Southern California Sports: Miracles, Memories, and Magic Numbers

University of Southern California running back Stafon Johnson suffered a ghastly weightlifting accident Monday when the bar slipped and landed on his throat.

Johnson's surgeon said that Johnson's fitness saved his life because his neck muscles were so strong they helped keep open an airway. Click the title of this post for the story.

Johnson endured a seven-hour surgery on his throat and larynx. He is likely out for the season but is expected to make a complete recovery, although how his voice will recover is not yet known.

A happy ending to a very scary situation.

The Anaheim Angels clinched the A.L. Western Division last night and will head for the playoffs for the fifth time in the last six years.

Before celebrating, the Angels paused to remember Nick Adenhart, the rookie pitcher who was killed in a car accident after pitching six scoreless innings last April.

After manager Mike Scioscia spoke to the team about Adenhart, team members then poured champagne on Adenhart's jersey and went to the outfield to take a team photo in front of Adenhart's picture, which has been on the outfield wall all season.

The Los Angeles Dodgers lost in Pittsburgh yesterday and come home from a rough road trip with a Magic Number of one to clinch their playoff berth.

The team plays tonight in San Diego.

As T.J. Simers writes in the Times, Dodgers fans are probably just as happy the celebration was delayed until the team returned to California, as that means Vin Scully will be there to call the game.


This photo was taken five years ago...time to get the flags up again for the playoffs!