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Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

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TIGER WOODS, FURYK BOUNCED FROM ACCENTURE MATCH PLAY CHAMPIONSHIP

Former UofA golfer Jim Furyk gazes at his 2010 PGA Tour Player of the Year trophy. Furyk, who was eliminated in the first round of the Accenture Match Play Championships, has seen better days on the golf course. Luckily for him, it's a very long season. Allan Henry-US PRESSWIRE

A former University of Arizona golfer will not win this year’s World Golf Championship-Accenture Match Play Championship held in the backyard of their old stomping grounds.

Nor will any past PGA Tour ‘Player of the Year’ winners – of which ex-Wildcat Jim Furyk is both.

Furyk (2010 PGA POTY), Tiger Woods (2009 and eight other times) and Padraig Harrington (2008) were all eliminated in first round action on Wednesday in Marana, Ariz.-tournament that pits the top 64 World Golf money earners against one another in a March Madness-style tourney.

Furyk, the No. 10 seed, lost his opening round match to Ryan Palmer (2 up). Woods, No. 3, saw his comeback fall short in an extra hole to No. 62 Thomas Bjorn. Harrington, No. 30, lost to former Match Play champ Geoff Ogilvy.

The former Wildcats’ PGA Player of the Year title defense has gotten off to a sluggish start. Furyk has made the cut in only two of the four tournaments he’s played in, and finished in the top-25 once.

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While the top 64 World Golf money earners square off in the outskirts of Tucson, the balance of the PGA Tour is basking in the Mexican sun and sand traps at the Mayakoba Golf Classic at Riviera Maya-Cancun. That includes former Wildcats Robert Gamez, Ted Purdy and Rory Sabbatini.

“Sticks are finally thawing out for Cancun. I’m ready for some golf.”

- University of Arizona sports hall of famer Ted Purdy, via Twitter

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TWITTER

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 “business project number 2…. complete. aye nothing but basketball on my mind this week/weekend now!”

- That’s good news for Arizona forward Derrick Williams and bad news for Southern California and UCLA, the Wildcats’ opponents this week

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“Today my brother Austin would be 5 years old. Love n’ miss my lil angel. Happy Bday bro”

- Arizona guard Brendon Lavender reminding us all that life isn’t always about sports

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“life is so good right now. Ball is great. Got the best girlfriend in the world and az is back to where it was. Just wish my bro was here 2c”

- Lavender’s teammate Kevin Parrom doing the same

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“Not going to Lie, feels good to have the spikes back on!!”

- Former Wildcat golfer Ricky Barnes, who’s played in two PGA events so far this season

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“The car next to meat sonic is stuck”

- Arizona wide receiver Dan Buckner, accidentally splicing two words together with an appropriate Freudian slip

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“Just left foot locker northpark mall its official the REEBOK JET SHARK shoe is on the runway only 24 pair available”

- Better get your pair of the new Jason Terry (AKA the ‘Jet’) sneakers before someone else takes off with them

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“Please teach your children water safety and if you don’t know how to swim it’s never too late to learn!!!”

- When a former Wildcat swim star and Olympic medalist such as Amanda Beard gives you swimming advice, you’d best listen

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“Ace gets pumped for #Taco Bell like it’s Chuck E’ Cheese! Def- our boy! ”

- Once you’re retired and have had the career that former Wildcat softball star Jennie Finch has had, you and your son can eat anything you’d like…you can also name your kid Ace

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“Best of luck to all the LPGA players!… enjoy Asia!”

- Former ‘Cat and retired PLGA Player of the Year Lorena Ochoa wishing her peers well on the start of the 2011 season

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“On my way to the golf course to play a little golf, one of the best places for business transactions… Ha! Lehgo!”

- Former Wildcat and current St. Louis Ram Fendi Onobun learning the nuances of big business

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“I dislike when people smoke around me.. I hate the smell of cigarets !!”

- The only smoke Arizona cornerback Robert Golden likes to inhale is the kind created by the pre-game fireworks at Arizona Stadium

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“Yesterday I worked 12 hours and really only “worked” 1 hour. These entertainment folks are a special breed. #fb”

- No rat race for ex-Wildcat track and field star Brianna Glenn

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Former Wildcat walk-on David Bagga is the author of a new book entitled "The Walk-On."

BOOK

You’ve seen the guys at the end of every bench in NCAA basketball. They’re the role players jumping up and down, but not seeing much action. That doesn’t mean the action isn’t an everyday occurrence in their world.

David Bagga is rehashing the years he spent as a walk-on player for the Arizona basketball team in his new book appropriately named: The Walk On.

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AMAZON.COM PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

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“THE WALK-ON is a story about a young man and how he experiences the game of college basketball through his eyes, telling people what it is like going through the rigorous routine of being a division 1 athlete for one of the best basketball programs arguably in the country and finding out what the journey is all about. He experiences many highs and lows throughout the way but shows that inspiration, determination, a good work ethic and a team first attitude is what it takes to make the experience a great one. Playing for 3 coaches in 4 years David shows what it is like adapting to different methodologies and coming together with a group of guys from all around the country to make up a team.
 
David Bagga was a Student-Athlete at the University of Arizona from 2005-2009 and had the privilege of playing for legendary Hall of Fame basketball Coach Lute Olson. He was also teammates with current NBA players Chase Budinger, Jerryd Bayless, Jordan Hill, Marcus Williams, and Hassan Adams. He graduated from the University of Arizona in June of 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and currently resides in Orange County, California.
 
“David is a very team oriented player, all he wants to do is help us win basketball games.” – Hall of fame coach Lute Olson”

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NEWS
 

Jennie Finch has a new position that will keep her around her beloved sport of softball. The National Pro Fastpitch League named the former Wildcat hurler to its newly created NPF Board of Advisors, along with Arizona head coach Mike Candrea. The Arizona duo joins the 10-member panel that also includes tennis great Billie Jean King and baseball’s John Kruk.

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In other Finch news, make sure to read the pregnant pitcher’s celebrity blog on People Magazine’s website.

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YOUTUBE

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The LPGA is attempting to reshape its image. Using Natalie Gulbis as a spokesperson is a great start. The former Wildcat finished 18th overall in last week’s season-opening Honda LPGA-Thailand tournament. That’s one tournament down and one modest check for $17,444 deposited into the 28-year-old’s bank account. This week, Gulbis is staying in the Pacific Rim and competing in Singapore’s HSBC Championships.

Bear Down…and Blog!

Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

OBAMA SPEECH EDITION

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PHOTO

New York Jets place kicker Nick Folk (2) reacts after he it the game-winning field goal with no time remaining in the fourth quarter as the New York Jets defeat the Indianapolis Colts, 17-16, to win the AFC Wildcard playoff game at Lucas Oil Stadium. Andrew Mills/The Star-Ledger

Nick Folk highlighted the NFL’s Wildcard weekend last week when the former Wildcat booted the New York Jets passed Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts. The placekicker isn’t the only Arizona alum still suiting up in the NFL’s postseason. Other Wildcats still chasing a Super Bowl ring:

Lance Briggs, LB         Chicago Bears

Nick Folk, PK            New York Jets

Rob Gronkowski, TE       New England Patriots

Brandon Manumaleuna, TE       Chicago Bears

Vuna Tuihalamaka, LB        Seattle Seahawks*

*On Seahawk roster but hasn’t played yet this season for Seattle

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NEWS

San Diego Padre closer and former Wildcat shortstop Trevor Hoffman called it a career on Wednesday, leaving baseball as the game’s all-time saves leader with 601. Hoffman is now eligible for the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown in 2016 along with surefire first-balloter Ken Griffey Jr.

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TWITTER

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PAST AND PRESENT WILDCATS REACT TO OBAMA’S McKALE CENTER SPEECH

“President Obama is amazing!”

- Former Wildcat and Harlem Globetrotter Eugene Edgerson

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“Watched President Obama speak @ the Tucson Memorial Svc. So proud 2c the turnout @ McKale! U r amazing Tucson! …”

- Leneah Manuma, former softball player 

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“I can’t even get shots up because he’s on campus”

- Arizona forward Solomon Hill bemoaning a lack of time and space to get some practice in

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“Proud and honored to be from the University of Arizona! Amazing event taking place right now in McKale!

- Taryne Mowatt, ex-softball star Tweeting from her seat in McKale Center

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“RT @nerdymcfly: All eyes are on my adopted city. Wish I was in Tucson for this ceremony.”

- Ex-Wildcat basketball player and current St. Louis Ram tight end Fendi Onobun

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“Obama is the s%#@”

- Volleyball player Courtney Karst

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“Great Memories”

- Arizona guard Brendon Lavender

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“A lil late I know but just watched Obama’s speech! Wow! Very moving! Heartfelt speech! Also, proud to call Tucson my 2nd home!!!!”

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- Former softball player Toni Mascarenas

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“why is everyone waiting 8 hours in line to hear obama talk??? hes gonna sound the same on tv!!!!”

- Arizona hoops reserved Max Wiepking, the same guy who preceded this Tweet with this gem:

“i would do anything for some sausage mcgriddles right now”

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WEB

After being traded for the second time in less than a month, former Wildcat guard Jerryd Bayless has a new home with the Toronto Raptors – to go along with his new suave image. Bayless launched his new website on Dec. 13, a catchall for news, blogging and shopping all things Jerryd.

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YOUTUBE

What happens when you score 10 touchdowns as a rookie tight end and help the New England Patriots to a division title and No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs? Rappers start busting rhymes about you. Just ask ex-Cat Rob Gronkowski.

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Bear Down…and Blog!

Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

SPECIAL ZENDEJAS EDITION

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PHOTO

MEET ALEX ZENDEJAS JR.

He's won PAC-10 Player of the Week honors, earned the praise and game ball award from Mike Stoops and singlehandedly propelled Arizona passed ASU. On Thursday, Alex Zendejas went from kicker to goat after missing two crucial PATs against the Sun Devils in the Territorial Cup. Chris Morrison-US PRESSWIRE

With a handle such as theirs, you’d almost expect the Zendejas family to be well-versed in the high-flying trapeze arts.

The Zendejas clan is, in fact, a proud brood of kickers — even if Thursday’s Territorial Cup ended with a circus-like atmosphere, thanks to Arizona kicker Alex Zendejas Jr.

Alex Jr. is the latest in a long lineage of placekickers; the most notable being his uncles Luis Zendejas and Tony Zendejas.

Against ASU on Thursday, the Zendejas family found themselves back in the national spotlight when Alex Jr. had two crucial PAT attempts blocked by Arizona State defensive end James Brooks in the final minutes of regulation and overtime.

Luis only played in 31 NFL games as a place kicker with the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys, but he certainly left his mark in football lore.

The Mexico City native was infamously the target of a $200 bounty issued by his former Eagles’ coach Buddy Ryan in a Thanksgiving game unfortunately dubbed the “Bounty Bowl.”

Tony Zendejas played for 10 seasons with the Houston Oilers, Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers. He even had a stint with the Los Angeles Express of the USFL.

Perhaps Alex’s struggles against ASU were a way to placate his uncle. Luis — the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer after his playing days — was a proud Sun Devil.

Even closer to home is Alex Jr.’s uncle, Max Zendejas - a UA hall of famer. Max left Tucson for stints in the NFL with Washington and Green Bay, but not before wracking up the third-most points NCAA history at the time. As Tucson Citizen’s Javier Morales pointed out: Max had to be coaxed out of the locker room after missing a big, late kick against Georgia in the 1985 Sun Bowl. Instead, that game ended in a 13-all tie.

With the genetic disposition of the Zendejas family, recovery isn’t out of the question for Alex Jr.

Chances are, however, the economics major didn’t step foot into the Eller Business school anytime today.

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TWITTER

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< WILDCAT NATION WEIGHS IN ON THE TERRITORIAL CUP >

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“Just spoke w/ @alamobowl and we are still a very strong possibility for their game. Will be talking w/other bowls as well today.”

“This was not on one individual, there were a # of plays that easily could have gone in our favor that would have changed outcome.”

- Arizona Athletic Director Greg Byrne.

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“How is arizona going to lose that game last night! Unreal”

- Dallas Cowboy fullback and former Wildcat Chris Gronkowski. 

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 “Up late on this halo clearing thoughts”

“kickers suck”

“yo why this (expletive deleted) zendajas a trendin topic on twitter he trash #zendajas”

- Arizona wide receiver Dan Buckner, who’s sitting out the season after transferring from the University of Texas, speaking big words for a guy who didn’t play a single down in the Territorial Cup.

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“I’ll rep UofA til I die. Still proud of those boys <3”

- UA Volleyball player Courtney Karst.

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“at least zendejas is a trending topic on twitter…”

- Wildcat basketball player Kyryl Natyazhko

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FACEBOOK

Fans can be so cruel, so compassionate, so stinking creative and funny:

BETTY WHITE KICKS BETTER THAN ALEX ZENDEJAS

100 PEOPLE WHO CAN KICK BETTER THAN ALEX ZENDEJAS

THE WILDCAT NATION LOVES ALEX ZENDEJAS

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YOUTUBE

Alex Zendejas has seen happier times in Tucson. In 2009, Zendejas, a former PAC-10 Player of the Week, kicked the game-winner to beat ASU, 20-17, in the Territorial Cup. His actions earned him the game ball from head coach Mike Stoops.

ARIZONA WILDCAT vs. ARIZONA STATE SUN DEVILS

As Told by the Snarky Palooka

The Arizona Wildcats can ‘forget the Alamo Bowl,’ as archrival Arizona State uses overtime theatrics to end the UA’s three-year reign as Territorial Cup champs with a 30-29 win Thursday night in Tucson

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Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict hurt his knee late in Thursday’s game against Arizona. As the saying goes in Tempe: Nobody’s Burfict.

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Siamese fighting fish: That was Robert Golden, UA vs. Deveron Carr, ASU, both players wearing uniform No. 1 getting into an early-game, one-on-one tussle. Perhaps the two cornerbacks were confused as to why both of them were on the field at the same time. 

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Arizona kicker Alex Zendejas possibly looking to fly away in the moments after having his second critical PAT attempt blocked in Arizona 30-29 loss to ASU. Chris Morrison-US PRESSWIRE

The Territorial Cup is recognized as the oldest contested trophy in the FBS.

It will remain the oldest until someone finally takes a metal detector and digs up the Jabroni Cup — jewel of the Brooklyn College vs. CCNY rivalry — from the sand of Coney Island.

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2:13 – 1Q: Thomas Weber, 52-yard FG

ASU 3, UA 0

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College football needs more running punts. This game in the first half, however, simply needs fewer punts.

It’s 3-0 after the first quarter, thanks to five punts, a Sun Devil field goal and three Arizona three-and-outs.

If I wanted an exhibition of kicking and flailing legs, I’d have gone and watched a 6th-grade gym-class soccer game — at least until someone called the authorities about a middle-aged man yelling at middle school students.

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How bad is it? Trevor Hankins of ASU squirreled a punt off his shin for net gain of 8-yards.

Not to be outdone, Arizona’s Alex Zendejas just boomed a zero-yard punt. Just wait, the night’s about to get worse for Zendejas.

In case you were wondering, Ruben Rodriguez once booted a punt -2 yards for the Seattle Seahawks.

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An ESPN commentator accused ASU quarterback Brock Osweiler of leading his receivers with his eyes…presumable instead of leading them with his rugged good looks, flannel shirt and killer survival instincts. Did I mention the axe slung over his shoulder?

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0:03 2Q – Thomas Weber, 36-yard FG

ASU 6, UA 0

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Tonight at Arizona Stadium in Tucson is senior night, which I enjoyed my sixth year at the UA.

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Some advice to expecting fathers, don’t let the Wildcat secondary hold your newborn.

That also applies to Buffalo Bills WR Stevie Johnson, who botched an easy potential game-winning-catch in overtime against Pittsburgh and then blamed God in a Tweet.

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Arizona fans were seen in the crowd wearing wigs in homage to Wildcat defensive end Brooks Reed. The long, blonde head pieces are the most popular selling headwear in the UA student bookstore since plastic “Lute Lids” were hip in the late 90s.

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The four-letter network caught Reed mouthing a four-letter word as he sauntered off the field with the Wildcats trailing 6-0 at the half.

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ESPN says it gave Lou Holtz the night off. What they didn’t tell you is that Holtz, 73, has been asleep in his barcalounger since shortly after the early-bird special.

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A loss for the Wildcats and they can “Forget the Alamo Bowl.”

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Thomas Weber after the kicker and the Sun Devils stuck a fork in Arizona's Alamo Bowl hopes. Chris Morrison-US PRESSWIRE

9:32 – 3Q: Nick Foles to Juron Criner, 28-yard TD pass (Zendejas kick)

UA 7, ASU 6

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Arizona earned more yards (91) on their opening drive of the third quarter than they did in the entire first half (83) combined.

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ESPN cameramen routinely highlighted an Arizona fan wearing a Grinch costume. What the Tucson-outsider doesn’t know, that’s actually Arizona mascot Wilbur Wildcat. His fur turns a putrid green by the final regular season game.

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2:01 – 3Q: Nick Foles to Juron Criner, 52-yard TD pass (Zendejas kick)

UA 14, ASU 0

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ESPN is saving on red screen toner, having not had to highlight the red zone through the first three quarters.

In the Sun Devils’ defense, Arizona is 12th in the nation in fewest red-zone- drives allowed with 30.

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14:21 – 4Q: Thomas Weber, 38-yard FG

UA 14, ASU 9

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Kerry Taylor catches a 2-point conversion for ASU, Taylor is the nephew of San Francisco 49er semi-great John Taylor – meaning Kerry has plenty experience being a great athlete, but second fiddle on his own team.

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7:09 – 4Q: Brock Osweiler to Mike Willie, 3-yard TD pass (Osweiler to Kerry Taylor, 2 pt)

ASU 17, UA 14

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The Arizona defense had little gas left in their tank come the fourth quarter, as ASU mounted dual fourth-quarter drives to take a 20-14 lead.

If only the UA’s Department of Agriculture and Biosystems Engineering had sped up its $2.4 million project that converts algae into biofuel.

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2:59 – 4Q: Thomas Weber, 40-yard FG

ASU 20, UA 14

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It doesn’t matter that David Douglas has two first names. What the Arizona WR has is the game-tying touchdown late in the game.

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0:27 – 4Q: Nick Foles to David Douglas, 5-yard TD pass (Zendejas kick no good)

UA 20, ASU 20

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James Brooks blocks Alex Zendejas’ game-winning PAT attempt. Brooks originally made a name for himself as a longtime writer for the cartoon, “The Simpsons.”

That’s James L. Brooks, you say?

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Did anyone else also have that guttural feeling that Zendejas wouldn’t convert that kick?

Zendejas has had seven PAT’s missed or blocked this season — including the potential game-winner with 27 seconds left.

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Game tied 20-20; Arizona with the ball on its own 20 yard line and one second is on the clock. It’s time for Wildcat quarterback Nick Foles to channel his inner Doug Flutie – because a game-tying drive with seconds left on the clock aren’t enough in the Palooka’s mind.

What’s that you say? They’re kneeling it and opting for overtime? Bah.

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1OT: Alex Zendejas, 19-yard FG

UA 23, ASU 20

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1OT: Thomas Weber, 40-yard FG

UA 23, ASU 23 

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Another guy with two first names scores, this time it’s Cameron Marshall for ASU.

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2OT: Cameron Marshall, 2-yard TD run (Weber kick)

ASU 30, UA 23

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2OT: David Douglas, 9-yard TD run (Zendejas kick no good)

ASU 30, UA 23 – FINAL

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Make that eight missed or blocked PATs. Alex Zendejas wins the Kyle Brotzman Award for kicking futility after having two crucial PAT’s blocked.

Brotzman, as you may or may not already know, needs a police escort on the Boise State campus after missing two kicks last week to keep the Broncos’ national title hopes alive.

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James Brooks’ hand must hurt really badly, courtesy of the two critical PAT kicks that Zendejas blasted directly into the ASU junior defensive ends’ palms.

Arizona players should make sure to congratulate him with a hearty, postgame handshake.

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After a lousy first half, explosive second half and thrilling overtime the Territorial Cup once again taught us and Alex Zendejas something: Nobody’s Burfict.

Bear Down…and Blog!

Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

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PHOTO

Arizona wide receiver Juron Criner flips on his head in the fourth quarter of the Wildcats' 24-21 loss to Southern California in Tucson. Chris Morrison-US PRESSWIRE

Juron Criner and the once 20^th-ranked University of Arizona football team have seen their Rose Bowl bid upended by three consecutive losses to Stanford, Southern California and Oregon.

Or…

Wildcat wide receiver Juron Criner busts a few moves during his audition for the University of Arizona break-dancing squad.

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NEWS

NCAA Selection Sunday into the ’Big Dance’ is always a fun day, regardless of the sport — or if you happen to be one of the programs left looking from the outside in at the field of 64 teams.

The NCAA announced its 2010 women’s volleyball tournament brackets on Sunday.

Among the opening round matchups is a Wildcat-on-Wildcat contest pitting the University of Arizona (20-11) against Northwestern (19-11) in the first round of the University Park, Pennsylvania Region.

The Wildcats square off against one another on Dec. 3 in Cedar Falls, Iowa. The victor advances to face the winner between the University of Northern Iowa and Missouri.  

Arizona has never won an NCAA volleyball title. But that doesn’t mean the Wildcats are confident:

“First victim northwestern !!!! Let’s go!!!!!!!!”

- Arizona outside hitter Courtney Karst via Twitter

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TWITTER

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“I surely miss “elite status”.”

- Popular former Wildcat and ex-Harlem Globetrotter Eugene Edgerson pining for the old days?

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“I think it’s crap that they let someone that’s a DANCER be on dancing with the stars!!!”

- Former Wildcat softball star and current Texas Tech assistant coach Kristie Fox venting after watching too much reality television.

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EVER WONDER IF COLLEGE BASKETBALL PLAYERS WATCH EACH OTHER ON TELEVISION?

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“Bob knight the worst announcer”

- Arizona guard Dondre Wise watching Kansas State’s 17-point win over Gonzaga on ESPN.

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“Coach Martin from kstate is CRAZY.”

- Wildcat forward Kevin Parrom watching the same game.

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“Frank Martin !? More like Frank Lucas”

- Parrom and Wise’s teammate Solomon Hill also tuned into the matchup between K-State and the ‘Zags.

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“I put the Kansas State Gonzaga game on mute bc I can’t stand listening to bob knight anymore”

- Arizona forward Max Wiepking also bemoaning ESPN’s coverage.

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FACEBOOK

The Great Face Race

Who will reach 100,000 Facebook friends first?

Arizona: 52,442

ASU: 42,446

Cast Your Vote Here

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YOUTUBE

Flash Dance on the UA Mall!

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WI-CAT-PEDIA

Lookin At Lute

Think Bob Baffert is a proud University of Arizona alumnus? Who else besides an ex-Wildcat would name a thoroughbred Midnight Lute – after former UA basketball coach Lute Olson?

And while the three-time Kentucky Derby-winning trainer had mild success with Midnight Lute, he padded his legendary résumé this season with another thoroughbred Lookin At Lucky.

Baffert retired the 3-year-old Lucky earlier this month, sending him to stud after wins at the Preakness Stakes and Haskell Invitational Handicap.

Read more on the ex-Wildcat BOB BAFFERT and his 1,900+ career wins via his official Wikipedia page.*

*Disclaimer: Wikipedia can be edited by anyone and should not be used a true source of information.

Bear Down…and Blog!

Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

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(WILD)CAT-PHISHING

Reaching out to Wildcat Nation through alternate mediums:

We Tweeted University of Arizona Athletic Director Greg Byrne after allegations arose about former Wildcat Rob Waldrop accepting money from retired agent Josh Luchs.

@AtPressTime: “Greg, what steps does the UA take to prevent current athletes from such temptations?

@GregByrne: “You have to have consistent education and interaction with SA’s and compliance. Also coaches have to stay aware.”

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PHOTO

Bobcat on Bobcat Crime

Richard Jefferson throws down a dunk while another Wildcat hoops star, Jordan Hill watches on during the Spurs and Rockets final tune-up for the NBA season opener this week. Soobum Im-US PRESSWIRE

 The NBA tipped-off its season this week, which means that the summer vacation is over and it’s back to work for 10 former Wildcats.

Among the ex-Arizona basketball players taking to the hardwood this season is Richard Jefferson of the San Antonio Spurs and Jordan Hill of the Houston Rockets.

Gilbert Arenas, Washington Wizards; Jerryd Bayless, New Orleans Hornets; Mike Bibby, Atlanta Hawks; Chase Budinger, Houston Rockets; Channing Frye, Phoenix Suns; Jordan Hill, Houston Rockets; Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers; Richard Jefferson, San Antonio Spurs; Jason Terry, Dallas Mavericks; and Luke Walton, Los Angeles Lakers

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THOUGHTS: Go out to former Wildcat player and Pima Community College assistant coach Brenda Frese, who informed reporters at Tuesday’s University of Maryland media day that her 2-year-old son has begun treatment for Leukemia. Frese has turned around the once moribund women’s basketball program, guiding the Terps to the 2006 NCCA title.

Said Frese via Twitter:

“So many have reached out to our family recently. I could spend all day & night thanking each of you. We’re very touched by the support. THX!” 

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TWITTER

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“just because your not ready, doesn’t mean the person that your gonna wanna settle for, is gonna want to settle for yu.”

- Solomon Hill, the wise guru of the Arizona basketball program.

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“Learning to play two positions is tougher than I thought.”

- Kevin Parrom contemplating the life of a guard/forward.

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“Imma start investing in 5hoyr energy shots”

- Wildcat wide receiver Dan Buckner in need of a boost.

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“I’m headed to puerto rico for track, jesus, and rice and beans… and you’re more than welcome to help me get there!”

- Ex-Wildcat track-and-field star Brianna Glenn with a full plate.

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“Yesterday we went to the park in the morning, desert museum at noon and saguaro national park in the afternoon. Fun day”

- Ex-Arizona swimmer and Olympic sensation Amanda Beard with a nice little afternoon planned.

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“at Tucson Airport w/ @tmas32 & Alicia Hollowell headed back 2reality…California here we come!”

- California isn’t the first place that comes to mind when hearing the world ‘reality,’ but it seems to work for ex-Wildcat softball player Leneah Manuma.

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WIKI-ANSWERS

Who is Leneah Manuma?

Perhaps only Leneah can truly answer that one.

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WEB

VOTE BEARD

Amanda Beard is nominated for the USA Swimming Foundation’s annual Perseverance Award – but she needs your help to get it. Visit the Swim Foundation’s website to cast your vote. 

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FACEBOOK

Care to re-live Arizona’s win over Washington? Watch it again…in photos. We found this by visiting the official Arizona Athletics Facebook page.

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YOUTUBE

Remember former Wildcat Chuck Cecil? Many of his opponents don’t, thanks to a slew of punishing hits the PAC-10 Defensive Player of the Decade (1980s) doled out throughout his career. Today, Cecil is the defensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans and recently got in some hot water for giving the referees a ‘one-finger’ salute.

Video courtesy of OneTrueMedia.com

ARIZONA WILDCATS SPORTS: BEAR DOWN…AND BLOG

Former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

PHOTO

The Arizona Wildcat equipment room days before heading to Pullman. Twitter photo via UA Athletic Director Greg Byrne.

Preparation for game day doesn’t always pertain to players and coaches. The University of Arizona equipment staff is packed and ready to go days in advance off the Wildcats’ road trip to Pullman, Wash., on Saturday to face the Cougars of Washington State.

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NEWS

Former Arizona defensive tackle Rob Waldrop was among 30 players “on the take” from ex-sports agent Josh Luchs, alleges a Sports Illustrated story out this week. The All-American defensive tackle denied the report to TucsonCitizen.com’s Anthony Gimino. Now, Arizona athletic director Greg Byrne has weighed in on the allegations this evening via Twitter:

“Just had a wonderful conversation w/former UA great Rob Waldrop….wanted everyone to know that he absolutely denies Josh Luchs allegations.”

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TWITTER

“Soak. Shave. Stretch. Sleep”

- Wildcat hoopster Solomon Hill laying out the secrets to his success.

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“There is an older lady at the game who thinks she’s Susan Sarandon in Bull Durham.” 

- Ex-Cat and Akron Racer hurler Taryne Mowatt commenting on the fans.

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“Why do they call them “apartments” when they are all stuck together?”

- David Bagga pondering some of life unexplained mysteries.

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“Randy Moss makes it look so simple” 

- Former Wildcats and current Jacksonville Jaguar wide receiver Mike Thomas with peer envy.

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“Watched the movie “Wanted” tonight! Wish I had skills like that! oo wait I do! Lol”

- Rob Gronkowski, former Wildcat and current New England Patriot tight end, with self-envy

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“Just watched Salim Stoudamire highlights in the training room with Jrock, his shot was ridiculous, I need that lol”

- UA basketball player Kyle Fogg with Wildcat envy.

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FACEBOOK

Arizona football enters this week’s game against WSU ranked No. 17 in the nation. Follow the Wildcats on Facebook.

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WEB

Christopher C. Wuensch the bobblehead standing outside the Paramount Theater via GilbertArenas.com.

Are you brave enough to enter the World of Gilbert Arenas? I was. Start by entering the Washington Wizard and ex-Arizona guard’s official website where you can make yourself into your very own bobble head.

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YOUTUBE

Only Agent Zero can find a way to talk smack via YouTube.

Current and former University of Arizona athletes are always making news and not always in traditional mediums. We scoured the Internet and found Wildcats online by visiting these lynx

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PHOTO

Former Wildcat Lance Briggs strikes a superhero posed before the Bears' take the field against the Green Bay Packers. Mike DiNovo-US PRESSWIRE

Former University of Arizona standout Lance Briggs and Chicago Bear teammate Brian Urlacher have rewritten NFL history, having played the most games at linebacker together for the same team. Check out the official Lance Briggs website.

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WEB

Lance Briggs is just as animated off the gridiron as he is on it. Apparently, flattening ball carriers isn’t the linebacker’s sole passion. Briggs, it turns out, is an avid comic book enthusiast.

The former Arizona Wildcat created the website Lance’s Comic World, which is self-described as: “The Official Comic Book/Pop Culture Social Networking Site Created by the NFL’s Lance Briggs of the Chicago Bears.”

The site is quite comprehensive, not to mention colorful, and boasts close to 500 members, who revel in industry news, interviews with comic-world big wigs and contests.

Lance Briggs the comic superhero. Photo via www.lancescomicworld.com

Briggs and the Chicago Bears take on the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Perhaps Panthers’ quarterback Jimmy Clausen should enlist the help of the Super Friends to protect him from the wrath of Briggs pass-rushing evil.

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TWITTER

“Goodbye randy moss, hellllo rob gronkowski, I see you big rob!”

- Former Wildcat basketball player David Bagga rooting on ex-Cat and New England tight end Rob Gronkowski, who certainly benefits from the Patriots’ trade of star wide receiver Randy Moss this week to the  Minnesota Vikings.

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“Have the NFL always been able to trade during the seaaon? I do not remember ppl trading after game 4 and 5.. but hey, welcome Moss Back!”

- Current Wildcat defensive back Robert Golden taking a pro-Moss approach.

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“ok ok moss in Minnesota @kingxsolo i might be back on the bandwagon”

- Dondre Wise, another Wildcat basketball player, weighing in on the world of football

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“Watching espn And I’m seein some NBA highlights It’s almost basketball season, love it, shout out 2 my boy @jordanchill43 go get it bro

- Former Wildcat basketball player and current St. Louis Ram Fendi Onobun sharing some love for his ex-Wildcat teammate Jordan Hill of the Houston Rockets.

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“Up early at the Tucson airport getting ready for the next tour stop! Last night at Hillenbrand was amazing, thank u Wildcat fans!”

- Ex-Arizona softball standout Taryne Mowatt thanking Wildcat Nation after returning to Tucson with former ‘Cats Jennie Finch, Chelsie Mesa and Mackenzie Vandergeest to face their alma mater in the National Pro Fastpitch All-Star game Oct. 4 at Hillenbrand Stadium.

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“Thank Coach Candrea & U of A 4 hosting @profastpitch! So blessed 2 play my last pro game w/ u! Fans u r the Best! Thx 2 all! A sellout! ”

- Jennie Finch also sharing some UA love. The flame-thrower retired from the NPF this summer.

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“Is it me or looks like players jump up so high when go for a rebound on 2k11?”

- Kyryl Natyazhko eschewing Wildcat basketball for the fantasy world of video games.

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“Back is still messed up”

- Natyazhko hours later lamenting a sore back…possible from sitting on the couch all day playing video games.

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“Learned today to say ‘thanks’ in Malay. Hope to be saying terima kasih at Sime Darby soon!”

- Natalie Gulbis still educating herself years after leaving Arizona for the LPGA.

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“Up early.. TRYNA knock out this quiz.”

- Arizona safety Anthony Wilcox educating himself back in the Old Pueblo.

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NEWS

Annika Sorenstam couldn’t stay away from the links for long. The ex-Wildcat, who retired in 2008 after dominating the LPGA for 16 years, has signed up to compete in this year’s Callaway Pebble Beach Invitational. The eight-time player of the year joins PGA Tour winners, LPGA players (including another former Wildcat Natalie Gulbis) and members of the Champions and Nationwide tours in the unique event that hybrids some of the best players from all the men’s and women’s tours. This year’s event takes place Nov. 12-16 on Del Monte Golf Course, Spy Glass Hill Golf Course and Pebble Beach Golf Links.

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FACEBOOK

FACE RACE

Current standings in the race to get 100,000 Facebook fans:

Wildcats

50,912

Sun Devils

41,874

Become a fan at

“I Bet Arizona Can Find 100,000 Fans Before ASU Can”

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WIK-CAT-PEDIA

Did you know that Wilbur once went by the name Rufus Arizona after former UA president Rufus von KleinSmid? Read more on the affable Wildcat mascots Wilbur and Wilma on their official Wikipedia page.

*Disclaimer: Wikipedia can be edited by anyone and should not be used a true source of information.

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YOUTUBE

Bear Down, Stan, Kyle, Eric, Kenny and Wilbur

“Culling the thoughts that occur when you’re standing around waiting for something to happen”

Thank the good lord for the genius who invented the little black bar.

That thin veil — the last line of defense between a naked body and a cold, shiver down the spine.

Fans of Brett Favre are seeing a lot more of the Minnesota Viking quarterback these days. Bruce Kluckholn - USPRESSWIRE

If there’s one thing many athletes lack, it’s shame. From Vlad Guerrero strutting nude in the Texas Ranger locker room to the high school wrestler who dons his brand new singlet on the first day of practice by dropping trou in the middle of the team’s wrestling room without hesitation or regard for the horrified sports reporter standing within eyeshot.

The Internet doesn’t have much use for black bars as athletes are innovating ways to take the nudity outside of the locker room.

Photos of Brett Favre — and allegedly of little Brett — are the latest to surface on the Internet.

The Minnesota Viking quarterback allegedly sent camera-phone pictures of his, for a lack of a funnier term, “junk” to then New York Jets Game Day host Jenn Sterger.

Here’s hoping the Vikes don’t call for any naked bootlegs on Monday night when they take on the Jets.

Some recent athletes that have gone ‘commando:’

*    If Tyler Thomas is in a beaver uniform this weekend, it won’t be of the Oregon State variety when OSU takes on the University of Arizona on the gridiron.

The offensive lineman was booted from the team in August after he was arrested on suspicion of criminal trespassing, criminal mischief and resisting arrest.

What? A guy can’t break into someone’s home with a liver soaked in booze and no clothes? Police allegedly took the belligerent Thomas down with tasers. They say the smell of burnt brisket still haunts that house.

*    Greg Cullen has found his clothes and a new job as defensive line coach for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Cullen, you may recall, was arrested after driving through a Wendy’s drive through in his birthday suit while coaching for the Detroit Lions. It’s a good thing for Cullen that in Jacksonville, he’s not very far from Paradise Valley Resort, a noted nudist hotspot in Northeast Georgia.

*    Greg Oden has played in just 82 games in two seasons since joining the NBA in 2008. It could be due to a rash of injuries or perhaps because the Portland Trailblazer center is still in the locker room sending naked photos of himself.

*    Favre and Oden aren’t in a class by themselves when it comes to getting ogled via Google. Other alleged athletes include: Chris Cooley, Evan Longoria and Brandon Spikes.

I’m not sure what TucsonCitizen.com’s policy is, but I’ve decided to not include the links to the aforementioned photos. Not out of morality, but basically because I’d rather not see them again.

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Researchers have discovered a new dialect tongued by roughly 1,000 people in a secluded cul-de-sac of northeast India.

A National Geographic photo being circulated around the Internet depicts a tribesman talking into a microphone held by a man wearing a Cincinnati Reds hat. Do you think the newfound Koro language has a phrase for “infield-fly rule?” 

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Speaking of the Reds, how dare they commit an error on Wednesday night to mar the box score of Roy Halladay’s no-hitter, the first postseason no-no since Don Larsen’s perfect game in 1956? Some people are so selfish.

TEAM                   R-H-E

REDS                    0-0-1

PHILLIES           4-5-0 

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Oakland Raiders' owner Al Davis isn't doing much running these days. Neither are his Men in Black. Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-US PRESSWIRE

Rookie Dexter McCluster set the Kansas City Chiefs’ franchise record for longest punt return, scampering 94 yard for a score in week one. It’s safe to say that, somewhere in the very distant future, the record for lengthiest punt, kickoff, intercept, rushing touchdown, etc. run will be the same for every team: 110 yards. It’ll just be a matter of who holds it for their respective club. The only exception, however, will likely be the Oakland Raiders, as long as Al Davis continues to stave off death or the urge to sell of the moribund franchise.

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The Discovery Channel says that the bite of a saber-toothed tiger was equivalent to that of a dog bite.

Makes you reconsider the Nashville Predator logo. Or does it?

The Pred’s haven’t bitten much of anything with a 364-342 all-time record and inability to advance beyond the conference quarterfinals in a dozen NHL seasons. 

With menacing looking teeth, it’s a wonder how that thing ever closed its mouth. An uneducated guess says that cat dribbled more than Steve Nash. 

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I think it’s time to get my eyes checked. I drew that disappointing conclusion last night after my wife quelled my zeal for a title I misread off the television’s program guide. Rather than watching “Missing a Foot,” we were instead watching “Kissing a Fool.” Drat. I was really hoping to watch a film about a place kicker who overcomes the greatest of all odds.

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Speaking of the televised arts, saved on my TiVO right now are episodes of 60 Minutes and 48 Hours. Or as I like to call them: 176,400 seconds of pure entertainment.

Simple Internet searches reveal fantasy leagues for cricket, bowling, jai alai, tennis and even volleyball.

So the idea of a PAC-10 football fantasy league isn’t just inconceivable, it turns out, they actually exist.

Here’s a little tip sheet for anyone gearing up for a mid-season PAC-10 football draft.

The stat categories are very simple – aka let’s not nitpick, this is just a creative way to regurgitate boring stats.

QUARTERBACK

1 point for every 20 yards; 3 points per thrown touchdown; -3 points per interception

Arizona quarterback Nick Foles searches downfield for a receiver against the California Golden Bears. Chris Morrison-US PRESSWIRE

 

THE PICK:

ANDREW LUCK, Stanford, 17.8 Fantasy PPG

1253 yards – 13 TDS – 4 INT

Nipping at Luck’s Heals:

Matt Barkley, USC, 16.0 FPPG

Potential Fantasy Team Name: “Luck of the I Wish”

Arizona: Despite being runner-up in passing yards per-game behind ASU’s Steven Threet for the PAC-10 lead, Arizona’s Nick Foles is hurt by his 6-4 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

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SKILL POSITIONS (RB-WR)

1 point for every 20 yards; 7 points per touchdown

RUNNINGBACK

THE PICK:

LaMICHAEL JAMES, Oregon, 21 FPPG

712 yards – 7 TDS

Also a Good Dance Partner:

Shane Vereen, California, 15.75 FPPG

Potential Fantasy Team Name: “LaMike’s Hut Hut Hikes” 

Arizona: Nic Grigsby’s (11.75 FPPG) and his five touchdowns keep him in the running with the conference’s elite, but it’s hard to compete with James, who should be your No. 1 pick.

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WIDE RECEIVER

THE PICK:

JERMAINE KEARSE, Washington, 14 FPPG

430 yards – 5 TDS

Also Haunting Defenses:

Ronald Johnson, USC, 11 PPG

Potential Fantasy Team Name: “Kearse of the Huskies”

Arizona: Juron Criner’s numbers this season (352 YDS, 2 TDS, 7.75 FPPG) make him a top-tier receiver, but about half the producer of Kearse.

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KICKER

3 points per FG, 1 point per PAT

THE PICK:

ROB BEARD, Oregon, 10.8 FPPG

5 FGs – 28 PATS

Also Able to Get You Out of a Hairy Situation:

Nate Whitaker, Stanford, 10.2 FPPG

Potential Fantasy Team Name: “Bearded Ladies Named Eugene”

Arizona: Alex Zendejas (7.2 FPPG) will earn you plenty of points on Saturdays, plus his name is plenty fun to say on draft day.

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DEFENSE

Average conference rank: total defense, rushing defense, pass defense & scoring def

THE PICK:

ARIZONA

Average Conference Rank: No. 1.0

Another Golden Choice:

California, 2.5

Potential Fantasy Team Name: “Wild Oats Sewers”

Arizona: The Wildcats’ defense is so good that Arizona is able to move up the rankings on a bye week.