In S.F., Ann Killion writes Raiders Owner Mark Davis has "stood up as a voice of reason" on the subject of domestic violence. Davis said, "It's just something we can't tolerate. I don't know how to fix it in society but I know we can't have it on our team." Killion notes Davis' views are "shaped in part by his relationship" to Pro Football HOFer Fred Biletnikoff, whose daughter Tracey was murdered by her boyfriend. Davis: "We have zero tolerance." He added that he "hasn't tried to take a leadership role on the issue, nor has he spoken with other owners," including the Cowboys' Jerry Jones, "about his position." Davis: "I'll lead by example. I'll continue to speak if someone asks" (S.F. CHRONICLE, 11/17).
CHANGE IN DIRECTION: In Detroit, Jeff Seidel writes, "I truly believe this is a new day for the Lions, and I base that on [Owner & Chair] Martha Ford." For years, "mediocrity was embraced and rewarded" by late Lions Owner William Clay Ford Sr. But Martha Ford "changed that perception and sent a jolt through the organization" when she fired GM Martin Mayhew and President Tom Lewand. It signaled a "major change in how this organization is run," and it was "smart on several levels." By "making the change now, it gave her some time to find a new GM" (DETROIT FREE PRESS, 11/17).
ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM? In St. Louis, Mike Reilly writes local sports fans "suffered mightily this weekend at the hands of their Chicago counterparts, first as the Blackhawks beat the Blues and then as the Bears routed the Rams." At Scottrade Center and Edward Jones Dome, it "appeared about half the crowd was rooting for the visitors." Reilly: "When I say rooting, I don't mean polite applause. I'm talking a 'We are going to take over your stadium and rub your face in it' level of support." The Internet and secondary ticket market "have made it possible for visiting fans to invade any venue in the country." It is "changing the whole experience of attending a game, and not for the better" (ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH, 11/17).
