The Stir By CafeMom: Sports

Jose Canseco Tweets About Being Accused of Sexual Assault -- and He Includes Accuser's Name

Wed, 22 May 2013 20:15:37 EDT

Post by Nicole Fabian-Weber

Well, this is ... weird. Jose Canesco took to his Twitter page recently to say that he's being accused of rape. The former MLB star, who has a strange Twitter account to begin with, initially named the accuser on the social media site, but then deleted the tweets.

Canseco's first tweet read: "Breaking news this is a first folks las vegas police was just at my house i have been charged with rape by a [victim's name] from las vegas." Shortly thereafter, Canseco tweeted again, saying: "All media welcome to this drama filled event. Did I rape [victim's name] or is she lieing. Stay tuned to another day in the life of jose canseco".

Now. Before we get into the specifics of what's going on here, can we all just take a moment to agree on the fact that running to Twitter after cops show up at your house and accuse you of rape is, well, super f*cking weird. Who does that?

No arrest was made and no charges were immediately filed against the 48-year-old former Oakland A's star, but according to law enforcement, Canseco has been named a "person of interest" in an alleged sexual assault. And TMZ is saying that the alleged event took place on May 10, and the accuser "appears to be a fitness instructor who lives in Vegas".

Canseco wound up taking down his (insane) initial tweets, but continued to tweet throughout the day, wrapping things up with a tweet about how he was getting on a flight to Dallas to play with the Fort Worth Cats. "Come out and have some fun," he tweeted. Business as usual for Jose, apparently.

Now. We obviously don't know exactly what happened the night this incident allegedly went down, or if Canseco had any involvement whatsoever. But it was a really (really) bad move on Jose's part, tweeting about what was going on. Not sure if he was trying the whole "beat the media to the punch" thing, or if, I don't know, he thought he was being amusing. But this was dumb. And not just naming the accuser part (though that was extra dumb!), the whole thing. You don't just flippantly write on your Twitter that you're being accused of rape -- and you don't act flippantly about being accused of rape period.

If Jose didn't commit this heinous crime, great. He should totally get to share his side of the story. But if he's trying to get the public on his side via his candor and "saying what he thinks" (his Twitter tag line) as it happens, he's nuts. I don't think he's going to rack up a huge fan base this way.

What do you think of this?

Image via Michael Buckner/Getty

Wife Douses Husband With Beer in Ballpark Spat That Will Crack You Up (VIDEO)

Mon, 20 May 2013 14:43:00 EDT

Post by Jeanne Sager

I love people watching. I can do it anywhere. In the mall. At the park. But I have to admit, some of the best people watching moments come right in my house -- while I'm watching a baseball game. And the wife who doused her husband with her beer in the middle of the Chicago Cubs vs. New York Mets game this weekend didn't disappoint.

Hubby saw Cubs pitcher Travis Wood get a hold of a ball and send it barrelling at the bleachers -- right where he was sitting with his beloved. So he jumps up -- probably to snag the thing but also to save his wife's hide -- and ends up knocking his wife's beer all over her in the process. So what did she do? What do you THINK she did? Just watch:

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Hahaha! I'm not sure what I loved most. Her automatic, "Hey Buddy, nobody spills my beer and gets away with it" move or their easy going ribbing when the MLB network caught up with them and told them just how viral their little spat had gone.

Sometimes you see things going on in the background at a game, and you have to hit the rewind (thank you TV on Demand!) because you just can't believe you saw it. But you don't always get the back story on it.

When the moment FIRST caught viewers' attention, we didn't yet know why Ellen pitched her brew at her hubs, or that he'd be so tickled by the whole thing. I'm glad the folks at MLB tracked them down to get the whole story -- because their good nature is what really makes this crazy story work!

By the way, the Mets won. Of course.

What's been your favorite fan moment while watching a game?

Image via a loves dc/Flickr

Hockey Fan’s ‘Toronto Stronger’ Sign Gets Big Reaction ... And Not Just From Boston (PHOTO)

Tue, 07 May 2013 16:46:00 EDT

Post by Jill Baughman

I get how some sports fans take their love for their team to extremes, I really do. But there comes a point when you cross the line from loyalty and devotion to being a classless idiot. A fan at the Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Boston Bruins NHL playoff hockey game last night proved this by holding up a sign that read, "Toronto Stronger" with a blue ribbon.

I mean, WTF?! Everyone is well aware of what Boston has gone through this past April with the horrific Boston Marathon bombings that forever tainted a day that was supposed to be a celebration of pride, patriotism, and athleticism. The phrase "Boston Strong" was coined to help the city get through such a harrowing, difficult time. But then this dumbass fan had to make and hold up this sign ... I guess just to prove that dumbass people like this actually exist.

For anyone with a conscience and, you know, feelings, this was unimaginably tasteless and crass. What happened in Boston went way beyond sports and team loyalty and should never be mocked. Of course, Twitter had some very appropriate responses -- and these weren't even the worst (had to keep the language somewhat safe for work!):

1. "Really? A 'Toronto Stronger' sign now too? I understand competition/trash talking but both sides are taking it WAYY too far" -- @ssabbriiii

2. "Hey a88 hole who made that 'toronto stronger' sign, you're f**king disgrace to Canada ! #bostonstrong <3" -- @hockeyxox

3. "On behalf of Toronto I'd like to apologize for the moron with the 'Toronto stronger' sign. #bostonstrong #leafs #nhl #bruins" -- @ @hockeygurupitka

4. "You know you made a sign in really poor taste when other #Leafs fans boo you. #torontostronger #gobruins" -- @NGMPearce

5. "Wish we could ignore the fan with the 'Toronto Stronger' sign. It should have said 'I'm stupider.'" -- @cotsonika

6. "#TorontoStronger by far one of the most tasteless things that I have seen. #leafsfans #shameonyou" -- @Anonynewfie

7. "I wonder if the 'Toronto Stronger' guy has twitter and is reading about himself being a huge doucher? #Leafs #Bruins" -- @HankBart91

8. "I didn't much care who won Tor/Bos series until that Toronto Stronger thing. Now it's Bruins all the way (and I HATE the Bruins) #GoHabsGo" -- @barb_hill

9. "Toronto Stronger? Way to be classy about that loss Toronto. While you're at it, take back Bieber too." -- @hunter_newsome

10. "One thing I love about my town? The only people who hate the 'Toronto Stronger' idiot more than Bruins fans are Leafs fans." -- @sirilyan

11. I want to go just so I can hold up a sign 'Toronto Stronger guy is an idiot' #timandsidleafs" -- @davidpst1

12. "Read a thread of people making excuses for Toronto Stronger sign, as if it wasn't related to the tragedy or ppl are too sensitive. Wake up." -- @scottcwheeler

13. "I'm DISGUSTED with the ONE sign by a #Leafs fan last night, saying #TorontoStronger I'm sorry, but that's NOT right imo #disrespectful!!!!!!!!" -- @GOLEAFSGO9317

14. "Morning guys really #torontostronger was in bad taste and classless we are a better city then that act like it #smh" @TAYSTEVENS

15. "Okay, the whole 'Toronto Stronger' sign is extremely rude. 'Boston Strong' was created because of terrorism, not for a stupid sports slogan." -- @WhyYa_Hayden

What do you think of this sign?

Image via NHL.com

NBA’s Jason Collins Is First Active Pro Athlete to Come Out

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:30:00 EDT

Post by Ericka Sóuter

It may not have been his intention, but NBA player Jason Collins has made history this week. Featured in a new Sports Illustrated cover story, Collins said, "I'm a 34-year-old NBA center. I'm black. And I'm gay." It's a simple statement, but an extremely ground-breaking one. The Washington Wizards star is the first professional athlete to come out while still playing the game.

Society is certainly more accepting of gay people than it was even a decade ago. It's wonderful that we can have hit television shows centered around gay parents and that some states are finally granting them the same rights as heterosexual couples when it comes to marriage and insurance coverage. Even the military is mildly more welcoming. Though one area seems to have remained staunchly straight -- pro sports.

Our teams have long been a bastion of uber-masculine, testosterone-fueled heterosexuality. And I imagine it's an incredibly intimidating environment for anyone who is slightly different in any way. Collins has been in the league for 13 years and just became comfortable enough to be open about who he is. He didn't even come out to his twin brother, also in the NBA, until last year. Now, with everything finally in the open, he feels free to really focus on his game.

It's crazy to think that Collins has made history just by speaking the truth, his truth. The definition of “hero” can take on many shapes, but they don’t all have to be over-the-top, life-saving gestures. This simple move will help more young people than any superhero ever would. It’s beyond brave and something no other gay athlete felt they could do before, even though several have come out after retirement. Who knows? This could go a long way in changing attitudes among other players as well.

Do you think Jason Collins' announcement was brave?

Image via Sports Illustrated

‘National Anthem’ Belted Out by Entire Boston Hockey Stadium in Most Moving Tribute Yet (VIDEO)

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:55:00 EDT

Post by Jill Baughman

Sometimes it's quite easy to dismiss the world of professional sports as nothing but psychotic, aggressive, delusional fans cheering on spoiled, multimillionaire athletes who lack any kind of class or moral compass -- but you have to admit, at the same time, sports can unite and inspire us unlike anything else. Just take a look at what happened during the National Anthem at the Boston Bruins vs. Buffalo Sabers game last night, the first professional sports event Boston hosted since the devastating and tragic Boston Marathon bombings.

Blue and yellow ribbons were projected onto the ice at TD Garden before the game while Rene Rancourt appeared and began singing the National Anthem. Fans in attendance started singing along, and eventually their voices took over to the point that Rancourt deemed it appropriate to lower his microphone. What happened next is something you won't soon forget.

Check it out:

Here's another angle since you know you want to see it:

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

As a YouTube commenter said, hopefully this is proof that the acts of terrorism have the exact opposite effect than was intended. (And how absolutely amazing was it of Rancourt to recognize this moment, turn off his microphone, and step away from the spotlight?)

This also goes to show that fans aren't ignorant to the fact that there are far more important things going on right now than even the most heated and storied of sports rivalries (i.e., the Yankees and Red Sox), and they're willing to put aside their differences and come together when it matters most.

Being from a sports-loving city like Pittsburgh, I'm well aware how the camaraderie among fans and fervent love and loyalty for our team can help us escape from the increasingly crazy and violent real world for a precious few hours. And as we all saw at the Boston Marathon, with athletes enduring one of the most difficult physical feats in existence, we've heard stories in the aftermath of runners who won't ever stop running, who will run in Boston next year. The sport is a part of who they are, and as they and Boston fans proved last night, this far transcends the shocking, heartbreaking, mind-blowing events that took place last Monday.

Boston, stay strong!

What did you think of the fans singing along to the National Anthem?

Image via NHL

NY Yankees Singing 'Sweet Caroline' for Boston Makes Us Cry (VIDEO)

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 12:55:00 EDT

Post by Sasha Brown-Worsham

The rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees may be as old as baseball itself. New York Yankees fans tend to hate the Neil Diamond song "Sweet Caroline" because of its association with all things Red Sox. But not last night. In an amazing show of solidarity, the rival team, the team I grew up calling the "Evil Empire," played that song during the game and the result is moving.

As someone who has lived close to 20 years in Boston, I have no idea how it got started, but I know it was there when I arrived and seemed to be showing no signs of slowing when I left. It's an old rivalry. Time-honored and very real (just try wearing a Yankees cap at Fenway if you don't believe me). But last night, they set it all aside. See below:

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

Maybe you have to be from Boston or New York to really get it. Maybe you have to have walked the streets and heard the taunts and lived through the curse and watched them defeat us crushingly in 2003 to really get what it means. But maybe you don't.

Sometimes we just need to set aside our shallow things, our sports rivalries and politics, and just hold hands. That's what this is. A show of solidarity. A moment where New York says to Boston: We know. We have been there. You will recover. It gives me the chills.

Even Diamond himself was moved, tweeting:

Thank you NY Yankees for playing 'Sweet Caroline' for the people of Boston. You scored a home run in my heart. With respect, Neil #OneBoston

It was one of the most emotional moments since the bombings. Setting sports aside in the name of solidarity. It's beautiful.

Did you find this moving?

Image via YouTube

Murder Suspect Oscar Pistorius’ ‘Drinking and Flirting’ in Public Sickens Witnesses

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EDT

Post by Adriana Velez

Oh Oscar. Whatever you believe really happened in that Pretoria mansion on Valentine's Day, this is a shocker. Witnesses say murder suspect Oscar Pistorius was partying with friends at a trendy bar recently. The Olympic athlete was supposedly seen throwing back shots unfortunately known as "shooters." One witness says he even patted a friend's girlfriend on the bottom: "He was greeting a couple and then gave the woman a pat on her backside. It was so inappropriate."

"Inappropriate" doesn't even begin to describe it! Reportedly, the room got suddenly quiet when Pistorius and his entourage entered Kitchen Bar, a restaurant in South Africa. Pistorius settled into a private dining area. It was his first public outing since the shooting death of fiance, Reeva Steenkamp. "He was drinking shooters and he was flirtatious. He didn't seem like someone [who had] lost the love of his life," a woman at the restaurant later said. And that's pretty much what bothers most of us.

I don't know if Oscar is guilty of premeditated of murder or not. Regardless, the love of his life died tragically young just a few short months ago. It looks horribly insensitive to go out for drinks with friends so soon afterward.

I can see how such an ordeal would drive you to drink. If Pistorius really is innocent of the charges, you could hardly blame him for wanting to unwind with friends. But at home! Not in public. For crying out loud, didn't he think about how this would make him look?

Pistorius "strenuously and vigorously denies any inappropriate behaviour towards any people or women present, or 'partying it up' with shooters," according to a family spokesperson. Somehow, getting that message out through an intermediary instead of in person makes things even worse. No one needs to see Pistorius weeping in public at the accusation that he's partying on his girlfriend's grave. But it does conjure up the image of Pistorius waving his hand at an assistant with the instructions to "take care of that." Needless to say, Oscar's family is now advising him to just stay out of the public eye for now. He should listen to them.

Do you believe Pistorius was callously partying, or do you think witnesses were exaggerating?

Man Falsely Accused of Rape Gets Dream Chance at NFL Contract

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 11:33:00 EDT

Post by Janelle Harris

What a difference a year makes. In 2012, Brian Banks was fighting for his freedom. In 2013, he’s getting a second shot at his dream of playing in the NFL. It’s the ultimate Cinderfella story, and football fan or not, you can’t help but be happy for the guy.

When he was 16, he was a junior in high school with a verbal deal to play for Southern Cal, his college plans all but solidified, when one of his classmates claimed that he raped her. That sent him to prison for five years. Five long, unjustifiable years. Because Banks was innocent.

His accuser recanted her claim and offered to help Banks clear his name. In May 2012, his conviction was overturned by a California court and his record was cleared. Justice righted that tremendous wrong, and that would’ve been reason enough to celebrate. (More on that levying-life-changing-false-accusations nonsense later.)

Yesterday Banks, now 27, signed with the Atlanta Falcons, living out a dream he’d let go a long time ago as part of his way to survive that ordeal. "In order for me to exit prison with a sane mind and be able to just function as a person I had to let go of certain dreams and goals I once held in life, football being one of them," he said. "I can't believe this is happening. It's surreal."

The 6-foot-2, 250-pound inspiration will get an opportunity to win a spot on the team as inside linebacker. The Falcons are the first NFL team to sign him, but he’s worked out with a few other teams, among them the Seahawks and the Chargers. He wasn’t handed this chance to be on the team—he worked hard for it. He’ll start offseason workouts with the team on April 22.

"It's almost impossible to explain, the feeling of not having freedom, to be stripped away of your freedom, of your dignity, the respect you once had," he said. "To lose it all and watch the world pass you by as you sit inside a prison cell, knowing you shouldn't be there, knowing you're there because of another person's lies, to lose it all and then get it all back, it's a very humbling, spiritual feeling that you just don't want to take anything for granted.”

So I now have a new favorite player to root for and cheer on, however his season turns out. But this is also a super unfortunate example of how women who blow the whistle on fake rape not only make it that much more difficult to get attention and resources directed to real cases, but rob innocent men of their rights, too. That he can be this gracious about it is impressive. All I can say is… ugh.

Does a heartwarming personal story make you more likely to cheer for a team or a player?

Image via Georgia National Guard/Flickr

Magic Johnson's Reaction to Son's Coming Out Might Shock You (VIDEO)

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 18:06:00 EDT

Post by Jacqueline Burt

In a world where, unfortunately, hateful groups like the Westboro Baptist Church still exist and kids are routinely bullied for being different, it's refreshing -- inspiring! -- to hear about parents who support and love their children for exactly who they are ... especially when one of those parents happens to be Lakers legend Magic Johnson. Johnson's 20-year-old son Earvin Johnson III, otherwise known as EJ, recently strolled down the Sunset Strip holding his boyfriend's hand -- looking pretty dang happy, I might add. And Magic Johnson couldn't be happier for him: "Cookie and I love EJ and support him in every way ... We're very proud of him."

Well, no wonder EJ looks happy! And he sounds equally proud of his dad.

As a paparazzo peppered him with questions about his dad's team, the Los Angeles Dodgers, EJ responded with remarkable grace (even calling the paparazzo "sir"), betraying not the slightest hint of annoyance. "I'm sorry I don't have any inside information for you, sir," he said. "I'm just hoping and praying like everybody else."

It can't be easy to be the son of a living sports legend -- can you imagine all the comments growing up from (well-meaning, but still) people? Hey son, bet you're just like the old man on the court! Do you want to be a pro basketball player when you grow up like your father?

But here he is at 20 years old, seemingly confident and comfortable with his identity (which is quite an accomplishment for anybody at 20 years old). Magic Johnson must've done something right -- and I hope other parents in testosterone-heavy careers can follow his lead.

Do you think more famous parents should publicly support their gay children?

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Image via TMZ

Basketball Player’s Gruesome Injury Brings Teammates to Tears ... And Then They Win for Him (VIDEO)

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 16:44:00 EDT

Post by Adriana Velez

Did you see what happened to college basketball player Kevin Ware? I hope you didn't -- it's pretty gruesome. He was playing for Louisville in the Midwestern Regional final against Duke when he made a hard landing on his feet and broke his leg in two different places. But he didn't just break his leg -- his fractured right tibia broke clear through his skin. Oh noes, when we see bones! It just hurts to watch.

Even his teammates couldn't take it. In the video (which maybe you don't want to watch), you see them all just curl up into fetal position when they see what happened to Ware. Some of them burst into tears. It's exactly how you would want your friends to react to an accident like that. But Ware found the strength to rally them. Horrific injury and all, he was still yelling from the sidelines, "Win the game, win the game!"

Oh my God, the heart and the sportsmanship in this game! Teammate Chane Behanan says, “He was laying down, crying and saying: ‘Win it for me, y’all. I’m good. I’m going to get surgery and be back at it like I never left.’” OF COURSE Ware's teammates pulled it together and won the game for him. And Ware should recover well enough to play again. Apparently football player Michael Bush suffered the same kind of injury in college. He made a full recovery and joined the NFL two years later.

I watched the video of Kevin's injury and it reminded me of my younger brother. He broke his leg during football practice. I happened to show up on the field with dinner from our mom just as he was laid out on the ground, bone protruding from his skin. I was so dumbfounded at what I saw that I actually stood over him and said, "Hey, um, I brought you dinner?" He wasn't hungry.

Anyway, I'm just impressed with Louisville's team spirit. It matters that it hurt the other players to see their friend so terribly hurt -- and it matters that they pulled it together and won the game anyway. It's inspiring.

WARNING: Disturbing images -- don't watch if you're squeamish.

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

Have you ever watched someone suffer a horrible injury like Kevin Ware's?

Image via NBAHighlightsOnly/YouTube

NFL Star Regrets Hitting His Mom and Attends Domestic Violence Rally to Prove It

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 12:15:00 EDT

Post by Jacqueline Burt

I think it's safe to say that not too many people were expecting Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant to show up at a "Men Against Abuse" rally held over the weekend, considering his arrest last July on charges of allegedly hitting his mother, Angie Bryant, and pulling her hair. But not only did Bryant attend the event alongside Emmitt Smith, Roger Staubach, and Brandon Carr, he actually gave an impromptu speech:

"I made a mistake ... I just want everybody to know, it's not good to hit women and I challenge every man out here to X all domestic violence of your life."

A pretty brave move, I'd say, to both admit and apologize for his actions. In fact, Bryant's humility and willingness to admit his wrongdoing makes me think he's deserving of a second chance, especially considering his rough history.

Angie Bryant was just 14 years old when she gave birth to Dez, and, as one might imagine, his early and adolescent years were spent "jumping from home to home," his father around only occasionally. Of course none of this can be taken as an excuse for domestic violence, but it doesn't surprise me that Bryant and his mother would have some tension between them. Still, Dez insists they have a "great relationship," adding, "I love my mom. My mom loves me."

I believe him. Bryant really seems to have changed his ways since the arrest; the charges will be dropped as long as he attends anger management counseling and is not charged with any other crimes for a year.

Here's hoping the Bryant stays on the straight and narrow.

Do you think Dez Bryant really is done with domestic violence?

Image via AJ Guell/Flickr

Lindsey Vonn Joked About Tiger Woods’ ‘Sex Problem’ and Now They’re Dating

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EDT

Post by Jill Baughman

Now that Lindsey Vonn and Tiger Woods have come out to announce that they're an "official" couple, people have a lot to say about what's going on with these two. Can a man who was such a serial cheater ever really change? It's also hard to believe a sports star with the size of an ego like Tiger, who once banged porn stars and asked them about "golden showers", would be able to find someone who's okay with that kind of past. Because apparently even Lindsey thought the whole "sex problem" thing was hilarious three years ago.

When Tiger hosted a news conference announcing his transgressions, Lindsey was enjoying fame as an Olympic skier. Someone told her that Woods gave friends hugs after the statement, and she joked, "They're like, 'Yeah, you're awesome, you go have that sex.'"

Guess it's not so funny now that you're dating him, is it? Awk-ward.

She then went on and described a skit she'd perform if she were asked to host Saturday Night Live: With her at the podium, saying, "There's something you don't know about me .... Tiger, you're like my idol, and I too have a sex problem .... That would be freaking funny."

Yeah, it really wouldn't be all that funny, and I for one am glad Lindsey never got a shot at SNL (though with her dating Tiger, they may invite her back now).

You could say that this was over three years ago and maybe Tiger has learned his lesson and he really does want to settle down and that he and Lindsey have had frank discussions about his past and he did get tested for STDs multiple times -- but it's easy to be skeptical. The phrases "once a cheater, always a cheater" and "once a liar, always a liar" exist for a reason. All of us have probably dated liars and cheaters before, and it's really, really tough for them to change ... especially when you're super-rich and famous and the world is essentially your oyster.

And how could we ever forget those insane text messages?? Gross. Time for a shower.

Of course, people do deserve second chances, but seeing how lightly Lindsey took Tiger's confession and how willing she was to poke fun of it, it's hard to picture what he was able to say or do to change her mind and make her take him this seriously. And let's face it, three years isn't exactly that long of a time period for a guy like that to truly change his stripes (ha).

Then again, these are celebs we're talking about, maybe she too has a "sex problem" like she "confessed" and they're actually a super-compatible match. Weirder things have happened?

Think Lindsey's joking comments about Tiger's "sex problem" is relevant to their relationship now? Could you date him knowing about his past?

Image via Molly A. Burgess/Wikimedia

Tiger Woods and Lindsey Vonn Announce Their Love With Cheesy Portraits (VIDEO)

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 16:37:11 EDT

Post by Emily Abbate

For months now we've all been speculating about Tiger Woods and his relationship with skier Lindsey Vonn. We watched the two of them jet off to Antigua together. We watched Lindsey use his private jet. We wondered how she could be OK with his cheating past and questioned why she thought him and ex Elin Nordegren being buddies was a good idea. Well lucky for us, the "ARE THEY TOGETHER OR NOT!?" question has FINALLY been answered: Yes, they are. The athletic duo has officially announced they are dating.

Now generally this kinda thing comes out on Twitter or in a sly comment to some reporter somewhere by accident. But Tiger and Lindsey? They wanted more than that. They wanted to up the cheesiness factor. So they took professional portraits and made official announcements on each of their professional Facebook accounts.

Yes. I'm serious. Who do they think they are with these pics, Prince William and Kate Middleton?

Seriously, what couple have you known to EVER release photos announcing they they're DATING!? Engaged, yes. Having a baby, of course! Married -- mazel tov! But dating? It's like Tiger Woods has made it his personal mission to announce to the world that a woman is actually OK dating him after everything that's happened.

Listen, to each their own. If you want to take total cheesy pictures to announce that you're officially exclusive with someone, they hey, I guess that's your choice. I just can't wait to see what happens if Tiger and Lindsey get engaged one day. A full-on movie montage? Hey, a girl can hope.

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

What do you think of Tiger and Lindsey's big couple announcement? Have you ever heard of someone taking photos like this?

Images via nick step, familymwr/ Flickr

Tiger Woods' Girlfriend Lindsey Vonn Wants Him to Be Friends With His Ex -- Is She Crazy?

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:15:00 EDT

Post by Emily Abbate

Lindsey Vonn and Tiger Woods are everywhere lately. First, they were spotted in Antigua in January, then Vonn used the pro golfer's private jet back in February, and just recently, the duo reportedly spent a week shacked up on Tiger's yacht. Oh the life of the rich and ridiculously athletic. Rumor has it that he wants to marry again and she's the one. Whoa. Never thought that I'd hear THAT after the Elin Nordegren fiasco.

The interesting part? Reportedly Vonn really wants Tiger to be on good terms with Elin. A source tells Hollywood Life that Lindsey's a "peace maker" and thinks that it's important for the former couple to be friends for their kids.

Well hey, with the kids involved, Linds has a point. In any other situation, though, I'm just not so sure I'd be SO all for my current boyfriend, someone I may marry, to be chummy with his ex.

Listen, I'm not saying it's not a possibility to be friends with your ex. Heck, I am. With that said, though, I do believe that there's a certain level of interaction that's OK with an ex and a certain level that's not. There is a reason they are an ex. Sometimes when you hang out all the time, it's easier to remember the good things and forgive the bad.

With that said, whether or not there are still feelings there, it's VERY rare that your current partner feels 100 percent comfortable with you spending time with your ex, especially a recent one. It's critical to have that conversation with your partner. They're the person whose feelings should be mattering to you the most right now.

Like I said, though, Lindsey has a point. Tiger and Elin have kids together. Kids that need their love and attention. Having a cordial relationship, to say the least, is only going to make things better for everyone involved, including Lindsey.

Are you friends with an ex?

Image via nick step/Flickr

Tiger Woods' New Girlfriend Lindsey Vonn Must Be in Denial

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 12:37:00 EDT

Post by Kiri Blakeley

No one should have their past held against them forever, but when you're talking about Tiger Woods, that's one hell of a past. It was only a couple of years ago that seemingly dozens of marital infidelities came to light, destroying his marriage to Elin Nordegren, the mother of his two children. Tiger lost his reputation, some endorsement deals, and his game for awhile. But he seems to have gained one thing: a new girlfriend. And she's not a stripper or porn star. She's Olympian skiier Lindsey Vonn. She's blonde, young, and beautiful. And apparently she doesn't mind Tiger's past ... I guess???

Tiger and Lindsay reportedly spent a week holed up together on his yacht, ironically called "Privacy," after his win at a big tournament in Florida. And apparently it's not just any old fling (Tiger is good at those). He's thinking about marrying the woman!! Says a source to Star magazine:

He wants to marry again and thinks Lindsey could be the woman.

Yikes!!! Okay, it's Star magazine and probably maybe definitely not that true -- but she is spending a lot of time with him. On his yacht!! I mean, what's the conversation like before a meeting like that?

"Tiger, you know I like you, and we've been seeing each other for awhile and I'd love to take things to the next level and all, but ... well, you're a manwhore. You know it, I know it. Hell, the whole world knows it. So, Tiger, I'm going to have to request STD tests administered by three different doctors and additionally we will be using a quadruple-ply condom invented by NASA specifically for the use of sex in space. Okay? Please don't be offended."

Seriously, you've got to have some kind of conversation, right? I have no doubt that Tiger will marry again. Hell, Sandra Bullock's cheating ex Jesse James is engaged. There always seems to be a woman willing to say, "He did it to her but he won't to me." Or "He's changed since then." Or "She must have caused it." Or even "Whatever he did doesn't bother me."

But it's always gotta be somewhere in the back of her mind ... right? Maybe not. Denial is a very strong and effective thing.

Could you be with a guy like Tiger?

Image via SplashNews

LeBron James’ Wedding Weekend Revealed and He Must Not Be a Fan of Horror Movies

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:00:00 EST

Post by Jill Baughman

Holy crap, folks, have you heard?! This news is going to change your life. LeBron James is getting married to Savannah Brinson! And TMZ was able to get a photo of their "save-the-weekend"! It's pretty cute, but there are a couple issues with the thing that one simply cannot ignore.

But for some very exciting background info: James is going to tie the knot with his fiancee in San Diego, California. They asked guests to show up on the weekend of September 13-15. There's also a very cute caricature of Bron, Savannah, and their two children flying on a plane, dressed up in their nicest wedding gear. James and Brinson have been dating off and on since high school in Akron, Ohio.

James proposed on New Year's Eve 2011, and the ring supposedly cost ... $300,000!! Ah, to be rich and famous.

But back to those issues about the date. Let's discuss.

First, TMZ pointed out that September 13 is actually the beginning of Yom Kippur. That's a very holy day for Judaism, and Hebrews are supposed to fast for 24 hours and pray during that time. Eep! Could be tough for some of the guests to be able to make it, assuming LeBron has invited some Jewish friends?

But that's not the worst part. Or maybe it is, depending on how superstitious you are. September 13 is a Friday. Who would want to start off their wedding weekend on Friday the 13th?! Would anyone really want to begin a (hopefully) lifetime of happiness with their partner on one of the unluckiest days of the year? Hell no! Though they'll probably get hitched on that Saturday, still ... why even risk it. Even if it's a rehearsal dinner on Friday the 13th, it just feels like you've given yourself an opening for things to go wrong. Let's hope no black cats are invited and that the couple steers clear of ladders. And mirrors.

Of course, it's just a day, the date won't mean anything in the long run, blah blah. But for some people, the risk is simply too great.

Still, LeBron is super-famous and a gazillionaire, so maybe he's above such a silly thing called "luck." But since Friday the 13th is involved in their wedding weekend, let's hope they sign a prenup (actually, let's hope they sign a prenup regardless of the date).

Would you ever get married or do something important on Friday the 13th?

Image via david_shankbone/Flickr

911 Call From Hope Solo’s Pre-Wedding Brawl Reveals Boozy Violence (VIDEO)

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:32:00 EST

Post by Linda Sharps

What's worse, 1) police responding to a knock-down domestic altercation the night before your wedding, or 2) enduring the media scrutiny afterwards because you're a famous sports figure? For soccer star Hope Solo, I'm thinking the answer might be 3) having the audio recording of the 911 call released to the public four months later.

Police in Kirkland, Washington have completed their investigation into the incident that happened at Solo's home on November 12, 2012, and no charges have been filed. However, the freshly-released audio of the 911 call reveals just how bizarrely violent Solo's pre-wedding party got that night. Booze! Fighting! A stun gun! A domestic violence arrest for Solo's then-fiance Jerramy Stevens! As for the instigator of the prenuptial melee, the voice on the call would only say, "We won't go there."

The call was made by Hope's brother, Marcus Solo. He starts by saying that someone -- not Hope -- had been accidentally injured during a physical altercation:

There was a little fight inside the house and she got thrown to the ground and she might have dislocated her hip.

When the dispatcher asks if any weapons were involved in the fight, Solo says "A stun gun, actually." He says that alcohol was involved, and that the people who had been fighting were now separated. The dispatcher asks him who instigated the violence, and Solo responds,

We won't go there, please get here.

It was previously reported that when police arrived, Hope Solo had a bleeding cut on her elbow and Jerramy Stevens was found hiding in a bedroom, lying between a bed and the wall. He claimed he'd been sleeping and was unaware of any fighting, but wouldn't disclose how he got blood on his shirt. Stevens finally admitted he'd been fighting with Solo, and he was arrested for fourth-degree assault (the charges were later dropped).

Here's the clip of the 911 call:

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

Interestingly, here's what Solo posted on Twitter about the incident a few days later:

Now that the call has been released, I'm not really sure what the media can be accused of "spinning." I mean, the wedding went on as planned so everyone must have made peace with whatever happened that night (or they sobered up), but the fact remains that there was some seriously nasty business going down. People got hurt, a weapon was involved, and the police were summoned to help sort the whole thing out. I'd say that all sounds legitimately dramatic, and I sincerely hope her marriage has been spectacularly boring ever since.

Are you surprised by the details of this 911 call?

Image via US Soccer

Michael Jordan’s New Paternity Suit for a 16-Year-Old Is All Kinds of Wrong

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 14:07:00 EST

Post by Sasha Brown-Worsham

Basketball legend and all around amazing athlete Michael Jordan has been hit with a paternity lawsuit from an Atlanta woman who claims the superstar is the father of her 16-year-old son. She wants child support and a share of medical, dental and hospital costs that are not covered by insurance.

It’s not his first paternity lawsuit, but the first one was thrown out because (duh) he WASN’T the father. Do these women think they can cheat paternity tests? A paternity suit against an athlete is not exactly a shocking thing in this day and age. In fact, I once heard that professional athletes are basically told early on that they can and should expect to be framed in this way by women looking for a quick pay day.

Now, Jordan may very well have sired this boy. He is clearly fertile as he has three children with his former wife, two boys and a girl. But I would look at this with a lot of doubt, especially considering this is not the first time.

As a mother and a woman, I have to say, I am completely disgusted by this. I truly can’t imagine anything more disgusting than trying to get pregnant or using your womb to get a pay day. It’s bad for the child. Terrible, in fact. What child wants to know that his mother essentially chose to have him against his father’s wishes and then hit him up for money when she was too pathetic to hack it on her own. Not too impressive.

If Jordan is this child’s father, then of course, he owes him money. But 16 years later? What kind of relationship can they have? Women who do this give ALL women a bad name. Forcing a man into a paternity situation is about the lowest of the low. Whether she is telling the truth or not, it is still a bad situation and the person who is most hurt is a defenseless child.

Sure, accidental pregnancies happen, but who would believe this was an “oops?” There are more of these calculated things than any of us know and whether it is for money or a trick to lock a man down, having a child for any other reason than wanting to be a mother and having a good situation to bring them into just feels wrong.

It will be interesting to see how all this plays out.

Do you think Jordan will be the dad?

Image via Splash

Serena Williams Gets Caught Taking Forbidden Photo of Tiger Woods (VIDEO)

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 13:32:00 EST

Post by Kiri Blakeley

Serena Williams, the number one tennis ace in the world, is not accustomed to being denied something she wants. So it came to quite a shock to her when she was slapped down for trying to take a photo. Serena was watching Tiger Woods line up his shot at a PGA tournament in Florida when she raised her pink cellphone to snap a pic. But the tennis phenom apparently had no idea that taking pics of the golf champ is strictly forbidden. I can only imagine that this is posted everywhere -- and probably announced too -- but, hey, It's me, Serena! Lemme do what I want! So she excitedly held up her camera to snap a shot when ... doh! She got sooooo busted. And it's really funny.

As Serena holds up her pink cam to take the shot, the TV camera zooms in on her. And then a security guard quickly comes over, places his hand right in front of her camera and quickly lowers her hand.

The look on Serena's face is priceless. She hangs her mouth open FOREVER. I'm surprised a bird didn't fly into it. Then the announcers begin poking fun of her.

"Serena, you may be number one in the world of tennis, but no special privileges out here," says one. "She can't believe it!"

Another pipes in with "She's flabbergasted." Then he says, "I think Tiger might have allowed Serena to snap that picture."

Serena then tweeted:

OK at this golf tournament. Just saw @tigerwoods ... Apparently u can't take pics. This security for mad and yelled at me.

Yelled at, really?! I didn't see her get yelled at by anyone. Is Serena so spoiled that when the guard might have said something like, "No pictures," she interpreted that as being yelled at? Well, boo hoo.

Anyway, it's nice to see there are still events in the world where pictures are forbidden. I'm so tired of people watching their cameras instead of what's actually happening in front of them.

Have you ever taken a picture where you're not supposed to?

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

First Female Player May Finally Join the NFL -- Are You Ready? (VIDEO)

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 15:20:00 EST

Post by Jill Baughman

The NFL has always been known as a boys' club, for obvious reasons. It's a male-dominated world, from the players to the coaches to the media personalities who are commenting on said testosterone-y world. But now we've got Lauren Silberman, who's trying out at the NFL regional trials this coming Sunday in New Jersey. And she's the first woman to ever do so!

Silberman, 28, doesn't have all that much experience (she's trying out to be a kicker), but she has played soccer at the University of Wisconsin. She's probably a natural athlete too. Her shot at getting into the NFL is pretty slim, but she was able to get an invite to the trial after a video appeared online showing her making field goals at an event. Pretty cool, huh?

Let's hope she kicks (ha) ass. Wouldn't it be amazing to see a woman take the field to make a game-winning kick? Talk about Rudy-type inspiration. God I love that movie.

Anyway. Here's what she has to say on the sitch: "I am working hard to prepare but I am also realistic about my chances," she wrote in an email. "I hope my willingness to put myself out there inspires others to seize opportunities and challenges. The support from around the world has been so heartening."

These regional combines started in 2011; players who weren't invited to the main combine in Indianapolis are able to try out. Ten cities are hosting these regional combines, and the best players will advance to a super-regional in April, which will take place in Dallas, Texas.

At the regional tryouts, Lauren will be competing against college kickers who have been training like crazy for this moment, but you never know. And it seems she's treating it more as a push for diversity in the sport, not as a big publicity stunt. With a little more training and a couple more shots at the tryouts, maybe she could become the next Danica Patrick?

Best of luck to Lauren this weekend. Reportedly her goal is to kick perfect 60-yard field goals. Let's hope that she can at least make that happen!

Here she is talking about her tryout during a phone interview:

See this video on The Stir by CafeMom.

Do you think we'll soon see a day when women are playing in the NFL?

Image via tuprice/YouTube

Will Oscar Pistorius Be the Next Famous Athlete Convicted of Killing the Woman He Loved?

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 18:55:00 EST

Post by Ericka Sóuter

The charges against Oscar Pistorius are shocking, to say the least. It wasn't that long ago we watched his historic rise as an Olympic athlete. He had done something never before seen at the games: a double amputee competiting with prosthetics. Overcoming so much, he was an inspiration to us all. Which makes his fall from grace so much more devastating.

As prosecutors pursue premeditated murder charges, Pistorius insists he is innocent. If he is, in fact, found guilty of this crime, it leaves one question on our lips -- why? Why would someone with such a seemingly blessed life, throw it all away in a fit of rage? While there is no easy answer to that, one thing is clear. There may be an epidemic of violence among athletes.

Frighteningly, there are other high profile cases of sports stars committing horrific acts of violence against the women they supposedly love. This, of course, is a small minority of athletes. The majority, I am sure, could never imagine hurting someone they cared for in this way. Those that do are the freakish exception, not the rule. But the cases that do catch national attention are so gruesome, so scary, it merits some kind of discussion.

Again, I have to ask why? Is it something about their lifestyle and circumstance that lends itself to violence? Do the guys who commit these crimes feel so empowered, so invincible that abuse feels justifiable? Why act out against a woman? They have influence, money, status -- why throw it all away in a fit of rage. Domestic violence experts say the abuse is about power - plain and simple. But these guys already have so much of it, why take out their frustrations on the women in their lives?

I know, there are why more questions than answers here. I wish I had a solution but I am just confounded as everyone else. Sadly, if Pistorius is found guilty, he will be apart of a club much more exclusive than that of an Olympian. He would become another famous athlete convicted of killing the woman he loved. So tragic.

Here are other horrifying incidents that made headlines:

Image via David Jones/Flickr

Lindsey Vonn: 8 Things to Know About Tiger Woods' New 'Girlfriend'

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 13:09:49 EST

Post by Emily Abbate

U.S. skier Lindsey Vonn may be hurting professionally after suffering a devastating injury during the Alpine World Championships in Austria on Tuesday, but it seems her personal life is heating up. Although nothing has been confirmed, rumors are flying that Vonn is dating Tiger Woods. Vonn and Woods have been "hanging out more recently," were spotted in Antigua in January, and after her injury -- the skier was spotted using the pro golfer's private jet to return back home. A pretty HUGE favor for "just a friend," eh?

Vonn's divorce made a splash in the headlines last year, as did the rumor that Tim Tebow may have had something to do with it. Tiger Woods, well, we know ALL about the catastrophic divorce from Elin Nordegren. The question: Are these two recently divorced sports stars a match made in ESPN heaven?

Check out these 8 things to know about Lindsey Vonn, and then decide for yourself:

1. Lindsey is originally from St. Paul, Minnesota.

2. She's been skiing since she was two.

3. She moved to Colorado with her family at age 11 to pursue her dream of being a professional skier.

4. She has two Olympic medals, one gold and one bronze.

5. In 2011, she won her fourth consecutive overall World Cup title and was named the U.S. Olympic Committee's Sportswoman of the Year in both 2009 and 2010.

6. Lindsey skis on men's skis because she thinks they feel "more stable."

7. Lindsey owns a cow and a goat, both of which she won different skiing events.

8. Lindsey posed in the 2010 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Watch out, Kate Upton!

In my eyes, their common sports background may be a good point for them. But the fact that Lindsey may be willing to give a man who cheated on his wife with dozens of women a chance, well, it just doesn't sound like a recipe for awesomeness to me.

Do you think Lindsey and Tiger are really together?

Photo via Stanko Gruden/ Getty Images

Super Bowl Blackout Explained ... Even Though We Know It Was Beyonce

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:36:00 EST

Post by Adriana Velez

Okay, New Orleans. Let's talk about this blackout at the Super Bowl. A whole 34 minutes in the dark! (Or anyway, in auxiliary lights.) What happened? Did the 49ers pull the plug for an extra-long time-out? Was Beyoncé too hot? Was it the ghost of Katrina?

There is an "official" explanation, but it's incredibly vague: An "abnormality in the system" cased the Super Bowl blackout, according to Superdome officials. A piece of monitoring equipment picked up on the abnormality and shut off the lights so the issue could be isolated. The emergency generators kicked in immediately. But they don't know what caused that "abnormality."

Obviously that abnormality was the Destiny's Child reunion. Just saying.

Anyway, people in charge feel bad. "We sincerely apologize for the incident," says Superdome spokesman Eric Eagan. NOLA mayor Mitch Landrieu says, "The power outage was an unfortunate moment in what has been an otherwise shining Super Bowl week for the city of New Orleans. For us, the Super Bowl isn't over until the last visitor leaves town, so we're focused on continuing to show our visitors a good time."

As for the Superdome Light Crew, they got a little bit defensive via Twitter: "What people don't talk about is how the lights were on for the entire first half.. #smh #superbowl." Haha, it's just a joke account, you guys. @SuperBowlLights joined in to say, "The game was over anyway." Which it kind of was, right? I mean, the 49ers came back for a bit right after, but the Ravens still won. (I write, fronting like I was even watching the game, which of course I wasn't because it was Downton Abbey time.) So many funny tweets about that blackout.

But seriously, The Times Picayune found Superdome meeting memos discussing upgrades that needed to be made to the system before the Super Bowl. So ... good luck nabbing that Olympic bid, guys!

It wasn't the only crazy moment in the Super Bowl. Still, the images from the blackout are super disturbing. Those poor people stranded in the stadium! Hope the Red Cross sent out emergency food rations and flotation devices for them.

What were you doing during the Great Super Bowl Blackout of 2013?

7 Crazy Super Bowl 2013 Moments That Made for the Weirdest Game Ever

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:03:00 EST

Post by Jeanne Sager

There have been some pretty crazy moments in the 47 years of Super Bowl history. But Super Bowl XLVII may just have taken the prize for the craziest game on record. The lights in the Superdome went out in the middle of the game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens, for crying out loud! And did you catch that Ravens player pushing the ref? Or that 108-yard touchdown run?

Nestled in between all those commercials were moments we'll be talking about for days. Just in case you missed 'em, here's what you need to know to keep up with the conversation:

1. Jacoby Jones Makes Super Bowl History. The Baltimore Ravens wide receiver was in his hometown to play in the Super Bowl, and then things got really cool. He caught the opening kickoff of the second quarter and started running. And NO ONE STOPPED HIM! The special teamer made it all the way from one endzone to the other to score a touchdown. The 108-yard run (at first it was being reported as 109 yards but the NFL has confirmed the slightly smaller number) is an NFL postseason record. It also made the Ravens the first team in history to get two Super Bowl kickoff returns for touchdowns.

2. Cary Williams Shoves a Ref. There's no doubt tensions are high during a game, but Baltimore Ravens cornerback Cary Williams got extremely lucky when he lost his composure. Williams shoved a ref right in the chest during a second-quarter brawl, but he was allowed to stay in the game anyway.

More From The Stir: 11 Best Super Bowl Commercials of 2013 (VIDEOS)

3. Joe Flacco Drops the F-bomb. After public outrage over his use of the r-word prior to the big game, you'd have thought Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco would have learned to be a little more careful with his words. Unfortunately the Super Bowl MVP was caught on camera saying the f-word while celebrating with his teammates.

4. The Superdome Lights Go Out. For 34 minutes during the third quarter, America watched everything BUT an actual football game (or commercials) as the folks in the Superdome struggled to get the lights back on!

5. Ravens Fake a Field Goal. It's never happened in Super Bowl history, but John Harbaugh decided to let his team fake a field goal. Kicker Justin Tucker lined up for the field goal, went through his pre-kick routine, and then ran the ball! He was stopped short by the 49ers special teams, but the Ravens certainly showed chutzpah.

6. The 49ers Make a Comeback ... and Blow It. It was looking like a blow-out with the Ravens leading 28-6 at halftime. Then the lights went out, and the Niners remembered how to play football. With Colin Kaepernick leading the way, they brought the score within two to 31-29. Seventeen points in four minutes! But they just couldn't do it. The Ravens took it 34-31.

7. Coaches Jim and John Harbaugh Say I Love You. It was the first time ever that the two Super Bowl teams were coached by brothers. And that meant the first time we heard the opposing coaches exchanging I love yous after the game. Interestingly, the brothers Harbaugh opted to shake hands rather than hug after John's team took the Lombardi trophy.

What were the Super Bowl moments that had you up on your feet, yelling at the TV?

Image via Getty Images/Mike Ehrmann

Super Bowl 2013: When and Where to Watch and What Time Beyonce’s Halftime Show Begins

Sat, 02 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

Post by Adriana Velez

It's Super Bowl time everybody! Are you ready for some FOOTBALL! We've gathered everything you need to know to enjoy the Super Bowl XLVII this weekend.

This Sunday, February 3, the Baltimore Ravens will face the San Francisco 49ers in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana. Kick-off time is at 5:30 E.T. The game will air on CBS, or you can watch the game online for free at CBSsports.com. Over 100 million people are expected to watch -- and several more will watch the halftime show. Here's EVEN MORE on the Super Bowl, including the part we're most looking forward to...

Two brothers face off in this Super Bowl: John Harbaugh is head coach for the Ravens and Jim Harbaugh is head coach for the 49ers. Some are calling this the Harbaugh Bowls. No word yet on which team their mom is rooting for. (Both of them, of course!)

The teams are competing for the Lombardi Trophy. This will be the last game for Ravens Linebacker Ray Lewis, who has had a 17-year career. Alicia Keys will sing the national anthem.

Now my favorite part: The halftime show!

Beyonce will join Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams for a Destiny's Child reunion. OR MAYBE SHE WON'T! We'll just have to wait and see.

What time? That's a good question, especially for those of us who don't live with football fans and aren't planning on tuning in until the halftime show. Football doesn't run on a strict schedule, and even though more people are expected to watch the halftime show than the actual game they can't schedule the game around the halftime show. (Even though they probably should, just saying). PopCrush estimates the halftime show will probably start around 8:00, 8:15.

Now let's talk about that set list. Us Weekly reports that Beyonce will kick off a solo set with "Crazy in Love." About halfway through Destiny's Child will start their set together and will sing "Bills, Bills, Bills," "Survivor," and "Nuclear." The entire halftime show runs 12 minutes long, so I'm guessing there will be more songs than this.

Beyonce is not getting paid by the NFL for her appearance (thought they are paying the dancers in her show). She appears as part of her $50 million deal with Pepsi. NFL is reimbursing her for production costs for the show.

Weather report for Sunday: Partly cloudy with a high of 69 degrees, but the show will go on regardless of the weather because it's an indoor gig.

Who will win? Beyonce, obviously!

And now something completely silly: Click here for a side-by-side comparison of the Puppy Super Bowl starting lineup and the Super Bowl starting lineup.

Are you planning to watch the Super Bowl or just the halftime show?

Image via CBS Sports