Leading Off

Knot Guilty

Tennessee center Josh McNeil found the shoelaces of a Florida defender fair game for his idle hands as the linemen unpiled last Saturday in Knoxville. McNeil's manipulations did nothing to trip up the No. 4 Gators, who rumbled to a 30--6 victory.

Missing the Boat

Top Hydro Fuel driver Mark Workentine of Fresno lost control of his 8,000-horsepower vessel, Whiskey River, during qualifying last Friday at the San Diego Thunderboat Regatta. Though he was traveling at 145 mph, Workentine remained safe and secure in the capsule, which separated from the boat as it splintered and skidded across Mission Bay.

Final Plate Appearance

Returning to his familiar spot on the field, Hall of Fame catcher Yogi Berra took in Yankee Stadium for the last time on Sunday. Berra was one of 21 former Yanks who paid their respects to the House That Ruth Built and were honored before the final game in the 85-year-old ballpark. The new Yankee Stadium opens next spring across the street.