1. Getting technical
Illinois’ Bill Self is one of several Big Ten basketball coaches who say Big Ten referees are taking the toughness out of league play by calling games tighter than before. Hey, blame Joe Paterno.
2. You can run, but you can’t hide
Starting in February, up to 40 NBA games will be carried live on satellite radio, so now fans can track the Bulls road woes from anywhere in the continental U.S.
3. Shufflin’ off to Cincy
New Bengals coach Marvin Lewis hired ex-Bear defensive back Leslie Frazier as his defensive coordinator, thus fulfilling his promise to bring a Super Bowl ring to Cincinnati.
4. Focus, coach, focus
Edmonton hockey coach Craig MacTavish ripped out the tongue of Calgary’s mascot Harvey the Hound after the big white dog taunted him during the Oilers’ 4-3 loss. MacTavish does know it’s a costume, right?
5. In support of Super Bowl hype
ABC sideline reporter Lynn Swann on Sunday’s Super Bowl matchup: “You’ve got two teams playing up right now.”
OK then. Back to you guys in the booth.
SIXTH MAN
6. How times change
In 1967, a 30-second commercial during the Super Bowl cost $42,000 and the most expensive ticket was $12. Last year, the same commercial spot cost $1.9 million while a beer at the game cost $42,000.
