West Coast Offense

The NFL's spring meetings continue in California and it is clear the league remains focused on revenue. The movement for a 17- or 18-game regular season is gaining traction, as Roger Goodell says owners may have a plan ready to put to a vote by the next owners meeting in May, despite a longer schedule being rife with obstacles and concerns. On the CBA front, it is clear owners are expecting financial relief from a new deal, and Texans Owner Bob McNair points to player salaries specifically, saying, "We can't expect the fans to pay more and more and more. We have to hold all our expenses down and labor is just one of them." One area from which owners can expect financial assistance is DirecTV, as a surprising renewal of the Sunday Ticket deal is announced with a reported 43% increase in rights fees from $700M to $1B annually.

An Instant Classic
WBC's second go-around ends with a bang, as 54,000-plus boisterous fans pack Dodger Stadium for extra-inning thriller.

Fish & Chips 
After countless delays, the Marlins finally get necessary approval to build a new ballpark.

Curious George
Gillett's willingness to part with Canadiens adds more turmoil to team's unraveling season.

Technical Foul
CBS admits mistake in cutting away from end of Louisville-Siena game in local markets.

Sunset Beach? 
AVP threatens to move marquee event from Manhattan Beach unless city makes concessions.

Two Heads Are Better Than One
Joe Gibbs Racing nears partnership with IMG, gaining access to agency's full range of sponsorship sales, activation capabilities.

Fight For Your Right 
Gatorade making a strong push into MMA by signing Georges St. Pierre for "G" campaign.

The Write Stuff? 
Washington Post Nationals beat reporter Chico Harlan says he is embarrassed to cover sports.