1.   Alexander predicts there will be appeals before the trial even starts on the interpretation of the evidence.

2.   Either way, those on both sides concede most voters already know how they feel about such issues before the campaigning even starts.

3.   From a distance, it appears the Patriots are getting a lot of breaks before the season even starts.

4.   It would be challenging enough to defend the CART FedEx Series championship, but Team Penske is upping the ante before the season even starts.

5.   Some clues may be available before the exam even starts, Mitchell said.

6.   Though skiers and snowboarders often complain of pricey lift tickets and equipment rentals, the real robbery takes place before the trip even starts.

7.   Young America established a clear lead five minutes after an almost even start.

8.   Ribe is the second athlete in two days to be thrown off an Olympic delegation before the Games even start and Italian high jumper Antonella Bevilacqua could follow.