On Wednesday, the Toronto Blue Jays signed A.J. Burnett to a five-year, $55 million contract. The right-handed pitcher was the most sought-after free agent starter. Former Baltimore Orioles closer B.J. Ryan signed a five-year deal with the team less than two weeks earlier. The New York-Boston divisional race may have a new participant.

Samkon Gado has risen from obscurity to become the Green Bay Packers primary ball carrier. Since being given the job in Week 9, he has rushed for 283 yards and four touchdowns, with one touchdown reception. It is great to see an underdog succeed.

Last year, the University of Vermont ice hockey program had its strongest season since the hazing investigation of 2000. This year the team took a step forward by leaving the ECACHL conference to begin play in Hockey East. With their ninth-place ranking, they are looking to show they belong with the best teams in the east.