New Jersey Gov. CHRIS CHRISTIE topped a list of the most influential figures in sports in the state following his "taking on the four major professional sports leagues, the NCAA and the federal government in hopes to legalize sports betting in the state," according to Steve Politi of the Newark STAR-LEDGER. Christie was a key player in the handling of the recent situation at Rutgers and also "figures to be a visible presence" when Super Bowl XLVIII is played at MetLife Stadium (Newark STAR-LEDGER, 8/18).
| MOST-INFLUENTIAL FIGURES IN NEW JERSEY SPORTS |
| RANK | PERSON | POSITION |
| 1 | Chris Christie | Governor |
| 2 | John Mara | Giants President & CEO |
| 3 | Jim Delany | Big Ten Commissioner |
| 4 | Tom Coughlin | Giants coach |
| 5 | Kyle Flood | Rutgers football coach |
| 6 | Lou Lamoriello | Devils President, CEO & GM |
| 7 | Julie Hermann | Rutgers AD |
| 8 | Eric LeGrand | Paralyzed former Rutgers football player |
| 9 | Al Kelly | Super Bowl XLVIII Host Committee CEO |
| 10 | Steve Timko | NJSIAA Exec Dir |
| 11 | Woody Johnson | Jets Owner |
| 12 | Josh Harris | Devils co-Owner |
| 13 | Bob Hurley Sr. | St. Anthony (HS) Basketball Coach |
| 14 | Eli Manning | Giants QB |
| 15 | Martin Brodeur | Devils G |
| 16 | Eddie Jordan | Rutgers men's basketball coach |
| 17 | Robert Barchi | Rutgers President |
| 18 | Rex Ryan | Jets coach |
| 19 | Jerry Reese | Giants GM |
| 20 | Mike Petke | Red Bulls coach |
| 21 | Val Ackerman | Big East Commissioner |
| 22 | Dennis Drazin | Monmouth Park operator |
| 23 | Kevin Willard | Seton Hall men's basketball coach |
| 24 | Jabrill Peppers | Paramus (HS) football DB |
| 25 | Ray Lesniak | State Senator |
