ESPN

The Pulse

  (5:12 PM)

Welcome to another week of The Pulse on ESPNEWS (Sat. 1-4 ET), the show where guests answer your questions and we air your comments on the biggest stories in sports.

The Pulse

  (5:13 PM)

Got a question for Shawne Merriman, DeAngelo Williams, Barry Melrose, Alex Rios, John Hawkins or the World Cup? Send it in below and tune in for the show!

The Pulse

  (5:14 PM)

Or if you've got some analysis of the World Cup, NBA Finals, NBA draft, TarverHopkins fight, Stanley Cup or the Steelers' hopes of repeating, send those in as well!

The Pulse

  (12:50 PM)

All right, we're counting down the minutes to the start of the show!

The Pulse

  (12:51 PM)

And no matter if it's baseball, World Cup, Stanley Cup, NBA Finals, NBA draft, boxing, horse racing or just about anything else in sports, this is the place to talk about the stories and get your comments on ESPNEWS!

The Pulse

  (12:55 PM)

One of the first topics we're hitting is the big story in baseball, with HGH and Jason Grimsley.

The Pulse

  (12:56 PM)

So what do you all think? Are we ever going to get to the bottom of this performance-enhancing drug mess in baseball?

LALIT J. (ATL)

hey guys why is everyone pounding on Bonds for taking steroids when they haven't even proved it??

Shane (Wabash,IN)

I agree with you LALIT!

Joe (Worcestor,MA)

Bonds should just walk away from the game,im tired of hearing from him and the media about the scandel.

The Pulse

  (1:00 PM)

But does this whole story move things beyond Bonds? It's hard to focus on just one guy if Grimsley starts naming names.

Sam (Indianapolis)

Heads don't grow to the size of semitrucks by themselves.

Tom (Tampa,FL)

Pujols trainer is also the trainer for Grimsley. Kinda weird ,huh?

Andrew (NY)

Grimsley is a nobody in MLB. They need to test Bonds and then I will be happy.

The Pulse

  (1:06 PM)

Even if lots of other people besides Bonds are taking HGH?

Corey (Detroit)

Jason Grimsley has to let out some names for the good of baseball.

The Pulse

  (1:06 PM)

And to save his own behind.

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

How come people keep talking about Bonds and not pitching to him. Pujols before he got hurt would be getting pitches thrown to him in the bottom of the 8th in a tie game when he is the scariest hitter in the league and Bonds would get intentially walked in the first inning of a 0-0 game when even if you pitched to him, he would be hitting at the pace of Pujols, and you tell me that there is no scandel going on

Andrew (NY)

Grimsley will name names or he will go to the big house.

The Pulse

  (1:10 PM)

All right, not much energy on the MLB subject, so let's move over to the NBA Finals.

Tom (Tampa,FL)

What sacred baseball record is Grimsley challenging? Oh yeah, that's right... he's never been much to talk about and he still isn't. We all are aware that it isn't just Bonds, but his attitude towards the whole thing brought all of the attention his way. I'm very interested to see what is done with what Grimsley has said. I'm also very interested to see the names he dropped.

The Pulse

  (1:11 PM)

We'll give Tom the last word on that for now.

The Pulse

  (1:11 PM)

Moving on, we've got the Heat and Mavs for Game 2, with the Mavs up 1-0. Thoughts so far?

Dan (Winnipeg, Canada)

What does basketball got to say for themselves when Shaq, the biggest pilon in the game, who can barely move around is still the best center in the NBA?

Andrew (NY)

Shaq needs to make free throws period.

The Pulse

  (1:13 PM)

What do the Heat need to do to get a win on the road in Game 2?

victor alexandria,la

miami better get with it or else.there in trouble.

Andrew (NY)

Heat have no shot if Shaq doesn't bring his A game. Dampier out playing Shaq. Come on.

ledcow(miami)

They can start by scoring points. Then prevent dallas from scoring so much, then they'll win

The Pulse

  (1:16 PM)

Insightful. Is this Stan Van Gundy?

kevin butkus (carrollton)

they are already in troubledirk and howard had a bad game and they still won by ten

Sam (Indianapolis)

Danny, go watch some hockey. Shaq can play the game well even though he is slow and big.

Andrew (NY)

Dirk needs to step up also. He played like garbage the other night.

victor alexandria,la

i don,t agree with greg anthony at all.

The Pulse

  (1:17 PM)

Why not, Victor? Make your case.

Chad (Kansas City, MO)

I think dallas plays too quick for miami to stay in these finals

Matt (Homeworth, OH)

Wade feeding Shaq the ball and Shaq making Free throws.

Chad (Kansas City, MO)

he played like garbage and they still won, once Dirk gets on his game, i dont think MIami will have a chance

kevin (dallas)

remember what dirk did after game 4 vs the suns he went on to have 50 and 12

Andrew (NY)

Steven A is the man. He should coach the Heat.

Shane (Wabash,IN)

I get tired of hearing Stephen A run his mouth!

The Pulse

  (1:22 PM)

So exactly how good are the Mavericks? Are we watching the birth of a potential dynasty?

Nate (Omaha)

Miami is too old. bottom line!

Shane (Wabash,IN)

I believe it is a little early to call them a dynasty. They have not even one the first one yet.

Chad (Kansas City, MO)

I dont know about a dynasty, but it looks like they have the tools to win it this year. Maybe if they get more solid on defense then we could start talking dynasty

Ted (Sacromento,CA)

Mavericks are a one hit finals team. No dynasty period.

Justin (Iowa)

The mavs are young and talented. They should have a bright future. I believe they will have more finals appearances in the near future.

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

how come the mavs get homecourt?weren't the heat a higher seed?

The Pulse

  (1:24 PM)

Overall record

kevin (dallas)

yes avery is a great coach first year coach of the year he'll get to know the team better and they will be even better the next few years i mean who can stop the mavs i mean phoenix will ware out like they did and the spurs are too old who can take it away from the mavs

Justin (Iowa)

The mavs are a young, talent team. I think they have a bright future with Avery Johnson. I look to see the mavs in the finals again in the near future.

ramon (jacksonville,fl)

mav are done in5 or 6 game no way they are a dynasty,by the way if the sum had amare they wont gone to the finals

Donny (FL)

NO! the mavericks might win the finals but they will not be a dynasty.

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

Sam from Indy, there's more to Canada than just hockey. Shaq is looking alot like his age lately, he is much slower and doesn't have any moves to get past anyone, and still after being in the league for how many years he can't hit a free throw, my little nephew can hit one and he is 5 years old and this guy gets paid 20 million a year to play basketball and he can't hit one???!?!?!?!!?!?!? Come on!

The Pulse

  (1:27 PM)

All right, we're going to get back to the NBA in a bit, checking in with the press conferences for both teams next hour.

The Pulse

  (1:27 PM)

But are there any football fans out there? Because we're talking Bill Cowher and the Steelers next.

The Pulse

  (1:28 PM)

Speaking of teams trying to launch a dynasty ...

Justin (Fredericksburg, Iowa)

I'm a huge football fan here.

jacob (corpus christi tx)

lets talk about nfl

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

As much as the Steelers were a good team I don't beleive they can repeat as champs. With the NFL its so hard to get good teams year after year

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

STEELERS SUCK!!!!!!!i think after that superbowl there will be a long rivalry between the steelers and seahwks

The Pulse

  (1:30 PM)

Tough to really build a rivalry when they don't play all that often, though. Of course, if they meet in the SB again, then you've got something special.

Terry (Memphis)

I'm a steeler's fan, but I don't think they repeat...they were lucky to win it last year (freak play in Indy, Palmer hurt on first play etc). This is like the RedSox world series - a freak series of events, that cannot be repeated

kevin (dallas)

how does he plan on trying to retain the super bowl and to make his team better especially after losing a key player and randle el

The Pulse

  (1:31 PM)

Don't worry, Kevin, that's sure to be one of the things he talks about.

sal (thunder bay)

The Steelers will have a tough go at this year in their division with Cincy, Cleveland and Baltimore all posing as threats. That's 6 hard games just from the division.

The Pulse

  (1:32 PM)

Right now, the SportsNation poll has 42 percent supporting the Steelers, 39 for the Bengals and the rest split between the Ravens and Browns.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Steelers could be home for the playoffs this year..

Craig (Delray Beach, FL)

How much will the steelers miss Bettis?

kevin (dallas)

i don't see clevland as a threat this year but maybe in the next couple of years

The Pulse

  (1:33 PM)

McNair landing with the Ravens certainly makes them interesting.

Terry(Memphis)

every year the steelers lose one or two great players..but somehow seem to find one or two - to stay good enough for the playoffs - but never dominant -again - I don't think the steelers were the best team last season - they were just "destined" by the BUS retiring etc..

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

The steelers will miss bettis very little, Parker is a good running back and much younger

The Pulse

  (1:35 PM)

But how much did it help to have Bettis taking some carries to keep him fresh?

kevin (dallas)

they aren't dynasty materialy but they are good enough to make the playoffs and make some noise in it this year but i feel like it's the broncos year

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Cincy should be worried about their QB first before worry about the playoffs..

Bryan (Fayetteville)

OK, I am already bored from talking about the Steelers.

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

many times duce staley woin't do that.and Jerome bettis was there motivation to win a superbowl.

kevin (dallas)

mcnair will have to learn the playbook the players and the staff so maybe next year but does bill see them as a threat?

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Ravens landing McNair is big easily two to three more wins this season..

Tom (Tampa,FL)

Pats will win SB 41 over the Cowboys.

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

Whoever emerges out of the AFC will have to play the Cowboys in the superbowl.

The Pulse

  (1:37 PM)

Lot of support for the Cowboys in here. Are they the pick to come out of the NFC?

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Steelers and Patriots.....the Pistons and the Spurs of the NFL!

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Seattle still the team to beat in the NFC..

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

Bledsoe carrying a team to the Superbowl?????? What happens if he gets hurt? Quincy Cater just got cut from the CFL (Canadian Football League) so he would be available

sal (thunder bay)

I'm picking the Giants. That front 7 is nasty.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

And then don't blink an eye at Carolina..

jacob (corpus christi tx)

we have T.O.,a kicker o-line and the best linebacker group.

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

shouldn't we consider the Seahawks as superbowl contenders as Darren Woodson said on NFL live there still the best team in the NFCand other then the loss of steve hutchinson the've only gotten better.

mark:evansville,IN

The Steelers caught the Colts on an off week. The Colts will definitely miss Edgerian James, but not as much as you will think. Colts will win their division with Jacksonville a close second. Pittsburgh was hot at the right time of the year and onnly reason they won Super Bowl. Colts will do it at Super Bowl 2007.

andrew (cleveland)

i think that the afc north will be a big problem for the stillers. the bengals will make them play a shootout which the steelers dont like to do. the ravens make them play defense, and the browns somehow make games a dogfight (ex. indy 13-6 last year and chicago 16-14) and i wudnt be surprised if the browns win it with kellen back and a tougher D

sal (thunder bay)

I'm just saying those are 6 games that aren't all guaranteed wins. Losing to each of those teams once could happen.

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

I think that next year's NFC division winners will be the Cowboys, Bears, Falcons/Panthers, and Seahawks.

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

The moves the Cowboys made this offseason make them a instant superbowl contender. T.O.= SUPERBOWL

Scott (Chicago, IL)

no way Jacob the cowboys and panthers are going to be the power houses in the NFC.

The Pulse

  (1:42 PM)

All right, nice work on the NFL there,

The Pulse

  (1:43 PM)

How about getting back to the NBA? Only two groups of fans have teams still playing, but everyone has a stake in the draft.

The Pulse

  (1:43 PM)

So in a field loaded with candidates, who would you take No. 1? And why?

kevin (dallas)

adam morrison he's the most talented player out there

Dan, Winnipeg, Canada

Who are the Raptors gonna pick and then everyone will be disapointed with the pick once again

Bryan (Fayetteville)

If your are Toronto, you already have a Tyrus Thomas, and his name is Chris Bosh. You need a skilled big man, not a jumper. Take Aldridge.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Morrison all the way.. Very good ablities all over the court.

kevin (dallas)

JJ reddick looks good too but i would take adam morrison over JJ because adam morrison is more ready to play in the nba and make some damage

The Pulse

  (1:46 PM)

Not sure too many people are talking about Redick for No. 1. Maybe lottery at some point ...

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

man i would personaly take LaMarcus Aldridgebut they will take Tyrus Thomas.here's some food for thought shouldn't we be looking at the knicks moving up to fifteento get shwane Williams?

Terry (Memphis)

Thomas from LSU - for one reason - the dreaded "upside"

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

Don't count out Andrea Bargnani of Italy. He's a 7-footer, and could possibly help out the Raptors immediately. From Chad Ford's Big Board... "GMs starting to support international scouts' view that Bargnani might be the best player in the draft. But who has the guts to pull the trigger with the No. 1 pick? Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo, that's who."

The Pulse

  (1:49 PM)

You know a big draft fan when he can spell Bargnani.

Scott (Chicago, IL)

The Bulls should defently take Andrea Bargani because have such a huge player the court will always make teams change how they play the bulls.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Its a shame Joakim Noah isn't goin to be in this draft.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Seems like trading that #1 pick plus a future pick for someone established but young that's got a few years of experience would be a good choice, say a Josh Howard?

kevin (dallas)

Bargnani is a steal in the draft not to many scouts have seen him he is a seven footer just like dirk nowitski and the mavs took a risk on him and look what's happened he could be a nother dirk

The Pulse

  (1:51 PM)

Or the next Darko

Woody (Phoenix)

Farmar and Afflalo...please come back!

Billy (Michigan)

the bulls might get ben wallace its rumored if he doesnt sign with the D he wants to go there

Joe (Worcestor,MA)

Marcus Williams to the Celtics is the perfect fit for Boston.

The Pulse

  (1:53 PM)

Result just in from Germany, Trinidad and Tobago tie Sweden.

kevin (dallas)

he could be the next darko but that's what the draft is about taking some risks

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

I'm not as excited about Lamarcus Aldridge as everyone else. I think Rudy Gay should be selected over Aldridge, and Tyrus Thomas.

Billy (Michigan)

hey darko did wonders for us in detroit....

Scott (Chicago, IL)

If JJ Redick goes to Charlotte sometime late in the draft I wonder how he could play with rivals Raymond Felton and Sean May.

Jacob (Seattle,WA)

by everybody bargnani is in unsafe pick because even if he's the next andrei kirilenkothat means he won't start reaching his potential intel his sixth or seventh year in the NBA or his bust all together like darko milicic

The Pulse

  (1:54 PM)

Kirilenko has only been around five years!

benny (texas via oakland)

rudy gay most nba ready just cuz hes doesnt get overly excited hurts him eyes of teams as lackluster but will be a nice 20 pts 8 asst guy rookie season

The Pulse

  (1:55 PM)

Wow, eight assists per game for a wing player? That's bold.

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

That's all true, Bargnani could be the next Dirk, or the next Darko. But my guess is that he will probably end up more in the middle, maybe another Nenad Krstic? He's made the Nets into a 4-man team, instead of just the team with the 'Big 3.'

NAt Bresler (hicksville)

Rudy Gay is amazing. Regardless of where he goes he will progress faster than any other rook.

david (indiana)

JJ Redick is going to go to the rockets were he can play with yao and t-mac they really need a player that can shoot

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Does anyone else support me when I wonder how often JJ will make it off the bench in 5 years?

Joe (Worcestor,MA)

This NBA draft is really weak in talent though,If i was Toranto i'd trade out,get Greg Oden next year.

matt Memphis,TN

Aldridge, Morrison faced weak defensesAldridge face good defenses and he can play defense way better than Morrison

Bryan (Fayetteville)

rudy gay, 20 pts. in a rookie season? how many rookies have ever averaged 20 pts. in their first season?

Nick (Lockport,IL)

the player I would take with the first pick is Roy. The reason is because of the dominance of perimeter play in the NBA today. All of teams that made it to the conference finals had great perimeter players and only one of them had a great post player. I just hope the Raptors or a team that trades up to the top pick takes Aldridge, Bargnani, or Thomas so my Bulls can take him.

benny (texas via oakland)

honestly no one is worthy of a #1 pick ala joe smith draft

The Pulse

  (1:58 PM)

Here's a question, would you rather have the top TWO picks in this year's draft or the top pick next year for either Noah or Oden?

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Noah awesome post presense.

David (Indiana)

I would take oden next year

Alex (Philadelphia, Pa)

One of the best NBA Finals in over a decade and we're talking about the NBA Draft. YAWN

The Pulse

  (2:00 PM)

Alex- Where were you when we started? We talked NBA Finals!

brent (nyc)

i'd rather have noah or oden over the top two players in this draft they should just trade for 1st round pick next year and hope you can get two nba ready players

Richard (Al)

i agree with the joe smith draft comment, but there are some really good talented players coming out

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Give me the top 2 picks if I am a team desperate to get younger, such as the Spurs, who already have franchise players.

benny (texas via oakland)

give me next years draft pick pay out less then this years draft picks and as much as i hate this word the POTENTIAL in oden is too great too pass on and one signing wont kill your cap space

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

Aldridge and Thomas seem to be very similar if teams are looking at both players while in the draft room.

Mark:Evansville,IN

Top pick next year. Noah and Oden will be more attractive choices for teams than Reddick, Morrison, and overrated Rudy Gay.

Scott (Chicago, IL)

2nd choice no offense to Aldridge or Thomas but Oden or Noah are players are players you can build your team around.

The Pulse

  (2:03 PM)

All right, we're checking in live on the Dallas press conference. So now is your time to sound off on the Mavericks.

victor alexandria,la

dallas sucks.

The Pulse

  (2:04 PM)

Not quite the level of enlightened analysis we're looking for ...

Ricci (Chicopee Ma)

I think they will take the series

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

The Mavericks made en excellent choice, in selecting Avery Johnson as coach. It seems like he's been coaching forever.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Please pass the aspirin Avery Johnson is talking...

The Pulse

  (2:05 PM)

Just how good is Avery? Would a win here put him in the top two or three? Top five? Not in the top 10?

brent (nyc)

the mavs should be thrilled but they can't play the tempo that miami wants to play and expect to win the series

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Look at the difference at how much both teams can improve for game 2. Miami can get the ball to Shaq more, but Howard and Dirk can shoot much better, Dallas can rebound better and play better first half defense. The upside is much more in Dallas' favor, and they still won game 1 by 10.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Avery Johnson won two awards this year Coach of the Year. And most annoying personality in the NBA just ahead of Mark Cuban.

Aman (Lagrangeville, NY)

Avery Johnson shouldn't have gotten the award: give props to Mike D'Antoni of Phoenix who contibuted to a great Suns season without Amare Stoudamire (a big change in offense and defensive sets)

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Avery Johnson is as good as advertised. Who else his age could get his peers to fall in line behind him and totally buy in to what he coaches? I don't think any other player in the NBA could coach next year at the level that Avery has this year, and get so much respect from their players.

Zac (Vian, OK)

You may think Avery and Mark Cuban are annoying - I think they're in the NBA finals.

Mark:Evansville, IN

Avery has been there as a point guard and floor general, now heis proving why he was the choice for Coach of the year. Pat Riley is an excellent coach, but doesn't have the athletes that Avery has to work with.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

The Mavs are very deep and can throw many different schemes onto the court to slow down the Big Fella. It'll be interesting to see if the Diesel can stay with them for an entire series. 0 for 10 before finally hitting a free throw? That spells f-a-t-i-g-u-e.

Mark:evansville, IN

Bryan from Fayetteville, I couldn't have agreed with you more. Excellent observations!!!

victor alexandria,la

i agree with brian.but one thing10 points ain,t going to be enough to beatmiami in games2 3 4 and 5.

Akaash Mundra (Lagrangeville, NY)

I'd say Avery isn't Top 10, not with all the other great coaches in the NBA.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Avery isn't in the top 15..

The Pulse

  (2:14 PM)

Wow, not even in the top half of NBA coaches? That's tough to defend.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Talent has a lot to do with his success his first year..

Sam (Indianapolis)

Avery Johnson is th ebest coachin the NBA.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Would the other coaches in the NBA put Avery in the Top 10? I would think so.

Zach (Houston, Texas)

Avery is one of the most undertated coaches out there. I have had the chance to meet the guy when he was playing and even then he was a coach on the court. He is surely top 2 or 3

Vinnie (Miami)

Yea right ill give u a perfect example LARRY BROWN. put avery in new york and lets see what happens

Aman (Lagrangeville, NY)

I agree with Patrick (with the talent part). No doubt Johnson's a good coach, but with guys like Phil Jackson, Pat Riley, Larry Brown (who did have a lousy season...) in the league, there's a lot of competition.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Avery is in a franchise where an owner will get him the tools no matter what to win a championship.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

How many coaches could change a teams philosophy in one year and make it work all the way to the Finals?

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

I agree with Zac. You might not like Avery Johnson, but he's in the finals. Live with it.

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

Talent is nothing without a coach to coach them up. Ask Isaiah Thomas

Zac (Vian, OK)

Avery has taught the Mavs DEFENSE! That got them to the Finals.

Aman Mundra (Lagrangeville, NY)

Johnson can't be top 2 or 3; Phil Jackson and Pat Riley and Larry Brown are all better, plus I give props to Gregg Pop. too. Even Flip Sauders is on the Top 5

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Avery is a lot more likeable that Larry Brown, and the current players have more respect for Avery because they saw him get in done on the court as a player, something this generation of players have not seen Larry do.

The Pulse

  (2:19 PM)

Good debate on Avery and the Mavs.

The Pulse

  (2:20 PM)

Any golf fans out there looking forward to the U.S. Open?

The Pulse

  (2:20 PM)

We've got John Hawkins, a senior golf writer, up next to preview the U.S. Open and talk golf.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Look forward to tiger winning it..

Vinnie (Miami)

Don't kill the discussion with golf

Vinnie (Miami)

Tiger is really struggling hope he wins to get out of the slump

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Is it realistic to think Tiger can come back and win his first major after his dad passed? A lot of emotions there.

Greg (Mt. Pleasant, PA)

Tiger will explode and destroy the competition this weekend.

Sam (Indianapolis)

Chris DiMarco is going to win it!

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Buzzkill....golf is good to watch, but not sure about for a chat

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Well if he doesn't Phil Mickleson will win it.. Playing his best golf ever.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

I'd like to see how Tiger comes back from his dad's death. Also, for all you Mickelson lovers, Tiger still has 10 majors, Phil isn't better until he wins some more.

Patrick ((Baltimore))

Chris DiMarco has a better chance of catching a cold.

The Pulse

  (2:25 PM)

All right, John is finishing up on air with the golf discussion, so let's move on.

The Pulse

  (2:25 PM)

And John is picking Phil to win it all.

Dennis (San Diego)

How about the World Cup! Trinidad and Tobago draws with Sweden. What an upset. Most Americans are missing the greatest event on earth. Go USA!

The Pulse

  (2:26 PM)

How about the World Cup? We haven't touched on it yet, and we've got an expert coming up shortly to talk Cup.

The Pulse

  (2:27 PM)

Even if you aren't big soccer fans normally, do you kind of get into the World Cup?

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Dennis, watching the World Cup with ya. Those were some sweet goals by Germany yesterday.

Vinnie (Miami)

USA wont make it out of the group round its a conspiracy that they were put on the toughest group of them all

Dennis (San Diego)

Can Didier Drogba and the Ivory Coast upset Argentina in the next game at 3:00 EST?

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

The World Cup is the world's game on the biggest stage... I can't help but get into it.

Tom (Tampa,FL)

Soccers not in my blood,but its better to watch than hockey.

Kyle (Memphis)

It doesn't hurt to have US ranked so high this year. That got me watching it

The Pulse

  (2:29 PM)

So far we've had a couple of disappointing efforts from European teams in Poland and Sweden. Kind of odd for a Cup on European soil.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

If you can't get into the World Cup, then you are not a Sports Fan; you are just a homer for your local teams.

Darren (Anderson,Ca)

Ide rather watch presseason football over the world cup!

Ben (NJ)

Soccer's such a boring sport to watch....The only game I ever went to ended in a 0-0 tie.

The Pulse

  (2:30 PM)

That's what I don't get. Germany beats Costa Rica 4-2 yesterday. In footbll, that's 28-14. So how is low scoring?

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Poland had a fairly tough draw, but Sweden's draw is inexcuseable.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

World Cup is mildly amusing, just to see all of the nationalism around the world. So I might not change the channel with World Cup highlights the way I do when MLS comes on.

beau (ohio)

no the only time i watch the world cup is when its on sportscenter and even then its hard to watch

cody (boston)

The world cup brings intrest but USA always dissapionts.

The Pulse

  (2:30 PM)

What about last time?

Dennis (San Diego)

Darre, go take your 60 minutes of commercials and your 60 minute game played over 4 hours and I'll watch my 90 minute game with no commercials!

brent (nyc)

i'd get into the world cup but its so boring nothing ever happens and their are 0-0 ties. there should never be ties in a sport

Brad (Memphis)

Sometimes 0-0 draws are still some of the more exciting and even offensive centered games

Kelvin (Los Angeles)

It's a pity that that most Americans can't appreciate the world's most popular sport.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

Let's see here, the U.S. is ranked the 5th in the world and many people aren't picking them to make it out of group E. Am I mistaken or if you're 5th in the world you're should make it out of your first group?

The Pulse

  (2:32 PM)

We're the Gonzaga of international soccer when it comes to people thinking we're over-ranked.

Sam (Indianapolis)

I have never watched the World Cup before this weekend but I have to say it is awesome. THese guys are so talented.

Tom (Tampa,FL)

I don't follow soccer,but i like the the rush you get watching it.

Rob (Erie, PA)

Yes, but a 0-0 game in baseball is considered exciting. I guarantee there's more action in an 0-0 soccer game than an 0-0 baseball game, and I LOVE baseball.

Dennis (San Diego)

Cody, how was 2002 a disappointment when we beat world power Portugal, advanced the the round of 16 where we beat arch rival Mexico 2-0 and then were robbed against Germany in the final 8?

victor alexandria,la

trinadad and tobago0 sweeden o draw.that,s good play right there.

Josh (Cincinnati)

I will watch the World Cup in moderation but I don't think I could sit down and watch an entire game without getting bored

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Jared, if you paid more attention you would know that the #5 ranking is inaccurate and doesn't account for peaking at this time, as well as players returning from injury.

garrett (columbus, ohio)

trinidad goalie from howard university is a feisty dude

Rob (Erie, PA)

The appreciation of soccer in this country will change with time since soccer is the #1 youth sport in the US.

The Pulse

  (2:34 PM)

But unfortunately, it's been No. 1 for quite a long time in terms of youth participation. It hasn't translated to older age groups yet.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

I think there's a perception that America should at least have a chance to be dominant in a sport before the US will watch it. That's not realistic for soccer in the next decade, so that probably turns a lot of fans off.

Bryant (Austin, TX)

Bored? I've watch all the games so far... cant get enough of the WC

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

I dont have a problem with soccer, it's just those 1-0 game that I can't stand.

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

No one in the U.S. cares about the world cup except the players on the U.S. team.

David (Indiana)

There was a lot of action in the trinidad tobago vs. sweden game today that ended in a 0-0 draw

Galen (Boston)

To like soccer you must appreciate each skilled play, not just goals, just like a basketball fan enjoys a great crossover or block, just because the result isn't a point isn't what makes play exciting.

A.K. (Detroit)

how can anyone NOT watch the world cup? The ball is continuously moving, that right thee should be enough to keep your attention.....

Erick (Indianapolis, IN)

US Ranking is a bit of a sham. Rankings just mean they win the games they are suppose to win. If you ask any soccer person they would tell you that U.S. is not one of the top five teams in the world.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I think the US is a little overrated and they are in a very tough grouping with italy and the czechs. I just think they shouldnt be fourth

Tom (Tampa,FL)

I think of Boston College being more like the US team. No name recruits,still solid all around,but know how to get it done.

Dennis (San Diego)

No offense, but where is the respect from the media when ABC networks shuffles USA/Chech Republic to ESPN 2 on Monday....I guess The View is more important.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Excellent point Galen... and Greg, there are millions of soccer fans in the U.S. Just because it isn't shown in your local bar doesn't mean it isn't watched.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I still watch the world cup because i like watching soccer between countries but i could care less about it for the 4 years after it.

Timm (Germany)

I think there are two main reasons why Soccer is not as popular in the U.S. than in the rest of the world. Firstly, perfomance can not always be shown in stats like in Basketball, Baseball or Football. Secondly, I think the people of America would be more interested if their team was one of the best.

Matt (Spokane, WA)

If people didn't think the Sweden Trinidad draw wasn't still entertaining, there's something wrong with you.

The Pulse

  (2:39 PM)

How much will it hurt the sport in this country if the U.S. doesn't advance out of the group stage?

Erick (Indianapolis, IN)

US has some real stars on their team, however, they are going to play with so much pressure because not only do they want to get through to the next round, they also would like to win the group... If they get second in the group, they will most likely be facing Brazil in the second round. I think this added pressure might cause them to press and make some sloppy plays.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

The constant play without commercials and some of the best conditioned athletes in the world. What's not to like?

Bryan (Fayetteville)

Yep Matt. I think misdemeanor tickets should be handed out to shallow sports fans instead of parking tickets....grow up and watch soccer.

Chris (Boston)

The Engalnd - Paraguay match was very slow and probably didn't do much to attract more viewers to the world cup.

Ben (NJ)

I think whether people find it boring or not, if the US goes far they'll start to watch...if the US gets out early, there'll be even less viewers from the country....

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Not advancing out of the group stage is going to blow a major opportunity to increase interest. Even if the US performed very well in 2010, people won't watch after an early exit this year.

Dan (Denver, CO)

I don't think it will hurt at all if we don't advance because a knowledgable fan will know the competition we lost to.... but to some person who isn't interested in the World Cup to begin with, they will just say "see, I told you soccer has no place in the U.S.", and that will be ashame because they don't the competition we faced

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

I am very interested to see how Argentina reacts after the stunning 0-0 between Sweeden and TandT. Any chance the Argentinians are looking past the Ivory Coast?

Marco (montreal, quebec)

It will not hurt the sport at all because really no one pays attention but if they get to a high round then they will get a lot of exposure. They cant go wrong in the tourney even if they lose

The Pulse

  (2:43 PM)

But I think there has been more attention paid to this team, based on what happened four years ago. Just look at the Nike campaign.

rob (Erie, PA)

The same questions was asked back in '98 when we were dead last. The MLS didn't die and we went on to have our best World Cup ever in '02. Soccer will go on if we don't make it out of the group.

Erick (Indianapolis, IN)

For US Soccer fans I don't think a poor showing in the world cup is going to change anyones minds, but for the average American who just is watching because it is the World cup will probably be disappointed and it will take another quaterfinal run to get them back in the fan base.

Sam (Indianapolis)

I want to see a Brazil-USA match after the group play finishes. That would be awesome.

John (Farris)

All of this is beside the point, if we really want to become a nation passionate about soccer, we can't be hoping/waiting for U.S. success on the international level. If we want to become a soccer country, we have to learn to appreciate the beautiful game and how it affects so many people around the world.

The Pulse

  (2:45 PM)

Fair point, we seem to be waiting for it to grow from the top down.

Zach (Boulder, CO)

Wow, good day of soccer thus far. I worry about Messi's youth for Argentina, but I still think they will pull it out. Ivory coast will hit the first goal of the game, but Argentina will win 2-1

Danny (Las Vegas)

I'm hoping Ivory Coast can pull off the upset today. I know there a small team, but I think they can do some damage

The Pulse

  (2:45 PM)

All right, let's finish this off with your World Cup picks. Anyone not picking Brazil?

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

England is my dark horse pick. Getting Wayne Rooney back in time for the round of 16 will be just what the doctor ordered.

rob (Erie, PA)

England is dangerous this time if Brazil stumbles.

Dennis (San Diego)

I like Germany. The home cooking will do for them what it did for France in 98.

Matt (Fresno, CA)

Spain. I think they'll finally put it together.

Dan (Denver, CO)

I like Netherlands to have a shot at upsetting Argentina in group play, and then moving its way to the championship game. They have a shot at beating Brazil.

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

I know Brazil is the favorite. But I see Italy coming out on top. Their forwards are some of the best in the world

Tom (Tampa,FL)

I'll be rooting for the USA,Brazil will win.

ramon (austin)

england wont get past the second round when they face ecuador

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

The Dutch are not the same team we are used to seeing. I don't see them advancing far.

Chris (Boston)

Ghana is my cinderella pick. Look out for Essien!

dennis (denmark)

the italians are nothing but models trying to play football... just look at the hairgel... heh

Ted (Salt Lake City, UT)

It is Spain's turn -- they have a great draw and the talent it win it all (as always), and they will finally get the monkey off their back and win games that they should win.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

The USA is still one of most well-rounded teams in the tournament, and Landon Donovan is one of the smartest players in the world....you have to have a great point guard in the NBA, and you need an excellent midfielder in the World Cup.

Victor (Philadelphia)

No event in the world, of any nature, compares to the world cup--not in magnitude and not in emotion. Either you are one of those who watches the Sweden--Trinidad and Tobago tie and really enjoyed the gritty upset of the islanders (one man down) while Sweden played amazing soccer, or you are not. It's like March Madness, World style.

Dan (Denver, CO)

what are you talking about the Dutch not being what they used to be? This is probably the best team they've had in a while! And England is not a dark horse pick, they are one of the favorites

Matt (Fresno, CA)

This year's dark horse has got to be Serbia and Montenegro. When you give up just one goal in qualifying, that tells you something.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

The betting scandal will finally catch up with the Italians. They won't see much of a result. Too much baggage behind the scenes.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I'm picking Italy to win in the final against Brazil. Italy will have too much offense for a bad defensive team in Brazil and Italy has a good defense. Forza Italia

The Pulse

  (2:51 PM)

Excellent World Cup stuff, plenty of soccer fans online today.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Surprising number of soccer fans out there, even domestically.

Eric (Columbus)

I think we must advance to help soccer in America, however, we dont need to win the group. If we play Brazil well and even lose 1-0 or 2-1, that would show we have arrived no question

The Pulse

  (2:51 PM)

Ok, for anyone who missed it earlier, the interview with Sen. John McCain is on right now, talking about the latest baseball scandal.

The Pulse

  (2:52 PM)

The question here is what can baseball do at this point? Obviously mistakes were made in the past to get us here, but how does it get fixed?

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

Who needs a bunch of druggies -- watch the Beautiful Game!!

rob (Erie, PA)

The MLBPA needs to step up and clean house. Protecting players is one thing, but protecting cheaters is another.

Matt (Fresno, CA)

If there was any kind of legitimate authority, this wouldn't be a problem.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

You can't really fix the past, and history shows us that the threat of punishment doesn't deter negative behavior.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I think the best idea is to just keep playing and let those years of the past stay behind us because u can't just take runs and wins away. Let the scandal go and now we know we are in a steroid free league.

The Pulse

  (2:54 PM)

But that's the problem. The Grimsley story helps show that the game is very much NOT free of performance-enhancing drugs.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

It's a complete mess, and I don't envy them at all. They really have to lock it down as much as possible for the future, but the record book is a major issue since comparing records is such a large part of baseball's allure.

Chris (Boston)

you cant change the past. All we can do is start testing everyone now and threaten the players with stiffer penalties

Zach (Boulder, CO)

Whatever, when did it become right for Congress to start policing professional sports? I hope the judicial system steps in and tell Congress to stop putting professional athletes on trial.

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

The game will never be free of performance-enhancing drugs.

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

I think they should have tests every day like they do at my school. That way, there would be a better clean way to play.

Dave (Tampa, FL)

The Olympics have the right answer. If somebody gets caught, individual and team records and medals are expunged. I don't think you can expunge team records, but you can individual ones. Also, be able to fine players a portion of their paycheck. If they don't pay up, banned for life.

Matt (Ohio)

Barry Bonds has been a good player and who cares if he has taken performance inhanceing drugs in the past hes old and has other thing to worry about. Like the Homerun Record.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

It became the right for Congress to start policing professional sports when they granted professional sports an anti-trust exemption.

rob (Erie, PA)

We'll never be in a steroid free league until testing is stepped up. Everyone knows that it's all legal until you get caught. They need to catch more people and then hang them out to dry.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

I hate the thought that players know they are getting away with taking the hormones and drugs...I would love seeing Congress force them to talk.

brian (jacksonville fl)

here's how to solve the problem, anyone found using performance enhancing drugs is banned from the game from now on. If you want to take something, ask the trainers and make sure it's legal before you take anything.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

My question is if baseball is better off if the Jason Grimsley situation never happened. My opinion on this is no because then the players will continue to cheat without fear of being caught. It's a shame that nobody can play ball without suspect of taking performance-enhancing drugs. People are saying how the game is cleaner when HGH is not being tested for. We've only scratched the surface of the steriod issue.

Darin (St. Louis)

Baseball is a train wreck. If they have the right people's names end up on this list, the only responsible thing MLB could do is shutter the league until they figure out something. Continuing play when most players are dirty would be a farce.

rob (Erie, PA)

Even if it wasn't against the rules to use steroids in the past as far as baseball was concerned, it violated federal laws to purchase and have those roids at all.

Bryan (Fayetteville)

The providers of the steroids and HGH need to be severely punished...hit the problem the the source.

Tim (Miami,FL)

Jason Grimsley is not Barry Bonds. Grimsley has been caught in the past (failed a test for SOMETHING back in 2001 I think), so obviously there is past precedence for him. Bonds has never been formally caught or reprimanded, which is fine because he's never been caught red-handed.

Zach (Boulder, CO)

Which records aren't tainted by something or another? Baseball has a history of cheating more than any other sport. From corked bats to sharpened cleats, the game has been filled with cheaters.

The Pulse

  (3:01 PM)

Ok, got to work in some Stanley Cup chatter, with Barry Melrose coming up shortly. Any puckheads out there?

rob (Erie, PA)

It's sad, but as good as the playoffs have been this year, I haven't watched one minute of them. I'm still jaded by the lockout I think.

Edgar (Sacramento)

hockey season is going on?

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Game 1 was phenomenal, one of the better hockey comebacks I've ever seen.

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

Edmonton has a great shot at winning the cup especially in the new NHL.

The Pulse

  (3:03 PM)

Just perhaps not this year ...

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I really dont like hockey I find it pretty boring and there are not great athletes who play in the NHL.

The Pulse

  (3:04 PM)

Wow, no great athletes? And you're from Montreal?

Matt (Ohio)

The Orliers might have home-ice but the Hurricanes have a 2-0 lead. Orliers are gonna lose

Darin (St. Louis)

Game 1 was really good, but the injury to Roloson was disasterous. It should be a cakewalk from here out. Carolina in 4-5.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

Hockey is so far off the radar screen. The Women's College Softball World Series drew more TV viewers. That has to be an all-time low for a sport that doesn't even register on our collective radar.

The Pulse

  (3:05 PM)

Have you seen the ratings for the WCWS? It beat a LOT of things, not just the Stanley Cup. Softball is a getting a bigger and bigger following from folks fed up with things like the current state of MLB.

rob (Erie, PA)

I can't agree with Marco on this one. There are GREAT athletes in the NHL with some of the best hand-eye coordination you'll find.

brent (nyc)

edmenten is going to be swept cause its the worse thing that could happen for the nhl and so far everything that can go wrong will go wrong

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

Ward has only allowed one goal in the last 83 minutes. If he only allows one goal tonight, he is definitley the MVP.

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

Edmonton will come back and win the cup this year.

Edgar (Sacramento)

I have to say that WCWS games are exciting

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

The Stanley Cup Finals are going on. I never knew. Now thats saying something.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

In fairness to Marco, it's somewhat challenging to imagine a hockey player that could play another sport at a high level. Chris Drury is maybe the only one that came to mind, and he peaked at 11 in baseball.

The Pulse

  (3:07 PM)

It's tough to imagine any athlete really playing another pro sport well, the skills are so specialized by the time you reach that level. Hence guys like Bo and Deion being so noteworthy.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

Quick, name the teams that Edmontonn and Carolina beat to reach the finals. I bet without looking it up, there is no one out there who knows nor cares.

The Pulse

  (3:08 PM)

Geez, people here are going to extremes today. That's the same argument you posted against when we were talking World Cup, Peggy!

Tim Wuthenow, Apex, North Carolina

If Jussi Markkanen has a rocky game tonight, will the Oilers go back with Ty Conklin? I personally thought the Oilers should have gone with Conklin in Game 2, to give him some confidence, but going with Markkanen completely took his confidence away, if he falters then who can they put in the net for either the rest of Game 3 or Game 4, Ray Whitney's dad?

Brian (Grafton, WI)

But you look at a Drew Brees, he's a good tennis player, some pure athletes like Randy Moss could play hoops, at the highest level, other sports' stars could translate better when placed in a different athletic environment.

Ben (Toronto)

As far as two sport atheletes... There are a lot oh hockey/Lacrosse players... Niewendyk was considered the gretzky of Lacrosse before going to hockey full time

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

Right now hockey is in a bad situation where they are playing some of the most exciting hockey ever, but nobody cares. They are marketing the sport terribly. A big star I think could do wonders for the NHL as far as marketing wise but there just doesn't seem to be any huge names out there. I'm waiting on this Crosby kid though, he'll be special one day.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Wasn't Jim Brown the Gretzky of lacrosse?

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

Peggy, CAR beat MON, NJ, BUF. EDM beat DET, SJ, ANA.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

If Sidney Crosby is special and there is no one there to hear it, did it really happen?

The Pulse

  (3:13 PM)

Ok, speaking of sports with loyal but seemingly shrinking fan bases, any boxing fans out there?

The Pulse

  (3:13 PM)

We've got a big fight tonight between Hopkins and Tarver.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

Hell no!! Talk about a useless waste of time, energy and money. Ali was the last of the great boxers and nothing has even come close since his decline.

Mike (Boston)

Tarver will win no doubt

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Tarver, does that guy only do interviews in shades?

The Pulse

  (3:15 PM)

But he does look sharp in them ...

Marco (montreal, quebec)

This is an interesting fight because Tarver has the height advantage while Hopkins has the power advantage. I really see this being a draw and Antonio Tarver will not knock out Bernard Hopkins. Not enough power in his punch.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

Boxing is doing terrible too. They need to have one title for the heavyweight champion of the world not a bunch of different titles.

Edgar (Sacramento)

This may be the end of the line for Hopkins. He needs to stick to promoting with De La Hoya

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

I say that Tarver will win by decision.

Peggy (Dayton, OH)

You guys really care about this fight? It will struggle to reach the audience the spelling bee had!

Marco (montreal, quebec)

Tarver is talking too much trash and he knocked out Roy Jones on a very lucky pucnh when Jones was dominating to that point.

brent (nyc)

tarver is the only bright side in boxing

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

I care about all sports, Peggy.

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

Tarver may not have enough power in his left punch, but his right is how Jones went down

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Is there like an age minimum of 35 in order to box these days?

The Pulse

  (3:19 PM)

Ok, we've got Roger Cossack up next to talk about the legal ramifications of the Grimsley story.

Matt (Ohio)

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

The Pulse

  (3:20 PM)

Easy, Matt.

Matt (Ohio)

im tired of the PED arguments

Seth (Tenafly, NJ)

Oh, remember the good old days? 'Joining us now is ESPN legal analyst Roger Cossack, accompanied once again by Shelley Smith.'

The Pulse

  (3:22 PM)

What's crazy is who here hasn't learned something about the U.S. legal system from the coverage of all these steroid stories?

The Pulse

  (3:22 PM)

It's out annual refresher course in jurisprudence.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Grimsley played alongside 8 players that are now in their 3rd decade of major league baseball. Don't steroids lengthen careers?

The Pulse

  (3:24 PM)

All right, all right, the masses have spoken (or more precisely, not spoken). We'll move on ...

The Pulse

  (3:26 PM)

We've still got some big NFL interviews with Shawne Merriman and DeAngelo Williams ...

The Pulse

  (3:26 PM)

Any NFL fans out there struggling to make it through the offseason without some gridiron?

Marco (montreal, quebec)

Im struggling and even though I practice on a team every weekend I miss coming home from practice and watching it. I cant wait til september.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

For DeAngelo Williams, Conference USA isn't a powerhouse conference, is that going to be a major adjustment going to the pro level?

The Pulse

  (3:28 PM)

Hopefully we'll be able to ask him. The good thing is at least he won't be asked to carry the ball 20-plus times right away.

The Pulse

  (3:29 PM)

We've seen Ray Lewis start to fade a little bit as he gets older, so who is the next face of defense in the NFL? Could it be Merriman?

The Pulse

  (3:29 PM)

Troy Polamalu? Dwight Freeney? Brian Urlacher? Ed Reed? Someone else?

Matt (Ohio)

It's A.J. Hawk i mean come on

Marco (montreal, quebec)

I think Vilma is the next one even though I am a fan of the U. Merriman is inconsistent but his strength is off the scale.

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

I need my fooball. Theres no other sport like it. Im glad mini camps are opening

The Pulse

  (3:31 PM)

Merriman is talking with us during the break between their two-a-days in minicamp.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Ed Reed. No one else matches his work ethic. Plus, he's a good guy off the field, and the NFL would prefer that to Ray Lewis's track record.

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

Merriman will never get faded like Ray Lewis. He will become a better linebacker than Ray Lewis and possibly the best LB in NFL history. He has the ability to get around defenders on a blitz, the best i've seen in the last few years.

Michael, Memphis Tn.

I beleive with all your accomplishments you acheived at U of M you are still under the radar. What will everyone think of you after your rookie year compared to the other top backs in the draft of 2006?

Brian (Grafton, WI)

A.J. Hawk another good option. He brings the Ray Nitschke/Jack Lambert look back to the NFL.

Jeremy (Fredericksburg VA)

Demarcus Ware is definitely the future face of the NFL. Vilma and Merrimans rookie seasons werent as good a Ware's

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

Who here thinks Merriman will win the defensive player of the year award this year?

Marco (montreal, quebec)

Ed Reed and Jon Vilma will be the faces of the NFL after Ray Ray retires

Ephraim R. (Maple Shade, NJ)

Osi Umeniyora. Plays fast, hard, does everything right, and he won't peak for another 2 years.

The Pulse

  (3:35 PM)

All right, we're winding down for this week's Pulse. What topics are left on your minds?

World Cup FREAK (Houston, TX)

Jason Grimsley is a ridiculous story, and completely overshadowing the World Cup, the greatest sporting event in the world

brent (nyc)

merriman is going to be a 1st ballot hall of famer by the time his career is done

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

The NBA Finals. Dallas (my team), will win this year.

Ephraim R. (Maple Shade, NJ)

Ok, I'm jumping in late. Have we talked about how insanely good the Mets are playing, especially with their lineup -matsui, -nady, +milledge and +valentin?

The Pulse

  (3:38 PM)

Looks like they'll be without Matsui for good.

Danny (Las Vegas, NV)

Matsui got traded yester day. You can knock him off that list man.

Ephraim R. (Maple Shade, NJ)

Yea...man, let the Rockies suck on that lemon drop for awhile.

Edgar (Sacramento)

great world cup game going on as we speak. I vory Coast is making it tough for Argentina

Dan (Denver, CO)

Make sure you all watch the U.S. versus Czech Republic in our first game on Monday. It's an important one and should be good to watch!

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

Areana Bowl 20 will be awesome.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

The Miami Hurricanes will win the National Championship without a dominating team in college football

The Pulse

  (3:40 PM)

Won't be too long before we're talking college football on The Pulse.

Marco (montreal, quebec)

Argentina is up 2-0 in the first half how is the Iovry Coast making it hard

Brian (Grafton, WI)

Joe Hamilton possibly getting a ring in the AFL and the NFL title games, that's an interesting subplot.

World Cup FREAK (Houston, TX)

how can we not be talking about the World Cup? I mean, speculating over the next Madden Cover can wait, but we're in the middle of what could be a historic world cupwith ronaldo breaking the all-time scoring record...soon

The Pulse

  (3:42 PM)

Freak, you've got to be here for the whole show! We had a long debate about the World Cup earlier.

Mike (Boston)

I watched my first soccer game on TV and it was actually exciting.

World Cup FREAK (Houston, TX)

Who here thinks Ronaldo will break the all-time scoring record in FIFa world cup history?

The Pulse

  (3:46 PM)

All right, one more guest to come in DeAngelo Williams.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

What's up with these questions? Some kind of bet for goofiest possible?

The Pulse

  (3:46 PM)

The joys of off-day press conferences. Not the most insightful proceedings.

Mike (Boston)

We need some of those passionate fans in Europe who love their futbol over here in the states

The Pulse

  (3:47 PM)

Which of the major sports here in the U.S. has the most passionate fans? NFL probably has the most, but are they the most passionate?

The Pulse

  (3:47 PM)

Or are hockey fans perhaps the closest thing we've got to soccer fans?

Brian (Grafton, WI)

College hoops fans in a photo finish over hockey fans.

Ephraim R. (Maple Shade, NJ)

college football fans actually seem the crazie...err, passionate.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

Nobody rules like Eagles fans..not corny Red Sox fans, not weak Yankees fans, nobody whatsoever...

Mike (Boston)

Hockey fans are the most passionate

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

Hockey fans are the most passionte because the ones that watch have great knowledge of the game.

Wingo (Deptford, NJ)

c'mon Pulse,are you kidding me?!? Hockey fans? Puhleaze, give me a break...everyone (including England fans this morning) acknowledge only Philly rules...this is so lame...

Ephraim R. (Maple Shade, NJ)

Hah, Wingo might be right. Living as a Giants fan in the Philly burbs is dangerous. I don't wear my Eli Manning jersey out from augast-january unless I feel like getting harrassed. Which is at least once a week.

Greg ((Mt. Pleasant, PA))

I think after seeing other countrys at the olympics hockey fans have become more passionate.

Brian (Grafton, WI)

College hoops fans take days off, travel across the country with 3 days notice. Hard to think of a comparable situation like that in other sports.

Jared: (Chandler, AZ):

I think the NFL has the most passionate fans, however I think that it could change. Another glory age for basketball could be coming with young stars like LeBron, Wade, Stoudemire, Dwight Howard and Chris Paul coming into the league.

The Pulse

  (3:52 PM)

All right, that's going to do it for another week of the Pulse chat!

The Pulse

  (3:53 PM)

We'll be here at the same time next week, so talk to you then!