After continually being criticized for never being able to hit a game winning shot, LeBron James finally got that monkey off his back during the Cavaliers’ thrilling 120-118 overtime victory over the Charlotte Bobcats Wednesday night. With time winding down and the game tied, LeBron, who finished with 37 points, pulled up for a mid-range jumper to give the Cavaliers their third straight win. Not to be overlooked, Flip Murray was the man again late in fourth quarter, hitting a three-pointer from the corner as time expired to send the game to overtime. This guy continues to hit big shots at key times for the Cavs.

Hopefully Wednesday’s game winning heroics by LeBron will shut up the critics once and for all. And how about that outstanding pass by James to Flip at the end of regulation.

The Cleveland Indians find themselves in the same situation as their neighboring Cavaliers. They are both in a division that has the World Champions. The Indians are currently ranked behind the Chicago White Sox’s in the early polls, although the wild card is a very attainable goal. The most critical factor for this young team and Coach Eric Wedge is to not “start slow’.

The last couple years, Cleveland and Coach Wedge have started slow and spent the entire season making up ground. The talent and parity in the American League will not allow them to do that and still be competitive this year. It is critical for Cleveland to get out of the blocks fast and put the pressure on the Chicago early. The success of team will be based on the success of C. C. Sabathia as our number one starter, a position he has struggled with his entire career. The first month of the season will shape the entire year.

The college football spring practices are beginning and Ohio State is already getting national attention. The Buckeyes will have to be an offensive minded team and ride the backs of Troy Smith and Ted Ginn Jr. to have success this year. The normally defensive minded Coach Jim Tressel with have to loosen the reigns and take some chances on offense to make a run at the title. The first challenge will be early in Texas, a chance for Ohio State to knock off the National Champions.