Fang's Bites

Our Tuesday Linkage

Let’s do some linkage for you on this Tuesday.

One sad piece of news for me at least, is the departure of David Scott of Boston Sports Media Watch. Lately, he’s been working on a book with Kentucky coach John Calipari so his blogging has been sparse in recent weeks, but when he was at his peak, David was constantly a fun read. He always had something to say about Boston sports media and I looked forward to his Friday posts. Now, David has bigger fish to fry and he’s taking the opportunity to leave while the iron is hot. I’ll definitely miss David and I hope to have him here when the book with Calipari is published. So David writes his farewell to his loyal readers and tells us what he was hoping to accomplish with his blog.

I hope to have an announcement on whom will take David’s place at BSMW down the road.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell wonders if steroids user Sammy Sosa altered his Cubs jersey to make his arms look bigger.

Joe Favorito likes one particular Minor League Baseball promotion that’s geared just for the ladies.

The great Richard Sandomir of the New York Times says viewers could tell what golfers NBC was rooting for during its U.S. Open coverage.

Newsday’s Neil Best also takes a look at NBC’s coverage of the Open.

Bob Raissman of the New York Daily News feels Michael Kay took long enough to get a point right on YES.

From the Albany Times Union, Pete Dougherty writes that the ratings for the final round of the U.S. Open on Monday were off by 50% from last year’s Monday playoff.

Keith Groller looks forward to tonight’s HBO Real Sports interview with Jim Brown and Bill Russell. Keith talks with a TV anchor competitor of Gary Papa about their friendly rivalry.

John Gonzalez of the Philadelphia Inquirer is amazed that Dallas Mavs owner Mark Cuban is actually beating up on bloggers.

Tim Lemke of the Washington Times talks to the great Maury Brown from the Biz of Baseball. You can also check out their conversation at the Biz of Baseball.

Jim Williams from the Washington Examiner says there are plenty of ways to catch Wimbledon online if you’re stuck at work while the matches are on.

Dan Steinberg of the Washington Post’s DC Sports Bog has Tony Kornheiser talking about his former employer, the Post, Monday Night Football, his radio future and anything else TK could think of during a 17 minute radio interview today.

Justin Anderson of the West Virginia Record, a legal journal, writes about lawyer Mike Florio making the big time with his Pro Football Talk and its partnership with NBC Sports.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has information from ESPN analysts Fran Fraschilla and Jay Bilas about whom the Bucks may or may not pick in the NBA Draft on Thursday.

Lorene Yue of Crain’s Chicago Business says the co-founder of the now-defunct Windy City internet sports station has been arrested.

Ameet Sachdev, Becky Yerak and Gary Marx of the Chicago Tribune have more details about the arrest. The three also write a story about the rise and fall of David Hernandez.

Phil Rosenthal of the Tribune has an interview transcript involving Mike North and the co-founder of the internet station.

Ed Sherman from Crain’s has Mike North’s statements on the co-founder’s arrest. Ed writes about one local sports anchor losing his job. Ed says one long-time sports radio personality returns to his former shift.

Mark Warner of the Duluth (MN) News Tribune writes that Fox Sports North has chosen next year’s site for Hockey Day in Minnesota.

The Chattanoogan reports that Comcast is making MLB Network available in that part of the Volunteer State.

Dave Walker of the New Orleans Times-Picayune looks at a new Golf Channel show that makes its formal premiere tonight.

Barry Horn from the Dallas Morning News says one local sports radio station is making a lineup change. Barry reviews last night’s “4th and Long” episode.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News previews tonight’s HBO Real Sports episode.

I have a feeling Chris Zelkovich of the Toronto Star hates American networks because he goes after Al Roker on NBC and Chris Berman on ESPN. Chris also looks at the Canadian TV ratings for the sporting weekend. Chris writes about an NHL broadcasting executive who’s leaving his post.

Bruce Dowbiggin from the Toronto Globe and Mail feels NBC had a subpar U.S. Open telecast.

Mimi Turner of the Hollywood Reporter writes about ESPN gaining rights to the English Premier League.

Kate Holton of Reuters says ESPN is not just stopping at the EPL for programming in the UK.

Aaron O. Patrick of the Wall Street Journal writes that the EPL is going to give ESPN a big foothold in the UK.

One other ESPN soccer move. Ronald Blum of the AP writes that ESPN has signed an agreement with Gol TV to share rights of Spain’s La Liga. Those games will be seen the U.S.

BBC News says Setanta Sports has ceased operation in the UK.

In a related note, BBC reports that the FA Cup now has to find a new rightsholder in the wake of Setanta’s collapse.

EPL Talk wonders what will happen to Setanta Sports’ profitable US operation.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News says the Big Ten Network will gain some viewers in New York thanks to a carriage deal with Cablevision.

Scott Greczkowski of Multichannel says DirecTV customers will get the full Wimbledon experience thanks to several channels dedicated to the outer courts as well as Centre Court.

The Sports Media Watch discusses the overnight ratings for the final round of the U.S. Open.

The Gamecocks on TV blog tells us about some more stations that have picked up ESPN Regional TV’s syndicated SEC package.

Steve Lepore of Puck The Media has some very valid suggestions for Versus in covering the NHL Draft.

Joe Haggerty of WEEI.com reports that the Flyers may take on the Bruins at Fenway for the next version of the outdoor Winter Classic.

And that, my friends will conclude the links for today. Press releases will be posted later tonight.

Tuesday’s Linkage

Time for me to give you links. Got a late start so let’s get cracking on links.

I do want to thank Peter Lukas of the Uni Watch blog for linking to my Peter Puck post yesterday. It brought me a lot of new traffic to Fang’s Bites and if you’re here due to Uni Watch, welcome aboard.

I forgot to link to Sports Business Journal stories yesterday so I’ll give you some links today.

Jon Show of the SBJ writes that LPGA Tournaments are trying to get details of the new deal wtih the Golf Channel.

Jon says NBC and Golf Digest are expanding their programming relationship.

John Ourand and Michael Smith say the ACC has brought in a consultant to help handle its media rights negotiations.

And Daniel Kaplan says the NFL still had former commissioner Paul Tagliabue on its payroll as of last year.

Newsday’s Neil Best has Tony Kornheiser’s sarcastic statements about taking drugs when he was a young and naive sportswriter. Neil says New York may have loved the Oscars, but the ratings still were not as high as the Super Bowl. Neil also did a live chat today.

The New York Daily News’ Bob Raissman writes that Mets manager Jerry Manuel has been making news during Spring Training.

Laura Nachman writes that a Philadelphia sportscaster will appear on Sirius XM’s Catholic channel to talk about being a bone marrow donor.

Ken McMillan of the Hudson Valley Times Herald-Record says baseball is back on TV.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell talks about Bo Jackson going into banking. Darren looks into attendance clauses that are written into certain contracts. Darren says Mickey Mantle’s infamous F-bomb ball is going on sale. Darren has found five sports teams that don’t market St. Patrick’s Day gear. Darren says the Yankees should find a way to use Phil Coke’s name to help market its deal with Coca Cola. Darren says Tiger Woods will have a different sponsor on his golf bag this week. And Darren tells us that Michael Phelps will speak at a corporate event today, but was asked not to show up at three other events.

Keith Groller of the Allentown (PA) Morning Call says Tiger Woods is back to save golf.

Ray Frager of the Baltimore Sun recaps an interview with former Raven Chris McAlister.

Roger van der Horst from the Raleigh (NC) News & Observer talks with the producer of HBO’s documentary on Duke-North Carolina. Roger has the ACC TV schedule this week.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News talks with Stars voice Ralph Strangis about the sad story of wrestler Verne Gagne. Barry says the MLB Network will air a documentary on Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton. Barry writes the Cowboys have still not resolved potential conflicts with its new flagship radio station.

Mel Bracht of the Daily Oklahoman says NFL Network will air a program on Deion Sanders’ tutoring of college players.

Ed Sherman of Crain’s Chicago Business says Tiger Woods is returning just in a nick of time for the PGA Tour.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News says the Sports Museuem of Los Angeles is closing for the winter.

John Ryan of the San Jose Mercury News reports that the Oakland A’s might not have 145 games on Comcast SportsNet California carried on DirecTV as the two companies are locked in what? If you guessed a money dispute, then you would be right.

Michael Malone of Broadcasting & Cable says ESPN is shedding more details on its Chicago-centric web site.

Mike Reynolds from Multichannel News says NHL Network will be offering a free preview next week.

The Sports Media Watch says the PGA Tour’s ratings went up just in time for Tiger’s return. The NHL’s ratings did go up slightly from last year. The SMW says NASCAR’s ratings fell on Sunday. SMW says TNT’s Charles Barkley will serve a ten day prison sentence in March that will force him to miss work. And the SMW notes the NBA on ABC drew decent ratings on Sunday.

The Big Lead says ESPN’s Bill Simmons is still whining about not being allowed to appear on non-ESPN affiliated radio stations.

Steve Lepore at Puck The Media notes the five best games that NBC has passed on during the the last three years.

The great Christopher Byrne of the Eye on Sports Media blog looks at ESPNU’s airing of the West Point Brigade Boxing Finals tonight.

And that’s going to do it.

Thursday’s Links

Let’s get cracking on linkage. I’m a bit late on starting this morning.

We start with Breaking News. Erin Andrews has won Playboy’s Sexiest Sportscaster for the second year in a row.

USA Today’s Michael Hiestand talks about Fox Sports airing cartoons of Digger the Gopher before this Sunday’s Daytona 500.

Bill Fleischman of the Philadlephia Daily News says NASCAR was brought into the national lexicon thanks to a fight in 1979 as viewers in the northeast watched during a blizzard.

Richard Sandomir of the New York Times says MLB and the NFL are insulated from financial harm as Sirius XM reorganizes under bankruptcy protection.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell says there’s now a Guitar Hero ad curse. Darren loves the new Ana Ivanovic ads.

Newsday’s Neil Best says Brett Favre may be retiring (allegedly), but the sales of his jersey continues. Neil writes that Favre’s Jets uniform is the number one selling NFL jersey through January. Neil jams a bunch of news and notes into one blog post. And Neil writes that Howard Stern successfully provoked WFAN’s Mike Francesa yesterday.

Bob Raissman of the New York Daily News says Favre was a bust in New York.

Rich Cimini of the Daily News has Jets owner Woody Johnson’s comments on the Favre situation during an interview on WFAN.

The Dallas Morning News’ Barry Horn is not pleased with TNT changing the famous H-O-R-S-E game to the letters of an insurance company. It appears Barry isn’t feeling enthusiastic about Fox’s Digger cartoon. Barry says Rangers studio analyst Mark McLemore will be on MLB Network today and tomorrow.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union says 16 New York Mets Spring Training games will be seen on SNY and WPIX.

John Kiesewetter of the Cincinnati Enquirer goes into the Reds Spring Training TV and radio schedule.

Ed Sherman of Crain’s Chicago Business has some more thoughts on the A-Rod mess. Ed writes that Sports Illustrated’s journalistic scoop on A-Rod was tempered with this week’s swinsuit issue.

John Ryan of the San Jose Mercury News reports the Oakland A’s are moving to a new cable TV home.

Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle says the A’s will have 147 games aired on Comcast SportsNet California.

Eric Young of the San Francisco Business Times has more on the A’s move to its own channel.

Steve Lepore at Puck The Media has news that Monday’s Sharks-Bruins game drew the highest NHL regular season viewing audience in Versus’ history.

Anthony Crupi of Mediaweek writes about the Golf Channel’s new 10 year rights deal with the LPGA.

The Desert Sun (CA) reports that the new LPGA deal will not affect the Kraft Nabisco Championship which is on ESPN2 and CBS.

Here’s the Golf Channel’s release on the LPGA deal.

That’s going to do it for now. Check back later for more

If It’s Tuesday, It Must Be Linkage

Time for some linkage on this Tuesday.

I did listen to the debut of Andy Gresh on Sirius XM Radio last night. It was good. Gresh knows how to generate calls and get people to talk. I listened from 11 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. and he had a good interview with former Oakland A’s pitcher Dave Stewart in regards to Rickey Henderson’s election to the Baseball Hall of Fame. It was typical Gresh and he was able to get some good stories from Stewart on Rickey. Overall, I’d give Greshie a B plus for his debut. If you want more info on the show, you can head to the official website which launched yesterday.

On to the linkage.

Mike McCarthy of USA Today looks at the ratings of selected weekend events.

The Sports Media Watch says the ratings for the Arizona-Carolina NFL playoff game were down from last year. The SMW writes the ratings for the Eagles-Giants game were also down despite having the #1 and #4 media markets. But the ratings for San Diego-Pittsburgh were the highest of the weekend, but were also down from last year. The SMW has some random ratings news. Finally, the blog says T-Mobile has pulled its ads featuring Charles Barkley.

Newsday’s Neil Best does not give Giants unofficial spokesman Antonio Pierce a pass for not talking to reporters on Sunday and Monday, and speaking only to WFAN which is a paid appearance. Neil says it’s only fair to call out Pierce because he himself appointed himself as team spokesman. Neil has posted video of one of the reasons why older Giants fans don’t like attending games in person.

Bill Hutchinson of the New York Daily News writes that Fox Sports’ Joe Buck, Troy Aikman and Tim McCarver all received illegal U.S. Marshal escorts to the 2007 World Series in Boston and Super Bowl XLII in Tampa thanks to a Fox staffer who was also a U.S. Marshal. The Smoking Gun has the Report of Investigation into the matter.

Also from the Daily News, Bob Raissman says Fox got the short ratings straw by drawing the Arizona Cardinals in the NFC Championship.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell talks with the outgoing commissioner of the National Lacrosse League. Darren asks for your vote on the greatest TV product. Darren says it’s a good thing that Jim Rice got elected to the Hall of Fame. And Darren writes that FIFA may need a new information technology sponsor for the 2010 World Cup in the wake of Satyam’s economic troubles.

Keith Groller of the Allentown Morning News says Donovan McNabb’s phone antics during the Eagles-Giants game were subject of debates.

Ray Frager of the Baltimore Sun talks about some changes in local sports radio. And Ray talks with host Rob Long about why he changed stations.

The Akron Beacon Journal reports that Cleveland sports radio station WKNR has made a change to its lineup.

Phil Rosenthal of the Chicago Tribune was not enthused over Mike North’s and Dan Jiggetts’ debut on Comcast SportsNet on Monday.

Ed Sherman of Crain’s Chicago Business has a quick sports business round-up. Ed wonders if the Washington Redskins cutting 20 positions is going to be a trend around the NFL.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes that the Eagles-Giants playoff game was the most watched of the four NFL playoff games locally (scroll down).

Billy Packer and Bob Knight are teaming up for five shows on Fox Sports Net to analyze the NCAA Tournament from the Wynn Las Vegas casino.

Walt Belcher of the Tampa Tribune writes that CBS will have another Super Bowl Commercials special at the end of the month broadcast from Randall James Stadium.

SJ Munoz of the York (NE) News-Times says there was a time when ESPN was actually known for giving sports news.

The Dallas Morning News’ Barry Horn feels the Super Bowl is ratings-proof no matter which teams are participating. Barry handicaps the Dallas Cowboys radio rights sweepstakes.

Maury Brown of the Biz of Baseball says Vin Scully has been named as Best Sportscaster of All-Time.

Tom Hoffarth from the Los Angeles Daily News has the entire list of Top 50 Sportscasters of All-Time.

Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times says Washington-Oregon will not be on FSN this week.

Starr Begley of the Maui (HI) News goes behind the scenes of Golf Channel’s production of the Mercedes-Benz Championship last weekend.

Michael David Smith of AOL Fanhouse is not enamored with NBC’s hiring of Matt Millen for the Super Bowl.

Steve Lepore in the Puck The Media blog says the Anaheim Ducks have ended their ice level camera broadcasts on Fox Sports West and Prime Ticket. Steve has the final three of the NHL Tournament of Announcers after clearing up some shenanigans with the Jack Edwards-Sam Rosen vote. And Steve has a look at the NHL if it were on The CW.

And I’ll end the links here for now.

Thursday Stuff

I have some links for you today.

The Boston Herald’s Inside Track Girls report that NESN’s Heidi Watney is dating a former Fenway Park groundskeeper. Thanks to Sox & Dawgs for that link. So much for the rumors Heidi dating Jason Veritek.

The lovely Jessica Heslam of the Herald reports that the New England Patriots are moving their weekly “All Access” show from WCVB to WBZ next season after Channel 5 was its home for 10 years (scroll down).

Newsday’s Neil Best says the “Giants On-Line” crew do not feel this season’s Eagles are like last season’s Giants.

This link comes courtesy of Neil. Marcus Hayes of the Philadelphia Daily News says Fox’s Michael Strahan wonders why Philly does not show the love for Eagles QB Donovan McNabb.

Calvin Watkins from the Dallas Morning News says Pacman Jones plans to sue ESPN for its report stating that he arranged a shooting outside an Atlanta nightclub.

Scott Collins from the Los Angeles Times says the Indianapolis-San Diego NFL Wild Card playoff game on NBC was the highest rated program of the week.

Roger van der Horst of the Raleigh (NC) News & Observer discusses tonight’s 3-D broadcast of the BCS Championship Game.

The Sports Media Watch says Fox Sports had a ratings fiesta for the Fiesta Bowl.

Elton Alexander of the Cleveland Plain Dealer writes that the Mid-American Conference is waiting for news on its new TV package.

Jason Anderson of the Stockton (CA) Record writes that tonight begins the Big West Conference’s 13 game TV package with ESPN and FSN.

Jim Ecker of the Cedar Rapids (IA) Gazette feels the Big Ten Network should have more of a Hawkeye presence.

Christine Hall from Houston Business Journal talks about Fox Sports Houston’s transition to a 24/7 network.

Le Anna Kosub of the San Antonio Express-News writes that the local market will see both Fox Sports Houston and Fox Sports Southwest.

The Rochester (MN) Post-Bulletin says Fox Sports North will air a tribute to Twins owner Carl Pohlad tonight.

Eric Degerman of the Tri-City (WA) Herald says FSN Northwest has picked up 24 Utah Jazz games from sister network, Fox Sports Utah.

Awful Announcing also summarizes Dick Vitale’s commentary on last night’s Miami-Denver game.

From On the DL, Dan Levy speaks with CBS Sports’ Ian Eagle. Thanks to Awful Announcing for that link.

Ed Sherman from Crain’s Chicago Business says the new Comcast SportsNet morning show will have some big guests when it premieres next week. And Ed says golf’s heavy hitters are staying away from this weekend’s season opening tournament.

Vlada Gelman of TV Week says Golf Channel is launching an HD feed.

Puck The Media lists the regional sports networks that will carry the AHL All-Star Game.

Broadcast Engineering reports that MLB.com is switching its media player from Microsoft Silverlight to Adobe Flash.

That will do it for now. That might do it for links today, we’ll see.

Late Night Linkage

I’m still recovering from another mind-blowing episode of “Damages”. Tonight was the season premiere and just like the series premiere, the episode starts off with a scene from present day, then works backwards six months prior. Then the ending of tonight’s episode shocked me. If you haven’t seen it yet, I will not spoil it for you, but suffice to say that a major character at the end of the season will be killed off. That’s my prediction. Unbelievable. My anticipation for tonight’s episode was high and I could not blog, then while the episode was running, I could not blog and it’s been over a half hour since I watched it and I’m just now coming down. It’s the same feelings I had after a great 24 or Lost episode. Ok, I’ll provide you with some linkage, then post some press releases that I need to clear out of my inbox.

In what only can described as moronic, Bruce Allen of the Boston Sports Media Watch has a couple of links to a story about a man who made threatening phone calls to WEEI and the Dennis & Callahan show in particular. Included in those links was one to Jessica Heslam of the Boston Herald says the man also made a threatening call to WEEI’s General Manager Julie Kahn. Dumb. Very dumb.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News writes that DirecTV and Comcast are fighting over increased carriage fees for two of its regional sports networks in New England and the Bay Area.

My friend, John Crowe, has some DirecTV channel changes in the Crowe’s Nest.

I forgot to link to this earlier today. Dave Kohl of Major League Programs says Matt Millen is making the right career choice by going back to TV and not pursuing another GM job in the NFL.

Newsday’s Neil Best says Fox Sports’ Troy Aikman has reversed course on the choice of taking Tony Romo or Eli Manning.

Barry Horn from the Dallas Morning also talked to Troy Aikman, but this was about whom he likes as head coaches. And Barry has a transcript of an exchange between NFL insider Mike Lombardi and Cris Collinsworth from tonight’s Inside the NFL on Showtime.

Toni Fitzgerald of Media Life Magazine writes that the NFL dominated the weekend ratings.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell has reader reaction (including misguided BC fans) to the firing of Jeff Jagodzinski by Boston College for interviewing with the New York Jets. And Darren has the transcript of his interview with New York Yankees President and attack dog Randy Levine. You may remember when Levine called on the Tampa Bay Rays to forfeit games when Hurricane Frances did not allow the team to leave Florida back in 2004, forcing the Yankees to reschedule games and play a doubleheader.

He announced it on MLB Network just before it ran his PBS documentary series on Tuesday and now the AP reports that Ken Burns is adding a “10th inning” to “Baseball” and it will air in 2010. The original series had 9 “innings” or parts when it first aired in 1994.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union writes that Time Warner Cable in the Capital Region will air the AHL All-Star Game later this month.

Roger van der Horst of the Raleigh News & Observer says advance ticket sales for the 3-D presentation of the BCS National Championship Game on Thursday have been slow. And Roger writes that Saturday’s East Carolina-Marshall game will be on CBS College Sports which is distributed on sports tiers locally.

Ed Sherman of Crain’s Chicago Business feels NBC is taking a risk on having Matt Millen do analysis at the Super Bowl. And Ed says Jay Mariotti is getting a big response since joining AOL Fanhouse this week.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News says Golf Channel is ramped up for the new PGA Tour season as the Mercedes Benz Championship tees off in primetime on Thursday.

Puck The Media lists his Elite Eight in the NHL Tournament of Announcers. I just don’t understand how NESN’s Jack Edwards is there. And PTM remembers when Fox produced 60 NHL games a season.

SportsbyBrooks via Sports Business Daily says Versus has climbed to number three in total viewers among the sports specialty networks behind the ESPN and ESPN2 giants.

That’s going to conclude this link session for the night. It’s late. Press release action will have to wait until the morning.

Ranking the Sports Specialty Networks

Now that the MLB Network has debuted, I’ll rank the channels that are singularly devoted to their sports. I’ll rank MLB Network, NBA TV, NFL Network, NHL Network, Golf Channel and Tennis Channel. I include Golf and Tennis even though they are not owned by the PGA or ATP/WTA respectively, becuase they are devoted to one sport. I’ll also give the reasons for my ranking. Here we go.

1. MLB Network – In just two and a half days, MLB Network has surpassed all of the specialty channels because of its production values, its extensive classic game library and the quality of its studio shows. While Hot Stove doesn’t have a lead anchor in the likes of Karl Ravech, Victor Rojas has shown promise in the way he led discussions with Harold Reynolds, Al Leiter and Barry Larkin. Also, Harold Reynolds gives MLB Network instant credibility. And by hiring “insiders” Tom Verducci and Jon Heyman from Sports Illustrated, the network shows it will cover trades and news as they break. I also like the hires of Hazel Mae and Trenni Kusnierek. This network is already showing that it plans to have a deep bench.

2. NFL Network – Rich Eisen is the best of the studio hosts on the specialty channels. He’s very good on NFL Total Access and NFL Gameday Final. In addition, Fran Charles, Alex Flanagan and Lindsay Soto are solid on the bench. But Spero Dedes, the host of NFL Gameday Morning looks like he’s still in high school. He’s good and probably will turn out to be a solid host, but he needs some facial hair or to age 10 years to be a bit more credible. Analysts like Deion Sanders, Steve Mariucci and Marshall Faulk are quite good. NFL Network can tap into the NFL Films library for programming, however, it’s not doing it as much as it should, which is unfortunate. America’s Game is the best sports documentary series ever. However, what holds back NFL Network is its live game production and its fight with Big Cable.

3. Golf Channel – This is not owned by the PGA Tour, however, it’s devoted to golf and having the entire PGA Tour helps. While Comcast is attempting to get some wider distribution, its production of studio shows plus devotion to the PGA majors are on par with NFL Network’s Super Bowl week. I also like the original programming like Big Break. The channel did correct a wrong by bringing back Vince Cellini. Kelly Tilghman is still a work in progress as the main anchor in the 18th tower for PGA events and while she did err in making her unfortunate comment about Tiger Woods last year, she knows the game. Also, having a head start on the other sports specialty channels has helped.

4. NBA TV – Turner Sports taking over operation definitely helped the channel which seemed to be stuck in place being run out of the NBA studios in New Jersey. Moving to Atlanta has given the channel a much needed boost. However, depending on Ahmad Rashad as your main host is a mistake. He’s not a guy I would use to be the go-to guy, but NBA TV is not going to give you journalism. For game broadcasts, NBA TV depends too much on local regional sports networks for production. Hopefully, this will stop as Turner gets more involved in the operation. To be in fourth is still not a bad thing.

5. NHL Network – The studios appear to be in a broom closet. NHL On The Fly is the closest thing we have to the old NHL2nite on ESPN2, but it’s a far cry from the show. While we get highlights and live cut-ins, the hosts and analysts looks as if they’re crammed into the corner of TSN’s studios. The NHL should spend some money (preferably after we recover the recession) on some new studios. I do like the fact NHL Network has picked up CBC’s Hockey Night in Canada and TSN’s Wednesday Night Hockey for fans in the US, and it also got the rights to show the IIHF World Junior Championships, but there’s still more work to be done. The series of “Voices”, the documentaries on various hockey TV and radio voices is very good, but more can be done to put this on a level with MLB and NFL Networks.

6. Tennis Channel – I do like that the channel has the Grand Slam. Very good. I do like the live tournament coverage. However, there’s no real studio program to wrap up the day’s events or to set up what’s ahead. Hiring Ted Robinson and John McEnroe for the French Open is a good move. I do hope they do more for the US Open and Wimbledon which come to Tennis Channel this year. The channel does have some good documentaries, but there’s too much dependence on past tournaments to fill time. Whether the channel can get some more original programming and stop overdosing on “Murphy’s Guide” is anyone’s guess. I’m tired of seeing him mug for the cameras dancing with Maria Sharapova or Ana Ivanovic. This channel needs a lot of work.

So there you have it. Ski Channel was supposed to be added to DirecTV on Christmas Day, but I’ve yet to see it. If there are more channels to review, I’ll add them. But this is how I see the specialty channels.

Time For Sunday Linkage

Yep, it’s Sunday. Time for your links. I think I’ve struck a chord with my “Bridget Regan is Hot” post from yesterday. That particular post has exploded with people from all over the world checking it out. In case you don’t know, Bridget stars in “Legend of the Seeker” which is syndicated all over the world. I happened to put it up because the video in which she’s interviewed by G4′s “Attack of the Show” (which has its own resident hottie in Olivia Munn) she’s quite hot. I did not expect so many hits from Germany, South Korea and Denmark. So, welcome to everyone visiting around the globe.

Let’s get to your links.

Newsday’s Neil Best is appealing to jewelry companies to stop advertising during football games to make us men feel guilty. I totally agree. And Neil has his New York Sports Business Quote of the Year.

The New York Daily News’ Bob Raissman feels the price for the Oscar De La Hoya-Manny Pacquaio PPV might keep fans away during this tough economy. This is something I can actually agree with Raissman.

The New York Post’s Phil Mushnick goes after the Knicks for its new season ticket plan.

From the DC Examiner, Jim Williams says Redskins, Ravens, Terps and the Hoyas all dominate the TV viewing in the Baltimore/DC area today.

Dave Weekley in the Charleston (WV) Gazette says you can now find Life magazine’s archive of sports pictures on Google.

Scott Fowler of the Charlotte Observer talks with CBS NFL analyst Steve Bueurlein about one particular play which is remembered to this day.

Brad Locke of the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal talks about Raycom’s final game as SEC over the air syndicator.

Jerry Zgoda of the Minneapolis Star Tribune suggests for the Timberwolves to bring back one of their old radio voices.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says the Detroit Lions really put out a stinker on Thanksgiving Day.

Dale Robertson of the Houston Chronicle recalls the city’s history with Monday Night Football in advance of the Texans’ first appearance on the series.

Donald Ridgeway of the News-Sun (FL) says one local golf course showcased on Golf Channel’s Highway 18 reality series hopes to get some visits thanks to the national exposure.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News says the winner of the Big 12 South division should not be decided by computer and announced on TV. And Barry has the discussion from CBS’ Tim Brando and Spencer Tillman on the lack of African-American coaches in college football.

Andrea Cohen of The Oklahoman says College Gameday’s visit to Stillwater on Saturday was a success.

Ron Judd of the Seattle Times says Universal Sports’ coverage of its first alpine skiing event did not go all that well.

That’s it for now. If I find more links, I’ll certainly post them. Expect the usual Sunday features coming up later and also look for me at the Sox & Dawgs site at 4:15 p.m. for its live blog of the Steelers-Pats game.

Tuesday Links

Ok, no fooling around. I’ll be live blogging the ESPN/BCS conference call at noon ET so let me provide some linkage now.

A couple of things from USA Today. Reid Cherner goes to NFL Films headquarters in New Jersey and talks with President Steve Sabol.

And USA Today’s great Game On! blog is following the 23 hour ESPN college basketball marathon. Someone has to and Reid Cherner and Tom Weir have been writing since midnight.

USA Today’s Michael Hiestand has a look at the ratings of selected events.

Boston Sports Media Watch links to a story from Jessica Heslam of the Boston Herald regarding a WEEI part-time update anchor who was charged with motor vehicle homicide and driving under the influence stemming from a fatal car crash over the weekend.

A couple of things from Newsday. First, Neil Best writes that Giants QB Eli Manning’s no-nonsense style with the media fits him perfectly. Neil also expands on his column in his blog. Neil links to this story in which the New York Times has shut down its quarterly “Play” sports magazine. Every once in a while, I would link to stories from there and Will Leitch contributed to the publication before he left Deadspin. It was a very good magazine.

Over to Newsday NFL writer and frequent Fang’s Bites visitor Bob Glauber who links to a story over at Bob’s Blitz, the great blog headed by Bob Mantz. Bob’s Blitz is reporting that Jets QB Brett Favre is leaning towards a return to the team next season. If you remember two Sundays ago, Fox Sports’ Terry Bradshaw predicted Favre would announce his retirement before the end of this season. We’ll see who’s correct.

The New York Daily News’ Bob Raissman feels MSG Network’s Kelly Tripucka is now lockstep with the channel’s directives.

Blogging for CNBC’s Darren Rovell, the South Florida Sun Sentinel’s Sarah Talalay writes that NASCAR teams are now cutting back in big ways due to the sagging economy.

The Bergen (NJ) Daily Record says 1050 ESPN Radio’s Michael Kay will be live from Jets camp today.

Alan Pergament of the Buffalo News says the only one good thing about last night’s Browns-Bills game was the announcing team.

Keith Groller of the Allentown (PA) Morning Call says Eagles’ radio broadcasters Merrill Reese and Mike Quick did not sugarcoat the team’s tie with the Bengals.

Bob Smizik of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette says this Thursday’s Steelers-Bengals game will be available in a limited area as the NFL Network will be airing the contest.

The Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson writing in Pro Football Weekly says the NFL primetime schedule remains static for the next few weeks.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes that pregame predictions about the Packers turned out to be very wrong.

Diane Pucin of the Los Angeles Times talks about Fox refusing to match the ESPN offer for the BCS.
The Sports Media Watch says NASCAR’s final race of the season finished down in the ratings compared to last year. And the SMW has a look at some big names including Dallas Mavericks and HDNet owner Mark Cuban who’s charged with insider trading.

Steve Lepore of the Puck The Media blog goes after Versus for an in-game interview that marred a scoring play during the Toronto-Bruins game last night. Steve also has another round of his NHL Tournament of Announcers (JP Dellacamera vs. Joe Beninati). I’m voting for Joe for his connection to the Providence Bruins. And Steve wonders what’s next for former Tampa Bay Lightning coach Barry Melrose (apparently not Versus).

Lisa van der Pool of the Boston Business Journal says NESN’s Dennis Eckersley has signed a new deal with the network to remain as a studio analyst.

Mark Harden of the Denver Business Journal says the Colorado Rockies and FSN Rocky Mountain have signed a deal to keep the cable channel the exclusive home of the team through 2025.

David Bauder of the Asssociated Press says ESPN is bringing back the motorcycle daredevils on New Year’s Eve.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News says CBS College Sports has picked up several up several distribution deals.

Kelly Johnson of the Sacramento Business Journal says the Maloof Brothers have signed with reality TV producer Mark Burnett to create a reality show based on the Kings.

Golf Channel tells us that it’s bringing ESPN’s Scott Walker to its on-air team.

Chris Zelkovich of the Toronto Star says TSN misfired during the CFL playoffs.

William Houston of the Toronto Globe and Mail wishes Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper would speak out about hockey in the way US President-elect Barack Obama spoke out about college football.

That’s it until noon time.

Hey! You Get Sunday Linkage

After dropping off Dad at the airport at 5 a.m. today and doing some work at the office up until 11 a.m., I’m now home and I’m watching some NFL pregame action all as I get ready to bring you linkage on this Sunday. This is definitely an unexpected bonus.

Newsday’s Neil Best talks with Fox Sports’ Michael Strahan who refuses to hide his Giants allegiance. In his blog, Neil talks a bit more about Strahan’s comments.

Bob Raissman of the New York Daily News says the Knicks are just same old, same old.

Phil Mushnick of the New York Post feels the new generation of play-by-play voices yell too much.

Bryan Curtis writes in the New York Times Play magazine that the locker room interview may have outlived its usefulness.

Vincent Mallozzi of the Times talks with YES Nets analyst Mike Fratello.

Alan Pergament of the Buffalo News writes that the three and a half inning end to Game 5 of the World Series brought in the viewers.

Ms. Laura Nachman says Philadelphia turned out for the World Series parade on Friday and mostly watched it on the ABC affiliate.

Kevin Van Valkenburg of the Baltimore Sun writes about a memorial tribute to the late Jim McKay.

In the DC Examiner, Jim Williams says the NFL dominates TV viewing today.

Dave Weekley of the Charleston (WV) Gazette says with a new Bowl Championship Series TV contract being negotiated, it appears that chances for a college football playoff are going by the wayside.

Michael Solender of the Charlotte Observer profiles CBS and Golf Channel analyst Peter Oosterhuis who lives in the area.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News has some thoughts on the upcoming college football weekend.

The Sports Media Watch has its Weekend Ratings Predictions. And the SMW has the final MLB postseason ratings game-by-game.

Mike Bianchi of the Orlando Sentinel tells University of Central Florida fans to start questioning the school’s administration and not the media after a damning report on the death of a player in today’s Outside the Lines program on ESPN. Iliana Limon of the Sentinel recaps the report. And the Sentinel has some excerpts of the report.

Rick Herrin of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram looks at the army ESPN has brought to the Texs Motor Speedway for today’s NASCAR race.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News says Fox Sports Net officially rolled out new affiliates in the Carolinas and Tennessee this weekend.

John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer profiles Bengals color analyst Dave Lapham.

Don Walker of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says the Fox Sports Wisconsin Bucks broadcasting team received regional Emmy Awards.

Andrew Kossak of Examiner.com says both big cable and NFL Network are to blame for keeping eight games away from most fans.

That will do it for your Sunday. I should have more posts today.

Some Thursday Night Links, Not A Lot

I’m actually doing some work tonight, but in between tasks, I’ll give you some linkage.

Tripp Mickle of the Sports Business Journal has five off-the-ice issues to watch for the NHL this season.

Neil Best of Newsday, through the LA Times, has UFC President-for-Life Dana White blasting Elite XC and CBS.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union says the NHL has begun its Center Ice free preview on satellite and cable. And Pete felt that Tim McCarver really looked old during his appearance on ESPN’s Outside the Lines yesterday.

From Ken Schott’s blog at the Schenectady Gazette, he provides us with this link to his appearance on FoxSports 980 from Thursday. Ken tells us that Albany River Rats fans can only catch the team’s season opener on Saturday on the net.

The great Jim Williams from the DC/Baltimore Examiner writes that the Senior Players Championship from the Baltimore Country Club can be seen on Golf Channel and NBC.

John Ketzenberger of the Indianapolis Star says the dispute between Bright House Cable and a local CBS affiliate is all over money.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News reports that the Dallas Stars broadcast team has signed a new long term contract.

Tony Jones of the Salt Lake Tribune says Utah State University is cherishing a rare opportunity to be on national TV this coming Saturday.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News previews his Friday media column.

The Sports Media Watch has some ratings news and notes.

Multichannel News says Setanta Sports has signed its first cable carriage deal with Cox Communications.

John Consoli from Mediaweek writes that the NFL is off to a solid start in the ratings, five weeks into its season. John says NASCAR is revving up an awareness campaign involving the digital TV switchover.

Rick Reeno of BoxingScene.com reports that ESPN will drop its Wednesday Night Fight series to focus its priorities on ESPN2′s Friday Night Fights.

That will do it for now.

Mid-Week Links or Gearing Up for the NFL

As we steamroll into September, we now just about into football mode. Last month, it was Olympics mode. This month, it’ll be football, then next month, baseball postseason mode. You can pretty much tell what mode I’m in by visiting here every day. Let’s do your links.

Richard Sandomir of the New York Times reports that the talks between the NFL and ESPN to put the eight late season NFL Network games on ESPN Classic are at an apparent impasse.

Jeff Richgels in the Capital (WI) Times writes that Charter Communications is not in any rush to add the NFL Network.

USA Today’s Michael Hiestand says the next phase of NFL TV wars will be the 7 p.m. ET Sunday highlights hour in which ESPN, Fox and NBC will all compete with one another.

ESPN gives details of its new 7 p.m. Sunday SportsCenter which will be co-hosted by Chris Berman and John Saunders.

Larry Barrett of Multichannel News talks about ESPN reuniting most of the original NFL Primetime crew for its 7 p.m. Sunday SportsCenter.

The Sports Media Watch looks at the Sunday SportsCenter overhauls in both the morning and early evening dayparts for the NFL season.

Jeffrey Flanagan of the Kansas City Star says now that the Olympics are over, the Chiefs are back on top of the ratings.

Sam Adams from the Rocky Mountain News talks with Warren Sapp who joins Showtime and the NFL Network this season.

Nate Davis of USA Today says Michael Strahan is the star of the latest installment of NFL Films’ America’s Game that focuses on the New York Giants Super Bowl win last February.

Joe Arnold of the Lancaster (OH) Eagle-Gazette says some Time Warner customers in town saw a Western movie instead of the Youngstown State-Ohio State game on the Big Ten Network.

The great Washington, DC radio-TV news site, dcrtv.com broke news Tuesday that Baltimore is getting a third sports radio station. Ray Frager of the Baltimore Sun says the new sports station will launch next Monday. Ray has the talk lineup for the station. Thanks to reader Mark Lipsitz for e-mailing me about this story. In addition, Ray says former Ravens coach Brian Billick will host a monthly show on one of the established Baltimore sports stations.

Brenda Carl of Baltimore station, WCBM, writes in the Baltimore Examiner about the third sports radio station in town. Neal Shaffer, also of the Examiner, handicaps the strengths and weaknesses of each station.

Ken McMillan of the Hudson Valley Times Herald-Record tells us about ESPN Radio losing an affiliate.

You want more sports radio news? Why not? Sporting News Radio has debuted a new morning show this week, Sporting News Today hosted by former CNN Headline News sports anchor Jerome Jurenovich. And if you’ve missed hearing Jerome, you can listen to him talk about this new show.

Let’s give you some more sports radio news. Phil Rosenthal of the Chicago Tribune says former WSCR host Mike North will do a daily show on the internet. And you can hear it here.

Ted Cox of the Chicago Daily Herald also discusses North’s new show.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell has a suggestion for Michael Phelps on how to keep his name in the headlines. And Darren got a chance to ride in the DirecTV blimp over the US Open yesterday.

Christopher Byrne’s Eye on Sports Media blog has the NBC Sports/Notre Dame schedule along with the talent and production rosters.

Jerry Greene in the Orlando Sentinel talks with ESPN’s Dick Vitale about his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame this Friday.

Friend of Fang’s Bites, Maury Brown of the Biz of Baseball blog has his take on MLB looking to stream live games into local markets next season.

Staci D. Kramer of paidContent.org says MLB is going to wait until next year to stream live local games.

Dan Lamonthe of the Red Sox Monster blog has video of Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia facetiously saying NESN analyst Jerry Remy “stunk” when he played second base. Back in August, Dan explained the whole Dustin “the Agitator” thing.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes about a book that ranks Dwayne Wade as the greatest Marquette University basketball player of all time.

Alex Weprin of Broadcasting & Cable reports that Golf Channel has signed a new agreement with Dish Network.

Multichannel News says CBS College Sports is going to air eight high school football games in primetime.

Mike Shields of Mediaweek writes that Dodge and Gillette will be sponsoring microsites on NASCAR.com.

I don’t know who wrote this article in the Washington Times, but it talks about the increased attendance for tennis at the US Open this year.

A lot of links for you today. I’ve got another couple of posts for you so keep your RSS feeds updated.

Some Labor Day Holiday Links

Before I have to head out to the office (again, my day has been planned for me), I’ll provide you with some linkage.

Ken McMillan of the Hudson Valley Times Herald-Record liked the work of ESPN’s Eric Collins and Shaun King in Friday’s Army-Temple game.

Joe Favorito looks at the athletic background of Republican Vice Presidential candidate Sarah Palin.

Tom Jones of the St. Petersburg Times looks back at the weekend of televised sports.

Dusty Saunders of the Rocky Mountain News says one local sports station has not only changed its frequency, but has also changed its sound.

The Baseball Hall of Fame has released the candidates for the Ford C. Frick Award, the local broadcaster who will be inducted into the Hall next year. Voice of the Seattle Mariners Dave Niehaus was inducted this year.

Maury Brown from the Biz of Baseball has comments from TBS’ Chip Carey and Buck Martinez during yesterday’s White Sox-Red Sox game.

I don’t know how I missed this. Awful Announcing has the very first commercial starring ESPN’s Erin Andrews.

The Sports Media Watch says ABC’s Saturday Night Football got off to a hot start.

Dave Ornauer of the Stars and Stripes newspaper says Armed Forces Network offers up a lot of college football for our enlisted men and women.

Chris Zelkovich of the Toronto Star talks about changes that are coming to Canada’s third all-sports network, The Score.

Grant Robertson of the Toronto Globe and Mail says The Score’s owners are investing a lot of money in these changes.

The Huntington (WV) Herald-Dispatch says a local golfer will be featured on a Golf Channel special on up-and-coming golfers getting tutored by an acclaimed swing coach.

In his mailbag, Sports Illustrated tennis writer Jon Wertheim talks about YouTube launching a new US Open channel (scroll down).

Ann LoPrinzi of the Times of Trenton (NJ) talks with the Boston Globe’s/ESPN’s/Tennis Channel’s Bud Collins about his new book on tennis.

There you have it. Not many links, but it’s not about quantity, it’s about quality. I may be back with another update, keep your RSS feeds updated.

Late Friday Night Links

I’ll give you a few late night links before heading to bed. I watched Manny Ramirez’s first at-bat on FSN Prime Ticket and listening to Vin Scully is like enjoying the best red wine out of your cellar. The man is 80 years old and about to turn 81 and he still has it.

Let’s give you some links.

Paul J. Gough of the Hollywood Reporter has NBC Sports Emperor Dick Ebersol saying his division will not shy away from covering breaking news at the Olympics. We’ll see.

Newsday’s Neil Best breaks some news that Cablevision will not be carrying the 2,200 internet hours that NBC will carry live from the Olympics in Communist China, saying it’s too expensive.

Linda Moss of Multichannel News says CNN and sister publication, Sports Illustrated will team up to cover the Olympics.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel writes that ESPN is getting ready for its new live SportsCenter morning block which premieres later this month.

The Sports Media Watch has the weekend ratings predictions.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union says the New York Giants’ exhibition opener has been relegated to the local NBC affiliate’s digital channel and won’t be seen on the main channel.

Ken Schott from the Schenectady Gazette writes that golfer Laura Diaz is still angry at NBC/Golf Channel analyst Dottie Pepper for comments she made at last year’s Solheim Cup.

The Hudson Valley Times Herald-Record’s Ken McMillan says the explosion of Little League Baseball games on TV continues as MSG Network and NESN will co-produce games next week.

Ray Frager of the Baltimore Sun says Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic is airing a special on Washington Redskins Hall of Fame wide receiver Art Monk this weekend.

Bruce Allen of the Boston Sports Media Watch has a look at Charley Pierce calling out the Boston media for its behavior during the Manny Ramirez debacle.

Awful Announcing finds that another writer has gotten into trouble for plagiarism.

Maury Brown from the Biz of Baseball looks at Hazel Mae, formerly of NESN, and Harold Reynolds, formerly of ESPN, as being possible hires at the new MLB Network.

That’s it until tomorrow.

Monday Night Update

Let’s give you some links this evening.

First, from Neil Best of Newsday, he has transcribed what Chris Russo of WFAN said to open the Mike & the Mad Dog show today. Russo responds to Neil’s story that Mike & the Mad Dog could split up by Labor Day.

A.J. Daulerio of Deadspin says Don Imus may have said something unwise again.

Sports Illustrated’s Richard Deitsch says HBO is going to give the Duke-North Carolina rivalry the same treatment it gave to Michigan-Ohio State.

Fox Sports makes the announcement that it will formally introduce Michael Strahan as a member of the Fox NFL Sunday team tomorrow.

Mark Cannizzaro of the New York Post says Strahan didn’t wait long to sign with Fox Sports.

Ken Schott of the Schenectady Gazette writes that ABC/ESPN will televise three days of horse racing from the famed Saratoga race track.

The next link comes from Tom Jones of the St. Petersburg Times. Michael David Smith of the AOL Fanhouse blog talks with suspended ESPN.com columnist Jemele Hill about the line referencing Hitler that got her in hot water.

ESPN.com has now published Hill’s apology with some expanded comments.

The New York Post’s TV Sports blog has Rocco Mediate downplaying Johnny Miller’s comments that he had to apologize for.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell pays tribute to the late George Carlin.

ESPN Radio is going to launch an online affiliate network providing live streaming of its radio stations in various cities.

In one of the worst kept secrets, Barry Melrose is leaving ESPN to become the head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Linda Moss of Multichannel News writes that Dish Network subscribers get six dedicated channels to ESPN2′s coverage of Wimbledon.

Chris Albrecht of NewTeeVee.com wonders if Wimbledon will be a hit online.

Pete Barlas of Investor’s Business Daily writes that NBC will provide the entire Olympics experience online, but only if you have Windows Vista. Windows XP and Mac users are out of luck.

Staci D. Kramer of PaidContent.org writes for the Washington Post that NBC is playing hardball with websites that offer video from the U.S. Olympic trials. This sounds a lot like the NFL. Swimming World magazine reports that any website must take down Olympic trials video permanently by August 7.

Gretchen Hansen of Entertainment Weekly already has Olympic fever.

Brendan Savage of the Flint (MI) Journal tells us that even without Tiger Woods, there will be plenty of national and local TV coverage of the Buick Open at Warwick Hills.

The Orlando Business Journal says Golf Channel will be premiering a new reality series.

Michael Rosenberg of the Detroit Free Press cautions readers to beware of the Big Ten Network-Comcast deal.

I think that will do it for us tonight.

Wednesday Night Links

Just when you think it’s safe to be free from linkage, you get some more.

You know that game show Wipeout ABC was promoting during the NBA Finals? The show looks like a ripoff of Ninja Warrior on G4. Well, Awful Announcing has discovered who the host will be. The one good thing is the co-host will be Mercury-Lincoln chick, Jill Wagner.

As you well know by now, Tiger Woods has announced that he will miss the rest of the PGA Tour this season because of his bad knee and double stress fracture in his left tibia. CNBC’s Darren Rovell says Tiger’s absence will definitely hurt his sponsors who pay megabucks to be associated with him.

Robert Marich of Broadcasting & Cable says Tiger’s absence will have an adverse effect on the PGA Tour’s TV partners.

The Sports Media Watch says the NBA Finals averaged a 9.3 rating and 15 million viewers for the six game series. And the blog tells us that ratings for MLB on ESPN and Fox are down by double digits this season.

Justin Terranova writes in the New York Post’s TV Sports blog that last night’s Game 6 of the NBA Finals had the highest ratings of the series despite being a 39 point blowout.

Lisa Snedeker of Media Life Magazine writes that the spectacular one year turnaround of the Boston Celtics also led to a spectacular one year turnaround for the NBA Finals on ABC.

Andrew Krukowski of TV Week says Game 6 of the NBA Finals won the night for ABC.

Jemele Hill has apologized for her anti-Celtics column on ESPN.com last week.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News says the Dodgers are getting their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

LC of the 38 Cliches blog enjoyed listening to Jon Rish calling today’s Red Sox game against the Phillies on the radio in place of Dave O’Brien today.

The Orbitcast blog on satellite radio reports that Sirius will be changing its lineup starting June 24 including the addition of more sports channels for live events.

Anthony Crupi of Mediaweek writes that Comcast will provide Versus and the Golf Channel with their own separate HD feeds instead of having to share one.

ESPN’s excellent Outside the Lines program will examine the poor air quality in Beijing which has many athletes concerned as the Olympics Games in Communist China fast approaches. Here’s a preview of Bob Holtzman’s report that will air this Sunday.

Nick Kappel of the Biz of Football blog says the Big Ten Network and Comcast are close to an “extended basic preview” deal meaning programming would be shown from August through the end of March.

That will do it for today.

Monday Evening Links

After watching the U.S. Open online, I have to say that I’m no longer against the Monday 18 hole playoff. Watching the entire playoff, it was tremendous golf and drama. Seeing Tiger Woods and Rocco Mediate battle it out over 19 extra holes was a bonus and if the USGA wants to keep tradition and do an 18 hole playoff on Monday, so be it. There may be some anti-climatic playoffs, but after watching today, it reminds you that there’s a reason why the U.S. Open is golf’s toughest test. Great stuff and I give major props to the U.S. Open website, ESPN360 and NBCSports.com for providing live streaming coverage.

Now let’s give you some links.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell has an interesting story about one of Rocco Mediate’s sponsors prominently displayed during the U.S. Open. And Darren says based on the ratings for Sunday’s 4th round, expect to see more primetime U.S. Opens.

Multichannel News says Golf Channel awarded a father and son combo a trip to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf during its “Live from the U.S. Open” show on Father’s Day.

In the overnight ratings, the U.S. Open actually beat Game 5 of the NBA Finals as noted by the Sports Media Watch. And the SMW tells us that Game 5 drew 17.3 million people to their TV sets on Sunday night.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union says Game 5′s ratings dropped off from Game 4.

The Hollywood Reporter says the combination of Jimmy Kimmel Live and Game 5 of the NBA FInals led ABC to a primetime win last night.

Rick Kissel of Variety writes that golf and the NBA combined to stomp on the Tony Awards on Sunday (really, does anyone care about the Tony Awards).

Tom Jones of the St. Petersburg Times reports that a local sports radio host was arrested for driving under the influence over the weekend.

I’ll cut this short. But I may be back with another update tonght.

Saturday Quickie Links

As I’m back home after being away for most of the day. I’ll give you some linkage. By the way, I recorded Cubs Forever: Celebrating 60 Years of WGN-TV and the Chicago Cubs which looks back at the longest relationship between a sports team and a television station. From what I’ve seen, it’s very good.

First off, thanks to Neil Best of Newsday for wishing Fang’s Bites a Happy Birthday.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News says the Playmaker, Michael Irvin has made a smooth transition as a sports radio talk show host.

Jerry Garcia of the San Antonio Express-News wonders if anything was learned from the Buzz Bissinger vs. blogs segment on Costas Now.

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Dan Caesar writes that a former sports radio talk show host has sued his former station for wrongful termination and may go after the Cardinals next.

Alan Pergament of the Buffalo News has some thoughts on TV sports.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News writes that former ESPN anchor and current KCAL sports anchor Gary Miller embraces blogs.

Andy Tarnoff of On Milwaukee talks with the lovely Trenni Kusnierek of FSN Wisconsin.

Thomas Zambito of the New York Daily News writes that ESPN is being sued by the publishers of the Saturday Evening Post for using a Norman Rockwell painting in “The Bronx is Burning” without permission. Rut ro.

The Sports Media Watch has its weekend ratings predictions.

Jim Jordan of the Lexington (KY) Herald-Leader writes that NBC Sports will air 6 hours of the 2010 World Equestrian Games.

Paul Vigna of the Philadelphia Daily News writes that FSN will look at the one year the Eagles and Steelers combined to form one football team.

Kevin Robbins of the Austin (TX) American-Statesman says golfer Dana Quigley had a very good debut as analyst on the Golf Channel this weekend.

Judd Zulgad of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports that the Western Collegiate Hockey Association is thinking of forming its own TV network and that’s making Minnesota hockey fans a bit nervous.

Keith Reed of the Cincinnati Enquirer writes that Bengals fans may not be able to see the November 20 game against Pittsburgh unless the major cable providers get an agreement with who? The NFL Network! We’re back to playing this game again and it’s not even football season!

And I’ll be back on Sunday with more links.

29th Sports Emmy Award Winners

Last night, the 29th Sports Emmy Awards were held in New York and the big winner was HBO with 8.

James Brown won Best Studio Host for CBS, NBC had a clean sweep of Play-by-Play, Studio Analyst and Game Analyst.

SUMMARY OF WINNERS BY NETWORK

HBO (8)

Lords of Flatbush ……………………………………………………………… 2

Mayweather / Hatton 24/7 ……………………………………………………. 2

Cris Collinsworth ………………………………………………………………… 1

De La Hoya / Mayweather 24/7 …………………………………………….. 1

Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Kansas City Chiefs …. 1

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel …………………………………………. 1

FOX (5)

NASCAR on FOX …………………………………………………………………… 2

BCS on FOX Tostitos Fiesta Bowl ………………………………………….. 1

MLB on FOX …………………………………………………………………………… 1

MLB on FOX: Pre Game Show ……………………………………………… 1

ESPN (4)

Ali’s 65 ………………………………………………………………………………… 1

College Gameday ……………………………………………………………….. 1

ESPN NASCAR …………………………………………………………………… 1

Sunday NFL Countdown …………………………………………………….. 1

CBS (3)

James Brown ……………………………………………………………………… 1

Super Bowl XLI …………………………………………………………………….. 1

US Open Tennis Championships ………………………………………. 1

ESPN.com (3)

Death Race 2007 ………………………………………………………………. 1

Fantasy Football Now ………………………………………………………… 1

Ray of Hope ……………………………………………………………………….. 1

NBC (3)

Cris Collinsworth ………………………………………………………………. 1

John Madden ………………………………………………………………………. 1

Al Michaels …………………………………………………………………………. 1

TNT (3)

Inside the NBA ……………………………………………………………………. 1

NBA All-Star Saturday Night ………………………………………………… 1

NBA on TNT ………………………………………………………………………… 1

NFL Network (2)

America’s Game: The Super Bowl Champions ………………….. 1

NFL films Presents: Finding Your Butkus ………………………….. 1

ABC (1)

ESPN NASCAR …………………………………………………………………… 1

ESPN2 (1)

ESPN NASCAR …………………………………………………………………… 1

FSN (1)

Sport Science …………………………………………………………………….. 1

Golf Channel (1)

PGA Tour and LPGA Coverage ………………………………………….. 1

NASCAR Images (1)

Quest for the Cup ………………………………………………………………. 1

TBS (1)

MLB Post Season ……………………………………………………………… 1

I can imagine that ESPN will have a press release out later today saying combining all of its various platforms, it won the most Emmy Awards with 9, but that’s semantics. Here are the winners of the major awards. The complete list can be seen at emmyonline.org.

OUTSTANDING LIVE SPORTS SPECIAL:

* BCS on FOX: Tostitos Fiesta Bowl – FOX

OUTSTANDING LIVE SPORTS SERIES:

* NASCAR on FOX – FOX

OUTSTANDING LIVE EVENT TURNAROUND:

* Quest for the Cup – VOOM/NASCAR Images

OUTSTANDING EDITED SPORTS SPECIAL:

* De La Hoya/Mayweather 24/7 – HBO

OUTSTANDING SPORTS DOCUMENTARY:

* Ghosts of Flatbush – HBO

OUTSTANDING EDITED SPORTS SERIES / ANTHOLOGY:

* America’s Game: The Super Bowl Champions – NFL Networks/NFL Films

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW – WEEKLY:

* College Gameday – ESPN

OUTSTANDING STUDIO SHOW – DAILY:

* Inside the NBA – TNT

OUTSTANDING SPORTS JOURNALISM:

* Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO
Headgames: The NFL Concussion Crisis

OUTSTANDING SHORT FEATURE:

* Sunday NFL Countdown- ESPN
Fear – produced by Bluefoot Entertainment

OUTSTANDING LONG FEATURE:

* NFL Films Presents: Finding Your Butkus – NFL Network/NFL Films

OUTSTANDING OPEN/TEASE:

* Super Bowl XLI – CBS
Tease

OUTSTANDING SPORTS PERSONALITY – STUDIO HOST:

* James Brown – CBS

OUTSTANDING SPORTS PERSONALITY – PLAY-BY-PLAY:

* Al Michaels – NBC

OUTSTANDING SPORTS PERSONALITY – STUDIO ANALYST:

* Cris Collinsworth – HBO NBC

OUTSTANDING SPORTS PERSONALITY – SPORTS EVENT ANALYST:

* John Madden – NBC

THE DICK SCHAAP WRITING AWARD:

* Mayweather/Hatton 24/7 – HBO

THE GEORGE WENSEL TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:

Once again, I omitted some awards and the full list can be seen over at emmyonline.org. Also, the Emmy Awards press release lists the crews that worked so hard on the abovereferenced events so you can read the names at the Emmy Awards website if you so choose.

The Week Ahead

This is something I’m going to try to do every Sunday, previewing what’s ahead in the Week in Sport.

One of the bigger events on the sporting calendar is the Kentucky Derby and it’s always a sign of spring. NBC Sports will have its coverage starting at 4 p.m. this Saturday, May 3 with a silly red carpet show hosted by Access Hollywood’s Billy Bush. Bob Costas will be the host, Tom Hammond, Gary Stevens, Kenny Rice, Bob Neumeier, Mike Battgalia and Donna Barton Brothers will all be at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY for the opening leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown.

In baseball, ESPN will have the Yankees at Cleveland on Monday Night Baseball at 7:05 p.m.

The Red Sox try to avenge an Opening Week sweep by the hands of the Toronto Blue Jays as they’ll meet again at Fenway Park in Boston starting on Tuesday.

In another midweek series, the Yankees will travel to Detroit on Tuesday to take on the Tigers who are still trying to right their ship after a poor start to the season.

And one of the best rivalries in baseball, the Cubs and Cardinals square off in St. Louis starting on Friday. Fox will have coverage of the middle game on Saturday starting at 3:55 p.m. ESPN will have the Sunday night game at 8:05 p.m.

The NBA and NHL playoffs continue this week. The NBA schedule can be seen here. Both ESPN and TNT will have NBA coverage throughout the week. Check out the NHL playoff schedule here. Versus, CBC and TSN will have the coverage during the weeknights, NBC joins in on the weekend.

The men’s and women’s tennis tours are abroad as they prep for the French Open. The ATP Tour will be in Rome for the Masters tournament there. And the women are in Berlin.

The PGA Tour will be in Charlotte, NC this week for the Wachovia Championships. Golf Channel and CBS Sports have the coverage starting this Thursday.

The NASCAR’s Sprint Cup Series will stop in Richmond for the Dan Lowry 400. I guess that race was named for a fan. Fox will cover the race Saturday night at 7 p.m.

Those are some of the events you can look forward to this week.

The Sunday Links

On this Sunday, I’ll give you some more links because linkage never takes the weekend off.

First, I’d like to thank Will Leitch of Deadspin for linking over to Fang’s Bites this weekend. Will was doing his week in review and linked to my post listing the rundown for Costas Now this Tuesday. It’s much appreciated. For those of you coming over from Deadspin, welcome and I hope you like what you see.

Let’s get to the links now.

Newsday’s Neil Best writes about the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival that has been running this weekend.

The New York Daily News’ Bob Raissman feels the New York media is giving Mark Jackson a free pass on whether or not he wants to be Knicks coach.

The New York Post’s Phil Mushnick has a story on Hall of Fame Dodger announcer Vin Scully crediting a secretary for getting him his first big break.

Pete Thamel of the New York Times writes that for the first time, college presidents are actually talking about a football playoff for the BCS and Fox Sports is hoping it will come true.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union writes in his blog that Buffalo Bills fans will get some extra NFL Draft coverage today thanks to Time Warner Cable.

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s Bob Wolfley says the NFL TV Draftniks were praising the Green Bay Packers’ pick of WR Jordy Nelson yesterday.

Charles Elmore of the Palm Beach Post says a faster paced Draft did not increase the drama for ESPN.

The Sportz Assassin over at the AOL Fanhouse blog says Chris Berman actually referenced one of his infamous YouTube videos during ESPN’s NFL Draft coverage.

Tim MacMahon of the Dallas Morning News wonders what outfit Keyshawn Johnson was wearing on the ESPN NFL Draft set yesterday.

Dan Nilson of the Flint (MI) Journal talks with the NFL Network’s Steve Mariucci who says he’s enjoying his TV work.

Jeffrey Flanagan of the Kansas City Star writes that the Chiefs Radio Network has hired a new sideline reporter.

Alex Weprin of Broadcasting & Cable has been blogging from the NFL Draft and he talked briefly with NFL Network Vice President Charles Coplin about programming and pickups.

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News blogs that there were plenty of good viewing choices for sports fans on Saturday including the NFL Draft. Multichannel also reports that Major League Soccer is teaming up with a Spanish network aimed at kids as part of an initiative to promote healthy lifestyles.

Ridge Mahoney of Soccer America writing for SI.com says ESPN2′s JP Dellacamera and John Harkes make a solid announcing pair for MLS games.

Ken Schott of the Schenectady Gazette writes in his blog that the Albany River Rats did not air on local radio yesterday due to a conflict with the Yankees that could not be worked out on time.

Alan Pergament of the Buffalo News writes that Buffalo and western New York pull the highest ratings for Versus in the NHL Playoffs.

Ray McNulty of the Sebastian (FL) Sun says NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman’s decision to put games on Versus was a colossial mistake.

Steven Hart of the Staten Island (NY) Advance is not happy with what he calls ESPN favoritism.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News talks with ESPN’s Kenny Mayne who’s on a national book tour promoting his tome, “An Incomplete and Inaccurate History of Sport“.

Brian Fazio of the Valdosta (GA) Daily Times says the Golf Channel will be in town later this week to televise a PGA Nationwide Tour stop.

And that will do it for now. Check back later. There might be an update or two today.

It’s Wednesday – Another Writer Leaves the Boston Globe and NBC Reups with the NHL

Let’s get to your links.

First off, David Scott of Boston Sports Media Watch reports that another writer from the Boston Globe is leaving practically decimating the paper’s sports department. David says NBA beat reporter Peter May is the next to accept the Globe’s buyout. And David wants you to know that he’ll be live blogging the press conference introducing Derek Kellogg as the new UMass basketball coach.

Next, Michael Hiestand of USA Today says both ESPN and the NFL Network will air four hour pregame shows leading into the NFL Draft on Saturday, and Michael writes that NBC has renewed its option to pick up the NHL for next season.

Newsday’s Neil Best writes about NBC Sports taking on the NHL for another season (scroll down). And Neil has a bit more about NBC reupping NHL in his blog. Neil also lists the schedule for the Rangers-Penguins. As a matter of fact, I have the entire NHL Conference Semifinals schedules right here.

Business First of Buffalo picks ups John Ourand’s story from the Sports Business Journal about NBC’s renewal with the NHL.

Paul J. Gough of the Hollywood Reporter has details of the NBC deal with the NHL.

Matthew Futterman from the Wall Street Journal says NBC will pick up Games Four, Five and Seven of the Stanley Cup Finals under the new deal. It currently televises the finals starting with Game 3.

Maury Brown of the Biz of Hockey has a quick blurb about the NBC renewal.

The Toronto Star picks up an Associated Press story about NBC Sports and the NHL.

The Toronto Globe and Mail’s William Houston also writes about NBC Sports and the NHL renewing their relationship. And Houston says CBC caught a break with getting the Philadelphia-Montreal series in its traditional Saturday night slot for two consecutive weeks plus it will get the other Eastern Conference semifinal series of the Rangers-Penguins.

The final word on the NBC Sports’ extension with the NHL will come from NBC Sports itself.

Subscribers to Sirius Satellite Radio will be able to listen to every pick of the NFL Draft through Sirius NFL Radio.

We’re approaching the 25th anniversary of one of the best rants in sports history. Former Cubs manager Lee Elia was a bit fed up after a losing streak and he went after the fans who showed up for day baseball at Wrigley Field which at the time did not have lights and he went into a tirade. Listen here. Great stuff.

Bob Wofley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel writes that ESPN’s Ron Jaworski now has a higher opinion of Green Bay QB Aaron Rodgers.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell says the New Orleans Hornets is the feel-good business story of the NBA season.

The Inside Track girls of the Boston Herald have an article on Heidi Watney, NESN’s newest hire for Red Sox games. Dan Lamonthe of the Mass Republican writes in his Red Sox Monster blog wonders if Heidi will take Red Sox Nation by storm.

Lisa Nicita of the Arizona Republic writes about the winner of FSN Arizona’s KidCaster promotion.

Gregory Broome of the Ocala (FL) Star-Banner says a local golf course will be featured on a Golf Channel reality show.

That’s it for now.

Some Monday Night Stuff

Ok, let’s give you some linkage as it appears the Montreal Canadiens will advance to the second round of the NHL playoffs.

Starting with Sports Illustrated’s Richard Deitsch, he has his weekly Media Circus column.

Bruce Allen of the Boston Sports Media Watch has news from the Comcast SportsNet New England people stating that Game 1 of the Celtics-Hawks series pulled in some great numbers on Sunday.

Joseph Santoliquito of MLB.com says John Marzano’s legacy will live on in his native South Philly. And MLB.com has a nice tribute site for Marzano will really died too soon.

The Sports Media Watch says the NHL playoffs saw increased ratings this weekend for NBC. And despite making anti-Mormon comments, ESPN has assigned Ric Bucher to the sidelines for Game 4 of the Houston-Utah series this Saturday. Whoa, check that! ESPN has re-assigned Bucher to Atlanta. Good move.

Clare Farnsworth of the Seattle Post Intelligencer goes over the NFL Network’s schedule for Draft Weekend.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union writes that WTMM has solved its problems over conflicts between the New York Yankees and the Albany River Rats.

Friend of Fang’s Bites Christopher Byrne of the Eye on Sports Media (and thanks for the link, Chris) wonders how CBS and ESPN will replace its aging sportscasting corps (and I would include Mike Patrick in the group that Chris mentions).

Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News says Day 1 of the NBA Playoffs scored big for ESPN.
Soccer-oriented Gol TV has obtained the rights to the Italy national soccer team according to Mike Reynolds.

Jeremy Speer of the Gaylord (MI) Herald Times feels E:60′s ambush interview of Miguel Tejada was a disservice.

Here’s an interesting press release from NBC Sports, it will air a one hour special this Sunday featuring footage from its archives of Hank Aaron, Muhammad Ali, Howard Cosell and Joe Namath. I think I’m going to record that.

Ed Bark of the Pegasus (TX) News writes that sports dominated the Dallas-Fort Worth TV landscape this past weekend.

The Hollywood Reporter says Golf Channel has a new vice president of programming.

The Orbitcast satellite radio blog says XM Satellite Radio will have Danica Patrick on as a guest on one of its channels on Tuesday (XM is one of her sponsors).

A bit light on the links this evening, but we’ll have more on Tuesday.

Monday Night Update

Let me give you some quick links this evening.

First, Jim Williams of the DC/Baltimore Examiner writes that Tony Kornheiser and Ron Jaworski will return to Monday Night Football this season.

Ken Schott of the Schenectady Gazette writes in his blog about the opening weekend of primetime games in the National Football League.

The Sports Media Watch says overall ratings for the NCAA Tournament are down, but CBS is still winning primetime nights. Michael David Smith of the AOL Sports Fanhouse blog says CBS needs a big Final Four to avoid this NCAA Tournament from being the lowest rated of all time. Benjamin Toff of the New York Times says the NCAA Tournament overrun of Davidson-Kansas gave CBS a primetime win on Sunday.

Tom Jones of the St. Petersburg Times writes in his Two Cents blog that CBS announcers went too far in their praise of North Carolina’s Tyler Hansbrough.

Linda Haugsted of Multichannel News writes that FSN Prime Ticket will produce 50 three-minute episodes commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ move to the West Coast.

Dave Albee of the Marin (CA) Independent Journal says the launch of Comcast SportsNet Bay Area was a success.

Bob Wolfley of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel says the radio rights for the Brewers are up for grabs.

Drew Olson of OnMilwaukee.com talks with Chicago Cubs TV announcer Len Kasper.

Greg Wyshynski of the AOL Sports Fanhouse blog warns puckheads that the NHL wants to experiment with placing virtual ads on the glass and dashers of televised network games.

Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe says NBC will probably decide this week if it will pick up the option for the NHL next season (scroll down).

The Boston Sports Media Watch has another candidate in the Media Approval Ratings.

Ben Larsen of Masslive.com says the Boston Celtics will be seen twice in HD in a National Amusements theater next month.

Ben Grossman of Broadcasting & Cable tells us that FSN will premiere a new series, Amazing Sports Stories, a 13 week run of inspirational and amazing, but true stories.

Steve Elling of CBSSports.com says Bubba Watson firing off an “F” bomb last week at the PGA Tour’s Zurich Classic of New Orleans tournament shows that TV might be getting too close to the action. If you didn’t see it on the Golf Channel, here it is:

That’s it. Good night.

A Few More Thursday Links for You

After seeing Georgetown-Villanova in the Big East Tournament earlier today, I’m now watching NC State-Miami (FL) in the ACC Tournament. I’m not watching the games off ESPN360, but from another site, but I’m not going to say which one. If you really need to know, you can try to e-mail me and if I’m in a decent mood, I’ll tell you, but overall, my lips are sealed. I don’t want this site to get shut down.

First, Phil Swann from the TV Predictions website tells us that DirecTV has announced its HD plans for the Mega March Madness NCAA Tournament PPV package.

Time Warner Cable has signed up to provide CBS’ March Madness Video on Demand highlights.

John Gartner of the Marketing Shift blog says CBS Sports.com has set the bar high for providing March Madness and for other networks to follow its lead for providing sports online.

Neil Best of Newsday has been busy blogging today. He breaks news that ESPN’s Rick Sutcliffe has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Second, he says MSG Network not only has MSG Plus, but a spillover channel that will cause confusion and has a bad name. Neil was monitoring WFAN’s Mike and the Mad Dog calling this afternoon’s Big East Tournament (I believe Awful Announcing is trying to get audio clips up on its site). Finally Neil says Steven A. Smith essentially confirmed what he wrote yesterday, that he may be leaving ESPN Radio to focus on being an NBA analyst for the network.

Here’s the ESPN story on Sutcliffe. I do hope that he recovers fully. It appears that doctors did catch it in time.

Two things from Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News. In his Farther Off the Wall blog, Tom has some excerpts of a Golf Channel interview with John Daly who made news this week for being disqualified from this week’s PGA Tour event and being fired by his swing coach. Tom also tells us that Fox Sports is selling t-shirts adorned with “Digger”, the cartoon character who tells us when Gopher Cam is being used during NASCAR races.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union has the breakdown of Sports Emmy Awards nominations by network. NBC Sports is out with a press release touting its 23 nominations.

The Sports Media Watch has some TV ratings news and notes.

Dan Gross from the Philadelphia Daily News says former Phillies pitcher and current talk show host Mitch “Wild Thing” Williams owned up to yelling at a referee during his daughter’s CYO basketball game (link courtesy of Laura Nachman).

Speaking of Laura Nachman, she says a movie on the late Phillies outfielder and broadcaster Richie Ashburn will premiere in April.

ESPN has set its plans in stone for the NCAA Women’s Tournament Selection Show for next Monday.

I don’t know whether to laugh or denounce this story, but Amie Shak of the Chicago Daily Herald writes that a lawsuit has been filed against the Big Ten by a local man alleging that the conference stole his idea for the Big Ten Network.

That’s it for now.

Sports Emmy Nominations Announced

The nominees for the 29th Sports Emmy Awards have been announced.

HBO leads the list with 31 nominations with 5 for Real Sports and 5 for Inside the NFL. ESPN is next with 27 (although I’m sure ESPN will have a press release stating that combined with ESPN2, ESPN Classic and ABC, it leads the nominations with 37) followed by NBC Sports with 23, Fox with 18 and CBS with 17.

Some interesting nominations, Jay Bilas gets a nomination for studio analyst award. I also find the Cris Carter nod in the same category a bit odd. Mike Emrick gets a nomination for best play-by-play along with usual suspects Al Michaels, Joe Buck and Jim Nantz. Versus is crowing to have Al Trautwig for best studio host for his work for the Tour de France. I still think Versus should put him on the NHL, but that’s me.

Here is the list of the major nominations. The entire list can be seen at emmyonline.org.

Outstanding LIVE SPORTS SPECIAL

2007 Open Championship – ABC/ESPN

AFC Championship Game – CBS

BCS on FOX: Tostitos Fiesta Bowl – FOX

NASCAR on FOX: Daytona 500 – FOX

NBC Wild Card Playoff: Dallas vs. Seattle – NBC

Super Bowl XLI – CBS

Outstanding LIVE SPORTS SERIES

ESPN Monday Night Football – ESPN

NASCAR on FOX – FOX

NBA on ESPN/ABC – ESPN/ABC

NBC Golf Tour – NBC

NFL on FOX – FOX

Sunday Night Football – NBC

Outstanding LIVE EVENT TURNAROUND

De La Hoya vs Mayweather Delay Broadcast – HBO

Inside the PGA TOUR – PGA Tour Productions

NFL Mic’d Up: Ravens vs. 49ers – NFL Network/NFL Films

Quest for the Cup – NASCAR Images

Tour de France – CBS

Outstanding EDITED SPORTS SPECIAL

De La Hoya/Mayweather 24/7 – HBO

Super Bowl 360 – ESPN/NFL Films

The 2007 Ford Ironman World Championship – NBC/Ironman Productions

The Natural: Major League Baseball Celebrates an Epic – ESPN2/MLB Productions

Unsettled Scores – ESPN2

Outstanding SPORTS DOCUMENTARY

Barbaro: A Nation’s Horse – NBC

Dale – NASCAR Images

Ghosts of Flatbush – HBO

Jonestown: The Game of Their Lives – ESPN

Triumph and Tragedy: The Ray Mancini Story – ESPN Classic

Outstanding EDITED SPORTS SERIES/Anthology

America’s Game: The Super Bowl Champions – NFL Network/NFL Films

Greatest High School Football Rivalries – Versus/NFL Films

Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Kansas City Chiefs – HBO/NFL Films

HBO Boxing: Countdown Shows – HBO

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO

Outstanding STUDIO SHOW ? WEEKLY

College Gameday – ESPN

Football Night in America – NBC

Inside the NBA – TNT

Inside the NFL – HBO

NFL on FOX: FOX NFL Sunday – FOX

Outstanding STUDIO SHOW ? DAILY

Inside the NBA – TNT

NASCAR Now – ESPN2

Pardon the Interruption – ESPN

SportsCenter – ESPN

Wimbledon Tonight – NBC

Outstanding SPORTS JOURNALISM

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO
Broken: NFL Disability Debate

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO
Dogfighting: Bred to Die

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO
Fading Hope: Sports in Iraq

Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel – HBO
Headgames: The NFL Concussion Crisis

Outstanding SHORT FEATURE

College Gameday – ESPN
Martel Van Zant

Inside the NFL – HBO
Coal Miner’s Sons: The Jones Brothers

Inside the NFL – HBO
Packers Fans Rebuild

MLB 2007: Never Miss a Game – ESPN
Never Too Early – MLB Productions

Sunday NFL Countdown – ESPN
Fear

Outstanding LONG FEATURE

E: 60 – ESPN
Ray of Hope

NBA TV Game Night – NBA TV
59th and Prairie: Dwyane Wade’s Journey ? NBA Entertainment
A Story told by Terrence Howard

NFL Films Presents: Finding Your Butkus – NFL Network/NFL Films

Outside the Lines – ESPN
Still Alive

The Super Bowl Today – CBS
Bill Walsh

The Super Bowl Today – CBS
Hines Ward

Outstanding OPEN / TEASE

107th U.S. Open Championship – NBC
The Open Returns to the Steel City

2007 Scripps National Spelling Bee – ABC
Championship Round

Barbaro: A Nation’s Horse – NBC

De La Hoya/Mayweather 24/7 – HBO
Episode 1

Indianapolis 500 – ABC
Tease: All Roads Lead to Indy

NBA Playoffs – TNT
Opening Night Tease

Super Bowl XLI – CBS
Super Bowl XLI Tease

Outstanding Sports Personality ? STUDIO HOST

Al Trautwig – Versus

Bob Costas – HBO/NBC

Bryant Gumbel – HBO

Ernie Johnson – TNT/TBS

James Brown – CBS

Outstanding Sports Personality ? PLAY?BY?PLAY

Al Michaels – NBC

Jim Lampley – HBO

Jim Nantz – CBS

Joe Buck – FOX

Marv Albert – TNT

Mike Emrick – NBC

Outstanding Sports Personality ? STUDIO ANALYST

Charles Barkley – TNT

Cris Carter – HBO

Cris Collinsworth – HBO/NBC

Jay Bilas – ESPN

Terry Bradshaw – FOX

Tom Jackson – ESPN

Outstanding Sports Personality ? SPORTS EVENT ANALYST

Doug Collins – TNT

Gary Danielson – CBS

John Madden – NBC

Phil Simms – CBS

Tim McCarver – FOX

Troy Aikman – FOX

The Dick Schaap WRITING AWARD

2007 ING New York City Marathon – NBC
Alec Baldwin Open – IMG Media

Costas Now – HBO
The Year of the Cheat

E: 60 – ESPN
A Dream Come True: Gunnar Esiason

Every Man A Tiger: The Eddie Robinson Story – NBC

Inside the NFL – HBO
Lewis Black: Miami Vice & Lonely in LA

Mayweather/Hatton 24/7 – HBO

The George Wensel TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

ESPN NASCAR – ABC/ESPN/ESPN2
Draft Track

Golf on CBS – CBS
Swing Vision

Jim Nantz Remembers Augusta ? The 1960 Masters – CBS
Color Restoration and Colorization

PGA TOUR and LPGA coverage – Golf Channel
AimPoint

Sport Science – FSN
Sport Science Laboratory – BASE Productions

There you have it. I omitted some technical, graphics and sound awards and if you’re interested in those, head to Emmyonline.com. The Sports Emmys will be awarded in April.

Thursday Update

Time to give you an afternoon update.

North Myrtle Beach, SC police say someone placed a noose the sign of the former home of Golf Channel host Kelly Tilghman.

In the wake of today’s announcement of CBS picking up four Mixed Martial Arts events, David Meltzer of Yahoo Sports says this move could change MMA one way or the other.

Tom Hoffarth of the Los Angeles Daily News has a tongue-in-cheek look in his blog at how the network would broadcast the sport, although his comparing MMA to the XFL is a bit harsh. And Hoffarth reports that long-time sports anchor Fred Roggin returns to radio as of next week.

John Ryan of the San Jose Mercury News writes in his Morning Buzz blog that former Sporting News Radio host Tony Bruno is back on KNBR, but for a limited run.

Jeffrey Flanagan of the Kansas City Star says long-time Royals announcer Fred White appears to be out of the mix for the second time.

Laura Nachman reports that Phillies second baseman Chase Utley will appear with a soap opera star in an ESPN promo for Fantasy Baseball.

A couple of things from CNBC’s Darren Rovell. First, Darren says Will Farrell’s new movie about the American Basketball Association has hit a marketing home run, but has also made a mistake as far as sports gear is concerned. And Darren says UFC’s signing of Budweiser as a sponsor is a big move for both companies.

Joe Favorito’s blog talks about the merger between the Indy Racing League and Champ Car and Tom Izzo’s statements about the Big Ten Network.

Speaking of Tom Izzo’s comments, Steve Grinczel of the Michigan Live website has the transcript of the interview that contained his criticism of the Big Ten Network.

Christopher Byrne of the Eye on Sports Media blog has an interesting photo feature on the huge production truck used at last night’s Florida-Georgia basketball game.

The Sports Media Watch has some news and notes including some early season college football matchups.

Rob Amen and Adam Brandolph of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review talk about the city’s sports radio talk show hosts who have followed in Myron Cope’s footsteps. Kevin Cope of the Tribune-Review says Cope’s personality came through on the radio. And the Tribune-Review lists some of Cope’s more popular expressions.

Multichannel News reports FSN’s Sports Science show returns for a second season in March.

That’s it for now.

Monday Evening Links

Let’s give you some more links this evening.

First, Newsday’s Neil Best notes in his blog that the WGC Accenture Match Play Championship on NBC with Tiger Woods outpaced the NBA game on ABC with Shaquille O’Neal on Sunday. Neil reports that NBC has passed on the Boston Bruins-New York Rangers tilt for its NHL flex game on March 9. And Neil criticizes ESPN’s Dick Vitale for getting distracted during the Tennessee-Memphis game on Saturday.

The Sports Media Watch says the rained out NASCAR race outpaced both golf and the NBA in the ratings. And the blog also notes that while the ratings for the Match Play Championships were up with Tiger winning, viewers may be getting tired of him. But Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News says Tiger’s appearance last week helped the Golf Channel reach its highest ratings ever.

Craig Dolch of the Palm Beach Post reports in his blog that Golf Channel has cut its early round coverage of this week’s Honda Classic from three hours a day to two.

Steve Cameron of the Merced (CA) Sun-Star says Golf Channel analyst Nick Faldo chose the WGC Accenture Match Play Championship to take a shot at his former sponsor, Nike.

Pete Dougherty of the Albany Times Union writes in his blog that CBS has made its wild card selections for its last weekend of regular season college basketball.

Bruce Allen of the Boston Sports Media Watch noticed that the last two Celtics road games on Comcast SportsNet were not shown in true HD as advertised.

Tim Lemke of the Washington Times writes that MASN will air 80 games of the Nationals and Baltimore Orioles in HD.

Jon Lafayette of TV Week says CBS will offer on demand highlights of the NCAA Tournament in HD. Mike Reynolds of Multichannel News writes that Comcast and Bresnan Communications are the first two cable providers to sign up to distribute the highlights.

Daisy Whitney from TV Week says HBO has launched a YouTube channel that will feature videos from Real Sports and HBO Boxing. The link to the channel is here.

John Consoli of Mediaweek reports that ESPN is producing a civil rights-themed basketball documentary.

ESPN has reached a new two year agreement with FSN to air a handful of Big 12 football games.

The Salt Lake Tribune reports the Alleged Worldwide Leader will air one Arena Football League game involving the Utah Blaze.

Brian Bennett and Brett Lawson of the Louisville Courier-Journal write that the University of Kentucky has turned down an offer from ESPN to play in-state rival Louisville on Labor Day.

Kyle Hightower of the Orlando Sentinel reports that the city will host two black college football games, one sponsored by ESPN, but the other is in desperate need of a sponsor.

Jamison Hensley and Edward Lee of the Baltimore Sun talk about former Ravens coach Brian Billick who appeared for three hours on a local radio station today.

Soccer fans will be able to watch all of FC Dallas’ games on TV through various English and Spanish outlets.

Former Philadelphia news anchor Alycia Lane has had her charges reduced stemming from an arrest in New York back in December.

I might have even another update later tonight. Keep checking here.

Quickie Wednesday Update

Time to give you a few links this evening.

Michael Lev of the Orange County Register says the end of HBO’s Inside the NFL is bittersweet. Justin Terranova of the New York Post writes in the NYP TV Sports blog that former hosts Nick Buoniconti and Len Dawson will appear on the final show. Newsday’s Neil Best says Buoniconti thanks NY Giants WR Amani Toomer for keeping the Miami Dolphins’ record intact.

John Consoli of Mediaweek writes that TNT is seeing increases in household and key demographic viewership for its coverage of the NBA.

Rick Kissel of Variety says Fox beat the competition last week by a ridiculous margin thanks to the Super Bowl.

Jim Williams of the DC/Baltimore Examiner says Fox and the NFL Network were the big winners coming out of Super Bowl Week.

ESPN will investigate gambling in men’s tennis on Outside the Lines on Sunday.

CBS Sports previews the PGA AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am tournament this weekend.

FSN gives you its week of programming including Best Damn Sports Show Period and college basketball.

The Kansas City Royals and FSN Kansas City have announced a 140 game television schedule.

Here’s the transcript of the NBC conference call previewing this Sunday’s NHL Game of the Week between Anaheim and Detroit.

CNBC’s Darren Rovell gives us a preview of his one hour special on Nike which airs next week, with a one-on-one interview with company president Charlie Denson.

If you live in South Jersey or in the Delaware Valley area, ESPN’s Sal Paolantonio will be at the Cherry Hill Public Library later this month to discuss his new book.

Mark Zeigler of the San Diego Union-Tribune reports that former ESPN soccer analyst Eric Wynalda has negotiated a buyout of his contract and is a free agent (scroll down).

Jon Lafayette of TV Week talks about a reality series from the Golf Channel which will show young players learning how to swing a golf club like Tiger Woods.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer tries to answer the question, why did Vince Cellini return to the Golf Channel?

That will do it. I’m getting ready for the last ever Inside the NFL on HBO.

Friday Megalinks Combined with Saturday Links

My fault that the Friday megalinks weren’t here yesterday. Lots of issues that I don’t need to get into, but I’ll give them to you today with your weekly Saturday links.

Let’s go:

Michael Hiestand of USA Today writes about Fox’s plans for its silly Red Carpet Super Bowl pregame show.

TV Week has the sports TV ratings for the week ending January 20.

Let’s go from East to West

East and Mid-Atlantic

Nancy Marrapese-Burrell of the Boston Globe writes about WBZ-TV being the “official Patriots station”.

Richard Sandomir of the New York Times tells us that Marv Albert is still learning from his mentor, the late Marty Glickman.

The New York Daily News’ Bob Raissman lectures the media on how to do their jobs when asking Bill Belichick questions during Super Bowl week.

Phil Mushnick of the New York Post says Boomer Esiason is going to have to make a choice soon. Mushnick’s arguments here really don’t water.

Newsday’s Neil Best says Giants fans who want Super Bowl tickets are finding the process frustrating.

Ray Frager of the Baltimore Sun says Orioles fans remain interested in the team despite the recent hard times.

Jim Williams of the DC/Baltimore Examiner says there’s a lot to watch this weekend even if there’s no football.

South

Doug Nye of The State says the Buick Invitational is a pick to click this weekend. And Nye says there was a lot of talk about South Carolina basketball coach Dave Odom’s retirement announcement this week.

Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald says WQAM beat rival 790 The Ticket in the most recent Arbitron ratings.

Dave Darling in the Orlando Sentinel says there’s going to be plenty of sports to watch before the Super Bowl.

David Barron of the Houston Chronicle says Fox will cover other things besides the Super Bowl on Super Bowl Sunday.

Barry Horn of the Dallas Morning News says former Dallas Mavericks announcer Allen Stone has found a new calling in life.

Ray Buck from the Fort Worth Star-Telegram writes that Fox Sports’ Terry Bradshaw and Jimmy Johnson share the same philosophy when it comes to the Super Bowl.

Jerry Garcia of the San Antonio Express-News asks are you ready for a lot of football?

Midwest

Judd Zulgad of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune says NBC hopes to bring figure skating back into the national spotlight.

Paul Christian of the Rochester Post-Bulletin writes that NBC is pulling out all of the stops for the U.S. Figure Skating Championships this weekend.

Bob Wolfley has Fox Sports’ Terry Bradshaw and Jimmy Johnson talking about their frozen experience in Green Bay last week.

Dan Caesar of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says KSDK hopes to resolve problems with hockey and golf conflicts when it airs the Cardinals during the spring and summer.

West

Scott D. Pierce in the Deseret Morning News writes that Versus will keep the NHL for the next three seasons.

Jay Posner of the San Diego Union-Tribune says he’s relieved not to hear about LaDanian Tomlinson this week. And here are the ratings in San Diego from last week.

John Maffei of the North County Times says CBS and the Golf Channel are showcasing a lot of the San Diego area thanks to the Buick Invitational.

Jim Carlisle of the Ventura County Star previews the U.S. Figure Skating Championships on NBC.

Christine Daniels writes in the Los Angeles Times about the technical glitch that marred Kelly Tilghman’s apology on the Golf Channel on Thursday.

The Los Angeles Daily News’ Tom Hoffarth says there’s a whole lot of apologizin’ going on. He has a follow up to the column in his Farther Off the Wall blog. And there’s his extensive media notes as well.

Canada

In the Toronto Star, Chris Zelkovich writes that the CBC is hoping to jump into the all-sports parade.

And William Houston writes in the Toronto Globe and Mail that CTV is charging a premium for Super Bowl spots.

I’ll have another post later. Keep it here.