What Lies Ahead

NFLPA Preps For Next Steps After Upshaw's Death

With the sports industry still in shock from Gene Upshaw's sudden death, the NFLPA begins to pick up the pieces, temporarily placing Upshaw's right-hand-man Richard Berthelsen in charge. The union has plenty of questions to answer in the coming months, including when to appoint a permanent successor. But perhaps of more long-term and significant importance is how Upshaw's passing will affect the looming labor negotiations, made even more unsettling without the NFLPA's leader, who simply "knew how to cut a deal." Meanwhile, owners and players alike recount Upshaw's unparalleled legacy. Trace Armstrong calls him "one of the most pivotal people in the history of the NFL." But others are not as glowing, as several note he was “gruff and arrogant,” while YAHOO’s Mike Silver feels a sense of opportunity lost as Upshaw could have done more.

What A Peach! 
Ahead of final weekend, NBC's Beijing Games are on pace to surpass Atlanta as most-watched Olympics in U.S. history; meanwhile, columnists continue to praise Bob Costas, pan scheduling.

Chariots Of Fire
Jacques Rogge comes under fire for criticizing celebrations of track & field's possible savior.

Our Lips Are Sealed
Chinese government intensifying efforts to prevent protests; IOC says sponsors, broadcasters not adversely affected by negative issues.

Sacrifice Fly 
Could the U.S. softball team's shocking loss to Japan have saved the sport's Olympic future?

Striking It Rich 
Lucas Oil Stadium opens this weekend amid expectations that it will bring big events to Indy.

Prevent Defense
Jets employ highly selective, discretionary media policy regarding Favre access.

Making A Gopher It
Proposed state-of-the-art motorsports track in Minnesota could begin racing by 2011.

Bluegrass Is Greener
Financing for UK's stadium projects based on marketing, naming rights opportunities.