Dramatics make College World Series worth watching

June 13, 2013

Quickness has never been my hallmark. Not athletically — I was two steps slow on the basketball court and couldn't handle an inside fastball. Not personally — I didn't marry until age 51 and clung to dial-up Internet and my flip phone nearly as long.

Mississippi State batters U.Va. pitching like no other

June 8, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia pitched superbly in sweeping three games at last weekend's NCAA tournament regional. The opponents, however, were Elon and Army. No offense to the Phoenix or Cadets, but top-25 clubs they were not.

Orlando natural choice to replace Atlanta for ACC's top bowl destination after Orange, playoff

June 6, 2013

Orlando was the ACC football champion's bowl home from 1987-91. More recently, the city has hosted an ACC team for the last 12 postseasons.

Virginia wins NCAA regional as bats awaken

June 3, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia's baseball team ranks fourth nationally in scoring and 11th in batting average. Yet in their first two NCAA tournament games, the Cavaliers scored a paltry four runs combined and hit a pedestrian .277.

Duncan's impact on Spurs unsurpassed by any No. 1 NBA draft pick

June 2, 2013

The roll call includes iconic big men such as Kareem, Shaq and Walton. Plus, uniquely versatile talents like Magic, LeBron and Oscar. And don't forget Hampton Roads' own Allen Iverson and Joe Smith.

UVa prevails over Army in rare NCAA tournament pitching duel

June 1, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Bored on the eve of his team's NCAA tournament opener Friday, Virginia baseball coach Brian O'Connor wandered up to the press box at Davenport Field and held court. The topic on which he was most animated: Cavaliers closer Kyle Crockett.

Virginia, Army have 'unfinished business' in NCAA baseball regional

May 31, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Derek Fisher's handicapping of Virginia's NCAA baseball regional this weekend is hit-the-cutoff-man basic and borders on cliché.

Virginia has sterling collection of head coaches

May 30, 2013

Some were family promotions, one an obscure find, still others logical choices. Yet no matter the approach, Virginia athletic director Craig Littlepage and his senior staff have done an extraordinary job hiring, and retaining, quality head coaches, especially in Olympic sports.

NCAA tournament seed reflects Virginia baseball's winning culture

May 29, 2013

Roster overhaul notwithstanding, Brian O'Connor didn't buy the Virginia-is-rebuilding chatter. Not after nine consecutive NCAA tournament bids. Not after College World Series appearances in 2009 and '11. Not after another stout recruiting class.

Fate leads former Hampton All-American Ronald Curry to 49ers coaching job

May 19, 2013

The rejections stung, sure. They always do. But Ronald Curry had overcome far more, and a few job interviews that didn't pan out weren't about to discourage him.

U.Va., Virginia Tech attempt to balance competitive, business concerns in football scheduling

May 15, 2013

Bold non-conference schedules will serve Virginia Tech, Virginia and the ACC well as college football drives toward the playoff era. The challenge is in balancing that ambition with business and competitive concerns.

Bryant Stith brings intellect, integrity, presence to ODU basketball

May 12, 2013

Bryant Stith had just led Virginia to a victory at Maryland. But he had little interest in discussing his performance, the game or the team's national ranking.

Davidson strengthens Atlantic 10 basketball

May 9, 2013

Last year, Davidson declined an invitation to join the Colonial Athletic Association. This week, the Wildcats accepted membership in the Atlantic 10.

Third Kingsmill victory comes on Father's Day for Cristie Kerr

May 6, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — When Cristie Kerr's eagle putt at the 15th hole Sunday burned the left edge, her dad cringed.

Kingsmill a remarkable LPGA Tour debut for Katie Burnett

May 5, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — Katie Burnett will not win the LPGA's Kingsmill Championship. Not with this impeccably credentialed leaderboard. Not with seven of the world's top-25 players in her midst entering Sunday's final round.

Kingsmill contender Angela Stanford true to Texas roots, devoted to foundation

May 4, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — Angela Stanford didn't know that she's made the cut of every LPGA tournament at Kingsmill. Didn't know that her 9-for-9 track record on Pete Dye's River Course puts her in a club with only one other member — Natalie Gulbis.

Sisters Ariya, Moriya Jutanugarn enjoying Kingsmill Championship together

May 2, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — More than 20 golfers requested a sponsor's invitation to this week's LPGA Kingsmill Championship. Ariya Jutanugarn's stood alone — for one reason.

After last year's Shin-Creamer epic, LPGA tweaks Kingsmill's playoff format

May 2, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — The LPGA has never seen a playoff like last year's at Kingsmill, and for spectators, the format was perfect. As Jiyai Shin and Paula Creamer dueled time after time after time on the River Course's 18th hole, fans lining the fairway or seated in the grandstand never had to budge.

World No. 1 Inbee Park transformed since last Kingsmill appearance

May 1, 2013

WILLIAMSBURG — When last seen in these parts, Inbee Park was missing the cut at Kingsmill's 2009 Michelob Ultra Open. A major championship in hand, she was ranked 27th in the world, but truth be told, Park had little grasp for what it takes to compete on the LPGA Tour.

Brey, Notre Dame poised to continue success in ACC

April 28, 2013

HAMPTON — The buzz of returning to the league of his childhood, not to mention the source of his two national championship rings, remains with Mike Brey. But now comes the hard part:

Spring game exposes Virginia Tech offense

April 21, 2013

BLACKSBURG — The new offensive coordinator has installed only the basics. Moreover, with spring game video readily available, only a fool would reveal much on such an inconsequential stage.

Virginia Tech, Virginia, ODU, Norfolk State affected by offseason basketball changes

April 18, 2013

Since last we took stock of college basketball's waiver wire, players have exited Virginia and Virginia Tech. The Hokies countered with a promising late signee but also lost an assistant coach. Norfolk State said farewell to its accomplished head coach, while an Old Dominion hire created a potential opportunity for a U.Va. assistant.

Suffolk product Sugar Rodgers awaits Monday's WNBA draft

April 14, 2013

Sugar Rodgers set Georgetown career records for points and steals. She was the nation's No. 4 scorer this season and exited the college game with a 42-point epic in the Big East tournament.

Lewis, Park lead world rankings as LPGA prepares for next month's Kingsmill tournament

April 11, 2013

The season's first major complete, the LPGA Tour is off this week — no sense competing with Bubba, Tiger and Augusta — as players prepare for a three-tournament stretch that concludes May 2-5 at the Kingsmill Championship.

Second national title secured, Kentucky Derby next for Louisville's Pitino

April 10, 2013

The notion is preposterous: Luke Hancock astride a horse in the Kentucky Derby. He weighs two bills, for goodness sakes, and stands 6-foot-6. He's as much a jockey as I am an NFL left tackle.

Like Virginia players, associate head coach Tom O'Brien adjusting to new offense

April 7, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia's quarterbacks, running backs, receivers and linemen aren't the only ones adjusting to new coordinator Steve Fairchild's offense this spring. Tom O'Brien is right there with them.

Notre Dame, Duke helped Norfolk Regional draw animated crowd

April 6, 2013

Norfolk, Old Dominion and the Constant Center affirmed their stature as worthy hosts of the NCAA women's basketball tournament this week with animated crowds, a polished arena and apparently seamless logistics.

Jeff Jones energized by opportunity at Old Dominion

April 5, 2013

NORFOLK — Each year at the Final Four, Jeff Jones hosts a large dinner. The guest list tops 30 and includes coaches and administrators with whom he has worked. They reunite, lie about their handicaps and chow on Jones' dime.

Jeff Jones brings impeccable credentials to ODU

April 4, 2013

Jeff Jones has won at college basketball's penthouse level. His Virginia teams beat Kansas in the NCAA tournament, Duke at Cameron and No. 2 North Carolina at home.

Duke can't contain Diggins

April 3, 2013

The clock said 5:37 remained, plenty of time. But Skylar Diggins, her Notre Dame teammates and the Constant Center crowd knew otherwise.

Diggins sets Notre Dame record in Sweet 16 rout of Kansas

April 1, 2013

NORFOLK — Before pulling All-American point guard Skylar Diggins from Sunday's demolition of Kansas, a thought occurred to Notre Dame coach Muffet McGraw: How close is she?

Oh, that 2-3 zone! Syracuse smothers Marquette 55-39

March 31, 2013

WASHINGTON — Syracuse basketball and Jim Boeheim couldn't have scripted a better 10th-anniversary soiree than Saturday's.

Suffolk native Davante Gardner helps Marquette advance to Elite Eight against Syracuse

March 30, 2013

Davante Gardner doesn't start for Marquette's basketball team. He doesn't lead the Golden Eagles in scoring, rebounding or assists. Indeed, the most notable number associated with Gardner may be his weight — he carries 290 pounds on a 6-foot-8 frame.

Larranaga comes 'home' for NCAA tournament regional

March 28, 2013

At the risk of buzz-kill accusations: Jim Larranaga lost the last two games he coached here at the Verizon Center.

Florida Gulf Coast continues historic NCAA run

March 25, 2013

PHILADELPHIA — Naturally, college basketball's most outrageous air show since Phi Slama Jama punctuated its latest conquest with two highlight-reel lob dunks.

Sophomore Cook a constant for senior-laden Duke in NCAA tournament

March 24, 2013

PHILADELPHIA — For the first time in 23 years, Duke has three established senior starters and leaders. Moreover, Mason Plumlee, Seth Curry and Ryan Kelly offer compelling stories, collectively and individually.

Duke overcomes lapses, repels Albany's late NCAA challenge

March 23, 2013

PHILADELPHIA — Albany coach Will Brown said Thursday that Duke was the best team in this NCAA tournament. The Blue Devils didn't approach that rare air Friday against Brown's Great Danes.

Lehigh's NCAA upset of Duke last year does Albany 'no favors'

March 22, 2013

PHILADELPHIA — Albany's players know coach Will Brown isn't jerking their chain. Yes, they can shock Duke on Friday. Yes, they can torch millions of NCAA tournament brackets.

VCU-Akron NCAA pairing matches coaching brothers Smart, Dambrot

March 20, 2013

RICHMOND — As Akron prepared for the Mid-American Conference tournament, VCU coach Shaka Smart sent the Zips a 45-second motivational video.

Virginia has only itself to blame for not making NCAA field

March 18, 2013

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Middle Tennessee State has one top-100 victory. Virginia boasts eight. The Blue Raiders defeated two teams that made the NCAA tournament. The Cavaliers bested four.

Virginia offers no NCAA case in ACC tournament loss to N.C. State

March 16, 2013

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Virginia perpetuated one of ACC basketball's most baffling streaks Friday, and the defeat probably cost the Cavaliers an NCAA tournament bid.

Historic, melancholy games for Hanlan, Green in ACC tournament

March 15, 2013

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Olivier Hanlan's season-high was 26 points. So the notion of the Boston College freshman scoring 26 more than Erick Green on Thursday bordered on preposterous.

Virginia Tech's Johnson maintains firm hand during trying rookie season

March 14, 2013

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Discipline ranks among the most difficult transitions for a rookie head coach. As an assistant, he mostly comforted and encouraged. As the big whistle, he needs to scold and challenge.

Top seeds Miami, Duke enter ACC tournament amid uncertainty

March 12, 2013

Miami won the ACC regular season outright and went a combined 7-1 against teams in the top half of the standings. Duke is 18-0 when at full strength and fresh off a road victory over neighborhood rival North Carolina.

Virginia's exhausting NCAA tournament hopes continue in win over Maryland

March 10, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Excuse Virginia fans their exhaustion today. But this NCAA tournament uncertainty, fraught with agonizingly close games marked by near misses, brain-cramp turnovers and high drama is as grueling as manual labor.

Strange season cut short, Corrigan, ODU look to future

March 10, 2013

Old Dominion wasn't going to win the Colonial Athletic Association basketball tournament. The Monarchs weren't going to salvage the strangest, and one of the worst, seasons in program history with a magical three-day run in Richmond.

Virginia Tech challenges No. 3 Duke before fading late

March 6, 2013

DURHAM, N.C. — For the second time in two weeks Tuesday, Duke punished Virginia Tech. The Blue Devils again shredded the Hokies' defense, especially from beyond the 3-point arc, committed precious few turnovers and survived Erick Green's nightly soliloquy.

VCU approaches perfection in rout of Butler

March 3, 2013

RICHMOND — VCU ambushed Florida Gulf Coast, Winthrop and Stetson in November. Come December, the Rams ravaged Western Kentucky, Longwood and Fairleigh Dickinson. Since New Year's, East Tennessee State, Duquesne and George Washington have drowned in the tidal wave of Shaka Smart's full-court defense.

VCU ready for Final Four reunion Saturday with Butler

February 28, 2013

RICHMOND — Spike Lee strolled into a VCU basketball practice last week. The renowned filmmaker, hoops maven and Reggie Miller foil was speaking on campus and wanted to check out coach Shaka Smart's Rams.

Norfolk State basketball sustaining last year's NCAA success

February 20, 2013

HAMPTON — Rare is the No. 15 seed that advances in the NCAA men's basketball tournament. Bloody rare is the No. 15 that wins and returns to the bracket a year later.

Virginia unusually defenseless in loss at Carolina

February 16, 2013

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Saturday marked the first time in Tony Bennett’s seven seasons as a head coach that his team scored at least 80 points and lost. Safe to say, the experience was unpleasant.

Kelly's offense predicated on speed, and Vick still offers that to Eagles

February 14, 2013

In Week 2 of the NFL season. Michael Vick passed for 371 yards and rushed for a touchdown in the final two minutes to give the Philadelphia Eagles a 24-23 victory over the Baltimore Ravens.

U.Va. enters defining stretch after rout of Virginia Tech

February 13, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — A routine thrashing of its last-place rival complete, Virginia enters a two-week stretch that likely will answer the most-asked and perplexing question of its season:

Selig says don't discount interim Corrigan in ODU coaching search

February 10, 2013

NORFOLK — His flight from Nashville delayed, Old Dominion athletic director Wood Selig arrived later than usual to the Monarchs' home basketball game Saturday against Northeastern. But the one-day sojourn to Music City was well worth the time.

No signing day drama for U.Va., Virginia Tech, ODU

February 7, 2013

College football's national signing day dawned with the consensus No. 1 prospect choosing Ole Miss over two more acclaimed Southeastern Conference programs. ESPN later reported that the mother of a mega-star running back from Florida had confiscated the letter-of-intent he planned to sign with Arkansas.

ODU's firing of Taylor awkward, sad

February 6, 2013

NORFOLK — Old Dominion's firing of basketball coach Blaine Taylor on Tuesday was equal parts sad, awkward and unusual.

Pedigree, depth prevail as North Carolina defeats Virginia Tech

February 3, 2013

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — From tradition to talent to depth, there's no comparing the basketball programs at Virginia Tech and North Carolina. But for two-plus hours Saturday afternoon, the Hokies and Tar Heels looked as similar as John and Jim Harbaugh.

Victory over N.C. State Virginia's most consequential of season

January 30, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Up front, let's be clear. Virginia's basketball team remains a fur piece from serious NCAA tournament consideration. But if the Cavaliers continue their current surge and celebrate on Selection Sunday, they'll think back to Tuesday night.

Virginia adds Oregon to complete most ambitious 2013 football schedule

January 29, 2013

College football's most dynamic, prolific and frenzied offense of the last four seasons is coming to the University of Virginia in 2013, albeit without its architect.

Young CNU continues to show postseason potential

January 27, 2013

Christopher Newport hasn't advanced in the NCAA men's basketball tournament since 2001, an interminable drought for a program steeped in success. Saturday afternoon, the Captains continued to flash postseason potential.

Loeffler, Grimes, Moorehead bring "freshness" to Virginia Tech

January 26, 2013

BLACKSBURG — Virginia Tech football's three new staff members arrive with a Super Bowl ring, national championship bling and Tom Brady's cell number, respectively. They appear to be smart, affable and demanding.

Depth, defense, tempo sustain VCU's success under Smart

January 23, 2013

RICHMOND — This marks the first season since 1985 that VCU has cracked the Associated Press' national college basketball poll. The Rams are ranked 19th this week and own Division I's second-longest winning streak at 13 games, three behind Kansas.

Despite slump, Brown clutch for Virginia Tech again in win over Wake

January 20, 2013

BLACKSBURG — Miserable doesn't begin to describe Robert Brown's shooting funk. After such an encouraging start this season, Virginia's Tech's starting wing guard has missed 62 of his last 79 attempts from the field.

London, Virginia fortunate to have O'Brien back

January 19, 2013

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Mike London told Tom O'Brien to choose the restaurant, always sage when you're on a sales call. True to form, O'Brien picked Napper Tandy's, the Irish pub a short walk from his downtown Raleigh condo.

Injuries to Atkins, Kelly deplete Virginia, Duke frontcourts

January 17, 2013

Ten days ago, Virginia was relishing a home victory over North Carolina in the teams' ACC basketball opener. With two winnable road games on the horizon, a 3-0 conference start certainly was plausible.

New Virginia Tech coordinator could boost Thomas' NFL stock

January 15, 2013

Quarterback Logan Thomas announced his return to Virginia Tech on Tuesday, clearing the decks for the Hokies’ more enduring offseason development: the makeover of coach Frank Beamer’s offensive staff.

Expansion makes 2013 ACC football schedule a Rubik's cube

January 13, 2013

To paraphrase Frank Beamer, Virginia Tech football fans are a dangerous crowd these days. Steamed by a 7-6 season and impatient with the offensive coordinator search, they barked again Friday when the ACC released conference opponents for 2013.

Virginia Beach wisely stalls arena project, pursuit of NBA's Kings

January 9, 2013

Bless their dreaming hearts, Virginia Beach city officials and entertainment bigfoot Comcast-Spectacor insisted Tuesday they "remain committed to the concept" of building a sports arena near the oceanfront and luring a major professional franchise.

Virginia Tech defenseless in 94-71 loss at Maryland

January 6, 2013

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — From player introductions to final horn Saturday, Virginia Tech's ACC basketball opener was bleak.

Jordan Eason preparing for Air Force football finale, job at Langley

December 26, 2012

Be it in Texas, Louisiana or the nation's capital, Jordan Eason is accustomed to Christmas on the road, and a return trip to the Lone Star State this holiday season was most welcome.

ODU exposes Virginia in Governor's Hoops Classic

December 23, 2012

RICHMOND — The inaugural Governor's Holiday Hoops Classic had all the makings of a basketball bust. Three of the four teams had lost their most recent games, and the Saturday before Christmas created scheduling conflicts and traffic ordeals for fans.

How a four-team playoff might look this college football season

December 20, 2012

The playoff will be better. Decades overdue, the four-team tournament coming to major college football in 2014 will not only double the present championship pool but also upgrade other prominent bowls.

After encouraging start, Virginia Tech basketball hits inevitable skid

December 18, 2012

On the surface, James Johnson had little reason to chide his Virginia Tech basketball team, little reason to raise his blood pressure, abuse his vocal cords and summon his inner drill sergeant.

ODU defense collapses in playoff loss to Georgia Southern

December 8, 2012

NORFOLK — Replay this tournament, and Old Dominion might well win the national championship. That's how potent the Monarchs' air raid offense was.

Mitchell, Atkins continue solid play as Virginia beats Tennessee

December 6, 2012

CHARLOTTESVILLE — A game Virginia had owned throughout was slipping away Wednesday night when Tony Bennett called timeout with 5:15 remaining to design a play.

Bowls a chance for ACC to salvage some respect from turbulent football season

December 5, 2012

The most turbulent and alarming regular season in ACC football history concluded Saturday as Florida State won the conference championship with a listless performance at a half-empty stadium.

Heinicke's 'pretty good day' historic in ODU's playoff victory over Coastal Carolina

December 2, 2012

NORFOLK — By his All-America standards, Taylor Heinicke was downright pedestrian for a half Saturday. But by day's end, Old Dominion's sublime quarterback was historically productive.

Hokies ace first serious test by running, gunning past Iowa

November 27, 2012

BLACKSBURG — The undefeated record was cool. So, too, the rapid-fire offense. But Virginia Tech's Hokies realized the obvious: Their early opponents were pedestrian at best. Anything less than a 5-0 start would have been an indictment.

Imperfect Virginia Tech extends bowl streak, mastery of Virginia

November 25, 2012

BLACKSBURG — Virginia Tech is bound for a second-tier bowl saddled with its worst record in 20 years. But on a wickedly cold Saturday afternoon, the Hokies distinguished themselves by trusting in one another, overcoming their own shortcomings and extending two remarkable streaks.

Despite diminished stakes, beating Virginia Tech would be 'special' for Virginia

November 20, 2012

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Last season, Virginia and Virginia Tech played for the ACC's Coastal Division title. One year later, and for the first time since 1988, they enter their annual football clash with losing records.

Given ACC's weirdness, expect Virginia-UNC to be low-scoring

November 15, 2012

Virginia and North Carolina scored a combined 91 points in their respective football games last week. That's impressive. They allowed 108. That's abysmal.

ODU, William and Mary play to type in Monarchs' victory

November 11, 2012

NORFOLK — Typical William and Mary. Competitive, creative, but not quite good enough.

Tabb graduate Mulherin leads Virginia Tech to NCAA cross country regionals

November 8, 2012

Prior to his freshman season on Virginia Tech's outdoor track squad, Will Mulherin met with coach Ben Thomas to discuss goals. Thomas told Mulherin he could run 5,000 meters in 14:15.

ODU-William and Mary football series may not die Saturday after all

November 7, 2012

WILLIAMSBURG — The demise of football games between 757 neighbors William and Mary and Old Dominion isn't as long-term, or permanent, as many of us feared.

Defensive triple crown fuels Virginia's rout of N.C. State

November 3, 2012

RALEIGH, N.C. — Football teams on a six-game bender have been known to check out. Start plotting for the offseason, NFL draft and/or holidays.

Any hope for Virginia Tech's offense should emerge at defenseless Miami

October 31, 2012

Maybe there’s no elixir for Virginia Tech’s offense. Perhaps a patchwork offensive line, rookie tailbacks and unproven receivers have rendered the Hokies terminally average.

Former Phoebus coach Stan Sexton proud of team, hopes to return to sideline

October 30, 2012

Stan Sexton called just before 3:30 p.m., the most difficult part of his days these last five weeks.

ODU rides Phoebus graduate Tyree Lee to victory over Delaware

October 27, 2012

NORFOLK — No matter how high-tech your offense, no matter how gifted your quarterback, there comes a time in every team's season where survival hinges on running the football. Line up, go hat-on-hat up front and hand the ball to your tailback.

VCU positioned to sustain basketball excellence of last two seasons

October 25, 2012

RICHMOND — The only Virginia basketball program of the last 15 years to advance in consecutive NCAA tournaments is poised to sustain that excellence in 2012-13.

Led by ODU, three top-25 CAA teams are best football stories in state

October 24, 2012

The nation's most productive quarterback and two former backups command center stage as the state's top Football Championship Subdivision programs wind toward their winter finales.

Offense fails Virginia Tech again in loss at Clemson

October 21, 2012

CLEMSON, S.C.— As golf carts transported Virginia Tech assistant coaches from the press box to the locker room Saturday, Mike O'Cain stared straight ahead and gnawed on his finger nails. Colleague John Candelas sat inches nearby on the back of the cart, but O'Cain never spoke.

ACC basketball flashback with N.C. State, Duke, North Carolina atop preseason poll

October 18, 2012

ACC basketball went old school Wednesday. Short shorts, canvas sneakers, two-hand set shot old school.

Virginia Tech's defense faces sternest test against Clemson's spread

October 17, 2012

Sean Renfree had time and space. The time to read a Russian epic, the space to build a country estate. No one crowded or hurried him.

Virginia unearths more ways to lose in setback to Maryland

October 14, 2012

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Mike London managed many a crisis as a cop. He's done the same as a husband and dad. Let's see what he's got as a head football coach.

David Cutcliffe's sterling credentials paying dividends for Duke football

October 10, 2012

David Cutcliffe was the first coach in 30-plus years to guide Ole Miss to five straight winning seasons. He won a Cotton Bowl, tutored the most accomplished quarterbacking brothers in history and as an offensive coordinator earned a national championship ring.

Miami, Virginia Tech top contenders in ACC's defenseless Coastal Division

October 10, 2012

The first-place team has lost two games by a combined 93-16. The second-place upstart dropped its first road test by 37. The defending champion is in its worst defensive funk in nine years, and the highest-scoring bunch is ineligible for postseason.

North Carolina the latest to expose Hokies' defensive flaws

October 7, 2012

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Carolina blue tie knotted loosely, briefcase in tow, Virginia Tech defensive coordinator Bud Foster faced the media jackals Saturday. The snarl, confidence and profanity that marked Monday's post-practice rant were nowhere to be found.

Eagles-Steelers game a Newport News reunion for Vick, Tomlin

October 4, 2012

The coach from Denbigh has been to three Super Bowls and collected two rings. The quarterback from the East End aspires to get there and may be looking at his last legitimate shot.

Virginia Tech, Virginia still can salvage seasons

October 3, 2012

Virginia Tech and Virginia opened their respective football seasons 2-0. Both routed cannon fodder and edged a perennial bowl program.

After loss to Cincinnati, Virginia Tech doesn't appear capable of rebound

September 30, 2012

Stubborn as ever, Frank Beamer stressed the upside. An offense that finally showed a pulse. A freshman tailback who ran powerfully. A defense that held valiantly — until …

Offensive coordinator Brian Scott's affinity for run-and-shoot produces air raid at ODU

September 27, 2012

Brian Scott coordinates the Football Championship Subdivision's most prolific offense, and Saturday his Old Dominion air raid left fans, statisticians and New Hampshire's defense breathless.

Heinicke, ODU produce remarkable numbers in comeback victory over New Hampshire

September 23, 2012

NORFOLK — Old Dominion's football revival was humbled like never before Saturday. Exposed, gouged and dominated.

Florida State-Clemson just the ticket for ACC football

September 19, 2012

Tallahassee television station WCTV reported Wednesday that a Florida State student was arrested for printing and selling counterfeit tickets to Saturday's football game between the No. 4 Seminoles and No. 10 Clemson.

Notre Dame likely to improve ACC's bowl lineup

September 19, 2012

Initial reactions to Notre Dame's partial ACC membership were provincial, predictable and understandable.

Pitt bringing basketball power, football tradition, exceptional facilities to ACC

September 14, 2012

Virginia Tech's football game Saturday against Pittsburgh reminds and foreshadows. We recall Big East clashes that showcased Larry Fitzgerald, Antonio Bryant and Michael Vick, and anticipate annual collisions in the ACC.

Creamer vows to learn from Kingsmill playoff disappointment

September 11, 2012

Paula Creamer has been here before: club-kicking frustrated and misty-eyed at missing a short par putt to lose a sudden-death playoff.

Creamer-Shin epic provides Kingsmill another memorable show

September 10, 2012

The old friends didn't miss a beat. They'd been apart for years, but it was as if they'd been texting, Skyping and/or calling daily.

Virginia's defense rescues offense in victory over Penn State

September 9, 2012

Virginia's victory formula Saturday was just as convention suggested: The Cavaliers' resilient defense bailed out their clumsy offense.

Top-ranked American Stacy Lewis contending again midway through Kingsmill Championship

September 8, 2012

Stacy Lewis is the top-ranked American in women's golf. She leads the LPGA Tour Player of the Year standings and has won twice this season.

Recovering from depression, Christina Kim enjoys best round in two years

September 7, 2012

Christina Kim is the first to reveal her selfish motives. And she completely understands if the baring of her tortured soul prompts you to say TMI.

Recovering from depression, Christina Kim enjoys best round in two years

September 6, 2012

Christina Kim is the first to reveal her selfish motives. And she completely understands if the baring of her tortured soul prompts you to say TMI.

Could Augusta ever host an LPGA tournament?

September 6, 2012

WILLIAMSBURG — Mike Whan played Augusta National twice during the late 1990s. Shot 80 the second time, from the tips. Not bad for an 8-handicapper.

Virginia far from textbook in comfortable victory over Richmond

September 2, 2012

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Virginia won comfortably, committed no turnovers and sustained no apparent injuries. So textbook opener, right?

Richmond football to rely on '757' tandem against Virginia

August 30, 2012

Dating to 1946, the University of Richmond has lost eight consecutive football games to Virginia. Only one of those defeats was by fewer than 16 points.

Virginia Beach arena project has powerful backers but considerable hurdles

August 29, 2012

VIRGINIA BEACH — For all the recent buzz about Virginia Beach absconding with the NBA's Sacramento Kings, Tuesday's build-it-and-maybe-some-team-will-come presentation to the city council was very understated.

With game week here, questions about Virginia Tech, W&M, Vick, Sims and ACC

August 26, 2012

The calendar tells us fall begins Sept. 22. Folks in these parts, and millions elsewhere, know better.

DAVID TEEL: With postseasons more bloated than ever, making playoffs or bowls paramount

August 26, 2012

Mike Smith likes little better than football practice in the dark. Those early-evening sunsets mean we've turned back the clocks, the calendar has hit mid-November and, more than likely, Smith's Hampton High Crabbers are preparing for a playoff game.

Recovering from elbow surgery, Inkster returns to Kingsmill, a course she plays well

August 23, 2012

No LPGA golfer has a richer or longer Hampton Roads history than Juli Inkster. She won the 1988 Crestar Classic at Sleepy Hole and repeated in '89 at Greenbrier Country Club. She made every cut of the tour's first seven tournaments at Kingsmill.

No vacation is no problem for new Virginia Tech coach James Johnson

August 22, 2012

James Johnson did not take a vacation this summer. No beach or mountain getaway. No Nike boondoggle. No international excursion.

Is this the year 10 wins are just the beginning for Virginia Tech?

August 12, 2012

BLACKSBURG — Virginia Tech football faithful can recite the mantra on command: The Hokies have won at least 10 games for eight consecutive seasons, the nation's longest active streak.

Stony Brook, Albany quality additions to CAA football

August 9, 2012

Rookie Old Dominion strutted into Colonial Athletic Association football last season and promptly earned a national playoff bid in the Championship Subdivision's most rugged conference. Wednesday the CAA formally introduced two new members capable of equally stunning entrances.

William and Mary receivers feel pressure to produce

August 8, 2012

Ryan Moody interned this summer with the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York. The location was better than the job.

Brittany Lang, LPGA returning to Kingsmill with high hopes

August 7, 2012

Monday's media gabfest for the LPGA Kingsmill Championship was impeccably timed. The symmetry was accidental, but ideal nonetheless.

Rocco says he won't lose Virginia quarterback job to Alabama transfer Sims

August 5, 2012

Virginia offensive coordinator Bill Lazor claims to have no idea, or opinion, on who will be the Cavaliers' starting quarterback this season. Suffice to say, Michael Rocco does.

Coach K holds U.S. basketball team accountable

August 2, 2012

When Mike Krzyzewski visited Hampton in April, recruiting for Duke at the Boo Williams Nike event, we spoke briefly about the United States national team he was set to coach for a second consecutive Olympics. Center Dwight Howard was sidelined with a back injury, and the Americans' front line appeared thin.

N.C. State's Mike Glennon learns from brother's experience at Virginia Tech

July 29, 2012

The numbers say Mike Glennon's transition from reserve to starter last season at North Carolina State was virtually seamless. He ranked second among ACC quarterbacks in touchdown passes and led the Wolfpack to its first victory over Clemson in nine years, an historic comeback against Maryland and second consecutive bowl victory.

Beamer removing Paterno Award as proper as sanctions against Penn State

July 24, 2012

Frank Beamer received the first Joseph V. Paterno Award in 2010, emblematic of college football coaches who not only win games but also mold young men. Last week, Beamer moved the plaque from his Virginia Tech office and into storage.

Beamer removing Paterno Award as proper as NCAA's sanctions against Penn State

July 24, 2012

UVa's London, Virginia Tech's Beamer split on college football playoff size

July 14, 2012

Reflecting their generations and experiences, Frank Beamer and Mike London have contrasting views of major college football's future playoff.

Pettersen remains a headliner as LPGA prepares for return to Kingsmill

July 12, 2012

Na Yeon Choi won the U.S. Women's Open, carding an impeccable Saturday 65 in the process. Suzann Pettersen took off her clothes for ESPN The Magazine.

Villanova-bound Coyer twins close high school careers in state all-star basketball game

July 8, 2012

In the biggest basketball game of her career, before a capacity crowd of 7,500, Caroline Coyer was upstaged by a teammate. This was unfamiliar territory for Coyer, a dynamic, decorated and in-demand point guard at Oakton High School.

W&M football's most generous benefactor, Walter Zable, leaves enduring legacy

July 1, 2012

Walt Zable was a California treasure, an innovator whose business, philanthropy and volunteer work benefited legions for more than 60 years. But this self-made "man's man" never forgot the small Virginia college where he was a football All-American, served on the Board of Visitors and met his bride.

Though modest in scope, college football takes historic step with four-team playoff

June 27, 2012

Safe to say this is an epic week in the nation's capital. John Roberts and the Supremes ruled on immigration and will opine on health care. The Wizards, again, own a lottery pick in the NBA draft, while the Nationals reside in first place.

ESPN's Strange likes Hunter Mahan's chances of breakthrough victory at U.S. Open

June 14, 2012

First-time major champions are the rule in golf these days. The last three U.S. Opens, British Opens and PGAs, and last two Masters have welcomed new members to the club.

Butler, VCU should make Atlantic 10 stronger than ever next basketball season

May 31, 2012

In 1993, four Atlantic 10 Conference teams advanced in the NCAA tournament. Eleven years later, the league's Xavier and Saint Joseph's were a victory away from the Final Four.

Troy Williams' transfer to Oak Hill removes him from comfort zone

May 27, 2012

Troy Williams' transfer from Phoebus High, the hometown school where his Aunt Terri and Uncle Boo excelled, to Oak Hill Academy was more than a basketball decision.

VT operates in black again; UVa's revenue ranks 25th among Division I public schools

May 24, 2012

Attention fellow numbers geeks and/or fans of college sports in our fair commonwealth. Courtesy of a revealing USA Today database, we can glimpse inside the finances of public university athletic departments not only in Virginia but also nationwide.

ODU athletic director knows first-hand the challenges of upgrading to Bowl Subdivision football

May 20, 2012

Wood Selig has been here before and vows not to repeat his mistakes. Here is shepherding a football program from AAA to the big leagues. Mistakes include crippling schedules and high-volume redshirting.

ODU's leap to Conference USA risky but understandable

May 18, 2012

NORFOLK — Blaine Taylor, Old Dominion's incurably glib basketball coach, framed the school's move to Conference USA best.

Emboldened by 2011 Final Four, VCU believes A-10 better basketball home than CAA

May 16, 2012

RICHMOND — Weddings aren't complete without heartwarming and/or amusing tales of the couple's courtship. Who asked who? First-date faux pas. Proposal anxiety. Did he go to Jared?

Virginia Tech's helmet ratings come as concussions worry football

May 13, 2012

Stefan Duma could not have imagined the timing. In the two weeks since he and his Virginia Tech colleagues released their latest football helmet safety ratings, the sport's concussion epidemic has returned to the fore.

Big East troubles rekindle Notre Dame-to-ACC chatter

May 9, 2012

Just when you thought it was safe to break out the sunscreen, shag bag and patio furniture. Just as you finalized plans to vacation at the beach, ballpark or fishing hole.

Conference USA or CAA? Either option could prove perilous for ODU

May 6, 2012

Old Dominion, through no fault of its own, is in a jam, and don't let anyone con you otherwise. The Monarchs can remain in a conference many believe is on life-support, or join a league of scattered wannabes that requires a premature upgrade to the Football Bowl Subdivision.

James Johnson appears comfortable, confident as Virginia Tech's head coach

May 2, 2012

James Johnson didn't act like the ACC's youngest, least-experienced and probably lowest-paid head basketball coach Tuesday.

Virginia Tech hires a unifier in basketball coach James Johnson

May 1, 2012

Two weeks ago, Virginia Tech athletic director Jim Weaver matched Clemson's salary offer to James Johnson, the Hokies' associate head basketball coach. Johnson declined and headed south for an assistant's job with an ACC rival.

With Nike EYBL in town, time to publicize NCAA's new academic standards

April 25, 2012

Hundreds of men's college basketball prospects will converge on Hampton this weekend. Scores of women's prospects did the same last weekend. Most, if not all, envision themselves on college scholarship.

Virginia Tech needs to move quickly in replacing Greenberg

April 24, 2012

Virginia Tech's most recent basketball coaching search lasted more than three weeks. The program can't afford a similar delay this time.

Despite his many accomplishments, time was right for Virginia Tech to fire Greenberg

April 23, 2012

Seth Greenberg is a quality basketball mind and leaves Virginia Tech basketball in far better shape than when he arrived nine years ago. But athletic director Jim Weaver was absolutely right to fire him Monday as the Hokies' coach.

CAA worth saving, but change could be radical if VCU, Mason bolt to Atlantic 10

April 21, 2012

No conference excels at men's basketball and Championship Subdivision football like the Colonial Athletic Association. None. Moreover, from commissioner Tom Yeager down, the league teems with bright, engaging and honorable people.

Source on VCU, Mason possibly leaving CAA: "I just get a sense that all hell is about ready to break loose"

April 20, 2012

During Final Four week, Colonial Athletic Association commissioner Tom Yeager and other principals forcefully denied a CBSSports.com report that league basketball powers VCU and George Mason might move to the Atlantic 10.

Former Virginia coach Debbie Ryan reflects on Pat Summitt's retirement

April 18, 2012

Pat Summitt humbled Debbie Ryan in their first encounter. Nine years later, Ryan prevailed to reach the Final Four. The very next season, Summitt denied Ryan in an overtime national championship game.

With hundreds of basketball transfers on market, Virginia Tech, Virginia go shopping

April 17, 2012

Pro sports have their trading deadlines, that frantic few weeks when teams attempt to patch holes, trim payroll and/or unload malcontents before the playoffs commence. Colleges have no such in-season swap meet, but come spring, basketball's transfer flood commences.

Sweeping bit of healing on softball field (from April 22, 2007)

April 16, 2012

Scot Thomas did not attend Virginia Tech. but there is no Hokies coach more rooted in Blacksburg, more versed in the town-gown bond, more aware of how paramount that bond is during these trying times.

Depressing and inspiring (from April 18, 2007)

April 16, 2012

So many commencement celebrations. Beaming graduates, proud parents.

Harley, Dunn among intriguing prospects in Hokies' scrimmage

April 14, 2012

BLACKSBURG — Randall Dunn caught two passes last year, while Kris Harley redshirted. Not what you would call vital cogs in the Virginia Tech football machine that cranked out an eighth consecutive season with at least 10 victories.

Former ACC player of year Chris Barclay seems like the right fit as William and Mary's running backs coach

April 11, 2012

Chris Barclay's new job is to help rebuild a William and Mary running game that graduated its Chris Barclay.

Ever humble, Ravens quarterback Tyrod Taylor hosting youth camp Saturday in Hampton

April 10, 2012

No bling, entourage or oversized bachelor crib. No arrogance, ego or sense of entitlement.

Four-team playoff best option on table for BCS, college football

April 7, 2012

Virginia Tech lost one football game in 2000 — at No. 3 Miami with Michael Vick sidelined by an ankle injury. The Hokies' reward: a meaningless Gator Bowl against a 16th-ranked Clemson team that dropped its ACC finale to Florida State by 47 points.

Williams-Flournoy aims to restore Auburn women's basketball to national prominence

April 4, 2012

Terri Williams-Flournoy built a women's college basketball power from virtual scratch. Her next challenge is to revive a former national championship contender.

London says Virginia's spring practices in Hampton Roads paying dividends

March 28, 2012

Virginia's first football game in Hampton Roads was in 1900 against North Carolina. The Cavaliers defeated the Tar Heels 17-0 in Norfolk.

Busted brackets, sneaky good underdogs remain part of NCAA tournament's charm

March 20, 2012

The champions of the ACC, Big 12, Pacific 12 and Southeastern Conference are done. As are Duke and Connecticut.

Lehigh vows it's not satisfied with just one NCAA tournament upset

March 17, 2012

C.J. McCollum was 5-foot-6 and overweight. Not exactly what Mike Krzyzewski, Roy Williams and Tom Izzo are looking for in a prospect.

Justice served as Lehigh shocks Duke in NCAA tournament

March 16, 2012

Pedigree, venue and seed say this was the greatest upset of the NCAA basketball tournament's modern era. The proverbial eye test tells a radically different tale.

Comfortably in NCAA tournament, Virginia faces uncomfortable opening game against Florida

March 11, 2012

As suspected, Virginia was comfortably in the NCAA tournament field. The Cavaliers' opening game Friday against two-time national champion Florida in Omaha, Neb., will not approach comfortable.

Fierce, contentious Saturday produces Florida State-North Carolina ACC tournament final

March 10, 2012

ATLANTA — A contentious, bizarre and fierce ACC tournament Saturday produced a championship-game rematch of a January encounter that still makes the head spin.

Defense fails Virginia in ACC tourney loss to N.C. State

March 9, 2012

Less than eight minutes into Friday's ACC quarterfinal against North Carolina State, Tony Bennett called timeout and lit into his Virginia team. Nothing animates this otherwise stoic coach like anemic defense, and for one of the few times this season, the Cavaliers were playing soft.

Despite repeated injuries, Virginia Tech's Raines 'never really thought it was over'

March 8, 2012

Cadarian Raines signed to play basketball for Virginia Tech on Nov. 12, 2008. Thursday he'll play in his first ACC tournament game.

North Carolina plays like a champion in road knockout of Duke

March 3, 2012

DURHAM, N.C. — Ticket beggars were stationed more than a mile from Cameron Indoor Stadium. Lounging in beach chairs just off the exit ramp from Rte. 15-501, they held the requisite signs, knowing full well the answer.

Even after giveaway to Florida State, Virginia's NCAA tournament credentials solid

March 1, 2012

Mike Scott and Sammy Zeglinski were having a scrapbook senior night Thursday. Save the tape, print the online testimonials, mount the old-school newspaper clips.

Hampton, Kecoughtan two wins away from historic meeting in state title game

February 28, 2012

Familiarity breeds respect. That's not exactly the timeless adage, but it was precisely the case Monday night when Hampton and Kecoughtan collided for the fourth time this high school basketball season.

Virginia laments lost opportunity in 54-51 loss to North Carolina

February 25, 2012

CHARLOTTESVILLE — With North Carolina clinging to a 1-point lead in the final minute at Virginia on Saturday, the ACC's two best players commanded center stage.

Hudson's buzzer-beater gives Virginia Tech improbable victory

February 18, 2012

BLACKSBURG — Of the eight Virginia Tech players who logged minutes Saturday against Georgia Tech, Dorenzo Hudson scored the fewest points. Bet he's forgiven.

After early dose of Linsanity, W&M's Shaver recommended Jeremy Lin to Lakers' Kupchak

February 15, 2012

Jeremy Lin took the inbounds pass from under the opponent's basket, raced upcourt and elevated for a contested 3-pointer. He absorbed significant contact, surely a foul, and launched a one-handed shot from about 25 feet.

Bacote, Bethel lament season's harsh, sudden end

February 14, 2012

Aaron Bacote knew the last-minute turnover was on him. But that's not what prompted his anguished reaction: jersey pulled to his face, body bent at the waist.

'Alarming' rebounding deficit dooms Virginia to loss at North Carolina

February 11, 2012

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Tony Bennett's postmortem Saturday began and ended with questions about foul trouble. Virginia's coach wisely declined the bait.

Jontel Evans must slow former teammate Kendall Marshall if Virginia is to upset North Carolina

February 10, 2012

Slow is to Roy Williams what tofu is to Paula Deen. North Carolina's Hall of Fame coach will tolerate any number of mistakes, as long as they're committed in overdrive.

Virginia Tech prepares for Larranaga's suddenly resurgent Miami squad

February 8, 2012

The Miami Hurricanes won two games last week in which they squandered 16-point leads. They rely on a center with a negligible vertical leap, and their coach almost missed the program's marquee moment with a flu bug that sent him to the ER.

Despite impending potholes, Virginia poised for NCAA tournament return

February 7, 2012

Halfway through the ACC basketball schedule, Virginia's first NCAA tournament bid in five years seems, at first blush, assured. The 18-4 Cavaliers are ranked in both national polls, boast quality wins and have no inexplicable defeats.

Kecoughtan product Jerod Mayo captains Patriots' defense in Super Bowl

February 4, 2012

Jerod Mayo has earned Pro Bowl and Rookie of the Year honors. He's led the NFL in tackles and secured the approval of football's most finicky and poorly dressed coach.

Greenberg says Virginia Tech "melted" in loss to Duke

February 2, 2012

January matched Virginia Tech basketball's worst month in Seth Greenberg's eight seasons as coach. Six defeats in seven games, including setbacks at ACC lightweights Wake Forest and Boston College.

Drama at Virginia Tech, calm at Virginia on football's signing day

February 1, 2012

After months of commitments, analysis and changes of heart, after a morning and afternoon of decision, commotion and confusion, National Signing Day comes to this:

Virginia Tech high jumper Ronnie Black aims for new heights in track, classroom

January 30, 2012

Like all high jumpers, Virginia Tech's Ronnie Black wants to raise the bar. He's cleared impressive heights, set school records and earned All-America honors.

Second win in three days shows No. 19 Virginia's postseason potential

January 28, 2012

RALEIGH, N.C. — Play, prepare, play. Such is the rhythm of NCAA tournament basketball. No time to exhale, reflect or sync your iPhone. One day between games, that spent scouting, practicing and recovering.

As Navy joins Big East, ACC looks to finalize divisions at winter meetings

January 25, 2012

Conference realignment continues to affect schools of local intrigue, most recently this week's announcement that Navy will become a football-only member of the Big East starting in 2015.

Florida State a serious ACC contender as UNC copes with Strickland's absence

January 24, 2012

Florida State and coach Leonard Hamilton are poised to join select company, North Carolina is adjusting to a season-ending injury, and North Carolina State's Scott Wood can't miss — at least from the foul line.

Greenberg says youth not an excuse for Virginia Tech's skittish ACC start

January 18, 2012

Enduring a prolonged shooting slump and off to its worst ACC start in six years, Virginia Tech faces the conference's most talented team Thursday night at Cassell Coliseum.

Chaos reigns in ACC basketball less than three weeks into league play

January 17, 2012

The CIA employs scores of MENSA members to decipher coded messages from friends and foes alike. Wonder if we could borrow one to interpret ACC basketball.

Some names have changed, but LPGA retains community vibe as it readies for Kingsmill return

January 14, 2012

Of course Cristie Kerr loves Kingsmill. She played seven LPGA tournaments at the Williamsburg resort, winning twice, posting three other top-10 finishes and earning $953,610.

LPGA "ecstatic" about return to Kingsmill, expects elite field, long-term stay

January 11, 2012

Brittany Lincicome played in five of the seven LPGA tournaments staged at Kingsmill. Never contended. Never cracked the top 20. Never finished under par.

ACC football looks ahead after bipolar 2011

January 10, 2012

Welcome to the bipolar world of ACC football. In the last five-plus weeks, the conference has basked in a sold-out title game, its first Bowl Championship Series at-large bid and a NFL wild-card round that showcased many of the league's former headliners.

Jontel Evans a pest as usual as Virginia survives Miami in ACC opener

January 7, 2012

Jontel Evans' defensive aim is blessedly simple: Be a pest.

Many what-ifs for Virginia Tech in wake of Sugar Bowl defeat include THAT call

January 4, 2012

Anyone associated with Virginia Tech football is entitled to what-if Tuesday's Sugar Bowl loss to Michigan with family, friends and therapists. For days, weeks, months, however long it takes to purge the images.

Beamer's uncharacteristic gamble dooms Virginia Tech against Michigan

January 4, 2012

NEW ORLEANS — The most bizarre minute of football you're likely to witness erased a half of domination and sent them to the locker room trailing by four points.

Virginia Tech needs BCS win to make Beamer's 25th season a true success

January 2, 2012

Frank Beamer's 25th year as Virginia Tech's coach has been as laudable as his longevity. The Hokies won their fifth Coastal Division title in seven years, matched the program record for victories and received the ACC's first Bowl Championship Series at-large bid.

Fragile Virginia can't overcome gaffes in humbling loss to Auburn

December 31, 2011

From season's start to finish, Virginia was a fragile football team. Amid significant progress, the Cavaliers nearly stumbled against Indiana and Idaho — combined record 3-21 — and endured a 38-point beating from Virginia Tech in their regular-season finale.

Bowl bids should become norm for Virginia under London

December 30, 2011

Mike London believes the key is to avoid "shock and awe." The shock of Auburn's speed and size. The awe of the Tigers' national-championship pedigree and Saturday's postseason setting.

Former Grafton, W&M quarterback doing the grunt work as Michigan prepares for Sugar Bowl against Virginia Tech

December 24, 2011

Fret not for Christian Taylor. Granted, the hours are exhausting, the pay scant. Sure, his studio apartment is as roomy as a Smart Car, and yes, his girlfriend lives 2,000-plus miles away.

Unlike recent seasons, Virginia, Virginia Tech appear class of state basketball

December 22, 2011

Paupers ruled state college basketball last season. While princes Virginia and Virginia Tech watched from afar, a record five teams from the commonwealth — Hampton, Old Dominion, Richmond, George Mason and, most famously, VCU — made the NCAA tournament.

Virginia seniors savor opportunity to exit with a win in Chick-fil-A Bowl

December 20, 2011

Mike London remembers all too well his final college football game, the last time he stripped off his University of Richmond uniform.

Tabb graduate Wilcox ready for Finland football adventure

December 14, 2011

Jaren Wilcox knew nothing of Finland. Not the language, culture or cuisine. He doesn't share Finland's passion for ski jumping, ice hockey and Formula One racing, and he certainly didn't know the country is home to a professional football league.

Virginia Tech AD surprised by lagging Sugar Bowl sales, explains non-conference schedule

December 13, 2011

For the Bowl Subdivision's national leader in victories since 1995 and a program preparing for its 19th consecutive postseason appearance, Virginia Tech sure is enduring a raft of flack these days.

Extraordinary efforts, individual and collective, carry Phoebus to another state title

December 10, 2011

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Marching toward a tying, fourth-quarter touchdown against Phoebus on Saturday, South County ran a standard toss sweep.

History with Sugar Bowl leads to Virginia Tech's BCS at-large bid and game against Michigan

December 4, 2011

When Virginia Tech defeated Texas in the 1995 Sugar Bowl, Frank Beamer cautioned Hokies faithful not to expect similar success every year.

Absent a playoff, Virginia Tech, others would benefit from reforming bowl system

November 30, 2011

Maddening as college football's postseason is, fairness dictates one concession: It's better than it used to be.

The beat goes on, as Virginia Tech dominates Virginia again

November 26, 2011

Virginia was 6 yards from the tying touchdown, 6 yards from igniting Scott Stadium, 6 yards from telling Virginia Tech this time would be different.

Two memorable seasons for UVa, Virginia Tech, but only one ACC division championship

November 25, 2011

No ACC team is playing better than Virginia and Virginia Tech. The Hokies have won six straight games, the Cavaliers four.

For Virginia Tech, enhancing national credentials starts in its own backyard

November 22, 2011

Dyrell Roberts is sidelined for the season with a broken left arm, but the Virginia Tech senior receiver hasn't given up on returning to uniform.

Game vs. Va. Tech chance for UVa to make history

November 21, 2011

Virginia is on the brink of ACC football history. All the Cavaliers need do is beat their decade-long, why-did-we-let-these-guys-in-our-conference nemesis.

Playing Syracuse in Garden big step up for Virginia Tech

November 19, 2011

Seth Greenberg will visit family and prowl old stomping grounds. His wife will cross Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade off her bucket list. His Virginia Tech basketball players will roam the City that Never Sleeps, some for the first time.

Thomas rescues Virginia Tech after harrowing start

November 17, 2011

Virginia Tech's senior night buzz lasted precisely 78 seconds Thursday.

Krzyzewski appreciates tough times as he breaks Knight's record

November 16, 2011

Mike Krzyzewski lives and works in the penthouse district. Has for 25 years. Final Fours, private jets, powerful connections.

Best story, highest stakes is a U.Va-Virginia Tech Coastal showdown

November 15, 2011

Hokie Nation will vehemently object, and understandably so. But if you appreciate the best story and high stakes, then hope that next week's Virginia-Virginia Tech collision becomes the ACC Coastal Division championship game.

In wake of Penn State scandal, CNU's Kelchner watches and wonders

November 9, 2011

As Penn State's football empire crumbles under most vile circumstances, Matt Kelchner watches sadly from afar and wonders if a man he's revered for more than 40 years is a fraud.

Norfolk State again one win away from first FCS playoff bid

November 8, 2011

Norfolk State is one victory shy of securing its first Football Championship Subdivision playoff appearance. Oh, so close. But not nearly as close as four years ago.

Bowl bid secured, time for Virginia to get greedy

November 5, 2011

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Virginia didn't earn a championship Saturday. Or clinch a winning season. Or even beat a quality opponent.

Latest NCAA graduation rates show Congressman Rush's rant off target

November 2, 2011

Chicago politics is rougher than any football game you're likely to encounter, so it's no surprise that congressman Bobby Rush, who represents the city's South Side, can, even at age 64, drop the verbal hammer.

Challenging fourth quarter will define Virginia Tech's season

November 1, 2011

Football seasons are like games and year-end retail numbers: They usually hinge on the fourth quarter.

Once implausible, full ACC membership for Notre Dame seems possible

October 26, 2011

Notre Dame and the ACC talked in 2003, and their discussions ended amicably and predictably — the school passed on all-sports membership in the name of its storied football independence.

Virginia Tech, UVa coaches handle second-guessing well

October 25, 2011

With the possible exception of tailgate gluttony, sports fans' most sacred, unalienable right is second-guessing strategy.

UVa coaches mismanage QBs, offense in loss to N.C. State

October 22, 2011

For the second consecutive football season, Virginia has followed a headliner victory with a head-scratching defeat.

Repairing basketball image simple for ACC: Just win

October 19, 2011

With four national championships in the last 11 seasons, two Hall of Fame coaches, unrivaled heritage and beaucoup future pros, North Carolina and Duke bigfoot ACC basketball.

With no margin for error, W&M football team in playoff mode

October 18, 2011

A week ago, William and Mary's postseason football prospects were grim. The offense was stagnant, the quarterback was in street clothes, and the schedule was barbed-wire nasty.

Improbable upset of Georgia Tech London's signature moment at UVa

October 16, 2011

Georgia Tech was 6-0 for the first time since the British Invasion. Virginia was in its worst ACC funk since disco was king.

Jim Grobe has small Wake Forest playing big-time football

October 12, 2011

This is a sports year for the small. Butler and VCU made the Final Four, the Green Bay Packers rule the NFL, and bigfoots New York, Philadelphia and Boston have vanished from baseball's title chase.

Expanded ACC likely to play nine conference football games, retain Atlantic, Coastal divisions

October 11, 2011

In the wake of its expansion, the ACC expects more television revenue from ESPN. The network, in turn, wants more conference football and men's basketball games.

Lopsided loss to Clemson shows Virginia Tech's 4-0 start was a mirage

October 1, 2011

Virginia Tech's 4-0 start this football season was virtually preordained. But was it a mirage?

Despite early schedule, expect Hokies to top Clemson

September 28, 2011

Virginia Tech hasn't played the softest schedule among college football's top 15. That distinction belongs to Wisconsin.

William and Mary shows it's not top-10 material in loss to JMU

September 24, 2011

Perhaps now we can finally dispel the notion of William and Mary's football team meriting its top-10 status.

Historic Saturday is a chance for ACC to improve image

September 14, 2011

As Valentine's Day gifts go, it wasn't bling, dark chocolate or racy lingerie. But when the ACC unveiled this season's football schedule Feb. 14, no date matched the appeal of Sept. 17.

Source says college football 'super conferences' would be disservice to fans, risky investments

September 13, 2011

College football "super conferences" would be a disservice to fans, problematic to govern and risky financial ventures.

Newport News MMA fighter battles testicular cancer head-on

September 9, 2011

Surely you've seen the bumper stickers, visited the website or, perhaps, worn the T-shirt.

Despite lack of wins, Johnson still driver to beat in NASCAR's Chase

September 7, 2011

Jimmie Johnson leads the Sprint Cup points race. He's completed a personal-best 99.6 percent of laps this season, and his average finish of 9.8 is the second-highest of his incomparable career.

Affable McNeill addresses defensive issues as ECU prepares for Virginia Tech

September 6, 2011

If Ruffin McNeill's conference calls are indicative, his East Carolina football practices are spontaneous, entertaining and Usain Bolt-fast.

Tech's' new QB Logan Thomas comfortable in leading role

August 31, 2011

Tyrod Taylor guided Virginia Tech to more victories than any quarterback in Hokies history. He graduated on time, earned ACC Player of the Year honors last season and was a model citizen.

Celebrating milestones for Beamer, Phoebus, Hampton

August 30, 2011

We celebrate milestone birthdays and anniversaries. We strive for milestone GPAs and salaries.

Playing Watford as a true freshman a risk worth taking for UVa

August 29, 2011

The best quarterbacks in University of Virginia history — Shawn Moore, Aaron Brooks and Matt Schaub — did not play as true freshman.

Beamer's hiring 25 years ago inspired, historic for Hokies, Baughman

August 27, 2011

The bedsheet banner, hanging outside a Jamerson Center window, begged him to stay.

Stepping up to FBS requires more than ambition, luxury suites

August 23, 2011

Scandalous accusations, radical rules reform and conference realignment have big-footed the college sports news cycles of late, burying notable developments on many fronts.

And your voter from Virginia on the AP football poll is .....

August 20, 2011

Consider me Virginia's designated piñata, DP for short, this college football season. Translation: I'm the state's voter on the Associated Press' top 25.

Four UVa football recruits from Norfolk Christian converted from basketball

August 18, 2011

NORFOLK — Kwontie Moore, Mario Nixon and Courtnye Wynn were basketball guys. Football? They didn't know a slot receiver from a slot machine.

CAA commissioner Yeager participates in, approves of, NCAA's radical reform

August 13, 2011

Tom Yeager has spent the last 12,000-plus days administering college sports. Few, if any, were as encouraging, refreshing and downright revolutionary as Tuesday and Wednesday.

Governor's Hoops Classic will be a holiday gift for state basketball fans

August 10, 2011

RICHMOND — Gov. Bob McDonnell will never match predecessors Mark Warner and Doug Wilder for impact on sports, but the college basketball initiative he unveiled Wednesday carries exceptional promise for fans in Virginia.

If wide receivers emerge, W&M could contend nationally this fall

August 9, 2011

WILLIAMSBURG — William and Mary's offense is blessed at tailback, solid up front, deep at tight end and experienced at quarterback. The defense boasts all-conference caliber talent along the line, at linebacker and in the secondary.

Anti-diva Jarrett Boykin set to become Hokies' career receiving leader

August 6, 2011

BLACKSBURG — Receivers are divas. They change their names, prance in the end zone and crave attention. They're high-strung, selfish and temperamental.

Keeping it simple didn't work last season for UVa's defense

August 3, 2011

Mike London declined to channel Rex Ryan on Wednesday. So there was no championship guarantee or hazing of a division rival from the University of Virginia's second-year football coach.

Kecoughtan connection reunites Ngongba, Conrad at Radford

July 30, 2011

They didn't recognize one another at first. And really, how could they?

Beamer, London, O'Brien cringe at college football's scandalous offseason

July 26, 2011

From all accounts, Frank Beamer, Mike London and Tom O'Brien are men of integrity, with 47 years of head-coaching experience and nary an NCAA scandal among them. Their players graduate and win.

Beamer, London play to their strengths selling Hokies, UVa football to high school coaches

July 14, 2011

Frank Beamer versus Mike London is a mismatch. Beamer would dominate London on a golf course. London would trample Beamer in a blocking drill.

Work ethic, ties to Tomlin land Pettaway NFL coaching job

July 9, 2011

Suffice to say, Tyrone Pettaway is on football coaching's fast track — from Fort Valley State to Christopher Newport to Tennessee to Southern California to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Former Bruton pitcher Montgomery fans five in one inning for Yankees' farm team

July 6, 2011

The boxscore can't be right. That's your immediate reaction when surveying Mark Montgomery's debut with the Charleston RiverDogs.

Logan Thomas does not equal Cam Newton, and other football musings

July 5, 2011

Summer just hit fifth gear. The Fourth of July is in the rearview mirror, the Cubs' cause is predictably hopeless and Labor Day is on the horizon.

ACC athletes challenge themselves, serve others in Vietnam

July 2, 2011

Colleen Thom and Chelsea Shine have been through the wringer. Three weeks of abject poverty, withering heat and tasteless food. Three weeks of lurking lizards, scary spiders and swarming mosquitoes.

Pilots honor former Baby Dodgers GM Zodda

June 29, 2011

Vic Zodda still knows talent when he sees it.

ODU introduces Finwood, dreams of new baseball stadium

June 28, 2011

In his office, Old Dominion athletic director Wood Selig has blueprints for a $9-million, 4,000-seat baseball stadium to be built at the Monarchs' current home.

Peninsula rower helps Virginia club qualify for prestigious Henley

June 25, 2011

Scott Stuard was first exposed to rowing during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Veterans Day game on Newport News carrier could give college basketball a signature opener

June 22, 2011

The USS Carl Vinson was built in Newport News and commissioned here in 1982. The carrier has served in the Persian Gulf during war, off the Haitian coast following an earthquake and, most recently, transported Osama bin Laden's corpse to sea for disposal.

Virginia more confident, better prepared for Omaha than in 2009

June 18, 2011

Danny Hultzen called Virginia's 2009 march to the College World Series trip "a joyride." Brian O'Connor dubbed it "a perfect storm."

Strange won't be surprised if Open produces another first-time major champion

June 14, 2011

Five of the last six U.S. Open golf champions were previously 0-for in majors. Curtis Strange believes the trend could well continue this week at Congressional Country Club near Washington, D.C.

'Most thrilling, greatest win' sends Virginia baseball team to World Series

June 13, 2011

Add an unfathomable, in-front-of-the-home-folks, we're-heading-to-Omaha celebration to the litany of Virginia baseball firsts under coach Brian O'Connor.

Virginia loses aura of invincibility, falls to UC Irvine; deciding game Monday

June 12, 2011

Finally, vulnerability. Finally, a challenge.

U.Va. continues dominance with shutout of UC Irvine

June 11, 2011

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Weather interrupted Game 1 of the NCAA Super Regional between Virginia and UC Irvine for more than an hour Saturday.

Dominant Virginia baseball takes nothing for granted vs. UC Irvine

June 10, 2011

Virginia's 2009 baseball season was down to its final five outs when Danny Hultzen hit a grounder to second base. A record Ole Miss crowd of 10,323, and maybe even the Cavaliers themselves, sensed the Rebels were heading to the College World Series.

Clemson's Lamb, U.Va.'s Hultzen improve draft stock with memorable senior seasons

June 4, 2011

Will Lamb should be an open-and-shut case for Major League scouts. He is 6-foot-6, left-handed and throws 90 mph.

Michael Vick becoming the man his supporters hoped

June 1, 2011

This was the Michael Vick folks want to see, the Michael Vick they need to see.

O'Connor says Virginia's pitching 'in great shape'

May 31, 2011

Brian O'Connor said Tuesday that his Virginia pitching staff couldn't be better entering the NCAA tournament. That doesn't bode well for the Cavaliers' opponents.

Colleges shouldn't increase athletic scholarships to include "cost of attendance"

May 28, 2011

Playing major college sports borders on a full-time gig. Games, practice and travel. Conditioning, film study and community appearances.

Captains' landmark season ends with loss to No. 1 Linfield

May 24, 2011

Jessie Atkinson is Christopher Newport softball's leader, voice and All-America third baseman. She owns the Captains' career records for home runs and RBIs, and the school is retiring her No. 16 jersey.

CNU's confidence remains high against Linfield

May 23, 2011

One discouraging afternoon against a daunting opponent wasn't about to erase two weeks' worth of confidence for Christopher Newport's softball team Monday.

Study that rates football helmets could have a lasting impact

May 14, 2011

Stefan Duma is unlikely to join Bruce Smith, Frank Beamer and Michael Vick on Virginia Tech football's Mount Rushmore. But his contributions to the game may prove as enduring as any sack, game plan or touchdown pass.

Is Capel's return to Duke part of Krzyzewski's eventual exit strategy?

May 10, 2011

As coaching trees go, Mike Krzyzewski's is hardly a towering pine. It's not Charlie Brown's Christmas shrub, but suffice to say the branches could use some work.

Bin Laden's death brings back memories of dad, 9/11 for former Hokie Brian Welch

May 7, 2011

Brian Welch was 6 years old when terrorists killed his father, Army Chief Warrant Officer Kenneth Welch.

Hewitt capable of keeping George Mason among CAA's best

May 3, 2011

Few college basketball teams replace one Final Four coach with another. Kentucky transitioned from Joe B. Hall to Eddie Sutton to Rick Pitino, Louisville from Denny Crum to Pitino, UCLA from John Wooden to Gene Bartow.

ACC basketball needs coaches as good as 20 years ago

April 30, 2011

During the early 1990s, ACC basketball was the model of stability. Each of the conference's nine coaches advanced in the NCAA tournament and remained on the job at least six years. Eight reached multiple Sweet 16s, and eventually, three won national championships.

Top-ranked CNU baseball team poised for run at national championship

April 27, 2011

Their best player hits ninth, their ace had elbow surgery and their hair dye came from Harris Teeter.

No excuses for Earnhardt Jr., Hamlin, Burton on Saturday at Richmond

April 26, 2011

Saturday is no-excuses night for several NASCAR drivers at Richmond International Raceway.

Defense the primary issue as Virginia Tech closes spring practice

April 23, 2011

The seismic changes are on offense. New quarterback, tailbacks and play-caller.

Coaching changes, conflict liven up Virginia women's college basketball

April 16, 2011

Old Dominion, Virginia and Virginia Tech used to be staples of the NCAA women's basketball tournament.

Can 'eternal optimist' London pull off another reversal?

April 13, 2011

Mike London has been a part of several football revivals, as a player at Richmond, as an assistant coach at William and Mary, Boston College and Virginia.

One of Boo Williams import players is headed to the ACC, 2 others could land there, too

April 9, 2011

HAMPTON — Three players, three positions, three countries. Three ACC schools?

UConn takes its embattled coach on "sweet ride" to NCAA title

April 5, 2011

HOUSTON — Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun lost his sister-in-law and college roommate this basketball season. Recruiting violations tarnished his Hall of Fame resume.

Butler playing for much more than just itself

April 3, 2011

HOUSTON — Richmond and Cleveland State were the 1980s pioneers, charming and obscure underdogs who crashed the NCAA basketball tournament's Sweet 16.

Loss to Butler stings, but VCU run is still incredible

April 2, 2011

His team's unprecedented NCAA tournament march halted, its national championship hopes dashed, VCU coach Shaka Smart searched for context.

VCU, Butler bring welcome diversity to basketball's big stage

March 31, 2011

My prognosticator side detests this Final Four. VCU and Butler exited early on my bracket, Kentucky and Connecticut in the regional semifinals.

VCU point guard Rodriguez channels coach, leads Rams to Final Four

March 30, 2011

Joey Rodriguez, VCU's senior point guard and resident basketball savant, thought the Rams should change defenses this season.

VCU players say "we could win it all" at Final Four this weekend

March 29, 2011

Banners commemorating each of VCU's nine previous NCAA tournament appearances hang from the Siegel Center. Suffice to say, the 10th will be unique and raised amid much fanfare.

VCU-Butler: An unfathomable Final Four matchup

March 28, 2011

If you're still trying to wrap your head around the Final Four of VCU, Butler, Kentucky and Connecticut, get in line.

VCU the most improbable Final Four team ever

March 27, 2011

Call the roll of Final Four gate-crashers. Butler. George Mason. Penn. Indiana State.

VCU's March eerily similar to George Mason's run to the Final Four in 2006

March 26, 2011

The parallels were clear Selection Sunday. Two weeks later, they're downright spooky.

Spiders have no answers for Jayhawks' talent, depth

March 25, 2011

Richmond coach Chris Mooney called three timeouts during the first 15 minutes Friday. None curbed the bleeding.

Spiders learn from last season's tournament disappointment

March 23, 2011

Last season was a landmark for the University of Richmond's basketball program. The Spiders matched the school record for wins, cracked the national polls for the first time in a generation and earned their highest NCAA tournament seed.

Rams go "from stepchild to darling" in NCAA tournament

March 22, 2011

Strolling down Broad Street on Tuesday, Joey Rodriguez was startled when a man stopped his car in traffic, hopped out with a camera and asked Rodriguez to pose for a photo.

Beilein's system gives Michigan hope against Duke

March 19, 2011

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Michigan's John Beilein is a more accomplished coach with an exponentially better team than the first time he encountered Duke nearly 20 years ago.

Good season not good enough for Old Dominion

March 17, 2011

By any measure, this season ranks among the best in Old Dominion's three-plus decades of Division I basketball.

Offense will determine Monarchs' postseason fate

March 16, 2011

Old Dominion's early-February loss at George Mason hardly merited breaking-news alerts or a flurry of on-site tweets.

Newport News native returned from POW camp to star at Duke

March 15, 2011

John Seward never lost his affection for Duke basketball. A former all-conference forward, he returned to campus for games, ventured to a Final Four and held coach Mike Krzyzewski in high regard.

Bypassing Virginia Tech is indefensible

March 13, 2011

Virginia Tech's previous NCAA tournament snubs were debatable. Sunday's was outrageous.

Hokies had no legs, little hope against Duke

March 12, 2011

They bathed in ice, exuded confidence and never backed down.

Tar Heels lucky to survive Miami in ACC tournament

March 11, 2011

Eight minutes into Friday's ACC tournament quarterfinal against Miami, North Carolina coach Roy Williams jerked his starters in favor of five walk-ons.

Hokies, Cavaliers face difficult roads to Sunday final

March 9, 2011

Virginia's only ACC tournament championship was in 1976, and the Cavaliers haven't reached the final since '94.

Deserving teams are hard to find for the NCAA Tournament

March 4, 2011

Unlike the 24-7-365 bracketologists who populate cyberspace, I refrain from serious NCAA tournament field projections until late February or early March.

Hokies no more 'out' of NCAA than they were 'in' after Duke

March 2, 2011

With less than two minutes remaining in their final regular-season game at Cassell Coliseum, Jeff Allen, Malcolm Delaney and Terrell Bell headed for the bench.

Mason, ODU appear assured of NCAA bids

March 1, 2011

By any standard, this was the best regular season in Colonial Athletic Association basketball history. Now comes the hard part.

How will Virginia Tech perform against top-ranked Duke on a national stage?

February 25, 2011

Saturday marks Malcolm Delaney's 129th game in a Virginia Tech basketball uniform. He's played from coast-to-coast and in Cancun and the Bahamas, against All-Americans and eventual national champions.

Former Virginia star Ralph Sampson deserves induction into hall of fame

February 23, 2011

Ralph Sampson is among two men voted consensus national college basketball player of the year three times. The other is Bill Walton.

Cavaliers inept on offense in loss to Duke

February 16, 2011

Many more games like this and Virginia's basketball team will set a school record for offensive futility.

Old Dominion dominates in Richmond with 70-59 win vs. VCU

February 12, 2011

Prior to Saturday afternoon's game at VCU, Old Dominion athletic director Wood Selig encountered a young Rams fan in the men's room.

Chris Ellis, linebacker from Bethel and Virginia Tech, enjoys ride on Pittsburgh practice squad

February 11, 2011

Chris Ellis started an NFL game for the first time Sept. 12. He had five tackles and his first career sack as the Buffalo Bills lost their season opener to the Miami Dolphins, 15-10.

Tribe coach remains upbeat despite lopsided defeat

February 9, 2011

A year ago Wednesday, William and Mary's basketball team was contending for a conference championship, ranked among the nation's top 60 and had legitimate aspirations of earning the program's first NCAA tournament bid.

A tale of two shots as N.C. Wesleyan edged CNU 70-68

February 5, 2011

Two all-stars, two last-minute jumpers, two contrasting fates. What better way to decide a tense game between championship contenders?

Peninsula native Mike Tomlin has turned Steelers into "his team"

February 5, 2011

Mike Tomlin inherited a team one year removed from a Super Bowl championship. The franchise quarterback was 24, the incomparable safety 25, the fan base Labrador loyal.

Virginia's London heralds recruiting crop that includes nine from Hampton Roads

February 2, 2011

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Like the games themselves, recruiting hinges on closing. The fourth quarter. The last home visit. The two-minute drill. National signing day.

Virginia Tech's basketball team a clear winner in ACC expansion

January 29, 2011

Virginia Tech and Miami entered the ACC together in the spring of 2004. The merger hinged not on basketball, or volleyball, cross country or tennis for that matter.

June 12, 2002: Mike Tomlin survives with Tampa Bay Bucs

January 26, 2011

Paul Wheeler's exit at Lafayette prompts questions that can't be answered

January 25, 2011

Judging the fairness of Paul Wheeler's exit as Lafayette High's football coach is impossible.

Steelers' Tomlin, Jets' Ryan say they like each other, but they're a study in contrasts

January 22, 2011

Sunday's AFC championship game offers football mavens a stark choice.

CAA's depth evident in Monarchs' victory over Dukes

January 19, 2011

The inevitable cannibalization within Colonial Athletic Association basketball began Wednesday night.

After exceptional regular seasons, three Peninsula products endure playoff heartache

January 18, 2011

The three NFL starters from the Peninsula had landmark regular seasons. Each excelled for a division champion, two made the Pro Bowl and the other was part of NFL history.

Duke goes small to defeat Virginia

January 15, 2011

If Duke's basketball team regains its swagger after stumbling at Florida State last week, Virginia will deserve an assist.

No rest for weary Virginia Tech after loss to UNC

January 14, 2011

Virginia Tech's basketball team returned to campus about 3 a.m., Friday. Behind the Hokies was Thursday's wrenching loss at North Carolina. Ahead was Saturday's home date with Wake Forest.

ACC's 2010 bowl season produces mixed results as conference strives for credibility

January 11, 2011

The good and bad — yin and yang, if you prefer — of college football's just-completed postseason. As viewed through predominantly ACC-colored bifocals.

Unique formula carries Virginia Tech past Florida State 71-59

January 8, 2011

This was not how Virginia Tech figured to beat Florida State on Saturday.

New England's Jerod Mayo leads strong Peninsula presence in NFL postseason

January 7, 2011

From Henry Jordan to Lawrence Taylor, Shaun Gayle to Todd Kelly, Antoine Bethea to Mike Tomlin, Peninsula athletes have collected a fair share of Super Bowl rings.

Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh learned his trade working for his dad

December 25, 2010

At first blush, Jim Harbaugh's career arc appears familiar: Star player migrates to coaching, works as a college assistant, dabbles in the NFL, returns to campus as a mid-major head coach and parlays success there into a headliner gig.

Old Dominion's basketball team is the class of the state in early season

December 22, 2010

Upon arriving at Old Dominion in 2001, Blaine Taylor discovered a state with a college basketball landscape as diverse as its beach-to-mountains topography.

Four ACC titles in seven years simply amazing

December 5, 2010

Virginia Tech won its fourth ACC championship with brilliance at quarterback, near-perfection on third downs and resourcefulness on defense.

ACC championship game: Virginia Tech, Florida State have sustained excellence

December 3, 2010

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — No one believes Virginia Tech's extraordinary football consistency rates with Florida State's unrivaled dynasty.

ACC coaches analyze Virginia Tech, Florida State

December 2, 2010

Virginia Tech's skill players are better, its defense sound.

Bowl destination easy; opponent more difficult

November 29, 2010

Virginia Tech's possible bowl opponents include both schools embroiled in the Cam Newton mess, a traditional and occasionally loathed rival, the presumptive No. 1 pick of April's NFL draft and Frank Beamer's son.

Hokies' historic domination of Hoos

November 27, 2010

Firsts are rare when a football rivalry dates to 1895, but Virginia Tech made history Saturday with its beatdown of Virginia.

Payne an improbable U.Va. star

November 24, 2010

In the 2005 state championship game, Oakton High's Keith Payne dominated Landstown's Percy Harvin.

Virginia's London thinks big picture

November 22, 2010

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Mike London brought his "A" game Monday. His Virginia football team needs to be even better Saturday at Virginia Tech.

Tyrod Taylor the ACC"s best

November 20, 2010

The ACC's soon-to-be Player of the Year made 6-year-old Connor McGuire's Saturday.

CNU basketball coach John Krikorian optimistic as debut approaches

November 17, 2010

John Krikorian looked none the worse for the wear. He'd driven 500-plus miles, arrived home at 2 a.m., awakened at 6:30 for Sesame Street — ah, fatherhood — and hit the office by 9.

Michael Vick has game of his life in Philadelphia's rout of Redskins

November 16, 2010

Start the highlight tape in 1994, when the kid was a 14-year-old Ferguson High freshman, a revelation in cleats. Cue the drive at West Virginia, the overtime at Minnesota, the playoff victory at Lambeau.

Whitley's interception ignites Virginia Tech's 26-10 victory

November 13, 2010

Eddie Whitley was hopelessly beaten, more than 10 yards behind the ACC's hottest receiver.

Hampton's run still tops

November 11, 2010

Blame Curt Newsome if you're a Crabber. Thank him if you're a Phantom.

CNU reverses last season's weak finish, nears Division III playoffs

November 10, 2010

No man, beast or inanimate object could escape Matt Kelchner's crankiness.

It's one step forward, two steps back in Mike London's first season as coach

November 6, 2010

As folks prepared to turn their clocks back Saturday, Virginia's football team took several steps back.

Watch out for the Peninsula'a Big Five

November 6, 2010

Our team is stacked. We've got a lock-down defender at point guard, length and range on the wings, size and strength inside.

Hokies got needed help

November 4, 2010

BLACKSBURG — There were no excuses for Virginia Tech on Thursday night.

Hokies' defining November has arrived

November 3, 2010

Upon its Feb. 4 release, analyzing Virginia Tech's 2010 football schedule was instant-oatmeal easy. The Hokies' ACC fortunes would hinge on consecutive November games against division rivals Georgia Tech, North Carolina and Miami.

London overcome by emotion after Virginia's statement victory over Miami

October 30, 2010

Mike London is neither deaf, blind nor numb. He heard and read the scathing reviews of his Virginia football team, and they hurt.

Stout defense fuels comeback

October 23, 2010

William and Mary's defense was brilliant last season, carrying the Tribe to the national playoff semifinals and producing two NFL draft choices.

Now's the time for Virginia Tech

October 20, 2010

A serious knee injury shelved their sixth man. An unusual heart virus sidelined their acclaimed transfer and a broken foot continues to nag a top frontcourt reserve.

After two consecutive Elite Eights, CNU men's soccer aims for national championship

October 12, 2010

Steve Shaw took his Christopher Newport men's soccer team to San Antonio earlier this month. The Captains defeated two quality foes and toured sights such as the Alamo and Natural Bridge Caverns.

Twenty years ago this week Virginia football team was ranked No. 1 in the country

October 9, 2010

College football's most improbable No. 1 of the last half-century attracted "World News Tonight," validated Andy Warhol and prompted odes to Thomas Jefferson.

Christopher Newport faces season's defining stretch

October 6, 2010

Matt Kelchner strolled onto the practice field Tuesday night with a bounce in his step. His Christopher Newport football team was fresh off its first victory and preparing for a two-week stretch that likely will define its season.

Is North Carolina State Virginia Tech's toughest opponent thus far?

September 29, 2010

North Carolina State coach Tom O'Brien calls Virginia Tech "by far the best team we've played this year. It's not even close."

Virginia Tech's defensive line keys shutout of Boston College

September 25, 2010

Virginia Tech's defense authored another Gordon Gekko-caliber comeback Saturday at Boston College.

William and Mary fortunate to win

September 18, 2010

The best team probably won.

Rivalry could have huge implications

September 17, 2010

William and Mary should have won last season's national football championship. And the Tribe's opening loss this year was a fluke.

Virginia 'sent a message' with hard-fought 17-14 loss at Southern Cal

September 12, 2010

Mike London was torqued at the officials and proud of his football team. With good reason on both counts.

L.A. Memorial Coliseum is America's most historic sporting venue

September 11, 2010

LOS ANGELES — Whether Colonial Williamsburg, Boston's Freedom Trail or Washington's monuments, tracing the steps of patriots, presidents and pioneers never ceases to inspire.

Offense, defense both fail Virginia Tech when it counted against Boise State

September 6, 2010

Virginia Tech was five minutes from football history. All the offense had to do was close.

Virginia overpowers Richmond

September 4, 2010

Go ahead and gripe, Virginia faithful. Your Cavaliers gift-wrapped plenty of ammunition Saturday night.

Former Peninsula District stars could answer critical questions for Hokies

September 4, 2010

Virginia Tech-Boise State, the centerpiece of college football's opening week, likely hinges on two questions.

Frank Beamer's contract a keeper for Virginia Tech and the coach

August 25, 2010

As he schmoozed — few, if any, do it better — at the Virginia High School Coaches' Association clinics this summer in Hampton, I asked Virginia Tech recruiting coordinator Jim Cavanaugh how much longer he thought Frank Beamer would coach the Hokies.

Academic Progress Rates reveal plenty about schools, teams and coaches

August 14, 2010

At the risk of sending you straight for the comics: This is a story about numbers.

Despite losing two NFL draft choices on defense, William and Mary expected to contend in CAA

August 10, 2010

WILLIAMSBURG — Jimmye Laycock is tan, rested and ready as he enters his 31st season as William and Mary's football coach. For this Tribe faithful can thank Grail Johnson.

Hokies' highest preseason start likely would elevate them to title game if they go undefeated

August 7, 2010

Virginia Tech, Oklahoma, Ohio State and LSU are the club's sole members. Cincinnati nearly joined them last year.

Absent a credible rushing attack, Virginia has no chance of a winning season

August 4, 2010

CHARLOTTESVILLE — Al Groh's demise as Virginia's football coach coincided with a startling decline in the Cavaliers' running game. His successor realizes any hope of success in 2010 hinges on an upgrade.

ACC football 2010: League should be much improved

July 31, 2010

The Final Frontier means many things to many folk. For Mr. Spock groupies, it's the fifth Star Trek flick. For metal heads, it's Iron Maiden's upcoming album. For distance runners, it's breaking two hours in the marathon.

Virginia Tech picked to rule ACC

July 26, 2010

Virginia Tech's poll numbers are slipping, but the Hokies still rate a clear choice to rule ACC football.

Questions we'd like answered at ACC's preseason football gathering

July 24, 2010

The ACC's annual preseason football gabfest starts today in Greensboro, N.C., with — what else? — free food. After the collective gluttony, commissioner John Swofford, players, coaches and bowl reps will endure questions that range from insightful to insipid.

Top Gun football camp lands in James City County

July 20, 2010

As a former campaign manager for Sen. Bill Bradley and New Jersey Gov. Jim Florio, Doug Berman is no stranger to logistical migraines. This week's Top Gun football camp in James City County figures to further challenge his planning skills.

World Cup soccer is not for everyone

June 29, 2010

Part of me wanted the United States to advance deep into soccer's World Cup. National pride, compelling personalities, history in the making.

Former ACC commissioner laments latest round of conference realignment

June 19, 2010

Gene Corrigan is 82 years young, plays tennis three times a week and is as sharp as the day he took command of the ACC in 1987.

York High graduate Will Lamb is Clemson's most versatile baseball player

June 16, 2010

Will Lamb was toes-in-the-water, fanny-in-the-sand relaxed Monday afternoon in Clemson's bullpen. The Tigers led Alabama by seven runs, were three outs from the College World Series and had the home crowd roaring.

NN boxer Jerry Forrest is a promising heavyweight

June 12, 2010

Conference realignment could trickle down to ACC

June 9, 2010

Mike London believes that academic powers can win on the field

June 5, 2010

New Hokies assistant John Richardson brings 757 ties

June 3, 2010

Local region high school baseball tournaments are worth a look

May 29, 2010

Hall of Fame coach Dom Starsia copes with tragedies as Cavs prepare for Final Four

May 26, 2010

Newport News' Cheryl Lager excels in ultra running

May 22, 2010

With TV deal, ACC better positioned to compete with Big Ten, SEC

May 19, 2010

TV series can score PR points for Cavaliers

May 18, 2010

In the Lawrence Taylor case, Morality Police need to be heard

May 13, 2010

Throw Lawrence Taylor out of the Pro Football Hall of Fame! And while we're at it, strip Reggie Bush of his Heisman Trophy and reconsider Brian Cushing as the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Holy Cross is a good fit for Milan Brown

May 9, 2010

Last winter's record snows in Maryland irritated Milan Brown no end. Practice, travel and game schedules for his Mount St. Mary's basketball team seemed to shift hourly.

Minus the LPGA tournament this week, all's quiet at Kingsmill

May 6, 2010

Today would have been the first round of the eighth Michelob Ultra Open at Kingsmill. Moreover, the LPGA tournament would have marked the 30th consecutive year of professional golf at the resort's River Course along the James.

Decision to participate in NCAA tournament was tough call in wake of tragedy

May 5, 2010

Besides winning games, CNU's Woollum has a great track record for hiring coaches

May 2, 2010

When Christopher Newport athletic director Bev Vaughan decided to retire in the summer of 1987, he summoned two of the Captains' best coaches to his office.

NCAA did the right thing in only expanding the men's tournament to 68 teams

April 29, 2010

After its off-season moves, NASCAR's having a flipping good time

April 28, 2010

Phoebus grad Terri Williams-Flournoy seems to have Georgetown's women's team on the right track

April 18, 2010

Terri Williams-Flournoy liked her 2008-09 Georgetown women's basketball team. But she disliked, sometimes intensely, the Hoyas' style of play.

As the Boo Williams tournament turns 25 years old, we give you an all-time best team

April 12, 2010

Have you seen the future? Musician/hoops maven/proud papa Bruce Hornsby asked the question during Boo Williams' annual spring invitational last weekend, and I knew exactly what he meant.

Boo wants Norcom star Finney-Smith to be more assertive during AAU basketball season

April 11, 2010

Boo Williams wants more from Dorian Finney-Smith. More points, rebounds and attitude for Williams' 17-and-under basketball roadshow.

'Average' Devils got most of talent

April 8, 2010

Better Duke teams than this did not win the national championship. Why, better Duke teams did not advance to the Final Four.

Money talks as common sense walks: NCAA moves toward 96-team field

April 4, 2010

Like a recluse without wireless, Craig Littlepage stubbornly resists. Like a grandfather who texts, Terry Holland reluctantly surrenders, albeit with grave concerns for civilization's future.

Hokies are better fit than St. John's for Greenberg, his New York roots aside

March 28, 2010

Seth Greenberg was a natural target for a St. John's basketball program in serious need of revival.

Offensive meltdown costs Virginia Tech a trip to New York

March 24, 2010

Monarchs can taste return trip

March 21, 2010

Keyon Carter repeated the mantra four times.

Coach Drew spearheads Baylor's rise from unimaginable depths

March 20, 2010

Scandal and college sports have been linked from the start. Academic fraud, point shaving, cash-stuffed envelopes.

Road for ACC, state squads in NCAA tournament has big potholes

March 17, 2010

The orneriest of drill sergeants couldn't concoct an obstacle course this menacing.

Schedule was the Hokies' undoing

March 15, 2010

Dan Guerrero rambled nonsensically when asked a simple question.

ACC tournament much like everywhere else this weekend: Surprises all around

March 14, 2010

Bedlam ruled in the Big East, chaos in Conference USA, mayhem in the Mountain West. And here at the ACC, anarchy beckoned.

Late drought leaves Virginia Tech waiting, hoping for NCAA tournament berth

March 13, 2010

For the third consecutive ACC tournament, Seth Greenberg pondered how an exasperating defeat might affect his team's postseason ambitions.

Is Virginia better off without Landesberg?

March 12, 2010

Addition by subtraction. Is there any other explanation for Virginia's dusting of Boston College on Thursday?

Despite 'bad losses,' Tribe still merits NCAA consideration

February 21, 2010

Crusades are cool again. For tax reform, or health care, or global warming.

Victory over Wake Forest huge for Virginia Tech

February 17, 2010

The most challenging week of Virginia Tech's basketball season began with an improbable comeback against the first ranked opponent the Hokies had faced in a month.

Tough times for Roy Williams at North Carolina

February 10, 2010

No wonder Roy Williams sounds more forlorn than Dr. Laura's next caller. No wonder he looks like some bully just swiped his lunch money.

Hokies have NCAA look

February 7, 2010

Two days cannot define a four-month season. But when Virginia Tech's Hokies reflect on their 2009-10 basketball journey, chances are they'll remember Thursday and Saturday.

London's base in place

February 4, 2010

College football's chattering class isn't fawning over Mike London's recruits or staff. And no wonder.

Ice slips run into painful experience

February 3, 2010

Mark Covert has run at least one mile per day for more than 41 years. He's laced 'em up hours after hemorrhoid surgery, aboard a cruise ship and despite a broken foot.

True classic reveals how Hokies can gut out win

January 29, 2010

The game was bruising, defensive and taut. One loose ball and elbow later, matters became contentious and sad. A stirring comeback and acrobatic jumper later, we simply had a classic.

A lucky bounce and fortunate whistle go Virginia Tech's way

January 24, 2010

A lucky bounce and a veteran official's snap judgment were all that separated Virginia Tech and Boston College on Saturday.

College football coaching shenanigans in the past month have been amazing

January 17, 2010

For now, we've been spared. But certainly we're not immune.

Resounding win sets up Hokies for great 2010

January 1, 2010

Borderline perfect during November, Virginia Tech had 33 days to lose its mojo before Thursday night's Chick-fil-A Bowl against Tennessee.

Hokies should reverse SEC's hold on ACC

December 31, 2009

Virginia Tech has lost four consecutive games to Southeastern Conference opponents. ACC teams have dropped four straight Colonel Sanders Is A Chump Bowls to SEC squads. Since 2005, the SEC is 7-1 against the ACC in postseason.

Don't wait for Hokies to pick coach-in-waiting

December 30, 2009

Virginia Tech has more than doubled Bud Foster's salary in the last five years. Earlier this month the school upped the ante with a five-year annuity.

Inheriting dregs, time for London to prove he's worthy

December 8, 2009

Mike London inherited gold in 2008, a University of Richmond football program that returned 17 starters from a team that reached the national playoff semifinals.

Phoebus adjusts after 'soft' start

December 6, 2009

Zac Williams was the first. Then Daquan Romero, Paul Morant and Chaz Robinson.

U.Va. must wonder if it should have hired W & M's Laycock in 2000

December 3, 2009

The University of Virginia snubbed Jimmye Laycock nine years ago. Don't expect a correction now.

London among quality possibilities

November 30, 2009

The University of Virginia should not lack for accomplished, intriguing, and yes, diverse candidates as it searches for a head football coach.

With a rout, Groh likely heads for exit

November 29, 2009

The last go for Groh

November 28, 2009

Al Groh coaches the University of Virginia's football team for the last time today against the most fitting opponent.

Tech: Rockin' Eve in Georgia Dome?

November 26, 2009

Gary Stokan knows his Thanksgiving holiday will include debilitating eye strain, fanny fatigue and tryptophan intake. But those are sacrifices he's willing to make.

Confident Tribe seems eager for playoff opportunity

November 25, 2009

William and Mary's football team found solace in its season-ending, overtime loss to Richmond last year when the Spiders won the national championship.

Richmond coach Mike London stays true to his principles amid Virginia rumors

November 21, 2009

Mike London loves this time of year. Rivalry games. Postseason drama. Championship stakes.

Seasoned Richmond seeking national championship encore

November 18, 2009

From last season's national championship to next year's stadium unveiling to long-standing academic standards, the University of Richmond football program has much to offer.

Answer pending? Pairing of Iverson and Memphis won't end well

November 12, 2009

Carrie Underwood blames Cuervo for her — "I don't even know his last name" — reckless romance. What's Allen Iverson's excuse?

Sudden stardom at W&M

November 11, 2009

R.J. Archer will never approach William and Mary's career passing records. But the owner of those marks says Archer can secure what he could not: NFL employment.

Poised triumph shows Hokies haven't quit

November 6, 2009

Virginia Tech's poise and motivation faced their sternest tests Thursday.

Nov. 4, 2009: U.Va.'s $2-million error: Not firing Al Groh last year

November 4, 2009

Mere days after season's end, if not sooner, the University of Virginia will dismiss football coach Al Groh.

Hokies all share 'inexcusable' loss

October 30, 2009

Officials called for the obligatory review. But Ryan Williams, distraught and prone on the Lane Stadium turf, told all.

Tribe is built for long haul

October 25, 2009

Only Mickey Matthews knows if he was blowing smoke, but his assessment of William and Mary's football team Saturday certainly was generous.

Can Groh, Cavaliers stop the Jackets attack, again?

October 22, 2009

Georgia Tech coach Paul Johnson outfoxed one of college football's sharpest defensive minds last week against Virginia Tech. Saturday at Virginia he'll challenge another.

Hokies can't handle rush of second half

October 18, 2009

Virginia Tech began Saturday a national championship contender and leading the ACC's Coastal Division.

Even the Hokies' lapses turn golden

October 11, 2009

Ryan Williams gathered the handoff and darted toward the assigned hole. There Virginia Tech's tailback prodigy encountered a 245-pound roadblock.

Vick's show for needed dough

October 8, 2009

If Jon and Kate, Khloe Kardashian and Simon Cowell can make it in reality television, why not Michael Vick?

Apprentice football's 90th anniversary team filled with success stories

October 7, 2009

The Apprentice School football program rescued Jimmy Wilson from the stock room at Sears. He repaid the favor with a 40-year shipyard career.

Hokies' recipe for defeat nearly works

October 4, 2009

Virginia Tech concocted a foolproof recipe for defeat Saturday at Duke.

If Hokies go 12-1, big one's in reach

October 1, 2009

Coaches preach "one game at a time," while players dutifully nod and resume their iPod shuffle.

U.Va. might have reason for hope, after all

September 30, 2009

His program mired in its longest losing streak since 1982, Virginia football coach Al Groh spent part of Saturday searching for life rafts.

Hokies border on flawless in beatdown

September 27, 2009

A beatdown from the get-go. That's what many suspected would transpire Saturday at Lane Stadium.

Battle for control: Miami at Virginia Tech

September 24, 2009

No ACC football team ever has won its first three conference games and then lost the league title to one of its early-season conquests.

Let Tyrod be Tyrod

September 23, 2009

Virginia Tech is in trouble Saturday against Miami. The most impressive team of this young college football season, the Hurricanes are wicked fast, well-rested and riding a big-armed quarterback.

'It's hard to say goodbye' to Kingsmill

September 22, 2009

At least the burial was proper.

Two sandlot plays save inept Hokies offense

September 20, 2009

Virginia Tech was 88 yards from the winning touchdown. The Hokies had gained 58 yards on their previous six possessions. Combined!

MAKE OR BREAK

September 17, 2009

They lost to Alabama and waxed Marshall. What else to expect from Virginia Tech's football team?

Regional rivalries aren't highest priority for Hampton Roads football teams

September 16, 2009

Hampton Roads is home to four Division I college football programs hailing from two conferences. Which logic says would create natural, interleague, regional rivalries.

Yes, the Cavs are that bad right now

September 13, 2009

Don't be conned by spin doctors, delusional fans or hollow touchdowns. Virginia's football team was embarrassingly inept Saturday.

Eyes on an encore

September 10, 2009

If stability does not morph into stagnancy, Mike Tomlin has a puncher's chance of joining Vince Lombardi, Don Shula and Bill Belichick as coaches to win consecutive Super Bowls.

Sept. 9, 2009: Al Groh's job teetering at Virginia

September 9, 2009

If past is prelude, the University of Virginia should brace for a miserable football season. And we all know what that would mean.

Tech's loss capped a woeful week for the ACC

September 6, 2009

Virginia Tech was the ACC's last hope Saturday. But the Hokies' anemic offense – sound familiar? -- finally caused their demise against No. 5 Alabama.

Tribe will try to beat the spread ... Virginia's offense, that is

September 4, 2009

In plotting strategy for William and Mary's football opener, defensive coordinator Bob Shoop studied tape of Oregon, Texas Tech, West Virginia, Northwestern and Bowling Green.

Nick Saban's Tide is rising at Alabama

September 2, 2009

Alabama has won a record 21 Southeastern Conference football championships, but none since 1999, the program's longest drought ever.

U.Va.'s first bowl year, Tomlin strike chords

August 30, 2009

Nov. 3, 1984 — Virginia 27, West Virginia 7. En route to their first bowl bid, the Cavaliers earned their first national ranking in 32 years by manhandling the No. 12 Mountaineers in Morgantown. West Virginia had just defeated Boston College ( Doug Flutie's Heisman season) and Penn State in succession, but U.Va.'s Steve Morse and Howard Petty ran at will.

Kids don't belong on national TV

August 26, 2009

Summer is waning, "The Office" is in reruns, and the baseball team of my misspent youth stinks as usual.

Larry Coker working on his own start-up project at Texas San-Antonio

August 23, 2009

Old Dominion's football revival kicks off in 13 days, and no one more appreciates the university's efforts than a former national-championship coach relocated to the shadows of the Alamo.

Hampton native Steve James crafting "The Trial of Allen Iverson"

August 2, 2009

As Allen Iverson's racially charged trial splintered the Peninsula 16 years ago, Hampton native Steve James was a half-continent away crafting one of the most acclaimed sports movies of recent times.

Go ahead: Crown 'em

July 30, 2009

There's no use. The more we buzz-killers attempt to muffle the hype swirling around Virginia Tech's football team, the more wide-eyed optimists ratchet up the volume.

Where to go?

July 29, 2009

Today's flash points include a Harvard professor, Supreme Court nominee and vilified quarterback.

Groh's concern: Avoid getting sacked

July 28, 2009

Seven ACC football programs have changed head coaches within the last five years. Do I hear eight? Nine? How 'bout 10, 11 or the entire dozen?

Hall turns corner at U.Va. as its QB

July 27, 2009

Vic Hall could have complained. He could have flaunted his credentials, questioned his coaches and divided his teammates.

Pilots' Tyler McSwain grounded by church and family

July 19, 2009

Tyler McSwain looked forward to this morning's services at Hope Baptist Church in Sophia, N.C. His hometown friends, favorite hymns and father's sermon.

Andre Dawkins may head to Duke early

July 16, 2009

Graduation, an early exit to the NBA and a late transfer left Duke unusually frail at guard entering next basketball season.

Tough LPGA times mean difficult decisions for sponsors

July 15, 2009

Transport yourself to Brussels, St. Louis or wherever Anheuser-Busch InBev's Czar of Sports Spending may work.

Iverson shows his softer side, but he's not finished

July 8, 2009

Allen Iverson answered questions Tuesday the same way he's played basketball for more than 20 years.

Outside limelight, Cavaliers thriving

June 7, 2009

Their names are unfamiliar and send spell-check off the deep end. Their deeds rarely make SportsCenter or create traffic headaches on Emmet Street.

ACC again proves its baseball clout

June 3, 2009

For a conference that hasn't produced the national champion since the Dodgers played in Brooklyn, the ACC sure plays gripping baseball.

Pilots keep the fans coming back

May 29, 2009

The rain started at War Memorial Stadium on Thursday long before Peninsula Pilots faithful realized.

U.Va. alum eager to boost recruiting

May 20, 2009

Jason Williford returns to the University of Virginia as an assistant basketball coach with a clear and daunting challenge:

Kerr finds Zen ... will Open follow?

May 11, 2009

The tournament and its champion stated their cases Sunday. Quite eloquently at that.

Could today be event's lifeline?

May 10, 2009

For all we know, the deal is done. For all we know, some Belgian brewmaster/ beancounter has decided to terminate the Michelob Ultra Open at Kingsmill.

Tee off at Games?

May 8, 2009

The LPGA Tour played to form Thursday at Kingsmill, which translates to a veritable Embassy Row leaderboard.

Baggin it for the day

May 7, 2009

Eighteen holes, no paramedics.

Wren recalls area's first LPGA tourney

May 7, 2009

Nancy Wren turned 68 Sunday, and just a few hours before family descended upon her Suffolk home, the phone rang.

RIR yields surprising standings shuffle

May 3, 2009

Racin' faced long odds Saturday night.

Junior's mature stance

April 30, 2009

Dale Earnhardt Jr. is NASCAR's most popular driver. Has been since his father died on the last lap of the 2001 Daytona 500.

Hiring Sexton a no-brainer for Phoebus

April 23, 2009

Stan Sexton could have stayed in the nest. Remained an assistant coach and Bill Dee's heir apparent.

Fit, fast at 50

April 22, 2009

Given NASCAR Nation's music tastes, it's only fitting to liken Mark Martin's victory at Phoenix on Saturday to a Toby Keith lyric.

Can't tell if spread will save Cavaliers

April 19, 2009

The bailout plan for University of Virginia football, coordinator Gregg Brandon's spread offense, had its first public rollout Saturday.

Given the quality of probable returnees, ACC football should keep improving

April 16, 2009

ACC football improved last season. Given the depths of 2007, that may be damning with faint praise, but the progress was undeniable.

No restful retirement

April 15, 2009

Less than six months removed from the LPGA Tour, Annika Sorenstam has no itch to return. She's too busy conquering other worlds.

A Spartan chance

April 6, 2009

The center who escaped war-ravaged Sarajevo, the forward who endured his father's imprisonment, the coaches chasing their second national championship.

Gritty Spartans ensure NCAA won't have awkward UConn trophy moment

April 5, 2009

In their sodium-pentathol moments, NCAA suits had to crave this.

Watts basks on UNC bench

April 3, 2009

Justin Watts' stat line had more zeroes than an AIG bonus check. No points, shots, free throws, rebounds, assists or steals.

Hoos seek U-turn II

April 2, 2009

As chairman of the NCAA tournament selection committee in 2006, Craig Littlepage endured shrill, incessant and patently ignorant barbs for the panel's inclusion of several teams from so-called "mid-major" conferences.

Slowly challenging

April 1, 2009

The University of Virginia hired Tony Bennett as its basketball coach Monday but will not introduce him publicly until today. During the interim we are left to sift through predictably glowing testimonials, and to parse the numbers he compiled in three seasons at Washington State.

Griffin's brilliance can't stop Tar Heels

March 30, 2009

Blake Griffin had just made the play of the game, and perhaps this NCAA tournament, an extraterrestrial — he reached into the heavens — one-handed dunk of an Austin Johnson lob pass.

Hansbrough, Griffin await rare matchup

March 29, 2009

Roy Williams says he'd rather eat a peanut-butter cookie than watch Tyler Hansbrough and Blake Griffin play one-on-one.

Suddenly hot guard sparks Oklahoma

March 28, 2009

The national player of the year scored 30 points, snared 14 rebounds and doinked the left side of his head on the backboard.

ACC takes big stage

March 19, 2009

Two years ago, the ACC placed seven teams in the NCAA men's basketball tournament for the first time. The record haul proved fool's gold.

Despite key call, try not to cry foul

March 14, 2009

Tyler Hansbrough fouled J.T. Thompson. Video and still photographs prove it beyond a reasonable doubt.

Can't separate ACC, Big East? Why care?

March 12, 2009

Perennial and pointless. Intriguing and infuriating. Comical and confusing.

VCU sophomore's upside seems as large as 7-7 wingspan

March 11, 2009

Four-plus years ago, a soft-spoken, home-schooled, genetically gifted teen on Florida's Atlantic coast began playing organized basketball.

Unified Cavaliers provide new hope

March 8, 2009

Virginia athletic director Craig Littlepage summarized the Cavaliers' basketball team succinctly and accurately.

Damaging defeat

March 1, 2009

Seth Greenberg believes his Virginia Tech Hokies belong in the NCAA tournament. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski concurs.

Cavaliers dominate listless Hokies inside

February 19, 2009

With Jeff Allen suspended, Virginia Tech needed its secondary players to emerge Wednesday night at Virginia.

Rams vs. Monarchs is best CAA duel

February 15, 2009

No one has to sell Jim Corrigan on Duke-North Carolina. A college basketball maven from birth, he grew up in the Tar Heel state, played at Duke and watched his uncle, Gene Corrigan, serve as ACC commissioner.

Tomlin proves that Rooneys made the right call

February 2, 2009

TAMPA, FLA.

Eyes on a Super prize

February 1, 2009

The most important football game Mike Tomlin ever played was among the most forgettable.

Glory on a paved road

January 30, 2009

Prevailing wisdom says the Pittsburgh Steelers interviewed Mike Tomlin for their head-coaching position because, in part, he's black. Tomlin himself concurs.

Tech can cherish amazing finish

January 2, 2009

They saved their best for last.

Orange Bowl's buzz sour

January 1, 2009

One week hence, Dolphin Stadium will host one of college football's most anticipated postseason collisions in modern times: Oklahoma versus Florida in the Bowl Championship Series national title game.

Hokies eager to end BCS woes of ACC

December 28, 2008

The streak began nine years ago, courtesy of the worst offense in Bowl Championship Series history.

First start is a bear

December 26, 2008

Jaymes Brooks first heard the news from a teammate.

Unexpected success moves Tech to tears

December 7, 2008

You could see it in their eyes, hear it in their voices, feel it in their hands. This one was different.

Memory Lane

November 27, 2008

Saturday is no time for sentiment. No time to ponder finality, reflect on a career, or worry if Mom's going to cry.

Tribe QB has 'faith' despite off day

November 23, 2008

Jimmye Laycock's halftime chat with Jake Phillips was remarkably brief and upbeat Saturday afternoon.

Plan could foster dissent

November 20, 2008

When Frank Beamer's hall of fame tenure as Virginia Tech's football coach ends, defensive coordinator Bud Foster will be a strong candidate to succeed him.

Odd offense leaves Tech out of control

November 14, 2008

Virginia Tech forfeited control of the ACC's Coastal Division football race Thursday.

Retirement isn't Smith's option play

November 9, 2008

The third quarter had just expired Saturday, and his Hampton Crabbers led by four touchdowns. But one of Mike Smith's offensive linemen had whiffed on a block, and the "old geezer" of a head coach was not pleased.

Offense is better, thanks to Evans

November 7, 2008

November college football dawned at Virginia Tech as it usually does these days: with a Hokies' victory.

Cavs resolve will be tested

November 2, 2008

Virginia's football team shed the embarrassment at Duke with remarkable resolve.

Poll has Cavs, Tech chasing big fish

October 27, 2008

Be the handicapping elementary or advanced, the places of Virginia and Virginia Tech in this season's ACC basketball food chain seem clear.

Peerman's guts fuel Cavaliers' rise

October 26, 2008

Start with Cedric Peerman, the oft-injured, God-fearing, tackle-breaking machine with the mean stiff-arm.

Offense culprit in Tech's loss

October 19, 2008

Absent a timeout, Virginia Tech had 68 seconds to travel 71 yards. It was a daunting challenge for the most potent offense.

Freshman quarterback's speed leads huge Gaines for the Captains' offense.

October 12, 2008

The future of Christopher Newport football is a former state hurdling champion who hated the Rat Line and landed on Shoe Lane thanks in part to an offensive lineman's misfortune.

Simply stunning

October 5, 2008

One coach figured to be daring, the other gun-shy. Both went against type Saturday night, setting the stage for one of the most confounding college football results the commonwealth has ever witnessed.

Tough Tyrod shows Tech can pass, too

September 28, 2008

Safety Larry Asante blitzed untouched off the left edge and planted Tyrod Taylor just as he uncorked the pass. Didn't matter. Taylor threw a 34-yard strike to Jarrett Boykin.

Just call this one a great escape for Tech

September 21, 2008

Last week was petty larceny. This was a Brink's job.

Even grounded, Hokies can enjoy it

September 14, 2008

Bryan Stinespring threw a headlock on his son. Then he cradled one daughter in his left arm and another in his right.

Hokies in trouble, but Tyrod can save day

September 7, 2008

For just a moment, forget the quarterback melodrama. Disregard the redshirt, the reversal and the rotation. Remove yourself from the mob mentality of message boards, talk radio and chain e-mail.

USC speed aside, Cavs must atone

August 31, 2008

Maybe they'll feel differently after viewing the tape. Or if they embark on a significant winning streak. Or if Southern California proves unbeatable.

Keyes over Kirby was a tough call to make

August 28, 2008

Picking the best is daunting, delusional and thankless.