SI.com's 10 most popular stories from the week ending Aug. 15

Here is a roundup of SI.com's 10 most popular stories this week. Be sure to read to the bottom for a bonus story from the SI Vault.

Author:
SI Staff
Publish date:
Aug 14, 2014

Here is a roundup of SI.com's 10 most popular stories this week. Be sure to read to the bottom for a bonus story from the SI Vault.

The handicapper's tale

Allegations of game-fixing grabbed Major League Baseball's attention. The real story was even stranger. By Lance Williams and Brian Tuohy.

Since LeBron James tweeted a picture of his slimmed-down frame, his weight loss has sparked interest. But the most interesting part of his new low-carb diet might be the other benefits. By Jamie Lisanti.

Longform: Neil Leifer's boxing photos

Neil Leifer has delivered some of the most iconic images in Sports Illustrated’s 60-year history. Here, Leifer reveals — in his own words — the behind-the-scenes effort it took to attain some of the seminal photos in boxing history.

The Preseason Top 25

Defending champion Florida State leads Sports Illustrated's preseason top 25. But the real drama comes from the introduction of the College Football Playoff this year. See who SI thinks will land the four playoff spots.

Romo on Romo

The Cowboys quarterback on coming back stronger from back surgery, getting to play behind a reliable offensive line and what the future holds. By Robert Klemko.

Problem at the plate

It has become apparent that major league umpires don’t understand the new rule put in place to protect against home plate collisions. Take a look at some screencaps and see if you can tell who's out and who's safe. By Cliff Corcoran.

Premier League preview

The English Premier League season kicks off this weekend, with Manchester City beginning its title defense, Liverpool beginning life after Luis Suarez and a host of challengers vying for the trophy. Check out SI.com's team-by-team preview.

Ready to break out

Sheldon Richardson, Eddie Lacy and Eric Reid made an impact as rookies last season. Here are some other members of their draft class who should emerge in their second season in the NFL. By Chris Burke.

Catching up with ... Robert Horry

"Big Shot Bob" won seven NBA championships and made his name with clutch shooting in key moments. See what he's up to today. By Evan Webeck.

Measuring his impact

Florida State defensive end Mario Edwards Jr. had 3.5 sacks last season. But as his coach Jimbo Fisher said, “Sacks don’t equate to greatness." Edwards' impact this year should again go beyond his sack total. By Andy Staples.

SI Vault Bonus: Jordan's return

In 1995, Michael Jordan announced his return to dominance with a 55-point game at Madison Square Garden. In this week's SI Vault selection, relive the moment MJ showed he was back in form. By Alexander Wolff.