TIPSHEET

KNOW THIS

The NFL is implementing what looks to be roughly an 87-step process to ensure balls are inflated properly and not tampered with in NFL games. Since the league has no other problems, it can focus a lot of energy here.

WATCH THIS

The Pirates are now where the Twins might hope to be in a year or two: firmly entrenched as a contender after years of struggle. Check out two teams in different stages of development in the series opener at Target Field (7 p.m., FSN).

RANDOM FANDOM

"Bridgewater had a fine rookie season but has a LONG way to go to prove himself. He has potential, but he hasn't come near earning a spot in the top 10 or even top 15. Let's just take it easy and see how this plays out."

— mplsfrozen80 commenting on startribune.com.

Weigh in on what you're thinking about to mrand@startribune.com

TWEETED

"The Celtics have 17 players with guaranteed contracts and can only play 5 of them at a time."

Bridgewater

@BillSimmons