Super Bowl, super bowling to start your day

A five-point way to start your day while wondering how long it will be before Brett Favre makes his retirement official -- again:

1. Start Your Wagers

The early line has Indianapolis as a four-point favorite over the New Orleans Saints in the Super Bowl though that's likely to wiggle some, especially early.

That's purely about football. On the emotional side, the Saints will be the overwhelming favorite (and the certain pick of those above) given their history and what happened in New Orleans with Hurricane Katrina. Get ready to hear a lot -- a whole lot -- about that.

Can't decide? You have time. The game is Feb. 7.

2. Who's League Is it?

After a busy weekend of ACC basketball, the new week begins with Virginia and Maryland (and coach Gary Williams, below) tied for the lead with matching 3-1 records. Not exactly the way most of us saw it shaking it out -- but it's still relatively early.


3. Say Hello To Carmelo

Their six-game winning streak behind them, the Bobcats start a long western swing tonight in Denver dragging a two-game losing streak with them. It doesn't help that the trip starts against one of the NBA's hottest teams, featuring Carmelo Anthony, and in the mile-high atmosphere of Denver. It's on SportsSouth starting at 9 p.m.

4. Bill's Big Day?

Charlotte native Bill Haas (right) starts the final round of the rain-delayed Bob Hope Classic one shot behind co-leaders Alex Prugh and Bubba Watson. Haas, son of Jay, is still seeking his first PGA Tour victory.

Want to watch? It's on the Golf Channel, with coverage starting at 3 p.m.




5. Want To Go Bowling?

On Sunday, Kelli Kulick (left) became the first woman to ever win a PBA event, naturally raising the question of whether it will spark new interest in bowling. Given the weather around here recently, bowling beats most of the outdoor alternatives.

-- Ron Green Jr.