Littlebike,
I have both the canon 24-85 USM 3.5 and the Sigma 17-35mm HSM 2.8 lenses. I have many shots with both and they are quite comparable. I do believe the 2.8 is a better lens because of the fact it IS a 2.8. However, after seeing shots taken with the "L" series lenses, I think my next set of lenses will ALL be "L's!" I know they are expensive, but after all, we are all striving for the "perfect" shot and a cheap lens just won't do it. I have taken many shots of our mockingbirds for instance, and there is a post of one in almost the exact same circumstances as I have taken...down to the exact EXIF info. The only difference is that that particular shot was done with an "L" lens and there is just NO comparison. The big problem with this is that 1 or 2 "L" lenses will set you back as much as the camera body itself!!! It just depends on the quality you really want and I've seen a lot of posts stating that you WILL eventually migrate to the "L" series so why waste extra money in the meantime? I've always thought this was easy to say if you HAVE the money to plop down for an "L" but now I see why they say that. I went from a Minolta Dimage7hi which I thought took spectacular shots and realized it was a toy compared to the EOS digitals. Now I can see why the "L" series is so much better than my mediocre standard lenses. I am a perfectionist and if someone's shots are always "better" than mine, it gets my blood boiling to figure out why. In almost EVERY case, it is because the "L" lens was used, BOTOM LINE!
With that said, I would go for a 2.8 lens simply because you have more capability in lower light and telephoto situations. If you get a Sigma, make sure you get one with the HSM motor. That is equivalent to the Canon USM motor and is extremely quiet.
Good luck with your decision...
Patrick