Philadelphia Eagles tight end L.J. Smith sustained a concussion after being hit by Atlanta Falcons safety Lawyer Milloy.
Smith is still feeling the effects of the concussion and will miss Sunday's game against Seattle. Milloy has not, and will not, be fined by the National Football League.
The Eagletarian suspects that the NFL makes this stuff up as they go along.
Friday, October 31, 2008
NFL Suspends Larry Johnson for 1 Game
Kansas City Chiefs running back/spitting enthusiast Larry Johnson was suspended for one game by the National Football League for violating the league's Personal Conduct policy.
Johnson met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday to discuss his recent troubles with the law. Johnson is facing assault charges after spitting his drink into the face of a woman at a Kansas City nightclub.
The league released the following statement: "Larry Johnson of the Kansas City Chiefs was notified today that he is suspended without pay for Week 10 of the regular season (Kansas City at San Diego on November 9) for violating the NFL Personal Conduct Policy. Johnson has previously violated the NFL Personal Conduct Policy and has since been involved in multiple incidents in which law enforcement was required to intervene. Johnson also was informed that upon the disposition of two pending law enforcement matters he faces the possibility of additional disciplinary action."
Johnson met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday to discuss his recent troubles with the law. Johnson is facing assault charges after spitting his drink into the face of a woman at a Kansas City nightclub.
The league released the following statement: "Larry Johnson of the Kansas City Chiefs was notified today that he is suspended without pay for Week 10 of the regular season (Kansas City at San Diego on November 9) for violating the NFL Personal Conduct Policy. Johnson has previously violated the NFL Personal Conduct Policy and has since been involved in multiple incidents in which law enforcement was required to intervene. Johnson also was informed that upon the disposition of two pending law enforcement matters he faces the possibility of additional disciplinary action."
NFL Injury Report - Week 9
The official injury reports are in for Week 9:
Arizona Cardinals
Out: TE Leonard Pope (ankle)
Questionable: WR Early Doucet (groin), DE Travis LaBoy (groin), WR Sean Morey (hamstring), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
Probable: S Aaron Francisco (ankle), CB Eric Green (knee), K Neil Rackers (calf)
Atlanta Falcons
Out: T Sam Baker (hip, back)
Questionable: CB Brent Grimes (knee), LB Michael Boley (quad), LB Stephen Nicholas (quad), DT Grady Jackson (knee), DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Todd Weiner (knee), WR Laurent Robinson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion)
Baltimore Ravens
Out: S Dawan Landry (neck), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
Doubtful: CB Chris McAlister (knee), CB Samari Rolle (neck)
Questionable: T Jared Gaither (neck), RB Willis McGahee (ankle), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh)
Probable: LB Brendan Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), TE Todd Heap (neck), FB Le'Ron McClain (ankle), S Ed Reed (shoulder, neck)
Buffalo Bills
Out: G Brad Butler (knee), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
Probable: QB Trent Edwards (ankle), S John Wendling (ankle), G Jason Whittle (thigh), CB Ashton Youboty (foot)
Chicago Bears
Questionable: CB Danieal Manning (hamstring), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee)
Probable: CB Nathan Vasher (hand, wrist), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder), WR Marty Booker (undisclosed)
Cincinnati Bengals
Out: WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring), QB Carson Palmer (elbow)
Questionable: LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
Probable: CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring), LB Corey Mays (ankle), DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring), DT Domata Peko (ankle), TE Ben Utecht (chest), WR Glenn Holt (chest), WR Chad Johnson (foot), TE Reggie Kelly (neck), S Nedu Ndukwe (ribs)
Cleveland Browns
Out: T Ryan Tucker (knee)
Doubtful: FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle)
Questionable: S Sean Jones (knee), S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DE Corey Williams (shoulder), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad)
Dallas Cowboys
Out: QB Tony Romo (finger), RB Felix Jones (hamstring), G Kyle Kosier (foot), CB Terence Newman (abdomen)
Questionable: TE Jason Witten (ribs)
Probable: CB Anthony Henry (thigh), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring), S Patrick Watkins (neck)
Denver Broncos
Out: CB Champ Bailey (groin)
Questionable: RB Andre Hall (ankle), RB Michael Pittman (ribs), TE Tony Scheffler (groin), WR Brandon Stokley (concussion), RB Ryan Torain (elbow), RB Selvin Young (groin)
Probable: WR Brandon Marshall (groin), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee)
Detroit Lions
Out: FB Jerome Felton (ankle), LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), S Dwight Smith (foot)
Doubtful: TE Casey FitzSimmons (ribs)
Questionable: DT Corey Redding (groin), G Damion Cook (knee), G Andy McCollum (finger), DT Chuck Darby (calf)
Green Bay Packers
Doubtful: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
Questionable: WR Jordy Nelson (ankle)
Probable: T Chad Clifton (knees), DE Jason Hunter (hamstring), LB Danny Lansanah (hamstring), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
Out: WR Andre Davis (finger)
Questionable: LB Zach Diles (hamstring), RB Ahman Green (thigh)
Probable: S Dominique Barber (hamstring), WR Kevin Walter (knee)
Indianapolis Colts
Out: WR Roy Hall (knee)
Questionable: RB Joseph Addai (hamstring), RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring, knee), CB Dante Hughes (ankle), LB Freddy Keiaho (knee), RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle), S Bob Sanders (ankle, knee), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
Out: WR Mike Walker (knee)
Probable: CB Rashean Mathis (foot), WR Reggie Williams (hamstring)
Kansas City Chiefs
Questionable: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), CB Patrick Surtain (quad), LB Weston Dacus (groin)
Probable: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin), CB Brandon Flowers (foot)
Miami Dolphins
Questionable: FB Casey Cramer (ankle)
Probable: CB Will Allen (knee), NT Jason Ferguson (oblique)
Minnesota Vikings
Out: LB David Herron (hip)
Questionable: TE Garrett Mills (ankle)
Probable: DE Ray Edwards (knee), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
Doubtful: LB Shawn Crable (shin), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
Questionable: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Matt Slater (ankle)
New York Giants
Out: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
Probable: LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand)
New York Jets
Out: K Mike Nugent (thigh), S Eric Smith (head)
Doubtful: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin)
Questionable: TE Chris Baker (hip), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Probable: WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
Doubtful: LB Jon Alston (foot), LB Ricky Brown (groin), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), RB Darren McFadden (toe)
Probable: S Michael Huff (thumb), CB Chris Johnson (back), QB Andrew Walter (calf), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
Out: G Shawn Andrews (back), TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
Questionable: WR Jason Avant (trap)
Probable: WR Reggie Brown (groin), WR DeSean Jackson (shoulder), DE Juqua Parker (knee), RB Brian Westbrook (rib, ankle)
Pittsburgh Steelers
Out: CB Bryant McFadden (arm), S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), T Marvel Smith (back)
Probable: G Chris Kemoeatu (ankle), DT Casey Hampton (toe), RB Willie Parker (knee), S Troy Polamalu (not injury related), QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
Out: S Todd Johnson (kidney), WR Drew Bennett (foot)
Questionable: DT Adam Carriker (ankle), DE Leonard Little (hamstring), CB Tye Hill (knee), RB Steven Jackson (thigh)
Seattle Seahawks
Out: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), WR Deion Branch (heel), TE Will Heller (knee)
Questionable: FB Leonard Weaver (foot), LB Lofa Tatupu (groin)
Probable: WR Koren Robinson (knee)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Out: S Jermaine Phillips (forearm)
Questionable: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Michael Clayton (knee), RB Warrick Dunn (back), QB Brian Griese (elbow), DT Jovan Haye (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), G Arron Sears (back, head), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
Out: LB Colin Allred (groin)
Doubtful: DE William Hayes (illness)
Questionable: CB Chris Carr (back), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)
Probable: DE Dave Ball (concussion), RB Quinton Ganther (concussion)
Washington Redskins
Out: RB Ladell Betts (knee), WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), CB Shawn Springs (calf), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
Questionable: DT Cornelius Griffin (shoulder), S LaRon Landry (hamstring), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), T Chris Samuels (knee)
Probable: DT Lorenzo Alexander (toe), RB Rock Cartwright (knee), S Chris Horton (ankle), G Pete Kendall (knee), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Fred Smoot (groin), LB Marcus Washington (hip)
Arizona Cardinals
Out: TE Leonard Pope (ankle)
Questionable: WR Early Doucet (groin), DE Travis LaBoy (groin), WR Sean Morey (hamstring), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
Probable: S Aaron Francisco (ankle), CB Eric Green (knee), K Neil Rackers (calf)
Atlanta Falcons
Out: T Sam Baker (hip, back)
Questionable: CB Brent Grimes (knee), LB Michael Boley (quad), LB Stephen Nicholas (quad), DT Grady Jackson (knee), DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Todd Weiner (knee), WR Laurent Robinson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion)
Baltimore Ravens
Out: S Dawan Landry (neck), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
Doubtful: CB Chris McAlister (knee), CB Samari Rolle (neck)
Questionable: T Jared Gaither (neck), RB Willis McGahee (ankle), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh)
Probable: LB Brendan Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), TE Todd Heap (neck), FB Le'Ron McClain (ankle), S Ed Reed (shoulder, neck)
Buffalo Bills
Out: G Brad Butler (knee), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
Probable: QB Trent Edwards (ankle), S John Wendling (ankle), G Jason Whittle (thigh), CB Ashton Youboty (foot)
Chicago Bears
Questionable: CB Danieal Manning (hamstring), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee)
Probable: CB Nathan Vasher (hand, wrist), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder), WR Marty Booker (undisclosed)
Cincinnati Bengals
Out: WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), WR Andre Caldwell (foot), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring), QB Carson Palmer (elbow)
Questionable: LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
Probable: CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring), LB Corey Mays (ankle), DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring), DT Domata Peko (ankle), TE Ben Utecht (chest), WR Glenn Holt (chest), WR Chad Johnson (foot), TE Reggie Kelly (neck), S Nedu Ndukwe (ribs)
Cleveland Browns
Out: T Ryan Tucker (knee)
Doubtful: FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle)
Questionable: S Sean Jones (knee), S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DE Corey Williams (shoulder), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad)
Dallas Cowboys
Out: QB Tony Romo (finger), RB Felix Jones (hamstring), G Kyle Kosier (foot), CB Terence Newman (abdomen)
Questionable: TE Jason Witten (ribs)
Probable: CB Anthony Henry (thigh), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring), S Patrick Watkins (neck)
Denver Broncos
Out: CB Champ Bailey (groin)
Questionable: RB Andre Hall (ankle), RB Michael Pittman (ribs), TE Tony Scheffler (groin), WR Brandon Stokley (concussion), RB Ryan Torain (elbow), RB Selvin Young (groin)
Probable: WR Brandon Marshall (groin), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee)
Detroit Lions
Out: FB Jerome Felton (ankle), LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), S Dwight Smith (foot)
Doubtful: TE Casey FitzSimmons (ribs)
Questionable: DT Corey Redding (groin), G Damion Cook (knee), G Andy McCollum (finger), DT Chuck Darby (calf)
Green Bay Packers
Doubtful: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
Questionable: WR Jordy Nelson (ankle)
Probable: T Chad Clifton (knees), DE Jason Hunter (hamstring), LB Danny Lansanah (hamstring), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
Out: WR Andre Davis (finger)
Questionable: LB Zach Diles (hamstring), RB Ahman Green (thigh)
Probable: S Dominique Barber (hamstring), WR Kevin Walter (knee)
Indianapolis Colts
Out: WR Roy Hall (knee)
Questionable: RB Joseph Addai (hamstring), RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring, knee), CB Dante Hughes (ankle), LB Freddy Keiaho (knee), RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle), S Bob Sanders (ankle, knee), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
Out: WR Mike Walker (knee)
Probable: CB Rashean Mathis (foot), WR Reggie Williams (hamstring)
Kansas City Chiefs
Questionable: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), CB Patrick Surtain (quad), LB Weston Dacus (groin)
Probable: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin), CB Brandon Flowers (foot)
Miami Dolphins
Questionable: FB Casey Cramer (ankle)
Probable: CB Will Allen (knee), NT Jason Ferguson (oblique)
Minnesota Vikings
Out: LB David Herron (hip)
Questionable: TE Garrett Mills (ankle)
Probable: DE Ray Edwards (knee), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
Doubtful: LB Shawn Crable (shin), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
Questionable: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Matt Slater (ankle)
New York Giants
Out: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
Probable: LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand)
New York Jets
Out: K Mike Nugent (thigh), S Eric Smith (head)
Doubtful: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin)
Questionable: TE Chris Baker (hip), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Probable: WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
Doubtful: LB Jon Alston (foot), LB Ricky Brown (groin), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), RB Darren McFadden (toe)
Probable: S Michael Huff (thumb), CB Chris Johnson (back), QB Andrew Walter (calf), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
Out: G Shawn Andrews (back), TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
Questionable: WR Jason Avant (trap)
Probable: WR Reggie Brown (groin), WR DeSean Jackson (shoulder), DE Juqua Parker (knee), RB Brian Westbrook (rib, ankle)
Pittsburgh Steelers
Out: CB Bryant McFadden (arm), S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), T Marvel Smith (back)
Probable: G Chris Kemoeatu (ankle), DT Casey Hampton (toe), RB Willie Parker (knee), S Troy Polamalu (not injury related), QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
Out: S Todd Johnson (kidney), WR Drew Bennett (foot)
Questionable: DT Adam Carriker (ankle), DE Leonard Little (hamstring), CB Tye Hill (knee), RB Steven Jackson (thigh)
Seattle Seahawks
Out: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), WR Deion Branch (heel), TE Will Heller (knee)
Questionable: FB Leonard Weaver (foot), LB Lofa Tatupu (groin)
Probable: WR Koren Robinson (knee)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Out: S Jermaine Phillips (forearm)
Questionable: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Michael Clayton (knee), RB Warrick Dunn (back), QB Brian Griese (elbow), DT Jovan Haye (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), G Arron Sears (back, head), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
Out: LB Colin Allred (groin)
Doubtful: DE William Hayes (illness)
Questionable: CB Chris Carr (back), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)
Probable: DE Dave Ball (concussion), RB Quinton Ganther (concussion)
Washington Redskins
Out: RB Ladell Betts (knee), WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), CB Shawn Springs (calf), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
Questionable: DT Cornelius Griffin (shoulder), S LaRon Landry (hamstring), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), T Chris Samuels (knee)
Probable: DT Lorenzo Alexander (toe), RB Rock Cartwright (knee), S Chris Horton (ankle), G Pete Kendall (knee), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Fred Smoot (groin), LB Marcus Washington (hip)
Seahawks to Play Without Patrick Kerney
When the Seattle Seahawks host the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, they'll do so without All-Pro defensive end Patrick Kerney.
Kerney re-injured his shoulder in the Seahawks' win over the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday. Kerney had surgery in the off-season to repair a torn labrum, and is flying to Birmingham, Alabama to have Dr. James Andrews examine the injury.
The Seahawks expect to have a better idea of Kerney's status on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week. In the meantime, Darryl Tapp will start at left defensive end and rookie Lawrence Jackson will start on the right side. Second-year defensive end Baraka Atkins figures to see his 1st action of the 2008 season.
Kerney re-injured his shoulder in the Seahawks' win over the San Francisco 49ers last Sunday. Kerney had surgery in the off-season to repair a torn labrum, and is flying to Birmingham, Alabama to have Dr. James Andrews examine the injury.
The Seahawks expect to have a better idea of Kerney's status on Tuesday or Wednesday of next week. In the meantime, Darryl Tapp will start at left defensive end and rookie Lawrence Jackson will start on the right side. Second-year defensive end Baraka Atkins figures to see his 1st action of the 2008 season.
Packers Lock Up Aaron Rodgers
The Green Bay Packers have signed quarterback Aaron Rodgers to a 6-year contract extension worth a reported $65 million dollars. NFL.com's Adam Schefter is reporting that the contract contains $20 million dollars in guaranteed money.
Rodgers' extension will keep in Green Bay through 2014.
Rodgers' extension will keep in Green Bay through 2014.
Mac's NFL Picks - Week 9
Pittsburgh at Washington (-2) – Since 1936, the last Redskins home game before the presidential elections has been a reliable predicator of who would win the White House.
If the Redskins won, the incumbent party would retain the Oval Office.
If the visitors won, the challenging party would win.
This has held true for 17 of the last 18 elections, with the lone exception being 2004, when the Green Bay Packers beat the Washington Redskins on Sunday, and George W. Bush winning a second term two days later.
Adding to the Presidential feel of Monday night’s game, both John McCain and Barack Obama will tape segments to air at halftime of ESPN’s broadcast. Welcome to politics in the year 2008, where on the eve of one of the biggest elections in our nation’s history, one of the last people to interview both candidates will be Chris Berman. Pick: Steelers +2
Green Bay at Tennessee (-5) – Has anyone else noticed that with despite a formula consisting of a game manager at quarterback, a solid defense and a two-pronged ground game, the Tennessee Titans have scored 30+ points in 4 of their last 5 games? Pick: Titans -5
Tampa Bay (-9) at Kansas City – When was the last time a 5-3 road team was giving as many as points it scored the week before? Pick: Buccaneers -9
Jacksonville (-8) at Cincinnati – Can’t the Bengals just go ahead and put Marvin Lewis out of his misery? Pick: Jaguars -8
NY Jets at Buffalo (-5 ½) – Brett Favre reminded me last week of why I would never draft him for my fantasy team. Facing a terrible pass defense, with a pair of rookie cornerbacks, Favre throws three picks, one of which was returned for a touchdown. They should’ve destroyed the Chiefs, but instead, they barely squeaked a win out of it. I simply don’t trust him or the Jets at this point. Pick: Bills -5 ½ (And yes, Favre is on my fantasy team)
Arizona (-3) at St. Louis – The Cardinals haven’t shown they can win on the road and the Rams are rejuvenated now that “The Haz” is running the show. Pick: Rams +3
Houston at Minnesota (-4 ½) – Matt Schaub is terrible on the road and the Minnesota Vikings need to get some wins before they lose both Williams’ to suspensions. Pick: Vikings -4 ½
Baltimore at Cleveland (-1 ½) – With their physical defense and ground game, and an increasingly creative offense under Cam Cameron (anyone see rookie quarterback Joe Flacco’s 43-yard reception last week?), the Ravens are legitimate playoff contenders in the AFC. Pick: Ravens +1 ½
Detroit at Chicago (-12 ½) – I know the Lions are a potentially historically bad football team, but I don’t trust the Bears’ “Smoke & Mirrors” offense enough to lay down 12 ½ points. Pick: Lions +12 ½
Miami at Denver (-3 ½) – The Broncos are usually very good after the bye (15-4), but they also usually have a defense. Without Champ Bailey, Chad Pennington could post back-to-back 300-yard games. Pick: Dolphins +3 ½
Atlanta (-3) at Oakland – If I had to put money on either Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan or Jim Johnson’s Philadelphia Eagles’ defense with less than two minutes on the clock, I’d take Johnson’s defense every time. That said, we all know that the Falcons were robbed of the opportunity to get a huge win on the road last week. Pick: Falcons -3
Philadelphia (-6 ½) at Seattle – The Philadelphia Eagles are a better team, but I’ll give you three reasons for why I’m picking the Seahawk this week, provided you understand that I’m well aware that they may not be very good reasons to do so.
#1 – Philadelphia is allowing 30.3 points per game on the road this season.
#2 – Before last week’s game against Atlanta, the Eagles have struggled to cover their opponents’ tight ends. Seattle’s leading receiver is rookie tight end John Carlson.
#3 – Seneca Wallace is a mobile quarterback that Mike Holmgren can move around to neutralize the Eagles blitzes.
Pick: Seahawks +6 ½
Dallas at NY Giants (-8 ½) – Between all the money Jerry Jones spent this off-season, the “Hard Knocks” show on HBO during training camp, and every talking head picking them to represent the NFC in Super Bowl XLIII, does anyone feel badly that the big question in Dallas this week was how quickly Wade Phillips would replace Brad Johnson with Brooks Bollinger on Sunday? Pick: Giants -8 ½
New England at Indianapolis (-6) – If Indianapolis didn’t stumble out the gate, and Tom Brady has an intact and non-infected left knee, we’re giddily humming the NBC “Sunday Night Football in America” theme music all weekend in anticipation of the annual regular season “Game of the Year” that everyone always calls the AFC Championship game preview.
There’s still quite a bit of star power here, with Bill Belichick, Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning, Randy Moss, as well as Al Michaels and John Madden, but without Brady and the Colts being their usual “dominate the regular season” selves, it’s just not the same. Pick: Patriots +6
Last week: 4-10
2008 Season: 53-62-1
If the Redskins won, the incumbent party would retain the Oval Office.
If the visitors won, the challenging party would win.
This has held true for 17 of the last 18 elections, with the lone exception being 2004, when the Green Bay Packers beat the Washington Redskins on Sunday, and George W. Bush winning a second term two days later.
Adding to the Presidential feel of Monday night’s game, both John McCain and Barack Obama will tape segments to air at halftime of ESPN’s broadcast. Welcome to politics in the year 2008, where on the eve of one of the biggest elections in our nation’s history, one of the last people to interview both candidates will be Chris Berman. Pick: Steelers +2
Green Bay at Tennessee (-5) – Has anyone else noticed that with despite a formula consisting of a game manager at quarterback, a solid defense and a two-pronged ground game, the Tennessee Titans have scored 30+ points in 4 of their last 5 games? Pick: Titans -5
Tampa Bay (-9) at Kansas City – When was the last time a 5-3 road team was giving as many as points it scored the week before? Pick: Buccaneers -9
Jacksonville (-8) at Cincinnati – Can’t the Bengals just go ahead and put Marvin Lewis out of his misery? Pick: Jaguars -8
NY Jets at Buffalo (-5 ½) – Brett Favre reminded me last week of why I would never draft him for my fantasy team. Facing a terrible pass defense, with a pair of rookie cornerbacks, Favre throws three picks, one of which was returned for a touchdown. They should’ve destroyed the Chiefs, but instead, they barely squeaked a win out of it. I simply don’t trust him or the Jets at this point. Pick: Bills -5 ½ (And yes, Favre is on my fantasy team)
Arizona (-3) at St. Louis – The Cardinals haven’t shown they can win on the road and the Rams are rejuvenated now that “The Haz” is running the show. Pick: Rams +3
Houston at Minnesota (-4 ½) – Matt Schaub is terrible on the road and the Minnesota Vikings need to get some wins before they lose both Williams’ to suspensions. Pick: Vikings -4 ½
Baltimore at Cleveland (-1 ½) – With their physical defense and ground game, and an increasingly creative offense under Cam Cameron (anyone see rookie quarterback Joe Flacco’s 43-yard reception last week?), the Ravens are legitimate playoff contenders in the AFC. Pick: Ravens +1 ½
Detroit at Chicago (-12 ½) – I know the Lions are a potentially historically bad football team, but I don’t trust the Bears’ “Smoke & Mirrors” offense enough to lay down 12 ½ points. Pick: Lions +12 ½
Miami at Denver (-3 ½) – The Broncos are usually very good after the bye (15-4), but they also usually have a defense. Without Champ Bailey, Chad Pennington could post back-to-back 300-yard games. Pick: Dolphins +3 ½
Atlanta (-3) at Oakland – If I had to put money on either Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan or Jim Johnson’s Philadelphia Eagles’ defense with less than two minutes on the clock, I’d take Johnson’s defense every time. That said, we all know that the Falcons were robbed of the opportunity to get a huge win on the road last week. Pick: Falcons -3
Philadelphia (-6 ½) at Seattle – The Philadelphia Eagles are a better team, but I’ll give you three reasons for why I’m picking the Seahawk this week, provided you understand that I’m well aware that they may not be very good reasons to do so.
#1 – Philadelphia is allowing 30.3 points per game on the road this season.
#2 – Before last week’s game against Atlanta, the Eagles have struggled to cover their opponents’ tight ends. Seattle’s leading receiver is rookie tight end John Carlson.
#3 – Seneca Wallace is a mobile quarterback that Mike Holmgren can move around to neutralize the Eagles blitzes.
Pick: Seahawks +6 ½
Dallas at NY Giants (-8 ½) – Between all the money Jerry Jones spent this off-season, the “Hard Knocks” show on HBO during training camp, and every talking head picking them to represent the NFC in Super Bowl XLIII, does anyone feel badly that the big question in Dallas this week was how quickly Wade Phillips would replace Brad Johnson with Brooks Bollinger on Sunday? Pick: Giants -8 ½
New England at Indianapolis (-6) – If Indianapolis didn’t stumble out the gate, and Tom Brady has an intact and non-infected left knee, we’re giddily humming the NBC “Sunday Night Football in America” theme music all weekend in anticipation of the annual regular season “Game of the Year” that everyone always calls the AFC Championship game preview.
There’s still quite a bit of star power here, with Bill Belichick, Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning, Randy Moss, as well as Al Michaels and John Madden, but without Brady and the Colts being their usual “dominate the regular season” selves, it’s just not the same. Pick: Patriots +6
Last week: 4-10
2008 Season: 53-62-1
NFL Announces Monthly Award Winners
The NFL announced it's "Players of the Month" award winners for October. They are:
AFC
Offensive Player of the Month: Andre Johnson, WR, Houston Texans - Johnson had 41 receptions, 593 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the month of October.
Defensive Player of the Month: Joey Porter, LB, Miami Dolphins - Porter had 5.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery as the Dolphins went 2-2 in October.
Special Teams Player of the Month: Stephen Gostkowski, K, New England Patriots - Gostkowski was 9-for-10 on field goal attempts and led the Patriots in scoring in October.
September winners were Jay Cutler (QB, Broncos), Albert Haynesworth (DT, Tennessee) and Darren Sproles (RB/KR, San Diego)
NFC
Offensive Player of the Month: Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins - In 4 games, Portis ran for 575 yards and 4 touchdowns. Portis surpassed 120 yards in all 4 games.
Defensive Player of the Month: Jon Beason, LB, Carolina Panthers - Beason led the Panthers with 37 tackles and two interceptions in October.
Special Teams Player of the Month: Josh Brown, K, St. Louis Rams - Brown was 9-for-10 on field goal attempts and averaged 11 points per game as the Rams went 2-1 on the month.
September winners were: Drew Brees (QB, New Orleans), Charles Woodson (CB, Green Bay) and Sav Rocca (P, Philadelphia)
Rookie of the Month
Offense: Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons - Ryan completed 61% of his passes for 772 yards, 5 touchdowns and 3 interceptions for a passer rating of 89.3 in the month of October.
Defense: Jerod Mayo, LB, New England Patriots - Mayo led New England with 24 tackles in October, including a career-high 11 against the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football.
September winners were: Chris Johnson (RB, Tennessee) and Chris Horton (S, Washington)
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas has become what the Patriots thought he'd be when they signed him to a $35 million dollar contract. Patriots cornerback Ellis Hobbs returned to practice Thursday.
When it comes to the Presidential election, the Buffalo Bills locker room is split. Injuries have hurt the Bills secondary.
Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano might take some practice squad players on the road with the team to show his appreciation for their hard work. Dolphins running back Patrick Cobbs, whose been a versatile member of the offense, signed a two-year contract extension on Thursday.
New York Jets defensive lineman David Bowens is a respected man inside the locker room. Jets guard Alan Faneca says the line has to do a better job of protecting Brett Favre.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Kenny Watson has played a limited role this season. Bengals safety Dexter Jackson was placed on injured reserve.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis knows the offense must be balanced. The Browns have contingency plans for injuries to their specialists.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Troy Smith "knocks down obstacles like dominoes", writes Ken Murray of the Baltimore Sun. The Ravens are a linebacker factory. Jamison Hensley has the keys to the Ravens-Browns game on Sunday.
With Ryan Clark out, Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu has to alter his playing style. Steelers running back Willie Parker is getting closer to returning to the starting lineup.
Houston Texans wide receiver Jacoby Jones is becoming one of the most feared kick returners in the league. Texans linebacker DeMeco Ryans is getting more help these days.
Jacksonville Jaguars offensive line coach Andy Heck assessed the play of the line on Thursday.
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Brandon Jones thinks he would've made it if he stuck with baseball. Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is disappointed that he won't be seeing Brett Favre on Sunday.
Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders is eager to return the lineup. The Colts pass rush knows that opposing offenses are scheming against them.
Denver Broncos cornerback Karl Paymah will be filling in for Champ Bailey. To help the defense, the Broncos must protect the football.
For now, Kansas City Chiefs running back Kolby Smith is the starter. Sorry Chiefs fans: The team avoided a local blackout.
San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith sensed the season was slipping away. Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is looking forward to the second half of the season.
Sunday's Oakland Raiders-Atlanta Falcons will be a battle of young quarterbacks. Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell has been much better at home.
NFC News and Notes
Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber is a workout warrior. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his support for Brad Johnson.
New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins thinks he'll play on Sunday despite a hand injury. The Giants' secondary will be without Kevin Dockery.
The Philadelphia Eagles defense will need to account for Seattle Seahawks tight end John Carlson. Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News scouts the Eagles-Seahawks game.
Before they get a much needed break, the Washington Redskins face a major test on Monday night. Mike Wise did some political polling of the Redskins locker room, and it does not bode well for John McCain.
Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher will return to the starting lineup on Sunday. Bears head coach Lovie Smith said he got some quarterback advice from Barack Obama this spring.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto is sending mixed signals about the possibility of Drew Stanton playing this season. Politics is a common subject within the Lions locker room.
Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson and Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Reinfeldt took similar paths to their current positions. Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings would prefer to wait until after the season before working on a new contract.
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson needs to get in sync with his offensive line. Vikings defensive end Jared Allen will be facing a rookie left tackle on Sunday.
Atlanta Falcons left tackle Wayne Gandy didn't want his career to end on a cart. Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan was named the NFC Rookie of the Month in October. Falcons rookie left tackle Sam Baker had successful back surgery on Thursday.
Undersized Carolina Panthers rookie defensive end Hilee Taylor is off to a fast start.
John DeShazier writes that the New Orleans Saints' revolving door policy at kicker and punter might work for them.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Bennett would like to get more carries. Buccaneers guard Arron Sears may miss Sunday's game after sustaining a concussion in Wednesday's practice.
The Arizona Republic filed this scouting report for this Sunday's Arizona Cardinals-St. Louis Rams game. Three Cardinals were added to the injury report on Thursday.
Seattle Seahawks linebacker D.D. Lewis has filled in for Lofa Tatupu the last two weeks and has played well. Seahawks cornerback Josh Wilson keeps an image of his late father close to his heart.
With Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald coming to town, the St. Louis Rams secondary will have its hand full on Sunday. Rams running back Steven Jackson is "iffy" for Sunday.
San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Singletary dropped his pants at halftime on Sunday.
AFC
Offensive Player of the Month: Andre Johnson, WR, Houston Texans - Johnson had 41 receptions, 593 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the month of October.
Defensive Player of the Month: Joey Porter, LB, Miami Dolphins - Porter had 5.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery as the Dolphins went 2-2 in October.
Special Teams Player of the Month: Stephen Gostkowski, K, New England Patriots - Gostkowski was 9-for-10 on field goal attempts and led the Patriots in scoring in October.
September winners were Jay Cutler (QB, Broncos), Albert Haynesworth (DT, Tennessee) and Darren Sproles (RB/KR, San Diego)
NFC
Offensive Player of the Month: Clinton Portis, RB, Washington Redskins - In 4 games, Portis ran for 575 yards and 4 touchdowns. Portis surpassed 120 yards in all 4 games.
Defensive Player of the Month: Jon Beason, LB, Carolina Panthers - Beason led the Panthers with 37 tackles and two interceptions in October.
Special Teams Player of the Month: Josh Brown, K, St. Louis Rams - Brown was 9-for-10 on field goal attempts and averaged 11 points per game as the Rams went 2-1 on the month.
September winners were: Drew Brees (QB, New Orleans), Charles Woodson (CB, Green Bay) and Sav Rocca (P, Philadelphia)
Rookie of the Month
Offense: Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons - Ryan completed 61% of his passes for 772 yards, 5 touchdowns and 3 interceptions for a passer rating of 89.3 in the month of October.
Defense: Jerod Mayo, LB, New England Patriots - Mayo led New England with 24 tackles in October, including a career-high 11 against the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football.
September winners were: Chris Johnson (RB, Tennessee) and Chris Horton (S, Washington)
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots linebacker Adalius Thomas has become what the Patriots thought he'd be when they signed him to a $35 million dollar contract. Patriots cornerback Ellis Hobbs returned to practice Thursday.
When it comes to the Presidential election, the Buffalo Bills locker room is split. Injuries have hurt the Bills secondary.
Miami Dolphins head coach Tony Sparano might take some practice squad players on the road with the team to show his appreciation for their hard work. Dolphins running back Patrick Cobbs, whose been a versatile member of the offense, signed a two-year contract extension on Thursday.
New York Jets defensive lineman David Bowens is a respected man inside the locker room. Jets guard Alan Faneca says the line has to do a better job of protecting Brett Favre.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Kenny Watson has played a limited role this season. Bengals safety Dexter Jackson was placed on injured reserve.
Cleveland Browns running back Jamal Lewis knows the offense must be balanced. The Browns have contingency plans for injuries to their specialists.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Troy Smith "knocks down obstacles like dominoes", writes Ken Murray of the Baltimore Sun. The Ravens are a linebacker factory. Jamison Hensley has the keys to the Ravens-Browns game on Sunday.
With Ryan Clark out, Pittsburgh Steelers safety Troy Polamalu has to alter his playing style. Steelers running back Willie Parker is getting closer to returning to the starting lineup.
Houston Texans wide receiver Jacoby Jones is becoming one of the most feared kick returners in the league. Texans linebacker DeMeco Ryans is getting more help these days.
Jacksonville Jaguars offensive line coach Andy Heck assessed the play of the line on Thursday.
Tennessee Titans wide receiver Brandon Jones thinks he would've made it if he stuck with baseball. Titans defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth is disappointed that he won't be seeing Brett Favre on Sunday.
Indianapolis Colts safety Bob Sanders is eager to return the lineup. The Colts pass rush knows that opposing offenses are scheming against them.
Denver Broncos cornerback Karl Paymah will be filling in for Champ Bailey. To help the defense, the Broncos must protect the football.
For now, Kansas City Chiefs running back Kolby Smith is the starter. Sorry Chiefs fans: The team avoided a local blackout.
San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith sensed the season was slipping away. Chargers tight end Antonio Gates is looking forward to the second half of the season.
Sunday's Oakland Raiders-Atlanta Falcons will be a battle of young quarterbacks. Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell has been much better at home.
NFC News and Notes
Dallas Cowboys running back Marion Barber is a workout warrior. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his support for Brad Johnson.
New York Giants defensive tackle Fred Robbins thinks he'll play on Sunday despite a hand injury. The Giants' secondary will be without Kevin Dockery.
The Philadelphia Eagles defense will need to account for Seattle Seahawks tight end John Carlson. Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News scouts the Eagles-Seahawks game.
Before they get a much needed break, the Washington Redskins face a major test on Monday night. Mike Wise did some political polling of the Redskins locker room, and it does not bode well for John McCain.
Chicago Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher will return to the starting lineup on Sunday. Bears head coach Lovie Smith said he got some quarterback advice from Barack Obama this spring.
Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Colletto is sending mixed signals about the possibility of Drew Stanton playing this season. Politics is a common subject within the Lions locker room.
Green Bay Packers general manager Ted Thompson and Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Reinfeldt took similar paths to their current positions. Packers wide receiver Greg Jennings would prefer to wait until after the season before working on a new contract.
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson needs to get in sync with his offensive line. Vikings defensive end Jared Allen will be facing a rookie left tackle on Sunday.
Atlanta Falcons left tackle Wayne Gandy didn't want his career to end on a cart. Falcons rookie quarterback Matt Ryan was named the NFC Rookie of the Month in October. Falcons rookie left tackle Sam Baker had successful back surgery on Thursday.
Undersized Carolina Panthers rookie defensive end Hilee Taylor is off to a fast start.
John DeShazier writes that the New Orleans Saints' revolving door policy at kicker and punter might work for them.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Michael Bennett would like to get more carries. Buccaneers guard Arron Sears may miss Sunday's game after sustaining a concussion in Wednesday's practice.
The Arizona Republic filed this scouting report for this Sunday's Arizona Cardinals-St. Louis Rams game. Three Cardinals were added to the injury report on Thursday.
Seattle Seahawks linebacker D.D. Lewis has filled in for Lofa Tatupu the last two weeks and has played well. Seahawks cornerback Josh Wilson keeps an image of his late father close to his heart.
With Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald coming to town, the St. Louis Rams secondary will have its hand full on Sunday. Rams running back Steven Jackson is "iffy" for Sunday.
San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Singletary dropped his pants at halftime on Sunday.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
NFL Injury Report - Thursday, October 30th, 2008
Below is the official "Practice Participation Report" for Thursday, October 30th:
Arizona Cardinals
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Leonard Pope (ankle), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Travis LaBoy (groin), WR Early Doucet (groin), CB Eric Green (knee), WR Sean Morey (hamstring)
Atlanta Falcons
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: T Sam Baker (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Michael Boley (quad), CB Brent Grimes (knee), DT Grady Jackson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion), DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Todd Weiner (knee), LB Stephen Nicholas (quad)
Baltimore Ravens
OUT: S Dawan Landry (neck)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: T Jared Gaither (neck), CB Chris McAlister (knee), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), CB Samari Rolle (neck), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh), RB Willis McGahee (ankle)
Buffalo Bills
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Brad Butler (knee), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
Chicago Bears
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), DT Tommie Harris (knee), P Brad Maynard (not injury related)
Cincinnati Bengals
OUT: WR Andre Caldwell (foot), QB Carson Palmer (elbow), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Glenn Holt (chest)
Cleveland Browns
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Ryan Tucker (knee), FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), DE Corey Williams (shoudler), RB Jamal Lewis (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad), S Sean Jones (knee)
Dallas Cowboys
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Felix Jones (hamstring), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), QB Tony Romo (finger), TE Jason Witten (ribs)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Kyle Kosier (foot)
Denver Broncos
Practice not complete
Detroit Lions
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), RB Jerome Felton (ankle), TE Casey Fitzsimmons (ribs), S Dwight Smith (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Damion Cook (knee), C Adam McCollum (finger), DT Corey Redding (groin), DT Chuck Darby (calf)
Green Bay Packers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Chad Clifton (knees), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
OUT: WR Andre Davis (finger)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Ahman Green (thigh), C Chris Myers (illness)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Dominique Barber (hamstring)
Indianapolis Colts
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring, knee), CB Daymeion Hughes (ankle), LB Freddie Keiaho (knee), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
OUT: WR Mike Walker (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Reggie Williams (hamstring), CB Rashean Mathis (foot)
Kansas City Chiefs
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), LB Weston Dacus (groin), CB Patrick Surtain (quad)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin)
Miami Dolphins
Everyone practiced.
Minnesota Vikings
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB David Herron (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Ray Edwards (knee), TE Garrett Mills (ankle), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Shawn Crable (shin), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Matt Slater (ankle), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder)
New York Giants
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand)
New York Jets
OUT: K Mike Nugent (thigh)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head), T Damien Woody (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: TE Chris Baker (hip), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jon Alston (foot), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), CB DeAngelo Hall (not injury related), RB Darren McFadden (toe), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
OUT: G Shawn Andrews (back)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Jason Avant (trapezius)
Pittsburgh Steelers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), DT Casey Hampton (toe), CB Bryant McFadden (forearm), T Marvel Smith (back), DE Aaron Smith (not injury related), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Drew Bennett (foot), S Todd Johnson (kidney)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Leonard Little (hamstring), DT Adam Carriker (ankle)
Seattle Seahawks
OUT: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Deion Branch (heel)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Will Heller (knee), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), FB Leonard Weaver (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Koren Robinson (knee)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Warrick Dunn (back), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm), G Arron Sears (back)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), QB Brian Griese (elbow), DT Jovan Haye (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Colin Allred (groin), CB Chris Carr (back), DE William Hayes (illness)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Dave Ball (concussion), RB Quinton Ganther (concussion), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)
Washington Redskins
OUT: RB Ladell Betts (knee), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Shawn Springs (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: CB Carlos Rogers (calf)
Arizona Cardinals
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Leonard Pope (ankle), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Travis LaBoy (groin), WR Early Doucet (groin), CB Eric Green (knee), WR Sean Morey (hamstring)
Atlanta Falcons
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: T Sam Baker (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Michael Boley (quad), CB Brent Grimes (knee), DT Grady Jackson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion), DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Todd Weiner (knee), LB Stephen Nicholas (quad)
Baltimore Ravens
OUT: S Dawan Landry (neck)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: T Jared Gaither (neck), CB Chris McAlister (knee), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), CB Samari Rolle (neck), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh), RB Willis McGahee (ankle)
Buffalo Bills
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Brad Butler (knee), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
Chicago Bears
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), DT Tommie Harris (knee), P Brad Maynard (not injury related)
Cincinnati Bengals
OUT: WR Andre Caldwell (foot), QB Carson Palmer (elbow), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Glenn Holt (chest)
Cleveland Browns
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Ryan Tucker (knee), FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), DE Corey Williams (shoudler), RB Jamal Lewis (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad), S Sean Jones (knee)
Dallas Cowboys
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Felix Jones (hamstring), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), QB Tony Romo (finger), TE Jason Witten (ribs)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Kyle Kosier (foot)
Denver Broncos
Practice not complete
Detroit Lions
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), RB Jerome Felton (ankle), TE Casey Fitzsimmons (ribs), S Dwight Smith (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Damion Cook (knee), C Adam McCollum (finger), DT Corey Redding (groin), DT Chuck Darby (calf)
Green Bay Packers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Chad Clifton (knees), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
OUT: WR Andre Davis (finger)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Ahman Green (thigh), C Chris Myers (illness)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Dominique Barber (hamstring)
Indianapolis Colts
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (hamstring, knee), CB Daymeion Hughes (ankle), LB Freddie Keiaho (knee), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
OUT: WR Mike Walker (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Reggie Williams (hamstring), CB Rashean Mathis (foot)
Kansas City Chiefs
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), LB Weston Dacus (groin), CB Patrick Surtain (quad)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin)
Miami Dolphins
Everyone practiced.
Minnesota Vikings
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB David Herron (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Ray Edwards (knee), TE Garrett Mills (ankle), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Shawn Crable (shin), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Matt Slater (ankle), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder)
New York Giants
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand)
New York Jets
OUT: K Mike Nugent (thigh)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head), T Damien Woody (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: TE Chris Baker (hip), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jon Alston (foot), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), CB DeAngelo Hall (not injury related), RB Darren McFadden (toe), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
OUT: G Shawn Andrews (back)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Jason Avant (trapezius)
Pittsburgh Steelers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), DT Casey Hampton (toe), CB Bryant McFadden (forearm), T Marvel Smith (back), DE Aaron Smith (not injury related), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Drew Bennett (foot), S Todd Johnson (kidney)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Leonard Little (hamstring), DT Adam Carriker (ankle)
Seattle Seahawks
OUT: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Deion Branch (heel)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Will Heller (knee), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), FB Leonard Weaver (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Koren Robinson (knee)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Warrick Dunn (back), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm), G Arron Sears (back)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), QB Brian Griese (elbow), DT Jovan Haye (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Colin Allred (groin), CB Chris Carr (back), DE William Hayes (illness)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Dave Ball (concussion), RB Quinton Ganther (concussion), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)
Washington Redskins
OUT: RB Ladell Betts (knee), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Shawn Springs (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: CB Carlos Rogers (calf)
Marlin Jackson Tore His ACL
Adam Schefter of the NFL Network is reporting that Indianapolis Colts cornerback Marlin Jackson tore his ACL and sustained meniscus damage during practice on Wednesday and will be placed on the injured reserve list.
With Jackson out, the Colts will have to start either Daymeion Hughes or Tim Jennings at cornerback.
With Jackson out, the Colts will have to start either Daymeion Hughes or Tim Jennings at cornerback.
NFL News and Notes - October 30th, 2008
Here's your daily spin around the National Football League.
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is enjoying the challenge. Both teams actually having losses heading into this game hasn't diminished the importance of this week's Patriots-Colts game.
Buffalo Bills center Duke Preston has Wally Pipp'd Melvin Fowler. Bills wide receiver Josh Reed is expected to miss Sunday's game against the New York Jets with an Achilles/ankle injury.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter hinted at going after Michael Strahan's single-season sack record. (I mentioned this possibility on Tuesday.) Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington was the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week.
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick is enjoying the challenge. Both teams actually having losses heading into this game hasn't diminished the importance of this week's Patriots-Colts game.
Buffalo Bills center Duke Preston has Wally Pipp'd Melvin Fowler. Bills wide receiver Josh Reed is expected to miss Sunday's game against the New York Jets with an Achilles/ankle injury.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter hinted at going after Michael Strahan's single-season sack record. (I mentioned this possibility on Tuesday.) Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington was the AFC's Offensive Player of the Week.
New York Jets head coach Eric Mangini would like Brett Favre to limit his on-field gambles. Jets tight end Dustin Keller could be used more as a blocker now that Chris Baker and Bubba Franks are battling hip injuries.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has gotten mad at his team, but he hasn't taken to yelling just yet. Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer is disappointed in how his charges played on Sunday.
Cleveland Browns nose tackle Shaun Rogers could play some fullback. Browns wide receiver Joe Jurevicius appears headed towards injured reserve.
Under offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, the Baltimore Ravens are a ball-control offense. Ravens wide receiver Demetrius Williams was placed on injured reserve, and cornerback Chris McAlister may be right behind him.
The NFLPA could file a greivance on behalf of Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes. Steelers safety Anthony Smith is frustrated with his lack of playing time.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub needs to play better away from Reliant Stadium. Texans running back Ahman Green's status for Sunday is unknown.
No suspension has been announced, so Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Matt Jones should be on the field this Sunday. The Jaguars won't take the winless Bengals lightly this week.
Tennessee Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch may play this Sunday. Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean looks at the five things he knows about the Titans.
Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai is expected back this week, which moves Dominic Rhodes back to a reserve role. Colts safety Bob Sanders could return to action this week, as well.
The Denver Broncos safeties have been a weak link on the defense. Broncos rookie left tackle Ryan Clady has yet to give up a sack.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tamba Hali has moved back to his more comfortable left side. Chiefs running back Larry Johnson's status for Sunday is uncertain. Chiefs long-snapper J.P. Darche was placed on injured reserve.
New San Diego Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera told his players that it's up to them to be more accountable for what they do on the field.
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Ronald Curry isn't pleased that he's lost his starting job. Phil Knight may be to blame for Darren McFadden's toe problem. Former Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin filed a grievance with the NFL to recoup the salary he says is owed to him.
NFC News and Notes
Terrell Owens and Plaxico Burress are no different than the other wide receivers whose antics create headlines. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Brooks Bollinger took some snaps with the first-team offense on Wednesday.
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka was named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week. Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress is being double-teamed.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has been more good than bad this season. Eagles tight end L.J. Smith has a concussion and his status for Sunday is unknown.
Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn's "top lieutenants" have had an invaluable impact on the team's hot start. Zorn expects to have Chris Samuels and Santana Moss on Sunday.
The Chicago Bears "smoke and mirrors" offense is thriving without a go-to wide receiver. Once again, Bears return specialist Devin Hester is antsy.
Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli and Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith defended the Tampa-2 defense. When will Marinelli play Drew Stanton?
Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk is the odd man out when the Packers go to their nickel package. John Kuhn is taking over the fullback position for the Packers.
Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker E.J. Henderson is having a hard time with having to sit and watch others play. (I'm sure he has Matt Hasselbeck's sympathy.) Vikings safety Madieu Williams could start on Sunday against Houston.
Former Atlanta Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall can't wait to face his former team on Sunday. Falcons rookie left tackle Sam Baker will undergo back surgery today in California. Atlanta signed veteran tackle Wayne Gandy on Wednesday.
Carolina Panthers rookie running back Jonathan Stewart is adjusting to life in the NFL.
The New Orleans Saints signed a kicker and a punter on Wednesday.
Second-year Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Sabby Piscitelli has moved into the starting lineup. Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden regrets playing Warrick Dunn on Sunday.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't going to curb his penchant for trickeration. Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner is glad he'll be in St. Louis when the Rams honor Dick Vermiel on Sunday. Cardinals tight end Leonard Pope has been ruled "out" for Sunday's game.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Seneca Wallace will make his third straight start on Sunday. Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times writes that Jim Mora's silence increases the speculation that he's interested in the University of Washington job.
Having to face Kurt Warner always makes for a difficult week for St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger. Rams kicker Josh Brown was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
The bye week will give San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Singletary a chance to settle down.
Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis has gotten mad at his team, but he hasn't taken to yelling just yet. Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer is disappointed in how his charges played on Sunday.
Cleveland Browns nose tackle Shaun Rogers could play some fullback. Browns wide receiver Joe Jurevicius appears headed towards injured reserve.
Under offensive coordinator Cam Cameron, the Baltimore Ravens are a ball-control offense. Ravens wide receiver Demetrius Williams was placed on injured reserve, and cornerback Chris McAlister may be right behind him.
The NFLPA could file a greivance on behalf of Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Santonio Holmes. Steelers safety Anthony Smith is frustrated with his lack of playing time.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub needs to play better away from Reliant Stadium. Texans running back Ahman Green's status for Sunday is unknown.
No suspension has been announced, so Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Matt Jones should be on the field this Sunday. The Jaguars won't take the winless Bengals lightly this week.
Tennessee Titans defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch may play this Sunday. Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean looks at the five things he knows about the Titans.
Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai is expected back this week, which moves Dominic Rhodes back to a reserve role. Colts safety Bob Sanders could return to action this week, as well.
The Denver Broncos safeties have been a weak link on the defense. Broncos rookie left tackle Ryan Clady has yet to give up a sack.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Tamba Hali has moved back to his more comfortable left side. Chiefs running back Larry Johnson's status for Sunday is uncertain. Chiefs long-snapper J.P. Darche was placed on injured reserve.
New San Diego Chargers defensive coordinator Ron Rivera told his players that it's up to them to be more accountable for what they do on the field.
Oakland Raiders wide receiver Ronald Curry isn't pleased that he's lost his starting job. Phil Knight may be to blame for Darren McFadden's toe problem. Former Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin filed a grievance with the NFL to recoup the salary he says is owed to him.
NFC News and Notes
Terrell Owens and Plaxico Burress are no different than the other wide receivers whose antics create headlines. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Brooks Bollinger took some snaps with the first-team offense on Wednesday.
New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka was named the NFC's Defensive Player of the Week. Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress is being double-teamed.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb has been more good than bad this season. Eagles tight end L.J. Smith has a concussion and his status for Sunday is unknown.
Washington Redskins head coach Jim Zorn's "top lieutenants" have had an invaluable impact on the team's hot start. Zorn expects to have Chris Samuels and Santana Moss on Sunday.
The Chicago Bears "smoke and mirrors" offense is thriving without a go-to wide receiver. Once again, Bears return specialist Devin Hester is antsy.
Detroit Lions head coach Rod Marinelli and Chicago Bears head coach Lovie Smith defended the Tampa-2 defense. When will Marinelli play Drew Stanton?
Green Bay Packers linebacker A.J. Hawk is the odd man out when the Packers go to their nickel package. John Kuhn is taking over the fullback position for the Packers.
Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker E.J. Henderson is having a hard time with having to sit and watch others play. (I'm sure he has Matt Hasselbeck's sympathy.) Vikings safety Madieu Williams could start on Sunday against Houston.
Former Atlanta Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall can't wait to face his former team on Sunday. Falcons rookie left tackle Sam Baker will undergo back surgery today in California. Atlanta signed veteran tackle Wayne Gandy on Wednesday.
Carolina Panthers rookie running back Jonathan Stewart is adjusting to life in the NFL.
The New Orleans Saints signed a kicker and a punter on Wednesday.
Second-year Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Sabby Piscitelli has moved into the starting lineup. Buccaneers head coach Jon Gruden regrets playing Warrick Dunn on Sunday.
Arizona Cardinals head coach Ken Whisenhunt isn't going to curb his penchant for trickeration. Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner is glad he'll be in St. Louis when the Rams honor Dick Vermiel on Sunday. Cardinals tight end Leonard Pope has been ruled "out" for Sunday's game.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Seneca Wallace will make his third straight start on Sunday. Danny O'Neil of the Seattle Times writes that Jim Mora's silence increases the speculation that he's interested in the University of Washington job.
Having to face Kurt Warner always makes for a difficult week for St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger. Rams kicker Josh Brown was named the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Week.
The bye week will give San Francisco 49ers head coach Mike Singletary a chance to settle down.
Vince Wilfork Avoids Suspension
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork will not be suspended for his hit on Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler. It wasn't picked up on the ESPN broadcast, but the coaching film showed Wilfork going out of his way to hit Cutler, despite the quarterback being well away from the fumble recovery attempt.
Wilfork was fined nearly $50,000 during the 2007 season. In once incident, he lunged elbow-first into Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman's left knee. In another, he poked New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs in the eye.
Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post caught up with Cutler in Dove Valley, who had this to say about the play.
“I think it was on the second fumble. I got rolled up by (Rodney) Harrison and then on my way back up, I think he gave me a forearm to the head,” Cutler said. “I was a little dizzy afterwards. I guess they called it in on him. I didn’t even really watch the hit on film.”
Wilfork is aware of the bad reputation he has throughout the league. "Right now, I got a pretty bad one out there". Wilfork told NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that he'd work on changing that reputation.
"I play hard, and that's one thing I stressed to him - I'm very passionate about the game," Wilfork said. "Sometimes it might be too hard, and I told him that. We'll go from here. I told him I'll try to change my style up a little bit and, hopefully, get a better slate. We hit some areas that needed to be touched on from his standpoint and my standpoint. We both listened to each other, and I think that was the main thing."
How hard is it to not cheapshot quarterbacks? I guess we're about to find out.
Wilfork was fined nearly $50,000 during the 2007 season. In once incident, he lunged elbow-first into Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman's left knee. In another, he poked New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs in the eye.
Lindsay Jones of the Denver Post caught up with Cutler in Dove Valley, who had this to say about the play.
“I think it was on the second fumble. I got rolled up by (Rodney) Harrison and then on my way back up, I think he gave me a forearm to the head,” Cutler said. “I was a little dizzy afterwards. I guess they called it in on him. I didn’t even really watch the hit on film.”
Wilfork is aware of the bad reputation he has throughout the league. "Right now, I got a pretty bad one out there". Wilfork told NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell that he'd work on changing that reputation.
"I play hard, and that's one thing I stressed to him - I'm very passionate about the game," Wilfork said. "Sometimes it might be too hard, and I told him that. We'll go from here. I told him I'll try to change my style up a little bit and, hopefully, get a better slate. We hit some areas that needed to be touched on from his standpoint and my standpoint. We both listened to each other, and I think that was the main thing."
How hard is it to not cheapshot quarterbacks? I guess we're about to find out.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Terrell Owens Saves Michael Irvin From Embarrassment
During the taping of Terrell Owens' weekly television show in Dallas, former Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Michael Irvin nearly spilled the beans about Cowboys owner Jerry Jones' unhappiness with the performance of quarterback Brad Johnson.
Owens reminds him that his microphone can be "heard live" and Irvin abruptly clams up.
Owens reminds him that his microphone can be "heard live" and Irvin abruptly clams up.
Congratulations to the Philadelphia Phillies
Yes, this is a football blog.
Yes, I'm a Boston Red Sox fan.
But congratulations to the Philadelphia Phillies for winning the 2008 World Series.
Yes, I'm a Boston Red Sox fan.
But congratulations to the Philadelphia Phillies for winning the 2008 World Series.
Cowboys' Phillips Names Brad Johnson the Starter...But Who Will Finish?
Dallas Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips has named Brad Johnson the starting quarterback for this Sunday's game against the New York Giants.
Reports out of Dallas are that they won't hesitate to make a change to Brooks Bollinger if Johnson struggles. Phillips is doing his best to diffuse the situation.
"We think we can go with Brad and see what happens," Phillips said Wednesday. "We're not going into the game saying, 'This guy is going and we're going to pull him if he doesn't do anything.' We're going in with a more positive attitude than that."
Not exactly a ringing endorsement for Johnson.
Reports out of Dallas are that they won't hesitate to make a change to Brooks Bollinger if Johnson struggles. Phillips is doing his best to diffuse the situation.
"We think we can go with Brad and see what happens," Phillips said Wednesday. "We're not going into the game saying, 'This guy is going and we're going to pull him if he doesn't do anything.' We're going in with a more positive attitude than that."
Not exactly a ringing endorsement for Johnson.
Saints Sign Kicker, Punter
A day after releasing rookie kicker Taylor Mehlhaff and veteran punter Ben Graham, the New Orleans Saints have signed their replacements.
For a punter, the Saints signed journeyman Glenn Pakulak, who spent the preseason with the Oakland Raiders and has bounced around several teams during his time in the NFL.
Undrafted rookie kicker Garrett Hartley was signed to handle the place-kicking duties. Hartley attended Oklahoma and was signed by the Denver Broncos after the draft. Hartley was not in an NFL training camp this summer.
With the Saints preparing for a playoff run, it's likely that they'll be looking to sign a veteran kicker before their next game on November 9th.
For a punter, the Saints signed journeyman Glenn Pakulak, who spent the preseason with the Oakland Raiders and has bounced around several teams during his time in the NFL.
Undrafted rookie kicker Garrett Hartley was signed to handle the place-kicking duties. Hartley attended Oklahoma and was signed by the Denver Broncos after the draft. Hartley was not in an NFL training camp this summer.
With the Saints preparing for a playoff run, it's likely that they'll be looking to sign a veteran kicker before their next game on November 9th.
NFL Injury Report - Wednesday, October 29th, 2008
Below is the official "Practice Participation Report" for Wednesday, October 29th:
Arizona Cardinals
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Leonard Pope (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Travis LaBoy (groin), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
Atlanta Falcons
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Sam Baker (hip), T Todd Weiner (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Michael Boley (quad), CB Brent Grimes (knee), DT Grady Jackson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion)
Baltimore Ravens
OUT: S Dawan Landry (neck)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Chris McAlister (knee), RB Willis McGahee (ankle), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), T Jared Gaither (neck), TE Todd Heap (neck), CB Samari Rolle (neck), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh)
Buffalo Bills
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Brad Butler (knee), RB Marshawn Lynch (not injury related), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S John Wendling (ankle)
Chicago Bears
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Tommie Harris (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Marty Booker (knee), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder), CB Nathan Vasher (wrist)
Cincinnati Bengals
OUT: WR Andre Caldwell (foot), QB Carson Palmer (elbow), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Domata Peko (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring), WR Glenn Holt (chest), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring), LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
Cleveland Browns
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Sean Jones (knee), G Ryan Tucker (knee), FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), DE Corey Williams (shoudler)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad)
Dallas Cowboys
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Felix Jones (hamstring), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), QB Tony Romo (finger), TE Jason Witten (ribs)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: CB Anthony Henry (thigh), G Kyle Kosier (foot), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring)
Denver Broncos
Practice not complete
Detroit Lions
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Chuck Darby (calf), LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), RB Jerome Felton (ankle), TE Casey Fitzsimmons (ribs), S Dwight Smith (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Damion Cook (knee), C Adam McCollum (finger), DT Corey Redding (groin)
Green Bay Packers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Chad Clifton (knees), DT Ryan Pickett (not injury related), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
OUT: WR Andre Davis (finger)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Ahman Green (thigh), WR Kevin Walter (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Dominique Barber (hamstring)
Indianapolis Colts
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Gary Brackett (not injury related), RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Daymeion Hughes (ankle), CB Marlin Jackson (knee), CB Tim Jennings (not injury related), DE Robert Mathis (not injury related), RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Freddy Keiaho (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
OUT: G Chris Naeole (hand), WR Mike Walker (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Fred Taylor (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Reggie Williams (hamstring)
Kansas City Chiefs
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), LB Weston Dacus (groin), CB Dimitri Patterson (foot), CB Patrick Surtain (quad)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin)
Miami Dolphins
Everyone practiced.
Minnesota Vikings
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB David Herron (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Ray Edwards (knee), TE Garrett Mills (ankle), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Shawn Crable (shin), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Randy Moss (foot), WR Matt Slater (ankle)
New York Giants
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
New York Jets
OUT: K Mike Nugent (thigh)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head), T Damien Woody (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: TE Chris Baker (hip), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jon Alston (foot), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), CB Chris Johnson (back), RB Darren McFadden (toe), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
OUT: G Shawn Andrews (back)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Jason Avant (trapezius), DE Juqua Parker (knee)
Pittsburgh Steelers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), DT Casey Hampton (toe), CB Bryant McFadden (forearm), QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder), T Marvel Smith (back), CB Deshea Townsend (not injury related), WR Hines Ward (not injury related), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Drew Bennett (foot), DT Adam Carriker (ankle), S Todd Johnson (kidney)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Leonard Little (hamstring)
Seattle Seahawks
OUT: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Deion Branch (heel)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Will Heller (knee), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), WR Koren Robinson (knee), FB Leonard Weaver (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Walter Jones (not injury related)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Warrick Dunn (back), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Michael Clayton (knee), DT Chris Hovan (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), G Arron Sears (back), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
Practice not complete
Washington Redskins
OUT: RB Ladell Betts (knee), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Rock Cartwright (knee), WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), G Pete Kendall (knee), S LaRon Landry (hamstring), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), CB Shawn Springs (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DL Lorenzo Alexander (toe), DT Cornelius Griffin (shoulder), T Chris Samuels (knee)
Arizona Cardinals
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Leonard Pope (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Travis LaBoy (groin), TE Ben Patrick (knee)
Atlanta Falcons
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DE Jamaal Anderson (concussion), T Sam Baker (hip), T Todd Weiner (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Michael Boley (quad), CB Brent Grimes (knee), DT Grady Jackson (knee), RB Jerious Norwood (concussion)
Baltimore Ravens
OUT: S Dawan Landry (neck)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Chris McAlister (knee), RB Willis McGahee (ankle), TE Daniel Wilcox (thigh)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Brendon Ayanbadejo (ankle), WR Yamon Figurs (knee), T Jared Gaither (neck), TE Todd Heap (neck), CB Samari Rolle (neck), T Adam Terry (knee), CB Frank Walker (thigh)
Buffalo Bills
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: G Brad Butler (knee), RB Marshawn Lynch (not injury related), WR Josh Reed (ankle), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S John Wendling (ankle)
Chicago Bears
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Tommie Harris (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Marty Booker (knee), LB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder), CB Nathan Vasher (wrist)
Cincinnati Bengals
OUT: WR Andre Caldwell (foot), QB Carson Palmer (elbow), WR Jerome Simpson (ankle)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Domata Peko (ankle)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Jonathan Fanene (hamstring), WR Glenn Holt (chest), S Dexter Jackson (hamstring), LB Rashad Jeanty (foot)
Cleveland Browns
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Sean Jones (knee), G Ryan Tucker (knee), FB Lawrence Vickers (ankle), DE Corey Williams (shoudler)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Mike Adams (hamstring), LB Shantee Orr (foot), DT Shaun Smith (hand), WR Donte Stallworth (quad)
Dallas Cowboys
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Felix Jones (hamstring), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), QB Tony Romo (finger), TE Jason Witten (ribs)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: CB Anthony Henry (thigh), G Kyle Kosier (foot), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring)
Denver Broncos
Practice not complete
Detroit Lions
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: DT Chuck Darby (calf), LB Jordon Dizon (hamstring), RB Jerome Felton (ankle), TE Casey Fitzsimmons (ribs), S Dwight Smith (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: G Damion Cook (knee), C Adam McCollum (finger), DT Corey Redding (groin)
Green Bay Packers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Desmond Bishop (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Chad Clifton (knees), DT Ryan Pickett (not injury related), QB Aaron Rodgers (shoulder), CB Charles Woodson (toe)
Houston Texans
OUT: WR Andre Davis (finger)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Ahman Green (thigh), WR Kevin Walter (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: S Dominique Barber (hamstring)
Indianapolis Colts
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Gary Brackett (not injury related), RB Clifton Dawson (concussion), DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Daymeion Hughes (ankle), CB Marlin Jackson (knee), CB Tim Jennings (not injury related), DE Robert Mathis (not injury related), RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle), TE Tom Santi (shoulder), WR Reggie Wayne (knee)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Freddy Keiaho (knee)
Jacksonville Jaguars
OUT: G Chris Naeole (hand), WR Mike Walker (knee)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Fred Taylor (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Reggie Williams (hamstring)
Kansas City Chiefs
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: P Dustin Colquitt (groin), LB Weston Dacus (groin), CB Dimitri Patterson (foot), CB Patrick Surtain (quad)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Jamaal Charles (ankle), S Jarrad Page (groin)
Miami Dolphins
Everyone practiced.
Minnesota Vikings
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB David Herron (hip)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DE Ray Edwards (knee), TE Garrett Mills (ankle), WR Sidney Rice (knee), S Madieu Williams (neck)
New England Patriots
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Shawn Crable (shin), CB Ellis Hobbs (shoulder), RB Sammy Morris (knee), CB Lewis Sanders (hamstring)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), WR Randy Moss (foot), WR Matt Slater (ankle)
New York Giants
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: CB Kevin Dockery (back), LB Bryan Kehl (toe), DT Fred Robbins (hand), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)
New York Jets
OUT: K Mike Nugent (thigh)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Bubba Franks (hip), LB David Harris (groin), S Eric Smith (head), T Damien Woody (not injury related)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: TE Chris Baker (hip), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), WR Jerricho Cotchery (shoulder), LB Cody Spencer (shoulder)
Oakland Raiders
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: LB Jon Alston (foot), DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), CB Chris Johnson (back), RB Darren McFadden (toe), S Gibril Wilson (toe)
Philadelphia Eagles
OUT: G Shawn Andrews (back)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE L.J. Smith (concussion)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: WR Jason Avant (trapezius), DE Juqua Parker (knee)
Pittsburgh Steelers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: S Ryan Clark (shoulder), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), DT Casey Hampton (toe), CB Bryant McFadden (forearm), QB Ben Roethlisberger (shoulder), T Marvel Smith (back), CB Deshea Townsend (not injury related), WR Hines Ward (not injury related), LB LaMarr Woodley (calf)
St. Louis Rams
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: WR Drew Bennett (foot), DT Adam Carriker (ankle), S Todd Johnson (kidney)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: RB Steven Jackson (thigh), DE Leonard Little (hamstring)
Seattle Seahawks
OUT: QB Matt Hasselbeck (back), WR Deion Branch (heel)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: TE Will Heller (knee), DE Patrick Kerney (shoulder), WR Koren Robinson (knee), FB Leonard Weaver (foot)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: T Walter Jones (not injury related)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Warrick Dunn (back), S Jermaine Phillips (forearm)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: FB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Michael Clayton (knee), DT Chris Hovan (foot), WR Ike Hilliard (shoulder), G Arron Sears (back), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)
Tennessee Titans
Practice not complete
Washington Redskins
OUT: RB Ladell Betts (knee), DE Jason Taylor (calf)
DID NOT PARTICIPATE: RB Rock Cartwright (knee), WR Malcolm Kelly (knee), G Pete Kendall (knee), S LaRon Landry (hamstring), WR Santana Moss (hamstring), RB Clinton Portis (ankle), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), CB Shawn Springs (calf)
LIMITED PARTICIPATION: DL Lorenzo Alexander (toe), DT Cornelius Griffin (shoulder), T Chris Samuels (knee)
Keith Rivers Speaks...Sort Of
Cincinnati Bengals rookie linebacker Keith Rivers, out for the season with a broken jaw, was in the Bengals locker room and it's apparent that he and Hines Ward won't be exchanging Christmas cards.
When asked if the block Ward made on him was clean, Rivers said "What goes around comes around. You reap what you sow."
In case you missed, the play in question is below.
While I can certainly understand Rivers' anger at losing his season, it's hard for me to portray Ward as a dirty player. If all receivers were as physical with their blocking as Ward is, defensive players would always have to keep their heads on a swivel when pursuing ball carriers.
When asked if the block Ward made on him was clean, Rivers said "What goes around comes around. You reap what you sow."
In case you missed, the play in question is below.
While I can certainly understand Rivers' anger at losing his season, it's hard for me to portray Ward as a dirty player. If all receivers were as physical with their blocking as Ward is, defensive players would always have to keep their heads on a swivel when pursuing ball carriers.
Panthers Extend Kasay
The Carolina Panthers have signed 39-year old kicker John Kasay to a 4-year contract extension. Kasay, who represents himself, and the Panthers have declined to discuss the details of Kasay's extension, but Charles Chandler of the Charlotte Observer takes a stab at them.
Kasay currently ranks 14th on the NFL's all-time scoring list, and figures to move into the Top 10 in 2009.
NFL Career Scoring Leader (*-active)
1. Morten Andersen (2,544)
2. Gary Anderson (2,434)
3. George Blanda (2,002)
4. John Carney (1,885)*
5. Matt Stover (1,864)*
6. Jason Elam (1,849)*
7. Norm Johnson (1,736)
8. Nick Lowery (1,711)
9. Jan Stenerud (1,699)
10. Jason Hanson (1,697)*
...
14. John Kasay (1,570)*
Kasay currently ranks 14th on the NFL's all-time scoring list, and figures to move into the Top 10 in 2009.
NFL Career Scoring Leader (*-active)
1. Morten Andersen (2,544)
2. Gary Anderson (2,434)
3. George Blanda (2,002)
4. John Carney (1,885)*
5. Matt Stover (1,864)*
6. Jason Elam (1,849)*
7. Norm Johnson (1,736)
8. Nick Lowery (1,711)
9. Jan Stenerud (1,699)
10. Jason Hanson (1,697)*
...
14. John Kasay (1,570)*
Redskins' Portis Wins October POW Award
Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis has been named the NFC's Offensive Player of the Month award for October.
In a month where the Redskins went 3-1, Portis carried the ball 101 times for 575 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Portis is presently the NFL's leading rusher.
In a month where the Redskins went 3-1, Portis carried the ball 101 times for 575 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Portis is presently the NFL's leading rusher.
Rams' Brown Wins Player of the Month Award
St. Louis Rams kicker Josh Brown has won the NFC's Special Teams Player of the Month award for October. Brown was 9 of 10 on his field goal attempts, including two from 50+ yards.
Brown and the Rams agreed to the highest contract ever awarded to a kicker in the off-season, prying him away from NFC West-rival Seattle.
Brown and the Rams agreed to the highest contract ever awarded to a kicker in the off-season, prying him away from NFC West-rival Seattle.
Saints' Nesbit Suing Supplement Manufacturer
New Orleans Saints guard Jamar Nesbit is suing the manufacturer of the StarCaps weight-loss supplement that resulted in his testing positive for a banned substance.
Nesbit's four-game suspension ended last week.
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk, who also happens to be a lawyer, mentioned that if the appeals by Nesbit's teammates are successful, Nesbit would have a hard time recouping the nearly $250K in salary he's seeking from the manufacturer
Nesbit's four-game suspension ended last week.
Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk, who also happens to be a lawyer, mentioned that if the appeals by Nesbit's teammates are successful, Nesbit would have a hard time recouping the nearly $250K in salary he's seeking from the manufacturer
133 Up for Hall of Fame Consideration
The NFL released it's list of 133 candidates for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009. The list includes 110 former players, 7 coaches and 16 contributors.
25 modern-era candidates will advance to the semifinals, which will then be reduced to 15. The final list up for consideration will be those 15 finalists and two previously announced senior nominees, which this year are Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Bob Hayes and Atlanta Falcons defensive end Claude Humphrey.
Among the nominees, Chris Carter (WR), Andre Reed (WR), Russ Grimm (G), Bob Kuechenberg (G), Randall McDaniel (G), Richard Dent (DE), Derrick Thomas (LB), Ray Guy (P) and Paul Tagliabue (Commissioner) were among the 17 finalists in 2008.
New nominees include tight end Shannon Sharpe, defensive linemen Bruce Smith and John Randle and defensive back Rod Woodson.
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York on Tuesday. Patriots running back Sammy Morris says his knee injury will not end his 2008 season.
Former Buffalo Bills defensive end Bruce Smith is a first-year candidate for the Hall of Fame. Bills safety Donte Whitner went to school on Tuesday.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington went 14-16 for 244 yards on 1st down plays against Buffalo.
The New York Jets raised $16 million during their PSL auction.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson's struggles are emblematic of the team's struggles. Bengals safety John Busing was signed to the active roster.
The Cleveland Browns offensive line is playing better.
David Steele of the Baltimore Sun writes that former Baltimore Colts tight end Raymond Chester belongs in the Hall of Fame.
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark has a dislocated shoulder and will miss Monday's game against Washington. Steelers running back Willie Parker will make another run at returning to the starting lineup this week.
Houston Texans safety Eugene Wilson has been a valuable addition to the Texans secondary. Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is on a historic pace, writes John McClain.
Getting people lined up is the hardest thing about playing safety to Brian Williams of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
By Tuesday morning, the Tennessee Titans had already turned their attention towards the Green Bay Packers. Titans quarterback Kerry Collins has exceeded expectations. '
The highest-paid members of the Indianapolis Colts aren't getting the job done. The Colts offensive line played well on Monday night.
As poorly as the Denver Broncos defense has played this season, without Champ and Boss Bailey, it's about to get worse. Newly signed Broncos wide receiver Chad Jackson was beginning to get antsy while waiting for his phone to ring.
Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York on Tuesday. The Chiefs will not be using the spread offense against Tampa Bay.
Since they're at the bye week, Tuesday was the most ideal time for the San Diego Chargers to fire defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell and replace him with inside linebackers coach Ron Rivera. San Diego found their fall guy, writes Nick Canepa. Rivera brings an aggressive approach, writes Chris Jenkins.
Nancy Gay of the San Francisco Chronicle would like to see the Oakland Raiders unleash quarterback JaMarcus Russell. Raiders linebacker Kirk Morrison was back in the third grade on Tuesday.
NFC News and Notes
Brian Davis of the Dallas Morning News has a "mid-season report" of the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys are 8.5-point underdogs against the New York Giants on Sunday.
The New York Giants re-signed quarterback Andre Woodson to their practice squad. Giants defensive end Justin Tuck doesn't want to hear excuses as the Cowboys come to town. Because the Giants have won, Plaxico Burress hasn't had to apologize for his antics.
The Philadelphia Eagles offense has struggled in short-yardage situations this season. Bob Brookover of the Philadelphia Inquirer looks at the possible contract extensions the Eagles could be working on.
Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell went to school on Tuesday. Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss isn't concerned about being able to handle his workload.
Playing as a unit has been the key to the success of the Chicago Bears offense. Bears rookie tackle Chris Williams could be active on Sunday.
Free agent quarterback Daunte Culpepper worked out for the Detroit Lions on Tuesday. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli thinks the have something special in rookie defensive end Cliff Avril.
Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel looks at the six Green Bay Packers who have made the most of their opportunities this season. Packers defensive tackle Johnny Jolly was in a Houston courtroom on Tuesday.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice says he's close to being 100% healthy. Vikings wide receiver Bernard Berrian questioned the reliability of the hotline NFL players call to verify whether or not a substance is alright to take.
Atlanta Falcons kicker Jason Elam was back in his old neighborhood on Tuesday. Falcons rookie left Sam Baker will seek a second opinion on his hip and will miss Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett is pushing for more playing time. Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams has been an adult about the presence of Jonathan Stewart, writes Darin Gantt.
The New Orleans Saints gave their kicker and punter the boot on Tuesday. Saints head coach Sean Payton wants his team to finish better.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running Warrick Dunn's life is laid out in the pages of My Life: My Journey in the Game of Football and Beyond, which goes on sale next Tuesday. The Buccaneers have been a pass-happy team.
If the Arizona Cardinals re-signed Kurt Warner, what will become of Matt Leinart? The Cardinals signed tight end Stephen Spach and released safety Oliver Celestin on Tuesday. Former Cardinals running back Larry Centers, punter Rich Camarillo and current offensive line coach Russ Grimm are among those up for Hall of Fame consideration.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will not need surgery on his back, but he still has not been cleared to play. Seahawks rookie defensive end Lawrence Jackson benefited from reading "The Inner Game of Tennis".
Former St. Louis Rams head coach Dick Vermeil will be added to the team's Ring of Honor during halftime of Sunday's Rams-Cardinals game.
Of the eight games remaining on the San Francisco 49ers schedule, five will come on the road. Head coach Mike Singletary's "fiery attitude" won't be enough to turn around the 49ers.
25 modern-era candidates will advance to the semifinals, which will then be reduced to 15. The final list up for consideration will be those 15 finalists and two previously announced senior nominees, which this year are Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Bob Hayes and Atlanta Falcons defensive end Claude Humphrey.
Among the nominees, Chris Carter (WR), Andre Reed (WR), Russ Grimm (G), Bob Kuechenberg (G), Randall McDaniel (G), Richard Dent (DE), Derrick Thomas (LB), Ray Guy (P) and Paul Tagliabue (Commissioner) were among the 17 finalists in 2008.
New nominees include tight end Shannon Sharpe, defensive linemen Bruce Smith and John Randle and defensive back Rod Woodson.
AFC News and Notes
New England Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York on Tuesday. Patriots running back Sammy Morris says his knee injury will not end his 2008 season.
Former Buffalo Bills defensive end Bruce Smith is a first-year candidate for the Hall of Fame. Bills safety Donte Whitner went to school on Tuesday.
Miami Dolphins quarterback Chad Pennington went 14-16 for 244 yards on 1st down plays against Buffalo.
The New York Jets raised $16 million during their PSL auction.
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson's struggles are emblematic of the team's struggles. Bengals safety John Busing was signed to the active roster.
The Cleveland Browns offensive line is playing better.
David Steele of the Baltimore Sun writes that former Baltimore Colts tight end Raymond Chester belongs in the Hall of Fame.
Pittsburgh Steelers safety Ryan Clark has a dislocated shoulder and will miss Monday's game against Washington. Steelers running back Willie Parker will make another run at returning to the starting lineup this week.
Houston Texans safety Eugene Wilson has been a valuable addition to the Texans secondary. Texans wide receiver Andre Johnson is on a historic pace, writes John McClain.
Getting people lined up is the hardest thing about playing safety to Brian Williams of the Jacksonville Jaguars.
By Tuesday morning, the Tennessee Titans had already turned their attention towards the Green Bay Packers. Titans quarterback Kerry Collins has exceeded expectations. '
The highest-paid members of the Indianapolis Colts aren't getting the job done. The Colts offensive line played well on Monday night.
As poorly as the Denver Broncos defense has played this season, without Champ and Boss Bailey, it's about to get worse. Newly signed Broncos wide receiver Chad Jackson was beginning to get antsy while waiting for his phone to ring.
Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in New York on Tuesday. The Chiefs will not be using the spread offense against Tampa Bay.
Since they're at the bye week, Tuesday was the most ideal time for the San Diego Chargers to fire defensive coordinator Ted Cottrell and replace him with inside linebackers coach Ron Rivera. San Diego found their fall guy, writes Nick Canepa. Rivera brings an aggressive approach, writes Chris Jenkins.
Nancy Gay of the San Francisco Chronicle would like to see the Oakland Raiders unleash quarterback JaMarcus Russell. Raiders linebacker Kirk Morrison was back in the third grade on Tuesday.
NFC News and Notes
Brian Davis of the Dallas Morning News has a "mid-season report" of the Dallas Cowboys. The Cowboys are 8.5-point underdogs against the New York Giants on Sunday.
The New York Giants re-signed quarterback Andre Woodson to their practice squad. Giants defensive end Justin Tuck doesn't want to hear excuses as the Cowboys come to town. Because the Giants have won, Plaxico Burress hasn't had to apologize for his antics.
The Philadelphia Eagles offense has struggled in short-yardage situations this season. Bob Brookover of the Philadelphia Inquirer looks at the possible contract extensions the Eagles could be working on.
Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell went to school on Tuesday. Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss isn't concerned about being able to handle his workload.
Playing as a unit has been the key to the success of the Chicago Bears offense. Bears rookie tackle Chris Williams could be active on Sunday.
Free agent quarterback Daunte Culpepper worked out for the Detroit Lions on Tuesday. Lions head coach Rod Marinelli thinks the have something special in rookie defensive end Cliff Avril.
Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel looks at the six Green Bay Packers who have made the most of their opportunities this season. Packers defensive tackle Johnny Jolly was in a Houston courtroom on Tuesday.
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Sidney Rice says he's close to being 100% healthy. Vikings wide receiver Bernard Berrian questioned the reliability of the hotline NFL players call to verify whether or not a substance is alright to take.
Atlanta Falcons kicker Jason Elam was back in his old neighborhood on Tuesday. Falcons rookie left Sam Baker will seek a second opinion on his hip and will miss Sunday's game against the Oakland Raiders.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett is pushing for more playing time. Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams has been an adult about the presence of Jonathan Stewart, writes Darin Gantt.
The New Orleans Saints gave their kicker and punter the boot on Tuesday. Saints head coach Sean Payton wants his team to finish better.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running Warrick Dunn's life is laid out in the pages of My Life: My Journey in the Game of Football and Beyond, which goes on sale next Tuesday. The Buccaneers have been a pass-happy team.
If the Arizona Cardinals re-signed Kurt Warner, what will become of Matt Leinart? The Cardinals signed tight end Stephen Spach and released safety Oliver Celestin on Tuesday. Former Cardinals running back Larry Centers, punter Rich Camarillo and current offensive line coach Russ Grimm are among those up for Hall of Fame consideration.
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will not need surgery on his back, but he still has not been cleared to play. Seahawks rookie defensive end Lawrence Jackson benefited from reading "The Inner Game of Tennis".
Former St. Louis Rams head coach Dick Vermeil will be added to the team's Ring of Honor during halftime of Sunday's Rams-Cardinals game.
Of the eight games remaining on the San Francisco 49ers schedule, five will come on the road. Head coach Mike Singletary's "fiery attitude" won't be enough to turn around the 49ers.
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