• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, September 4, 2007

ESPN's would-be "60 Minutes" for the sports world will carry a title with the same number: "E:60." The network, however, said its origins lie elsewhere.

Unlike "60 Minutes," the ESPN news magazine will run periodically, debuting just before prime time at 7 p.m. on Oct. 16 and running on Tuesdays for the ensuing three weeks. The remainder of its 15 episodes a season will run in April and June 2008.

ESPN said "E:60" is a takeoff of its 360 concept, which reflects the "show's philosophy to approach its storytelling from all angles." The network operates the video-rich ESPN360.com site.

The show's content, comprised of investigative reports and profiles, will also echo HBO's "Real Sports," although the network said it will have an added focus on the reporters' pursuing stories.