Pregame Walk-Through

The NFL regular season kicks off tomorrow, and there is no shortage of business angles as the games near. The Superdome escaped the worst of Hurricane Gustav earlier this week, and the Saints are saying their home opener Sunday will proceed as scheduled -- a development that all fans must be pleased with. Meanwhile, talks about a deal between ESPN and NFL Network are said to be at an "impasse", meaning the fledgling net will begin the season with just 41.5 million subs. ESPN is also making waves by putting original “PrimeTime” anchors Chris Berman, John Saunders and Tom Jackson on the 7:00pm Sunday edition of “SportsCenter” during the season in an effort to gain viewers from NBC. In other news: Wayne Huizenga may transfer his full interest in the Dolphins to Stephen Ross after this season; the city of Arlington is having troubles marketing bonds for the new Cowboys stadium; and the Jets debut their new $75M training facility.

Don't Mess With Texas
UT "diligently exploring" becoming the first college with its own sports-centered TV net, which could debut next August.

New World Order
Man City's ownership change, the first foray into the EPL by a Middle Eastern group, signals a new trend of investment in English soccer.

The Olympic Standard
NBC's Games coverage sees biggest demo jump from elusive M18-24, up 40% over Athens.

Home Is Where The Heart Is 
Under Armour inks five-year, $17.5M exclusive apparel deal with all Univ. of Maryland sports.

Always By Your Side? 
Longtime LPGA sponsor State Farm implores reconsideration of English-language policy; Bivens ends silence on issue. 

Hog Heaven 
Harley-Davidson inks sponsorship deal with Brewers, including branded area at Miller Park.

Up To Speed 
Major League Gaming taps former Velocity exec Harlan Stone to lead sales, sponsorship efforts.

Transition Defense
Bobcats, CMO Greg Economou part ways as team again undergoes management restructuring.