BY GEOFF HOBSON **
Boomer says .500 possible
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Boomer Esiason is still mulling his TV possibilities. But he thinks there's a chance he could be reporting about a Bengals team that goes 8-8 for the first time since 1996.
"I think they've made some nice additions on defense," Esiason said today. "They're older players, but they're solid. They've certainly got some weapons on offense. Peter Warrick looks to be a dangerous player and gives them a dimension returning punts. They should get a lift from going into the new stadium. But they've got to get (Pro Bowl running back) Corey Dillon back. They need him to take the pressure off a young quarterback."
Esiason, the former Bengals quarterback who lost his job as the analyst on ABC Monday Night Football earlier this year, won't reveal what he'll do next. But he says it's safe to assume it will be broadcasting football.
He's also writing for two magazines, "NFL Insider," and "Dad's Magazine." He's a part-owner of Dad's and in the first issue Esiason writes about one of his close friends who is raising three children after his wife died.
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RADIO DEAL:
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Esiason will again be part of WLW-AM's "Best Bengals Coverage," for the upcoming season. It should be even better after "The Big One," secured the rights to broadcast Bengals' games today. The club joined with Clear Channel to put the games on WCKY-AM (All Sports 1360 Homer) and WOFX (92.5 FM The Fox). The games will also be on WLW when there is no conflict with the Reds.
The broadcast team has yet to be announced. Former Bengal Dave Lapham, who has been an analyst since 1986, plans to sit down with Clear Channel officials today.
KICKER SIGNED:
The Bengals signed punter/kickoff man Josh Boies to a 10-day contract. It's his first NFL deal since coming out of Temple in 1998.
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LIST OF WINNERS OF THE FOOTBALL CONTEST:
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- Richard Compton of Lexington, KY Jerry Suttles of Maplewood, OH Bill Stott of Pace, FL Mike Powell of Topeka, KS Robin Hensley of Springfield, OH
All the winners have been notified. The footballs have been signed by WR Peter Warrick. They are on the way. Thanks to everyone who particpated, and thank you for visiting our site.
