Robert Dougherty
Author of a trilogy of Lost books, concluding with "Lost: It Only Ends Once" now available at Amazon and iUniverse.
Readers can now go to my Yahoo Sports section to see the majority of my new stories.
Have now been quoted in the Columbus Dispatch's "How the golden voice video went viral" story on January 8.
Expertise: News, television, movies, pop culture, Lost, sports
Wrote the Sports Illustrated Guide to Philadelphia Sports in 2010, at http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/specials/fan-guide-2010/philadelphia.html
Was interviewed on CNN's "The Situation Room" in 2009: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GStMLFMdRcQ
Ranked No. 5 all time in AC page view numbers.
Can now be friended on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Robert-Dougherty/100001856277096
Named 2010's Most Intriging Writer about Movies by Charlotte Kuchinsky, at http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6101106/robert_dougherty_named_most_intriguing.html
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Readers can now go to my Yahoo Sports section to see the majority of my new stories.
Have now been quoted in the Columbus Dispatch's "How the golden voice video went viral" story on January 8.
Expertise: News, television, movies, pop culture, Lost, sports
Wrote the Sports Illustrated Guide to Philadelphia Sports in 2010, at http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/specials/fan-guide-2010/philadelphia.html
Was interviewed on CNN's "The Situation Room" in 2009: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GStMLFMdRcQ
Ranked No. 5 all time in AC page view numbers.
Can now be friended on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/Robert-Dougherty/100001856277096
Named 2010's Most Intriging Writer about Movies by Charlotte Kuchinsky, at http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/6101106/robert_dougherty_named_most_intriguing.html
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Education/Experience
Bachelor of Arts from Temple University
Displaying Results 1 - 200 (of 680) for Yahoo! US News
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Phillies, Brewers Somehow Eying Winning Records, Return to Postseason: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies and Brewers almost faced off in last year's NLCS, then both tanked in 2012 after getting upset by the Cardinals last October. But now both clubs have made stunning rallies to get to .500 - and to get close to catching the Cardinals this time.Also published on:
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Phillies Make Incredible Rallies to Beat Brewers, Resign Hamels: A Fan's TakeFor the second straight game, the Phillies came from nowhere to stun the Brewers late last night. But that was nothing compared to their rally this morning, as they came back to give Cole Hamels his long term deal in Philadelphia after all.Also published on:
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McCann, Braves Put Final Nail in Phillies' First Half Coffin: A Fan's TakeThe first half of the season ended in perhaps the only way it could for the Phillies - with another blown early lead to the Braves, another Brian McCann home run, another blown game from the bullpen, and virtually no offense late to seal a 4-3 loss.Also published on:
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Iguodala Selected by Team USA Despite Uncertain Future with 76ers: A Fan's AnalysisAndre Iguodala is the most attractive trade bait the 76ers have if they want to make a big deal this offseason. Yet even if the Sixers don't want him anymore, Team USA is another matter, as he won one of the final spots on the Olympic roster anyway.Also published on:
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Phillies Still Can't Score with Healthy Offense: A Fan's TakeFor the first time, the Phillies have all of their offensive stars healthy. But ever since Ryan Howard was activated, the Phillies have now scored in just one of 18 innings, as the Braves shut them down again en route to a 6-3 win.Also published on:
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Phillies Waste Howard's Comeback Worse Than They Wasted Utley's: A Fan's TakeWhen Chase Utley returned, he hit a homer and the Phillies looked good again - then they went on a 1-7 skid. When Ryan Howard returned last night, he got some hits of his own - yet naturally, the other Phillies got few hits and no runs against the Braves.Also published on:
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Allen Breaks Up Celtics Big Four to Form Heat Big Four: A Fan's AnalysisAfter Kevin Garnett resigned with Boston, it looked like the Celtics' Big Four would stay together after all. Instead, Ray Allen has not only left them, he has given the arch-rival Heat a Big Four that may dominate the league even more.Also published on:
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Phillies End Bizarre Night with Bizarre Blown Save to Mets: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies and Mets were supposed to barely score with Cole Hamels and R.A. Dickey on the mound, but it didn't turn out that way. Then the Phillies were supposed to have a win all wrapped up in the ninth - but it sadly didn't turn out that way either.Also published on:
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Phillies Finally Flip Script, Win Late for Lee: A Fan's PerspectiveOnce again, Cliff Lee and the Phillies looked lost and defeated for the first six innings against the Mets on July 4. But for once, the Phillies came through late for Lee, as nine late runs finally made it impossible for him not to win.Also published on:
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Phillies Have No Pulse in Latest Loss to Mets: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies should be fighting for their season this week against the Mets and Braves. Yet there was absolutely no fight in the so-called Fighting Phils on July 3, as the Mets utterly destroyed them with their offense and their pitching.Also published on:
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Phillies Fight for Their Season Against Mets, Braves This Week: A Fan's OutlookThe Phillies already got buried back into last place by getting swept by the Marlins last week. As such, if they fall even further behind the Mets and Braves after six games against them this week, it could all but pull the plug on this season.Also published on:
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Phillies Get Their Only Three Stars onto All-Star Game Roster: A Fan's AnalysisThe Phillies got three players on the All-Star Game roster, which would seem to suggest they were doing well. But Cole Hamels, Jonathan Papelbon and Carlos Ruiz had to deliver All-Star worthy first halves because no other Phillies were helping them.Also published on:
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Phillies Cut the Cord with Thome for Second Time: A Fan's TakeDespite being beloved in Philadelphia from 2003 to 2005, the Phillies had no choice but to send him away. And despite a few final spurts of brilliance in his return back this year, the Phillies had no choice but to send Thome away again yesterday.Also published on:
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Phillies Can No Longer Take Blame for Lee's Winless Start: A Fan's AnalysisIt was very easy to blame the Phillies offense and bullpen - or anything else other than Cliff Lee - for Lee's winless start this year. However, after a fourth straight bad outing and another loss to the Marlins, Lee now must take much of the blame.Also published on:
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Phillies Let Potentially Big Series with Pirates Slip Away: A Fan's PerspectiveThe Phillies looked poised to blow through the Pirates this week as they got Chase Utley back, which could have set the tone for a season-saving run. Instead, two straight gutwrenching losses turned this series into a massive missed opportunity.Also published on:
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Crosby Scheduled to Keep Pestering Flyers with Penguins Until 2025: A Fan's OutlookSidney Crosby's long term future remains iffy, yet the Penguins think he can avoid more concussions for the next 13 years. With a 12-year contract extension in place for Crosby, rivals like the Flyers have time to make the Penguins pay for their gamble.Also published on:
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Phillies Let Harsh Reality Ruin Utley's Big Return: A Fan's TakeFor one moment, the good old days in Philadelphia were back, after Chase Utley's first at-bat of 2012 ended with a home run. Then the Pirates started hitting and brought the Phillies down all over again with an 11-7 win.Also published on:
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Allen's 'Mutual Interest' with Heat Would Help, Hurt 76ers: A Fan's AnalysisThe breakup of the Celtics' Big Three would help the 76ers get closer to taking over the Atlantic Division. But if the breakup starts with Ray Allen going to the Heat, of all teams, the hopes for the Sixers to challenge Miami would take another hit.Also published on:
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Phillies Build Momentum Before Utley's Return: A Fan's OutlookThe Phillies pulled out a second straight win over the Pirates without Chase Utley. But now that he seems ready to come back, it should presumably make it even easier to keep winning - at least that is why the Phillies are betting the season on.Also published on:
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Phillies Take Advantage of Sloppy Pirates: A Fan's TakeThe Pirates have actually been the best team in Pennsylvania - but fortunately, the former best team caught them on a bad night. The Phillies capitalized on four Pirates errors for an 8-3 win, starting a series which could end with Chase Utley's return.Also published on:
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Hamels, Lee Unlucky Again in Phillies Doubleheader Sweep: A Fan's OutlookThe hard luck Cliff Lee failed again to win at the end of the Phillies' doubleheader with the Rays. But he wasn't as hard luck as Cole Hamels in Game 1, as he shut the Rays down for seven innings before the bullpen wasted it all.Also published on:
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Thome's Winning Blast Lifts Phillies Out of Last Place After All: A Fan's TakeJonathan Papelbon blew his first save for the Phillies in painful fashion yesterday, which could have wrecked their chance to finally get out of last place. However, Jim Thome saved him and the team with a stunning leadoff home run to do the job.Also published on:
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Schilling Second Leader of 1993 Phillies to Become Bankrupt: A Fan's TakeLenny Dykstra and Curt Schilling turned the 1993 Phillies into pennant winners who are still beloved by Philadelphia. 19 years later, Dykstra is in jail for financial fraud, while Schilling has suddenly fallen into bankruptcy himself.Also published on:
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James Wears Critics Down in NBA Finals: A Fan's AnalysisFor the last two years, loathing LeBron James and the Heat after 'The Decision' was America's favorite pastime. Yet two years, one championship, and one return to likability for James later, the critics are starting to wave the white flag.Also published on:
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Rays' Future Becoming Brighter Than Phillies Since 2008 World Series: A Fan's AnalysisThe Rays and Phillies are meeting again this weekend, four years after their 2008 World Series battle. But although they lost that series, the Rays are looking a lot better in the long term than the Phillies are right now.Also published on:
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Phillies Remember How to Make Last-Minute Comeback Over Rockies: A Fan's TakeLate rallies and unlikely comebacks had been common for the Phillies in the last four years. It hasn't been so common this year, yet the Phillies revived those good old days for one night by rallying over the Rockies with one out to spare.Also published on:
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Hamels Goes Back to Stopping the Bleeding for Phillies: A Fan's PerspectiveCole Hamels has been the Phillies' only reliable ace this year, and even he had been coming down to Earth lately. But when the Phils needed a win to start erasing an ugly road trip, Hamels came through again by shutting the Rockies down for eight innings.Also published on:
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Dickey Reaches Levels that Not Even Phillies Aces Have Surpassed: A Fan's AnalysisAs much as the Phillies have been blessed by Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels over the years, they have never done what R.A. Dickey has done for the Mets in going 11-1 with two straight one-hitters - which is especially painful this season.Also published on:
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Phillies Swept by Blue Jays as Rest of NL East Struggles: A Fan's OutlookThe only positive thing from a weekend in which the Phillies got swept by the Blue Jays was that the rest of the NL East did little better. In fact, both the Nationals and Mets got swept by red hot teams while the Braves and Marlins could barely score.Also published on:
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Phillies Wait Until Eighth to Cost Lee Another Win: A Fan's PerspectiveCliff Lee's latest chance for his first win got him as far as having a three-run lead going into the eighth. But right on cue, an inability to finish and a Jimmy Rollins error gave Lee another no-decision, before the Phillies got another loss in Toronto.Also published on:
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Phillies Go Back to Losing with Little Offense: A Fan's OutlookThe Phillies had actually been losing slugfests instead of low scoring games during their current road trip. Yet the offense finally went back to sleep against the Blue Jays in a more typical 3-0 loss, even though the Toronto bullpen did all the work.Also published on:
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Phillies Ride Thome's Revival on Interleague Road Trip: A Fan's OutlookJim Thome's second stint in Philadelphia was treading water, until he returned to American League parks and got a DH slot. Thome's third home run of the road trip thus far made the difference last night, as the Phillies beat his old team in Minnesota.Also published on:
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Phillies' Rivals Nearly Have Two No-Hitters in One Night: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies' pitching no longer dominates baseball, yet their rivals are reaching new heights. In one night, the Mets' red hot R.A. Dickey nearly got them their second no-hitter, before Phillies' killer Matt Cain gave the Giants their first perfect game.Also published on:
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Phillies on the Brink of Falling Too Far Behind Nationals: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies are clinging to hope that when they get healthy again, they'll rally to challenge for first place again. Yet with the Phillies now almost 10 games behind the Nationals for first place, that dream could already be on life support.Also published on:
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Mariners' Combined No-Hitter Over Dodgers Shows Up Phillies: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies just got swept in four games by the Dodgers at home, as it felt like they needed a no-hitter to win any of these games. Naturally, the Mariners got a combined no-hitter over the Dodgers a night later, led by former Phillie Kevin Millwood.Also published on:
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Even Hamels Cannot Save Phillies from Dodgers: A Fan's PerspectiveDespite losing three straight to the Dodgers, the Phillies figured that Cole Hamels would give them at least one win, since he doesn't lose to teams other than the Marlins. Yet even with a 3-0 lead with Hamels, the Phillies still couldn't win anyway.Also published on:
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Lee Falls One Pitch Short for Phillies This Time: A Fan's PerspectiveThe Phillies and Cliff Lee just keep finding new ways to lose together. This time, Lee was one pitch away from finishing eight innings of shutout ball against the Dodgers and likely getting a 1-0 win. But that last pitch kept him winless anyway.Also published on:
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Mets, Santana No-Hitter Sets Bar for Phillies, Halladay: A Fan's AnalysisJohan Santana's recovery from major shoulder surgery culminated last night, when he gave the Mets their very first no-hitter anyway. As such, the Phillies have to figure that Roy Halladay can be just as great again when his shoulder heals as well.Also published on:
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Halladay Gets Sidelined as Oswalt Gets Another Title Shot: A Fan's TakeThe Phillies had both Roy Halladay and Roy Oswalt around once upon a time. But Oswalt left Philadelphia a while ago and now Halladay is gone for the next two months - just as Oswalt has gotten a real title shot again by joining the powerful Rangers.Also published on:
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Heat Big Winner with 76ers-Celtics Game 7: A Fan's TakeThe Celtics lost a chance to eliminate the 76ers early and get some rest before the conference finals. Now the Heat are set to take advantage if they can eliminate the Pacers early, then sit back while the Sixers and Celtics keep wrecking each other.Also published on:
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Celtics Face Another Bout of Surprising Adversity from 76ers: A Fan's TakeThe Celtics weren't supposed to get tested that much from the 76ers, yet after Game 4, they have to rally back from adversity yet again in this series. Can they seize control again and keep it this time, or are they getting too worn out?Also published on:
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Like 76ers, Knicks Still Can't Get Past Heat: A Fan's AnalysisThe 76ers have hit a wall against the Heat ever since the last postseason. But the Knicks' Heat-sized wall is getting bigger too, as they lost another chance to knock off Miami yesterday - making a postseason rematch look more ominous.Also published on:
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Can Knicks Inch Closer to Challenging Heat in Playoffs?: A Fan's AnalysisThe first dominio of 'Linsanity' fell when the Knicks were dominated by the Heat in late February. Now the Knicks are rising again and have another shot to challenge the Heat today - and to send a message for a possible playoff rematch.Also published on:
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76ers Still Find Themselves Square with Eastern Elite: A Fan's AnalysisBy now the 76ers were expected to fall to Earth after an easy start, and they still might. But at this moment after a big win over the Bulls, the Sixers are right there among five teams leading the Eastern Conference with only six losses.Also published on:
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Giants' Late Defensive Revival Pays Off More Than that of Eagles: A Fan's TakeThe Giants and Eagles were held back by defense for the vast majority of the season, at least until mid-December. But when the Eagles got good on defense, it just kept the coaching staff intact, while the Giants got a Super Bowl berth for their revival.Also published on:
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Eagles, Giants, Patriots Living a Groundhog Day Existence: A Fan's OutlookIt makes sense that today is Groundhog Day, since the Eagles, Giants and Patriots are relieving pretty much the same days over and over just like in the famed movie. But that is working much better for the two Super Bowl teams than for the Eagles.Also published on:
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76ers to Finally Test Themselves Against Bulls, Heat: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers' stretch of seven straight killer games started fairly easily against the collapsing Magic. But the Sixers' next two opponents are not falling apart, as the Bulls and Heat themselves are arriving to show how far the Sixers have really come.Also published on:
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Flyers Find New Way to Lose to Jets: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers were shredded for 15 combined goals in two bizarre losses to the Jets months ago. So it made sense that the rematch ended in a 2-1 shootout with barely any offense - yet the Flyers were still unlucky anyway.Also published on:
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Patriots, Giants Records Meaning Little Before Super Bowl: A Fan's AnalysisOn paper, the 13-3 Patriots should be at least 7-10 point favorites over the 9-7 Giants in the Super Bowl. But thanks to the last month and the past history of these teams, the Giants are only slim underdogs and many think they should be favored anyway.Also published on:
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Castillo Latest Eagle to Get One Last Chance: A Fan's OutlookAfter the first 12 games of 2011, most Eagles fans wanted a complete house cleaning, starting with defensive head Juan Castillo. But after Jeffrey Lurie let Andy Reid slide for 2011, it was inevitable that Castillo would get one last chance in 2012 too.Also published on:
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Flyers Start Second Half Against Troublesome Jets: A Fan's PreviewThe Flyers start the second half of the season against a team that gave them their two most puzzling losses of the first half. The Jets lit up the Flyers twice a few months ago, and now the hope is that time has healed those early wounds.Also published on:
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76ers Win Very Ugly Over Magic to Start Killer Stretch: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers' days of blowing out poor opponents after halftime were supposed to be over, yet they blew past the slumping Magic in the third quarter anyway. However, the exclamation point landed flat as the Sixers only pulled out a 74-69 victory.Also published on:
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Patriots-Giants Super Bowl Rematch to Be Best One Ever?: A Fan's AnalysisThe Patriots and Giants are the fifth pair of teams to meet in the Super Bowl for the second time. Will they match the rematches that the Steelers-Cowboys and the 49ers-Bengals had, or be more like the Cowboys-Bills?Also published on:
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Eagles to Avoid Big Moves This Offseason?: A Fan's OutlookA Philadelphia Daily News column suggested that the Eagles should try to sign Peyton Manning when he's released. However, after most of the Eagles' big free agent signings last year failed, they might be less willing to shake things up this offseason.Also published on:
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Eagles Have Mere Cameo in 2012 Pro Bowl: A Fan's RecapThe Eagles had a small impact on the Pro Bowl roster as only three Birds were selected. Fittingly, those three Eagles had little to do, as LeSean McCoy had two carries and one fumble while Jason Babin only had one tackle.Also published on:
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76ers Embark on Seven Revealing Games: A Fan's AnalysisThe 76ers' next seven games against elite opponents will seem to determine if they are for real or not. But there is room for success, as the Magic, Lakers, Spurs, Hawks and Clippers are beatable, while one win over the Bulls or Heat would be even bigger.Also published on:
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76ers Start Elite Stretch Against Struggling Magic: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers are facing seven straight elite opponents - or at least teams over .500 - in the next two weeks. Yet the Sixers may have gotten another scheduling break by facing the Magic right after they had an utterly horrible week.Also published on:
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Can Gronkowski Make Super Comeback like Owens Did?: A Fan's OutlookThe Patriots are hoping that star tight end Rob Gronkowski can overcome an ankle injury to lead them to a title. After all, the last time they won a Super Bowl, Terrell Owens overcame a worse ankle injury and almost led the Eagles over the Pats anyway.Also published on:
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Crosby Still NHL's Biggest Post All-Star Break Issue: A Fan's AnalysisAs the NHL's second half nears, the biggest question mark by far is the status of Sidney Crosby, as his return or continued absence can swing the entire Eastern Conference. As such, news that he was recovering from a neck injury as well didn't help.Also published on:
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Knicks Continue Their Self-Destruction with Poor Weekend: A Fan's OutlookThe Knicks were supposed to have the best chance to overtake the Celtics in the Atlantic Division. Yet while the 76ers sit comfortably in first, the Knicks have sunk to fourth place as two more weekend losses could bring them even closer to imploding.Also published on:
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76ers Close Preseason with Another Blowout Over Pistons: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers began their run to first place with a dominant win over the Pistons in their home opener three weeks ago. Now as the biggest stretch of the year nears, the Sixers closed the warmup part of their schedule with another blowout of Detroit at home.Also published on:
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NFL Offseason Nears with No Meaningful Football This Sunday: A Fan's TakeThis is the first Sunday and first weekend in a long time without any football to watch that means anything - and the Pro Bowl doesn't count. Soon there will be no football on Sundays for many more weeks, with next Sunday's Super Bowl as the last hurrah.Also published on:
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Phillies Officially Say Goodbye to Oswalt, Lidge: A Fan's OutlookThe Phillies officially lost Brad Lidge when he became the latest Philadelphia star to join the Nationals. Now Roy Oswalt seems ready to leave as well, as he is allegedly close to signing with the Cardinals months after they knocked him out in the NLDS.Also published on:
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Flyers, Rangers to Keep Overachieving After All-Star Break?: A Fan's AnalysisThe Rangers and Flyers have defied expectations to climb on top of the Atlantic Division at the All-Star break. But will the Flyers' injuries and goalie questions catch up to them in the second half, and will the Rangers finally drop off a bit as well?Also published on:
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76ers Easily Avoid First Losing Streak of 2012 Again: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers haven't lost two games in a row all season, which is another gift from facing an easy schedule. So after losing to the Nets, losing to the 3-16 Bobcats would have been even more inexcusable, yet there was never a chance of that happening.Also published on:
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Patriots Go from Super Bowl Favorites to Underdogs in a Week: A Fan's TakeAfter the divisional playoffs, the Patriots were considered unbeatable and likely to slaughter the 13-4 Ravens. But after they almost lost the AFC title game, the Patriots are barely favored to beat the 12-7 Giants and are almost an underdog now.Also published on:
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Joe Paterno Memorial Service Sadly Highlighted by Knight's Defense: A Fan's TakeSomeone was bound to excuse Joe Paterno for the Jerry Sandusky scandal during his memorial service, and attack Penn State more for firing him. The only surprising part was that it didn't come from a alumnus, but from Nike's own Phil Knight.Also published on:
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Celtics Get Second Much Needed Boost Over Magic: A Fan's RecapThe Celtics were imploding not long ago while the 76ers were running away with the Atlantic Division. But destroying the Magic on Monday and pulling off a 27-point comeback win in Orlando last night could be the double whammy the Celtics needed.Also published on:
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76ers Need to Throttle Bottom Feeders Again This Weekend: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers finally fell to an inferior opponent in the Nets on Wednesday, but have two even worse teams to face in the Bobcats and Pistons this weekend. If the Sixers struggle in those games before a killer stretch starts, there will be cause for concern.Also published on:
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Eli Manning Still Has to Share Super Spotlight with Peyton: A Fan's AnalysisThe last month has been the greatest stretch in Eli Manning's career as he heads for his second Super Bowl. But Peyton is still the big story in the family, as Eli nears surpassing his brother at the same time that his career with the Colts nears an end.Also published on:
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Paterno's Lack of a Broken Heart Can Send Message to Mourners: A Fan's OutlookIt has been easy for Joe Paterno's passionate, somewhat bitter supporters to argue that being fired killed him. But with reports that Paterno was in good spirits and wasn't bitter over how it ended, it can teach his followers how to properly move forward.Also published on:
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Flyers Hope to Do Better This Year After All-Star Break: A Fan's TakeAt this time last year, the Flyers had the NHL's best record going into the All-Star Break, but they couldn't sustain the pace in the second half. The hope is that a tougher first half this year will make them stronger in the second half this time around.Also published on:
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76ers Finally Fall Against an Inferior Opponent: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers have never had a problem with beating poor teams, or with winning without a superstar. Yet the Nets finally made it difficult for the Sixers, as Deron Williams was able to carry New Jersey to an overtime win in Philadelphia.Also published on:
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Colts, Manning Casting Their Shadow Over Super Bowl: A Fan's OutlookWhile the Giants and Patriots are the two Super Bowl teams, the 2-14 Colts are a big Super Sunday talking point thanks to hosting the game, their current overhaul, their big decision on Peyton Manning and Manning's deep ties to the Super Bowl opponents.Also published on:
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Phillies Benefit from Having Another Superstar Leave NL: A Fan's AnalysisThe Phillies' road through the National League got clear when Albert Pujols didn't join Miami and left St. Louis and the NL as a whole. Now they have gotten another break when Prince Fielder left the Brewers and the NL as well to go to Detroit.Also published on:
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Nets Failing to Win and Add More Superstars: A Fan's OutlookThe 76ers have proven that it's possible to win without having one or two superstars - for now. Meanwhile, the Nets have tried to land stars for months, but it hasn't gotten them wins and they could soon have nothing if they don't land Dwight Howard.Also published on:
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NBA Eastern Conference Once More Inferior to West: A Fan's AnalysisThe NBA's shortened season has created chaos, but some things never change - like the Western Conference having a much better collection of teams than the East. Once more, most of the East is under .500, although the Sixers have left that group so far.Also published on:
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Flyers End First Half with Rare Shootout Win: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers closed the first half of the season with a rare achievement, as they salvaged a shootout win over the Panthers. They couldn't do that against the Bruins two nights earlier, yet Sergei Bobrovsky and Claude Giroux made the difference this time.Also published on:
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Eagles Hope Vick Can Improve like Manning: A Fan's TakeMichael Vick and Eli Manning have been annoyingly inconsistent for a long time. However, Manning finally got himself straightened out and is on the brink of a second Super Bowl, while the Eagles hope Vick can be that good enough to get a first next year.Also published on:
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Capitals Continue to Be Less Resilient Than Penguins: A Fan's OutlookThe Penguins, Capitals and their superstars once towered over the East, yet they've all been knocked down a peg. But the Penguins still have a pulse without Sidney Crosby, while the Capitals remain stuck and now won't have Alex Ovechkin for three games.Also published on:
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76ers Barely Break a Sweat Over Wizards: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers had a rough time facing the Heat on Saturday, so it was a perfect time for them to beat up on the Wizards again. They wasted no time doing just that, as the Sixers went up by 30 points at the half and could basically sleep the rest of the way.Also published on:
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Giants Keep Winning like Eagles Never Could: A Fan's PerspectiveIt is easy for the Eagles to think they would be in the Super Bowl instead of the Giants if they won the NFC East. However, it is very hard to imagine the Eagles winning in the playoffs the way that the Giants did.Also published on:
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Patriots-Giants Super Bowl Not Just Rematch of 2008: A Fan's TakeAlthough the 2008 Super Bowl is the past Patriots-Giants game being remembered the most right now, the 2012 Super Bowl is also a rematch from earlier this season. The Patriots would do better to remember that, since it was their last loss of this year.Also published on:
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Flyers Still Short of Being on Bruins' Level: A Fan's RecapFor the second straight game against the Bruins, the Flyers gave up six goals - although they had five this time and made the Bruins score their sixth on a shootout victory. Nevertheless, the Flyers proved they still haven't caught up to the champions.Also published on:
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Memories of Paterno Even Harder to Sort Out After Death: A Fan's TakeProperly recollecting and reacting to Joe Paterno was hard after his firing - a task which many at Penn State have failed at. Now after his death, remembering him and reconciling what he did and didn't do about Jerry Sandusky is that much more harder.Also published on:
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Patriots' Road to 2012 Super Bowl Gets One More Break: A Fan's RecapThe Patriots have gotten more breaks than usual this year, thanks to an easy schedule, a weaker AFC and Tom Brady. Their latest gift came when the Ravens went from potentially winning the AFC title game to giving it away to the Patriots in just a minute.Also published on:
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Giants Survive NFC Championship Game War of Attrition: A Fan's RecapThe Giants' latest miracle run to the Super Bowl was relatively easy until the NFC title game. To beat the 49ers, the Giants had to go through a true endurance test before winning in overtime just like they did four years ago in Green Bay.Also published on:
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Joe Paterno Death Watch Furthers Unending Tragedy at Penn State: A Fan's OutlookEvery time that things can't seem to get any worse at Penn State, something even more horrific happens to prove it wrong. Now the declining health of Joe Paterno and the fears that he is near death have taken it to even worse extremes.Also published on:
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Flyers Both Win, Lose Against Devils: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers really needed a win over the Devils, and they got just that in a decisive 4-1 victory. But once again, injuries derailed their relief, as Jaromir Jagr got taken out again and Danny Briere officially became the latest Flyer with a concussion.Also published on:
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76ers Still Unable to Jump Over Heat: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers hit a wall when they couldn't quite get past the Heat in the playoffs last year. Facing them last night was supposed to show how far they had come, but the Sixers took a step back when the Heat pulled away by 21 points.Also published on:
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Patriots-Giants Rematch, Harbaugh Bowl Prefered Super Bowl Pairings: A Fan's AnalysisGoing into the conference championship games, there are four potential Super Bowl pairings left. Two of them are much more likely to get hyped up, as the Patriots and Giants are on a potential collision course again - as are the Harbaugh brothers.Also published on:
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Manning Due for a Fall in NFC Championship Game?: A Fan's OutlookEli Manning is now being recognized as one of the NFL's best quarterbacks at last, but is he due to get brought down to Earth? His brother is a cautionary tale, as he was built up as an immortal before Super Bowl XLIV and nothing went right for him since.Also published on:
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Flyers Need to Wake Up Again This Weekend: A Fan's PreviewThe Flyers got throttled by the Islanders almost out of nowhere two days ago, but such a loss cannot linger this weekend - not with a visit to the surging Devils today and a rematch with the Bruins coming tomorrow.Also published on:
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76ers, Heat Are Still Works in Progress: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers and Heat last met at the end of the first round of last year's playoffs, and both come into their rematch tonight well over .500. However, both the Sixers and Heat are a long way from proving they are for real - albeit to different degrees.Also published on:
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76ers Have Big Second Half Awakening Over Hawks: A Fan's RecapThe Sixers have dominated opponents and blown them out in the second half almost all year. But doing so against the 11-4 Atlanta Hawks and turning an eight point halftime deficit into a 14 point win is something else altogether.Also published on:
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49ers Still Being Dismissed Against Giants: A Fan's OutlookEven after the 49ers upset the New Orleans Saints and got to host the NFC championship game, the Giants are still the popular pick to reach the Super Bowl. But the 49ers have been dismissed all season and it has worked for them so far.Also published on:
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Eagles Back to Square One with Spagnuolo Off the Market: A Fan's TakeThe Eagles were expected to make a run at former Philadelphia coach Steve Spagnuolo once they dumped Juan Castillo. But with the Saints rumored to have gotten him instead, the Eagles may once again have to settle for keeping their same old coach.Also published on:
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76ers Start Most Important Two-Game Stretch This Season: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers lost a chance at a statement win over the Nuggets, but they don't have time or an easy future opponent to help them out. Now they have two chances in just over 24 hours to get a statement win over a winning team, starting with the Hawks tonight.Also published on:
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Flyers Follow Dominant Win with Humilating Loss to Islanders: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers came up big against the Wild and looked set to follow it up with yet another easy win over the Islanders. But instead, the Islanders gave them perhaps their most embarassing loss of the year in a 4-1 victory.Also published on:
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Jets Forfeit New York Back to Giants: A Fan's AnalysisThe Giants had always ruled New York, but it looked like the Jets had a real shot to run the Big Apple in the past two seasons. Yet in this last month, the Giants have resumed control and the Jets look excessively ill-equipped to take it back.Also published on:
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Coughlin Saves His Job Much Better Than Reid: A Fan's OutlookWhen Andy Reid has to save his job, he gets the Eagles' winning streaks that come much too late or doesn't take them to the Super Bowl. But when Tom Coughlin's back is against the wall, he's delivered a championship and could have another one forthcoming.Also published on:
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Celtics Can't Even Celebrate Ending Losing Streak: A Fan's AnalysisThe Celtics finally got a break by blowing out the Raptors and ending their five-game losing streak. But even that went badly for the struggling Celtics, given how Rajon Rondo hurt his wrist and Danny Ainge fueled trade rumors around the Big Three.Also published on:
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76ers Fall Just Short in First Real Test Against Nuggets: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers actually had to rally from a deficit against a winning team last night. Although the Sixers did come back to force overtime against the Nuggets, Andre Miller and some missed chances cost Philadelphia a statement victory.Also published on:
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Can Giants Keep Winning Without Being Big Underdogs?: A Fan's OutlookThe Giants are experts at pulling off playoff upsets - but now, an NFC and Super Bowl title wouldn't be a massive upset anymore. As such, now that New York isn't shocking the world as much, can it still keep winning with a bulls-eye on its back?Also published on:
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Patriots' Road Keeps Clearing Up for a Fourth Ring: A Fan's TakeThe Patriots have given up chances for at least two-three more championships since winning their last one in 2005. But as the AFC and NFC keeps clearing up for the Patriots to steamroll through, they are running out of excuses this postseason.Also published on:
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76ers Get Another Shot at a Winning Western Opponent: A Fan's PreviewWhile virtually all of the 76ers wins have been over sub .500 teams, two of their three losses have come against winning teams out West. But now they get a third shot at a plus .500 Western opponent when the Denver Nuggets visit.Also published on:
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Flyers Use Revived Offense to Blow Past Wild: A Fan's RecapWhile the goaltending situation has been a problem for the Flyers, they have enough offensive weapons in theory to make up for it. They had more than enough against the Wild, as red hot Sean Couturier, Scott Hartnell and more powered a 5-1 blowout.Also published on:
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Giants, 49ers Owe Success to Eagles' Offseason Mistakes: A Fan's AnalysisThe Giants and 49ers are on the brink of the Super Bowl in part because of Victor Cruz and David Akers. But they wouldn't have these key pieces if the Eagles didn't cut Akers and if they didn't make the Giants get Cruz to replace Steve Smith.Also published on:
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Giants Keep Cinderella Alive in NFL Playoffs: A Fan's TakeIt is now an NFL tradition for a lower seeded team to make a run to the Super Bowl, if not outright win it. But with home teams starting this postseason at 7-0, Cinderella was almost knocked off for once, until the Giants revived her and then some.Also published on:
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Flyers, Wild Meet After Weeks of Struggles: A Fan's PreviewA month ago, the Flyers were leading the Eastern Conference while the Minnesota Wild shockingly had the best record out West. The two have struggled ever since, although the Wild have been much worse going into tonight's visit to Philadelphia.Also published on:
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76ers Preserve Perfection at Home Over Bucks: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers have rarely seemed to have a home court advantage given their poor attendance. But the Sixers are now 6-0 in Philadelphia anyway, getting yet another double digit win at home with a 94-82 triumph over the Bucks.Also published on:
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Giants Keep Up New York Tradition of Playoff Upsets: A Fan's AnalysisThe Giants stunned experts by reaching the NFC title game, but historically, it isn't a shock at all. For the fourth time in the last five years, a New York team has come from nowhere to make the NFL final four - though only the Giants have gotten deeper.Also published on:
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NFC Outdoes AFC in Playoff Drama: A Fan's OutlookDivisional playoff weekend was dominated by the NFC, as the 49ers and Giants shocked the football world while the Patriots and Ravens won with far less drama. Now the NFC seems to have the advantage of having the most unpredictable title game as well.Also published on:
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Temple Slips Back into Inconsistency After Beating Duke: A Fan's AnalysisTemple was a little iffy at times in non-conference play before it made a massive statement in beating Duke. But since then, the Owls have returned to being shaky by going 1-2 in their opening stretch of Atlantic 10 games.Also published on:
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Paterno Protestors Are Only Hurting Penn State Further: A Fan's PerspectivePenn State took another step backwards when pro-Joe Paterno followers protested his firing in a series of town hall meetings. But as long as they remain ignorant to why he had to be fired, they are making Penn State less likely to climb out of its mess.Also published on:
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76ers Taking Advantage of Weak Schedule and Division: A Fan's TakeIt is one thing for the 76ers to take advantage of an easy schedule so far. But the Atlantic Division so far has been even easier, as the Sixers are the only team over .500 while the Knicks, Celtics, Raptors and Nets have stumbled out of the gate.Also published on:
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Giants, 49ers Prove Defense Still Has Place in NFC: A Fan's OutlookThe NFC was defined by video-game like scoring and yardage numbers from the Packers, Saints, Lions and more. And yet it was defense that made the difference in knocking both the Packers and Saints out this weekend while the Giants and 49ers moved on.Also published on:
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Giants Becoming Eerily like 2008 Champions After All: A Fan's AnalysisThe Giants were endlessly compared to the 2007-08 world champions since making the playoffs, which was easy to nitpick - but not after another playoff win in Green Bay, another impossible catch and another potential Super Bowl meeting with the Patriots.Also published on:
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Paterno Interview Shows His Time Passed Long Ago: A Fan's OutlookJoe Paterno finally told the Washington Post this weekend why he didn't do more to report Jerry Sandusky in 2002. In reading it, one can't help but wonder if a more modern coach would have had a better idea of what to do in Paterno's shoes.Also published on:
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Flyers Falter in Nashville in Bryzgalov's Return: A Fan's RecapAfter Sergei Bobrovsky carried the Flyers to two straight wins, Ilya Bryzgalov needed a win over the Predators to silence critics. But thanks to bad breaks and facing a better team and a goalie on a hot night, the Flyers couldn't bail Bryzgalov out.Also published on:
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76ers Put Wizards Away Earlier Than Usual: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers usually wait until the third quarter to make a massive run and put poor teams out of commission. But they lost patience with the Wizards early in Washington, using a 29-14 second quarter advantage to cruise the rest of the way.Also published on:
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49ers, Smith Further Validate Jim Harbaugh: A Fan's TakeNFL teams trying to hire new coaches can only pray to land the likes of Jim Harbaugh. But ther 49ers have him, and Harbaugh's stunning transformation of their defense and former bust Alex Smith paid off further in a last-second upset of the Saints.Also published on:
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'Bradymania' Still Alive and Well for Patriots in January: A Fan's RecapIt was starting to get hard to remember a time when Tom Brady and the Patriots dominated in January, given their last few playoff upset losses. But 'Tebowmania' and the Broncos were not strong enough to stop them from getting back into form this time.Also published on:
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Devils Starting to Creep Up on Flyers: A Fan's AnalysisThe Rangers and Penguins have been the Flyers' greatest concerns in the Atlantic Division. Yet the Devils have quietly gotten up to third while the Penguins have fallen apart, and are hoping to catch the Flyers before Philadelphia can catch the Rangers.Also published on:
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76ers Get Back to Basics Over Wizards: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers didn't blow out the Knicks in the second half on Jan. 11 or beat them period. But since the Sixers were facing the 1-9 Wizards next, they got back to their usual formula of early leads, second half blowouts and balancing scoring.Also published on:
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Patriots Have No Excuse to Lose Another Home Playoff Game: A Fan's PreviewThe story of the Broncos-Patriots showdown is supposedly Tim Tebow, but it is really about the Patriots and whether they can break their current playoff losing streak. But there is no excuse for them to lose a third straight opening playoff game at home.Also published on:
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Eagles Lose Out on Fisher as Potential Reid Replacement: A Fan's OutlookThere are many dream names that Eagles fans imagine as their new coach if/when Andy Reid finally leaves town. One of them was Jeff Fisher, yet he is now heading off to rebuild the Rams and try to finally get over his own Super Bowl hump in St. Louis.Also published on:
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The Rare Highlights of Penn State's 2011 Season: A Fan's RecapIt shouldn't be hard to pick highlights from a 9-4 season - but Penn State's 9-4 year in 2011 was unlike any other. But in between the scandals and the collapse of an entire era, there were a few good things left to remember.Also published on:
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Penn State's Last Win with Paterno Tainted Further by Sandusky: A Fan's OutlookWhen Penn State beat Illinois on Oct. 29, it was an historic win for Joe Paterno - then it was the last gasp before he and the school were shattered. To add further insult, it seems Jerry Sandusky was in the president's box a week before his arrest.Also published on:
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76ers Back to Facing Inferior Opponent in Wizards: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers have gotten most of their wins against losing teams, which made it more troubling that they lost to the plus .500 Knicks days ago. But they still have poor opponents to help them bounce back - like the 1-9 Wizards in a home-and-home.Also published on:
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Flyers Get Another Boost from Bobrovsky to Beat Islanders: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers begin the second half of the season with brand new questions at goaltender. Sergei Bobrovsky is making them a bit harder to answer by winning, as he came up big again for the second game in a row to lead the Flyers over the Islanders.Also published on:
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49ers Owe Much of Their Success to Eagles: A Fan's TakeThe 49ers were the surprise story of the NFC, while the Eagles were its big disappointment. But the 49ers wouldn't be where they are without the Eagles, given how the Eagles gift wrapped the win that turned them around - and gave them David Akers to boot.Also published on:
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Villanova Sees How Far it Has Fallen Against Syracuse: A Fan's RecapAlmost 365 days ago, Villanova defeated Syracuse at the Carrier Dome - and has really never gotten a break since then. Last season fell apart after that, and this season reached a new low when the Wildcats got blown out early by No. 1 Syracuse last night.Also published on:
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How Alabama and Penn State Were Linked in 2011: A Fan's OutlookAlabama and Penn State were on polar opposites of the college football world in 2011. But the two were deeply connected, due to their showdown on Sept 10, how their worlds were shattered on Nov. 5 and how Alabama's defense recalled the 1987 Nittany Lions.Also published on:
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76ers Get Taste of Their Own Medicine in New York: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers usually win by blowing opponents out in the second half - yet the Knicks ruined that by blowing them away at the start of the first half last night. As such, the Sixers didn't have enough to finish making up a rare second half deficit.Also published on:
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Sanchez, Jets Can Learn from Manning, Giants: A Fan's AnalysisMark Sanchez and Eli Manning have been under fire in New York for years. Yet Manning has survived for eight years, won one Super Bowl and still has a chance to get another - which Sanchez should learn from as his future with the Jets is endangered.Also published on:
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Rex Ryan on Verge of Losing Jets?: A Fan's TakeMark Sanchez is under fire from both New York and his own Jets teammates. Yet it is Rex Ryan who is really losing control of the Jets, as his own downfall in the last 12 months is just as dramatic and may put his own time in New York in danger soon.Also published on:
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Tide's BCS Title Game Defense on Par with 1987 Nittany Lions: A Fan's AnalysisAlabama put on a defensive showcase in the BCS title game that college football hasn't seen on such a big stage in a long time. In fact, the last time might have been 25 years ago when Penn State crushed Miami - which is a more upsetting irony now.Also published on:
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Flyers Take Advantage of Hurricanes Again: A Fan's RecapWhen the going gets tough, the Flyers can usually count on beating the Hurricanes to make them feel better. This time the Flyers took care of business in Carolina on the strength of two rookies and the triumphant return of Sergei Bobrovsky.Also published on:
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76ers Follow Their Usual Blowout Formula Over Kings: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers are starting to get a little dull in doing the same old thing over and over. But when that same old thing is second half blowouts and 25+ point victories over teams like the Sacramento Kings, it is harder to complain.Also published on:
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Giants, Packers Vastly Different from Four Years Ago: A Fan's OutlookThe Giants and Packers meet in the playoffs for the first time since New York's NFC title game upset in Green Bay four years ago. But the Packers weren't led by Aaron Rodgers back then, and the Giants weren't so Eli Manning-centric back then either.Also published on:
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76ers Get Most Impressive Win yet Over Pacers: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers didn't blow the Indiana Pacers out last night, as they only won by 10 points. But it was still a victory over a team with a winning record, in which the Sixers needed just one big spurt, the usual balanced attack and 50 percent shooting.Also published on:
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Steelers Latest Pennsylvania Team with Disappointing Finish: A Fan's TakePennsylvania usually has the Eagles, Steelers or both still alive by now. But the Eagles flamed out quickly while the Steelers took longer to disappoint - yet injuries and a poor game plan against Tim Tebow did Pittsburgh in earlier than expected too.Also published on:
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Eagles Make Themselves Look More Closed Off Than Penn State: A Fan's TakeThe Eagles are staying with the same old coach and approach for another year although fans keep clamoring for change and new blood. It looks even worse since even Penn State managed to find an new outside leader, in spite of objections from alumni.Also published on:
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BCS Championship Game Reversal of Fortune for Saban, Miles: A Fan's RecapWhen LSU and Alabama last met, Nick Saban looked foolish for his gambles while Les Miles looked like a genius. But in the rematch, Saban's game plan was met to perfection while Miles looked utterly foolish and conventional in the Tide's 21-0 shellacking.Also published on:
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BCS Title Game in Nearly No-Win Scenario: A Fan's PreviewGiven how the BCS title game is a rematch between SEC teams that held a 9-6 game two months ago - and how Oklahoma State, Stanford or Oregon may be more appealing LSU opponents than Alabama - the Tigers-Tide rematch will need to be a nail biter tonight.Also published on:
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76ers, Pacers to Test Each Other's Early Progress: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers and Pacers were the bottom seeded playoff teams in the East last year, and have gotten off to hot starts this year. But they have mostly done so against sub .500 teams, so their battle tonight stands to be more revealing.Also published on:
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Flyers Run Out of Last Minute Magic in Ottawa: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers needed last second goals to pull out two straight wins, including one over the Senators at home. But the Senators got their revenge in Ottawa, as the Flyers gave up four third period goals and two in the final minute to yield a 6-4 defeat.Also published on:
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Tebow, Roethlisberger Bail Out Wild Card Weekend: A Fan's AnalysisUntil the Broncos and Steelers played, wild card weekend was defined by three games that turned into undramatic blowouts in the second half. But Tim Tebow and Ben Roethlisberger injected some thrills before Tebow completed his latest miracle in overtime.Also published on:
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Old School Giants Return to Throttle Falcons: A Fan's RecapThe NFC East was too weak to knock off the Giants when it had the chance, and now the rest of the NFC may pay for it. The Giants hadn't been their old selves all year, but their old school selves returned to thump the Falcons on wild card Sunday.Also published on:
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Briere Gives Flyers Another Last Second Escape: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers needed a last second goal to escape the Blackhawks, and waited even longer to finish the Senators yesterday. With five seconds left before a shootout, Danny Briere capped a hat trick in the most dramatic way possible.Also published on:
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76ers Breeze Through in Second Half yet Again: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers are used to waiting around until they destroy opponents in the second half. This time it resulted in a 97-62 win over the Raptors, as another balanced Sixers attack and poor Toronto shooting made a seven point halftime lead steamroll quickly.Also published on:
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Ghosts of Playoff Past to Hang Over Giants, Falcons?: A Fan's PreviewThe Giants are resurrecting memories of their 2008 Super Bowl run before the 2012 playoff run even starts, while the Falcons are haunted by the memories of playoff losses in 2009 and 2011. But can history really repeat itself?Also published on:
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Saints, Brees, Payton Envy of Eagles, NFC: A Fan's TakeOnce again, the Saints ran up yards and points, converted big fourth downs and had all of their gambles pay off in beating the Lions on wild card Saturday. And once again, the likes of the Eagles and most of the NFC have to wish they could do all that.Also published on:
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Penn State Looks for Greater Offense in Hiring O'Brien: A Fan's TakeMany are wondering why Penn State is introducing Bill O'Brien as its new head coach today. Other than his outsider status, O'Brien has the advantage of being the Patriots offensive coordinator and joining a team that badly needs to score more points.Also published on:
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Flyers to Breathe Easier in Home-And-Home with Senators?: A Fan's PreviewThe Flyers are coming off the Winter Classic and three straight games against the NHL's elite. This makes the prospect of facing the Senators in a home-and-home easier to deal with, although the Flyers have lost the wiggle room to take teams lightly.Also published on:
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76ers Show Off Blowout Ways at Home Over Pistons: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers got two blowout wins on the road in their opening trip, and showed off those abilities right on cue in the home opener. After building a lead through the first three quarters, the Sixers dropped the hammer in the fourth for a 96-73 thumping.Also published on:
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Guide to Day 1 of NFL Playoffs for Eagles Fans: A Fan's PreviewThe first two NFL playoff games will be a worse reminder of how the Eagles missed out. The Bengals-Texans game shows how teams far less hot than the Eagles slid in, while the Lions-Saints showdown reminds the Birds how far they have to go in the NFC.Also published on:
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Penn State Alumni Wrongly Reject O'Brien for Being an Outsider: A Fan's TakeThe reported hiring of Bill O'Brien as the new Penn State head coach has made some alumni furious because O'Brien is an outsider. But prefering to stay closed off and stay with the same old people, even now, is part of the larger problem at Penn State.Also published on:
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76ers Now Get to Build on Promising Start at Home: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers got what they needed from their opening road trip with a 3-2 record. Now they get to build on it with a manageable schedule and many more home games ahead, starting with a home opener against the 2-4 Pistons.Also published on:
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Flyers Eventually Secure Big Win Over Blackhawks: A Fan's RecapThe Flyers needed a win over the Blackhawks to move on from the Winter Classic and start putting a rough stretch behind them. They got that with a 5-4 triumph, even though they needed a last-second goal to do it after coughing a late 4-2 lead.Also published on:
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Penn State Latest to Take Losing Gamble on Patriots Coach?: A Fan's AnalysisThe New England Patriots may once again have an assistant coach leave to take a head coaching position. But Charlie Weis and Romeo Crennel couldn't cut it on their own, and now Bill O'Brien heads for the ultimate no-win job at Penn State.Also published on:
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NFL Playoff Schedule More Enticing in NFC: A Fan's OutlookIn comparing the two NFL playoff fields and schedule, the AFC is dragged down by three underserving teams and three big favorites with weaknesses. Meanwhile in the NFC, there are several potential juicy matches and rematches on the horizon.Also published on:
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Flyers Hardly Get Post-Winter Classic Break in Facing Blackhawks: A Fan's PreviewAfter getting their hearts broken by the Rangers in the Winter Classic and suffering a fifth loss in seven games, the Flyers could use a break in their return to the Wells Fargo Center. But the Chicago Blackhawks are coming back to town instead.Also published on:
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76ers Clinch Winning Road Trip with Impressive Rally: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers started their road trip by going back and forth between close losses and blowout wins. But the Sixers broke the pattern in New Orleans by rallying from first and third quarter deficits to pull out a win and a 3-2 opening record.Also published on:
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Temple Comes Up with Landmark Upset Over Duke: A Fan's RecapThe Temple Owls have taken their share of steps up under Fran Dunphy over the years. However, beating the Duke Blue Devils is another level, especially since the Owls hadn't done it since 1996 - at least until their 78-73 upset in Philly last night.Also published on:
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Can Giants Really Be Trusted to Make Super Bowl Run?: A Fan's AnalysisThe Giants are now being talked about as a potential Super Bowl sleeper, in spite of how they struggled to win the worst division in football. They have made that kind of run before, of course, yet the 2011 Giants are not as consistent as the 2007 champs.Also published on:
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Eagles Thankfully Have More Stability Than Jets: A Fan's TakeFor all of the mistakes Andy Reid and the Eagles made this season, at least they didn't lose as much control as the Jets did. New York also went 8-8 and missed the playoffs, yet Rex Ryan had far less control over his underachievers than Reid did.Also published on:
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Sixers Look to Break Early Pattern in Road Trip Finale: A Fan's PreviewThe Sixers have gone back and forth between close losses and blowout wins in their opening road trip. By that pattern, they are due for a close loss to New Orleans and a 2-3 final mark on the trip, but that is obviously not acceptable.Also published on:
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Michigan Salvages Big Ten from Even Worse Bowl Record: A Fan's TakeThe Big Ten went winless in post-New Years bowl games in 2011, and started out 0-4 in 2012 thanks in part to Penn State. But it took a Michigan State comeback in the Outback Bowl and a lucky Michigan win in the Sugar Bowl to salvage some dignity.Also published on:
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Flyers Blow Another Sure Winter Classic Win: A Fan's OutlookFor the second time in three years, the Flyers held what looked to be a safe lead in the Winter Classic and then gave it away. Things got hard for the Flyers after they blew the 2010 Classic in Boston, and the 2012 team can't afford to meet the same fate.Also published on:
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Eagles, Jets Have Similar Seasons, Vastly Different Endings: A Fan's AnalysisThe Eagles and Jets were both expected to make Super Bowl runs, and both finished with humilating 8-8 records instead. But despite being equally disappointing, the Eagles were able to feel much better at finishing 8-8 than the Jets were.Also published on:
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Eagles, Chargers Give Reid, Turner yet Another Chance: A Fan's TakeThe Eagles and Chargers have wasted years falling short of championships, and a few more years in starting slow and finishing hot when it is too late. But Andy Reid and Norv Turner still got yet another reprieve after big finishes that weren't enough.Also published on:
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Penn State Further Exposed by Houston in TicketCity Bowl: A Fan's RecapGetting slaughtered by Wisconsin with a division title on the line was enough to expose Penn State. Yet Houston piled it on in the TicketCity Bowl, as the Nittany Lions defense and poor quarterbacking could not overcome another powerful offense.Also published on:
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Rangers, Lundqvist Stonewall Flyers Once More in Winter Classic: A Fan's RecapThe Winter Classic was different from past Flyers-Rangers games this year, as it was outdoors and the Flyers took a lead. But New York just found one more way to overtake Philadelphia - and Henrik Lundqvist found one more way to handcuff the Flyers.Also published on:
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Eagles Loss to Giants in Week 3 Doomed Season: A Fan's AnalysisThe Eagles memorably blew a lot of big leads this season that cost them a playoff berth. But the loss that really ended the season was way back in Week 3, when the Giants came back to beat the Eagles in a win that made all the difference in the NFC East.Also published on:
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Final NFL Power Rankings After Week 17: A Fan's OutlookThe NFL power rankings will no longer be necessary now that the regular season is over. That is a shame for the Eagles, who ended up ranked higher than they have been for months at the end, even though they were nowhere near the top 6.Also published on:
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Penn State Pedigree Enough to Overcome Houston?: A Fan's PreviewIf any other 9-3 team that has quarterback problems was facing the 12-1 Houston Cougars and Case Keenum in the TicketCity Bowl, they would be a heavy underdog. But because this particular 9-3 team is Penn State, it is still considered a good bet.Also published on:
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2012 Winter Classic Spawning New Flyers Goalie Controversy: A Fan's PreviewMost figured that the Flyers were finally finished with goaltending controversies when Ilya Bryzgalov was signed. But just three months in, the latest goalie controversy may be at hand now that Sergei Bobrovsky is starting the Winter Classic instead.Also published on:
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Giants Prove to Be Only Deserving NFC East Champion: A Fan's TakeIt can be argued that no one deserved to win the NFC East this season. But as the Giants proved in jumping all over the Cowboys and holding them off in the end - just like in the season as a whole - New York was the only team that came close.Also published on:
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Eagles' Finale Victory Reflects Season as a Whole: A Fan's RecapThe Eagles didn't do enough to distinguish themselves from the Redskins in the first three quarters of their last game. But three late touchdowns made their 34-10 win look better than it did much of the way - a familar refrain for the 2011 Eagles.Also published on:
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Winter Classic Weather Less Ideal Over the Years: A Fan's TakePhiladelphia could have relatively mild weather tomorrow, which would make the Winter Classic a bit more problematic. But ever since that iconic snowstorm in Buffalo at the first Winter Classic, weather has sadly been getting better at NHL outdoor games.Also published on:
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76ers Follow Close Loss with Blowout Win Again: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers started the year with a close loss in Portland and a blowout over Phoenix. The pattern repeated to end the week, as the Sixers followed a tough loss to the Jazz with an even bigger blowout over the Warriors.Also published on:
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NFL Playoff Picture a Mixed Bag of Suspense in Week 17: A Fan's OutlookThe biggest suspense left in the NFL playoff picture involves who will win the two worst divisions in football. But the more meaingful suspense involves seeding, as the Ravens, Steelers, Saints, 49ers and Lions really need to avoid getting lower seeds.Also published on:
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Jets Need a 2008 Eagles-Style Miracle: A Fan's OutlookThe Jets need five different things to go their way to actually make the playoffs in Week 17. But the Eagles proved in 2008 that a unlikely series of breaks can happen to get a team to the playoffs - and then nearly to the Super BowlAlso published on:
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Penn State Gets Another Shot Against Powerful Offense: A Fan's OutlookPenn State has rode its defense all season - but when it has faced explosive offenses, the formula hasn't worked as well. It failed miserably against Wisconsin, and now the Nittany Lions must face the even more explosive Houston Cougars as a result.Also published on:
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Winter Classic Intertwined with State of Pennsylvania: A Fan's AnalysisThe Winter Classic has become a massive event in just five years. But only one of them has featured two teams outside of Pennsylvania, since the Flyers and Penguins are the only teams to play in two Winter Classics so far.Also published on:
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76ers Unable to Put Away Jazz: A Fan's RecapThe 76ers were looking good early against the winless Jazz, yet they forfeited a 13-point lead in the second quarter and an early second half lead as well. As such, the Jazz hung around long enough to get a win and put the Sixers' road trip in jeopardy.Also published on:
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Coughlin Only NFC East Coach Still Playing for His Job: A Fan's OutlookEvery NFC East coach has had his job in some danger this year. But since Andy Reid and Mike Shanahan appear safe, and Jerry Jones gave Jason Garrett another vote of confidence, Tom Coughlin is just left in the hot seat before the NFC East title game.Also published on:
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Eagles-Redskins Finale Rare Meaningless Week 17 Game: A Fan's TakeVirtually every game in Week 17 will have some impact on the playoffs or the race for the No. 1 draft pick. However, the Eagles-Redskins finale is the rare game that means absolutely nothing to both teams in action.Also published on:
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76ers Aim for First Winning Record of 2011 Against Jazz: A Fan's PreviewThe 76ers bounced back from an opening game loss and then some against the Suns. Now they look for their first winning record of 2011 - and seem to have gotten a break in facing a Jazz team coming off two opening blowout losses.Also published on:
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Flyers, Former Penguins Stage Big Return in Pittsburgh: A Fan's RecapThe return of Jaromir Jagr and Max Talbot to Pittsburgh meant less to the Flyers than getting a huge win to stop their recent bleeding. Yet thanks in part to goals from both former Penguins, the Flyers staged a big return of their own in a 4-2 victory.Also published on:
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Shanahan, Reid Likely to Survive Disappointing 2011: A Fan's OutlookAndy Reid seems to have bought himself one more chance with the Eagles this December. Meanwhile, Mike Shanahan is also confident that he will coach the Redskins again after another last place season, although 2012 could make or break both coaches.Also published on:
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Smith Latest Dallas Legend to Question Cowboys: A Fan's OutlookJerry Jones declared he was scared of the Eagles last week, and it didn't motivate the Cowboys to prove him wrong. Now Emmitt Smith is the latest Dallas legend to question the current Cowboys' abilities before the NFC East title game.Also published on:
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Munchak Latest to Run from Penn State Job: A Fan's TakePenn State has to scrape the bottom of the barrel for anyone interested in its head coaching job. Therefore, rumors of Penn State alumnus and Tennessee Titans rookie head coach Mike Munchak being the top candidate were destined to be false,Also published on:
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76ers Burn Suns in Blowout Victory: A Fan's RecapAfter a disappointing opening night loss in Portland, the Sixers needed a bounce back win to get back on the right foot. Not only did they get that in Phoenix, they got a 14 point halftime lead and a 19-0 run after that to wrap up a blowout victory.Also published on:
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Penguins Playing Better Shorthanded Than Flyers Again: A Fan's OutlookThe Flyers and Penguins have played without their biggest stars a lot this season. Right now, it looks like the Flyers are starting to crumble without Chris Pronger, yet the Penguins are once again managing to succeed without Sidney Crosby.Also published on:
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Cowboys, Giants to Reverse Momentum yet Again?: A Fan's TakeOn any given week in the NFC East, one team seizes control while the other collapses, then their roles reverse the next week. Following a big Week 16 for the Giants and an awful one for the Cowboys, it just makes Dallas likely to win it all in Week 17.Also published on:
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2011 Jets Collapse Nearly as Bad as 2008: A Fan's AnalysisThe Rex Ryan/Mark Sanchez era in New York has reached its low point with the Jets' late season collapse. Yet that era was only made possible because the 2008 Jets tumbled even worse and forced Eric Mangini and Brett Favre out.Also published on:
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Penn State Scandal Officially Hangs Over Year in Sports: A Fan's AnalysisAs we all look back on the last year in sports, it is not being defined by any action on a field. Inevitably, Penn State and Jerry Sandusky will wind up as the symbols of sports in 2011 for all the wrong reasons.Also published on: