NFL's latest challenger

Wonder what the chances for success of the new United Football League are?

It'll likely go the way of the XFL USFL and WFL, but there could be some interesting moments along the way.

At least, it'll be more exciting than the NFL, at least for TV viewers.

Examples, according to an Associated Press story:

* TV cameras in locker rooms for the first few minutes of halftime.

* Some coach-to-quarterback communication and sideline talk, although no strategy.

* 'Tasteful' celebrations allowed.

But a league official says it's not a "gimmick league" and most on-field play will resemble the NFL.

I suspect the NFL is too large, and rich, to be challenged. But maybe a little competition will keep things interesting.

Frankly, I'm beginning to wonder if maybe NASCAR is the real pro sports operation which needs a challenge. Ratings are falling, officials manipulate the races (too many 'cautions') and so forth. And I'm not all at all convinced that driver Jeremy Mayfield used meth, in spite of NASCAR's claims. Hopefully he'll be found innocent.