I understand ESPN's role as a source of both information and entertainment, but what's with all the recent movie promos and tie-ins?

A couple weeks ago I tuned into ESPNews only to see Michael Chiklis and Jessica Alba being interviewed about the new "Fantastic Four" movie. And this week we've been bombarded with the ESPN "Live Free or Die Hard" challenge, in which fans can go see a taping of SportsCenter and a private screening of the fourth "Die Hard" movie with Bruce Willis. Apparently there will be a special "Live Free or Die Hard" edition of SportsCenter on June 26. What, are we going to see Karl Ravech drive his car off of a skyscraper? Will Bob Ley run barefoot across some glass? I don't get it.

.... Stay tuned for the latest on the battle between the NFL Players' Association and the group of retired players who are fighting for changes to the union's disability assistance program. Leaders from both sides are scheduled to testify before a House subcommittee today.

In the morning, a group of retired players including Mike Ditka, Sam Huff, Brian DeMarco and Joe Delamielleure will hold a press briefing at the National Press Club.