I apologize for the lack of a blog yesterday. An early morning dental appointment and the day job got in the way.
The Dallas Morning News has the official numbers on the huge contract Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo signed on Tuesday.
Some may argue that after only a season's worth of starts and zero playoff wins on his resume, Romo isn't worthy of a contract of that size. That if you take away Terrell Owens (who won't be around forever), Tony Romo becomes a fairly average quarterback.
I say that's ridiculous. Oakland gave JaMarcus Russell a similar contract in terms of total value and guaranteed money less than two months ago, all of which are based on expected future performance. Well, hasn't Romo shown enough to earn a similar contract?
At 27 years old, Romo can reasonably be expected to play at his current level for the duration of this contract. With the manner in which the salary cap has been increasing, an $11.5 million dollar salary for a marquee veteran quarterback could well be a bargain in 2013.
And as long Romo is hanging out with the likes of Britney Spears, that $30M is going to be needed for a good PR staff and Valtrex.
Around the NFL
The Philadelphia Eagles director of ticket client relations is on this year's Hall of Fame ballot.
According to Arthur Staple of Newsday, the MVP of the New York Giants defense has been Justin Tuck.
With Carlos Rogers done for the season, Washington Redskins cornerback Leigh Torrence is now the third cornerback.
CBS Analyst Bill Cowher thinks that if the New England Patriots continue to keep Tom Brady in games where they have a big lead, someone is going to take a cheap shot.
Ethan Skolnick of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel suggests Miami Dolphins head coach and offensive play-caller Cam Cameron may be spreading himself too thin.
Wide receiver Laveranues Coles and linebacker David Harris are the New York Jets' MVPs at the midway point of the season.
Detroit Lions quarterback Jon Kitna went as "naked Joe Cullen" to a charity Halloween party, and it has some questioning his judgment.
Minnesota Vikings safety Darren Sharper should be worried about the tight end he'll face this weekend.
The Green Bay Packers activated wide receiver Koren Robinson on Tuesday.
Dropped passes and an inability to score points off turnovers are hampering the Chicago Bears.
Baltimore Ravens rookie return man Yamon Figurs is trying to clear a mental hurdle.
Veteran linebacker Dhani Jones has helped stabilized the Cincinnati Bengals special teams.
The Pittsburgh Steelers released cornerback and special teamer Ricardo Colclough.
Each time the Cleveland Browns have beaten the Seattle Seahawks, they've advanced to the playoffs.
The Atlanta Falcons have a little more than 24 hours to sell 3,000 tickets to avoid a local TV blackout.
Despite his team's three-game win streak, New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton thinks his team still has a lot to improve upon.
Which banged up Carolina Panthers quarterback will get the start this week?
The injury bug in Tampa Bay has spread to the special teams.
Free agent defensive tackle Grady Jackson signed a 1-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Tuesday.
Tennessee Titans rookie safety Michael Griffin is in the starting lineup, and he has teammate Courtland Finnegan to thank for it.
Five lucky Indianapolis Colts fans will leave the December 2nd home game against Jacksonville with an authentic Super Bowl ring.
The part of his NFL debut that Houston Texans running back Adimchinobe Echemandu liked the least? His pulled hamstring.
The mediocre NFC is good for the Arizona Cardinals.
St. Louis Rams head coach Scott Linehan is giving the Rams the day off today.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback went back to school on Tuesday.
With starting receivers DJ Hackett and Deion Branch set to return, the role of "Great Play Nate" Burleson is about to change.
The problem in Denver: Scoring points.
The name of Kansas City Chiefs legendary linebacker Derrick Thomas is on the Pro Football Hall of Fame ballot for the 4th time.
Wide receiver Mike Williams, a former first round pick by the Detroit Lions, was cut by the Oakland Raiders on Tuesday.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Monday, October 29, 2007
Did Belichick Cross the Line?
Les Carpenter of the Washington Post asks if the New England Patriots cross the line yesterday in their win over the Washington Redskins?
It's a pretty good question to ask, and something I'm sure will be discussed at length as we head towards the "Game of the Century" on November 4th. (And by "Game of the Century" I do mean the 49ers-Falcons game)
On the one hand, I think the responsibility to stop the New England Patriots offense falls squarely on opposing defenses. Supporters of Bill Belichick will say "Why should it be up the Patriots to take their foot off the gas late in the game?", and it's awfully hard to argue against them.
Then again, isn't it pretty dumb for Belichick to have Tom Brady running QB sneaks on 4th and 1 when they're already up 38-0 in the 4th quarter? That play call yesterday was classless, which for Bill Belichick, simply makes it par for the course.
A middle ground does exist, and yesterday the Patriots were nowhere near it. When you're up 38-0 in the 4th quarter in a non-conference game in October, and kicking the chip-shot field to go up by 41 is an absurd thought, give the ball to Kyle Eckel or Heath Evans, Junior Seau or Mike Vrabel, or have Matt Cassell run the sneak.
Play calls like that send messages to the rest of the NFL. It says to the other 31 teams that the Patriots are no longer satisfied with simply winning the game, they're going to destroy your spirit and are not afraid to expose the only irreplaceable player on their roster to do it.
I hope it doesn't happen, but at some point, one of their opponents is going cross another line in response to that message and a certain guy who smells like Stetson and supermodel could be the recipient.
NFL Links
The Patriots defense wanted to prove a point yesterday.
Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour was able to knock some of the rust off against Washington.
Miami Dolphins rookie wide receiver Ted Ginn traveled far for the first touchdown of his NFL career.
The Dolphins defense played pretty well in London.
New York Jets head coach will evaluate his team's quarterback situation today.
The Jets downward spiral continues.
The New York Giants offense had another "Tiki Who?" performance.
Yesterday's Dolphins-Giants game featured an appearance by serial streaker Mark Roberts, who struck again at halftime.
According to one of his former coaches, the reported demise of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb "is much exaggerated".
A fractured tailbone couldn't keep Eagles tackle Jon Runyan out of the lineup.
The Washington Redskins lost a pair of cornerbacks on Sunday.
Albert Breer of the Dallas Morning News writes that the Cowboys' Class of '07 will be tied to how Brady Quinn does elsewhere.
The Cleveland Browns lost a pair of linebackers to injuries in Sunday's win.
Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards dedicated yesterday's game to a recently deceased 15-year old boy.
The Cincinnati Bengals couldn't get it done in the red zone yesterday.
The Bengals have lost their confidence.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Willie Parker continued to run wild in Paul Brown Stadium.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette grades the Steelers effort yesterday.
The Baltimore Ravens enter the second half of the season with something to prove.
The Chicago Bears blew a chance to get back into the playoff race before their bye week.
Rick Telander of the Chicago Sun-Times writes that the Bears are done for 2007 and wonders what's up with Brian Urlacher.
The Philadelphia Eagles shut down the Minnesota Vikings' prized rookie.
Sid Hartman of the Star Tribune thinks quarterback Brooks Bollinger deserves a chance to start for the Vikings.
This Halloween, the Detroit Lions will be dressed as playoff contenders.
Lions rookie wide receiver Calvin Johnson aggravated his lower-back injury.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel previews tonight's Packers-Broncos game.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington is still a hero in Eugene, Oregon.
The release of nose tackle Grady Jackson will be just the start of the housecleaning in Atlanta.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Vinny Testaverde injured his foot on Sunday and couldn't finish the game.
Has anyone seen Steve Smith lately?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were undone by the one thing they thought quarterback Jeff Garcia wouldn't let happen.
Gary Shelton of the St. Petersburg Times writes that the Buccaneers are moving backwards at the midway point.
The New Orleans Saints, who started the season 0-4, are now just one game back in the NFC South.
The injury to Reggie Bush's ribs isn't serious.
According to running back Fred Taylor, Jacksonville's 24-23 win was "the best team effort" he's been a part of.
Jaguars cornerback Aaron Glenn now has an interception in 13 straight seasons.
Houston Texans long snapper Bryan Pittman launched the first bad snap of his career.
Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson spent $10,000 for tickets for yesterday's game.
Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai found the end zone three times in yesterday's route of the Carolina Panthers.
The Colts are clear to start talking about next Sunday's "Game of the Century".
Tennessee Titans running back LenDale White set a career-high for rushing yards on Sunday.
It's been awhile since an opponent has scored a touchdown against the Titans at LP Field.
The Denver Broncos have added some youthful energy to the defense.
His numbers may not reflect it, but Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard has kept the offense from collapsing.
San Diego Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie accomplished something on Sunday that no Chargers player had done in over 40 years.
The San Diego area needed a boost on Sunday.
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Mike Williams asked for the ball...then dropped it.
Raiders tackle Barry Sims' name appears quite frequently on the list of penalties Oakland committed yesterday.
Ann Killion of The Mercury News opines that the San Francisco 49ers may be ruining quarterback Alex Smith.
49ers kicker Joe Nedney flipped off the 49ers fans. Profootballtalk.com has the image right here.
Back spasms put St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson back on the shelf late in the 1st quarter against Cleveland. Also within that same article, there's word that Richie Incognito, a player who has been accused of dirty play more than once this season, could be lost for the year a torn patella tendon in his knee.
After starting well, the Rams defense was gashed in the middle of the game.
It's a pretty good question to ask, and something I'm sure will be discussed at length as we head towards the "Game of the Century" on November 4th. (And by "Game of the Century" I do mean the 49ers-Falcons game)
On the one hand, I think the responsibility to stop the New England Patriots offense falls squarely on opposing defenses. Supporters of Bill Belichick will say "Why should it be up the Patriots to take their foot off the gas late in the game?", and it's awfully hard to argue against them.
Then again, isn't it pretty dumb for Belichick to have Tom Brady running QB sneaks on 4th and 1 when they're already up 38-0 in the 4th quarter? That play call yesterday was classless, which for Bill Belichick, simply makes it par for the course.
A middle ground does exist, and yesterday the Patriots were nowhere near it. When you're up 38-0 in the 4th quarter in a non-conference game in October, and kicking the chip-shot field to go up by 41 is an absurd thought, give the ball to Kyle Eckel or Heath Evans, Junior Seau or Mike Vrabel, or have Matt Cassell run the sneak.
Play calls like that send messages to the rest of the NFL. It says to the other 31 teams that the Patriots are no longer satisfied with simply winning the game, they're going to destroy your spirit and are not afraid to expose the only irreplaceable player on their roster to do it.
I hope it doesn't happen, but at some point, one of their opponents is going cross another line in response to that message and a certain guy who smells like Stetson and supermodel could be the recipient.
NFL Links
The Patriots defense wanted to prove a point yesterday.
Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour was able to knock some of the rust off against Washington.
Miami Dolphins rookie wide receiver Ted Ginn traveled far for the first touchdown of his NFL career.
The Dolphins defense played pretty well in London.
New York Jets head coach will evaluate his team's quarterback situation today.
The Jets downward spiral continues.
The New York Giants offense had another "Tiki Who?" performance.
Yesterday's Dolphins-Giants game featured an appearance by serial streaker Mark Roberts, who struck again at halftime.
According to one of his former coaches, the reported demise of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb "is much exaggerated".
A fractured tailbone couldn't keep Eagles tackle Jon Runyan out of the lineup.
The Washington Redskins lost a pair of cornerbacks on Sunday.
Albert Breer of the Dallas Morning News writes that the Cowboys' Class of '07 will be tied to how Brady Quinn does elsewhere.
The Cleveland Browns lost a pair of linebackers to injuries in Sunday's win.
Browns wide receiver Braylon Edwards dedicated yesterday's game to a recently deceased 15-year old boy.
The Cincinnati Bengals couldn't get it done in the red zone yesterday.
The Bengals have lost their confidence.
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Willie Parker continued to run wild in Paul Brown Stadium.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette grades the Steelers effort yesterday.
The Baltimore Ravens enter the second half of the season with something to prove.
The Chicago Bears blew a chance to get back into the playoff race before their bye week.
Rick Telander of the Chicago Sun-Times writes that the Bears are done for 2007 and wonders what's up with Brian Urlacher.
The Philadelphia Eagles shut down the Minnesota Vikings' prized rookie.
Sid Hartman of the Star Tribune thinks quarterback Brooks Bollinger deserves a chance to start for the Vikings.
This Halloween, the Detroit Lions will be dressed as playoff contenders.
Lions rookie wide receiver Calvin Johnson aggravated his lower-back injury.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel previews tonight's Packers-Broncos game.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Joey Harrington is still a hero in Eugene, Oregon.
The release of nose tackle Grady Jackson will be just the start of the housecleaning in Atlanta.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Vinny Testaverde injured his foot on Sunday and couldn't finish the game.
Has anyone seen Steve Smith lately?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were undone by the one thing they thought quarterback Jeff Garcia wouldn't let happen.
Gary Shelton of the St. Petersburg Times writes that the Buccaneers are moving backwards at the midway point.
The New Orleans Saints, who started the season 0-4, are now just one game back in the NFC South.
The injury to Reggie Bush's ribs isn't serious.
According to running back Fred Taylor, Jacksonville's 24-23 win was "the best team effort" he's been a part of.
Jaguars cornerback Aaron Glenn now has an interception in 13 straight seasons.
Houston Texans long snapper Bryan Pittman launched the first bad snap of his career.
Texans defensive tackle Travis Johnson spent $10,000 for tickets for yesterday's game.
Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai found the end zone three times in yesterday's route of the Carolina Panthers.
The Colts are clear to start talking about next Sunday's "Game of the Century".
Tennessee Titans running back LenDale White set a career-high for rushing yards on Sunday.
It's been awhile since an opponent has scored a touchdown against the Titans at LP Field.
The Denver Broncos have added some youthful energy to the defense.
His numbers may not reflect it, but Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Damon Huard has kept the offense from collapsing.
San Diego Chargers cornerback Antonio Cromartie accomplished something on Sunday that no Chargers player had done in over 40 years.
The San Diego area needed a boost on Sunday.
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Mike Williams asked for the ball...then dropped it.
Raiders tackle Barry Sims' name appears quite frequently on the list of penalties Oakland committed yesterday.
Ann Killion of The Mercury News opines that the San Francisco 49ers may be ruining quarterback Alex Smith.
49ers kicker Joe Nedney flipped off the 49ers fans. Profootballtalk.com has the image right here.
Back spasms put St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson back on the shelf late in the 1st quarter against Cleveland. Also within that same article, there's word that Richie Incognito, a player who has been accused of dirty play more than once this season, could be lost for the year a torn patella tendon in his knee.
After starting well, the Rams defense was gashed in the middle of the game.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
NFL GameDay News and Notes - Week 8
The Indianapolis Colts will be without wide receiver Marvin Harrison and linebacker Freddie Keiaho this afternoon.
Colts backup quarterback Jim Sorgi signed a 3-year extension.
Stan Olson of the Charlotte Observer has three things to watch in today's Colts-Panthers game.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Mike Furrey does a lot of charity work.
The two guys covering the Lions for the Detroit Free Press are predicting a Lions loss today.
The alarm is ringing on Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson's career.
Paul Brown Stadium has been a home away from home for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette breaks down today's Steelers-Bengals game.
Remember this, Bengals fans: Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is one of you.
John Jeansonne of Newsday writes that while everyone is talking about how jetlagged the New York Giants are going to be after a 5+ hour flight, other teams (like the Seattle Seahawks) routinely make flights that long several times a season with no fuss.
Londoners are curious about American football.
The Philadelphia Eagles offensive line hasn't been healthy this season.
The Eagles and Minnesota Vikings have yet to replace a pair of star receivers.
Brad Childress and Andy Reid are buddies, just not this week.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Derek Anderson and left tackle Joe Thomas are best of friends on and off the field.
The St. Louis Rams will start their sixth offensive line combination of the season against Cleveland.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has five things to watch in today's Rams-Browns game.
A win over Tennessee could delay the "wait 'til next year" talk in Oakland.
The Tennessee Titans defense expects to to dominate.
Did quarterback JP Losman get a fair shot in Buffalo?
The injury to New York Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma is not career-threatening.
Can Jets fans remember the optimism?
A struggling Texans run defense hopes to stop the NFL's reigning MVP.
Wide receiver Chris Chambers will make his Chargers debut today.
With a really good day today, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Fred Taylor could surpass 10,000 yards rushing for his career.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden has altered his offense to compensate for an inexperienced offensive line.
Washington Redskins linebacker London Fletcher is the leader on a rejuvenated Redskins defense.
The New England Patriots get defensive lineman Richard Seymour back today.
Could New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush repeat his breakout performance of 2006?
The San Francisco 49ers hope quarterback Alex Smith can spark the offense.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson is battling soreness as he returns from his suspension.
Denver Broncos running back Travis Henry and cornerback Champ Bailey will be game-time decisions on Monday.
Open Date Links
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt is a gadget guy.
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Bart Scott is just one of the Ravens' many radio guys.
There's not much to not like about Dallas Cowboys right now.
Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star has the Chiefs mid-season report card.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will be a happy guy when receivers Deion Branch and DJ Hackett return from injuries after the bye week.
Colts backup quarterback Jim Sorgi signed a 3-year extension.
Stan Olson of the Charlotte Observer has three things to watch in today's Colts-Panthers game.
Detroit Lions wide receiver Mike Furrey does a lot of charity work.
The two guys covering the Lions for the Detroit Free Press are predicting a Lions loss today.
The alarm is ringing on Chicago Bears running back Cedric Benson's career.
Paul Brown Stadium has been a home away from home for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette breaks down today's Steelers-Bengals game.
Remember this, Bengals fans: Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is one of you.
John Jeansonne of Newsday writes that while everyone is talking about how jetlagged the New York Giants are going to be after a 5+ hour flight, other teams (like the Seattle Seahawks) routinely make flights that long several times a season with no fuss.
Londoners are curious about American football.
The Philadelphia Eagles offensive line hasn't been healthy this season.
The Eagles and Minnesota Vikings have yet to replace a pair of star receivers.
Brad Childress and Andy Reid are buddies, just not this week.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Derek Anderson and left tackle Joe Thomas are best of friends on and off the field.
The St. Louis Rams will start their sixth offensive line combination of the season against Cleveland.
Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch has five things to watch in today's Rams-Browns game.
A win over Tennessee could delay the "wait 'til next year" talk in Oakland.
The Tennessee Titans defense expects to to dominate.
Did quarterback JP Losman get a fair shot in Buffalo?
The injury to New York Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma is not career-threatening.
Can Jets fans remember the optimism?
A struggling Texans run defense hopes to stop the NFL's reigning MVP.
Wide receiver Chris Chambers will make his Chargers debut today.
With a really good day today, Jacksonville Jaguars running back Fred Taylor could surpass 10,000 yards rushing for his career.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden has altered his offense to compensate for an inexperienced offensive line.
Washington Redskins linebacker London Fletcher is the leader on a rejuvenated Redskins defense.
The New England Patriots get defensive lineman Richard Seymour back today.
Could New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush repeat his breakout performance of 2006?
The San Francisco 49ers hope quarterback Alex Smith can spark the offense.
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson is battling soreness as he returns from his suspension.
Denver Broncos running back Travis Henry and cornerback Champ Bailey will be game-time decisions on Monday.
Open Date Links
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt is a gadget guy.
Baltimore Ravens linebacker Bart Scott is just one of the Ravens' many radio guys.
There's not much to not like about Dallas Cowboys right now.
Adam Teicher of the Kansas City Star has the Chiefs mid-season report card.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will be a happy guy when receivers Deion Branch and DJ Hackett return from injuries after the bye week.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
NFL News and Notes - October 27th, 2007
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Marvin Harrison will be a game-time decision on Sunday.
The Carolina Panthers will start 43-year old Vinny Testaverde against the reigning World Champs this weekend.
Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli has an interesting method of keeping the ball away from Chicago Bears return man Devin Hester.
It might not be this week, but Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher is close to returning from a groin injury.
As promised, the tight ends are playing a larger role in the Pittsburgh Steelers offense.
Cincinnati Bengals right tackle Willie Anderson will miss this Sunday's game against Pittsburgh with a knee injury.
The New York Giants are adjusting to the time change and jet lag associated with traveling overseas.
Running back Samkon Gado was claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins.
The Philadelphia Eagles defense is out to prove last week's meltdown was a fluke.
Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Marcus McCauley knows other teams are targeting him.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis is questionable for Sunday's game against St. Louis.
Not enough people will pass through the Edward Jones Dome's gates on Sunday, which is why the St. Louis Rams-Cleveland Browns game will be blacked out in the Gateway City.
Daunte Culpepper will get the start for the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.
The Tennessee Titans will wait until next week to address the gap at defensive tackle Corey Simon's retirement created.
Buffalo Bills rookie running back Marshawn Lynch is itching to get his first 100-yard game.
New York Jets rookie cornerback Darrelle Revis hopes to play better this time around against the Bills.
The decision isn't his, but Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub declared himself ready to play this Sunday.
The San Diego Chargers got the go-ahead to use Qualcomm Stadium tomorrow.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are hoping quarterback Quinn Gray can translate his copious note-taking ability into success on the field.
In Jovan Haye, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have finally found their long lost under tackle, the most critical position on their defense.
The Washington Redskins injury report is getting smaller.
New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel is earning the label of "shutdown corner".
The New Orleans Saints offensive line has improved every week.
Green Bay Packers tackles Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton are struggling with the zone blocking scheme.
Denver Broncos undrafted rookie running back Selvin Young is expected to start on Monday night.
"Open Date" Links
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is being sued for child support.
They're already looking ahead to the 2008 Draft in Atlanta.
Baltimore Ravens backup kicker Rhys Lloyd is enjoying playing behind Matt Stover.
Dallas Cowboys backup cornerback Nate Jones is developing a sitcom called "Jock Itch".
The Carolina Panthers will start 43-year old Vinny Testaverde against the reigning World Champs this weekend.
Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli has an interesting method of keeping the ball away from Chicago Bears return man Devin Hester.
It might not be this week, but Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher is close to returning from a groin injury.
As promised, the tight ends are playing a larger role in the Pittsburgh Steelers offense.
Cincinnati Bengals right tackle Willie Anderson will miss this Sunday's game against Pittsburgh with a knee injury.
The New York Giants are adjusting to the time change and jet lag associated with traveling overseas.
Running back Samkon Gado was claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins.
The Philadelphia Eagles defense is out to prove last week's meltdown was a fluke.
Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Marcus McCauley knows other teams are targeting him.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis is questionable for Sunday's game against St. Louis.
Not enough people will pass through the Edward Jones Dome's gates on Sunday, which is why the St. Louis Rams-Cleveland Browns game will be blacked out in the Gateway City.
Daunte Culpepper will get the start for the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.
The Tennessee Titans will wait until next week to address the gap at defensive tackle Corey Simon's retirement created.
Buffalo Bills rookie running back Marshawn Lynch is itching to get his first 100-yard game.
New York Jets rookie cornerback Darrelle Revis hopes to play better this time around against the Bills.
The decision isn't his, but Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub declared himself ready to play this Sunday.
The San Diego Chargers got the go-ahead to use Qualcomm Stadium tomorrow.
The Jacksonville Jaguars are hoping quarterback Quinn Gray can translate his copious note-taking ability into success on the field.
In Jovan Haye, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers may have finally found their long lost under tackle, the most critical position on their defense.
The Washington Redskins injury report is getting smaller.
New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel is earning the label of "shutdown corner".
The New Orleans Saints offensive line has improved every week.
Green Bay Packers tackles Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton are struggling with the zone blocking scheme.
Denver Broncos undrafted rookie running back Selvin Young is expected to start on Monday night.
"Open Date" Links
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald is being sued for child support.
They're already looking ahead to the 2008 Draft in Atlanta.
Baltimore Ravens backup kicker Rhys Lloyd is enjoying playing behind Matt Stover.
Dallas Cowboys backup cornerback Nate Jones is developing a sitcom called "Jock Itch".
Friday, October 26, 2007
Mac's Picks - NFL Week 8
I have a few questions:
Last Week: 6-8
2007 Overall: 48-51-4
NFL News and Notes - October 26th, 2007
To keep himself fresh for the season, Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai took himself in and out of Monday night's game.
The Carolina Panthers elected a pair of new captains this week.
The defense is a source of concern for the Detroit Lions.
Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman doesn't mind being unheralded.
Troy Polamalu doesn't see what the big deal is about being named to the Pittsburgh Steelers' 75th anniversary team.
A former Cincinnati Bengals first round pick is trying to get back into the NFL.
Spending the week in London is a homecoming for New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas won't make the trip to London.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Sean Considine left practice Thursday with a sprained ankle.
The Minnesota Vikings have signed punter Chris Kluwe to a six-year contract extension.
Cleveland Browns safeties are struggling to cover opposing tight ends.
St. Louis Rams left tackle Orlando Pace plans on coming back next year.
The 4th quarter has been a bugaboo for the Oakland Raiders.
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Corey Simon listened to what his body was telling him.
Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Perry Fewell is trying find new ways to generate a pass rush.
The New York Jets defense won't be the same this week without linebacker Jonathan Vilma.
Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson praised the job his fellow receivers have done in his absence.
San Diego's mayor says Qualcomm Stadium will be ready for Sunday's game against Houston.
Veteran quarterback Todd Bouman was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Michael Clayton should only miss two games with a high ankle sprain.
The Washington Redskins defense is getting healthy as they prepare to face the New England Patriots.
New England Patriots wide receivers are ready to take some hits on Sunday.
New Orleans Saints tight end Eric Johnson will return to the place he thought he'd spend his entire career.
Both Alex Smith and Frank Gore are expected to play this Sunday.
The Carolina Panthers elected a pair of new captains this week.
The defense is a source of concern for the Detroit Lions.
Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman doesn't mind being unheralded.
Troy Polamalu doesn't see what the big deal is about being named to the Pittsburgh Steelers' 75th anniversary team.
A former Cincinnati Bengals first round pick is trying to get back into the NFL.
Spending the week in London is a homecoming for New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas won't make the trip to London.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Sean Considine left practice Thursday with a sprained ankle.
The Minnesota Vikings have signed punter Chris Kluwe to a six-year contract extension.
Cleveland Browns safeties are struggling to cover opposing tight ends.
St. Louis Rams left tackle Orlando Pace plans on coming back next year.
The 4th quarter has been a bugaboo for the Oakland Raiders.
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Corey Simon listened to what his body was telling him.
Buffalo Bills defensive coordinator Perry Fewell is trying find new ways to generate a pass rush.
The New York Jets defense won't be the same this week without linebacker Jonathan Vilma.
Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson praised the job his fellow receivers have done in his absence.
San Diego's mayor says Qualcomm Stadium will be ready for Sunday's game against Houston.
Veteran quarterback Todd Bouman was signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Michael Clayton should only miss two games with a high ankle sprain.
The Washington Redskins defense is getting healthy as they prepare to face the New England Patriots.
New England Patriots wide receivers are ready to take some hits on Sunday.
New Orleans Saints tight end Eric Johnson will return to the place he thought he'd spend his entire career.
Both Alex Smith and Frank Gore are expected to play this Sunday.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
NFL News and Notes - October 25th, 2007
The Indianapolis Colts are 3rd in the NFL in total defense and defensive end Dwight Freeney was named the AFC's Defensive Player of the Week.
Carolina Panthers quarterback David Carr will start on Sunday if he's healthy.
A few weeks ago, Detroit Lions cornerback Ramzee Robinson, who was "Mr. Irrelevant" in the 2007 NFL Draft, applied to flip burgers at a Red Robin restaurant.
The Chicago Bears will wear their orange, alternate jerseys this Sunday.
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark has a medical condition that only affects him at high altitudes.
New York Giants cornerback Sam Madison is happy to be facing his former team on the other side of the pond.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas may not make the trip to London.
Philadelphia Eagles tight end LJ Smith plans on playing this Sunday against Minnesota.
Kelly Holcomb is the likely starter at quarterback this week for the Vikings.
After being placed on injured reserve for the second time in two years, Cleveland Browns cornerback Gary Baxter will return as a safety next season.
St. Louis Rams defensive end Leonard Little has been ruled out for this week's game against Cleveland.
Oakland Raiders rookie quarterback JaMarcus Russell says he's ready to start.
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Corey Simon will retire on Thursday and the Titans are a team that is interested in signing free agent Grady Jackson.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini explained why Jonathan Vilma was benched last Sunday.
Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson participated in individual drills for the first time in nearly six weeks.
The decision on where the San Diego Chargers and Houston Texans will play this Sunday's game will be left up to Dean Sanders, the mayor of San Diego.
The fate of the Jacksonville Jaguars are presently in the hands of backup quarterback Quinn Gray.
New Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman was shocked to learn that the Bucs have never had a kick returned for a touchdown.
The Washington Redskins have too much talent to be scoring this few points.
New England Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour returned to practice on Wednesday.
After leaving last week's game with a strained calf, New Orleans Saints center Jeff Faine missed practice yesterday.
All signs point to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith starting this week against New Orleans.
49ers wide receiver Darrell Jackson has a strained quadriceps that could keep him out of Sunday's game.
The Green Bay Packers are focused on takeaways.
Longtime Denver Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith returned to practice.
Bye Week Links
Free agent defensive tackle Grady Jackson was told by the Atlanta Falcons that he didn't "fit the system" anymore.
The Arizona Cardinals are playing hard, just not smart.
Former Baltimore Ravens teammates Adalius Thomas and Ray Lewis are embroiled in a war of words.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo wasn't limited in practice on Wednesday, three days straining him hamstring.
Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star thinks Chiefs running back Priest Holmes is selfish.
Carolina Panthers quarterback David Carr will start on Sunday if he's healthy.
A few weeks ago, Detroit Lions cornerback Ramzee Robinson, who was "Mr. Irrelevant" in the 2007 NFL Draft, applied to flip burgers at a Red Robin restaurant.
The Chicago Bears will wear their orange, alternate jerseys this Sunday.
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark has a medical condition that only affects him at high altitudes.
New York Giants cornerback Sam Madison is happy to be facing his former team on the other side of the pond.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas may not make the trip to London.
Philadelphia Eagles tight end LJ Smith plans on playing this Sunday against Minnesota.
Kelly Holcomb is the likely starter at quarterback this week for the Vikings.
After being placed on injured reserve for the second time in two years, Cleveland Browns cornerback Gary Baxter will return as a safety next season.
St. Louis Rams defensive end Leonard Little has been ruled out for this week's game against Cleveland.
Oakland Raiders rookie quarterback JaMarcus Russell says he's ready to start.
Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Corey Simon will retire on Thursday and the Titans are a team that is interested in signing free agent Grady Jackson.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini explained why Jonathan Vilma was benched last Sunday.
Houston Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson participated in individual drills for the first time in nearly six weeks.
The decision on where the San Diego Chargers and Houston Texans will play this Sunday's game will be left up to Dean Sanders, the mayor of San Diego.
The fate of the Jacksonville Jaguars are presently in the hands of backup quarterback Quinn Gray.
New Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Pittman was shocked to learn that the Bucs have never had a kick returned for a touchdown.
The Washington Redskins have too much talent to be scoring this few points.
New England Patriots defensive end Richard Seymour returned to practice on Wednesday.
After leaving last week's game with a strained calf, New Orleans Saints center Jeff Faine missed practice yesterday.
All signs point to San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith starting this week against New Orleans.
49ers wide receiver Darrell Jackson has a strained quadriceps that could keep him out of Sunday's game.
The Green Bay Packers are focused on takeaways.
Longtime Denver Broncos wide receiver Rod Smith returned to practice.
Bye Week Links
Free agent defensive tackle Grady Jackson was told by the Atlanta Falcons that he didn't "fit the system" anymore.
The Arizona Cardinals are playing hard, just not smart.
Former Baltimore Ravens teammates Adalius Thomas and Ray Lewis are embroiled in a war of words.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo wasn't limited in practice on Wednesday, three days straining him hamstring.
Jason Whitlock of the Kansas City Star thinks Chiefs running back Priest Holmes is selfish.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
DeAngelo Hall Speaks Out
During an interview with the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Atlanta Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall had some harsh words following the release of veteran defensive tackle Grady Jackson.
From the AJC article: When Hall was told Petrino said the move was a football decision, he responded: "If that's the case they need to cut about 52 [players], they can cut me too, they can cut all 53 of us. Ain't nobody playing the way they should be playing right now. Obviously. We're 1-6. To single out Grady is asinine. It's ridiculous. We got so many players that haven't made a play around here. It don't make no sense. We gave a lot of people jobs. To sit there and single Grady out and say that's the reason why, that's ludicrous. If you've got something else better and more concrete to go off of, I'd love to hear it. I'm not buying that one."
I've been told the Falcons locker room is in a state of disarray and Grady Jackson probably won't be the last veteran purged from the roster.
As for Jackson's future prospects, should he clear waivers, several teams are reportedly interested in adding the veteran run-stuffing defensive tackle, who will look to sign with a team in contention for the Super Bowl.
From the AJC article: When Hall was told Petrino said the move was a football decision, he responded: "If that's the case they need to cut about 52 [players], they can cut me too, they can cut all 53 of us. Ain't nobody playing the way they should be playing right now. Obviously. We're 1-6. To single out Grady is asinine. It's ridiculous. We got so many players that haven't made a play around here. It don't make no sense. We gave a lot of people jobs. To sit there and single Grady out and say that's the reason why, that's ludicrous. If you've got something else better and more concrete to go off of, I'd love to hear it. I'm not buying that one."
I've been told the Falcons locker room is in a state of disarray and Grady Jackson probably won't be the last veteran purged from the roster.
As for Jackson's future prospects, should he clear waivers, several teams are reportedly interested in adding the veteran run-stuffing defensive tackle, who will look to sign with a team in contention for the Super Bowl.
NFL News and Notes - October 24th, 2007
Running back Joseph Addai returning from an injury had something to do with the Indianapolis Colts using a two-back approach to the running game.
Sunday will be the first time that Charlotte gets a first-hand look at Peyton Manning.
Roy Williams is one of the reasons the Detroit Lions can make the playoffs.
The Chicago Bears are the only team with no runs of 20 yards or more.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith likely won't play on Sunday.
For the Cincinnati Bengals to beat the Steelers, they'll have to run the ball against the 3rd-ranked run defense in the NFL.
The New York Giants believe they can emulate what the Patriots did to the Miami Dolphins secondary last week.
Miami Dolphins running back Jesse Chatman has made the most of every opportunity he's gotten.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins doesn't appear to be any closer to returning to action.
Kevin Seifert of the Star Tribune writes that the Minnesota Vikings are in a "lose-lose" situation with quarterback Tarvaris Jackson.
The Cleveland Browns placed cornerback Gary Baxter on injured reserve.
After being arrested in Houston on Tuesday morning, the St. Louis Rams dumped guard Claude Terrell.
The impact Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha has isn't confined to the football field.
Tennessee Titans kicker Rod Bironas was able to set an NFL single-game record for field goals because the Titans offense isn't very good in the red zone.
The vote on whether or not to allow the Buffalo Bills to play one pre-season and one regular season game in Toronto appears to be just a formality at this point.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini isn't going to give his players any days off.
With the wildfires in San Diego, this week's Houston Texas-San Diego Chargers could be moved to Reliant Stadium.
The most likely scenario for the Texans-Chargers game is to play it Monday night at University of Pheonix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
This is the 7th consecutive season in which the Jacksonville Jaguars have lost their starting quarterback to an injury.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released veteran fullback Zack Crockett.
A strained quad could sideline Washington Redskins kick returner Rock Cartwright.
160 of the 354 passing yards Tom Brady compiled on Sunday came after the catch.
Next Sunday's game against San Francisco is a good opportunity for the New Orleans Saints to improve their standing in the NFC playoff race.
If Alex Smith is unable to play again this week, San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Nolan hasn't ruled out starting quarterback Shaun Hill over veteran Trent Dilfer.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre isn't connecting on the deep ball.
The Denver Broncos worked out a quartet of wide receivers on Tuesday, including Taylor Jacobs, Bethel Johnson and Chad Owens.
Bye Week Teams
The Arizona Cardinals have managed just 6 points in the 1st quarter this season.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich will have surgery on his right ankle.
Egos are running the show in Baltimore.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones doesn't foresee his team playing an international game anytime soon.
To Kansas City Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards, punter Dustin Colquitt is "a weapon".
The 91-yard kick return for a touchdown by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Nate Burleson has earned him the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week honors for Week 7.
Sunday will be the first time that Charlotte gets a first-hand look at Peyton Manning.
Roy Williams is one of the reasons the Detroit Lions can make the playoffs.
The Chicago Bears are the only team with no runs of 20 yards or more.
Pittsburgh Steelers defensive end Aaron Smith likely won't play on Sunday.
For the Cincinnati Bengals to beat the Steelers, they'll have to run the ball against the 3rd-ranked run defense in the NFL.
The New York Giants believe they can emulate what the Patriots did to the Miami Dolphins secondary last week.
Miami Dolphins running back Jesse Chatman has made the most of every opportunity he's gotten.
Philadelphia Eagles safety Brian Dawkins doesn't appear to be any closer to returning to action.
Kevin Seifert of the Star Tribune writes that the Minnesota Vikings are in a "lose-lose" situation with quarterback Tarvaris Jackson.
The Cleveland Browns placed cornerback Gary Baxter on injured reserve.
After being arrested in Houston on Tuesday morning, the St. Louis Rams dumped guard Claude Terrell.
The impact Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha has isn't confined to the football field.
Tennessee Titans kicker Rod Bironas was able to set an NFL single-game record for field goals because the Titans offense isn't very good in the red zone.
The vote on whether or not to allow the Buffalo Bills to play one pre-season and one regular season game in Toronto appears to be just a formality at this point.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini isn't going to give his players any days off.
With the wildfires in San Diego, this week's Houston Texas-San Diego Chargers could be moved to Reliant Stadium.
The most likely scenario for the Texans-Chargers game is to play it Monday night at University of Pheonix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
This is the 7th consecutive season in which the Jacksonville Jaguars have lost their starting quarterback to an injury.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers released veteran fullback Zack Crockett.
A strained quad could sideline Washington Redskins kick returner Rock Cartwright.
160 of the 354 passing yards Tom Brady compiled on Sunday came after the catch.
Next Sunday's game against San Francisco is a good opportunity for the New Orleans Saints to improve their standing in the NFC playoff race.
If Alex Smith is unable to play again this week, San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Nolan hasn't ruled out starting quarterback Shaun Hill over veteran Trent Dilfer.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre isn't connecting on the deep ball.
The Denver Broncos worked out a quartet of wide receivers on Tuesday, including Taylor Jacobs, Bethel Johnson and Chad Owens.
Bye Week Teams
The Arizona Cardinals have managed just 6 points in the 1st quarter this season.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich will have surgery on his right ankle.
Egos are running the show in Baltimore.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones doesn't foresee his team playing an international game anytime soon.
To Kansas City Chiefs head coach Herm Edwards, punter Dustin Colquitt is "a weapon".
The 91-yard kick return for a touchdown by Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Nate Burleson has earned him the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week honors for Week 7.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
NFL News and Notes - October 23rd, 2007
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick isn't pleased with how his defense is tackling.
It has somehow managed to get worse for the Miami Dolphins, as running back Ronnie Brown will miss the rest of the season.
After beating the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills head coach Dick Jauron gave his players a rare day off.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini wasn't affirming quarterback Chad Pennington's status as the starter on Monday.
Mac Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram has five things to watch for when the Dallas Cowboys emerge from the bye week.
A day after losing in the final moments to the Chicago Bears, the Philadelphia Eagles altered their normal Monday schedule.
Washington Redskins center Casey Rabach isn't sure he'll be ready to play against New England on Sunday.
The New York Giants aren't going to London to check out Buckingham Palace.
Despite being idle, the Cleveland Browns moved up in the AFC North standings on Sunday.
Were the Pittsburgh Steelers exposed on Sunday night?
Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun addresses the issues facing the Baltimore Ravens as they head into the bye.
It's "Steeler Week" for the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Detroit Lions got an early dose of bulletin board material from Chicago Bears DT Tommie Harris.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson has a broken index finger, which could open the door for Kelly Holcomb to start.
Recently reinstated Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson practiced for the first time on Monday.
Chicago Bears quarterback Brian Griese was a bit of a buzzkill on Monday.
The Jacksonville Jaguars lost more than the game last night.
Whenever the Indianapolis Colts offense needed a big play, they looked to wide receiver Reggie Wayne.
Houston Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels will be ready if they need him to start against San Diego this week.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young is expected to return from his injured quad this week.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich will miss about two weeks with a lower leg injury.
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devery Henderson wants to play a bigger role in the Saints offense.
A healthy David Carr will be the starter for the Carolina Panthers.
Another Tampa Bay Buccaneer was lost for the year on Sunday.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall was arrested for suspicion of DUI.
The Kansas City Chiefs are alone in first place in the AFC West?
Fires in Southern California have forced the San Diego Chargers to move their practices to Arizona.
Oakland Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin may be forced to make a decision on a starting quarterback this week.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt defended the play he called for the two-point conversion attempt.
St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson may be back in the lineup this week.
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore says he'll be ready to play on Sunday against New Orleans.
The Seattle Seahawks were given the week off by head coach Mike Holmgren.
It has somehow managed to get worse for the Miami Dolphins, as running back Ronnie Brown will miss the rest of the season.
After beating the Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills head coach Dick Jauron gave his players a rare day off.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini wasn't affirming quarterback Chad Pennington's status as the starter on Monday.
Mac Engel of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram has five things to watch for when the Dallas Cowboys emerge from the bye week.
A day after losing in the final moments to the Chicago Bears, the Philadelphia Eagles altered their normal Monday schedule.
Washington Redskins center Casey Rabach isn't sure he'll be ready to play against New England on Sunday.
The New York Giants aren't going to London to check out Buckingham Palace.
Despite being idle, the Cleveland Browns moved up in the AFC North standings on Sunday.
Were the Pittsburgh Steelers exposed on Sunday night?
Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun addresses the issues facing the Baltimore Ravens as they head into the bye.
It's "Steeler Week" for the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Detroit Lions got an early dose of bulletin board material from Chicago Bears DT Tommie Harris.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson has a broken index finger, which could open the door for Kelly Holcomb to start.
Recently reinstated Green Bay Packers wide receiver Koren Robinson practiced for the first time on Monday.
Chicago Bears quarterback Brian Griese was a bit of a buzzkill on Monday.
The Jacksonville Jaguars lost more than the game last night.
Whenever the Indianapolis Colts offense needed a big play, they looked to wide receiver Reggie Wayne.
Houston Texans quarterback Sage Rosenfels will be ready if they need him to start against San Diego this week.
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young is expected to return from his injured quad this week.
Atlanta Falcons quarterback Byron Leftwich will miss about two weeks with a lower leg injury.
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Devery Henderson wants to play a bigger role in the Saints offense.
A healthy David Carr will be the starter for the Carolina Panthers.
Another Tampa Bay Buccaneer was lost for the year on Sunday.
Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall was arrested for suspicion of DUI.
The Kansas City Chiefs are alone in first place in the AFC West?
Fires in Southern California have forced the San Diego Chargers to move their practices to Arizona.
Oakland Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin may be forced to make a decision on a starting quarterback this week.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt defended the play he called for the two-point conversion attempt.
St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson may be back in the lineup this week.
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore says he'll be ready to play on Sunday against New Orleans.
The Seattle Seahawks were given the week off by head coach Mike Holmgren.