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Former Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson got revenge on the team that let him go in the best possible way. Benson amassed 189 yards rushing and led his new team, the Cincinnati Bengals, to a 45-10 rout over the visiting Bears on Sunday. Carson Palmer threw for five touchdowns with no interceptions in the blowout victory.

The Bengals also made short work of the NFL pointspread, easily covering as +1′ home underdogs. Cincinnati improved to 4-3 against the number while Chicago evened their ATS mark at 3-3.

A happy Benson described his feelings after the win:

“Everybody knew it was going to be an emotional day. Everybody knew. What a wonderful day and a wonderful thing, to go out there and strut your stuff.”

Despite the evidence to the contrary, Benson downplayed the motive of revenge:

“I continue to be as graceful as I can be. I’m not shoving anything in anybody’s face. Like I say, it wasn’t a revenge day for me. I just wanted to take advantage of the opportunities.”

He said his biggest problem was trying to keep his emotions in check and play under control:

“There were a few times where I may have gotten a little too hyped up, a little too antsy. A couple of drives, I found myself having to calm myself down and gather my emotions to stay poised. Once I got past that, we were good to go. Keep it rolling.”

Bengals’ receiver Chad Ochocinco had 10 catches for 118 yards and two touchdowns. He shared his thoughts postgame:

“I don’t understand why it went this way today and why it didn’t go that way last week or the week before that. The offensive line played unbelievable. For Ced to run the way he did today and for us to be able to throw, we could have done what we wanted to do.”

Chicago gave up more points than in any game all season, a fact that left defensive end Alex Brown looking for answers:

“That was pretty embarrassing. It’s embarrassing to come out and play like that. I tip my hat to their whole team. Cedric ran the ball like crazy. They did whatever they wanted to do.”

The Bengals will enjoy a bye week before hosting the Baltimore Ravens on November 8. They’ll then play two games on the road at Pittsburgh and Oakland. Chicago will try to get back on track this Sunday as they host the Cleveland Browns. The Bears are -13′ home favorites with the total set at 40. They’ll host the Arizona Cardinals the following Sunday before heading west for a Thursday night game against the San Francisco 49ers on November 12.

Ross Everett is a widely published freelance writer specializing in casino gambling, travel and sports betting. He has appeared on a number of TV and radio programs offering strategies for successful NFL football betting. He lives in Southern Nevada with three Jack Russell Terriers and a pet llama. He is currently writing a biography of former NFL quarterback Jim McMahon.

Its that time of the year again–Americans are getting ready for football. In a few months NFL teams will be opening training camp and college football teams starting practice. Up north, however, the footballs are already flying as pro football is in full swing up in Canada with the Canadian Football League (CFL).

The CFL is almost as old as the NFL, coming into existence in’30. The league’s Grey Cup championship trophy is even older, having been awarded to the best Canadian professional football team since’09. There have been a number of NFL stars who got their start in the CFL including Doug Flutie, Randall Cunningham and Jeff Garcia.

The CFL is very high level professional football, but there are some significant differences between it and the NFL game:

The most obvious difference is the football itself–the CFL football is longer and fatter than the NFL ball. The CFL still has their goal posts on the goal line, which the NFL moved to the back of the end zone years ago. The field is 10 yards longer and 12 yards wider than the NFL field, and the CFL end zones are 20 yards deep instead of the NFL’s 10 yards.

CFL teams are allowed an extra offensive player (a wide receiver), and on defense they’re allowed an extra defensive back. This means that 12 players can be on the field at one time as opposed to 11 in the NFL. CFL football also differs in that teams only have three downs to gain ten yards, as opposed to four in US football. The phrase “two and out” is as commonplace in CFL football as is “three and out” in the US game.

There’s also a significant difference in the way the game is scored. The first time many US fans see a CFL score update reflecting a 1-0 game they’re usually left scratching their head in confusion. CFL teams are able to score a single point, known as a “single” for a kick that lands in the end zone such as a punt or missed field goal.

Of all the rule differences between the NFL and CFL the one that has the most significance on the game isnt enforced on the field; its enforced in the GMs office. Canadians are big on laws and rules to protect their national identity–thats why their TV and radio stations are required to devote a certain percentage of their airplay to Canadian content. That has led to a number of Canadian-only media stars both good (The Tragically Hip, Sloan) and bad (Avril Lavigne, early 90s white rapper Snow). The CFL has a similar rule which requires that’ of the 40 players on a roster must be Canadian born. This keeps the CFL from becoming a de facto NFL developmental league, and helps maintain its unique identity.

Despite the rule differences that suggest a higher scoring, more wide open style of play than in the NFL it really doesn’t work out that way. Most games end up with a final score in the 40′s and have a similar pace to their NFL counterparts. There may be a few individual rule differences, but a strong rushing game and defense are tickets to success in the CFL as in the NFL.

There’s also more parity in the CFL than even the NFL, which is famous for the competitive equality of their teams. The reason is fairly simple–football at the high school and college level in Canada simply isn’t as competitive as in the US. That means the mandated ratio of native players also serves to facilitate parity within the CFL.

The CFL isn’t in a financial position to draw the top level US players away from the NFL or, in most cases, even a NFL practice or developmental squad. While some US players are uniquely suited to the CFL style of play, most of the US players that end up there are of a similar talent level as to that seen in Arena Football.

Despite the differences between the CFL and American football, at the end of the day its still high level, professional football. Once you understand the unique aspects of the CFL, it’ll become second nature much as NFL viewers quickly assimilate rule changes there.

Before the Internet became ubiquitous, it wasn’t easy for an American fan to keep up with the CFL. While they still don’t receive coverage on ESPN, the Internet affords access to the sports media of every CFL city along with the national Canadian sports media at sites like Slam! Sports. The CFL’s official site is also a great source of news, stats and information on Canadian football.

Ross Everett is a widely published freelance writer and respected authority on sports betting odds comparison. He writing has appeared on a variety of sports sites including sports news and betting odds portal sites. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and an emu. He is currently working on an autobiography of former interior secretary James Watt.

Smoky Mountains is a phenomenal destination to visit any time of year and offers best stunning views when covered by beloved snow during the winter months. It is simply a gorgeous place to see, while also offering tons of wintertime adventure. If you are the open-air type, make plans to go skiing and hiking in the Smoky mountain this winter. It just does not get much better than this!

Standard Skiing at Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg has virtually eight ski trails with two known quad and one double chairlift. All this lifts can carry over 5,500 people per hour to assure you spend the majority of your time skiing instead of waiting in line or riding to the peak. If you are a beginner, then you are in luck. Ober Gatlinburg has two beginner runs. You have Cub Way, which is a 1,800-foot trail with a vertical drop of 13 feet. There is also Ski School where instructors will have you speeding down the slopes in no time.

For the veteran skier, you just want to head up the mountain and try some of the other trails. Within range, are four intermediate slopes including the Castle Run at 1,100 feet with a 163-foot drop, to Ober Chute at 4,400 feet and a vertical drop of 556 feet. If you feel extra brave, then try the advanced slopes. You have the Grizzly that delivers a thrilling 3,800-foot run with a drop of 556 feet. And remember to inspect the Mogul Ridge. It has 300 feet of moguls that will emphatically give you a work out.

Hiking the Smoky mountains in Style

If you love walking, there are numerous hiking trails made to suit any age or ability. The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a paved 3,000-foot loop made specifically for visitors with handicaps. It is also a common attraction for families with older members or those with little ones in strollers. You can simply enjoy the beauty of the mountains whether you walk or roll.

If you are a beginner hiker, just try Laurel Falls Trail. At two and one half miles, it is the most popular waterfall trail in the park. Apart from winding your way through primarily virgin forest, you also get the added benefit of taking in the falls up close and personal. The beauty of your surroundings will make the experience all the more unforgettable.

If you are in need of something moderate, you might choose Hen Wallow Falls Trail. It is four miles long and makes a great, short day hike. You also have the Ramsay Cascades Trail that can put you to the test. This eight-mile trail takes you to the parks highest waterfall. Not only will you enjoy the breathtaking scenery, but you will most likely see some entertaining wildlife as well. Be ready to find White tail deer, which are particularly plentiful.

True Fire Tips For Hikers

There are several factors to remember when hiking during winter. Foremost, dress in layers. This will help gaurd against hypothermia. Secondly, be sure to drink plenty of water before starting any trail. Also check the length of the trail before starting out, because the longer your hike, the more water you should pack in order to keep hydrated. In Conclusion, make sure you have sound hiking boots. Trails are known to be slippery from snow, ice or rain. You want a hiking boot that fits well and gives you the grip you need.

The Smoky Mountains have such beautiful views and natural beauty that will leave you happy, in shape and gratified for being outdoors – even in wintertime. Design your wintertime getaway today by visiting some of the online resources here, so you can take advantage of all the Smoky mountains have to offer.

Learn more about wilderness skills. Stop by Raywinsome’s site where you can find out all about best hiking boots and what it can do for you.

Traveling is probably one of the most fantastic and exhilarating activities that you can do. The entire world is practically presented before you, just waiting to be explored. And what’s even greater, no two places are exactly the same. It’s a whole new experience with each destination. However, traveling can also be problematic, what with the planning you have to do before you go. It is, therefore, of grave importance that you pick the most proper travel bags before you go. You cannot take your whole house with you, after all. And all your comforts have to be packed into a suitcase. It is only right that this suitcase be the best for you.

So, to help you choose, be sure to consider these various factors:

Material

The travel bag’s material is of prime importance because this is what the bag’s strength will be based on. Bags with metal frames may be the most durable of all, but they are also rather heavy. They will cost you some when you have them weighed at the airport and they will also be much heavier to carry around. There are materials today that are light and yet sturdy, so be sure to pick these. The bag’s cloth type is also vital. Be sure that the cloth does not tear quickly. If possible, find a bag that is water resistant, as you don’t want your belongings wet should you find yourself under the rain.

Features

You must also consider the bag’s features. If you often go on long vacations, then it would be best for you to buy big bags with rollers so that you can accommodate more things and also find it easier to go from place to place. If you are only going for a short trip or if you want to travel light, however, then a shoulder bag may be the better choice. Choose one with many pockets so that you can organize your things properly. Backpacks are also good, but they’re mostly for informal trips. You surely can’t use a backpack when you’re on a business trip. Another characteristic that you should watch out for is the expandability of the bag. Some bags have hidden zippers that can be opened for extra space so that you can accommodate more items. These bags are very practical, especially if your travel plans differ from time to time.

Mrs. Karen D. discuss travel bags on her website. Take a look if you want to learn more about different types of camping.

Renato Babalu Sobral defeated Bobby Southworth by TKO to become Strikeforce light heavyweight champion in the co-main event of the promotions ‘Destruction’ card on Friday night. Despite leaving with the belt around his waist, it wasn’t a highlight reel worthy finish.

A -350 wagering favorite despite his challenger status, Sobral was expected to use his world class Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skills and vast experience against superior competition to dominate the tough but limited Southworth. It didnt happen that way, as Southworth easily got the better of things in the first round. Southworth looks to use his strength and conditioning to control his opponent en route to a decision victory. While the result makes him something of a MMA equivalent to boxing’s John Ruiz, it does afford him the best chance of victory.

The first round displayed Southworth’s style in microcosm, with much of the frame spent pushing Babalu up against the cage or on the ground inside his guard not really doing much. Sobral did get a clinch against the cage wall and rocked Southworth with a hard elbow strike that not only busted his nose but opened a huge cut over his right eye.

Upon seeing the gusher of blood Referee John McCarthy brought the ringside physician over to take a look. As Southworth’s corner futilely worked on the gaping wound during the break the doctor once again took a look and better realizing the severity and placement of the cut recommended to McCarthy that the fight be stopped. The veteran official complied, awarding Sobral the TKO victory and the championship belt.

The other half of the co-main event was decided in much more decisive fashion as Scott Smith knocked out well traveled veteran Terry Martin in a mere :24 seconds. Martin didn’t adequately close the distance against a fighter dubbed ‘Hands of Steel’ and was caught with a perfectly placed punch that knocked him out cold.

In the semifinal event, Duane ‘Bang’ Ludwig defeated Yves Edwards by unanimous decision in a very closely contested bout. Edwards was originally slated to face lightweight champion Josh Thomson until a toe injury necessitated his withdrawal. Ludwig took the fight on two weeks notice, and after a takedown clinic by Edwards in the first began to control the fight with his superior standup skills. Edwards’ superiority on the ground in the first two frames wasnt enough to sway the judges who obviously favored Ludwig’s more effective striking.

Earlier in the evening, Kim Couture made short work of overmatched Lina Kvokov as she TKOd her foe in 1:44 of the first round. Couture, the wife of UFC legend Randy Couture, gained even more notoriety for the courage she displayed in her professional debut last June. She had a much easier time here”despite the fact that both fighters entered with 0-1 records Couture was significantly more polished as she put Kvokov on the defensive from the outset with her sharp punching combinations. She recovered momentarily and survived the initial onslaught. The reprieve was only temporary, however, as Couture launched another barrage of punches prompting the referee to step in and wave off the non-competitive affair.

Ross Everett is a freelance writer who has written on sports betting and how to successfully bet on NFL football. He has appeared on TV and radio talking about boxing, cricket and NFL pointspreads. He lives in Las Vegas with three Jack Russell Terriers and a lynx.