The NFL gave Columbus Browns and Bengal fans a gift.

BrnBen

NOTE: Monday on NNR Samantha Bunten of NBC Sports and I projected a complete 1st round mock draft.

Last year the NFL forgot that Central Ohio fans of the Browns and Bengals have a unique disadvantage. Because both teams are in the AFC, the fans needed to get Sunday Ticket to see more than half of their favorite team’s games. While most people in Columbus believed it was a ploy to sell more subscriptions, the NFL doesn’t really need the money.

The late season network flexibility helped because Fox covered some games that would have been blacked out due to the local CBS affiliate WBNS having to choose one team or the other. There was some flack including a major complaint here on FPS.

The NFL took the Central Ohio issue into account this season with the schedule. Based on my calculations, Browns fans should be able to see 13 of the 16 regular season games. That is both a blessing and a curse. It is a blessing because the fans will be able to see their team. The curse is that the Browns still don’t have a starting quality QB on the roster.

The Bengal fans should … Read more at FryingPanSports

Sports Buffet for 05/04/10

SptsBuf

The Sports Buffet will be a regular feature of FPS.

NFL

UFA S FS Darren Sharper (NO) is reported to have had microfracture knee surgery during the off season according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Sharper was a key part of the Saints D and their playoff run. The typical recovery time for that procedure is 18-24 months. That would also explain why he had such a delay in getting a contract offer. He has signed back with the Saints on a 1 year deal for 1.5M.

The Jones formerly known as “Pacman” is still shopping his services around the league. He went to Detroit last week and visited the Bengals recently. There was no interest by the Lions but the Bengals are at least considering an offer.

The 49ers signed LB Patrick Willis to a new 5 year deal worth 50M with 29M guaranteed.

With the draft of QB Tim Tebow, QB Brady Quinn could be on the move again. The Jags are reported to be interested in obtaining the former Browns 1st round pick.

NBA

There is a very fine line between a veteran team and just an “over the hill” team. Teams can go from one side of … Read more at FryingPanSports