Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, 9.12.14: NXT Takeover 2

By @BSA1978.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon is here, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE. Today's edition is the NXT Takeover 2 pay per view.

Now I haven't covered much NXT in the past, just pay per view recaps. I just want to say that if you haven't seen NXT yet, definitely check it out. NXT is WWE's brand for up and coming talent that will one day make it to the main roster in WWE. Current guys and gals on the main roster like Cesaro, Bo Dallas, The Wyatt Family, Adam Rose, Fandango, Rusev, A.J. Lee, Paige and Emma were brought up through the NXT system and groomed into the WWE stars that they are today.

Looking at the current NXT roster, there is some incredible talent on its way to WWE soon. Adrian Neville, the current NXT World Champion, is making a name for himself and catching the eyes of the fans with his arsenal of ground wrestling and high flying moves. Speaking of high flying, check out Sami Zayn. I demand everyone to go watch Cesaro vs Sami Zayn in a "2 out of 3 Falls Match" then watch their match from NXT Arrival, both five star classics. Over in the tag team division, the next rising team is the current NXT Tag Team Champions, The Ascension. The Ascension, Viktor and Konnor, have been dominate with their power and speed. Viktor was trained by Bruce and Keith Hart, so he has that Hart Family mentality in his arsenal as well. Over in the Women's Division, Charlotte Flair, the current NXT Women's Champion and the daughter of the "Nature Boy" Ric Flair, is the current rising diva to watch. Other up and comers to keep an eye on are Tyler Breeze, Corey Graves, Bayley, New Japan Wrestling icon KENTA and independent wrestling icons Prince Devitt and Kevin Steen. I see every one of those mentioned on the WWE roster soon.

Alright let's get to last nights pay per view on WWE Network entitled NXT Takeover 2, live from Winter Park in Orlando, Florida.

- "NXT World Tag Team Championship Match": The Ascension (c) vs Sin Cara and Kalisto: Kalisto climbs the ropes and leaps over Viktor. Viktor connects with a huge clothesline, dropping Kalisto. The Ascension set Kalisto up for the "Fall of Man". Sin Cara, however, grabs Konnor’s leg and distracts the champs. Viktor sends Sin Cara flying off the apron but gets hit with "Salida del Sol" by Kalisto. Kalisto covers for the pinfall and Kalisto and Sin Cara are the NEW NXT World Tag Team Champions.

- In Ring Promo with Sin Cara and Kalisto: Sin Cara says it feels incredible to have just beaten the longest reigning NXT World Tag Team Champions. Kalisto says tonight they are Lucha Dragons and the future starts now.

- Backstage Promo with Adrian Neville: The NXT World Title gives him validation. He's proven a lot of people wrong that said he didn't belong here. He chose tonight's fatal four way cause he likes to take risks. He's beaten all three of his opponents in singles matches, tonight he beats them all in one match.

- CJ Parker vs Baron Corbin: Corbin hits a clothesline then an STO for the pinfall.

- Backstage Promo with Tyson Kidd: Tyson describes all three of his opponents tonight in the fatal four way match then takes credit as that being what everyone says about him. He wants to prove that he can get the job done and isn't just Nattie Neidhart's husband. Tonight his wife isn't involved and he wins the NXT World Title for himself.

- In Ring Promo with Enzo and Colin: Enzo makes fun of his opponent tonight, Sylvester Lefort. Says he's going to punch him in the mouth and then rattles off the different hair styles he's going to give him in their "Hair vs Hair Match".

- "Hair vs Hair Match": Sylvester Lefort (w/Marcus Louis) vs Enzo Amore (w/Colin Cassady): Marcus tries to interfere but gets pulled off the apron by Colin. Colin lays Marcus out with a clothesline as Enzo rolls up Lefort for the pinfall. After the match, Lefort tries to escape his fate, but Colin clotheslines Lefort. Colin then gets hit from behind by Marcus. Colin and Enzo brawl with Marcus by the barber chair. Colin hits a big boot on Marcus and Enzo dumps a bucket of gunk over Marcus' head.

- Backstage Promo with Tyler Breeze: Says the NXT Universe will get what they want tonight, a gorgeous champion. The Era of Gorgeous is about to begin.

- In Ring Promo with NXT General Manager William Regal: Shows a video package of newcomer, KENTA. After the video package, Regal introduces KENTA. KENTA makes his way to the ring and is welcomed by Regal. KENTA speaks in Japanese and says he's happy to be in NXT and a future WWE superstar. His goal is to be a future NXT World Champion and is changing his wrestling name to Hideo Itami as a tribute to one of his heroes. The Ascension hit the ring and attack Itami and send him to the floor. The Ascension want a rematch for the NXT Tag Team Championship. Itami gets back in the ring and unloads on Viktor and Konnor with kicks and forearms sending both men out. Itami grabs a chair and sits inside the ring, daring The Ascension to come back.

- Bull Dempsey vs Mojo Rawley: Bull goes to the top rope and hits a diving head butt to the ribs on Mojo for the pinfall. After the match, Bull climbs the ropes and hits another head butt to the ribs on Mojo.

- Backstage Segment: Enzo and Colin are in the back looking for Marcus and Lefort. They find Marcus with a towel over his head, hiding his now bald head. Lefort runs away as Colin and Enzo grab Marcus and drag him back to the ring area. They pull off the towel and Marcus is bald with no eyebrows.

- "NXT Women's Championship Match": Charlotte Flair vs Bayley: Charlotte goes to the top rope and lands a moonsault on Bayley, but Bayley kicks out at two.

Charlotte hits "Natural Selection" and scores the pinfall to retain the NXT Women's Championship. After the match, Sasha Banks arrives and enters the ring.Banks stands over Bayley and is about to attack her. Charlotte steps in and shoves Banks into the turnbuckle. Banks changes her mind and leaves the ring.

- Backstage Promo with Sami Zayn: States that he has always been underestimated. If he loses, he tries again. His goal is the NXT World Title. Adrian Neville is his friend but Neville is the guy Zayn would love to beat.

- "NXT World Championship, Fatal Four Way Match": Adrian Neville (c) vs Tyler Breeze vs Tyson Kidd vs Sami Zayn: This match was an all out brawl. Inside the ring, outside the ring, into the guardrails, up the ramp and onto the stage. Suplex spots delivered on the ramp and stage areas by all four men. All out brawl throughout the match. Kidd hits a fishermen's swinging neckbreaker on Zayn for a near fall. Kidd with the "sharpshooter" on Zayn but Zayn escapes. Breeze hits the "Beauty Shot" on Zayn and Neville and gets a near fall on Neville. Kidd, Neville and Breeze are taken down by Zayn with the tower of doom off the top rope and Zayn gets a near fall on Kidd. Neville hits a shooting star press on Zayn and Breeze tries to steal the pinfall but Zayn kicks out at two. Kidd blocks another "Beauty Shot" and locks Breeze in the "sharpshooter". Neville breaks it up right as Breeze was about to tap. Zayn hits the "Helluva Kick" on Kidd but Neville pulls the referee out of the ring before a pin is made.

Zayn confused at why the count stopped catches a super kick from Neville. Neville climbs the ropes and hits "Red Arrow" on Zayn to score the pinfall and retain the NXT World Title. Neville celebrates with his title as Takeover 2 comes to a close.

And that's a wrap, stay tuned for the following recaps coming up in the future.
- Saturday: Smackdown recap
- Tuesday: RAW recap
- Thursday: TNA Impact recap

Till then, tap or snap!

Around the B1G with K8, 9.12.14

By @ClvlndK8

It was a ROUGH weekend for the Big Ten, going a dismal 8-5 and losing some high profile games. But that's not the big news this week. Overshadowed by the Ray Rice Situation in the NFL, the announcement that Penn State's Bowl Ban was lifted and that all scholarships will be reinstated for next season broke with very little fan-fare.

After instituting the harsh penalties against the football program, Former Senator George Mitchell was named Integrity Monitor and, for five years, is in charge of monitoring the institution and reporting on their progress in changing the culture that led officials to cover up child abuse. He gives Penn State high praise for following the recommendations of the Freeh report and making an immediate impact on their culture.

Leadership Changes:  New president Eric Barron and new athletic director Sandy Barbour represent a clear break with the past and movement forward with a new culture. 

Compliance Program: A new compliance program is being implemented that puts the oversight of athletics outside of the Athletics department to ensure that University leaders and the Board of Trustees are aware of everything going on.

Office of Ethics and Compliance: the new OEC, lead by Regis Becker, is providing oversight, guidance and training on all Penn State campuses, not just for the athletic departments.  Athletics Integrity Officer Julie Del Giorno and Associate Athletic Director for compliance Matt Stohlberg both report directly to Becker, thus avoiding any conflicts of interest. Del Giorno monitors athletes, coaches and others and has investigated 11 compliance complaints during the past year. Four have been closed while seven remain under investigation.  Mitchell also noted that an increased in the number of violations being reported by Penn State shows the improvement in their process and bodes well for their efforts to follow NCAA and Big Ten rules.

After receiving Mitchell's report and his recommendation that Penn State's bowl ban be lifted and scholarships returned, the NCAA board of directors agreed and immediately announced the change in the sanctions.

"Penn State has made remarkable progress over the past year," said South Carolina president Harris Pastides, a member of the NCAA's board of directors. "The board members and I believe the executive committee's decision is the right one. It allows both the university and the association to continue to move toward a common goal of ensuring that educating, nurturing and protecting young people is a top priority."  


Now, as a fan of college football and especially the B1G, this is great news.  I like the fact that the university is taking what happened seriously, sharing in the responsibility for the cover-up and making changes. And I like the fact that the Big Ten gets back a school that has a really good football team for Bowl Season. And most especially I love the fact that QB Christian Hackenberg will get some positive attention this season and make a strong run for the Heisman. In fact, I haven't heard anyone complain about the sanction being lifted

Respectfully Submitted,

Cleveland Kate

TV Tonight 9.11.14

By @neveRWilliams

NFL
Thursday Night Kickoff (CBS/NFL Network, 7:30 PM)
Steelers @ Ravens (CBS/NFL Network, 8:25 PM)

COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Louisiana Tech @ North Texas (CBS SportsNet, 8 PM)
Houston @ BYU (ESPN, 9 PM)

MLB
Rays @ Yankees OR Pirates @ Phillies (MLB Network, 7 PM)

WOMEN's BASKETBALL
U.S. National Team Scrimmage: Red vs. White (ESPN 2, 7 PM)

===

The Biggest Loser, SEASON PREMIERE (NBC, 8 PM)
The Quest (ABC, 8 PM)
Haven, SEASON PREMIERE (SyFy, 8 PM)

Rush (USA, 9 PM)
Dating Naked (VH1, 9 PM)

Married (FX, 10 PM)
Ridiculousness (MTV, 10 PM)
Satisfaction (USA, 10 PM)
You're The Worst (FX, 10:30 PM)
Snack-Off (MTV, 10:30 PM)

Black Jesus (Cartoon Network, 11 PM)

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, 9.11.14: TNA Impact

By @BSA1978.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon is here again and it's brought to you by Triple Threat CLE. Today it's all about TNA news and the Impact recap.

Former TNA writer, Vince Russo, is in a Twitter war with Spike TV over TNA. Russo has stated TNA leaving Spike TV would be what's best for business because Spike TV have no clue when it comes to running a wrestling show. Spike TV defended themselves by stating they funded their own money for Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, for TNA shows and UK tours. Spike TV says they've had a great partnership with TNA.

Current TNA guys, TNA World Champion, Bobby Lashley and Dixie Carter's former body guard, King Mo, both competed in MMA Bellator this past weekend. Both Lashley and Mo were victorious in their fights.

On to this week's Impact recap. Impact made its return to the home of hardcore, New York City. We hear the national anthem played and soldiers hold flags out as newcomer to TNA Sgt. Chris Melendez is introduced.

- Sgt. Chris Melendez vs DJ Z: Melendez has an impressive debut match as he scores the pinfall with a "Samoan Drop" on DJ Z.

- In Ring Promo with Bobby Roode: Roode is now the #1 Contender to the TNA World Title. Gives props to Eric Young for their match last week and is now ready to take his spot as TNA World Champion. Bobby Lashley, Kenny King and MVP cut off Roode's promo and make their way to the ring. MVP says that every movie has the hero that wins and lives happily ever after, however, this isn't the movies, it's reality. Lashley hasn't come close to losing at all and the only thing Roode can hope for is a trip to the hospital. Roode says he sees fear and doubt in MVP's eyes but not in Lashley's. Roode says Lashley may be bigger and stronger but Roode has heart and he knows he can beat Lashley. The trio jump Roode and beat the #1 Contender down. Eric Young and Samoa Joe hit the ring for the save. Joe demands a match now that the sides are even, setting up an impromptu six man tag.

- "Six Man Tag Match": Bobby Roode, Eric Young and Samoa Joe vs Bobby Lashley, MVP and Kenny King: Joe goes airborne over the ropes and takes everyone out on team MVP. Everyone hits a big move in the match. MVP goes for the running knee on Roode. Roode dodges it and lays MVP out with the "Roode Bomb" for the pinfall.

- Backstage Segment: Brittany asks Gunner if Samuel Shaw is seeing anyone. Gunner isn't sure but says he'll ask him for her.

- "Six Person Tag Match": The Bromans and Velvet Sky (w/Angelina Love) vs The Menagerie: Rebel climbs the ropes and kicks Angelina Love as she tries to interfere. Velvet Sky rolls Rebel up from behind on the distraction. Sky grabs a handful of tights on Rebel to score the pinfall on the rollup.

- Backstage Promo with Kurt Angle: Angle is going to announce Ethan Carter III's opponent tonight and ECIII isn't going to like it. ECIII is being punished for being critical of his job.

- In Ring Promo with Kurt Angle: Angle is proud of the TNA roster except for Ethan Carter III, who Angle calls to the ring. ECIII arrives and immediately goes on the defense. ECIII says it's not right that Team 3D is being rewarded for putting Aunt Dixie through a table. ECIII is ready to serve vigilante justice if Angle doesn't fix the problem, even if that means taking Angle out personally. Angle says to leave the demands to him and if he doesn't like it then ECIII can go home. Angle reminds ECIII that he hasn't forgotten that ECIII is the reason Angle is sidelined from wrestling at the moment. Angle announces that since ECIII isn't dressed for a wrestling match then he can have a "Street Fight Match" against Rhino and that starts now.

- "Street Fight Match": Rhino vs Ethan Carter III: Rhino rushes the ring and we have a brawl on the floor. ECIII sends Rhino into the barricade, Rhino suplexes ECIII on the ramp. Rhino smacks ECIII around with a kendo stick. ECIII low blows Rhino then delivers a trash can lid shot to the head. Rhino goes for the "Gore" but ECIII dodges and Rhino kisses a garbage can. ECIII hits a knee lift then the "1%" on Rhino right onto a chair for the pinfall.

- Backstage Promo with Sgt. Chris Melendez: Melendez is psyched to be in TNA and happy with his debut match.

- In Ring Segment with Jeremy Borash and the TNA Knockouts: We're about to find out who'll be on the TNA Knockouts calendar for 2015. Angelina Love says it's obvious that its her but Jeremy Borash announces that its Velvet Sky. Sky celebrates as Love is disgusted at the announcement. New Knockout, Havok, stalks down to the ring. Gail Kim rushes at Havok head on but Havok lays Kim out quick. Havok choke slams Brittany then leaves with the TNA Knockouts Title.

- Video Segment: James Storm and The Great Sanada are shown training and torturing Manik. Storm is leading Manik down the path of salvation just like he did for Sanada.

- Backstage Segment: Gail Kim is looking for Havok so she can kick her ass.

- James Storm and The Great Sanada vs Austin Aries and Yoshihiro Tajiri: All four men begin brawling. Aries gets low blowed and tossed to the floor. Tajiri puts Storm in the "Tarantula", dodges Sanada's mist, then puts Sanada in the "Tarantula". Storm spits beer in Tajiri's face and Sanada hits a super kick on Tajiri to score the pinfall.

- Backstage Brawl: Gail Kim finds Havok and we've got a brawl break out. Kim and Havok brawl out to the entrance ramp where TNA officials try to separate the ladies. Havok tosses security guys aside easily as Kim gets dragged to the backstage area.

- "Triple Threat Tables Match": Team 3D vs The Hardy Boys vs The Wolves: This match is match #2 in this triple threat series. Hardys baseball slide a table into Team 3D's face. All three teams try to put each other through a table only to have the table moved. The Hardys go for "Poetry in Motion" but Bully moves causing Jeff to crash through a table. Team 3D and The Hardys brawl on the floor where they are taken out by The Wolves with suicide dives. Brawling continues on the floor and all over ringside. The Wolves are left with Matt in the ring, until Bully and Jeff return. The Hardys take out Bully and dumps him to the floor. Matt gives Eddie Edwards a "Twist of Fate" then lays Eddie on a table. Jeff leaps off the ropes with the "Swanton Bomb" on Eddie, through the table for the win. The Hardys and Team 3D both have one win in the series now. The Hardy's pick a "Ladder Match" for Match #3 in the series.

And that wraps up this week's TNA recap for Wrestling Lockup with Brandon. Stay tuned for more recaps in the upcoming week.
- Friday: NXT Takeover 2 recap
- Saturday: Smackdown recap
- Tuesday: RAW recap
- Next Thursday: TNA Impact recap

Till then, tap or snap!

Leadoff with Lee 9.11.14

By @cleeverizon

-A law enforcement official says the Ray Rice video of him punching his now wife, Janay Rice, was sent to NFL offices back in April. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell claims he, nor anyone at the NFL had seen the video until Monday when TMZ Sports put it on their website.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, the law enforcement official played a voicemail from a phone number coming from NFL offices that stated, "Your right, that's terrible". Ray Rice was initially suspended by the NFL for two games, until Monday when the video leaked and was ultimately was suspended indefinitely by the NFL and cut by the Baltimore Ravens. Roger Goodell and the NFL order a independent investigation into who was on this voicemail and who this law enforcement official is. Former FBI director Robert S. Mueller III will lead the investigation in the handling of evidence in the Ray Rice domestic violence case for the NFL. Apparently 25-30 casino staff members saw the video, with a dozen or more members having access to the recording. To Be Continued...

-Browns head coach Mike Pettine officially labeled running back Ben Tate out for Sunday's game versus the New Orleans Saints. Tate suffered a sprained knee in last Sunday's loss against the Steelers. He's expected to miss about two weeks. Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell will see plenty of playing time this weekend. Monday, the Browns worked out tight end Kellen Davis, but ultimately signed Gerell Robinson on Tuesday off of the Broncos practice squad. Robinson is a former wide receiver turned tight end who can stretch the field. Jordan Cameron has a injured A.C. joint in his shoulder and is listed day-to-day. With this signing, it seems as if the Browns will give Cameron a rest this weekend.

-The NFL and NFLPA are a mere day or so away from increasing the marijuana threshold, modifying DUI penalties and HGH testing. If the two sides can come to a agreement, approximately 20 players could be able to play for their teams sooner rather than later. The most notable players are the Denver Broncos' Wes Welker and Cleveland Browns' Josh Gordon.

-The Cavs officially announced they signed "The Matrix", Shawn Marion on Monday. The 17-year veteran power forward will come off the bench for the first time in his career. He averaged 10.4 points and 8.5 rebounds per game last year. The 6'7", 228lbs forward will offer increased depth for the bench.

-Remember to Like Us On Facebook and to Follow Us On Twitter

TV Tonight 9.10.14

By @neveRWilliams

MLB
Twins @ Indians (STO, 7 PM)
Royals @ Tigers (ESPN, 7 PM)
Diamondbacks @ Giants (ESPN, 10 PM)

SOCCER
MLS: DC United @ New York Red Bulls (ESPN 2, 8 PM)

MMA
The Ultimate Fighter: Team Melendez vs. Team Pettis (FOX Sports 1, 10 PM)

====

America's Got Talent (NBC, 8 PM)
Hell's Kitchen (FOX, 8 PM)
Big Brother (CBS, 8 PM)

TNA Impact Wrestling (SPIKE, 9 PM)
America's Got Talent (NBC, 9 PM)
Under The Lights (CBS, 9 PM)
Legends (TNT, 9 PM)

The League (FXX, 10 PM)
The Bridge (FX, 10 PM)
Taxi Brooklyn (NBC, 10 PM)
Extant (CBS, 10 PM)
Franklin & Bash (TNT, 10 PM)
Graceland (USA, 10 PM)
Ali G: Rezurection (FXX, 10:30 PM)

Woman Crush Wednesday: Beth Behrs (@BethBehrs) #wcw

By @neveRWilliams

PREVIOUS
Woman Crush Wednesday: Katrina Bowden
Woman Crush Wednesday: Velvet Sky
Woman Crush Wednesday: Paige
Woman Crush Wednesday: Kelli Hutcherson
Woman Crush Wednesday: Jade Bryce
Woman Crush Wednesday: Danica Thrall
Woman Crush Wednesday: AJ Lee
Woman Crush Wednesday: Sabine Jemeljanova
Woman Crush Wednesday: Sara Underwood
Woman Crush Wednesday: Rosie Jones
Woman Crush Wednesday: Rosie Huntington-Whiteley
Woman Crush Wednesday: Emily Ratajkowski
Hottie Thursday: Alicia Whitten
Hottie Thursday: Hannah Rogers
Hottie Thursday: Kate Upton
Hottie Thursday: Scarlett Johannson
Hottie Thursday: Emma

On The Mark, 9.10.14: Buckeyes vs. Kent State Preview

By @MarkW2112

Game: Ohio State vs. Kent State

Where: Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH

Time:  Saturday 9/13/14 at 12 PM

After the embarrassing 35-21 loss to Virginia Tech last week, the Ohio State Buckeyes are looking forward to hosting the Kent State Golden Flashes this Saturday at the Horseshoe. While the Buckeyes can't afford to overlook any opponent from here on out, the Golden Flashes won't present the same type of challenge the Hokies did.

The Buckeyes offensive line will look to gel as a unit.  J.T. Barrett will try to bounce back from a topsy turvy performance under the lights of prime time.  And the defensive back field will need to continue working on their coverage skills which were glaringly lacking against the Hokies receivers.

This will also be the first game back for Noah Spence who was suspended the first 2 games of the year.  He and Joey Bosa will be fun to watch on the field together for the first time this year.

I expect a win for the Buckeyes but I also know the Golden Flashes will put up a good fight.

TV Tonight 9.9.14

By @neveRWilliams

MLB
Twins @ Indians (STO, 7 PM)
Royals @ Tigers OR Braves @ Nationals (MLB Network, 7 PM)

NFL
Inside The NFL (Showtime, 9 PM)

COLLEGE FOOTBALL
SEC Storied: The Believer (ESPN 2, 8:30 PM)

WNBA FINALS
Chicago Sky @ Phoenix Mercury, Game 2 (ESPN, 9 PM)

SOCCER
International Friendly, Mexico vs. Bolivia (ESPN 2, 10 PM)

======

Food Fighters, SEASON FINALE (NBC, 8 PM)
Extreme Weight Loss, SEASON FINALE (ABC, 8 PM)
Utopia (FOX, 8 PM)
Big Brother (CBS, 8 PM)

America's Got Talent (NBC, 9 PM)
Hotel Hell, SEASON FINALE (FOX, 9 PM)
Fashion Rocks (CBS, 9 PM)
Face Off (SyFy, 9 PM)

Sons of Anarchy, SEASON PREMIERE (FX, 10 PM)
Finding Carter (MTV, 10 PM)
4th & Loud (AMC, 10 PM)
Sullivan & Son, SEASON FINALE (TBS, 10 PM)
Tosh.0 (Comedy Central, 10 PM)
Adam Devine's House Party (Comedy Central, 10:30 PM)

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, 9.9.14: RAW

By @BSA1978.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon is here, brought to you by Triple Threat Podcast. Another RAW has come and gone and I have the highlights for you in this week's RAW recap! This week's RAW served as the season premiere, even though I don't recall them ever having a season finale....any who. Tonight, RAW, had a very special guest. The one and only.....Jerry Springer. Yes THE Jerry Springer. The same Jerry Springer that hosted a show full of cheating husbands, cheating wives, baby mommas, baby daddies, mistresses, cat fights and a cool head of security named Steve. Tonight's RAW kicked off live in Baltimore, Maryland.

- "Steel Cage Match": Chris Jericho vs Bray Wyatt (w/Harper and Rowan): Jericho lays Bray out and climbs the cage to escape. Rowan and Harper stood below, road blocking Jericho. Jericho leaped off the cage back into the ring and took out Bray, Jericho hurt his knee on the landing. Jericho crawls to the cage door but is stopped by Bray who jumps on top of him. Bray and Jericho both try to crawl out of the cage door. Bray pounds on Jericho's bad knee and then Bray falls to the floor for the victory. After the match, Bray slams the cage door on Jericho's bad knee then lays the Fozzy lead singer out with "Sister Abigail".

- Backstage Promo with The Authority: Triple H congratulates Corporate Kane on signing the Jericho vs Wyatt match. Randy Orton asks for permission to take Reigns out tonight in a way that would make the way Rollins took Dean Ambrose out look like child's play. Triple H approves Orton's permission.

- In Ring Promo with Dolph Ziggler: Dolph Ziggler talks about celebrities getting personal pictures hacked this week. Ziggler shows pictures of The Miz getting a facial and shaving his chest. The Miz and Damien Sandow come out and demand Ziggler to stop showing the pictures. Ziggler shows one more with Sandow spray tanning Miz's naked rear end. Sandow then eats a drop kick from Ziggler as Miz runs from the ring. Ziggler hits a "Zig Zag" on Sandow and dares Miz to come get some. Miz refuses.

- Nattie Neidhart and Rosa Mendez vs A.J. Lee and Paige: Paige and A.J. pick up the win as A.J. force tags herself in and makes Rosa tap to the "Black Widow". Paige and A.J. both kiss Paige's Divas Title after the match trying to one up each other in "crazy".

- Backstage with Chris Jericho: Jericho is getting his knee worked on in the medical room. Randy Orton jumps Jericho from behind and throws Jericho around the medical room doing more damage to his knee.

- In Ring Promo with Paul Heyman: Brock Lesnar authorized Paul Heyman to talk to the WWE Universe about John Cena. Before Heyman can begin, John Cena arrives and hits the ring. Heyman says he wants to give Cena the simple strategy to beat Lesnar. Cena says the only strategy he needs is "Never Give Up". Heyman says he can beat Lesnar by just giving into his temptation and turning on the fans. Heyman begs Cena to turn heel and flip out on the fans. Heyman guarantees that if Cena turns heel he could be the 1 that beat the 1 behind 21 and 1. Heyman closes out by saying his client Lesnar knows that Cena doesn't have it in him to turn heel. After a "Let's Go Cena" "Cena Sucks" chant, Cena, finally tells Heyman to shut up. Cena says he'll never turn heel because he doesn't want to change, he wants to be the hero to the kids and he loves being the inspiration to millions. Cena tells Heyman to bring Lesnar to RAW next week to fight or else Cena will fight Heyman instead.

- Sheamus vs Seth Rollins: Cesaro comes down to watch the match. Cesaro distracts Sheamus, causing Sheamus to catch a "curb stomp" from Rollins for the pinfall. After the match Cesaro plants Sheamus with "The Neutralizer".

- In Ring Promo with Rusev and Lana: The couple arrive, mock America, do a parody of the American national anthem then play the Russian national anthem.

- "NXT Showcase": Sami Zayn and Adrian Neville vs Tyler Breeze and Tyson Kidd: Neville hits "Red Arrow" on Breeze for the pinfall.

- In Ring Promo with Jerry Springer and the Bellas: Stephanie McMahon comes out and talks about the Bella Family issues and wants to bring them back together. Jerry Springer and his security guard Jason arrive. Both Bellas arrive. Jerry listens to both Bellas sides of the story and watches clips from Total Divas where Brie is bullying Nikki. We see clips of the Bellas "parents" asking Brie to be the better sister and leave Nikki alone. Jerry then introduces the Bellas "brother" J.J. He tells Nikki to stop acting like the victim. Nikki and Brie start arguing then a CATFIGHT!!!! breaks out. The Bellas knock over Jerry Springer in the brawl and continue brawling until Stephanie and WWE officials pull the Bellas apart. Jerry Springer hurt his ankle in the catfight and is taken off on a stretcher.

- Goldust and Stardust vs Los Matadores: Stardust hits "Dark Matter" for the pinfall. After the match The Usos jump the Rhodes Brothers from behind and chase them off.

- Titus O'Neil (w/Heath Slater) vs Adam Rose (w/The Bunny): The Bunny super kicks Heath Slater which distracted Titus. Rose hits "Party Foul" on Titus for the pinfall. After the match The Bunny "Superfly Splashes" Titus.

- Backstage Promo with Roman Reigns: Reigns doesn't know what Randy Orton has planned tonight but we should believe in Reigns.

- It's announced that Brock Lesnar will be on RAW next Monday.

- Roman Reigns vs Randy Orton: Reigns hits the "Superman Punch" on Orton. Orton calls for backup. Corporate Kane and Seth Rollins hit the ring with a steel chair in hand, and the cage from the ceiling lowers. Reigns throws Kane and Rollins out of the ring before the cage locks in place, leaving Reigns alone with Orton. Reigns spears Orton and looks to use the steel chair left in the ring. Rollins climbs the cage and leaps into the ring, taking out Reigns. Kane gets in through the cage door and "Choke Slams" Reigns. Orton picks up the steel chair and unloads chair shots on Reigns. Rollins then hits Reigns with the "Curb Stomp" on the steel chair. RAW closes out with The Authority celebrating.

And that wraps up this week's RAW! Be sure to check out these up and coming Wrestling Lockup with Brandon recaps this week.

- Thursday: TNA Impact recap
- Friday: NXT Takeover 2 recap
- Saturday: Smackdown recap
- Next Tuesday: RAW recap

Till then, tap or snap

The Raven Report, 9.9.14 (By @nevaRWilliams)

By @neveRWilliams

-The Baltimore Ravens terminated running back Ray Rice's contract on Monday. The NFL also suspended Rice indefinitely. All of this was due to the release of a TMZ Sports video that shed more light on the domestic violence that occurred between Rice and then fiancee, now wife Janay Palmer in February 2014. While each hit the other, there really isn't ANY reason for that man or any man to throw a punch into a woman's face, body or anything.

The Ravens and the NFL reacted "swiftly" due to the release of the video and warranted outrage from it on Monday morning. Rice, if you remember, was initially suspended 2 games on July 24. Rice, 27, was charged with felony aggravated assault in the case, but in May was put into a pretrial intervention program that let him avoid jail time.

Ravens coach John Harbaugh said after seeing the video for the first time on Monday, "It changed things" and "It made things a little bit different".

Another interesting note, is that the NFL and Roger Goddell said that they also did not see this video until yesterday. BUT, if they did, and Goddell did, and still only issued a 2 game suspension, this could very well lead to the ouster or resignation of Commissioner Roger Goddell.

-The NFL Players Association is set to vote on a new drug policy later today. The vote will consist of the 32 player representatives of each team deciding whether or not to approve human growth hormone (HGH) testing for the first time ever and make significant changes to the testing for marijuana and expand neutral arbitration. Why should Browns fans be interested? If a new policy is agreed upon, suspended WR Josh Gordon could be reinstated and play THIS season for the team. Under the new revised policy, Gordon would not have been suspended. The same could be said for Broncos WR Wes Welker. Fingers crossed...

-Our very own @MarkW2112 found out late last night that Browns running back Ben Tate's injury suffered in last week's Steelers game was "nothing that serious".

@MarkW2112 yep nothing that serious I will be ok thanks for asking

— Ben Tate (@BenTateRB) September 9, 2014

-2014 first overall pick Jadeveon Clowney underwent arthoscopic surgery Monday on his right knee. Clowney is expected to miss 4-6 weeks for the Houston Texans. Definitely not the rookie season anyone envisioned for him.

-Indianapolis Colts pass rusher Robert Mathis has been lost for the season due to a torn Achilles tendon. Mathis is currently serving a suspension for a performance enhancing drug violation, suffered the injury last week while working out.

-Well, I guess 'Happy Valley' is happy again. Monday the NCAA decided to remove the sanctions put onto Penn State in 2012 from the Jerry Sandusky scandal. The NCAA Executive Committee eliminated the postseason ban, effective immediately and returned the full amount of available scholarships in 2015-16 to the school. Looks like Penn State will be in a bowl game this winter, IF they are good enough.

-Sometimes, you just wish you didn't have to do games like yesterday's make up game. The Angels came into Cleveland for a make up Monday afternoon and put the wood to the Cleveland Indians, 12-3. Danny Salazar got shelled for 8 hits, 2 walks and 6 earned runs, including 2 home runs, in just 4.2 innings. Jered Weaver picked up the win for the Angels. Not much you can really say about a 12-3 pounding. Just one of those games you have to try to forget ever happened and get ready for the next game. That next game is tonight at 7 PM against the Minnesota Twins. Trevor Bauer is expected to get the start for the Tribe.

-Major League Baseball announced that the 2015 season schedule will begin on April 5, 2015 and end the regular season on October 4, 2015. Now if you put two and two together, that means playoff baseball will stretch into the month of November, possibly as late as November 5 if the World Series were to get to a seventh game.

-Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 6 later today at their special event.

-In box office news, Marvel's "Guardians of the Galaxy" is at number 1 again, raking in $10.1 million over the weekend. The comic based action comedy has now made $294 million domestic and $586 million globally. "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" held tight to the number 2 slot, adding $6.5 million to its $300 million worldwide tally. Rounding out the top 5 were "If I Stay" with $5.7 million, "Let's Be Cops" with $5.4 million and "The November Man" with $4.2 million. The Idris Elba thriller "No Good Deed" opens this Friday.

-Finally, quite possibly the biggest video game of 2014 is out today! Bungie and Activision's "mythic science fiction", first-person shooter/roleplaying game "Destiny" is out on Playstation 4, Playstation 3, Xbox One and Xbox 360. There is also a new all white Playstation 4 bundle that includes Destiny available today. Check out more about Destiny here on the game website.

TV Tonight 9.8.14

By @neveRWilliams

NFL
Monday Night Countdown (ESPN, 5 PM)
Giants @ Lions (ESPN, 7 PM)
Chargers @ Cardinals (ESPN, 10:15 PM)

MLB
Cardinals @ Reds OR Braves @ Nationals (MLB Network, 7 PM)
Cubs @ Blue Jays (WGN, 7 PM)

======

WWE Raw (USA, 8 PM)
Running Wild with Bear Grylls, SEASON FINALE (NBC, 8 PM)
Bachelor In Paradise (ABC, 8 PM)
MasterChef (FOX, 8 PM)

A Good Job: Stories of the FDNY (HBO, 9 PM)
American Ninja Warrior (NBC, 9 PM)
Dallas (TNT, 9 PM)

Anger Management (FX, 10 PM)
Teen Wolf, SEASON FINALE (MTV, 10 PM)
Under The Dome (CBS, 10 PM)

On The Mark, 9.8.14: Browns React

 A Tale of Two Half's: Browns lose to Pittsburgh 30-27 after incredible 24 point comeback 

By @Markw2112

It was thrilling finish to what started out as a disastrous start for the Cleveland Browns.  But the results were the same as they've been for years; the Browns lose another opening day game, this time to the hated Pittsburgh Steelers, 30-27.  It didn't start out so close.  The Browns came back from a 24 point halftime deficit to tie it up in the fourth quarter.  The Browns offense, however, couldn't move the ball with their last two possessions, including their last in which they went backwards to almost the goal line.  This led to the Steelers getting the ball at their 40 yard line and Ben Roethlisberger orchestrating a drive to the Browns 24 yard line, where Shaun Suisham kicked the game winning field goal as time expired.

The first half of the game was all Steelers.  Roethlisberger ripped apart the secondary, seemingly picking on rookie Justin Gilbert.  He had 278 yards passing the first half alone, finishing 23-of-34 for 365 yards and a touchdown.  He was able to avoid pressure and make will his throws to whichever receiver was there to catch them.  He also had help from Le'Veon Bell, who had 109 yards and a touchdown on 21 carries.

The Browns, led by Brian Hoyer, had a nice first drive, including a 47 yard pass to Jordan Cameron, yet were only able to score a field goal.  After that, it seemed the offense couldn't get anything going.  Ben Tate ran the ball well to start the game but was out of the game by the second quarter due to a knee injury.  Terrance West took his place but couldn't seem to spark the offense either.  The Browns special teams at times weren't so special either, culminated by Antonio Brown's karate kick to the face mask of punter Spencer Lanning.  With Roethlisberger having his way with the defense, all hope seemed lost as the Browns went in to the locker room down 27-3.

But something happened during halftime that lit a fire under the team (whether by Pettine, the team veterans or both).  With the Browns receiving the ball to start the second half, Hoyer led the team 80 yards down field and ended it with Isiah Crowell's first touchdown as an NFL pro.  After a 3-and-out by the defense, the Browns were able to drive it down again, this time from their 41 yard line with another Crowell touchdown.  Just like that, it was 27-17 Steelers.  Another FG and touchdown drive by the Browns and the game was tied at 27.  The Steelers and their fans were shell shocked.  I'm pretty sure Browns fans were too.

Yet, in the end, the Browns did what they always seem to do (choke) and the Steelers did what they've done the past 11 years against the Browns in Pittsburgh (win).  

There were positives on both ends.  The young running team of Terrance West and Isiah Crowell came up big with 132 total yards and 2 touchdowns.  Andrew Hawkins, Miles Austin and Taylor Gabriel had some clutch catches and the defense seemed to play better in the second half with some big time plays by Armonty Bryant, Paul Krueger and Jabaal Sheard.

My take is this: the Browns have another coaching staff with new playing systems on both sides.  It might take time to gel.  But the missed tackles on defense and the play of Justin Gilbert are still a huge concern going in to the New Orleans Saints game next Sunday in Cleveland.  They may not win next week but we can hope they make it fun.  And hopefully no chants for Johnny Football either.

Next game: Home opener against the New Orleans Saints, 1 PM, on Fox.  

(And possibly the return of Josh Gordon?  Stay tuned...)

TV Tonight 9.7.14

By @neveRWilliams

NFL
Football night In America (NBC, 7 PM)
Colts @ Broncos (NBC, 8 PM)

MLB
Giants @ Tigers (ESPN, 8 PM)

SOCCER
MLS: San Jose Earthquakes @ Portland Timbers (ESPN 2, 4:45 PM)

TENNIS
2014 US Open, Women's Final (CBS, 4:30 PM)

OTHER SPORTS
NHRA Drag Racing, Lucas Oil Series (ESPN 2, 9:30 PM)

====

Breaking Bad, Binge Marathon (AMC, 5 PM)

The ABC's of Schoolhouse Rock (ABC, 7 PM)

Utopia, SERIES PREMIERE (FOX, 8 PM)
Wipeout (ABC, 8 PM)
Big Brother (CBS, 8 PM)

Boardwalk Empire, SEASON PREMIERE (HBO, 9 PM)
Total Divas, SEASON PREMIERE (E!, 9 PM)
Ray Donovan (Showtime, 9 PM)
Unforgettable (CBS, 9 PM)
The Great Food Truck Race (Food Network, 9 PM)

The Leftovers, SEASON FINALE (HBO, 10 PM)
The Strain (FX, 10 PM)
Masters of Sex (Showtime, 10 PM)
Reckless (CBS, 10 PM)

Girl Code (MTV, 11 PM)
Last Week Tonight (HBO, 11 PM)