ÿþ<rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"> <channel> <title>freep</title> <description>Latest Detroit sports news, Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, Michigan Wolverines, Detroit Lions, Detroit Pistons from the Detroit Free Press newspaper, football, basketball, hockey, Michigan State Spartans, up-to-the-minute sports news from Detroit incl</description> <link>http://www.freep.com</link> <language>en-us</language> <copyright>Copyright 2011, freep</copyright> <generator>SaxoTech Online</generator> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <lastBuildDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 10:15:21 -0400</lastBuildDate> <ttl>15</ttl> <atom:link href="http://www.freep.com/section/sports&amp;template=rss&amp;mime=xml" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <item> <title>Mick McCabe: With Dennis Norfleet afoot, Detroit King rolls on</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS1201/111050452/1048/sports</link> <description>Dennis Norfleet walked onto the Allen Park field Friday night and wanted to turn around, get back on the Detroit King bus and head home. OK, maybe he didn't, but you could understand if he did. "We haven't played well on a muddy field all year," Norfleet said.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:39:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS1201/111050452/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Walled Lake Central stuns Clarkston, 45-26</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050462/1048/sports</link> <description>The football playoffs are filled with enough emotion that Walled Lake Central didn't need any more in its visit to Clarkston. Yet it was an emotion-packed week as players and assistant coaches prepped for the big game without coach Bob Meyer.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:39:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050462/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Chris Perry-led defense keys Utica Eisenhower shutout over Romeo</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050460/1048/sports</link> <description>Utica Eisenhower's suffocating defense was more than enough to earn the Eagles their second consecutive district championship with a 13-0 win over Romeo on Friday. Eisenhower's defense allowed just 176 total yards, and Chris Perry played a big part in the effort.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:39:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050460/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Port Huron wins first district title, 27-21</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050454/1048/sports</link> <description>Montez Jackson couldn't hold back the tears. His fumble recovery with 1:15 left sealed Port Huron's first-ever district title in a 27-21 come-from-behind victory over Rochester Adams on Friday night at Memorial Stadium.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 03:39:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/HSS/111050454/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Olympics: Figure skater Ekaterina Shibutanis second in China</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050422/1048/sports</link> <description>Ice dancers Ekaterina Bobrova and Dmitri Soloviev scored an upset en route to winning the short dance Friday at Cup of China in Shanghai. The Russian national champions finished ahead of Maia and Alex Shibutani, the reigning world bronze medalists from the United States who train at the Arctic Figure Skating Club in Canton.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 02:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050422/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Kent State ekes out win after Central Michigan misses late FG</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050432/1048/sports</link> <description>Spencer Keith threw for 281 yards and three touchdowns to help Kent State hold off Central Michigan, 24-21, on Friday night. Central Michigan had a chance to force overtime, but David Harman's 28-yard field-goal attempt sailed wide left on the final play.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050432/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Hockey roundup: Caps continue reign over 'Canes; WMU downs U-M</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS05/111050376/1048/sports</link> <description>Jeff Halpern and Troy Brouwer scored 1:09 apart in the second period, and the Washington Capitals pulled away to beat the Carolina Hurricanes, 5-1, on Friday night. Cody Eakin had a goal and an assist for his first NHL points, Nicklas Backstrom added a goal and an assist, John Carlson scored on a late power play, and Michal Neuvirth made 24 saves.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:58:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS05/111050376/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NBA charity exhibition a possibility in Detroit</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS03/111050382/1048/sports</link> <description>NBA players have played exhibitions across the nation in an effort to create goodwill and raise money for charity while they are locked out by NBA owners during the labor impasse. Any chance of an event like that coming to Detroit if the lockout lingers?</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS03/111050382/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings' scoring drought lingers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS05/111050388/1048/sports</link> <description>Valtteri Filppula doesn't have the answer any more than his teammates do: How can they, as a group, and how can he, as a top-six forward, be in such a mess? Since starting 5-0, the Red Wings have tumbled down the standings and stumbled to score. They haven't won in two weeks, have one point during their past six games, all losses, and have six goals during that stretch.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS05/111050388/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Ticker (with video): Tigers' Justin Verlander will be on 'MLB 2K12' video game cover</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050424/1048/sports</link> <description>Hope there's no jinx associated with this one. Tigers ace Justin Verlander will appear on the cover of the "MLB 2K12" video game, an honor that came with being named player of the year in Thursday's Players Choice awards. "It's a dream come true," Verlander said of his cover appearance.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:55:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050424/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Justin Verlander argues case for starting pitcher winning MVP</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS02/111050384/1048/sports</link> <description>It's baseball's premier system of checks-and-balances -- the one player who can dominate a game, the starting pitcher, can pitch only once every five days.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS02/111050384/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>What to watch today: Red Wings try to snap losing streak</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050426/1048/sports</link> <description>Win or lose, you still have to support the home team. If you can't get to Joe Louis Arena tonight, check out the Red Wings-Ducks game on Fox Sports Detroit at 7. And, of course, it's "Hockey Night in Canada." The Bruins take on the Maple Leafs in Toronto at 7 on (CBC, Channel 9), and the red-hot Oilers host Phoenix at 10.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:53:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050426/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation + world: More controversy for Tiger Woods' ex-caddie</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050420/1048/sports</link> <description>GOLF Tiger Woods' former caddie used a racial slur to disparage his old boss during a caddies award roast in Shanghai, China.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:52:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050420/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Breeders' Cup: Females ride to forefront</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050412/1048/sports</link> <description>A filly and a mare could crash the male-dominated second day of the season-ending world championships, with Havre de Grace and Goldikova strong contenders in their Breeders' Cup races against the boys. Havre de Grace will face 11 males in the $5-million Breeders' Cup Classic today. The filly was listed at 3-1 on the morning line behind 5-2 favorite Uncle Mo.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:51:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS18/111050412/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Sorry, LSU-Alabama fans, no losers allowed in title game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050428/1048/sports</link> <description>It's a rite of college football about every five years. There must be a new "Game of the Century."</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:50:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050428/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Glenn Robinson III: Mitch McGary has a ton of energy</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050386/1048/sports</link> <description>Glenn Robinson III has been friends with Mitch McGary since they were in seventh and eighth grade. McGary grew up in Chesterton, Ind., and Robinson lives in St. John, Ind., 30 miles away. But even Robinson wasn't certain McGary would choose to play basketball at Michigan, which he announced Thursday. Both players will be part of U-M's 2012 recruiting class.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050386/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Spartans aim to snap back, Wolverines face test on road</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050436/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writers George Sipple and Mark Snyder break down five story lines to watch in today's football games:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050436/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Know the foe: Iowa Hawkeyes</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050364/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Mark Snyder looks at three story lines surrounding the Hawkeyes:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:24:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050364/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan 47, Wayne State 39: Hardaway leads way in low-scoring exhibition win over Wayne State</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050456/1048/sports</link> <description>It was a mild surprise when the PA announcer called sophomore Jon Horford's name during introductions Friday night in Michigan's game against Wayne State. That was about the only surprise as Michigan cruised to a ho-hum, 47-39 exhibition victory at Crisler Arena. Tim Hardaway Jr. scored 14 second-half points among his team-high 20.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:23:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050456/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Predictions for today's Michigan-Iowa game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050368/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writers Michael Rosenberg, Drew Sharp and Mark Snyder predict the outcome of today's game:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:23:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050368/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>U-M hot topics for Saturday's game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050366/1048/sports</link> <description>The week after: Iowa's temperament will be interesting coming off a loss to lowly Minnesota. As much as U-M players and coaches have chalked it up to a rivalry atmosphere, it was a crushing defeat. The Hawkeyes could be fired up or fizzled out. But they have an incentive: Winning their final four games wins the Legends Division.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050366/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State 80, Hillsdale 58: Travis Trice shows off his court savvy in Spartans' exhibition win</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050458/1048/sports</link> <description>Freshman point guard Travis Trice entered Michigan State's exhibition finale Friday night with little more than 5 minutes elapsed in the first half. About a minute later, Trice took a pass on the fast break, raced to the three-point line and hoisted up a questionable shot. He missed.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:20:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050458/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>U-M must deal with stadium noise</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050362/1048/sports</link> <description>With 70,000 fans packed into Iowa's Kinnick Stadium, there's a roar and enclosed feeling on the sideline. That's what the Michigan players and coaches will face at noon today when the No. 13 Wolverines visit the Hawkeyes.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:19:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111050362/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro + state: Spartan hockey player hospitalized after serious neck injury</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050418/1048/sports</link> <description>COLLEGE HOCKEY Michigan State freshman defenseman Branden Carney suffered a serious neck injury after he went headfirst into the dasher boards during hockey practice Thursday at Munn Ice Arena. He was transported to Sparrow Hospital for treatment, according to a news release. Carney, from Battle Creek, has feeling and movement in all extremities.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:18:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050418/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Predictions for today's Michigan State-Minnesota game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050352/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writers Michael Rosenberg, Drew Sharp and George Sipple predict the outcome of today's game:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:16:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050352/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>MSU hot topics for today's game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050360/1048/sports</link> <description>Dual-threat challenge: Can MSU contain another mobile quarterback? MarQueis Gray is much more of a threat to run than he is to pass. He has completed only 50.8% of his passes, but has completions of at least 43 yards to four different receivers.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:14:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050360/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Know the foe: Minnesota Golden Gophers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050348/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer George Sipple looks at three story lines surrounding the Golden Gophers:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:13:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050348/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State trails entire Big Ten in rushing yards</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050350/1048/sports</link> <description>The teams with the fewest rushing yards in the Big Ten will meet at noon today at Spartan Stadium.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:11:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050350/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mark Dantonio explains how every minute counts at halftime</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050380/1048/sports</link> <description>Halftime adjustments can have a big impact on the outcome of a game. Michigan State coach Mark Dantonio discussed during his weekly radio show how a lot of information has to be communicated in a short period of time. "At halftime, you have 15 minutes, but by the time you get in there you've got about 12," Dantonio said Thursday.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 01:10:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111050380/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Smashmouth Showdown: No. 1 LSU vs. No. 2 Alabama</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050434/1048/sports</link> <description>The LSU and Alabama showdown promises to be a throwback of old-school football. The top-ranked and barely tested Tigers, and No. 2 and mostly unchallenged Alabama are built on power runs and run-stuffing defenses at a time when spread offenses are en vogue and huddles are optional.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS08/111050434/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Top basketball recruit Gary Harris ready to visit Michigan State</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111104049/1048/sports</link> <description>This figures to be a hectic few days for Harris. After Friday's game, he was to travel to Michigan State. Then he plans to sit down with his family and make a decision; the early signing period begins Wednesday.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 21:10:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111104049/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Live blog today: Michigan State vs. Minnesota!</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111104042/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Shawn Windsor will live-blog today's Michigan State-Minnesota game from East Lansing. Feel free to discuss the action here.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 17:19:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS07/111104042/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Live blog today: Michigan vs. Iowa!</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111104039/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press special writer Nick Meyer will live-blog today's Michigan-Iowa game.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 17:12:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111105/SPORTS06/111104039/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Central Michigan falls to Kent State on missed FG as time expires</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS08/111105002/1048/sports</link> <description>With the blimp floating overhead, spotlights piercing the dark sky, a national television audience and former Ohio State coach Jim Tressel in attendance, Dix Stadium had the feel of a big-time college football game Friday night. And the ending fit the occasion.</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS08/111105002/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Friday night's prep football district final scores</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111105001/1048/sports</link> <description>Here are Friday night's MHSAA district final scores:</description> <pubDate>Sat, 05 Nov 2011 00:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111105001/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan opens exhibition season with 47-39 victory over Wayne State</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111104044/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan opened its exhibition season Friday night with a 47-39 victory over Wayne State at Crisler Arena.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 21:34:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111104044/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Blog: Second round of prep football playoffs</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111103052/1048/sports</link> <description>Join us every Friday night during the high school football playoffs for a live chat about all of the games. The chat within will run from about 7-11 tonight.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 20:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111103052/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Crusade swells against Nickelback for Lions game</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/ENT04/111104046/1048/sports</link> <description>Rolling into its second day, the Great Nickelback Debacle continued to generate heated Internet chatter and international headlines, as the original fan campaign against the rock band closed in on 35,000 signatures.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 19:34:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/ENT04/111104046/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State beats Hillsdale, 80-58, in exhibition</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104045/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State defeated Hillsdale College, 80-58, in an exhibition game Friday night at the Breslin Center.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 18:46:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104045/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>MSU hockey's Carney suffers serious neck injury</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104035/1048/sports</link> <description>Carney, 19, has feeling, movement and strength in all of his extremities.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 18:27:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104035/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Since the Red Wings last won ...</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111104038/1048/sports</link> <description>It has been a long time between victories for Hockeytown's finest, and the world has changed a bit in the meantime. (Though not as much as some people would have you believe.)</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:23:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111104038/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State vs. Minnesota preview capsule</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104033/1048/sports</link> <description>The Spartans' 2011 senior class is 32-15. The 2010 class holds the school record with 33 victories. ... Minnesota has come from behind in each of its last 11 victories.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:32:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111104033/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan vs. Iowa preview capsule</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111104032/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan's Brady Hoke was the head coach at Ball State when the Hawkeyes crushed the Cardinals, 56-0, in the 2005 season opener. ... Michigan leads the nation in red-zone defense.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 14:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111104032/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jamie Samuelsen's blog: Red Wings missing their middle class</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104029/1048/sports</link> <description>This isn't a desperate time. It's just concerning. The top players will play better. The younger players have to play better. We know that the first thing will happen. The question is whether the second thing will happen. If it doesn't, this concern will turn into full-fledged panic.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:58:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104029/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Babcock wants struggling Wings to 'focus on the process'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104027/1048/sports</link> <description>The Wings' coach paused on his way to his post-practice run to quickly address the media this afternoon. Mired in an 0-5-1 stretch after Thursday's 4-1 loss to Calgary, he didn't see what else he could say.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 13:27:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104027/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Son Of Swami picks all 64 district finals winners</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111040362/1048/sports</link> <description>The Son of Swami began the playoffs in grand fashion, correctly predicting what is believed to be a world's indoor/outdoor record of 107 of the 128 first-round games.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:16:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS/111040362/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mick McCabe: A breathtaking kick for Romeo's Danish import</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS1201/111040358/1048/sports</link> <description>For a brief moment last week, Rasmus Skovborg was imagining what the headline would read in the Copenhagen Post: "Exchange student smothered in football game." "I was kind of thinking that," Skovborg said. "That would not have been good."</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:16:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/HSS1201/111040358/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Long wait is over for Red Wings defenseman Mike Commodore</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104004/1048/sports</link> <description>Nearly a year had passed since Red Wings defenseman Mike Commodore last played an NHL game, a stretch that tested his patience but also brought him to Detroit.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 02:30:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111104004/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions defense shutting down opponents</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS01/111040368/1048/sports</link> <description>Move over, Justin Verlander. Looks like you're not the only one in Detroit who can dial up the high heat. The Lions' defense leads the NFL with 33 three-and-outs, and coach Jim Schwartz said that's tantamount to hurling unhittable stuff.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:55:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS01/111040368/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Loss of NBA love more devastating than missed games</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/COL08/111040366/1048/sports</link> <description>It's time for a confession. I had no idea that the Pistons' opener should have been Wednesday night at the Palace. The actual loss of games is one of those benchmarks to gauge the public pulse. You would think any deviation from normality would resonate strongly, but the absence of the Pistons from the local sports dialogue is anything but devastating.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:55:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/COL08/111040366/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Justin Verlander: Tigers can contend for title in '12</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS02/111040374/1048/sports</link> <description>On the plane ride home from their playoff elimination in Texas, several Tigers players chatted with one another.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:53:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS02/111040374/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Finally healthy, Troy Woolfolk steps up as a safety</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111040421/1048/sports</link> <description>For much of this season, Troy Woolfolk has been battling his body. He suffered a sprained an ankle in the opener and struggled through it for weeks. He suffered a broke his hand and played in a hard cast for much of the early season. In the Notre Dame game, he was kicked in the face, a cleat slicing his nose. With those injuries behind him, he finally is comfortable on the field.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:52:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111040421/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mike Brudenell: Covering my part of Chevy's 100-year run</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111040401/1048/sports</link> <description>An old friend who turned 100 on Thursday is purring right along despite a few health scares in recent years. Chevrolet celebrated 100 years of automobile manufacturing. The Detroit icon was founded by Swiss racer Louis Chevrolet and partner William Durant in 1911, the year Ray Harroun won the first Indy 500 in the yellow and black Marmon Wasp.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111040401/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro + state: Brad Keselowski Racing gains 2 sponsors</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040413/1048/sports</link> <description>AUTO RACING Brad Keselowski Racing (BKR) will be sponsored by two southeast Michigan companies throughout the 2012 NASCAR Camping World Trucks season.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040413/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>What to watch today: Streaming high school football games online</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040410/1048/sports</link> <description>Hey, you don't even need a television for this one. Four high school football playoff games will be streamed live at 7 p.m. at foxsportsdetroit.com: Grand Rapids Catholic Central at Zeeland West (Division 4); Pontiac Notre Dame Prep at Marine City (Division 4); Leslie at Grass Lake (Division 6) and Saranac at Pewamo-Westphalia (Division 7).</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040410/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation + world: NBA owners, players to meet Saturday</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040415/1048/sports</link> <description>NBA A union official says NBA owners and players will resume negotiations Saturday to try to end the labor lockout.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:45:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040415/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Daily list: Bands with fitting football names</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040404/1048/sports</link> <description>Speaking of NFL halftime acts, we look at bands who certainly have fitting names to play at football games. BIG AND RICH &gt;&gt; The name of the country group perfectly describes a lot of NFL players who are just that -- big and rich. NICKELBACK</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:45:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS18/111040404/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jack Roush's NASCAR diary: 'We'll let our cars do the talking on the track'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111040408/1048/sports</link> <description>The NASCAR Chase for the Championship heads to high-speed Texas Motor Speedway in Ft. Worth this weekend with the eighth race of stock car's playoff series slated for Sunday....</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:44:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111040408/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Baseball notes: Matty, one of Alou brothers, dies at 72</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS02/111040403/1048/sports</link> <description>Matty Alou, once part of an all-Alou outfield for the San Francisco Giants with brothers Felipe and Jesus, died Thursday in his native Dominican Republic. He was 72. He died of diabetes complications, according to his former Dominican team, Leones del Escogido. The Giants also confirmed his death and said Alou had been sick for several years with a variety of health issues.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS02/111040403/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Trey Burke, Stu Douglass are good options at point guard for U-M</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111040376/1048/sports</link> <description>Though he's working with a small sample, Michigan coach John Beilein has been impressed with the point guard play. Trying to fill the gaping hole left by Darius Morris' off-season departure, Beilein is studying point guards Trey Burke, a freshman, and senior Stu Douglass, who has made himself into a point guard with his versatility.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS06/111040376/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings box score from Thursday night's loss</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040443/1048/sports</link> <description>First period Calgary, Stempniak 2 (Babchuk), 15:53. 1st: Sarich, Cal (hooking), 7:52;Commodore, Det (holding), 11:15. Second period Calgary, Iginla 3 (Glencross, Jokinen), 4:37 (pp). Detroit, Cleary 1 (Kronwall, White), 8:11 (pp).</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:22:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040443/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NHL roundup: Rangers triumph in shoot-out</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040364/1048/sports</link> <description>Marian Gaborik made up for a frustrating night by scoring in the last round of a shoot-out to give the New York Rangers a 2-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday night. Gaborik gave goalie Jonas Hiller a head fake, then a little shimmy before tucking the puck past him. The Rangers have earned points in six of eight games (5-2-1).</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040364/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings notes and quotes from Thursday night's loss</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040446/1048/sports</link> <description>Here are notes and quotes from the Red Wings' 4-1 loss to the Calgary Flames Thursday night at Joe Louis Arena:</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040446/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings stars can't shake scoring slumps</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040378/1048/sports</link> <description>The Red Wings talked extensively about getting back to basics before losing, 4-1, on Thursday night at Joe Louis Arena to Calgary, the latest in a string of one-goal performances. They talked about it again afterward, as neither Henrik Zetterberg nor Pavel Datsyuk, the team's superstar forwards, had a shot on net after 40 minutes and only combined for three in the third period.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:19:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040378/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Calgary 4, Detroit 1: Wings' deep-sixed as losing skid rises</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040444/1048/sports</link> <description>Shortly after the Red Wings were booed off the Joe Louis Arena ice following a sixth straight loss, Danny Cleary called the situation "a huge embarrassment." Niklas Kronwall said "it can't get much worse."</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:19:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS05/111040444/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Your Mike: Detroit Lions cartoon caption contest winner!</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/BLOG24/111104002/1048/sports</link> <description>Detroit Lions fans! Check out the winning entry and finalists!</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:16:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/BLOG24/111104002/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Faith, family come first for MSU QB Cousins</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111040389/1048/sports</link> <description>He wanted to slip in quietly, like old times, but that was impossible. Word was out -- Kirk Cousins is in the building! -- and before he found a vacant seat in Mark Hiskes' sixth-hour AP English class, Cousins already had signed a handful of autographs and smiled for students capturing his photo on their cell phones.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:12:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111040389/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>ESPN analyst Todd McShay sees Cousins as a backup in NFL</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111040372/1048/sports</link> <description>ESPN NFL draft analyst Todd McShay said he hasn't seen a lot of improvement from Michigan State senior quarterback Kirk Cousins this season, but McShay projects Cousins as a mid-round pick.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:11:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS07/111040372/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NHRA diary: Shooting for a top-5 finish while helping teammate John Force</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111104003/1048/sports</link> <description>It's just not possible for Las Vegas to be boring. We found that out again this week.</description> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Nov 2011 01:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111104/SPORTS16/111104003/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Recruiting: Spartans land 3-star CB Ezra Robinson </title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103060/1048/sports</link> <description>Head coach Mark Dantonio and the Michigan State Spartans picked up their 15th player in the class of 2012 when cornerback Ezra Robinson of Sarasota Booker High School called and committed to them on Thursday night. Robinson informed SpartanMag.com that he was able to reach the staff after practice and they were excited that he had decided to become part of the class of 2012.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 23:29:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103060/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Verlander is players' choice for player of the year -- again</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111103056/1048/sports</link> <description>Tonight, Verlander was named the player of the year in the Players Choice awards. The honor is voted on by big-league players and presented by the Players Association.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:01:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111103056/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mitch McGary commits to Michigan basketball; wants national title</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103046/1048/sports</link> <description>The decision had a thunderous impact for a program that hasn't had many elite recruits in recent years. The last national top 10 player was Ann Arbor's LaVell Blanchard in 1999 and, before that, No. 1 overall Jerod Ward from Mississippi in 1994.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 20:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103046/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Petition protests Nickelback as Lions' Thanksgiving Day game performer</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/ENT04/111103045/1048/sports</link> <description>There was some irony in today's protest of Nickelback as halftime performer at the Detroit Lions' Thanksgiving Day game: The Motor City is actually one of the strongest markets for the band, which was one of the past decade's best-selling acts.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:14:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/ENT04/111103045/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>F.H. Harrison's Ojemudia will miss first half because of violation</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111103042/1048/sports</link> <description>Harrison officials learned of the violation Monday, after it was reported to the Michigan High School Athletic Association -- three months after the violation occurred.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:02:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111103042/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>DeWitt's Wieber siblings rule their respective worlds</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111030432/1048/sports</link> <description>Coach Rob Zimmerman does not want to think where his DeWitt football team would be today if it were not for senior quarterback Ryan Wieber.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:27:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111030432/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Warren Sapp thinks Lions' Suh should 'shut up'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111103030/1048/sports</link> <description>&amp;quot;Why are you prancing all the way to the commissioner's office and you almost ripped somebody's helmet off?&amp;quot; Sapp said of Suh. &amp;quot;Are you kidding me? You don't know that's against the rules? That's a wasted trip.&amp;quot;</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 13:20:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111103030/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan football still 'in transition,' Brady Hoke says</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103020/1048/sports</link> <description>Speaking on the radio today, Hoke remarked on his 53rd birthday. "It moves on another day, another year." Any presents coming? "Probably not; don't need anything."</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 09:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103020/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>MSU's next opponent: Gophers' secret weapon -- onside kick</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103006/1048/sports</link> <description>The extra possession it delivered, the momentum it provided, the victory over Iowa it ultimately helped earn - that onside kick the Minnesota Gophers pulled off on Saturday was an enormous jackpot for a football program that needed a boost.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 04:01:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103006/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Forbes: Lions owner William Clay Ford is NFL's worst</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111103005/1048/sports</link> <description>Because they would know things like this, Forbes magazine took a stab at ranking the 10 best and 10 worst owners in the NFL over that last five years.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:56:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111103005/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Rich Rodriguez finds irony in West Virginia-Big East lawsuit (with video)</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103004/1048/sports</link> <description>Did you hear that West Virginia wants out of the Big East and is willing to sue its way out of the conference?</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:38:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111103004/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Fishing report</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030497/1048/sports</link> <description>Steelhead action continues to build in the river systems, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources says.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 02:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030497/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Ask Free Press outdoors writer Eric Sharp</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030493/1048/sports</link> <description>How long do whitetail deer live? -- Thomas Haines, Coleman.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030493/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Eric Sharp: Declining industry affects conditions for deer in Michigan</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030503/1048/sports</link> <description>How many people who hunt the northern Lower Peninsula and the Upper Peninsula realize that the economic recession will make it harder for them to put venison in the freezer during Nov. 15-30 firearms deer season?</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030503/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tip of the week: Paint makes arrows easier to spot</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030505/1048/sports</link> <description>Finding an arrow in the grass or the woods after shooting it at a deer can make finding that proverbial needle in the haystack look easy.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS10/111030505/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NFL roundup: Officials to watch for concussions</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030487/1048/sports</link> <description>The NFL has told its game officials to watch closely for concussion symptoms in players.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:55:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030487/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Daily list: Broadway shows Ndamukong Suh missed</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030495/1048/sports</link> <description>Lions tackle Ndamukong Suh was in New York on Tuesday. Too bad he didn't have time to take in a Broadway play because he could have seen:</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030495/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Cliff Avril's success could pay off</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030531/1048/sports</link> <description>Cliff Avril told his agent, Brian Mackler, not to bother him with contract talks during the season. So far, that has been easy to do. Eight games into what's on pace to be the best year of Avril's career, the Lions have not started serious negotiations with him on a new long-term deal.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:53:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111030531/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings search for confidence, goals</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS05/111030513/1048/sports</link> <description>Much to everyone's relief, defenseman Niklas Kronwall will be available to play tonight, when the Red Wings host the Flames, after he got dinged up in the latest loss.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:46:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS05/111030513/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Boys soccer: Parks' goal Canton in state final</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111030533/1048/sports</link> <description>Canton had numerous chances to put previously undefeated Warren De La Salle in a hole early in the Division 1 soccer semifinal Wednesday night at Farmington High, but it couldn't find the mark against goalie Nick Orlando.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:44:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/HSS/111030533/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>MSU's next opponent: Minn. QB has speed, size</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111030485/1048/sports</link> <description>Minnesota junior MarQueis Gray is different from the other dual-threat quarterbacks Michigan State has prepared for in recent weeks. Gray is 6-feet-4 and 240 pounds.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111030485/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Bubba Smith memorabilia up for auction</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111030517/1048/sports</link> <description>A 2007 Bronko Nagurski Legends Award, NFL Pro Bowl Golden Helmet Award plaques and a couple of signed passports are parts of the Bubba Smith estate for sale in an online auction now through Tuesday.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:31:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111030517/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan's Jeremy Gallon rises above his short stature</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111030488/1048/sports</link> <description>Even film cannot do Jeremy Gallon justice. The Michigan sophomore receiver is listed at 5-feet-8, so the last pass one expects he could handle would be a jump ball. Yet there he is, reaching above the cornerbacks to snag one of those passes.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111030488/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Hoke: Kicker Gibbons shows 'good mind-set, good leg'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111030523/1048/sports</link> <description>With two field goals against Purdue last week, Michigan kicker Brendan Gibbons moved to 6-for-8 on the season -- two more kicks converted than last season's team total (4-for-14). Coach Brady Hoke has seen his confidence grow.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:17:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS06/111030523/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings' Mike Babcock shakes up lines</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS05/111030525/1048/sports</link> <description>Red Wings coach Mike Babcock cited the old insanity definition Wednesday when discussing his latest line combinations.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:10:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS05/111030525/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Expect Wings to get back to winning</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/COL08/111030509/1048/sports</link> <description>The Red Wings will soon remember that the objective of hockey is to turn on that little red lamp above the other guy's goal as often as possible.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 01:06:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/COL08/111030509/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Recruiting: MSU looking for final pieces for 2012</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103002/1048/sports</link> <description>MSU is focused on about a dozen recruits, two of which have plenty of interest in MSU and will likely be scheduling official visits soon.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS07/111103002/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation &amp; world: NASCAR's Jeremy Mayfield arrested for drug possession</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030470/1048/sports</link> <description>Former NASCAR driver Jeremy Mayfield, barred from the association since 2009 for a failed drug test, was arrested at his western North Carolina home and charged with possession of methamphetamine. Detectives said roughly $100,000 worth of items that belonged to businesses in that county also were found at Mayfield's home, and they plan to charge him with possession of stolen goods.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030470/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro &amp; state: Reggie Hamilton, Ray McCallum receive preseason honor</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030483/1048/sports</link> <description>Oakland's Reggie Hamilton and Detroit Mercy's Ray McCallum were named to the Lou Henson Preseason All-America Team, announced by CollegeInsider.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030483/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Football on TV this week</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030490/1048/sports</link> <description>8 p.m. Tulsa at UCF. 8:00 Florida St. at Boston College. 8 p.m. Central Michigan at Kent St. 9:00 Southern Cal at Colorado.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030490/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>What to watch today: U-M hoops recruit makes his decision</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030507/1048/sports</link> <description>At long last, we'll know where Mitch McGary will go to school.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS18/111030507/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Former Pistons assistant Pat Sullivan still trying to land coaching gig</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS03/111030519/1048/sports</link> <description>When new Pistons coach Lawrence Frank made his final decision on his coaching staff, Pat Sullivan's career was put in limbo.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS03/111030519/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Baseball notes: Cubs fire Mike Quade</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111030501/1048/sports</link> <description>Chicago Cubs manager Mike Quade was fired Wednesday in the first major move by Theo Epstein since becoming the team's president of baseball operations.</description> <pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111030501/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jamie Samuelsen's blog: A few minor moves could put Tigers over the top</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111102072/1048/sports</link> <description>Based on who the Tigers have coming back and based on who the Tigers used in October, there are moves that Dave Dombrowski should target going forward.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:40:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS02/111102072/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jamie Samuelsen's blog: Please, Ndamukong Suh, don't change how you play</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111102070/1048/sports</link> <description>The greatest defensive players in NFL history have played with the exact same anger that Suh plays with. Sometimes they crossed the line, sometimes they toed the line, but they were always near it.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:40:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111103/SPORTS01/111102070/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nickelback to play at Lions Thanksgiving game; petition for change already started</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102073/1048/sports</link> <description>Nickelback will reportedly play the halftime show during the Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions game on Thanksgiving Day at Ford Field</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 23:42:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102073/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>College hoops roundup: Oakland, CMU, WMU roll in exhibitions</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/111102069/1048/sports</link> <description>Laval Lucas-Perry led the Grizzlies in his debut with 15 points off the bench in OU's romp in an exhibition tonight in Rochester.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 22:29:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/111102069/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers' Alex Avila wins Silver Slugger award at catcher</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111102060/1048/sports</link> <description>One day after he didn't win the Gold Glove, Avila was named the best-hitting catcher in the American League this season.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 20:43:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111102060/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Oliver Miller pleads guilty to pistol whipping</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111102058/1048/sports</link> <description>The former Detroit Piston has pleaded guilty to assaulting his girlfriend's brother after a cookout in Maryland.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111102058/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Ohio State RB charged with assault</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/111102057/1048/sports</link> <description>Fourth-string Ohio State tailback Jaamal Berry has been charged with misdemeanor assault and disorderly conduct after police say he punched a man in the face and then bragged about it.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:28:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/111102057/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Suh expounds on NFL meeting; 'Nobody in this world agrees on everything'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102053/1048/sports</link> <description>The Lions defensive tackle did not say directly that the impetus for calling Tuesday's meeting was his sense of a double standard being applied by officials - but he sure hinted at it.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 17:12:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102053/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Pilot in Russian plane crash that killed hockey team accidentally applied brakes during takeoff</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS07/111102008/1048/sports</link> <description>Among those killed were three former Red Wings: assistant coach Brad McCrimmon, defenseman Ruslan Salei and goaltending prospect Stefan Liv.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:41:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS07/111102008/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Coroner: Weight-loss pills contributed to Bubba Smith's death</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102045/1048/sports</link> <description>Bubba Smith, the Michigan State legend-turned-actor, died of acute drug intoxication and other conditions, the Los Angeles County coroner's office said today.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:07:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102045/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Wings' Kronwall is OK; Datsyuk, Zetterberg split up</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111102032/1048/sports</link> <description>Finally, Gustav Nyquist, who just made his NHL debut against Minnesota, was returned to the minors; Babcock reasoned he'd rather have Nyquist back when things are going well.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111102032/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>MSU coach: LBs Chris Norman, Steve Gardiner expected to play vs. Minnesota</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102039/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State linebackers coach Mike Tressel said today he expects to have Chris Norman (shoulder) and Steve Gardiner (stinger) back Saturday</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:34:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102039/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Brady Hoke unconcerned about latest player departure</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102036/1048/sports</link> <description>"Happens in football," he said today about safety Carvin Johnson, the sixth player to leave the program since the start of the season.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 13:13:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102036/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Matthew Stafford sits out Lions' final practice before bye</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102029/1048/sports</link> <description>Rookie defensive tackle Nick Fairley, who sat out the Broncos game after aggravating his surgically repaired foot, was back at practice today.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111102029/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan's state park system named best in the country</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS06/111102025/1048/sports</link> <description>The state Department of Natural Resources announced that it was notified today about the 2011 National Recreation and Park Association's Gold Medal for the top state park system. Michigan was named one of four finalists for the award in May.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:04:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS06/111102025/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings-Bruins game part of NHL's goal to penetrate Thanksgiving weekend</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111102023/1048/sports</link> <description>Discover and the NHL also will debut a co-sponsored float during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on NBC as part of promotion for the game.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 10:32:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111102023/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Top recruit McGary blogs what he likes about U-M basketball</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102018/1048/sports</link> <description>The Brewster Academy (N.H.) big man, ESPN's top-ranked power forward in the class of 2012, is down to Michigan, Duke and Florida and will make his announcement on ESPNU's "Recruiting Nation" show at 5 p.m.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 09:38:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102018/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NBA owner's plans for west Michigan resort squashed for now</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS06/111102015/1048/sports</link> <description>A federal judge has rejected a proposed agreement that would have allowed a co-owner of the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder to build a resort along Lake Michigan.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 08:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/NEWS06/111102015/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Gophers get production from under-the-radar players</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102005/1048/sports</link> <description>Rebuilding a struggling football program takes time, energy and effort - and some overachievement. Minnesota coach Jerry Kill has been spreading that message in his first year on the job, and he finally saw the Gophers give a performance beyond their experience and their record.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 03:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111102005/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Iowa tries to regain composure after tough loss to Minnesota</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102004/1048/sports</link> <description>To think that Iowa could win the Big Ten title in 2011 was always a bit of a stretch given all the talent the Hawkeyes lost to the NFL last spring. But losing to Minnesota - again?</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 03:37:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111102004/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>CB Eric Wright settling in, wants to stay with Lions</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020426/1048/sports</link> <description>Three months after signing a one-year deal with the Lions in the post-lockout free-agent market, Eric Wright might have found a home. Wright, who has two interceptions in the Lions' first eight games, surpassing his 2010 total with the Browns, said he'd be open to signing a long-term deal with the Lions before he becomes a free agent again in March.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020426/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings' Gustav Nyquist debuts on 2nd line with Johan Franzen, Todd Bertuzzi</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020436/1048/sports</link> <description>What stood out about Gustav Nyquist during training camp was how smart he played. Physical strength can be gained, and stickhandling can be worked on, but good hockey sense is innate.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020436/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Minnesota 2, Detroit 1 (OT): Lidstrom questions key no-call </title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020446/1048/sports</link> <description>Not one to speak harshly, Nicklas Lidstrom was terse and to the point after his team lost Tuesday night. Mikko Koivu smacked Niklas Kronwall up high, knocking his helmet back and sending Kronwall to the ice as Koivu got the puck to Devin Setoguchi for the winner.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020446/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>New Mott Children's hospital a winner thanks to Lloyd Carr, Michigan football</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020412/1048/sports</link> <description>The Michigan football program has a special connection to the new Mott Children's Hospital. On a tour Tuesday of the new $750-million facility opening this month on the Ann Arbor campus, that connection was evident almost immediately upon walking in the door.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020412/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Iowa's all in the family for Michigan's Greg Mattison</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020413/1048/sports</link> <description>Greg Mattison has spent lots of time at Iowa's Kinnick Stadium. But Saturday's game as Michigan's defensive coordinator will be a little bit different than the past few times. "I've got a number of memories being there as a fan and as a father," Mattison said Tuesday of when his son Bryan played defensive line for Iowa in 2003-07.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020413/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>7-1 Wolverines will be tested on road</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020434/1048/sports</link> <description>With games at Iowa on Saturday and at Illinois on Nov. 12, Michigan coach Brady Hoke said Tuesday he sees the importance of winning big road games as a major building block in the program's progress.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:46:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020434/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>These Spartans know how to win football games in November</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111020387/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State is 9-3 in November during Mark Dantonio's four seasons as coach. The No. 15 Spartans (6-2, 3-1 Big Ten) will try to bounce back from a 24-3 loss at Nebraska when they host Minnesota on Saturday. The three points scored by MSU in Saturday's loss were the fewest in the Dantonio era.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:46:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111020387/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Calvin Johnson on torrid TD pace</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020383/1048/sports</link> <description>Calvin Johnson is good. Real good. But this season, the Lions' star receiver has been better than ever. In fact, Johnson is off to one of the best all-time starts among NFL receivers.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:42:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020383/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michael Rosenberg: Tigers can't afford free-agent spending spree</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/COL22/111020399/1048/sports</link> <description>Carlos Guillen ($13-million salary in 2011), Magglio Ordo&amp;ntilde;ez ($10 million) and Brad Penny ($3 million) all come off the books, but that savings won't be enough to enable the Tigers to go after a high-profile free agent.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:38:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/COL22/111020399/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Spartans' Tom Izzo works guard Travis Trice to sharpen him for the point</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111020428/1048/sports</link> <description>While Keith Appling and Draymond Green continue to seek a balance between scoring and setting up teammates, freshman point guard Travis Trice is just trying to remind himself where he needs to be on the court.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:37:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS07/111020428/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NHL roundup: Sean Avery unclaimed, stays with Rangers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020363/1048/sports</link> <description>Sean Avery cleared re-entry waivers on Tuesday and might be back in the New York Rangers' lineup Thursday night.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:29:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020363/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Around the horn: Jonathan Papelbon, David Ortiz might leave Red Sox</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111020357/1048/sports</link> <description>Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington said he expects his premier free agents, designated hitter David Ortiz and right-handed closer Jonathan Papelbon, to reach free agency. All teams have until 12:01 a.m. Thursday to negotiate exclusively with their players before they hit the open market.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:28:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111020357/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Pistons' Charlie Villanueva wants to play, but says union will 'stick together'</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020395/1048/sports</link> <description>Lake Orion students have become familiar with several local celebrities the past two weeks. Members of the Pistons -- including power forward Charlie Villanueva -- started playing pickup games at the high school located a few miles up the road from the Palace, where the team was scheduled to start a new NBA season tonight against the Indiana Pacers.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:23:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020395/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers Austin Jackson, Alex Avila shut out of AL Gold Gloves</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111020432/1048/sports</link> <description>In one vote announced Tuesday, Austin Jackson of the Tigers was selected as this season's best defensive centerfielder in the major leagues. The Fielding Bible put him on its 2011 all-defensive team. In another vote Tuesday, Jackson wasn't selected as the best defensive centerfielder in the American League.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:14:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS02/111020432/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation+world: Big East to invite 6 teams to join conference</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS18/111020421/1048/sports</link> <description>The Big East will invite Boise State, Navy and Air Force for football only and SMU, Houston and Central Florida for all sports in upcoming days, the Associated Press reported Tuesday, citing an anonymous source.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:12:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS18/111020421/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NFL roundup: New stadium for Vikings hits snag</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020389/1048/sports</link> <description>Gov. Mark Dayton ruled out a tax increase as a way to help pay for a new Minnesota Vikings stadium on Tuesday, blowing a $350-million hole in the team's plan to build a $1.1-billion home in the suburbs north of the Twin Cities.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 01:11:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS01/111020389/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro+state: Suspended defenseman Jon Merrill can practice with Wolverines hockey team</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020419/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan coach Red Berenson announced that sophomore defenseman Jon Merrill remains suspended but can start practicing with the team.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:58:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020419/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>A Western Michigan football first on Sports Illustrated</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/311020002/1048/sports</link> <description>Greg Jennings, one of seven Green Bay Packers on the cover of this week's Sports Illustrated, is the first Western Michigan alumnus to be so honored.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS08/311020002/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Recruiting: After 3 weeks away from Ann Arbor, Wolverines host visiting prospects</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111101067/1048/sports</link> <description>The Wolverines' three-week stretch without a home game came to an end last weekend, with a homecoming victory against Purdue. That game served as an opportunity for the Wolverines to welcome a handful of recruits to campus.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111101067/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Basketball recruit Mitch McGary to pick Wolverines?</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020397/1048/sports</link> <description>Mitch McGary, a five-star basketball prospect from New Hampshire, will announce his college choice live on ESPNU around 5 p.m. Thursday.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS06/111020397/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>What to watch today: NHL Eastern Conference showdown</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020424/1048/sports</link> <description>If the Red Wings really are going to join the Eastern Conference next season, you'd better start boning up on their new rivals. Two of the better teams in the East square off tonight as Buffalo hosts Philadelphia at 7:30 on Versus.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:44:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020424/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings notes and quotes from Tuesday's loss</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020448/1048/sports</link> <description>The Wings took a 1-0 lead when they scored a second after a power play expired. Pavel Datsyuk skated the puck to the goal line before firing through traffic and finding Henrik Zetterberg inside the right circle. Nicklas Lidstrom tipped Zetterberg's shot. The Wings outshot the Wild, 12-4, in the opening period.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:43:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS05/111020448/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>If not for NBA lockout, Pistons would open season tonight at Palace</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020391/1048/sports</link> <description>New Pistons coach Lawrence Frank and director of player personnel George David will be busy making plans and hunting for prospects today. But tonight, the Palace will be dark.</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020391/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>A look inside the NBA lockout</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020393/1048/sports</link> <description>The NBA lockout has reached Day 125 as the NBA and NBA Players Association continue to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. Free Press sports writer Vince Ellis looks at some of the key questions: Question: What is the main sticking point?</description> <pubDate>Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111102/SPORTS03/111020393/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers shut out in Gold Glove balloting</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101072/1048/sports</link> <description>Tigers catcher Alex Avila and centerfielder Austin Jackson were finalists in their positions, but lost out to Baltimore's Matt Wieters and Boston's Jacoby Ellsbury, respectively.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 23:31:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101072/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Minnesota 2, Detroit 1 (OT): Wild extends Wings' winless streak to 5</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS05/111101030/1048/sports</link> <description>The Red Wings gained a point tonight but couldn't overcome seven penalties against the Minnesota Wild.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 22:34:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS05/111101030/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Carvin Johnson leaves U-M football team</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101066/1048/sports</link> <description>Johnson had played in all eight games this season and made 14 tackles.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101066/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Detroit-based Quicken Loans will sponsor NASCAR's Stewart, Newman in 2012</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS16/111101032/1048/sports</link> <description>&amp;quot;I'm very honored and proud to bring a new partner to the sport and one from Detroit,&amp;quot; Stewart told the Free Press from the Stewart-Haas Racing shop in Kannapolis, N.C.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:47:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS16/111101032/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Dantonio disputes criticism that MSU's offense was predictable</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS07/111101042/1048/sports</link> <description>Asked whether he was concerned about the variety in play calling, Dantonio said: &amp;quot;No, I'm not concerned about that. It's real easy to talk that after the game. I'll concern myself with the future.&amp;quot;</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 20:41:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS07/111101042/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Video: Son of Swami has slick moves and even better picks</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/HSS/111101062/1048/sports</link> <description>We're a week into the high school football playoffs, and SOS already has gone off the deep end. But sadly, if you want to know who will win the district finals, you have to listen to him.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:05:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/HSS/111101062/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Former Lions star Tommy Watkins dies</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101060/1048/sports</link> <description>After his playing career, Watkins coached at Detroit Chadsey High for 35 seasons, until retiring in 2006.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:37:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101060/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Suh says he learned from meeting with Goodell</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101059/1048/sports</link> <description>Ndamukong Suh got his meeting with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell today. Whether it changes the way he plays -- or how he's perceived -- remains to be seen.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:32:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101059/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Dombrowski: Tigers seek 2B, catcher; will part ways with Guillen, Ordonez</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101052/1048/sports</link> <description>The Tigers' general manager met with the media today and touched on just about every spot on the roster, with free agency looming at the end of the week.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 16:06:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101052/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers, Mud Hens extend agreement; Austin Jackson wins award</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101045/1048/sports</link> <description>Also: Austin Jackson of the Tigers has won the 2011 Fielding Bible Award as the best defensive centerfielder in baseball.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111101045/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Hoke: Kovacs expected to play Saturday vs. Iowa</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101040/1048/sports</link> <description>&amp;quot;He did a nice job on Sunday running around and doing those type of things,&amp;quot; Hoke said. &amp;quot;He's going to be fine.&amp;quot;</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:04:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101040/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Matthew Stafford among three nominees for FedEx award</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101036/1048/sports</link> <description>New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning and Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger also are finalists. Fan voting runs through 3 p.m. Friday at nfl.com/fedex.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:35:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101036/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jim Schwartz: Lions wanted sun on their side in win at Denver</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101033/1048/sports</link> <description>During today's radio appearance, Lions coach Jim Schwartz also discussed Ndamukong Suh's meeting with the NFL, whether the team has its swagger back and more.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:05:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111101033/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Pistons' Wallace pleads guilty in drunken-driving, weapon case</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111101018/1048/sports</link> <description>He pleaded guilty this morning to misdemeanor charges of drunken driving and possessing a gun while intoxicated in a deal that likely will keep him out of jail.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 10:07:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111101018/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan, Michigan State bowl projections</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101004/1048/sports</link> <description>While it can never really be too early to look at some bowl projections, this latest calendar flip makes peeking ahead sensible.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 02:28:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101004/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation &amp; world: GLIAC accepts two new members in 2012</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS18/111010405/1048/sports</link> <description>The Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference announced Monday that it has accepted membership applications from Malone University and Walsh University, both in Ohio.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:51:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS18/111010405/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NHL roundup: Ryan Callahan leads Rangers by Sharks</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS05/111010407/1048/sports</link> <description>Ryan Callahan scored twice in New York's three-goal second period, and the Rangers shook off a blown lead and raced past the surging San Jose Sharks, 5-2, on Monday night.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:51:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS05/111010407/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro &amp; state: Two WMU Broncos honored by MAC</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS18/111010403/1048/sports</link> <description>Western Michigan's Jordan White and Johnnie Simon are Mid-American Conference West Division offensive and defensive players of the week, respectively.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:49:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS18/111010403/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Eric Sharp: Kiwi 35 should be axed from Mackinac races</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS10/111010409/1048/sports</link> <description>An investigation by U.S. Sailing into the deaths of two sailors during the last Chicago-Mackinac Race has reached a conclusion many people reached years ago -- high-performance, lightweight yachts like Wingnuts don't belong in long races out of sight of land.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS10/111010409/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Kim Kardashian files for divorce from Kris Humphries</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/ENT07/111010318/1048/sports</link> <description>That's all folks: It's a wrap for the 72-day marriage of reality TV queen Kim Kardashian and pro basketball player Kris Humphries.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:45:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/ENT07/111010318/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Italian team cuts ex-Piston DaJuan Summers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111010430/1048/sports</link> <description>DaJuan Summers was waived by the Italian League team that signed him this summer, according to Sportando, a Web site devoted to worldwide basketball news.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:45:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111010430/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>ESPN: Villanueva a leading candidate for contract amnesty</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111101001/1048/sports</link> <description>Whenever the NBA gets back to business (and we're pretty sure they'll get back to business some day), there's a prevailing thought that each NBA team will get a mulligan on one contract.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:42:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS03/111101001/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan senior reflects on his first Big Ten title race</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111010416/1048/sports</link> <description>NOVEMBER COMPETITION: With Michigan in the Big Ten title race for the first time in most of these players' careers, they were asked about the achievement to this point.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:42:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111010416/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>U-M praises Iowa's toughness</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111010414/1048/sports</link> <description>Maybe it's a psych job. Given the Wolverines' heavy praise Monday for Iowa, their opponent Saturday in Iowa City, it sounds as if they were in the No. 1 vs. No. 2 game this weekend.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:39:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111010414/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Baseball notes: Indians decline option on Grady Sizemore</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010379/1048/sports</link> <description>Contracts: The Indians declined a $9-million option on former All-Star centerfielder Grady Sizemore and picked up an option on pitcher Fausto Carmona. Injuries limited Sizemore to 210 games over the past three seasons. ... Rather than become a free agent, CC Sabathia agreed to a new deal with the Yankees that adds an additional season and $30 million in guaranteed money, bringing the left-hander's total over the next five years to $122 million. The Yankees also exercised options on second baseman Robinson Cano ($14 million) and rightfielder Nick Swisher ($10.25 million). ... The Braves picked up a club option on utilityman Eric Hinske, but declined an option on outfielder Nate McLouth (Whitehall High), who hit .228. ... The Reds exercised second baseman Brandon Phillips' contract option, but declined a $12-million option on former Tiger Francisco Cordero. The Reds also lost left-hander Matt Maloney, who was claimed off waivers by Minnesota. The Reds paid a $1-million buyout to Cordero, who had 37 saves. ... First baseman Jason Giambi and the Rockies exercised a mutual option on a $1-million deal. Colorado declined its $11.2-million option on right-hander Aaron Cook. ... The Nationals picked up the option on manager Davey Johnson's contract. Johnson, 68, took over in late June after Jim Riggleman resigned. The Nationals went 40-43 under Johnson and finished 80-81. ... The Royals picked up an option on closer Joakim Soria for $6 million. ... The Cubs declined an option on right-hander Jeff Samardzija. They exercised their side of a $16-million option on third baseman Aramis Ramirez, but Ramirez told the team he will decline his side of the option and explore free agency.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010379/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>John Lowe: Leyland calls La Russa the best of all time -- and he's right</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010381/1048/sports</link> <description>Jim Leyland was asked Monday to put in perspective the managerial career of his friend Tony La Russa, who retired Monday after leading St. Louis to the World Series title last week. He replied without hesitation.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:31:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010381/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Daily list: Top-notch managers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010377/1048/sports</link> <description>St. Louis manager Tony La Russa retired Monday with 2,728 victories. Here are the all-time-winningest managers with a Detroit connection:</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:30:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010377/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>What to watch today: Gold Glove awards</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010383/1048/sports</link> <description>Tigers in contention are catcher Alex Avila and centerfielder Austin Jackson.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:29:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010383/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Avila, Jackson Gold Glove finalists; not Peralta</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010432/1048/sports</link> <description>Two Tigers could be announced as American League Gold Glove winners tonight -- Alex Avila at catcher and Austin Jackson in centerfield. But the Tigers' Jhonny Peralta won't win the Gold Glove at shortstop despite making only seven errors.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS02/111010432/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NFL roundup: Chiefs top Chargers in OT, 23-20</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010395/1048/sports</link> <description>Ryan Succop kicked a 30-yard field goal in overtime, giving the Kansas City a 23-20 victory over the San Diego Chiefs on Monday night and moving the Chiefs into an improbable tie atop the AFC West.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:24:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010395/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Photo: Bowling for dollars</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010398/1048/sports</link> <description>Lions defensive back Louis Delmas, center, talks with Fred Murray and Royda Urey at Monday's Spooktacular bowling fund-raiser at Star Lanes in Royal Oak.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:24:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010398/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions coach Jim Schwartz's quotes from Monday</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010396/1048/sports</link> <description>Highlights from Schwartz's news conference:</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:24:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010396/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>At 6-2, Lions ready for some R&amp;R</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010422/1048/sports</link> <description>Nate Burleson doesn't know where he'll spend the Lions' bye week, but he's got a pretty good idea what he'll be doing.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:22:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010422/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Titus Young leapt at chance to reach stands after first TD</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010426/1048/sports</link> <description>Titus Young's touchdown celebration was a long time coming, and it didn't matter that it came in enemy stands.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010426/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' Jahvid Best still sidelined; Matthew Stafford bouncing back</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010424/1048/sports</link> <description>The Lions continue to have no timetable on the return of running back Jahvid Best, who has missed the past two games with a concussion.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:14:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010424/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>New Lion Chris Harris tired, but pumped to play ex-team</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010400/1048/sports</link> <description>After traveling 7,546 miles to five cities in seven days, new Lions safety Chris Harris was tired Monday in the locker room.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:12:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010400/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Dave Birkett: Lions second-half collapse not likely</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010391/1048/sports</link> <description>They've been here before. Not this collection of players or coaches. But you don't have to look too far back to see the last time the Lions stood on the precipice of the playoffs midway through the season.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:09:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111010391/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mr. Basketball Anderson leaves MSU for Wagner</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS07/111010428/1048/sports</link> <description>Dwaun Anderson, granted his release from a letter of intent to play basketball at Michigan State in August, will enroll at Wagner College in Staten Island, N.Y.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:06:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS07/111010428/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Suh entitled to clarification on NFL policies</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/COL08/111010418/1048/sports</link> <description>Ndamukong Suh seeking audience with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and his lieutenants in New York is an example of an intellectual curiosity not often associated with bruising behemoths entrusted with the brutish responsibility of destroying quarterbacks.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 01:02:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/COL08/111010418/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan player has no problem with Iowa's pink locker room</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101003/1048/sports</link> <description>Iowa's Kinnick Stadium can be a harsh place for visiting teams. And it all starts with its notorious pink visiting locker room.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:43:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111101003/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Recruiting: U-M after Ill. junior OL</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111031063/1048/sports</link> <description>Despite the high number, the 2013 class will also one that needs talent along the offensive front. One player who could help fill that role is Wheaton (Ill.) St. Francis offensive lineman Kyle Bosch.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:38:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111031063/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jamie Samuelsen's blog: Take heart, Michigan fans - your team is improving</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111031047/1048/sports</link> <description>As the team rounds the final turn and find itself tied for first in the Legends Division, Michigan has done what every team looks to do when the season started - it's improved.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:10:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS06/111031047/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Jamie Samuelsen's blog: Lions prove fast start was no fluke</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111031046/1048/sports</link> <description>Sure, the Lions had ridiculous comebacks against the Vikings and Cowboys. But they also beat all the teams they were supposed to beat. They dismantled the Chiefs. They controlled the Buccaneers. And they outlasted the Bears. Sunday they demolished the Broncos in every phase of the game.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:03:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111101/SPORTS01/111031046/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Ex-Lions QB Erik Kramer's son, 18, found dead</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/111101002/1048/sports</link> <description>Griffen Kramer, a backup quarterback at Thousand Oaks (Calif.) High, was found dead Sunday at a friend's house, school officials said Monday.</description> <pubDate>Tue, 01 Nov 2011 18:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/111101002/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Prep football second-round playoff schedule</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/HSS/110310344/1048/sports</link> <description>REGION 1 Grand Ledge (8-2) at Rockford (9-1). Midland (9-1) at Grand Blanc (8-2). REGION 2 Temperance Bedford (7-3) at Ann Arbor Pioneer (8-2). Canton (8-2) at Novi Detroit Catholic Central (9-1). REGION 3 Walled Lake Central (7-3) at Clarkston (7-3).</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 23:23:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/HSS/110310344/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings agree to 7-year deal with Niklas Kronwall</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031026/1048/sports</link> <description>The Red Wings have agreed to terms with defenseman Niklas Kronwall on a seven-year extension worth $33.25 million. He has long been considered an integral part of the team.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 20:48:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031026/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State reveals Carrier Classic uniforms</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/111031058/1048/sports</link> <description>As expected, Michigan State released a camouflage-patterned uniform for their Carrier Classic game against North Carolina on Veterans Day.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:40:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/111031058/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Gustav Nyquist to debut with Red Wings vs. Wild</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031054/1048/sports</link> <description>Nyquist will take the place of forward Fabian Brunnstrom, who cleared waivers on Monday and was assigned to Grand Rapids.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:13:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031054/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Reader column: Justin Verlander's MVP case solid as his seamer</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/111031049/1048/sports</link> <description>Following a defeat, the Tigers righty took to the hill and ended a losing streak 15 times, the measuring stick of a true ace.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 15:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/111031049/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan coach Hoke to Toussaint: You've got the job</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/111031042/1048/sports</link> <description>Since the Michigan coaching staff arrived on campus in January, they've refused to name a starting tailback because no one stood out. That changed today, as U-M coach Brady Hoke declared that the job belongs to redshirt sophomore Fitz Toussaint.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:17:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/111031042/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Cleveland Indians acquire veteran starter Derek Lowe</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031041/1048/sports</link> <description>The Cleveland Indians, a Central Division foe of the Detroit Tigers, acquired veteran pitcher Derek Lowe from the Atlanta Braves today.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 14:04:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031041/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers ship pitcher Brad Thomas, catcher Omir Santos to minors</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031039/1048/sports</link> <description>The Detroit Tigers today announced that the club has outrighted the contracts of lefthanded pitcher Brad Thomas and catcher Omir Santos to Triple A Toledo.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:45:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031039/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions-Bears kickoff moved from 1 p.m. to 4:15</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/111031038/1048/sports</link> <description>The Detroit Lions next game, Nov. 13 at Chicago, will get under way at 4:15 p.m. instead of the 1 p.m. originally scheduled, the NFL announced today.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 13:25:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/111031038/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Red Wings' Fabian Brunnstrom clears waivers, hopes to stick with Detroit in minors</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031036/1048/sports</link> <description>The Red Wings have assigned Brunnstrom, 26, to Grand Rapids, where he can play 10 games or stay 30 days before having to be put through waivers again.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/111031036/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tony La Russa retires; Tigers' Jim Leyland now tops among winningest active managers</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031024/1048/sports</link> <description>Tony La Russa retired as manager of the St. Louis Cardinals this morning, three days after winning a dramatic, seven-game World Series against the Texas Rangers.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 11:41:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/111031024/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Reality check: After 5-0 start, high-powered Red Wings offense sputters</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310398/1048/sports</link> <description>This is what it has come to for the Red Wings: Henrik Zetterberg apologizing to Detroit reporters, because he can't think up new ways to talk about what's going on.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:59:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310398/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michael Rosenberg: What's not to love about Halloween?</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/COL22/110310350/1048/sports</link> <description>Today is Halloween, and as we examine the deep meaning and history of this particular -- Boo! What? I didn't scare you? OK. But as you look back on it, I think you can agree that -- BOO! Still nothing? Not even a little shudder? Perhaps print is the wrong medium for this. I wonder whether it worked in the 1920s.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/COL22/110310350/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Lions should embrace being NFL's bad boys</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/COL08/110310451/1048/sports</link> <description>Black hats don't clash with Honolulu blue. They might provide the perfect accoutrement for a team swimming against a tide bent on defining it as a cabal of evil football heretics. Why fight it, Lions? Just roll with it.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/COL08/110310451/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Five things we learned about U-M and MSU on Saturday</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310396/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writers Mark Snyder and George Sipple review the lessons gleaned from Saturday's games:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310396/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tim Tebow falters; starting status up in air</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310463/1048/sports</link> <description>Tim Tebow's status under center for next weekend's game might be as shaky as one of his passes.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:37:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310463/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Matthew Stafford's ankle looks sound on 21-yard scramble</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310465/1048/sports</link> <description>If there were any lingering questions about the health of Matthew Stafford's sprained right ankle, they disappeared late in Sunday's first quarter when the Lions quarterback stepped up in the pocket to avoid a sack and took off running for a 21-yard gain, tying his career high.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:37:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310465/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NFL roundup: Giants rally; Miami still winless</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310441/1048/sports</link> <description>The winless Miami Dolphins keep finding ways to lose in the closing minutes, and it's only adding to the pressure on embattled coach Tony Sparano.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:36:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310441/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions ticker: Lions stoop to conquer -- and do a little Tebowing</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310410/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Steve Schrader breaks down the news and views of the Lions' blowout of the Denver Broncos in the ticker:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:35:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310410/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NFL ticker: Cards bring winning ways to Edward Jones Dome</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310473/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Mari Delagarza breaks down the latest news from around the league:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:35:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310473/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions notes and quotes from Sunday's win</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310437/1048/sports</link> <description>Here are notes and quotes from the Lions' 45-10 win over the Denver Broncos on Sunday in Denver:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:33:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310437/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Three questions with ... Free Press columnist Drew Sharp</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310461/1048/sports</link> <description>This was an important victory for the Lions. They ended a two-game losing streak and enter the bye week 6-2. What do you rank their odds of making the playoffs?</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:32:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310461/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Dueling rookie QBs: Christian Ponder outshines Cam Newton</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310439/1048/sports</link> <description>Christian Ponder took only two starts to get his first career win, outdueling more heralded Cam Newton in the process. The rookie showed tremendous poise in the pocket, particularly on third downs, and got a huge assist from Adrian Peterson on Sunday as the Minnesota Vikings held on to beat the Carolina Panthers, 24-21.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:31:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310439/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Face it ... Tim Tebow just isn't good enough</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310467/1048/sports</link> <description>Reporters asked Kyle Vanden Bosch if there was any trash-talking between the defensive linemen and the opposing quarterbacks they're trying to frustrate. The Lion almost sorrowfully conceded that he wasn't compelled to talk smack this time. "It's hard doing that to someone who shows you as much respect as he does," Vanden Bosch said.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:30:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310467/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Overheard: What players and coaches had to say after the Lions' victory</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310459/1048/sports</link> <description>Overheard: What players and coaches had to say after the Lions' 45-10 victory</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:28:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310459/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Detroit 45, Denver 10: Lions back on track</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310435/1048/sports</link> <description>The NFL's Web site billed it as Good vs. Evil, and as Ndamukong Suh said after the Lions blitzed, battered and mocked Tim Tebow, "Evil prevails." The Lions flustered Tebow with a season-high seven sacks and snapped a troublesome two-game losing streak in grand fashion Sunday, beating the Broncos, 45-10, at Sports Authority Field.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310435/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Stephen Jackson revives Rams with 2 TDs</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310445/1048/sports</link> <description>Running back Steven Jackson awoke in the middle of the night on game day, deciding he'd tell teammates enough was enough and that no way the Rams were this awful. Then he led by example with two touchdowns in his first 100-yard game in three seasons, helping St. Louis earn its first win with a 31-21 upset of the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:25:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310445/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Grading the Lions in win over Broncos</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310457/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Dave Birkett delivers a slew of high marks for the blowout, but none better than those for Matthew Stafford, the defensive line and coaching staff:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:24:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310457/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions' next opponent: The Bear truth</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310392/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Carlos Monarrez breaks down the Lions' next opponent, the Chicago Bears:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 01:22:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS01/110310392/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mick McCabe: Walled Lake Central's coach nearly negated his gutsy call</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/HSS1201/110310342/1048/sports</link> <description>Walled Lake Central coach Bob Meyer knew his team's opening-round playoff game with Division 1 defending champ Lake Orion was going to be close, so he needed something he could go to if the timing was right.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/HSS1201/110310342/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Tigers will have to look hard to find quality 2B free agent</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/110310358/1048/sports</link> <description>What do the Tigers need to take the next step in 2012? Some say it's a second baseman. The combination of Will Rhymes/Scott Sizemore/Ramon Santiago/Carlos Guillen/Ryan Raburn/Don Kelly/Danny Worth hit .260 with 16 home runs, 69 RBIs and an OPS of .705. (By the way, those numbers are better than this year's centerfielders and third basemen.)</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS02/110310358/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Darko Milicic aside, Pistons get high marks for draft picks</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS03/110310356/1048/sports</link> <description>A common misconception is that the Pistons' front office usually makes mistakes on draft night. Most of that stems from the selection of Darko Milicic with the second pick in 2003 in one of the most talent-rich drafts in NBA history and two other drafting misadventures in Michigan State star Mateen Cleaves (2000) and Rodney White (2001).</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS03/110310356/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Amid goal dearth, Danny Cleary searches for rhythm</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310362/1048/sports</link> <description>No one embodies the Red Wings' struggle to score more right now than Danny Cleary, who has two assists this season.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310362/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NHL roundup: Jackets down Ducks; Oilers win 5th in row</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310431/1048/sports</link> <description>Rick Nash, rookie Ryan Johansen and Fedor Tyutin scored for the Columbus Blue Jackets in a 3-1 victory over the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday night, only their second win of the season. James Wisniewski added two assists for the Blue Jackets. Steve Mason made 18 saves, including three key saves with the Ducks on the power play and pressing for the tying goal in the second period.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS05/110310431/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>William Gholston returns with a vengeance, has career-high 15 tackles</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310354/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State sophomore defensive end William Gholston had a career-high 15 tackles in Saturday's 24-3 loss at Nebraska. In his first game back after serving a one-game suspension for punching Michigan's Taylor Lewan, Gholston more then doubled his previous career high of six tackles</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310354/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>After a big month, Michigan State suffers a big letdown</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310382/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer George Sipple points out the Spartans sputtering offense wasn't as prepared as Nebraska:</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310382/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Extra points: The road to Indy</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310394/1048/sports</link> <description>Who has the edge to represent the Legends Division in the inaugural Big Ten championship game Dec. 3? MSU, U-M and Nebraska are tied atop the division at 3-1.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310394/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan State 85, Ferris State 58: Dawson shows rebounding skills</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310427/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State's Tom Izzo mentioned before Sunday's exhibition opener against Ferris State that there would be quite a few unknowns with one of the younger teams he has coached. An 85-58 win over the Bulldogs provided a few answers.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS07/110310427/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mike Martin's determination inspiring Michigan teammates</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/110310360/1048/sports</link> <description>Playing in the middle of Michigan's defensive front for three years, Mike Martin has drawn excessive attention. But when he can break through, like his two-sack effort Saturday against Purdue, including a game-changing safety, the defense feeds off its leader.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/110310360/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan enjoys view from the top</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/110310384/1048/sports</link> <description>For the past three years, the start of November was the end of Michigan's Big Ten hopes. A new year apparently means new optimism. After Saturday's 36-14 win over Purdue at Michigan Stadium, one-win Octobers are a thing of the past as the Wolverines enter the final month in a Legends Division first-place tie with Michigan State and Nebraska at 3-1.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS06/110310384/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>College football ticker: Michigan State helps put Cornhuskers back in black</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS08/110310423/1048/sports</link> <description>It looks as though Nebraska's defensive starters will be back in black Monday. The Cornhuskers shut down Kirk Cousins and Michigan State on Saturday with a dominating performance that would have made any Blackshirt of the past proud.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS08/110310423/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>NASCAR: Tony Stewart slides past Jimmie Johnson at Martinsville</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS16/110310421/1048/sports</link> <description>Over? Who said it was over? Tony Stewart passed then-leader Jimmie Johnson with two of 500 laps remaining and came away with a victory in Sunday's Tums 500 at Martinsville Speedway. The 1-2 finish of Stewart and Johnson helped both remain in the thick of the Sprint Cup Series championship picture. Carl Edwards continues to lead the series standings with three races remaining.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS16/110310421/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Daily list: Five must-see second-round prep football games</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310338/1048/sports</link> <description>Five must-see second-round games. (Dates and times to be announced.) BIRMINGHAM BROTHER RICE AT FARMINGTON HILLS HARRISON Brother Rice must find someone who can cover Harrison's Aaron Burbridge, but will Harrison have a healthy QB? MUSKEGON CATHOLIC CENTRAL AT MENDON</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310338/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Metro + state: Oakland women's soccer ends season on streak</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310425/1048/sports</link> <description>Women's soccer Oakland defeated IUPUI, 3-2, in Indianapolis on Sunday to finish the season with a four-game winning streak. Jordan Penz scored the winning goal for the Golden Grizzlies (8-10, 6-2-1 Summit). Meghan Reynolds had a goal and an assist. IUPUI finished the season 4-12-4, 2-6-1.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310425/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Nation + world: Rory McIlroy edges Anthony Kim at Shanghai</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310429/1048/sports</link> <description>U.S. Open champion Rory McIlroy won $2 million in the Shanghai Masters on Sunday, beating Anthony Kim on the first hole of a playoff. McIlroy holed a 2-foot putt for par after Kim missed a 3-footer.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/SPORTS18/110310429/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Your Mike: Detroit Lions brand the Broncos!</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/BLOG24/111030026/1048/sports</link> <description>Play our cartoon caption contest!</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 20:55:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111031/BLOG24/111030026/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Suh asks for meeting with NFL over penalties</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030016/1048/sports</link> <description>Penalties of the personal-foul variety have become a problem for Ndamukong Suh to the point that the Lions defensive tackle has asked for meeting with the NFL, according to Fox Sports.</description> <pubDate>Mon, 31 Oct 2011 18:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030016/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michigan 15th in BCS standings; Spartans 17th</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS06/111030027/1048/sports</link> <description>Much like the AP and USA Today coaches' polls, Michigan jumped Michigan State in the latest BCS Standings, which were released Sunday night.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 21:21:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS06/111030027/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Detroit 45, Denver 10: Lions romp Broncos, go into bye 6-2</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030024/1048/sports</link> <description>The Lions found exactly the cure they needed to snap a two-game losing streak today - Tim Tebow and the woeful Broncos.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 19:26:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030024/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Blog: Lions hammer Tebow, Broncos, 45-10</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111028065/1048/sports</link> <description>Matthew Stafford thew for three touchdowns and the Lions sacked Tim Tebow seven times en route to a 45-10 win today in Denver.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 19:25:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111028065/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Canada's Tessa Virtue, Scott Moir win Skate Canada</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS17/111030021/1048/sports</link> <description>Ice dancers Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir of Canada returned to the ISU Grand Prix circuit after a year's absence with a flourish this afternoon by winning Skate Canada in Mississauga, Ontario.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 15:06:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS17/111030021/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>U-M ranked ahead of MSU in college football polls</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS06/111030015/1048/sports</link> <description>Even though the Spartans beat the Wolverines two weeks ago, Michigan is a couple of slots ahead of Michigan State in the latest college football top 25 polls.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:56:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS06/111030015/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Stafford's ankle good enough to start today for Lions</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030020/1048/sports</link> <description>Matthew Stafford will start today against the Denver Broncos. Nick Fairley, Jahvid Best, new safety Chris Harris, Don Carey, Jason Fox and Rashied Davis are inactive.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 14:44:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/111030020/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Until the final snap: Albion senior puts transplant on hold for football</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/1048/sports</link> <description>Alma College had scored a touchdown with 8 seconds left to pull within a point of Albion, and the Scots were lining up to attempt the tying extra point. Albion nose tackle Julian Paksi lined up over the right guard. When the ball was snapped, he and end Jacob Heinrich double-teamed the guard, but this time something different happened.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:56:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS08/110300589/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Prep football first-round playoff results</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/HSS/110300484/1048/sports</link> <description>Detroit Catholic Central 56, Northville 6 Fenton 45, Marquette 21 Farmington 49, Detroit Henry Ford 19 Petoskey 31, Bay City John Glenn 14 Linden 21, Lapeer West 0 Orchard Lake St. Mary 56, Detroit Pershing 6 Escanaba 35, Ludington 21 Ann Arbor Richard 35, Capac 0 Iron Mountain 49, Tawas 14 McBain 27, Calumet 15 Constantine 28, Hartford 21 River Rouge 33, Ecorse 8</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:54:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/HSS/110300484/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Mick McCabe: Fifth time is a charm for Romeo </title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/HSS1201/110300478/1048/sports</link> <description>Late in the fourth quarter Friday, Romeo and Troy Athens were tied at 7. So how did the game finish, 34-31? "Neither side thought that was very much fun," said Romeo co-coach Jason Couch. "Why not go into five overtimes? One's not enough."</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:53:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/HSS1201/110300478/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Time for the Tigers to cut loose some free agents?</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS02/110300539/1048/sports</link> <description>When the World Series ended, Magglio Ordo&amp;ntilde;ez, Carlos Guillen, Ramon Santiago, Wilson Betemit, Brad Penny and Joel Zumaya became free agents.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:52:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS02/110300539/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Drew Sharp: Big-money free agents don't always pay off</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/COL08/110300585/1048/sports</link> <description>The cell phone rang, and Jim Leyland interrupted his pregame session with the media in the visiting manager's office in Oakland the morning after the Tigers clinched the American League Central Division. He had to take this call. It was Tony La Russa offering congratulations.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:51:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/COL08/110300585/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Minnesota 1, Detroit 0: Wings shut out by Wild in fourth straight loss</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS05/110300459/1048/sports</link> <description>Pavel Datsyuk cut to the core of the Red Wings' problems after their latest loss. The Wings lost, 1-0, Saturday night to the Wild at the Xcel Energy Center, shut out for the first time this season after being unable to get a puck by Josh Harding despite battering him with 36 shots.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:50:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS05/110300459/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Kyler Elsworth gets 10 tackles filling in at linebacker</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS07/110300623/1048/sports</link> <description>Michigan State sophomore linebacker Kyler Elsworth was forced into duty Saturday against Nebraska, after earning Big Ten special-teams player of the week Monday. Elsworth finished with a career-high 10 tackles and forced a fumble in a 24-3 loss to the Cornhuskers at Memorial Stadium.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:28:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS07/110300623/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Michael Rosenberg: Nebraska in catbird seat, but MSU could pass in Legends</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS07/110300625/1048/sports</link> <description>LINCOLN, Neb. -- Michigan State finished its October walk through the Big Ten fire with a 3-1 record: wins over Ohio State, Michigan and Wisconsin, and Saturday's loss to Nebraska. After the Nebraska game, a reporter asked coach Mark Dantonio whether he would have taken a 3-1 October record before the season.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:25:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS07/110300625/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Story lines to watch as Lions try to reverse two-game skid</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/110300587/1048/sports</link> <description>Free Press sports writer Dave Birkett breaks down five story lines to watch in today's game between the Lions and Broncos:</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:10:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/110300587/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Lions see today's game in Denver as key to postseason hopes</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/110300578/1048/sports</link> <description>Dominic Raiola called today's game against the Denver Broncos a must win, and it's easy to see why. After a 5-0 start, the Lions have fallen on hard times the past two weeks against the two best teams they've played.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 01:08:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS01/110300578/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>Report concludes WingNuts boat was unfit for race in which 2 people died</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/NEWS06/110300557/1048/sports</link> <description>US Sailing's long-awaited report on a Lake Michigan accident that killed two Chicago-to-Mackinac race sailors in July was released Saturday and faults the boat's design for the tragedy. The report says WingNuts, a Kiwi 35 sport boat with a very high amount of sail area relative to the boat's light weight, was not suited to races as long and unpredictable as the Mackinac race.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:57:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/NEWS06/110300557/1048/sports</guid> </item><item> <title>More NBA games might be lost</title> <link>http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS03/110300537/1048/sports</link> <description>Anyone who has been to a car dealership or bought a home understands how negotiating works. One side offers a number, the other counters, and they meet somewhere in the middle and make a deal.</description> <pubDate>Sun, 30 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0400</pubDate> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.freep.com/article/20111030/SPORTS03/110300537/1048/sports</guid> </item> </channel> </rss>