ESPN

THE PULSE

  (4:51 PM)

Send your questions and comments now for The Pulse on ESPNEWS on Saturday from 1-4 p.m. ET. Guests will include ESPN college football analyst Jim Donnan, NFL analyst Merril Hoge, national sports columnist Christine Brennan and college basketball analysts Fran Fraschilla and Dick Vitale!

THE PULSE

  (11:02 AM)

Bowl season is right around the corner, so you know we'll be taking a look at the Rose Bowl on today's show. What do you think of the Rose Bowl?

THE PULSE

  (11:02 AM)

What does each team need to do to win?

THE PULSE

  (11:02 AM)

Could it be the biggest game in college football history?

THE PULSE

  (11:33 AM)

We're also talking about today's NFL action and some big NBA stories (like the Clippers resurgence, Ron Artest and Pat Riley), so sound off on those as well.

THE PULSE

  (12:26 PM)

Hey all, we're getting close to air! Christine Brennan, national sports columnist for USA Today, is on today. Anyone got a question on any of the big stories in the news? Ron Artest? World Baseball Classic?

THE PULSE

  (12:47 PM)

Ok, Pulse fans, we're about 12 minutes from the start of the show. Everyone taking a break from that last-minute holiday shopping to hang with us on ESPNEWS?

THE PULSE

  (12:48 PM)

We've got UCLA up by one on Michigan in hoops, NFL action about to get underway at Foxboro, and we'll keep you up to date on everything right here.

John (philly)

do you answer any questions?

THE PULSE

  (12:50 PM)

We'll be chatting right here during the show, Josh, and our guests will be taking questions on air as well.

Omaha NE

Will the Giants stop the Cheifs? NO and NO again! If they do I will be suprised and it won't be because of ELI.......unless he changes his game and starts using the talent that surrounds him properly and stops making rash decisions in a pinch.......and I'm the biggest fan of my hometown GIANTS!

THE PULSE

  (12:50 PM)

Nebraska has weighed in on the Giants-Chiefs game at 4 ET ...

Jones, Long Valley NJ

KC will score on our banged up defense. with both OTs out we will have to establish the pass in order to get the KC D out of the box and give Tiki the tiny holes and cutback ops he has made so much of this year. The game will rest on Eli's arm and ability to avoid turnovers (5 ints and 1 TD in last two games). A smart plan early on would be short to moderate pass plays with Toomer, Carter, Shiancoe, or Finn as primary receivers, since every opponent has been doubling Plaxico and Shockey and eli seems to have trouble checking down to secondary and tertiary targets. With obth OTs out there is no reason to believe he will have more time to do that today. If those early plays work KC will have to react and the full range of the Giant's offensive weapons may open up. May need a score by the D or special teams to do it, but my prediction is 30-27, Giants.

THE PULSE

  (12:52 PM)

Jones, living up to the "long" in Long Valley with that take on today's game.

THE PULSE

  (12:54 PM)

Sounds like NFL is the story of the day, anyone focusing in on anything else?

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Lets talk some more T.O.

THE PULSE

  (12:57 PM)

I have to guess there's just a little sarcasm there, eh, Irvin?

THE PULSE

  (1:00 PM)

We're live on ESPNEWS and in chat right here on ESPN.com!

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

of course I hear T.O. and i just turn of the TV

THE PULSE

  (1:01 PM)

No T.O. today, we promise.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

It's time for another edition of the Pulse

THE PULSE

  (1:01 PM)

Dang right, Erik. Starting off with the news that Reggie Bush will go pro after the Rose Bowl ...

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

New Topic: Does anyone else (other than me) think Matt Leinart might end up reuniting with norm chow in tenesee

THE PULSE

  (1:02 PM)

Billy Volek isn't a bad option if McNair decides to hang it up anytime soon.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

Who's the firse guest for today

THE PULSE

  (1:03 PM)

We're talking NFL, previewing the games live from the sites.

THE PULSE

  (1:04 PM)

Does anyone buy the Bucs as legit NFC challengers?

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

With the defense the Bucs have, you have to buy them as contenders

THE PULSE

  (1:05 PM)

And Carnell Williams looked pretty healthy last week. Nice if Chris Simms doesn't have to do too much.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Cadillac has to be healthy for them to be contender

Winston (Richmond, Virginia)

Are the Colts getting enough credit. If they beat the Steelers and the Bengals by over 7 points then they should be a obvious choice vs the Chargers.

THE PULSE

  (1:06 PM)

Come on now, the Colts are getting a ton of credit, aren't they?

Charles From CALI

Colts, 2006 super Bowl Champs (Period)No question about that.

Indiana

What do you think about the Colts playing their starters this week, but thinkin about resting them against the Seahwks next week? Is not showing them our plays worth not getting the record?

russell (clemson)

the bucs are comin on strong as of late and you have to like that along with their defense to carry them in the playoffs. not to mention no one else in the nfc is looking impressive

THE PULSE

  (1:08 PM)

Hey, just to let you know, we've got Fran Fraschilla live from Texas-Tennessee to talk a little college hoops in a minute.

THE PULSE

  (1:08 PM)

And don't worry, we'll get back to the NFL with Merril Hoge and more throughout the three hours today.

THE PULSE

  (1:09 PM)

Any hoop-heads out there today?

THE PULSE

  (1:10 PM)

Anyone think Texas can bounce back and still contend for the title? The SportsNation poll suggests a lot of people think the Horns are pretenders now.

Dashawn (New york City)

Do you think J.J Redick had what it takes to be in the NBA?

THE PULSE

  (1:12 PM)

Might get hurt by teams remembering Trajan Langdon ...

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I don't think J.J. Redick willl make that big of an impact in the NBA

THE PULSE

  (1:13 PM)

Nobody wants to stick up for the Longhorns?

Jesse (Los Angeles)

He may have what it takes. We may see soon enough.

sam nashville

how about that Texas Tenn college bball game?

THE PULSE

  (1:14 PM)

That's what we're talking right now, Sam. Fran Fraschilla is live in Austin talking to David Amber, and he'll be taking some email questions in about a minute.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

JJ redick is the next fred hoiberg

THE PULSE

  (1:15 PM)

Is that a good thing or a bad thing?

sam nashville

Texas is going to smoke Tn no doubt

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I don't know if you want to compare J.J. Redick to Fred Hoiberg.

Marc (Pitt)

J.J Reddick = Kyle Korver

THE PULSE

  (1:16 PM)

Could be a good comparison.

Matt (Waterford, MI )

Being the "next" fred hoiberg is definitely not a good thing

John (North Carolina)

reddick can become a great shooter like reggie miller in nba but needs to work on moving without the ball like miller and RIP

sam nashville

Redick is excelent as a shooter his test will be the other aspects of the game in the pros

Jesse (Los Angeles)

TN is going to fall, Texas is going to win.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Good in the sense that he can shoot and defend a lil bit but bad as in that he cant do everything else

John (North Carolina)

anyone else think that t. dean of louisville should be an all american and is underrated in college hoops

THE PULSE

  (1:18 PM)

Another great shooter who might be better suited to college greatness than the NBA.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

The problm with JJ is that he doesn't have the speed to defend the majority of the 2 guards in the NBA. He could develop into a great 6th man, coming of the bench to score in bunches in a short period of time, but the guy he's on will score alot too.

THE PULSE

  (1:19 PM)

The next Vinnie - Microwave - Johnson?!

THE PULSE

  (1:20 PM)

(Update: Eric Karabell is up next talking fantasy football. So if you need help with your lineup, listen up to the next segment).

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

You don't know how J.J. Redick will do in the NBA. Think about this, Some of Coach K's players didn't fare too well at the NBA level

THE PULSE

  (1:21 PM)

Anyone out there still have a fantasy team alive in the fantasy playoffs?

Joey P (Falls Church, Va)

Should I start bledsoe, brunell, green, or collins?

THE PULSE

  (1:22 PM)

Karabell is doing Start' Em, Sit 'Em as we type. But I'd say Green!

Marc (Pitt)

Yup, all six of them

THE PULSE

  (1:23 PM)

All right, all right, way to rub it in, Marc.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

My fantasy team has been dead since Jamal Lewis' parol hearing

sam nashville

how about the pro backs alexander is getting props but without those consecutive 4-9 yard pick-ups by james the colts and manning would fall apart

THE PULSE

  (1:24 PM)

I agree, Alexander was the overwhelming winner in the SportsNation poll, but Edge has been pretty dang valuable.

Marc (Pitt)

Hey I try

Dashawn (New york City)

Should I start Eli or Bledsoe?

THE PULSE

  (1:25 PM)

Eric's talking about that right now, and he's not sold on Manning.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Edge is valuable but with that O-line even moats could do his job

THE PULSE

  (1:25 PM)

Yeah, but are Walter Jones and Steve Hutchinson even better in Seattle?

THE PULSE

  (1:27 PM)

For anyone with an eye on the Michigan-UCLA game, it's tied at 41-41 in the second half. Dick Vitale will be live after the game, taking your questions.

Stefan ( Morristown, New Jersey)

Should I start Tom BRady over Jake Delhomme

THE PULSE

  (1:28 PM)

Karabell said to stick with Brady.

Jesse (Los Angeles)

Will UCLA play better in the third? Or will Michigan take it away in the third?

THE PULSE

  (1:29 PM)

In the third half?

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Its that new math. The third half.

THE PULSE

  (1:32 PM)

We'll also have Christine Brennan up soon to talk big stories (and it's possible there might a few short seconds on T.O. ... sorry).

Matt (Waterford, MI)

i dont care what half it is first, second, third Michigan is still going to get the W

THE PULSE

  (1:33 PM)

UCLA has gone on a run, up eight now

THE PULSE

  (1:33 PM)

Or five, as Michigan hits a three ...

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

That sounds kind of biased Matt

Matt (Waterford, MI)

maybe...just a little

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

I could handle a little bit more of steroids NhL Nba Nfl Wnba pga Naacp I dont care just no more T.O. please!!!!!!!!

THE PULSE

  (1:34 PM)

It'll be brief, don't worry.

THE PULSE

  (1:35 PM)

Ok, here's the run down. We've got the Countdown guys talking NFL right now, then Christine Brennan talking big stories and then Jim Donnan talking college football before the top of the hour.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I don't think the NFL should play games on Saturday, that's reserved for college football

THE PULSE

  (1:37 PM)

Yeah, but there's not a lot of college football today. Although Mt. Union and Wisconsin Whitewater are tied in the Div. III title game.

fred(Wilmington,NC)

the patriots are a six point favorite isnt that a bit much with an injured tom brady, and a solid "D" like tampa bays

THE PULSE

  (1:37 PM)

Yeah, but we all know about the Bucs and cold weather.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

If it was up to me i`ll watch em everyday of the week

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

Who's up next

THE PULSE

  (1:38 PM)

Christine Brennan from USA Today.

Evan Elysburg, PA

You guys aren't giving the Vikings enough credit for coming back after all this drama. The sertainly can beat the Steelers this week.

THE PULSE

  (1:39 PM)

She'll be talking about that whole situation, with the team rebounding even as four players are charged this week from the boat incident.

THE PULSE

  (1:40 PM)

She's leading with the Colts. What do you guys think. Will they go 16-0?

Mike (Palm Beach)

while the Colts attempt to complete a perfect season is quite an accomplishment, do you believe the lack of quality teams will take away from the accomplishment? With victories over San Srancisco, Tennessee, Cleveland and 2 wins against Houston can hardly be considered dominating

THE PULSE

  (1:40 PM)

Yeah, but the Dolphins in 72 had an even weaker schedule.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

No they will be defeated tomorrow by the San Diego Chargers.

Brendan (Boulder)

If they run 16-0 I don't think the weaker teams will take away from it. They beat the Jags twice and have a very good Chargers team and Seahawks team these next two weeks.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Mike, Cleveland is a pretty decent team, even if it doesnt show in the win column

John (North Carolina)

the vikings have come back against no one. they are beating teams like the lions and the vikes won't make it into the playoffs

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I don't know if the Chargers can beat the Colts. The reason is the Chargers lost to the Dolphins in a heartbreaker

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

Not T.O. again. I HAVE HAD ENOUGH WITH T.O. HE'S NOTHING BUT A PUNK CRYBABY

THE PULSE

  (1:45 PM)

It's over, it's over, don't worry.

Mike (Palm Beach)

Irvin, I have not had a chance to follow Cleveland..but they do play tough....I think it would still be a great accomplishment but was just curious what others thought...

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Newsflash people, THE COLTS ARE GOOD!! I think they go up by 12 or 15 at the half and we get our dose of Sorgi for the year.

Brendan (Boulder)

The Dolphins loss may affect whether they are playoff bound or not. But it was because they were looking forward to this Colts game that they choked. They've pretty much been gameplanning for the Colts the past two weeks and took a loss along the way.

Mike (Palm Beach)

Brendan-The chargers may have been looking forward to Indy, but I think the fins, while far from a great team are a vastly improved team...

Dave (LA)

Aaron Afflalo is the best player no one knows about in the ncaa.

THE PULSE

  (1:51 PM)

UCLA is trying to close this game out, but Michigan won't totally fade with 3:23 left. We'll have Dick Vitale live after the game.

THE PULSE

  (1:53 PM)

All right, sorry about that, where were we?

THE PULSE

  (1:53 PM)

Jim Donnan is on right now talking Reggie Bush turning pro and bowl games.

Zach (Yardville, New Jersey)

Do you think Reggie Bush should go pro or should he play another season at USC?

Jesse Gilbert, AZ

Does Reggie Bush play with high school teamate Alex Smith, if Texans say they are not going for him? San Fransisco could try, but are a long shot from playoff talk, probably 10 years.

Brandon , Baltimore,MD

Who agree's me that Reggie Bush will go to the Jets, (if Vince Young enters the draft) learn from 2004 rushing champion Curtis Martin and go on to become the greatest running back since the great Jim Brown back in the 1960's.Plus, if this were to happen, it could start a major rivalry with the Giants, who are rapidly improving with Eli Manning, and it would produce tons of revenue for the NFL, being in New York and all.

THE PULSE

  (1:55 PM)

Bold plan, but the Jets have some work to do (of the losing kind) to get that pick.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I don't know if it would be the right decision for Reggie Bush to turn pro

THE PULSE

  (1:57 PM)

UCLA now up four with 2:19 left.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Any truth to the rumor the Texans won't even waste time throwing anymore games this year and instead just not showp up so they can get Reggie Bush?

Marc (Pitt)

He really doesn't have anything to lose by going pro because he most likely be in the same spot next year

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

I think Reggie, like most people, want's his money a.s.a.p.

THE PULSE

  (2:00 PM)

And if you already have a Heisman and a national title (or two or three), why stick around?

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

Most people not including matt lienart

Evan (Michigan)

What's the UCLA game score?

THE PULSE

  (2:02 PM)

UCLA up five, 30 seconds

THE PULSE

  (2:02 PM)

Or 7 with 20 seconds ...

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

agreed. Just one thing Reggie Bush: Just say NO to Drew Rosenhaus (unless you feel like getting suspended for a year or two)...

John (North Carolina)

he could stay and be first player to win 4 straight national titles

THE PULSE

  (2:03 PM)

That's an interesting point, although LSU fans would argue it would only be three.

THE PULSE

  (2:03 PM)

And UCLA wins in hoops, big games for Afflalo and Farmar.

THE PULSE

  (2:04 PM)

So Dick Vitale is up next, live from Michigan!

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

I want Dickie V to know that his alarm clock has allowed me to keep my not being late for work streak going for the past year.

THE PULSE

  (2:06 PM)

Wow, I've heard of clocks with ocean waves and running streams as alarms, but Dickie V?

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Dipseydoodunkeroobaybee!!!

Evan (Michigan)

DICKY V BABY!

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Trust me, that thing is LOUD. Its woken up my roommate, and his room is on the other side of the house.

Victor alexandria,La

these two will be at the ncaa tournament in march.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Wow, it looks like a Men's Hair Club Convention...

Lee (Asbury, NC)

I wonder how far these teams will go.

THE PULSE

  (2:10 PM)

Wow, Vitale doesn't have much of a voice left after the game. Go figure.

Mike (Palm Beach)

the guy in the back thinks he is posing for a pic!

Evan (Michigan)

Michigan all the way!

THE PULSE

  (2:11 PM)

UCLA does look pretty solid. Cedric Bozeman finally living up to the bill.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Dickie V is the best, bar none...knows the game, and has a passion for it too...

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

I'm trying to listen to this, but the player isn't working. Stupid work computers

THE PULSE

  (2:13 PM)

Dick thinks UCLA can keep it going if they find a third scorer.

Dylan Evans (NJ)

Duke is going all the WAY!! Baby!

THE PULSE

  (2:15 PM)

All right, good stuff out of you folks so far. We've got a little less than two hours left, and we'll be talking some NBA here soon, as well as more college hoops from Arizona-Utah and Princeton-Wake Forest

kurt (Lincol, TX)

let's talk about the Rose Bowl

THE PULSE

  (2:16 PM)

We'll be getting back to football, don't worry.

THE PULSE

  (2:17 PM)

How about the Clippers? You guys think they are for real?

THE PULSE

  (2:18 PM)

Elton Brand sure looks good so far.

Dylan Evans (NJ)

YEA! Brabd is there hole team

Kevin (Annapolis (Maryland))

24 pts a game

THE PULSE

  (2:19 PM)

One of the Artest rumors out there was Corey Maggette for Artest. Good move? Bad move?

Eric, Kansas

The Clips are for real and keep getting better as the chemistry of the team grows. They will go far this season as long as Elton stay healthy?

Kyle (Cumberland, RI)

I think the Clippers will be o.k. They have some veteran leadership with Brand and Cassel.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

Clippers are a true contender

Marc (Pitt)

Yeah, they're going to make the playoffs this year, they have a lot of scoring options this year

Lee (Asbury, NC)

They have a nice nucleus with Brand, Maggette, and Cassell.

Kevin (Annapolis (Maryland))

I say Good Move.. Artest is experienced... and Maggette has potential

Victor alexandria,La

the clippers better look out because denver is right there.

Lee (Asbury, NC)

I say dont fix what isnt broken.

Kyle (Cumberland, RI)

What dpes Artest have to do with the Clippers?

THE PULSE

  (2:22 PM)

Just some of the rumors about where he might be headed. Pacers say at least 20 teams have called to ask about him.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Magette for artest would be a bad move for the clips, it would mess up the chemistry

THE PULSE

  (2:24 PM)

But, playing devil's advocate, it would be nice to have Artest locking down Manu Ginobili, Ray Allen or other guys out West.

THE PULSE

  (2:25 PM)

Tennessee is rolling Texas right now in hoops, and Kentucky is up early on Louisville, for those following along.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

As a Pacer fan, I wouldn't mind getting Maggette, but I don't think its going to happen. The problem is, because of his attitude, they won't get proper value for him, which is a shame since he is a top 25 guy.

Erid, Kansas

I would have to say bad move. yes he is a great player and would add another scoring threat. However it is another T.O. situation. He has a lot of baggage and would disrupt the GOOD team chemistry that they have and the Clips would fall apart. The best thing about them is they are not a selfish team and adding Artest would change all that.

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

I understand that the Pacers would look for a guy with a cheaper contract like Artest's, but why is it so important? Doesn't his low contract value make his stock higher? If I was the GM of the Pacers I would push for a deal with a team like the T-wolves (remember the KG trade rumors?) or even the Pistons for a guy like Ben Wallace and perhaps another player. This would actually make sense because Wallace has been discontented lately as well.

THE PULSE

  (2:27 PM)

Yeah, but Artest is still public enemy No. 1 in Michigan.

Kevin (Annapolis (Maryland))

Yes, I agree with his lockdown D the clips could win it all

Mike (Palm Beach)

MIAMI HEAT!!! With Riley organizing all of the mega stars and their ego's, the Heat is a true contender...

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

I would like him to come to the Bucks. Chemistry-Schemistry. Ron Artest is a top 5 defensive player in the league and has a lot of range. I certainly wouldn't mind seeing Artest in purple. However, this might not happen because the Bucks and Pacers play in the same divison. But I can dream, can't I?

Ian (Knoxville)

Artest is a good basketball player. I think that it was just an impulse what he did last year. I mean, what would you do if someone threw a beer at you?

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Another thing, I highly doubt that the Pacers will trade him anywhere in the east. I don't think they would want to see him in the playoffs. Angry Artest = bad juju for the other team.

THE PULSE

  (2:29 PM)

But on the other hand, wouldn't trading Artest to an Eastern contender be like getting an opponent to pay you for lobbing a grenade into their locker room?

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Also, I don't think the Pacers would be a contender without him. Its hard to find a defender who can score the way he does

Kevin (Annapolis)

What is JuJu?

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

When Ron has something to prove, he steps it up a notch. I wouldn't want to face him.

Victor alexandria,La

new england leads 7-0 in the 2nd.

THE PULSE

  (2:31 PM)

Good segue, Victor. Merril Hoge is up next to talk NFL.

Mike (Palm Beach)

JuJu is MoJo's cousin....LOL!

THE PULSE

  (2:32 PM)

Chris Simms struggling so far against the Patriots defense.

Curt (Denver)

Just when you think Fox can't get any more irritating, they throw in that stupid holiday bell jingle every 2 minutes during the Bucs/Pats game. This ON TOP of Tony Siragusa!

THE PULSE

  (2:35 PM)

And for your hoops update, Tennessee continues to run Texas off the court, up 29-10.

Ian (Knoxville)

Bruce Pearl is now offically my hero!

Derrick (Pittsburgh)

Merril,If Pittsburgh plays Denver in the playoffs, any chance we can get you to suit up for and encore (with different results of course)?

THE PULSE

  (2:37 PM)

Hey now, we're happy with Merril right here in Bristol. No comebacks.

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

What are Simms's stats? Besides the fact that he's struggling today, I am impressed with him so far.

THE PULSE

  (2:39 PM)

Today? I'm showing 5-9 for 44 yards.

Kevin (Annapolis)

Chris Simms is not ready he needs a few more years he has the physical stature but nit he smarts

Ian (Knoxville)

He looks kind of like Drew Brees a few years back.

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

In a few more years Chris Simms will be 30, so I think he better prove himself now.

THE PULSE

  (2:42 PM)

And as the famous economist said, in the long run ... we'll all be dead.

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

134-221 for 1498 yards, 6 TDs and 5 Ints on the season including what hes done today

Eric, Kansas

Chris has plenty of smarts. he is a very intelligent QB and knows the game as well as anyone. he just needs some experience to figure out his niche. Not all young QB's can be Big Ben ya know!!!!

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

that gives him something like a 61% completion percentage too which is very good for his first real season

THE PULSE

  (2:45 PM)

Hey, we pause from footall to talk jerseys. You all finished your holiday shopping yet?

Kevin (Annapolis)

Yes... i Bought a shawn Springs Redskins Jersey

THE PULSE

  (2:46 PM)

I'm not sure it counts as holiday shopping if you buy it for yourself ...

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

nope but jerseys are waaaay to expensive nowadays

Zach (Montezuma, IA)

Nope, I'm actually going to Des Moines to do some later tonight!

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

I got my mike vick jersey for my birthday, I think i`ll get a julius peppers jersey for christmas

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

Did you see those black Horns jerseys? gotta get me one

Kevin (Annapolis)

i didnt i bought it for my son

THE PULSE

  (2:48 PM)

There you go, good man.

Eric (Hays, Kansas)

I have been looking for a Authentic Texas Game Jersey. Can you even buy college game jerseys that are not replicas?

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

If it werent 100 frickin dollars id go for a chad johnson

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Jerseys are expensive, thats why there`s ebay.

Derrick (Pittsburgh)

I bought a Big Ben authenic jersey a few weeks ago. If was off the back of a truck and only cost $75.

Zach (Montezuma, IA)

I go shopping nowadays more often I can hang out here!

THE PULSE

  (2:51 PM)

Meanwhile, Texas not making much of a comeback, down 18 with three left in the first half.

THE PULSE

  (2:51 PM)

And Kentucky rolling over Louisville by 16.

Kevin ((Annapolis,MD))

w Texas was overrated

Derrick (Pittsburgh)

New England dominating Tampa Bay. Up 14-0 and got a turnover. Driving from the TB's 25.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

21-0 New England

THE PULSE

  (2:57 PM)

What do you all think of the Patriots? they've slipped under the radar, but could they battle the Colts again in the playoffs?

nico (Simi Valley, CA)

heck yeah if there was a miracle and rodney harrison got healthy, brady could beat peyton

John (North Carolina)

how good is a healthy patriots team. they are putting up points on the bucs D and playing good on D themselves

chauncey (teaneck)

The Patriots are a good team but they will lose in the first round espacilly if they play Denver?

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

The quick answer, yes. They ARE the Pats, you can't doubt them for a second. And Rodney isn't coming back, not with his knee torn to shreds.

Eric(Hays, kansas)

The answer is NO. Peyton got over the hump earlier this season by finally beating them and with Edge having a great year and one of the best defense's in the league they are going to continue to roll as long as they are healthy!!!

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

Hey they're the Patriots, they will always be the favorites to win the Super Bowl because they are different team in the playoffs.

Chris (Huntsville, AL)

No

THE PULSE

  (3:00 PM)

Chris with the laconic answer.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

WAAAAAAAAY too many haters in the room.

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Can anyone believe the Texas and Louisville scores?

Darren (Austin, TX)

What is wrong with Texas? Arguably we have the top talented team with 3 future first rounders in Gibson, Aldridge, and Tucker. We aren't getting Tucker involved down low and using his size. But what else is making us look so bad?

Eric (Hays, kansas)

I disagree they are not overrated I think they have just forgot how to play ball. Barnes better get their heads back in the game or it is going to be a long season. They have one of the most talented teams in the nation and I am starting to wonder if it is not more of a coaching problem?

THE PULSE

  (3:02 PM)

One hour left in the show, and we'll keep you updated on the routs by Tennessee and Kentucky.

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Texas is overated, they got killed by Duke and they are getting killed at the half

Shane ((Austin, TX))

Oh No! We suck again! (Waterboy)

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

I'm extreamly surprised by the Wildcats today, Especially after the piss-poor performances they have had the last 2 weeks.

Patrick (Palmerton Pa)

Texas has to get that lost to Duke off their minds or they will lose?

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

I think that Tennessee will come up with the win. They have the momentum at the half.

THE PULSE

  (3:04 PM)

And the 20-point lead.

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Gotta like UCLA...former Pitt coach Ben Howland at the helm. Why no love in the polls for Jamie Dixon and this year's Pitt team?

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

The game ain't over yet. If you forgot, there are TWO halves.

THE PULSE

  (3:05 PM)

Although someone earlier seemed to think there were three. Texas may need a third half.

Shane (Austin, TX)

PJ needs to step it up. Also, Buckman and Gibson are out so that doesn't help

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Texas and Louisville are playing sloppy. Texas is still getting over the loss to Duke and loosing by 20 is not helping them.

Eric(Hays, Kansas)

I am a diehard Texas fan but I am not sure that MJ could help them in this game at this point.

nico (simi valley, ca)

ucla is a BIG sleeper and assuming guys like Josh Shipp get healthy, this team can pull off an upset or two in the big dance

Patrick (Palmerton Pa)

Villanova is the second best team in ncaa basketball Duke is the best?

THE PULSE

  (3:08 PM)

What do you all think? Who is the No. 2? UConn, Villanova, someone else?

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

I think I am ready for the Rose Bowl. Basketball sucks!!!

THE PULSE

  (3:09 PM)

Well, that's a little harsh.

Irvin (Puerto Rico)

Villanova no doubt

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

I think Villanova also.

chauncey (teaneck)

I think Uconn led by Rudy Gay is the 2nd best.

nico (simi valley, ca)

foye, nardi and others make villanova no. 2 w/o a doubt

Tito (Hillsdale, MI)

I think UConn because of Rudy Gay

Eric(Hays,Kansas)

I would have to give the nod to either Florida or Illinois. Have played decent schedules and are still unbeaten. Nova is as overrated and UCONN has not played anyone yet.

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

I think that Villanova should be #1 and UConn #2

Patrick (Palmerton Pa)

Uconn is not the second best team even though they beat gonzaga villanova is still better

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

I think that Duke is overated. I don't know about Florida or Illinois #2.

Marc (Pitt)

Hey pulse, you think the big beast will break the record for the most NCAA bids in March

THE PULSE

  (3:15 PM)

With that many teams, I'd say they better.

Tito (Hillsdale, MI)

Hmm.. somebody's a Duke Fan (Trevor)

THE PULSE

  (3:18 PM)

Ok, you heard Dari, we're heading back to talk NBA next.

THE PULSE

  (3:19 PM)

Anyone think Pat Riley makes the Heat more legit contenders?

chauncey (teaneck)

I do Stan Gundy was not used to having all those Ego's on one team while Pat Riley is from the day's that he coached the Lakers.

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Down here in south FL, they keep saying Van Gundy wanted to spend more time w/his family...how ironic that this increase in family time would occur when Shaq came back and after all of the new egos have had a chance to gel...something's a little fishy.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

I think having Shaq back makes the Heat contenders

Patrick (Palmerton Pa)

whoever has Shaq is always a contender.

Giorgio (Clergyville)

Anyone who gets Shaq to play hard makes the team a contender

THE PULSE

  (3:23 PM)

So if Shaq is healthy (and motivated) are they the favorites in the East? Or is it still the Pistons?

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I think Stan Van Gundy got done wrong by his so called "friend" Pat Riley

chauncey (teaneck)

The Heat have more talent then the Pistons but the pistons right now are the best in the east till they are beat in the playoffs.

Frank (Shaw AFB, SC)

Still the Pistons. They have the same team as the past 3 years, AND they are playing a much better offence. They are starting to remind me of the Celtic teams in the 80's. Not so much in the talent department, but the way they play together.

Shane (Austin, TX)

The Pistons because they play the best defense and spread the ball around.

Giorgio (Clergyville WV)

Definately the pistons. They almost won it again last year, and now they're scoring at will.

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Artest is what's wrong w/the NBA...after Pacers held on to him after last year, he wants traded...no sense of loyalty.

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

I heard Reggie Miller say Donnie Walsh will trade Artest, but most likely to a terrible, non-rival team.

THE PULSE

  (3:31 PM)

All right, doing a little scouting for next week. Who is going to be hanging out with us during the day on Christmas Eve, talking NFL?

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

How do I get one of my comments on ESPNEWS?

THE PULSE

  (3:31 PM)

Be here next week, and I'm guessing you'll have a pretty good shot at getting on there.

chauncey (teaneck)

i will

Eric(Hays, Kansas)

I will be here to chat it up

THE PULSE

  (3:32 PM)

And Eric just made it on air with his take on Villanova and UConn being overrated.

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

yes!

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Pulse-are there any games next Sunday or are they all Saturday?

THE PULSE

  (3:33 PM)

Chicago-Green Bay and Minnesota-Baltimore are on Sunday next week.

Marc (Pitt)

Hey i know how much espn loves me so i guess i'll show up for a little while.

Eric(Hays, Kansas)

I have been coming here for almost 6 months and had not had a comment on NEWS until today. Was actually kind of cool....LOL

THE PULSE

  (3:34 PM)

Hey, it's Christmas, we had to hook you up.

steve (mt. airy maryland)

when everyoe says that Eli Manning is so good i dont understnad when his QB rating is only 75, and hes completed only 51% of his passes

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

It's also Hanukkah too Pulse :)

THE PULSE

  (3:38 PM)

Right, happy holidays to all, whatever and whenever you celebrate.

Mike (Rice Lake, WI)

You can't measure Manning by stats. What seperates him from a guy like Chris Simms is that Manning can make plays with his arm. He can lead you back from a late game deficit, and he can gunsling. THe other people in the rookie class havent been able to do that

THE PULSE

  (3:40 PM)

All right. it doesn't look like Texas or Louisville are coming back, but Andy Katz is still up next to talk college hoops.

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

Watch out college basketball here comes the Tennessee Volunteers mens basketball

THE PULSE

  (3:41 PM)

Could they match UConn's double-hoops title? Candace Parker and Shanna Zolman have the Lady Vols rolling.

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Do you think if Texas looses to Tennessee they will drop out of the top 25?

kevin (dallas)

no way this is a fluke ut is missing to many shots

kevin (dallas)

have you seen those threes from over thirty feet from tennessee

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

Do you think that the huge loss to Duke last week is the reason why Texas is loosing to Tennessee or is it because Tennessee is better than everyone thinks?

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

It might happen that Texas drops out of the top 25

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Trevor, it's simple...Texas athletics is overrated and chokes in almost every big game they play.

Giorgio (Clergyville)

I dont think they drop out. Maybe high teens. They were #2 for a reason.

Dieter (Gig Harbor,WA)

College sports are unpredictable you see upsets every week in any college sport.

Eric(Hays, Kansas)

As a Texas fan and a college bball fan it is just plain embarassing. Against Duke it was a little understandable but against unranked and a medicore Tennessee team to get beat just as bad is plain embarassing. I would have to agree with the statement earlier that they are overrated. They have not played like a Top 25 High School team little alone a Top 10 D-1 College team. Barnes is the problem and he needs to figure out how to get his players over the losses and how to rebound from that.

Patrick (Palmerton Pa)

Tennessee has always been a Lady Basketball school but now people will no how good the boys basketball team will be.

THE PULSE

  (3:46 PM)

The question will be is this more Texas being overrated or Tennessee being underrated?

Eric (Indianapolis)

Watch out for the Indiana Hoosiers now since DJ White is coming back from his injury. I think IU will be tough to beat with one of the best PF/C combo's in the country.

kevin (dallas)

both tennesse has proven that they are underated and are better that people think ane texas overated after getting killed by duke and now by an unranked team

THE PULSE

  (3:49 PM)

All right, it's about time for your closing arguments. Anything you want to say, make your statements now!

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Any team ranked in the top 25 that loses by 30+ points to any team is overrated.

Dieter (Gig Harbor,WA)

Texas is overrated if they were going to be a Final Four team they might not have to beat Duke but you hust cant lose by 30+ points to an unranked team.

Eric(Hays, Kansas)

Give me a break. Texas is one of the BEST athletic schools in the nation in every sport. They win conference titles, national titles almost every in some sport. The football team won in Columbus and in the Rose Bowl last year and yes beat a mediocre OU team. The baseball team has more postseason wins and more trips to the CWS than any other school. The list could go on and on. You sound a little jealous to me. (Brian)

Erik (San Dimas, CA)

I would like to hear more about this SEC officials scandal from Andy Katz, if possible later on either SPORTSCENTER or ESPNEWS. I didn't even know there was one until now.

THE PULSE

  (3:51 PM)

Check out his columns on ESPN.com, Erik.

Brian (Lake Worth, FL)

Look out for the Steelers...they have a good chance to win their final 3 games, make the playoffs, and do some damage!

kurt (Lincoln, TX)

Vince Young IS the best college football player in America. Come see on January 4th on ABC. Hook'em Horns Baby. '05 and '06 Rose Bowl Champs

Trevor (Raleigh, North Carolina)

There is no question that Texas is overated and them getting demolished by Tennessee just makes it more visible.

Dieter (Gig Harbor,WA)

I think people are going to have to watch the Seahawks-Colts game Dec. 24 and find out how good this team is, I have watched just about evry one of their games this year and have seen that they can run cat and pass the ball, and also have a solid defense.

THE PULSE

  (3:54 PM)

All right, great stuff today. We'll see you next week for some NFL fun on Christmas Eve!