Leaf pleads guilty in Mont.

Football: Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf (pictured above) pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges that he broke into a Montana home and illegally possessed painkillers, part of a deal with prosecutors that recommends he spend nine months in a secure drug treatment facility.

The former San Diego Chargers quarterback and Washington State standout told Cascade County District Judge Kenneth Neill that he needed treatment.

It was one of the few statements Leaf made in the hearing under questioning by his attorney, Kenneth Olson. Leaf admitted that he broke into a home on April 1. He then admitted that on March 28 he illegally possessed oxycodone not prescribed to him.

Leaf pleaded guilty to one count each of felony burglary and criminal possession of a dangerous drug. Under the agreement, County Attorney John Parker agreed to dismiss two other counts of burglary and drug possession.

Neill set sentencing for June 19. Parker and Olson are recommending a five-year sentence.

Associated Press

Pirates start on the road

Football: Whitworth announced its schedule for the 2012-13 season, which starts with three straight road games.

The Pirates’ season opener will be against St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minn. From there, Whitworth will play at Whittier and La Verne. The Pirates will play their home opener Sept. 22 against Chapman.

The homecoming game is Oct. 6 against Willamette.

Complete 2012-13 schedule, Page B6