from which story is the question is from??
Metaphor in "Ribbon of moonlight"
A "popular press source" in general refers to any news publication, either on paper or online, that has a wide circulation and is popular. Although this doesn't always mean that it is reputable.
Marries Is a Linking Verb
If the talented voleyball player were to accept the revised terms, she could sign the scholarship offer today.
<u>"Were to" is generally used to highlight that the conditional form that has been used presents a hypothetical situation that is highly unlikely to happen.</u> Therefore, "were to" emphasizes the improbability of the condition. In the case of this specific sentence, it is unlikely that the talented voleyball player will accept the revised terms and; therefore, sign the scholarship offer today.