SI.com's 10 most popular stories from the week ending Nov. 7

Here is a roundup of SI.com's 10 most popular stories this week. Be sure to read to the bottom for a bonus story from the SI Vault.

Here is a roundup of SI.com's 10 most popular stories this week. Be sure to read to the bottom for a bonus story from the SI Vault.

Dream again

Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

Isaiah Austin was projected to be a first-round pick until he was diagnosed with Marfan syndrome five days before the NBA draft. The diagnosis ended his basketball career, but four months later, during a time that could’ve been the start of his NBA journey, he’s learning to dream again. By David Gardner.

Spotlight on Barrett

Jamie Sabau/Getty Images

Before the start of the season, Ohio State’s J.T. Barrett was satisfied with becoming the second-string quarterback. But the redshirt freshman has unexpectedly stepped into a new position as the starter, and it’s proving to be a good fit. By Brian Hamilton.

From the World Series to Star Wars

Octavian Cantilli for SI

David Eckstein chose not to continue his 10-year career in the MLB in order to pursue another venture, one filled with Star Wars, Doctor Who and Marvel. How the former World Series MVP and his wife created a multimillion-dollar business, despite being the underdogs. By Albert Chen.

The Lakers without Kobe?

Christian Petersen/NBAE/Getty Images

Kobe Bryant has played his entire career with the Los Angeles Lakers. But as his 19th season gets off to an unsatisfactory start, is it time to consider trading him?By Chris Mannix.

Breaking the mold

Greg Nelson/SI

In his third year at Oklahoma, Eric Striker has become the centerpiece of the team’s defense. How a restless kid from Tampa turned into a formidable linebacker and an NFL draft prospect. By Ben Glicksman.

An impressive improvement

Ezra Shaw/Getty Images

NBA players rarely change how they play, but Golden State Warriors shooting guard Klay Thompson has found a way to improve his game. By Phil Taylor.

Introducing Joe Maddon

David Banks/Getty Images

The Chicago Cubs’ hiring of GM Joe Maddon brings about restored hope and new possibilities for a talented young roster. “Wait ‘til next year” may finally start to take on a new meaning. By Tom Verducci.

NFL midseason predictions

Doug Pensinger/Getty Images

It’s Week 10 in the NFL, and our experts are forecasting the remainder of the season as they preview upcoming games, predict which teams miss the playoffs and make their Super Bowl picks. 

Back in the game

Charley Gallay/Getty Images

Mia Hamm remains the biggest U.S. soccer star even 10 years after her retirement. She now returns to the game in two new roles: a member of AS Roma’s board of directors and a minority owner of the new Los Angeles Football Club. By Grant Wahl.

Growing pains

Andrew D. Bernstein/NBAE via Getty Images

The hype of the offseason has given way to reality as LeBron and the Cavs are looking like a 1-3 team that needs to work out some kinks. By Rob Mahoney.

SI Vault: The 2004 Red Sox

Julie Cordeiro/Boston Red Sox/AP

This story -- one of 60 iconic stories being republished, in full, in honor of Sports Illustrated's 60th anniversary -- is about the 2004 Boston Red Sox's epic World Series win and what it meant for their fans. By Tom Verducci.