BEAT WRITING

OVER 175,000

1. David Waldstein, The New York Times, (2), 48 points

With a Win, the Ending to Pettitte’s Illustrious Career Is Complete

All About A-Rod on the Day the Yankees Lose Teixeira

Hal Steinbrenner Plots New Course for Yankees

Hitched to an Aging Star: Anatomy of a Deal, and Doubts

The Boyhood Tides That Formed Baseball’s Sandman

2. Sam Borden, The New York Times (1), 43 points

Freed of a Secret’s Burden, a Soccer Player Looks Ahead

Bayern Munich, Champion of Germany, Adds European Title

Pickup Soccer in Brazil Has an Allure All Its Own

European Soccer’s Biggest Star May Be a Song

Building a World Cup Stadium in the Amazon

3. Baxter Holmes, Boston Globe, 42 points

Defense has long been a trademark of Avery Bradley

Celtics lose in Doc Rivers’ return to Boston

Easy to see Celtics’ Rajon Rondo as a coach

Clippers reach deal to hire Celtics coach Doc Rivers

Indiana roots bound Brad Stevens to basketball

4. Benjamin Hochman, The Denver Post, (2), 35 points

Nuggets have come to know JaVale McGee as "The Great Adventure"

Athletes and Pot: Legalized marijuana in a league of its own

Nuggets beat Warriors on Andre Miller's last-second shot

Survival shaped new Nuggets head coach Brian Shaw

Brian Shaw hired as next Denver Nuggets head coach

5. Jesse Temple, FoxSports.com, 33 points

Pain of losing baseball still resonates at Wisconsin

Wisconsin's Andersen guided by principles, loyalty

Big Ten to pay just under $5 million to FCS teams in 2013

No way to mask Badgers' poor shooting

Onetime Wisconsin starting QB Danny O'Brien leaves program

6. Michael Gehlken, U-T San Diego, 31 points

Chargers doctor David Chao steps down

The house D.J. Fluker bought

Chargers send Eli back to New York

Kyle Turley's fight for the mind

Early pattern to Ryan Mathews' usage

7. Andy McCullough, The Star-Ledger, (1) 29 points

Yankees general manager Brian Cashman forges ahead despite aging roster, pessimistic fan base

Mariano Rivera: 42 snapshots of Yankees closer gives the big picture

Alex Rodriguez almost impossible to ignore as MLB's one-man reality show

Mariano Rivera stars in final Yankee Stadium appearance in 4-0 loss to Tampa Bay

Carlos Beltran agrees to three-year, $45 million contract as Yankees resume spending

8. Corbett Smith, The Dallas Morning News, 27 points

UIL committee recommendation limits in-season, full-contact football practice

Triple A Academy wins boys basketball state title, but Mumford coach says, 'We're still public-school champions'

Special report: Some Texas schools fail to provide catastrophic care for injuries (Part 1)

New UIL mandate could help save young lives, but does it go far enough?

Order for certification has DISD coaches scrambling to earn teaching credentials by end of 2013-14

9. Jeff Barker, The Sun (Baltimore), 25 points

Maryland deal included multimillion-dollar travel subsidy from Big Ten

Seth Allen's two free throws lift Terps to 83-81 win over No. 2 Duke

University of Maryland launched extensive PR campaign to change impressions about Big Ten move

Former Terps star Kenny Tate is trying to keep his NFL dream alive

Maryland coaches Mark Turgeon, Brenda Frese initially opposed move to Big Ten

10. Joseph Goodman, Miami Herald, 17 points

Miami Heat’s global reach evident in response to Harlem Shake video

Miami Heat defeats San Antonio Spurs in Game 7 to win second consecutive NBA title

Miami Heat uses amnesty clause to waive Mike Miller

The Miami Heat’s ‘Birdman’ wins his name back

Green doesn’t matter to Miami Heat’s Ray Allen

75,001 TO 175,000

1. Andrew Carter, The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.), (5), 57 points

UNC's Reggie Bullock left Kinston's streets, but carries their memory

UNC eliminates N.C. State in 12-inning ACC thriller

Emails show UNC doubts about ACC after Maryland’s departure

As ACC fouls drop, the pounding players take rises

UNC's P.J. Hairston will not return to Tar Heels

2. Zak Keefer, The Indianapolis Star, (1), 52 points

Indiana coach Tom Crean berates Michigan assistant after emotional victory

Christian Watford and the block that saved Indiana's season

Tirade by Indiana softball coach forces university to investigate line between motivation and abuse

Indiana Basketball: Freshman Yogi Ferrell, the can't-miss prospect who lived up to the hype

Indiana basketball: So, what's it really like to be a manager for the team?

3. Harry Minium, The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk, Va.), 47 points

A lot of work in not much time for ODU's big move

ODU escapes NSU upset bid in final seconds

ODU tackle Morrell plays for love of his brother

ODU envisions new, 30,000-seat football stadium

ODU lineman is Born to be a block star

4. Amanda Comak, The Washington Times, 45 points

Nationals 2013: It’s ‘World Series or bust’ as Johnson prepares to cap five-plus decades in game

Harpers share 'Dream come true' as Bryce Harper places second in Home Run Derby

Team spirit and Holy Spirit — for Nationals religion looms large on and off the field

Jordan Zimmermann’s quiet rise to All-Star status

5. Jason Kersey, The Oklahoman, 30 points

College football: SEC's dominance has given the South something to finally be proud of

Oklahoma football: Bob Stoops fires assistants Jackie Shipp and Bruce Kittle

Bedlam football: Unexpected plays, bold decisions lift OU past Oklahoma State

Oklahoma football: How Nick Saban built a bond with the Stoops family

Oklahoma football: How a season at Oklahoma Panhandle State helped shape Bill Bedenbaugh's career

6. Kelly Hines, Tulsa (Okla.) World, 26 points

OSU sues endowment over plumbing issue

Marcus Smart's decision is to stay at OSU

Going pro: Which sport gets draft rules right?

Battlefield tested: OSU coach's Afghan tour grounds daily perspective

Twitter, TV exposure lead to OSU's Craig dating Dallas Cowboys cheerleader (no link)

7. Martin Frank, The News Journal (Wilmington, Del.), 23 points

Riley Cooper apologizes for racial slur caught on tape

In Chip Kelly's offense, lightning-quick speed is essential

Vick and Foles have a healthy QB competition going

Eagles quarterback instability a challenge

LeSean McCoy dashes through snow to record as Eagles drop Lions

8. Brendan F. Quinn, Knoxville (Tenn.) News Sentinel, 19 points

Skylar McBee goes from humble start to Senior Day

Offseason could be time to evaluate Cuonzo Martin’s contract

The anatomy of second chances: Former assistants pursue life after Tennessee

Source: Trae Golden's departure 'based on academics' and …

Marshall Henderson talks the talk, walks the walk as Ole Miss sweeps UT, 62-56

9. (tie) Jeff Lockridge, The Tennessean (Nashville), 17 points

Vanderbilt coach James Franklin maintains around-the-clock intensity

James Franklin's image unlikely to take hit from Vanderbilt scandal

Four Vanderbilt football players dismissed amid sex crimes investigation

Vanderbilt QB Austyn Carta-Samuels' path out of despair

Unranked Vanderbilt upsets No. 16 Georgia, causes coach to cry

(tie) Dave Matter, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, 17 points

Mizzou scores breakthrough victory at Georgia

Haith won't appeal but insists he was truthful

Pinkel on the hot seat at Mizzou?

Former walk-on Copeland a 'warrior' for Mizzou

Josey’s long nightmare followed by lofty dreams

30,001 TO 75,000

1. Chadd Cripe, Idaho Statesman (Boise), (5), 59 points

Chris Petersen leaves Boise State quickly, quietly

Huskies rout Broncos in rematch of last year’s MAACO Bowl Las Vegas

Boise State proving you can coach speed

Boise State's Linehan following in footsteps of his father and brothers

Boise State football coaches detail pursuit of this year’s offensive recruits

2. Brent Briggeman, The Gazette (Colorado Springs), 44 points

Back to the basics: Following Air Force freshmen football players through the summer

Air Force men knock off No. 12 New Mexico 89-88

Private funding could save Air Force-Navy game, which for now is off

Air Force at Navy football game is officially back on

Air Force quarterback Jaleel Awini suspended from team

3. Hugh Kellenberger, The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Miss.), 42 points

Why Ole Miss gave Marshall Henderson another chance

Last-second field goal lifts Ole Miss past No. 6 LSU

Negative spotlight again on Ole Miss

No Guarantees: It's easy to get caught up in the recruiting hype. The 2009 class is an example of why you shouldn't

Patrick Willis’ road to Super Bowl a tough one

4. John Talty, The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Miss.), 37 points

Ole Miss target Nkemdiche in middle of recruiting storm

Quack science? Coaches will use anything for an edge in recruiting, even 'Duck Dynasty'

Ole Miss' Hugh Freeze amazes by signing greatest recruiting class in school history

Record makes recruiting an uphill battle for Southern Miss

Football recruits forced to sift through red tape to see if offers are legitimate

5. Ryan Thorburn, The Register-Guard (Eugene, Ore.), (1), 34 points

Aliotti stepping aside

Good to the last stop

Rising Suns

Lone Star Roots

Ain't no excuse now

6. (tie) Deirdre Fleming, Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, 32 points

Colleagues say goodbye to Maine Warden Service legend

Which Maine towns have the lion's share of big-game kills?

Maine's bear hunting practices back in the crosshairs

Large tract near Baxter State Park opening to hunters

Roxanne Quimby's son offers new hope for national park plan

6. (tie) James Crepea, The Montgomery (Ala.) Advertiser, 32 points

The doctor is in: Auburn's Garner calls on 'Dr. Rush' to help make over D-line

Auburn football: Marshall named starting QB

Auburn football – New lease on life: Marshall leaves Georgia past behind, revives career with Tigers

Jordan-Hare prayer: Marshall dismisses Georgia on miraculous fourth-down play

Kick, Bama, Kick: Davis returns missed field goal 100 yards for win

8. Jim Meehan, The Spokesman-Review (Spokane, Wash.), 21 points

7-foot Zag has transformed into WCC player of year candidate

Butler steals win away from Gonzaga

Gonzaga’s Olynyk opts for NBA draft

Morrison adapts to new role as coach

A Few good years at Gonzaga

9. Norm Wood, Daily Press (Newport News, Va.), 17 points

Tajh Boyd blossoms from Phoebus star to ACC main attraction

Virginia Tech runs winning streak against Virginia to 10 games with 16-6 victory

Junior days are becoming more important in football recruiting process

Virginia Tech recruit Drew Harris is in junior college while wading through academic issues

Liddle sisters draw support for mom from Virginia Tech athletic community

10. David Dorsey, The News-Press (Fort Myers, Fla.), 12 points

Twins prospect Miguel Sano, two others promoted to Double-A

Weight lifting for your brain

UNDER 30,000

1. Adam Sparks, Daily News Journal (Tenn.), (3), 55 points

Former Marine faces fight to fulfill football dream

Raiders upset again in Sun Belt tourney

Blue Raiders bound for NCAA

MTSU football player saves epileptic girl at Special Olympics

C-USA 'big moment' arrives for MTSU

2. Mike Vorel, Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, (2), 48 points

Years after his death, Narcisse's legacy lives on at Wyoming

ONE LAST TIME: Granberry, Hankerson reunite at Wyoming following victory, loss

Wyoming's Smith shatters records in 59-56 overtime victory over Hawaii

FIRST TO CONSULT? University of Wyoming's hire of company to assess athletic 'competitiveness' is a unique case

Vorel: Wyoming fans should thank Smith, not demonize him

3. Brad Elliott Schlossman, Grand Forks (N.D.) Herald, 42 points

Sources: Lamoureuxs, Marvin on final roster for 2014 Winter Olympics

COLLEGE HOCKEY: Recruiting younger players yields mixed results

Yale tops UND with 4 goals in 8 minutes

COLLEGE HOCKEY: NCAA, NHL relationship a work in progress

UND WOMEN'S HOCKEY: Lamoureux sisters take path less traveled

4. Tom Green, Opelika-Auburn News, 37 points

Beulah quarterback walks away from game after multiple concussions

Opelika DB Stephen Roberts flips commitment from Alabama to Auburn

Auburn High advances to semifinals with heart-stopping win over Carver

No. 2 Auburn High eager for rematch with Carver-Montgomery, chance at history

Title or not, Tigers' season one to remember

5. Aaron Suttles, The Tuscaloosa News, (1), 36 points

University of Alabama fires assistant strength and conditioning coach who gave Ha Ha Clinton-Dix a loan

Saban's impact on UA football budget

Kevin Norwood has become the Tide's clutch receiver

ANALYSIS: Alabama coaches make right calls

(No link available for fifth entry)

6. Ben Frederickson, Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, 34 points

Police: Wyoming basketball player kicked defenseless man in face

Wyoming senior wrestler L.J. Helbig earns applause for his Senior-Day win

Remembering Wyoming's special fan Hunter Hansen

'Alcoholic' chants toward Colorado State's Eustachy crossed the line

Shock from Wyoming wrestlers as Olympics cuts sport

7. Dustin Dopirak, The Herald-Times (Bloomington, Ind.), 27 points

(No links: Content behind paywall)

8. Christopher Walsh, BamaOnline, 24 points

(No links: Content behind paywall)

9. Stephen Fastenau, The Island Packet/The Beaufort Gazette, 15 points

Hank Haney out at International Junior Golf Academy

Adam Scott redeemed with Masters victory

Fitness big business on PGA Tour, but not for every golfer

McDowell embraces the wind

Anchored putters fighting for permanent spot on PGA Tour

10. Brendan Meyer, Columbia Missourian, 12 points

Laurence Bowers ready for whatever the future holds

Missouri basketball coach Frank Haith addresses the media

'Home' hard for Missouri men's basketball player Stefan Jankovic to define

Mike Anderson returns to Missouri to play the team he left

Bowers hurt in Missouri men's basketball victory

BREAKING NEWS

OVER 175,000

1. Mike Klis, Denver Post, (2), 45 points

Broncos release Dumervil because contract too late

2. Adam Skolnick, The New York Times, (1), 44 points

A Deep-Water Diver From Brooklyn Dies After Trying for a Record

3. Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, (2), 43 points

USC fires Lane Kiffin in the middle of the night

4. Mike Bresnahan, David Wharton and Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Times, 40 points

'Showtime' ringmaster

5. Jeff Goodman, CBSSports.com, 31 points

Pac-12 head of officials investigated for targeting Arizona's Sean Miller

6. Bob Hohler, The Boston Globe, 30 points

Older sibling’s role in Boston attack stuns boxing circles

7. Eric Prisbell, USA TODAY Sports, 29 points

AAU coach: I took money intended to steer Ben McLemore

8. Clark Spencer, The Miami Herald, 27 points

Miami Marlins hitting coach Tino Martinez resigns over allegations of abusive behavior

9. Kevin Manahan, USA TODAY Sports, 26 points

Retaliation fears torment Ortiz's mom

10. Ricky Young and Mark Zeigler, UT San Diego, 15 points

Video shows reason for Burns’ departure

75,001 to 175,000

1. Kevin Tresolini, The News Journal (Wilmington, Del.), (3 first-place votes), 55 points

UD fires Keeler

2. Chip Alexander, News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.) (2 first-place votes), 49 points

Canes, NC State in potentially costly dispute over use of PNC Arena

3. Justin Barney, Florida Times-Union (Jacksonville), 45 points

Family: Ryan Freel was suffering from brain disease CTE

4. Ralph Haurwitz and Kirk Bohls, Austin American-Statesman, 38 points

Sources: Dodds to announce retirement Tuesday

5. Ira Kaufman and Roy Cummings, Tampa Tribune (1 first-place vote), 36 points

Freeman misses Buccaneers’ annual team photo

6. Brian Davis, Austin American-Statesman, 29 points

Texas’ Mack Brown resigns after 16 seasons as Longhorns head coach

7. Aaron Portzline, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch, 24 points

Blue Jackets' new GM brings a scout’s touch

8. Ryan Autullo, The Blade (Toledo, Ohio), 23 points

UT track coach resigned in wake of texts to athlete

9. Tim May, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch, 17 points

Ohio State football: Hyde suspended; Roby arrested

10. Martin Frank, The News Journal (Wilmington, Del.), 14 points

Riley Cooper apologizes for racial slur caught on tape

30,001 to 75,000

1. Glenn Jordan and David Hench,  Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, (2) 54 points

'It was all innocent people, just defenseless'

2. Dave Eminian, Peoria Journal Star, (1) 49 points

Peoria to join SPHL under former Rivermen management team

3. Dan Deluca, The News-Press (Fort Myers, Fla.), (1) 48 points

DEPOSITIONS SHOW HOW FOOTBALL PRACTICE BECAME FATAL FOR LEE COUNTY 11-YEAR-OLD STRUCK BY LIGHTNING 

4. Jeff Johnson, Jeff Linder, K.J. Pilcher, The Gazette (Cedar Rapids, Iowa), (1) 47 points

Washington’s Lombardi, Plagman being investigated by state (WEB VERSION)

5. Mike Lowe and David Hench,  Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, (1) 39 points

Pirates set sail for Lewiston

6. Nancy McLaughlin and Jeff Mills, News & Record (Greensboro, N.C.), 38 points

'We will never be the same': Basketball player Josh Level was 'heartbeat' of family

7. Paul Suellentrop, The Wichita Eagle, 37 points

Sources: Wichita State’s Gene Stephenson given choice of his exit as baseball coach

8. Justin A. Cohn, The Journal Gazette (Fort Wayne, Ind.), 28 points

Baer Field mourns loss in respected racing family

9. Adam Fisher, Naples Daily News, 27 points

Prep football: Naples star quarterback Kilton Anderson likely moving

10. Paula Pasche, The Oakland Press, 18 points

Titus Young, former Detroit Lions' receiver, arrested twice in 15 hours

UNDER 30,000

1. Ben Frederickson, Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune (3), 63 points

Police: Wyoming basketball player kicked defenseless man in face

2. Brad Elliott Schlossman, Grand Forks (N.D.) Herald (3), 55 points

Hardee resigns as UND volleyball coach

3. Tommy Deas, Andrew Carroll, The Tuscaloosa News (1), 54 points

2 high school soccer players ineligible after attending Alabama camp

4. Mike Vorel, Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, 43 points

FIRST TO CONSULT?

5. Aaron Suttles, The Tuscaloosa News, 38 points

University of Alabama fires assistant strength and conditioning coach who gave Ha Ha Clinton-Dix a loan

6. Cecil Hurt, Aaron Suttles, Tommy Deas, D.C. Reeves, Andrew Bone, The Tuscaloosa News, 34 points

Alabama's Nick Saban gets raise, contract extension

7. Tim Trower, Mail Tribune (Medford, Ore.), 32 points

Final round: Cedar Links set to close its doors today

8. Mike Szvetitz, Opelika-Auburn News (Ala.), 25 points

Former Auburn players deny quotes in report alleging NCAA violations

9. Rob Tate, Daily American Republic (Mo.), 24 points

PB man crosses line hour before bombs went off

10. Jim Seimas, Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.), 17 points

2013 MLB Draft: Pitching prospect Chris Viall to pass on pros, play for Stanford

 

COLUMN WRITING

Over 175,000

1. Bill Plaschke, Los Angeles Times (4), 57 points

Dodger Stadium usher worked to the end

As Jackie Robinson was making history, Wendell Smith wrote it

The cold truth Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis can't completely escape

They were two Caltech games for the record books

Lakers, Dwight Howard need to walk away from each other

2. Dan Shaughnessy, The Boston Globe (1), 46 points

No chance Jacoby Ellsbury is staying with Red Sox

Your sports columnist is here to write, not to root

Sudden end to Bruins' magical Stanley Cup run

David Ortiz rejects talk of steroid use

Boston Marathon will never be the same

3. Dan Wetzel, Yahoo! Sports, 44 points

Michigan star Trey Burke pays high regard to Rumeal Robinson, who'll be watching from prison

Harbaugh family tree branches out to comfort, celebrate Jim and John in emotional locker rooms

Johnny Manziel's suspension exposes ridiculousness of NCAA's double standards

Fourteen-year-old Tianlang Guan's mom has everything covered as he begins Masters journey

Scene at Daytona 'was like a war zone'

4. Tim Kawakami, The Mercury News, 34 points

In the first crisis moment of the Jim Harbaugh era, the 49ers fail, and fail badly

San Francisco Giants overpay Tim Lincecum for a reason

How Colin Kaepernick stole the job as 49ers quarterback

Are the Warriors a better playoff team without David Lee? You see it, you know it, and here’s why it’s true

Jim Harbaugh and Pete Carroll: How the rivalry began, what it tells us about both, and why it endures

5. Matt Hayes, Sporting News, 32 points

Like it or not, Jameis Winston is part of broken process

Carlos Hyde saves Buckeyes, but never should have played

Johnny Manziel can blame only Johnny Look At Me for troubles

Baylor's new look: Lots of wins, top talent and playing for titles

Auburn vs. Alabama: It's the Tigers' state now

6. Chris Gasper, The Boston Globe, 28 points

Patriots dropped the ball with Wes Welker

Johnny Manziel case latest example of NCAA hypocrisy

This Red Sox team achieved greatness quickly

NFL must take a stand on bullying and hazing

NHL losing fight with hypocrisy

7. David Lennon, Newsday, 23 points

Mets need to make a decision on Jordany Valdespin

Yankees know Robinson Cano is money

For baseball, instant replay is quite a challenge

MLB declares open season on A-Rod

Sources: Major changes coming to Japanese player posting system

8. Jill Painter, Los Angeles News Group, 23 points

Meet the Kings' Darryl Sutter — the quirky L.A. coach who knows how to win

Angel Cabrera, Adam Scott deserve thumbs up

UCLA on best behavior before Sun Bowl

Dwight Howard should do more than walk off the court

Awkward news conference begs question if Don Mattingly will return for Dodgers

9. Mike Wise, The Washington Post, 22 points

For Washington Redskins’ Alfred Morris, it’s too good to be believed

Colin Kaepernick isn’t out of central casting, but he may become new poster boy

Steve Gleason remains the spirit of New Orleans

Chief Zee, the Redskins and the setting sun

A word you shouldn’t use in any sentence

10. Steve Rosenbloom, Chicago Tribune, 21 points

Chicago Blackhawks keep their promise

Bears' defense saves dumbest for last

NHL has to suspend Boychuk for hit on Toews' head

How do Bulls find the superstar Rose never will be again?

NFL must think we're all brain-damaged

75,001 to 175,000

1. Paul Daugherty, Cincinnati Enquirer (1), 50 points

Joey Votto isn't big on baseball questions

Elder's Jack James doesn't play undersized  (No link available)

Kremer's 'Next' should be respect, inclusion, acceptance

Urban Meyer and the blame game

With Collins' announcement, big picture missed

2. Nathan Fenno, The Washington Times (3), 46 points

For Victor Page, reality of fall from stardom difficult to grasp

Honestly, Mike Shanahan, why should we believe you now?

Pat White return to NFL would set troubling precedent

Student-athletes’ cups run dry as NCAA fills up

Mike Shanahan can’t escape shadow of past success

3. Bob Kravitz, Indianapolis Star (1), 44 points

Jim Irsay opens up to Bob Kravitz

Bob Kravitz writes an open letter to Peyton Manning

Olympic boycott over Russian anti-gay laws would deny defiant athletes a stage for protest

Is racism root of Indiana Pacers' poor attendance?

Brad Stevens talks about leaving Butler, Boston coaching job

4. Jenni Carlson, The Oklahoman (1), 38 points

8-year-old brings 80 pairs of shoes for Moore victims to Kevin Durant's camp

The best season ever: Why one season of T-ball meant the world to one Edmond family

Hugo's Trey Johnson not alone with pain

Life-saving meds cheat Roger Wenzel out of competing

Mr. Bedlam (Blake Bell) strikes again

5. Martin Fennelly, The Tampa Tribune, 32 points

Time for Bucs' Barber to go, on his terms (No link)

Trickle made name for himself

Draft day could be almost perfect for Durant star Danish

Willie, now is the time to do something

QB change won't end Bucs circus

6. Gordon Monson, The Salt Lake Tribune, 31 points

In Cooperstown, a little baseball magic from a special Utah kid

BYU football conquers demons in big win

Coaches are opportunists, not saints

Cheaters win in baseball and beyond

Remembering BYU, Raider great Todd Christensen

7. Tom Shatel, Omaha (Neb.) World-Herald, 27 points

One … more … year! Or one … more … year?

Creighton goes from mid to major

Cameras catch little of Jack's long journey

Fixing old times for an old hero, Tom Watson

Pelini's words, deeds may have put it on a tee for athletic director

8. Mike Imrem, The Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, Ill.), 23 points

Maybe Derrick Rose shouldn't wait to play next time

Bottom line: A slur is a slur is a slur

Nothing quite like that '63 Bears team

Two worlds: celebration and tragedy

Bulls show us anything's possible

9. Luke DeCock, The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.), 22 points

It's not me, NCAA tournament, it's you

Canes GM Rutherford should review own performance

UNC faculty silence has spoken volumes

Hockey diplomacy was Tripp Tracy's only hope to rescue brother

DeCock: Bigger issues at stake than football, Heisman in Jameis Winston.

10. David Climer, The Tennessean (Nashville), 17 points

Have the Titans evolved into the Raiders? 

Meet SEC's Most Vilified Player: Ole Miss menace Marshall Henderson

Vanderbilt needs to repair its front porch

April 14, 2014 column from Masters (STILL NEED LINK)

Tennessee Titans should fire Mike Munchak

30,001 to 75,000

1. Kirk Wessler, Journal Star (Peoria, Ill.), (1), 53 points

Will Egolf's health more important than playing ball

Bradley basketball players reach out to the next generation

Shopping for stadium alternative

Guess what? The Illini offense is a fun bunch

Why doesn't anyone talk about Jim Thome?

2. John Blanchette, The Spokesman-Review (Spokane, Wash.), (2), 41 points

Sweeney kept perspective and humor

Shoe definitely fits for Indians’ Joe Jackson

Former G-Prep standout Gleason’s jersey retired

Two big league managers from GSL: What are the odds?

It was high time to watch the clock

3. Dan Hinxman, Reno Gazette-Journal, (1), 38 points

From the heart — Kaepernick shows he's always had touch off the field

Pulling the plug on Carter would be premature

Legacy of leather and lineage: Olivas to Martino the key link in Nevada boxing's coaching history

With Collins, Polian epitomizes acceptance from a new generation

'Tomorrow's triumph'

4. John McGrath, Tacoma (Wash.) News Tribune, 35 points

Baseball lifers Brown, Stearns take new roles

Anguish foreshadowed in Rodriguez’s first season

For one day at least, Turkey Day game reclaims status (NOT AVAILABLE)

Okung’s injury trademark of team on road to Super Bowl

Unconventional wisdom of ‘Positive Pete’ might catch on

5. David Ramsey, The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 34 points

Many Native Americans despise revolting Washington Redskins nickname

American Olympic athletes should discard the umbrella of safe silence

Simla 1936 Olympic decathlon champ Glenn Morris reached dizzying heights before fall

Soaring Sherlock Holmes flies on in memory 20 years after death

Lance Armstrong dwells East of Eden in bad place of his doing

6. (tie) Kevin Duffy, Connecticut Post (Bridgeport), 31 points

Cotto just another obstacle for Danbury's Rodriguez

Bridgeport trio tries to rise above the streets through basketball

Calhoun may be retired as coach, but he's still pushing UConn

Has your anger with Edsall changed to anger with UConn?

Anything's possible for Ansonia's Newsome

(tie) Anthony Stastny, Savannah (Ga.) Morning News, 31 points

Southern football faces another transition

Talent alone won't give Manziel a pass

Don't feel cheated by golfers

About time to fix America's pasttime

Money talks too much in college football

(tie) Paul Klee, The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.), 31 points

Need a hero? Try the families at the Warrior Games

Welcome, Terrelle Tebow – Broncos have seen this act before

Fallen soldier was a Bronco, a hero and one of us

NFL deserves a penalty flag for Joe Flacco flags at Mile High

Wow! On a wild, wild Texas day, Broncos answer 'How?'

9. Bob Padecky, Santa Rosa (Calif.) Press Democrat, 21 points

How much should we protect our young athletes?

Newman coach’s faith keeps him away from temptation

Clear Lake is the spot for bass

Mendocino football has sights to see

A family's toughest battle

10. Stephen Schramm, The Fayetteville (N.C.) Observer, 15 points

Fighters take differing paths, carry similar weight into debut

Shellshocked Wolfpack's loss to Deacons does not compute

Around here, Tar Heels-Wolfpack rivalry is as intense as any

'Moe' has unique view of old friend Mike Krzyzewski's success

Blue Devils end up playing supporting role in Cardinals' Final Four story

UNDER 30,000

1. Joe Walljasper, Columbia (Mo.) Daily Tribune, (6), 60 points

Anderson puzzled by bitterness

He's someone else's problem … or solution

Tigers' talent never added up

Guilty or not, a fortunate end for Haith

Tigers prove they have SEC substance

2. Tim Trower, Mail Tribune (Medford, Ore.), 45 points

Paying it forward on the golf course (Pay Wall)

Air supply keeps golfer Bailey in the swing

Giving back to those who served

Former Medford golfer hits it big with aces

Putting ban not a big hit with some

3. John Bednarowski, Marietta (Ga.) Daily Journal, 38 points

KSU needn’t go far to find its first football coach

Koester deserves chance to coach

Overcoming early jitters, Mason wins for Bulldogs

GHSA does Cobb no favors

Bohannon has Cobb coaches’ seal of approval

4. Ryan Howe, Twin Falls (Idaho) Times-News, 36 points

I'll Trade You a Devin Kunz for Your Jared Price!

Time's Right for Petersen, Boise State to Part

'Twas the Night Before Christmas When All Through Boise State…

Twitter a Challenge for College Sports Programs

Fickle Fans Fooled by FCS Foe

5. Rachel Crader, Southeast Missourian (Cape Girardeau, Mo.), 33 points

Press release more surprising than Samuel's release

Taking my nephew to his first Cardinals game

New Southeast coach Tom Matukewicz makes most of first impression

Otto Porter's message for kids

Otto Porter stays true to form all the way to NBA

6. Steve Heiser, The York (Pa.) Dispatch, 27 points

Dover's Kuhn saves season for Green Bay Packers

Five men who face daunting task

PIAA right to institute heat policy

Father, son have super Super Bowl

Don't become too invested in O'Brien

7. Cecil Hurt, The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) News, 25 points

Let Manziel play (Behind Rivals pay wall)

UA, accused better off cutting ties

Title was won in Atlanta

Mal Moore, Alabama a match made in heaven

Super 6 features the best of football, and not just in terms of talent

8. Mike Szvetitz, Opelika-Auburn News (Opelika, Ala.), 24 points

Bo Jackson the greatest athlete ever? It’s hard to argue otherwise

Perspective key when assessing Barbee’s future

Louis’ catch, Auburn's turnaround stuff of legends

Eyewitness to history: What I think I saw after Auburn's Iron Bowl win

Pawlowski's firing proves once again that winning is most important

Remembering Melanie, and the 2004 Red Sox

Belichick, tell it like it is

Brady, Patriots left with nothing but disappointment

Facing the music, and the future, in Foxboro

Reflections on a week unlike any other

10. Chris Stevens, Midland (Mich.) Daily News, 20 points

Time to be set free, Lions' fans

Steroids in pro sports? Maybe it’s time to say ‘yes’

Who's showing more courage — Broussard or Collins?

Be courageous, play football

Tigers need to be bold and trade ….

EXPLANATORY WRITING

OVER 175,000

1. John Branch, Adam Skolnick, William J. Broad and Mary Pilon, The New York Times, (2) 56 points

A Diver’s Rise, and Swift Death, at the Limits of a Growing Sport

2. Mick McCabe, Mark Snyder and David Jesse, Detroit Free Press, (2), 40 points

Players' shocking allegations against former NCAA women's basketball coach

3. Mike Vorkunov, The Star-Ledger (Newark, N.J.), 39 points

Rutgers' Mike Rice among 3 coaches to wear heart monitors to show health effects

4. Travis Sawchik, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, 36 points

Aggressive defensive plan has led to Pirates' turnaround

5. Mark Zeigler, U-T San Diego, (1), 34 points

Piracy: Sports leagues' biggest problem?

6. Joseph Duarte, Houston Chronicle, 31 points

For injured UH player, every second counted in survival

7. Ken Berger, CBSSports.com, (1), 30 points

Nutrition in the NBA; Part I: Lessons learned in L.A. help Howard's career

8. (tie) Tim Tucker, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 22 points

How Braves executives quickly, quietly navigated Cobb deal

9. (tie) Shawn Windsor, Detroit Free Press, 22 points

BMX bikers turn neglected Detroit land into their own playground

10. Geoff Baker, The Seattle Times, 20 points

Dysfunction at the top: Eric Wedge, others point to trouble in Mariners’ front office

75,001 TO 175,000

1. Nathan Fenno, The Washington Times, (3), 56 points

Frostburg State football player pressured back on field after blows to the head dies

2. Zak Keefer, Indianapolis Star, (2), 41 points

Brad Stevens leaves for the Boston Celtics: The day that rocked Butler University

3. Jill Riepenhoff and Mike Wagner, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch, 39 points

Rule often keeps athletes who switch high schools on the bench

4. Todd Jones, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch, (1) 37 points

Rhabdomyolysis laid low 6 athletes

5 (tie). Justin Barney, Florida Times-Union (Jacksonville), 30 points

Ryan Freel: Full speed, crashing end

5 (tie). John Whisler, San Antonio Express-News, 30 points

Weigh-in continues on heated headgear debate

7. Jason Wolf, The News Journal (Wilmington, Del.), 27 points

Eagles prepare to debut innovative signs of the times

8. Aaron Falk, Chris Kamrani, Kurt Kragthorpe and Tony Semerad, The Salt Lake Tribune, 25 points

Pacific Islanders change the face of football in Utah

9. Harry Minium, The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk, Va.), 24 points

A lot of work in not much time for ODU's big move

10. Berry Tramel, The Oklahoman, 21 points

College football: Ejection will put some teeth in NCAA's targeting policy

30,001 to 75,000

1. Ira Schoffel and Doug Blackburn, Tallahassee (Fla.) Democrat, (1), 53 points

Swofford's Tallahassee trips helped sell FSU on ACC deal

2. Emily LeCoz, The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Miss.), (2), 45 points

Doping scandal haunts former cyclist Tammy Thomas

3. Isabelle Khurshudyan, The State (Columbia, S.C.), (1), 42 points

Heart of the matter: Keeping high school athletes healthy

4. Ken Willis and Lyda Longa, The News-Journal (Daytona Beach, Fla.), (2), 39 points

Rise and Fall: Jermaine Green's promising story goes horribly wrong

5. Dave Fairbank, Daily Press (Newport News, Va.), 35 points

HBCUs work to improve NCAA academic guideline scores

6. Todd Porter, The Repository (Canton, Ohio), 31 points

OHSAA looks to level the playing field

7. Duane Rankin, Montgomery (Ala.) Advertiser, 28 points

NFL Draft: Montgomery's No. 1 pick Aundray Bruce reflects on his journey to the top

8. (tie) Andy Bitter, The (Va.) Roanoke Times, 22 points

One-day football camps have become a win-win deal

(tie) Taft Coghill Jr., The Free Lance-Star (Fredericksburg, Va.), 22 points

Plan. Teach. Inspire. Console. The reward? You’re fired. High school coaches pay price when expectations fall short

10. Mark Podolski, The News-Herald (Willoughby, Ohio), 13 points

Chief Wahoo caricature controversy still hot topic

UNDER 30,000

1. Jim Seimas, Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.), (1), 50 points

Youth baseball rankings disconcerting for many parents, coaches and players

2. Brad Elliott Schlossman, Grand Forks (N.D.) Herald, (3), 42 points

COLLEGE HOCKEY: Recruiting younger players yields mixed results

3. Dan Goldman, Messenger Post Media (Canandaigua, N.Y.), (1), 41 points

Game Changer? The helmet debate in girls lacrosse

4. Ross Dellenger, Columbia (Mo.) Daily Tribune, 38 points

Lack of academic scholarships puts MU at disadvantage

5. Tommy Deas, The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) News, (1), 36 points

'A rising Tide lifts all boats'

6. Alex Riley, Wyoming Tribune Eagle (Cheyenne), 33 points

Burns track team adapts to life without a track

7. Andrew Wagaman, Columbia Missourian, 31 points

Concussion worries cause tension in Columbia's youth football community

8. Ryan Wood, Opelika-Auburn News (Opelika, Ala.), 28 points

A LONG TIME COMING: Auburn set to host inaugural SEC Equestrian Championship

9. Bob Blubaugh, Carroll County Times (Westminster, Md.), 18 points

Liberty's Crouch returns to the gridiron; Should kickoffs be removed?

10. Ross Jacobson, Daily Chronicle (DeKalb, Ill.), 13 points

As more girls play sports, fewer women have coaching jobs

 

FEATURE WRITING

OVER 175,000

1. Eric Adelson, Yahoo! Sports (3), 54 points

Prison rodeo

2. Jere' Longman, Taylor Barnes, The New York Times, (1), 44 points

A Yellow Card, Then Unfathomable Violence, in Brazil

3. Matthew Stanmyre, The Star-Ledger (Newark, N.J.) (1), 43 points

A holiday lesson: One young N.J. athlete's devotion to his sick mother

4 (tie). Mary Pilon, The New York Times, 38 points

Tomato Can Blues

4 (tie). Jeff Passan, Yahoo! Sports, (1), 38 points

Coast Guard crew reflects on time with Yasiel Puig during attempt to defect to U.S.

6. Linda Robertson, Miami Herald, 31 points

Diana Nyad: Cuba-to-Florida swim was ‘squeaky clean’

7. Kent Babb, The Washington Post, 24 points

Allen Iverson, NBA icon, struggles with life after basketball

8. Paola Boivin, The Arizona Republic, 22 points

Transgender golfer dreams of playing in LPGA

9. Brent Schrotenboer, USA Today Sports, 21 points

Digging into the past of NCAA President Mark Emmert

10. Bruce Feldman, CBSSports.com, 15 points

All-Access: A behind-the-scenes look at how A&M prepared for Alabama

 

75,001 to 175,000

1. Paul Daugherty, Cincinnati Enquirer, (2), 54 points

Ex-Bengal Reggie Williams fighting to save his leg

2. Perryn Keys, The Advocate (Baton Rouge, La.), (2), 46 points

The zen of Steve Gleason — always up to the challenge

THE DISAPPEARANCE OF SMALL-TOWN FOOTBALL

4. Evan Woodbery, Knoxville (Tenn.) News Sentinel, 39 points

A trip home to Saugatuck

Vanderbilt coach James Franklin maintains around-the-clock intensity

6. Geoff Calkins, The Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tenn.), 34 points

Southwest Community College player wins in and on court

7. Jenni Carlson, The Oklahoman, 32 points

How 105-year-old Delmar Hopkins became a Remington Park icon

8. Kyle Veazey, The Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tenn.), 22 points

Roots of the Grind: To see what made the Memphis Grizzlies’ Tony Allen, take a visit to Chicago’s South Side (Pay wall)

9. Rich Campbell, The Washington Times, 13 points

Redskins receiver Leonard Hankerson learning to manage family life with football career

10. Todd Jones, The Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch, 11 points

NBA: Sullinger quietly making an impression

30,001 TO 75,000

1. David Fairbank, Daily Press (Newport News, Va.), (4), 61 points

William and Mary's Tutwiler survives 'miracle' ordeal and recovery

2. Dan DeFrancesco, The Journal News (White Plains, N.Y.), (3), 54 points

Volleyball eases transgender player's transition

3. Billy Watkins, The Clarion-Ledger (Jackson, Miss.), 47 points

Pascagoula football team coping, pushing forward five months after players' deaths

4. Marcus Jackson, The News-Gazette (Champaign, Ill.), 41 points

Brody still benefiting from leap of faith

5. Scott Dochterman, The Gazette (Cedar Rapids, Iowa), 38 points

Chris Street’s legacy endures at Iowa, 20 years later

6. Kenny Ryan, Corpus Christi (Texas) Caller-Times, 35 points

Santa Gertrudis Academy graduate receives new heart, lives life to its fullest for her donor and herself (PAY WALL)

7. (tie) Phil Barber, The Press Democrat (Santa Rosa, Calif.), 32 points

Catching up, finally, with Amber Trotter

(tie) Scott Michaux, The Augusta (Ga.) Chronicle, 32 points

Bubba's Way

9. Greg Rajan, Corpus Christi (Texas) Caller-Times, 24 points

Chasing the dream: Former Hooks broadcaster Matt Hicks takes long road to majors

10. Eric Hansen, South Bend (Ind.) Tribune, 21 points

Notre Dame football: Nix’s future comes with a big smile

UNDER 30,000

1. Tom Green, Opelika-Auburn News (Opelika, Ala.), (1), 49 points

PEACE OF MIND: Beulah quarterback walks away from game after multiple concussions

2 (tie). Matthew Peaslee, Tribune Chronicle (Warren, Ohio), (1) 45 points

Battling back

2 (tie). Ryan Wood, Opelika-Auburn News (Opelika, Ala.), 45 points

A COSTLY LEGACY: Auburn's greatest receiver Terry Beasley paid a price for hall of fame career

4. Clay Whittington, Killeen (Texas) Daily Herald, (2), 43 points

Lampasas great Johnny ‘Lam’ Jones’ life defined, altered by one magical lap

5. Jim Seimas, Santa Cruz Sentinel (Scotts Valley, Calif.), (1), 33 points

An NBA Assist: Ex-pro Ken Sears spending time with basketball-loving patient John Burton at a Watsonville hospital

6. Nathan Baird, Journal & Courier (Lafayette, Ind.), 31 points

THE SPIRIT OF JIMMY DEBOY LIVES ON IN HIS BIG BROTHER RYAN

7. David Morrison, Columbia (Mo.) Daily Tribune, 28 points

Missouri's Copeland lives life to the Max

8. Tommy Deas, The Tuscaloosa (Ala.) News, 23 points

Paul W. Bryant Jr.: A legacy of his own

9. Jason Galloway, Opelika-Auburn News (Opelika, Ala.), 17 points

PREP SOFTBALL: Opelika grad Sierra Keeling overcomes unstable childhood to succeed in life, softball

10. Whitelaw Reid, The Daily Progress (Charlottesville, Va.), 16 points

Virginia guard Teven Jones beats the streets

INVESTIGATIVE 

All Categories

1. Teri Thompson, Nathaniel Vinton, Michael O'Keeffe, Christian Red and Bill Madden, New York Daily News (4), 59 points

Feds, MLB probe adviser, who has worked closely with Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez, for possible performance-enhancing drugs link

Source: At least 20 MLB players linked to Anthony Bosch who is target of probe into illegal distribution of HGH and testosterone

Alex Rodriguez suspension expected Sunday or Monday, and his options are a lifetime ban or 200-game suspension

If Yankees' Alex Rodriguez is willing to fight suspension, he'd better prepare for dirty details to get out

Alex Rodriguez's dirty secret! Yankees slugger sought performance help in hush-hush meet with reformed BALCO kingpin Victor Conte

What does Alex Rodriguez hope to accomplish by following Lance Armstrong's legal blueprint?

Turbulent offseason continues for Yankees' Alex Rodriguez, as MLB investigators still looking into Dr. Anthony Galea's PED operation

Alex Rodriguez lawyer nearly fights Anthony Bosch's attorney at MLB offices

Biogenesis records that link MLB players to PEDs are for sale to highest bidder

Alex Rodriguez walks out of MLB’s arbitration hearing, slams Bud Selig on Mike Francesa's radio show

Sources: Alex Rodriguez bought Biogenesis documents as MLB probe into latest doping scandal intensifies

Police arrest man, 20, in connection with car break-in at center of Biogenesis scandal

Yankees' Alex Rodriguez may be obstructing Biogenesis probe

MLB done talking with Alex Rodriguez, who faces 214-game ban on Monday after latest outburst

Bernard Kerik, the disgraced former NYPD commissioner, accuses attorney Joe Tacopina of fraud, deceit, misrepresentation and list of other legal abuses  

2. Ken Bensinger, Armand Emamdjomeh and Maloy Moore, Los Angeles Times, (1), 49 points

Brain injuries a big problem for NFL in California

Injury claims by professional football players (includes tabs for MLB, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS)

NFL dodges a bullet in proposed concussion settlement

California limits workers' comp sports injury claims

State panel rejected injury claim by NFL's Dorsett

3. Dan Kane, The News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.), (1), 43 points

Former UNC African studies chairman had close ties to athletic counselors

UNC faculty leader pushed rewrite of key report to keep NCAA away

NCAA unlikely to punish UNC for academic fraud, new documents show

Former UNC-CH African studies chairman indicted by grand jury

6 reviews and investigations have looked into UNC African studies department

No makeup offered for many suspected 'no-show' classes at UNC-CH

4. Rand Getlin and Charles Robinson, Yahoo! Sports, 42 points

Documents, text messages reveal impermissible benefits to five SEC players

5. Craig Wolff, The Star-Ledger (Newark, N.J.), 41 points

Rutgers' new athletic director faces fresh questions about her past

Rutgers president Robert Barchi stands behind hiring of Julie Hermann

Chris Christie on Julie Hermann situation: 'Let Rutgers handle it'

Response to Julie Hermann allegations infuriates ex-Tennessee players

Embattled Julie Hermann says she's up to the task of being Rutgers A.D.

6. Scott M. Reid, The Orange County Register (Santa Ana, Calif.), 38 points

Documents detail allegations of swim-coach impropriety

O.C. swim coach banned for life; other coach resigns

Documents reveal brevity of investigation into swim coach

Golden West president recharacterizes view of swim investigation

Catholic group aims lobbying effort at sex-abuse case window

Jewell given 3-year ban by USA Swimming

USA Swimming hires lobbying firm to fight bill

USA Swimming works to contain sex-abuse scandals

7. Steve Eder, Richard Sandomir and James Andrew Miller, The New York Times, 37 points

College Football’s Most Dominant Player? It’s ESPN

At Louisville, Athletic Boom Is Rooted in ESPN Partnership

To Protect Its Empire, ESPN Stays on Offense

8. Bob Hohler, The Boston Globe, 36 points

The concussion doctor’s tangled interests

The concussion doctor’s connections

9. Philip Hersh and Jared Hopkins, Chicago Tribune, 22 points

On thin ice

6 skaters demand USS Speedskating reorganization

Speedskating director Greenwald stepping down

US Speedskating revamps bylaws

10. Brent Schrotenboer, USA TODAY Sports, 18 points

USA TODAY Sports investigation: Holes in stadium security

MULTIMEDIA

OVER 2 MILLION UNIQUE VISITORS