how it's gonna pan out dur- time consensus First Team All-American in ing the season. All we really had was blind Maryland history, but his Hall of Fame faith, a work-like-hell attitude and some career in College Park almost ended before good recruits.” it ever started. He had to swallow the red- Friedgen made key additions, including shirt pill his freshman year, and the follow- Domonique Foxworth in 2001 and Shawne ing year the Terps added a junior college Merriman in 2002, who supplemented the player in front of him on the roster. talented players playing alongside “It was frustrating not to be able to play Henderson on defense and quarterback my freshman year, and I kind of under- on offense. stood that, but my second year, it was a lit- “We accepted the change and hard tle more frustrating,” said Henderson, who work,” said Henderson. “We decided we had starred at Aberdeen High School an were tired of losing and we could compete hour north of College Park. “I talked to my with the teams in the ACC and win. It was dad [Eric Sr.] a few times about transfer- just a whole prototypical culture shift.” ring to a small school just so I could play, As a junior, Henderson was named but he told me to keep my feet on the ACC Player of the Year after leading the ground and things would work out. So, conference in tackles per game (13.6) and that’s what I did, and I ended up starting tackles for loss (28), and Maryland (10-2) the second to last game at Florida State as claimed the 2001 ACC title, the team’s first a redshirt freshman.” conference championship since 1985. Having secured his starting spot, Henderson and the Terps finished that sea- Henderson led the Terps with 109 tackles son with a trip to the Orange Bowl, a No. as a redshirt sophomore; and, more impor- 11 ranking and the school’s first 10-win tantly, he positioned himself as one of the season since 1976. leaders of a team on the rise. Maryland had “It was a whole new feeling,” said posted back-to-back 5-6 records, and the Henderson. “We go from just being a col- school switched coaches, bringing in Ralph lege football program to the spotlight...My Friedgen for Henderson’s redshirt junior coming out party was against Georgia Tech year. on ESPN Thursday Night, and I had a heck “Coach Friedgen comes in with his new of a game returning a fumble for a touch-

12 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com COLLEGES WITH BO CARTER College Football News and Notes

women’s rowing, and Alabama’s Varsity year of the original 12-year contract, which Eight was Big 12 Boat of the Week for includes the four competing teams chosen meets of Apr. 19-25. In fact, the Big 12 by the selection committee annually....Rice held its 2015-19 rowing championships on named former NC State assistant coach Melton Lake in historic Oak Ridge, Tenn Lindsay Edmonds as its new women’s bas- ….Missouri has returned to the Big 12 ketball head coach…Loyola (Md.) tabbed Conference as an affiliated member for former Minnesota assistant coach Danielle wrestling after a 10-year mission trip to the O’Banion as its new women’s head coach.. Mid-American Conference. The SEC …Boston U. added Melissa D’Amico as its dropped wrestling as a sponsored sport in women’s basketball head coach…Auburn 1986 after a 54-year competitive reign. named former Houston swimming and div- The Lone Star Conference has started ing head coach Ryan Wochomurka as the preparations for a 90-year anniversary of Tigers swimming and diving mentor.... the founding of one of NCAA Division II’s …Boise State head women’s golf coach oldest leagues during the 2021-22 academ- Nicole Bird is leaving the program after 13 ic. Celebrations will be observed through- years.....West Virginia extended head coach out members’ campuses during the year Neal Brown’s contract through the 2026 and through the LSC home office in season…New Norfolk State football head Richardson, Texas. coach Dawson Odoms received a five-year The final regular slate rankings for contract at NSU after guiding Southern U. NCAA FCS included Top Five entries (Baton Rouge) for nine seasons.....The James Madison, South Dakota State, Weber Wisconsin Athletic Board approved con- State, Sam Houston State, and Delaware.... tract extensions for UW head football …The Top Five teams in the final NAIA coach through January 2026, national rankings were California Baptist men’s basketball head coach Greg Gard named former San Diego State associate through May 2026, women’s hockey head 2020 NFF College Hall of Fame inductee of LSU AD for development and executive director coach Mark Johnson and men’s hockey of the Aztec Club Tyler Mariucci as its head coach Tony Granato through June director of athletics...... Lee Moon is retir- 2026, swimming and diving head Yuri all the 2020 and ‘21 Hall inductees. ing this summer as AD at North Florida’ Suguiyama through June 2024, and men’s NFF College Hall of Fame member and There are now 39 states that have adopted wrestling head coach Chris Bono through NFL television analyst Tony Romo com- legislation for names, images and likeness- May 2024. peted in last week’s PGA Korn Ferry Tour es’ compensation for college student-ath- Virginia Tech’s $400 million Reach for event in Arlington, Texas’ letes....Economists recently examined the Excellence campaign will help fund $20 U.S. President Joe Biden has nominated CarrSports Consulting study, which sug- million annually for WT athletics opera- NCAA CEO and chief legal officer Donald gested that Hartford could save $10 million tions, $60 million in renovations to Cassell Remy as Deputy Secretary of Veterans for its 15-sport varsity athletics program by Coliseum and endowed scholarships for Affairs. going from NCAA Division I to DIII....The several years....Several coaches and ADs at The Southwestern Athletic Conference Management leading NCAA institutions are studying the regular-season clash between Texas Committee met last week and discussed 63 budgeting and procedural differences Southern and UAPB had to be cancelled changes for the future of the CFP. These between the NCAA Division I Men’s BO CARTER due to COVID-19 protocols. TSU also had discussions included expanding the pair- Baseball World Series and the NCAA [email protected] to cancel a slated game with Mississippi ings anywhere from 6-16 teams. The group Women’s Softball World Series.... Valley State in WAC action due to similar acknowledged that the CFP is in the eighth (continued on page Scores from the Round of 16 in the circumstances. UAPB meets Alabama NCAA FCS spring tourney from last week A&M Saturday for the delayed SWAC were James Madison 31, VMI 24; gridiron championship. Jacksonville State 49, Davidson 14; Sam The Southwestern Athletic Conference Houston State 21, Monmouth 15; North Championship will be played Saturday, Dakota State 42, Eastern Washington 20; May 1st on ESPN2 at Mississippi South Dakota State 31, Holy Cross 3; Memorial Stadium in Jackson, Miss., North Dakota 44, Missouri State 10; between East (Alabama A&M) and West Southern Illinois 34, Weber State 31; Division (UAPB) champions for the 2020 Delaware 19, Sacred Heart 10. Quarterfinal and '21 spring football championships. contests will take place Saturday. commissioner NAIA quarterfinals have concluded with Greg Sankey was on hand as Kentucky these results from last week: Northwestern made history by helping the conference (Iowa) 27, Grand View (Iowa) 24; Keiser win its 21st NCAA team sport champi- (Fla.) 42, Reinhardt (Ga.) 14; Lindsey onship in the 21 sports the SEC sponsors Wilson (Ky.) 49, Concordia (Mich.) 27; with a 3-1 win over Texas in the NCAA Morningside (Iowa) 45, Baker (Kan.) 29. Women’s Volleyball Championship. The Semifinals will be played Saturday. NCAA has conducted women’s volleyball 2020 NFF College Hall of Fame championships for 40 seasons (since 1982). inductee Glenn Dorsey of LSU was last The claims Alabama week’s highlighted player in a series about and Tennessee as affiliated members in

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 13 ....Numerous schools are working with Creighton assistant basketball coach Howser Trophy presented by The Game with former Grand Canyon standout Kavita NCAA compliance and enforcement on Terrence Rancher has joined the Oklahoma Headwear (famed Tech Akula. Both are hoping at some point to be current and previous issues, and some of men’s basketball coaching staff....Rice baseball alumnus) Skyline Terrace and the the first Indian-born college players to the recognized universities are Arizona, University is changing protocols for wear- Yellow Jacket Heritage Area...... Bryant is make it to the WNBA or NBA.....USA Canisius, Louisville, LSU, Michigan State, ing face masks outdoors on campus and adding three varsity sports for women in Today noted that the Women’s Basketball San Jose State, Tennessee, UCLA, and reports that 82 percent of the students, fac- 2021-22: golf, bowling and rowing with Coaches Association and the NCAA Wofford....The NCAA is allowing up to 50 ulty and staff at RU has been vaccinated to varsity status coming in 2022-23 ..Purdue's Women’s Basketball Oversight Committee percent capacity for its remaining 2021 protect against COVID-19.....Dr. James fiscal year 2021 financial report was $33 met to discuss equity issues during NCAA spring championships and the holdover fall Cash, the first Black basketball student-ath- million better than an earlier anticipated men’s and women’s championships..... 2020 championships such as the FCS tour- lete at TCU from 1965-69, will have a stat- deficit and will lower its debt service pay- ...... Nielsen Ratings announced it would ney, which finishes May 16 at Toyota ue erected outside TCU’s Schollmaier ment for $13-14 annually to $3-4 million. not audit its television ratings for athletics Stadium in Frisco, Texas...... USC has Arena near the Sam Baugh Building, a Oklahoma State’s Amen Ogbom and and other live telecasts due to special cir- aligned with WHOOP for popular WHOOP football workout facility named in memory are projected as two of the cumstances during the last 13 months of straps wearables for Trojans student-ath- of NFF College Hall of Fame member and Top Five choices in the upcoming the pandemic....Former Mid-American, letes....The Athletic penned a story about TCU standout Sam Baugh. Dr. Cash Canadian Football League Draft May 4.... Western Athletic and Sun Belt Conference diversity in the Maryland football program, recently became the first Black professor at ....Award-winning writers, business owners commissioner and NFLL administrator including a female director of football Harvard to have a building named after him and sports legends Ken and Ryly Jane Karl Benson was featured on the Boise operations and a female football adminis- Ð the Cash House Ð and is member of the Hambleton are new inductees into the 2020 State athletics podcast and spoke on key trator, team physician and director of nutri- board of trustees of the National Nebraska Sports Hall of Fame.....New Kent topics such as the NCAA open transfer rul- tion.....Maryland athletics honored former Association of Basketball Coaches. State AD Randale L. Richmond gave a ings, student-athletes’ compensation and student-athletes Darryl Jones and Billy Hill College gamers continue to formalize positive assessment of KSU athletics possible additional conference realignment during the inauguration ceremonies for competition on the college level with the because of a staff, which loves working in NCAA Division I and other subdivi- president Dr. Darryl Pines. Jones was inaugural Collegiate Esports National with Golden Flashes athletics and a strong sions.....Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports Maryland’s and the ACC’s first Black Championship hosted by Collegiate Sports willingness by alumni to give monetary reported that last week the NCAA Council men’s basketball student-athlete in 1965 Management Group at dates and sites to be support to the department...... The names, did not take action on third party adminis- while Hill integrated the color barrier for determined....Idaho State AD Pauline images and likenesses’ bill for student-ath- trators for the names, images and likeness- ACC football in 1963. UM named the new Thiros related that ISU will add at least letes’ compensation has been signed and es’ compensation measures and may put it football operations building the Jones-Hill one women’s sport in the next 3-5 years to will go into effect July 1. Alabama’s, on the group’s May docket.....Former House in their honor....Former Clemson help comply with NCAA Title IX regula- Florida’s, New Mexico’s, and Arizona’s Georgia deputy AD for development and QB Trevor Lawrence, expected to be the tions....Historically Black College and similar bills also are set for effective dates executive director of the Bulldog Club No. 1 NFL Draft choice of the Jacksonville Universities are attempting to add men’s or in mid-summer.....Louisville AD Vince Matt Borman accepted a position as LSU’s Jaguars, already has endorsement agree- women’s gymnastics programs for the first Tyra noted the Cardinals athletics 2021 president/CEO of the Tiger Athletic ments with Gatorade and adidas.....The time. Grambling has taken a first step with budget shortfall is $9.9 million through Foundation.....The San Jose (Calif.) state of Florida concluded an agreement a July conference known as Brown Girls mid-April and could drop to as low as $5.5 Mercury News newspaper mentioned that with the Seminole Tribe of Florida to legal- Do Gymnastics for the fifth consecutive by December with alumni contributions Arizona president Robert Robbins will ize statewide mobile sports betting and in- year. and a short-term loan from longtime UL complete his current contract in summer stadium retail sportsbooks at all public The final edition prior to the start of the supporting group Republic Bank...Montana 2022, and a possible extension is in the off- sports venues. There are 30-plus colleges 2021-22 college basketball season of the State's $18 million Bobcat Athletic ing…Northwestern (La.) State president and universities, which will require stu- Basketball Times newsletter has been Complex is set to open on schedule in Dr. Chris Maggio is retiring after 33 years dents, faculty and staff to be vaccinated emailed to USBWA members....Incoming August.....Wisconsin athletics is working at NSU and the last four as president.... against COVID-19 for the fall semester Oral Roberts AD Tim Johnson spoke of with the family and estate of the late Mrs. …University of Dallas AD Dick Stockbrine with the California State University and being groomed to take the place of retiring Marion Lou Coyle to find proper attribu- is retiring at the age of 80 this summer University of California systems being two AD Mike Carter and how the experience tion for a $500,000 grant willed to the after 26 years at UD and six decades of of the largest entities.....The Arkansas has increased Johnson’s leadership savvy. Badgers tennis program.....West Virginia military or athletics’ service…The Sun Belt Razorback Foundation has settled its legal Former CAA administrator Nick Khan men's soccer match with SIU-Edwardsville Conference named former Ivy League actions with former UA and current Illinois was saluted for his work in obtaining maxi- in regular season activity was cancelled last assistant executive director of communica- head coach Bret Bielema. Texas, mum television exposure and key live week due to COVID-19 protocols by the tions and championships Sam Knehans as Anterrioius Gray of North Texas, Austin sporting events in primetime slots. Mid-American Conference.....Portland associate commissioner for communica- Ogunmakin (to Liberty) of North Texas, Florida-based attorney Darren Heitner State has named former PSU assistant tions and branding.....Sacramento State and Tre Siggers (to SMU) of North Texas, and Opendorse CEO Blake Lawrence have women’s head basketball coach Chelsey named former Oregon women’s basketball Zep Jasper (to Auburn) of College of been discussing the options of allowing Gregg as the team’s new head coach…Utah assistant coach Mark Campbell as its new Charleston, Jordan Goldwire (to third-party groups to continue to work with State women's soccer head coach Heather women’s head coach…LSU release former Oklahoma) from Duke, Brady Manek (to colleges and universities on names, images Cairns is leaving her position after 18 sea- women’s basketball head coach Nikki ) from Oklahoma, and Matt and likenesses’ marketing and compensa- sons…New Cincinnati head men’s basket- Fargas last Saturday....former Baylor Lynch (to Colorado) of UCLA. Texas tion...... Texas' new Moody Center has ball coach Wes Miller finalized his contract women’s head coach and Tickfaw, Tech’s Mac McClung has exited the trans- signed Dell Computers as its premier for six years with ample compensation. Louisiana, native near Baton Rouge, fer portal for the 2021-22 academic year. founding partner. Dell CEO and founder ESPN acknowledged solid ratings and Louisiana, Kim Mulkey has taken the head Washington LB Zion Tupuola-Fetui is Michael Dell constructed his first computer much appreciation by the NCAA for tele- womens basketball coach job at LSU.... expected to be sidelined 6-10 months after in a residence hall on the Austin campus.... vising last week’s NCAA Division I ....Eastern Kentucky women’s basketball tearing an Achilles tendon in practice....The .....JMI Sports has added the Thoroughbred Women's Gymnastics Championship live head coach Samantha Williams is leaving NCAA Playing Rules Oversight Racing Association’s Breeders' Cup to its for the first time nationally on ABC from her position and will become women’s bas- Committee will adjust overtime periods in portfolio and clients’ list. The TRA also is the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas..... ketball recruiting coordinator and assistant college football for ’21 with two-point con- one of the partners with Vanderbilt’s presti- The Boston (Mass.) Globe newspaper coach at Tennessee…per sources.... version tries beginning in the second over- gious Fred Russell-Grantland Rice Sports penned a story about various in-person and …Portland State named Jase Coburn head time and the ball being placed on the three- Writing Scholarship presented annually in virtual commencement ceremonies at col- men’s basketball coach.Tennessee State yard line for one play beginning in the memory of Vanderbilt sports journalism leges in high schools and how local head football coach and NFF College Hall third extra period. NCAA studies showed great Fred Russell (longtime NFF member) COVID-19 ruling affect the attendance and of Fame running back at Ohio State Eddie that overtime games last fall averaged 16.4 and NFF tri-founder in 1947 Grantland capping and gowning.....CBS News did an George to a five-year contract with several plays.....Former Tulsa and Wake Forest Rice...... Georgia Tech has finished Phase II interesting feature on Northern Arizona incentives…Norfolk State men’s head bas- head coach Danny Manning is going to of renovations at Mac Nease Baseball Park women’s basketball student-athlete Sanjana ketball head coach Robert Jones has inked Maryland as an assistant men’s basketball at Russ Chandler Stadium with a new Ramesh, the second Indian-born female to a five-year contract extension through the coach…Former Texas standout and Champions Hall, the NCBWA Dick play NCAA Division I basketball along 2027-28 season…Virginia head swimming

14 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com and diving coach Todd DeSorbo had his Arena near the Sam Baugh Building, a contract extended through the 2026-27 sea- football workout facility named in memory son....The Out of Bounds publication pon- of NFF College Hall of Fame member and tificated on the effect on the NCAA names, TCU standout Sam Baugh. Dr. Cash images and likenesses’ legislation and recently became the first Black professor at future WNBA players while they are in Harvard to have a building named after him college…The NCAA released a video Ð the Cash House Ð and is member of the about its stance on transgender student-ath- board of trustees of the National letes in team and individual competition. Association of Basketball Coaches. North Dakota AD Bill Chaves explained College gamers continue to formalize how UND student-athletes flocked to competition on the college level with the receive COVID-19 vaccinations after the inaugural Collegiate Esports National state made anyone 16 years and older eligi- Championship hosted by Collegiate Sports ble for the meds Ð especially the North Management Group at dates and sites to be Dakota football squad prior to NCAA FCS determined....Idaho State AD Pauline postseason contests.....Sportico editorial- Thiros related that ISU will add at least ized about rapid changes in television one women’s sport in the next 3-5 years to sports’ business model and a large drop in help comply with NCAA Title IX regula- traditional TV watching by millennials in tions....Historically Black College and the 18-33 years’ age group.....Two Universities are attempting to add men’s or Oklahoma student-athletes and the depart- women’s gymnastics programs for the first ment are working with local officials to time. Grambling has taken a first step with gather information about an episode in the a July conference known as Brown Girls Norman, Okla., area last week.....Dapper Do Gymnastics for the fifth consecutive Labs, which developed behind NBA and year. NCAA Top Shots, has gathered funding for Historically Black College and continuing to remain a private company or Universities are attempting to add men’s or to make an initial public stock offering women’s gymnastics programs for the first totaling $7.5 billion.....Some key names in time. Grambling has taken a first step with the NCAA transfer portal are Tyler Pogue a July conference known as Brown Girls of Mississippi State, Jacobi Lott of Kansas, Do Gymnastics for the fifth consecutive Dylan Disu (to Texas) of Vanderbilt, Phillip year.....Former Arizona and current NFL Paea of Michigan, Gavin Screws of Troy, /Super Bowl LV standout Michael Collins (to Rice) of TCU, Jacob hopes to have a Guinness Book of World Kibodi of Texas A&M, Dae Williams of Records’ standard verified for catching a Louisville, Jordan Pouncey (to Florida) of football dropped 600 feet from a helicopter Texas, Anterrioius Gray of North Texas, before the UA spring game in Tucson.... Austin Ogunmakin (to Liberty) of North ....Media observers the Kosner and Desser Texas, and Tre Siggers (to SMU) of North Group addressed current media rights and Texas, Zep Jasper (to Auburn) of College the future of negotiating media deals on the of Charleston, Jordan Goldwire (to college and professional sports levels. The Oklahoma) from Duke, Brady Manek (to updates specifically dealt with ESPN’s and North Carolina) from Oklahoma, and Matt Warner Media’s latest and possible future Lynch (to Colorado) of UCLA. Texas updates....Texas’ defense seemed to domi- Tech’s Mac McClung has exited the trans- nate last weekend’s Orange-White game fer portal for the 2021-22 academic year. under first-year head coach Steve Washington LB Zion Tupuola-Fetui is Sarkisian, but WR Marcus Washington expected to be sidelined 6-10 months after enjoyed a solid afternoon and returning tearing an Achilles tendon in practice....The kicker Cameron Dicker hammered a 58- NCAA Playing Rules Oversight yard …Texas A&M, ranked Committee will adjust overtime periods in among the Top Five or 10 nationally in college football for ’21 with two-point con- most early preseason polls, got some version tries beginning in the second over- strong performances from RB Isaiah time and the ball being placed on the three- Spiller, QB Zach Calzada, QB Haynes yard line for one play beginning in the King, WR Chase Lane, and WR Hezekiah third extra period. NCAA studies showed Jones while multiple defenders exerted that overtime games last fall averaged 16.4 themselves in the annual Maroon-White plays.....Former Tulsa and Wake Forest game. The Aggies are seeking to plug some head coach Danny Manning is going to holes in the offensive line prior to the ’21 Maryland as an assistant men’s basketball season opener Sept. 4....Former Kentucky coach…Former Texas standout and student-athlete Terrence Clark passed away Creighton assistant basketball coach after an automobile accident in Los Terrence Rancher has joined the Oklahoma Angeles April 22. He was 19. Incoming men’s basketball coaching staff....Rice North Texas football signee Willie University is changing protocols for wear- Hamilton III passed away in Austin, Texas, ing face masks outdoors on campus and April 18. The former Elgin (Texas) HS reports that 82 percent of the students, fac- standout was 18…Walter Mondale, vice ulty and staff at RU has been vaccinated to president of the United States from 1977- protect against COVID-19.....Dr. James 81 under the Jimmy Carter administration Cash, the first Black basketball student-ath- and a lifelong football fan of his alma lete at TCU from 1965-69, will have a stat- mater Minnesota, passed away April 19th ue erected outside TCU’s Schollmaier in Minneapolis. He was 93.

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 15 COLLEGES NCAA BASEBALL Arkansas still at No. 1 in NCBWA Division I Poll

DALLAS - The National Collegiate 15), Wright State (18-10). Baseball Writers Association continues its Dropped Out tradition of NCAA Division I polls for the Miami (Fla.) (23), Indiana State (27), 24th year with its 2021 weekly surveys, Virginia Tech (29), Georgia Tech (30). and Arkansas is No. 1 for the 2021-high By Conference sixth week this season. SEC 8, Pac-12 5, ACC 4, Big 12 4, Southeastern Conference schools - Conference USA 3, American Athletic 1, Arkansas, Florida, Ole Miss, and Big Ten 2, Big West 2, West Coast 1. Vanderbilt Ð also have topped each of the No. 1 Schools by Week: NCBWA Top 30 polls in ’21. Preseason (Florida); Feb. 23 (Ole Miss); Several schools moved up places from March 1-15, April 12-26 (Arkansas); the April 19 survey, and these included March 22-April 5 (Vanderbilt). Tennessee from No. 5 to 4, TCU from No. -www.ncbwa.com- 8 to 6, Florida from No. 10 to 8, Louisville NCBWA BASEBALL - Top 25 from No. 11 to 9, and Arizona with the (Games played through 4/26) largest jump of the week from No. 17 to 1. Arkansas 10. The top three teams Ð Arkansas, 2. Vanderbilt Vanderbilt and Texas Ð from last week 3. Texas remained the same. 4. Tennessee There have been 13 conferences (nine 5. Mississippi State for the third successive week) represented 6. TCU in the first 11 standings of 2021, and there 7. East Carolina were 15 different conferences included in 8. Florida the COVID-19 abbreviated NCBWA polls 9. Louisville in 2020. 10. Arizona The 2021 poll voters come from among 11. Texas Tech 33 college baseball writers and related 12. Oregon media persons from throughout the nation. 13. Notre Dame The ’21 season features 302 NCAA 14. South Carolina Division I baseball-playing schools, and for 15. Ole Miss more information or to join the NCBWA 16. Stanford please go to www.ncbwa.com. 17. Charlotte Also Receiving Votes (Alphabetically) 18. Louisiana Tech Alabama (24-15), Arizona State (22-13), 19. Oklahoma State Baylor (26-13), California Baptist (25-11), 20. Pittsburgh Dallas Baptist (22-10), Fairfield (25-0), 21. Georgia Florida Atlantic (21-19), Georgia Southern 22. Oregon State (24-15), Georgia Tech (19-16), Grand 23. Old Dominion Canyon (23-15-1), Indiana (18-8), Indiana 24. UC Irvine State (21-11), Iowa (17-11), Jackson State 25. Florida State (22-8), Kansas State (23-16), Kentucky 26. UCLA (24-13), Liberty (27-10), LSU (24-15), 27. Gonzaga Miami (FL) (22-13), NC State (19-13), San 28. Michigan Diego (24-8), San Diego State (22-9), 29. Nebraska Southern Illinois (26-12), Southern Miss 30. UC Santa Barbara (26-13), Tulane (21-13), Virginia Tech (21-

16 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 17 AUTO CHEVROLET BLAZER Chevy Blazer #11 in best midsize SUVs

The base engine for front-wheel-drive (FWD) versions of the 2020 Blazer is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit developing a more than reasonable 193 horsepower. New for this year is the 230-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in the 2LT and 3LT trims where front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive (AWD) becomes available as an option. The RS and Premier models enjoy a gutsy 3.6-liter V6 (which can be added to the mid-level 2LT and 3LT trims for $500). Each engine has a fuel-saving engine stop/start function that can be deactivated. Active grille shutters (for aerodynamic and thermal efficiency) are also standard. All-wheel drive (AWD) comes in either a basic setup or, exclusive to the RS and Premier trims, GM’s twin-clutch arrange- ment that can direct power to the outside By Matt Degen finicky to drive smoothly at parking-lot Blacked-out A- and C-pillars conspire rear wheel, bringing greater agility through speeds. with striking body lines to create a tasty the corners. Both systems have a mode that To appreciate the Chevrolet Blazer is to The 9-speed automatic transmission is a aesthetic for all Blazer variants. However, disconnects the rear axle for optimum effi- cast aside any memories of — or expecta- fine complement to any of the Blazer’s moving up to the Premier trim dresses up ciency when conditions allow. tions based on — previous sport-utility power sources, optimizing acceleration and the package with chrome accents and 20- All versions of the Chevy Blazer employ vehicles of the same name. That was then fuel economy. inch wheels. Reserved for the Blazer RS a competent 9-speed automatic transmis- and this is now. The Blazer’s standard infotainment are sporty 20-inch wheels, dark exterior sion. Looking to compete with rides like the interface includes a high-resolution 8-inch accents and revised exhaust outlets. 2.5-liter inline-4 Ford Edge, Honda Passport and Nissan touch screen featuring clear icons, a logical The most basic and therefore least 193 horsepower @ 6,300 rpm; 188 lb-ft of Murano, the Blazer is a 5-seater midsize- interface, and standard smartphone integra- expensive Chevy Blazer is the L trim. It torque @ 4,400 rpm; EPA city/highway crossover SUV with talents better suited to tion via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. still comes with plenty of features, though, fuel economy: 21/27 mpg (FWD) tarmac than tricky terrain. That’s not a crit- 360-DEGREE CAMERA SYSTEM such as dual-zone automatic climate con- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 icism, however. After all, suburban speed Midsize-crossover SUVs aren’t always the trol, 8-inch infotainment touch screen, 230 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm; 258 lb-ft of humps are usually the toughest obstacles easiest of vehicles to park. This optional Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone torque @ 1,500-4,000 rpm; EPA city/high- most crossover SUVs ever face. surround-view camera setup removes a lot integration, 18-inch alloy wheels, four way fuel economy: 21/28 mpg (FWD), To consolidate the new Blazer’s appeal, of guesswork and the potential for dings, USB ports (two regular and two type-C), 21/27 mpg (AWD) the amount of standard equipment is gener- revealing any hazards that might otherwise leather-wrapped steering wheel, and key- 3.6-liter V6 ous. As well as a luxurious range-topper, be hidden from sight. It’s also extremely less entry/ignition. 308 horsepower @ 6,700 rpm; 270 lb-ft of there’s also a sporty RS version to compete useful when connecting a trailer. Sadly, it’s This wouldn’t be our recommended torque @ 5,000 rpm; EPA city/highway with the Ford Edge ST. not available until the 3LT trim. choice, though. The 2LT model isn’t much fuel economy: 19/26 mpg (FWD), 18/25 There’s a pleasant balancing act of A streamlined dashboard housing the more expensive, has a little more equip- mpg (AWD) absorbing bumps while keeping body roll infotainment system’s 8-inch display ment and comes with the new turbocharged The Blazer range sets out with the front- in check and bringing some life to the underlines the new Blazer’s modernity. The engine. It’s also eligible for more options. drive L trim, which has a Manufacturer’s steering. Selectable driving modes include cool Camaro-inspired center vents allow Getting all-wheel drive into a new Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $28,800, Sport, Tow and Off-road (probably the one temperature adjustment just by rotating Blazer means stretching at least to the 2LT plus a destination charge of $1,195, bring- that will be used the least). They change them. Stowage spots include a passenger- level. The lower LT trim becomes eligible ing the total to $29,995. Next is the 1LT the responses of the steering, throttle and side map slot, door and seatback pockets, for blind-spot monitoring with rear cross- model, priced from $33,495. transmission. plus an electronically locking glove box. traffic alert, lane-change alert and rear The new engine for comes in at the 2LT The enthusiast-minded Blazer RS ver- And there are soft points wherever the parking sensors. These items are standard level, starting at $33,995. It also propels sion has quicker steering action and a front occupants’ elbows come to rest. in the 3LT. the 3LT, from $38,195. The top two trims sportier suspension than the regular mod- Rear-seat passengers enjoy ample space, The RS may be ordered with 21-inch are RS ($41,795 before options) and els, yet the ride quality remains acceptable. climate-control vents and convenient alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera system, Premier ($43,895 in front-drive form). We In any version, drivers will notice the quiet slide/recline seats. The Blazer’s luggage forward-collision mitigation with automatic configured an all-wheel-drive Premier cabin (active noise cancellation helps here), area of 30.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats emergency braking, and adaptive cruise model, adding driver aids, a rear-seat enter- excellent forward vision and confident is smaller than the Ford Edge’s but roomy control. These driver aids are also optional tainment system plus a few other goodies, braking. enough for most needs. For larger loads, in the top Premier trim; the Honda Passport and the total came to $53,445. But the The V6 engine in the RS and Premier release levers located conveniently in the is one rival that packs such features as Chevy retail site was already chopping trims does its own balancing act of being cargo area create a flat load floor. standard. One extra that’s often found in $2,500 from that figure. punchy yet smooth. It’s this engine and all- Contrasting rugged Blazers of the past, GM vehicles is the Safety Alert Seat that In L trim, the Blazer is priced similarly wheel drive that enable the maximum tow this model blazes its own design path. For cuts through the visual and audible infor- to entry-level Ford Edge and Nissan rating of 4,500 pounds. starters, it has four doors where older ver- mation with a fundamental sensation to the Murano models. Slightly less expensive The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is a sions had two. At its nose the new Blazer driver’s posterior. than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Honda welcome addition, providing more muscle features thin, sharply drawn “headlights” Other options include Wi-Fi, wireless Passport (both of those vehicles have all- than the base unit. that aren’t headlights at all but rather LED charging, panoramic sunroof, up to six wheel drive as standard). If all-wheel The base engine has a tendency to surge running lights. The actual headlights sit USB ports, and automatic high beams. drive on a budget is preferred, check out when applying light throttle, making it midway down the fascia. 2020 Chevrolet Blazer Engine the less expensive new Subaru Outback.

18 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com TICKET WINDOW

Follow us on twitter @sportspagedfw | www.sportspagedfw.com | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 - Issue 36 | April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 19 20 April 30, 2021 - May 6, 2021 | The Sports Page Weekly | Volume 19 Issue 36 | www.sportspagedfw.com | follow us on twitter @sportspagdfw.com