Ebola flaring anew in Africa, Red Cross officials say

Published November 18, 2014

Health workers wearing protective clothing prepare to carry an abandoned dead body presenting with Ebola symptoms at Duwala market in Monrovia August 17, 2014. REUTERS/2Tango

Red Cross officials helping to lead the fight against Ebola in West Africa said Monday the virus is still spreading, and they're having trouble recruiting health care workers to combat it.

Antoine Petitbon of the French Red Cross said that it's easier for him to recruit people to go to Iraq, despite the security hazards there. He said the French Red Cross is facing an unprecedented problem: Sixty percent of people it signs up to work in the Ebola zone subsequently back out due to pressure from families and friends.

Birte Hald, head of emergency operations for the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said that after a recent surge of optimism that the virus was coming under control, especially in Liberia, it "is flaring up in new villages, in new locations." On Monday, Hald said, a team of international experts was being set to Mali to assist that nation's health authorities in stemming an outbreak of Ebola there.

"Unfortunately, it doesn't look as if we have bent the curve yet," said Hald, who heads the Red Cross federation's anti-Ebola effort in Africa. "It is absolutely premature to start being optimistic."

Ebola has killed more than 5,000 people in West Africa, mostly in Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leona. On Monday, a surgeon who contracted Ebola in his native Sierra Leone died in a Nebraska hospital while being treated in a biocontainment unit, the hospital announced.

Red Cross officials, speaking at a joint news conference in Brussels, called on the media to get out the message that Ebola is not highly contagious. The better the public understands that, said Alasan Senghore, the federation's Africa director, "the more we will get people to volunteer to come and work in those countries."

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Ebola flaring anew in Africa, Red Cross officials say

Does It Make Sense To Own A Piece Of Ferrari?

Their signature red, beautifully-designed bodies turn heads at red carpet events. Their engines are constructed to emit some of the most pleasing sounds on earth as you accelerate down the road. Their posters dot the walls of childrens bedrooms and man-caves alike, equally coveted but rarely attainable since they cost as much asif not more thanyour house. There may not be a more desirable sports car than a Ferrari and while most of us will only drive one in our dreams, soon you will be able to casually brag to your friends and family that you own a piece of Ferrari. Ferrari has announced plans for an initial public offering in 2015.

Enzo Ferrari founded the racecar manufacturer in 1929, and in 1947 the company started producing streetcars. Fiat, which is now Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (NYSE: FCAU), initially acquired 50% of Ferrari in 1969, and today owns 90% of Ferrari. Ferrari currently ranks as the most powerful brand in the world, according to a study of 500 companies by Brand Finance, a leading brand consultancy firm. In an effort to capitalize on the Ferrari brand and maximize shareholder value FCA recently announced that it will sell 10% of its Ferrari holding in an initial public offering. Another 80% will be spun off to shareholders and the remaining 10% is owned by Piero Lardi Ferrari, the son of Enzo Ferrari. Shares are expected to be listed in the U.S. and possibly on a European exchange as well, by mid-to-late 2015.

Jared Gall 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari Photo. caranddriver.com Mar. 2014

Ferrari revenues for 2013 were 2.335 billion, a 5% increase over the previous year. This increase occurred even though the company cut production by 5% to preserve brand exclusiveness. 2013 operating profit was 364 million and net profit was 264 million. For the first nine months of 2014, revenues reached 2.011 billion, an increase of 300 million or 17.5% over the previous year. This was mainly attributable to the contribution from the LaFerrari supercar model. Operating profit was 274 million.

The company is currently seeing solid growth in North America, its largest market comprising 29% of revenue. Europe continues to be a challenging market due to economic conditions, and sales in China have been on the decline. Strength in Japan and the Middle East have somewhat offset the weakness in other parts of the world.

To further develop the brand, Ferrari also has over 50 Ferrari Stores worldwide and an online channel that sell clothing and accessories. Both have seen volumes continue to grow.The companys 2014-2018 plan calls for a full line of 8 and 12 cylinder high end performance street cars and a personalization program (where one can customize their own vehicle for an added cost) to add to profits. Ferrari also plans to continue major licensing agreements with video game companies Electronic Arts(NASDAQ:EA) and Codemasters, and Ferrari World in Abu Dabithe largest indoor park in the world. The plan also places emphasis on continued investment in sport activities. This is the one area that has hurt the brand, as Ferrari has failed to win a Formula 1 World Drivers Championship since 2007. Ferrari is also targeting margins in excess of 15%.

On the innovation front, development has continued on electric inverters and motors for application on hybrid electric and purely electric vehicles. The company has decided to create high end performance vehicles with socially conscious marketing and environmentally friendly features. Earlier this year Ferrari launched LaFerrari, their first hybrid. LaFerrari and the few other vehicles in the hybrid-sportscar class are nothing like your fathers Prius. The car has a 12-cylinder, 6-liter combustion engine and also boasts an electric engine that combine for 960 horsepower. The car does 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds and has a top speed of 220 mph. It also set the record for the fastest lap time for a production Ferrari at the companys Fiorano test track. But dont run off to the dealership just yetLaFerrari is the most expensive car the company has produced, retailing for an eye watering $1.4 million.

Jared Gall 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari Photo. caranddriver.com Mar. 2014

There is a wide variation in valuation for Ferrari with analysts estimates ranging from 3.5billion to 8 billion. FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne has said the value could be as much as 10 billion. The picture will become clearer as the company nears its IPO. In a filing last week, FCA announced that Ferrari would have to transfer 2.25 billion to FCA prior to the separation of the two companies, although it is still unclear how much debt Ferrari might hold. Ferrari has purposefully capped vehicle production at 7,000 cars per year. The company has said that volume could increase to 10,000 cars per year as the high net worth population expands in emerging markets. This could result in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) in excess of 1 billion. Luxury brands have sold for 11-13 times EBITDA in the past, so Marchionnes valuation estimate might not be out of line. With the luxury goods industry in vogue right now and many cash rich emerging market companies on the prowl for European brands with strong pasts, Ferraris engine could be just getting revved up.

Andrew Goodman is the Chief InvestmentOfficer atCIC Wealthand theChairman of Play It Coy. Circle him onGoogle+

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Red Dirt Diaries: Oklahoma Belly Dancers Win Competition

OKLAHOMA CITY -

In a land of two-step and swing, belly dancing in Oklahoma is turning heads nationwide.

"It's a dance that celebrates how women's bodies are built," said Heide Brandes with Aalim Dance Academy in NW Oklahoma City.

The instructor credited belly dancing with how she lost 35 pounds. Over the years, the classes have gotten more popular.

"A friend of mine invited me to come and I was hooked from the first class," said Arella Amar, who has been belly dancing for nine years.

"I tell my students to look at themselves (in the mirror), make eye contact and flirt with themselves," said an instructor at Aalim who goes by the name Ayperi Al Jawahir, during performances.

Aalim has competed in national competitions for years, but has never taken first place until just recently.

"It's a big honor for us," said Brandes, about their first place crown they won at a competition in Dallas.

Aalim dancers practice for hours, but belly dancers told News 9 it never feels like work.

"It's just feels like hanging out with your friends," said Amar.

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Red Dirt Diaries: Oklahoma Belly Dancers Win Competition

Class B semifinals: Huntley Project heads to Bigfork

None of Class Bs four remaining teams reached the semifinal round last year. In fact, Bigfork was the only one to advance past the first round in 2013.

We didnt get too excited, because we still want to keep going and further our success, said Huntley Project Guy Croy after the Red Devils 21-7 win over Fairfield in the quarterfinal round. What an opportunity to go play in a semifinal and be one of the final teams to get a chance to go play football.

Huntley Project (11-0) makes the long trip to Bigfork for a showdown with the Vikings (9-1), who blanked Malta 41-0 last week. Since its season-opening loss to Choteau, Bigfork has outscored its opponents 413-34, shutting out four of its past five opponents.

The Vikings held Malta to just 117 yards of offense last week, compared to quarterback Josh Sandry accumulating 199 total yards himself for Bigfork. Sandry totaled three touchdowns two rushing and one passing and Vinny Quirk added two more on the ground.

Croy said Bigfork is a big, physical team that will match up well with the Red Devils. Huntley Project forced five turnovers and held Fairfield to 30 yards rushing last week, but the defense will have its hands full with Sandry, one of the more dynamic players in the class. Sandry has committed to play safety at the University of Montana.

Offensively, Huntley Project will lean on its rushing attack led by Kian Brown. Brown has rushed for at least 100 yards nine times this season and is approaching 1,500 yards for the year. Michael Jobman and Tucker Hould figure to get carries throughout the game, especially as change-of-pace runners.

Conrad at Townsend

Conrad is making its first semifinal appearance since consecutive trips in 2002 and 2003. Conrad has only made one championship appearance, a 29-18 win over Frenchtown in 1994.

The Cowboys (8-2) got here by winning two road games in the playoffs, including last weeks 32-27 win over previously undefeated Glasgow. Quarterback Shane Larson accounted for 369 yards 246 rushing on 42 carries and had a hand in all five Cowboy touchdowns.

Larson and the Conrad offense will face one of the stingiest defenses in Class B when they travel to Townsend. The Bulldogs (9-1) have only allowed 35 points in their nine wins, an average of less than four points per game.

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Comment on The Red Pill or the Blue Pill? by ai tze

November 13, 2014

by William Leong Jee Keen

Morpheus: It is the world that has been pulled over your eyes to blind you from the truth.

Neo: What truth?

Morpheus That you are a slave, Neo. Like everyone else you were born into bondage. Into a prison that you cannot taste or see or touch. A prison for your mind.

Morpheus:This is your last chance. After this, there is no turning back. You take the blue pill the story ends, you wake up in your bed and believe whatever you want to believe. You take the red pill you stay in Wonderland and I show you how deep the rabbit-hole goes. (The Matrix)

Malaysians have taken the road of racism for 57 years because our minds have been imprisoned. A leader may show us a path to a better tomorrow but we will miss the turning if we cannot liberate ourselves from the prison of our minds. Only by choosing good over evil can we see the true path. The time for choosing has come.

He will not be silenced

After seven days hearing submissions from the defense and the prosecution, the five Federal Court Judges will decide whether to acquit or convict Anwar Ibrahim. If Anwar is convicted, he will be imprisoned for a term that will end his political career. The Opposition Leader said this is his final sacrifice, his last final service for Malaysians. He will not be silenced. But will Malaysians grasp the opportunity he paid for with his freedom?

Whether there are flying carpets, briyani suits and what happened to the missing KY jelly is for the court to decide. The target audience for the remake of the stage production of Sodomy I, updated by DNA forensic investigation replacing the old fashion mattress prop, is not the court. It is always the Malaysian public especially the Malay Muslims. The impresario, whoever he or she may be, thought Malaysians are either gullible or easily intimidated or both. Now Malaysians will show whether they are indeed a timid and feeble-minded audience or they are bold and resolute judges firmly punishing evil and rewarding the good. Malaysians will have to decide whether to take the red pill or the blue pill.

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Jennifer Lawrence Sets the Red Carpet on Fire at the Mockingjay World Premiere

Jennifer Lawrence, Julianne Moore, and Elizabeth Banks stunned on the red carpet at the world premiere of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 in London on Monday, and Jennifer later turned heads at the afterparty, too. The ladies were all smiles while posing for photos in their glamorous gowns; Julianne kept things sleek in a black long-sleeved number while Jennifer went for a white waterfall-hem Dior dress and Elizabeth turned it out in a truly incredible Elie Saab number. For the film's afterparty, Jennifer slipped into another white dress, this time with a plunging neckline, and Elizabeth changed into a strapless dress.

Josh Hutcherson also hit the red carpet with his costars despite battling a case of strep throat over the weekend both he and Jennifer came down with the bug, and Josh had to miss promo duties at a London photocall as well as an appearance on the German talk show Wetten, dass . . ? on Saturday. Also on hand for the big night were Donald Sutherland, Jena Malone, Natalie Dormer, Sam Claflin, and Lorde, who contributed three songs for the movie's soundtrack. Keep reading for photos from the world premiere of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1, and be sure to check out the fiery final trailer for the movie before its Nov. 21 release.

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Jennifer Lawrence Sets the Red Carpet on Fire at the Mockingjay World Premiere

'The Blacklist' Season 2 Spoilers: Who Died In The Fall Finale? Episode 8 Recap

Though The Blacklist was competing with Monday Night Football, after episode 8, The Decembrist, the NBC series will now be off until football is over. Nov. 10 was the fall finale of The Blacklist, which will return after the Super Bowl in February. However, there were some questions to answer first with Red (James Spader) revealing he had found Berlins (Peter Stormare) daughter in episode 7.

Episode 8 began by showing how Liz (Megan Boone) secretly saved Tom (Ryan Eggold) after he was shot in the Season 1 finale, and interrogated him for information about Berlin. The intense conversations lasted for weeks, bringing fans up to date with what we saw in the last episode.

Meanwhile, Berlin, realizing his daughter was alive, was confused about who had misinformed him. His daughter, Zoe (Scottie Thompson), on the other hand revealed that a man named the Decembrist had helped her flee to America to hide from her father (she was still not happy about things he had done in the past).

After Red told Liz that he was now working with Berlin, she was upset (to say the least), but he convinced her to help them find the Decembrist. Liz put the F.B.I. on the case and while they do not get permission to pursue the man (hes a high ranking Russian official), she passes the name on to Red who heads to Moscow with Berlin for some payback.

However, Liz has other things to worry about. A boating worker close to where she was keeping Tom stumbled upon her hideout and Liz was forced to take him prisoner. While deciding what to do, Tom kills the man trying to force her hand (believing she will not kill him) and get her to let him go.

In Moscow, Red and Berlin tracked down the Russian official they believed to be the Decembrist, but it turned out he was just a pawn. The Decembrist was actually Alan Fitch (Alan Alda). Red paid the NSA director a visit, angry that he had been lied to about Berlin. Red wanted to let Berlin take Fitch out, but he also knew he would be in danger without the protection he was under from their agreement. However, things got complicated when Berlin was able to kidnap Fitch.

Both frustrated, Red and Liz met where he she finally confessed to keeping Tom prisoner. Red was interested in Tom in order to find Berlin, who had gone underground after taking Fitch. Red needed to stop Berlin to keep himself safe.

Liz returned to the hideout to grill Tom, but he would only give her Berlin if she let him go. Liz finally agreed in exchange for the address Berlin was holding Fitch hostage. With the address, the F.B.I. barged in and found the missing NSA head, but he had a bomb attached to his neck.

While the F.B.I. worked to disassemble the bomb, Berlin got lunch with his daughter in an attempt to reconnect. However, Zoe was only leading Red to Berlin, who crashed the lunch (in a moment that almost made you feel bad for Berlin). Red demanded to know how to stop the bomb.

Back at the F.B.I. black site, Fitch asked to see Red. Red showed up with the bad news that there was no way to disarm the bomb. Fitch told Red that there would be a chain reaction from his death with people no longer afraid to come after Red anymore. He wanted assurance from Red that Red still had the fulcrum -- but what could the fulcrum be? He also gave Red the combination to a safe, but the bomb went off before he could give the exact location.

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'The Blacklist' Season 2 Spoilers: Who Died In The Fall Finale? Episode 8 Recap

The Hunger Games: MockingjayPart 1 World Premiere Kicks Off in LondonSee the Red Carpet Pics!

Ready your bows and arrows, the Hunger Games: MockingJayPart 1 world tour starts now!

The film's A-list cast is taking to the red carpet in London to kick off the film's world premiere tonight, and the stars are already hitting the bull's-eye in the style department.

Of course the Girl on Fire brought the heat to the red carpetyep, that's you, Jennifer Lawrence! The 24-year-old turned heads in a feminine, white high-low Dior gown with black floral details. But for Lawrence, comfort comes first, and that meant slipping a black tuxedo jacket on after her initial descent onto the red carpet to sign autographs. And hey, that's why Hollywood loves her!

NEWS: Katniss threatens Snow in The Hunger Games: MockingjayPart 1 final trailer, "Burn"

Elizabeth Banks strayed from her on-screen Capital style, picking an ultra-ethereal Elie Saab gown with a stunning red-to-gray, watercolor-printed fabric. She may not be the lead in the film, but whew, Banks is hands-down the principal style star of this red carpet. Talk about breathtaking!

The Hunger Games' newcomer Natalie Dormer delivered too, wearing a Nicholas Oakwell with an edgy sheer bodice and cobalt underlay. Noticeably missing thought? Her half-shaved hairstyle. Julianne Moore opted for a chic Balenciaga midi with sheer illusion-paneled sides, followed by fellow red head Jena Malone in a colorful white-and-yellow Emilia Wickstead gown.

And don't forget about The Hunger Games' resident heartthrobs, with a fully bearded Liam Hemsworth leading the hunky pack. Josh Hutchinson and Sam Claflin weren't far behind, with Claflin sporting a red remembrance poppy on his maroon suit ahead of the U.K.'s Remembrance Day (and the U.S.' Veterans Day) tomorrow. Also sporting the sweet tokens were Dormer and Malone.

So what are you waiting for? Check out the red-hot arrivals at The Hunger Games: MockingjayPart 1 world premiere now!

PHOTOS: The Hunger Games: MockingjayPart 1 red carpet arrivals

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Why the New York Red Bulls Can Win the MLS Cup

The New York Red Bulls have never been able to do it. The MetroStars could not do it either. With a franchise cursed for nearly 20 years, what makes this season different?

With Saturday's 2-1 loss at D.C. United, the Red Bulls advanced to the Conference finals for the first time since 2008. In all likelihood, this sets the Red Bulls up for a showdown with the New England Revolution in the MLS final four.

That means with three positive results, the Red Bulls could take home the MLS title for the first time in the history of the club. Though the franchise's history in the playoffs is less than stellar (to put it kindly), there is a different feel with this group; this year's New York Red Bulls can win the MLS Cup.

Though New York had a rough first half of the season, in the second half of the season and the playoffs, four things have emerged that suggest the Red Bulls can go all the way.

Tactical Change

In New York's first 25 regular season matches, the club only managed three clean sheets. The Red Bulls were notand are nota spectacular defensive team. But the team's defensive record up to that point was acceptable.

In the Red Bulls' 26th regular-season match, manager Mike Petke sent his team out in a different formation to the one he had used previously.

Gone was the 4-4-2 that carried the team to the Supporters' Shield in 2013. Rather, against 2013's MLSchampions, Sporting KC, Petke's men lined up in a 4-2-3-1.

On September 6, Eric Alexander and Dax McCarty lined up as holding central midfielders behind an attacking-midfield three of Lloyd Sam on the right, Peguy Luyindula in the middle, and Thierry Henry on the left. The Red Bulls won 2-1.

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Why the New York Red Bulls Can Win the MLS Cup

Happy Birthday, Kendall Jenner! Look Back at Her Best Red Carpet Momentsand a Few Runway Styles Too!

by Lindsey Sirera Mon., Nov. 3, 2014 9:44 AM PST

With a hugely successful modeling career already tucked under her belt, it's hard to believe that Kendall Jenner is only turning 19 today! And to help the budding supermodel celebrate, we're rewinding through her best red carpet hits yet.

Back in 2013, Kendall crushed the AMA red carpet in sultry white Keepsake cutout top and asymmetrical skirt combo. Paired with ultra-sleek straight hair and a Dylanex silver statement necklace, Kendall proved that she was a natural styling pro.

Recall the E! star's 2014 Met Gala gown? We don't know what's more shocking herethat her drool-worthy champagne gown is by Topshop, or that this was her first Met Gala ever. Because really, girl looks like a red carpet regular in this exquisite ensemble.

NEWS: Kendall Jenner's and Bruce Jenner's birthday gifts revealed

Kendall turned more than a few heads at the 2014 MuchMusic Awards when she wore a racy, hip-bone-baring Fausto Puglisi gown. It may have been her most daring look yet, and it so paid off.

Even on the Cannes Film Festival red carpet earlier this year, Kendall earned her best-dressed title in an edgy monochromatic Chanel dress. And just when we were getting used to Kendall's posh gownsbam! She shook up her normal red carpet style with a razor-sharp Alon Livne mesh top and high-waisted trousers combo at the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards.

PHOTOS: Kendall Jenner's Runway Shows

And while her red carpet style is impeccable, it's her red-hot runway looks that are really eye-catching. Yep, the Keeping Up With the Kardashians star took over New York Fashion Week this fall, popping up on the A-grade runways of Diane von Furstenberg, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs and Tommy Hilfiger. But she didn't stop thereMilan and Paris' fashion weeks were also on the in-demand models busy schedule. From feisty jeweled Dolce & Gabbana frocks to scandalous, skin-baring Balmain designs, the 19-year-old proved that she's a model force to be reckoned with.

After a whirlwind year of dominating red carpets and runways across the globe, we'd say the brunette beauty deserves a little rest and relaxation on her birthday. Enjoy your big day, Kendall!

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2014 CMA Awards Red Carpet Arrivals: See Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert & More!

It's that time again, y'all!

Celebs are flocking to the 2014 CMA Awards red carpet, and attendees areserving up their A-game for country music's biggest night.

As for who we're dying to see that? That's obviously Carrie Underwood, who's hosting the event alongside fellow country heartthrob Brad Paisley. The newly-pregnant singer is never disappoints in the style department, and we're eager to see the gown she's picked to accommodate her growing bump.

Miranda Lambert will be turning heads at the CMAs too, and will no doubt showcase her svelte figure in a drool-worthy gown. And let's not forget about the newest country music's newest actress-turned-singer, Lucy Hale. The Pretty Little Liars star just chopped her longer locks into a shorter do ahead of tonight's big show, and we're eager to see how the country music rookie will style her new hairstyle.

NEWS:Lucy Hale gets a haircut hours before the 2014 CMA Awards

And that's not allwe're crossing out fingers (and toes!) that Taylor Swift makes another leggy red carpet appearance tonight. Plus, Connie Britton, Ariana Grande and Kellie Pickler will all be on-site to heat up the awards show.

So what are you waiting for? Check out the 2014 CMAs arrivals gallery below!

PHOTOS: See the 2014 CMA Awards red carpet arrivals

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Penn football heads to Princeton with upset on its mind

With disappointment swirling around Penn football and its conference record, the squad has upset on its collective mind.

The Red and Blues matchup with rival Princeton on Saturday represents an opportunity for the Quakers to bury some of the frustration that has largely defined the transitioning teams season.

The task will be far from easy for the Red and Blue (1-6, 1-3 Ivy), however, as the Tigers team they face will be fighting to keep its Ivy League title hopes alive.

Princeton(4-3, 3-1), tied with Yale and Dartmouth in the Ivy standings behind undefeated Harvard, bounced back from a lopsided loss to the Crimson with a 38-27 win over Cornell last weekend.

The Tigers third-ranked offense boasts a pair of talented quarterbacks in seniors Connor Michelsen and Quinn Epperly .

Michelsen has seen the majority of snaps behind center as of late, an opportunity he has taken advantage of.

In Princetons last two wins,over Cornell and Brown, Michelson threw for a combined 648 yards and six touchdowns.

Overall, Michelsen has been more efficient and less mistake-prone than Epperly this season.

Its likely that the Tigers will roll with the hot hand this Saturday against Penn, but Epperly, who is a strong runner, is always a change-of-pace threat.

When they have [Epperly] in the game, they tend to run him more than they would run [Michelson], coach Al Bagnoli said. You have to prepare for the same passing attack its a lefty [Epperly]/righty [Michelsen] combination but in the run game is where you see the big difference.

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Penn football heads to Princeton with upset on its mind