‘Monday Night Football’ kicks off

Mon., Aug. 9, 2004

Joel Brown New York Times Syndicate

update

More listings

» We're making some changes to the TV listings page beginning today.

» Trivia master L.M. Boyd has retired for a second (and presumably final) time, so his column that previously ran under the crossword puzzle is no longer available. In its place, we've expanded our listings grid to include seven of the most popular cable channels that weren't previously listed:

» • Animal Planet (ANIML)

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» Court TV (COURT)

» Fox Movie Channel (FMC)

» Food Network (FOOD)

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» The VH1 music channel

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If you’re sick of summer, this will be good news.

But if you’re not — well, don’t blame me.

Tonight at 5 ABC begins its 35th season of “Monday Night Football” with the 42nd annual Hall of Fame Game from Canton, Ohio.

The big story should be head coach Joe Gibbs returning to the Washington Redskins as they face the Denver Broncos.

This traditional opener of the NFL’s preseason will also mark the return to the airwaves of the commentating team of Al Michaels and John Madden.

They’ll be joined by new sideline reporter Michele Tafoya, a veteran of the NBA playoffs.

Highlights

“Still Standing,” CBS at 8: St. Patrick’s Day brings opportunities for ill-fated parent-child bonding. Repeat.

“North Shore,” Fox at 8: OK, pay close attention now.

Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray helps cheer up Nicole the day after she left her fiance, Morgan, at the altar and discovers the truth about Jason and Tessa.

But does she know the whole story?

What are Jason’s feelings for her? How does Tessa feel about Jason? Is anyone running the hotel?

“Fear Factor,” NBC at 8: Repeating the conclusion of the couples contest.

“Yes, Dear,” CBS at 8:30: Director Kevin Smith — what has he done for us lately? — guests in a repeat that finds Jimmy opening his big mouth at a Hollywood premiere.

“Everybody Loves Raymond,” CBS at 9: Robert and Amy offer Ray and Debra tips on having a successful marriage.

Needless to say, this is not well received. Repeat.

“Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy,” Fox at 9: Mrs. Bowers from Westfield, Mass., and Mrs. Pilek of Aliso Viejo, Calif., trade places in this repeat from the other night.

“For Love or Money,” NBC at 9: The contest climaxes as the winner must choose the babe or the money.

“Summerland,” WB at 9: Repeat. Johnny realizes his true feelings for Ava.

“Two and a Half Men,” CBS at 9:30: Charlie the jingle writer agrees to direct Jake’s school musical.

You can guess the rest.

A funny repeat.

“CSI: Miami,” CBS at 10: A horrible death in the pits at the local grand prix.

Family Fare

“7th Heaven,” WB at 8: Repeat. Michelle Phillips guests as Annie’s half-sister, who wants their father to walk her down the aisle even though he’s ailing.

And there are all sorts of other marriage-related issues going on.

Cable Cast

Little League Baseball, ESPN at 5: Regional finals leading up to the World Series.

“Bend It Like Beckham” (2002), HBO at 8: Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley star in the tale of a young soccer hopeful who must keep her skills hidden from her traditional family.

“Growing Up Gotti,” A&E at 9:30: The Dapper Don’s daughter, Victoria, sees a nutritionist.

This show was such a success on its debut last week that A&E already has made a deal for more episodes.

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