There are seemingly new roadblocks posed every day by Covid, necessitating many eleventh-hour decisions and bringing forth a lot of Plan Bs, or even further down the alphabet. Each state and country has individual protocols, giving the sports world a neverending series of hurdles to jump before events can be played. The NFL has had over 600 players out with Covid or under protocols since December 1, and the Super Bowl is scheduled to be played at SoFi Stadium in February. Will the Covid surge be down enough for LA to host it, or does the backup plan of a stadium in another state look more likely? Have college basketball teams had enough playing time to make the NCAA Tournament a reality? Canada is not currently allowing indoor professional sporting events – should the US follow their lead and go to all outdoor sports?

Novak Djokovic is suing for the right to compete in the Australian Open, claiming a medical exemption after being detained due to his vaccination status. Australia has strict Covid protocols, not only for athletes but for anyone entering their country. What are his chances for being allowed to vie for a 10th title there this year?

Why did Tampa Bay fire Antonio Brown in the middle of a game? Did the Buccaneers release him over an injured ankle or is there more to the story?

It’s voting time for the NFL MVP, and Aaron Rodgers is in the running. He’s had a tremendous season, but will sportswriters consider other issues when they cast their votes?

Email Fred and Art with questions and comments at sportsfred@aol.com