Nolan Fired-Singletary to take over-That Makes Two Bay area Coaches Fired In the Same Month!!

Even though we had heard that the York Family were unhappy with the current situation, we would have thought they would have let Mike Nolan finish out the 2008 season. Then the "Winds" began to blow like they always do at Candlestick Point. except these winds had a wisper on them. " We're going to replace Nolan after the Seahawks game" said those winds. Then tonight we heard "Why Wait! let's get it over with Now." My Only concern is This: Mike Singletary is a Quality Coordinator, a Hall Of Fame retired player, and a good decent man. But if you were labeling the defensive play as the main problem with the 2008 49ers team, then why would you promote the defensive coordinator? True, Defense was Nolan's forte. He was the Man that Rebuilt the Giants Defense after the collapse of the mid-to-late 1990's, and brought them to SB XXXV (i Think Nolan had more to do with that team's success then Fast Jimmy Fassel did! Call me crazy but...). So now the Job is Singletary's for the forseeable future. Will he bring In his Nephew?(an Asst. For Coach Turner Gill at the University of Buffalo) I'm sure for the rest of this season the remaining staff stays intact. Will He Replace Mike Martz? and When? I Hear Dick Vermiel is available as a special consultant in between rounds of Golf! Oh!! did i Blow IT?!? Isn't that who Al Davis wants to hire as General Manager? Don't laugh because it wouldn't be a bad move for either team.

NFL WEEK 7 INJURY REPORT Week 7 Games (October 19-20) – THURSDAY

WEEK 7 INJURY REPORT – THURSDAY

Following is a list of injured players for Week 7 Games (October 19-20):


BALTIMORE RAVENS at MIAMI DOLPHINS

BALTIMORE RAVENS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
S Dawan Landry (neck), CB Samari Rolle (shoulder, neck)

Thursday
S Dawan Landry (neck), CB Samari Rolle (shoulder, neck)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Yamon Figurs (knee), T Adam Terry (knee), WR Demetrius Williams (ankle)

Thursday
WR Yamon Figurs (knee), S Ed Reed (hamstring), T Adam Terry (knee)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Jared Gaither (neck), CB Fabian Washington (shoulder), S Tom Zbikowski (shoulder)

Thursday
T Jared Gaither (neck), CB Fabian Washington (shoulder), WR Demetrius Williams (ankle), S Tom Zbikowski (shoulder)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DT Lamar Divens (illness)

Thursday
DT Lamar Divens (illness)

MIAMI DOLPHINS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB Casey Cramer (ankle)

Thursday
RB Casey Cramer (ankle), CB Andre' Goodman (not injury related)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Will Allen (knee)

Thursday
CB Will Allen (knee)



CLEVELAND BROWNS at WASHINGTON REDSKINS

CLEVELAND BROWNS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
DT Shaun Smith (hand)

Thursday
DT Shaun Smith (hand)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Ryan Tucker (knee), TE Kellen Winslow (illness)

Thursday
RB Lawrence Vickers (not injury related), TE Kellen Winslow (illness)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Brodney Pool (ankle), T Kevin Shaffer (concussion)

Thursday
T Kevin Shaffer (concussion), T Ryan Tucker (knee)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
RB Ladell Betts (knee)

Thursday
RB Ladell Betts (knee)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Chris Horton (ankle), G Pete Kendall (knee), RB Clinton Portis (hip), T Chris Samuels (ankle)

Thursday
S Chris Horton (ankle), RB Clinton Portis (hip), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), T Chris Samuels (ankle), DE Jason Taylor (calf)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Khary Campbell (calf), CB Carlos Rogers (calf), CB Fred Smoot (groin)

Thursday
LB Khary Campbell (calf), CB Fred Smoot (groin)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
G Pete Kendall (knee), CB Shawn Springs (calf)



DALLAS COWBOYS at ST. LOUIS RAMS

DALLAS COWBOYS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Thursday
WR Sam Hurd (ankle)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Kevin Burnett (calf), WR Sam Hurd (ankle), RB Felix Jones (hamstring), G Kyle Kosier (foot), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), QB Tony Romo (right finger), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring)

Thursday
LB Kevin Burnett (calf), RB Felix Jones (hamstring), G Kyle Kosier (foot), CB Terence Newman (abdomen), LB Anthony Spencer (hamstring)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Keith Davis (thumb), DT Tank Johnson (ankle)

Thursday
S Keith Davis (thumb), DT Tank Johnson (ankle), QB Tony Romo (right finger)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Pat Watkins (neck), S Roy Williams (forearm)

Thursday
S Pat Watkins (neck), S Roy Williams (forearm)

ST. LOUIS RAMS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Drew Bennett (foot), CB Tye Hill (knee)

Thursday
WR Drew Bennett (foot), CB Tye Hill (knee), T Orlando Pace (thigh), RB Antonio Pittman (lower leg)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Orlando Pace (thigh), RB Antonio Pittman (lower leg)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
G Jacob Bell (foot), QB Marc Bulger (right finger), WR Keenan Burton (knee), WR Dane Looker (concussion)

Thursday
CB Ron Bartell (shoulder), G Jacob Bell (foot), QB Marc Bulger (right finger), WR Keenan Burton (knee)



DETROIT LIONS at HOUSTON TEXANS

DETROIT LIONS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DT Chuck Darby (calf), WR Calvin Johnson (concussion), RB Kevin Smith (shoulder)

Thursday
DT Chuck Darby (calf)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Travis Fisher (knee), G Stephen Peterman (hand), DE Corey Smith (hamstring)

Thursday
CB Travis Fisher (knee), G Stephen Peterman (hand), DE Corey Smith (hamstring)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
WR Calvin Johnson (concussion), RB Kevin Smith (shoulder)

HOUSTON TEXANS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Dominique Barber (hamstring), RB Chris Taylor (quadricep)

Thursday
S Dominique Barber (hamstring), RB Chris Taylor (quadricep)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Duane Brown (ankle), TE Mark Bruener (hamstring), RB Ahman Green (foot)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
T Duane Brown (ankle), TE Mark Bruener (hamstring), RB Ahman Green (foot)



INDIANAPOLIS COLTS at GREEN BAY PACKERS

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB Joseph Addai (hamstring), DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (knee), LB Freddy Keiaho (groin), DE Robert Mathis (not injury related), TE Gijon Robinson (ankle), S Bob Sanders (knee)

Thursday
RB Joseph Addai (hamstring), LB Gary Brackett (not injury related), WR Roy Hall (knee), CB Kelvin Hayden (knee), CB Tim Jennings (not injury related), TE Gijon Robinson (ankle), S Bob Sanders (knee)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
DE Dwight Freeney (not injury related), LB Freddy Keiaho (groin), DE Robert Mathis (not injury related)

GREEN BAY PACKERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
S Atari Bigby (hamstring), DE Jason Hunter (hamstring), CB Patrick Lee (back), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle), DT Ryan Pickett (tricep), CB Charles Woodson (toe)

Thursday
DE Jason Hunter (hamstring), DE Mike Montgomery (ankle), DT Ryan Pickett (tricep), CB Charles Woodson (toe)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Chad Clifton (hamstring), CB Al Harris (spleen), WR James Jones (knee), QB Aaron Rodgers (right shoulder)

Thursday
S Atari Bigby (hamstring), T Chad Clifton (hamstring), CB Al Harris (spleen), WR James Jones (knee), CB Patrick Lee (back), QB Aaron Rodgers (right shoulder), C Scott Wells (shoulder, chest)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB A.J. Hawk (groin), S Aaron Rouse (concussion)

Thursday
LB A.J. Hawk (groin)



MINNESOTA VIKINGS at CHICAGO BEARS

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Erin Henderson (knee), LB David Herron (hip)

Thursday
LB David Herron (hip)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Bernard Berrian (knee), TE Jim Kleinsasser (foot), WR Sidney Rice (knee), CB Benny Sapp (hamstring), S Madieu Williams (neck)

Thursday
WR Bernard Berrian (knee), LB Erin Henderson (knee), TE Jim Kleinsasser (foot), WR Sidney Rice (knee), CB Benny Sapp (hamstring), S Madieu Williams (neck)

CHICAGO BEARS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Marty Booker (back), RB Matt Forté (not injury related), WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder)

Thursday
WR Brandon Lloyd (knee), S Danieal Manning (hamstring), P Brad Maynard (left hamstring), CB Charles Tillman (shoulder)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Rashied Davis (knee), CB Marcus Hamilton (heel), DT Tommie Harris (knee), DT Marcus Harrison (ankle), DT Israel Idonije (ankle), P Brad Maynard (left hamstring), CB Trumaine McBride (shoulder), LB Nick Roach (shoulder), CB Nathan Vasher (wrist)

Thursday
WR Marty Booker (back), WR Rashied Davis (knee), DT Tommie Harris (knee), DT Marcus Harrison (ankle), WR Devin Hester (toe), DT Israel Idonije (ankle), CB Trumaine McBride (shoulder), LB Nick Roach (shoulder), CB Nathan Vasher (wrist)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
CB Marcus Hamilton (heel)



NEW ORLEANS SAINTS at CAROLINA PANTHERS

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB Reggie Bush (knee), DT Sedrick Ellis (knee), G Jahri Evans (ankle), DT Antwan Lake (groin), CB Mike McKenzie (knee), G Carl Nicks (illness)

Thursday
RB Reggie Bush (knee), DT Sedrick Ellis (knee)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Marques Colston (thumb), CB Aaron Glenn (ankle), S Kevin Kaesviharn (back), TE Jeremy Shockey (hernia)

Thursday
WR Marques Colston (thumb), G Jahri Evans (ankle), CB Aaron Glenn (ankle), S Kevin Kaesviharn (back), DT Antwan Lake (groin), CB Mike McKenzie (knee), TE Jeremy Shockey (hernia)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
G Carl Nicks (illness)

CAROLINA PANTHERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR D.J. Hackett (knee)

Thursday
WR D.J. Hackett (knee), C Ryan Kalil (ankle), T Jeff Otah (ankle)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Thomas Davis (ankle), C Ryan Kalil (ankle), WR Muhsin Muhammad (knee), T Jeff Otah (ankle), LB Adam Seward (thigh)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
LB Thomas Davis (ankle), WR Muhsin Muhammad (knee), LB Adam Seward (thigh)



NEW YORK JETS at OAKLAND RAIDERS

NEW YORK JETS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
K Mike Nugent (right thigh)

Thursday
K Mike Nugent (right thigh)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR David Clowney (shoulder), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), DT Kris Jenkins (back), LB Bryan Thomas (calf)

Thursday
WR David Clowney (shoulder), WR Laveranues Coles (thigh), DT Kris Jenkins (back), LB Calvin Pace (foot), LB Bryan Thomas (calf)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Justin Miller (foot)

Thursday
CB Justin Miller (foot)

OAKLAND RAIDERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DE Derrick Burgess (tricep)

Thursday
DE Derrick Burgess (tricep), TE Ben Troupe (foot)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Nnamdi Asomugha (elbow), LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (shoulder)

Thursday
LB Isaiah Ekejiuba (shoulder)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
CB Nnamdi Asomugha (elbow)



PITTSBURGH STEELERS at CINCINNATI BENGALS

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Dallas Baker (shoulder), RB Carey Davis (ankle), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), DT Casey Hampton (groin), RB Willie Parker (knee), T Marvel Smith (back), WR Hines Ward (not injury related)

Thursday
WR Dallas Baker (shoulder), RB Carey Davis (ankle), LB Keyaron Fox (hamstring), RB Willie Parker (knee), T Marvel Smith (back)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
DT Casey Hampton (groin)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
WR Hines Ward (not injury related)

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
C Kyle Cook (toe), LB Corey Mays (ankle), QB Carson Palmer (right elbow)

Thursday
C Kyle Cook (toe), LB Corey Mays (ankle), QB Carson Palmer (right elbow)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring), K Shayne Graham (right groin), WR Glenn Holt (ankle), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (ankle), LB Dhani Jones (foot), S Herana-Daze Jones (hamstring), T Levi Jones (back), CB Johnathan Joseph (ankle), RB Chris Perry (shoulder), TE Ben Utecht (chest)

Thursday
CB Jamar Fletcher (hamstring), WR Glenn Holt (ankle), S Herana-Daze Jones (hamstring)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
K Shayne Graham (right groin), WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh (ankle), TE Ben Utecht (chest)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DT John Thornton (achilles)

Thursday
LB Dhani Jones (foot), T Levi Jones (back), CB Johnathan Joseph (ankle), RB Chris Perry (shoulder), DT John Thornton (achilles)



SAN DIEGO CHARGERS at BUFFALO BILLS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Chris Chambers (ankle), WR Craig Davis (groin), RB Darren Sproles (ankle), RB LaDainian Tomlinson (toe), LB Jyles Tucker (hamstring)

Thursday
WR Chris Chambers (ankle), WR Craig Davis (groin), LB Jyles Tucker (hamstring)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB Mike Tolbert (ankle), S Eric Weddle (shoulder)

Thursday
RB Darren Sproles (ankle), RB Mike Tolbert (ankle)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Marques Harris (hamstring)

Thursday
LB Marques Harris (hamstring), RB LaDainian Tomlinson (toe), S Eric Weddle (shoulder)

BUFFALO BILLS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Terrence McGee (knee), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)

Thursday
C Melvin Fowler (elbow), CB Terrence McGee (knee), DE Aaron Schobel (foot)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
TE Derek Fine (hand), WR Roscoe Parrish (hand)

Thursday
TE Derek Fine (hand), CB Ashton Youboty (foot)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
QB Trent Edwards (head), S Ko Simpson (hamstring)

Thursday
QB Trent Edwards (head), WR Roscoe Parrish (hand), S Ko Simpson (hamstring)



SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS at NEW YORK GIANTS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
CB Shawntae Spencer (knee)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
CB Walt Harris (not injury related), T Jonas Jennings (shoulder), S Mark Roman (knee)

Thursday
T Jonas Jennings (shoulder)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB Frank Gore (not injury related), LB Manny Lawson (hamstring), CB Donald Strickland (hip)

Thursday
LB Manny Lawson (hamstring), S Mark Roman (knee), CB Donald Strickland (hip)

NEW YORK GIANTS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
C Shaun O'Hara (toe), LB Antonio Pierce (quadricep), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)

Thursday
LB Antonio Pierce (quadricep), LB Gerris Wilkinson (knee)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
C Shaun O'Hara (toe)



TENNESSEE TITANS at KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

TENNESSEE TITANS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DT Tony Brown (ankle), WR Justin Gage (knee), DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)

Thursday
DT Tony Brown (ankle), WR Justin Gage (knee), WR Justin McCareins (hamstring)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Justin McCareins (hamstring)

Thursday
DE Kyle Vanden Bosch (groin)

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Jeff Webb (not injury related)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Thursday
TE John Paul Foschi (foot), CB Patrick Surtain (shoulder)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Branden Albert (elbow), QB Brodie Croyle (right shoulder), LB Donnie Edwards (ankle)

Thursday
T Branden Albert (elbow), QB Brodie Croyle (right shoulder), LB Donnie Edwards (ankle)



SEATTLE SEAHAWKS at TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Practice Report
   
OUT (DEFINITELY WILL NOT PLAY)

Wednesday
QB Matt Hasselbeck (back)

Thursday
QB Matt Hasselbeck (back)

   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
WR Deion Branch (heel), S Deon Grant (knee), TE Will Heller (knee), WR Koren Robinson (knee)

Thursday
WR Deion Branch (heel), TE Will Heller (knee)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Walter Jones (not injury related), QB Seneca Wallace (calf)

Thursday
S Deon Grant (knee), T Walter Jones (not injury related), QB Seneca Wallace (calf)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
DE Patrick Kerney (neck), S C.J. Wallace (knee)

Thursday
DE Patrick Kerney (neck), WR Koren Robinson (knee), S C.J. Wallace (knee)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
RB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)

Thursday
RB B.J. Askew (hamstring), WR Maurice Stovall (hamstring)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
K Matt Bryant (right hamstring), RB Warrick Dunn (not injury related), WR Joey Galloway (foot), QB Brian Griese (right elbow), LB Barrett Ruud (knee), G Arron Sears (knee)

Thursday
K Matt Bryant (right hamstring), WR Joey Galloway (foot), QB Brian Griese (right elbow), G Arron Sears (knee)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Derrick Brooks (hamstring)

Thursday
LB Derrick Brooks (hamstring), LB Barrett Ruud (knee)



DENVER BRONCOS at NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS on Monday night

DENVER BRONCOS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Boss Bailey (ankle), WR Brandon Stokley (concussion)

Thursday
WR Brandon Stokley (concussion)

   
LIMITED PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
TE Tony Scheffler (groin), RB Ryan Torain (elbow), RB Selvin Young (groin)

Thursday
TE Tony Scheffler (groin), RB Ryan Torain (elbow), RB Selvin Young (groin)

   
FULL PARTICIPATION IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
T Ryan Clady (groin), DE Elvis Dumervil (finger), DE Ebenezer Ekuban (groin), DE John Engelberger (knee), TE Daniel Graham (finger), WR Darrell Jackson (calf), RB Spencer Larsen (groin), S Marquand Manuel (thumb), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee), WR Eddie Royal (ankle), DT Josh Shaw (groin)

Thursday
LB Boss Bailey (ankle), T Ryan Clady (groin), DE Elvis Dumervil (finger), DE Ebenezer Ekuban (groin), DE John Engelberger (knee), TE Daniel Graham (finger), WR Darrell Jackson (calf), RB Spencer Larsen (groin), S Marquand Manuel (thumb), DT Dewayne Robertson (knee), WR Eddie Royal (ankle), DT Josh Shaw (groin)

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

Practice Report
   
DID NOT PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE

Wednesday
LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), T Matt Light (knee), RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder), WR Kelley Washington (ankle)

Thursday
LB Eric Alexander (hamstring), DE Jarvis Green (ankle), RB LaMont Jordan (calf), T Nick Kaczur (ankle), RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder), WR Kelley Washington (ankle), CB Jonathan Wilhite (flu)

NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL FALL MEETING ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 15, 2008 - NFL Media.com

NFL COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL FALL MEETING ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 15, 2008

RE: Lengthening the regular season to 17 or 18 games.

…to support our relationship with our fans, because of the length of the season. That included weather conditions, with the potential for the season to go into late February. It involved, obviously, our relationship with the players, our relationships with media companies and the quality of the preseason. We’ve discussed this also in the context of the offseason. Again, that goes to the part about football readiness and how there’s greater interest from our fans of having a longer and deeper relationship with the NFL all year round.

I’m not suggesting playing games all year, but there was a suggestion about idea of a spring game of some type. A preseason-type game.

Q: You don’t want to give us an offseason, do you?

RG: We know you don’t want one.

Q: Any suggestion that two preseason games would hurt the evaluation process for teams as they make their final roster cuts?

RG: I think that’s what we mean about football readiness. I think that has to be evaluated. From a football perspective, there are two purposes. One, you want to get your team ready. Two, you make your evaluations of who will make your team. Those are the two primary objectives. We want to make sure teams have the ability to do that.

The likelihood is that teams will adjust to this, work in more scrimmages or other ways to evaluate players. The second point is, and I think I mentioned this yesterday, a developmental league of some type. That’s another question that a lot of clubs raised: how do we continue to develop our players?

Q: Before there is a vote on this, will the proposal include a definitive number (17 or 18 games), or will there be more discussion as the CBA negotiations move along?

RG: First, we have a lot more work to do on the analysis. This is something we will continue to pursue and will continue to evaluate. Eventually, we’ll have to decide strategically which proposal would be most beneficial to our players, our media partners, and other parties involved.

Q: Do you have a timetable for when you’ll decide on a proposal and then make it?

RG: We’re working on a proposal now. The major focus is analyzing the labor agreement and assessing the impact that this could bring to the table. We’re talking about cost recognition, the overall economics of the labor agreement, including stadium construction, retired players, and potential of expanding to more regular season games within the 20-game format. All of those things are factors that we’re considering.


Q: Is it clear whether or not the proposal will be 17 or 18 games yet?

RG: There are different viewpoints on that. I would say the prevailing thought that I sensed in the room was that it would be 18 games rather than 17 right now. People were still debating that.

RE: Are you exploring expanding the number of teams in the playoffs?

RG: There was some discussion of that. That came up. Some folks thought that was important to consider and include. Others had a different view on that also.

Q: What is your personal preference?

RG: We have to evaluate it a little bit more. I think it should be very special to get to post-season. I think to set a bar where to make it into post-season you have to achieve success, and make that special, is something we should continue.

RE: Super Bowl ticket prices

RG: The core prices have been set. We’re still evaluating some things.

RE: NFLN and whether there is any chance that negotiations with Comcast will be restarted before there’s a ruling by the judge

RG: We would hope so. We still believe that this should be settled at the negotiating table. Ultimately, that’s what’s in the best interest of all parties, most particularly the consumers. We would like to engage in a dialogue. We think the FCC ruling is significant from the standpoint that it is very clear that there is discrimination. We would like to get that done either at the negotiating table, or if we’re forced, to go through the process with the judge.

RE: When the last negotiations took place with Comcast?

RG: I’ll have to get back to you on that.

RE: Issue of players being fined after the game on plays that did not draw a penalty

RG: It’s always been an issue. That’s not new or recent. We’ve had that over the years, and it happens. When you see something that’s an illegal technique or something that we think that’s not proper and it wasn’t called, we’ll take whatever actions are appropriate to make sure the player and the coach understands that’s not permissible.

Q: You don’t feel it weakens the officials’ calls?

RG: I don’t think so. I think they do a great job.

RE: The role the economy will play in the upcoming season for the league and the clubs

That’s a pretty broad question, but the reality is it’s going to impact us. The economy is impacting us directly, and our business partners and our fans. So we’re sensitive to that, and we’re looking at everything we do, whether it’s our facilities, our stadium financing, or our pricing at the club level. We’re looking at all of those issues to determine how to best work our way through this.

RE: Do you get a sense from the union that they are more sensitive to the risks the owners are taking on?

RG: I really believe the players recognize what’s going on out there. Our business isn’t immune. This is a very significant time with what’s happening with the economy. And I don’t believe our players would be insensitive to that either.

Q: Is that based on conversations with union executives or individual players?

RG: I have had discussions with union executives and with players.

RE: Is there a change? Previously, they ignored your complaints.  Has there been a change in emphasis?

RG: I wouldn’t agree that they ignored it. Obviously, the developments over the last couple weeks… We’ve seen this coming for quite some time. We’ve discussed this publicly and privately. There are risks in the marketplace. These risks are shifted to the owners and that’s a significant risk that usually results in difficult economic consequences. That’s what we’re seeing in the market. I think the players recognize that, certainly in the economy we’re in right now. 

RE: Priority on security for the Super Bowl

RG: People derive comfort from knowing that we’re taking significant steps to ensure their safety. People come to our stadiums and want to know they’re safe. This Sunday here in Tampa you saw a good example of that. We had the pat downs and want to be able to accomplish that. People seemed to be generally accepting of it. People recognize it’s part of an everyday reality. We have a significant initiative to improve the experience at the stadium, not only security but making sure people feel comfortable.

Q: What’s the priority for you in terms of ensuring that fan behavior is within these standards?

RG: The big issue to me is making sure that everyone who comes to our stadium enjoys the event and that nobody stays away from our stadiums because of others’ behavior. There was a point made in our presentation this morning that one individual’s actions can affect up to 20 people’s view of the experience at the stadium.  Most of the people who come to our stadiums come and enjoy them and have a great time. Unfortunately, somebody can behave in such a manner that can ruin it for a lot of other people. If they do, we are going to deal with it properly. First action is taken in the stadium, and the second is to revoke their ticket privileges.

Q: Is adding two more teams to the playoffs two total or two per conference?

RG: We haven’t gotten into the specifics of it. There have been proposals over the last 10 years or so of extending the playoffs.


RE: Those haven’t gotten much support. Do you sense more support?

RG: There was support last time. I think there was quite a bit of discussion when we realigned the league. It’s been a few years.

Q: Do you think there would be more support if it comes in conjunction with a longer season?

RG: I’m not certain whether there is a strong correlation between the two. They are two distinct decisions. I think in some people’s minds those might impact on their ultimate vote. But I think they are ultimately two distinct decisions at this point in time. As we evaluate it, we might draw that this is something that should be done as part of that, if we get to the conclusion that we should expand or restructure the season.

RE: Adding a potential regular season game to the back end of the season as opposed to the starting the season earlier

RG: That is how we discussed it this morning and that is how we’re analyzing it. On the other hand, there are people who want to discuss how fans perceive that if they are going to regular season games in January. That is something we have got to be sensitive to. We’re going to evaluate that and doing some studies on that to see what we can determine.

Q: So you’re still open to starting the season a little earlier?

RG: Yeah, I wouldn’t rule anything out.

Q: Are you looking at reintroducing the idea of reducing debt cap?

RG: Yes. In this kind of market every company is evaluating their debt levels and we’re not different from that. We have an obligation to do that on an annual basis. We’re all concerned about debt in this kind of environment. You can see what it can do. Companies that are over-leveraged – that is what this is – this is a massive de-leveraging on a global basis. It can have significant consequences for a business and that is what we want to avoid.

Q: Is it a concern that the Union will once again file a complaint if the NFL wants to lower its debt?

RG: They very well might, but we’re running our business. We have to be able to run our business just like everyone else and managing your debt is a big part of that, just as it is for everybody.

Q: You mentioned a spring preseason game. Is there an appetite for that?

RG: It is interesting. That was raised by a few clubs. It is more in the context of what colleges do with their spring game. It can be in the form of a scrimmage. It was an interesting concept that has been raised before and was discussed this morning by a number of people.

Q: Is it one team playing another?

RG: It could be. It was an interesting idea, which we’ll look at. It was raised by more than one club.

Q: Do you plan to look into the assault charge against Larry Johnson?

RG: Yes.

RE: Are stadium costs the fastest rising costs you have?

RG: I’d have to look at it statistically. Either player costs or stadium costs, yes. Our costs continue to rise and revenues are under pressure right now.

RE: Backlash regarding the NFL going overboard on cracking down on over the top touchdown celebrations.

RG: It is a fine line between an emotion and enthusiastic response that is natural versus something that is predetermined that is nothing more than to affect the other team or reflect poorly on the game. We always try to find that balance.

Q: So you are not trying to discourage it when it is spontaneous?

RG: No. It is a passionate part of our game, it is a big part of our game so we don’t discourage that, but it can cross the line where it becomes staged and inciting to the other team, and that is a problem.

# # #

The Emerging NFC East

The Emerging NFC EAST- By Michael Porpora for Football Reporters online

The NFC East has emerged as undoubtedly the best and most competitive division, top to bottom, in football. One could argue that it might be the toughest division in all of sports (although the AL east may have something to say about that). Lets not forget the NFC East sent three teams to the playoff a year ago (Giants, Cowboys, and Redskins), and I would be shocked if that changes this season.

The defending world champion New York Giants are surely one of the best teams in the NFL. Although though they lost their first game of the season this past Monday night to the Cleveland Browns, they still remain one of the best in the game. They are the true definition of team, with Eli Manning emerging as one of the premiere quarterbacks in the league; gaining confidence by the minute. The offensive line has been together for more than two full seasons and seems to get stronger with every game. Let’s not forget to mention the rushing attack of the human bulldozer, Brandon Jacobs, and the speedy Derrick Ward, a powerful one-two punch.

The Dallas Cowboys on the other hand have just acquired Roy Williams from the Detroit Lions, and now have the most powerful WR combo in the game. The Cowboys were the early odds on favorite to win it all this year with the season ending injury to Tom Brady, and that was before the acquisition of Williams. Although they have had their issues thus far this season with injuries to Tony Romo and Felix Jones, (and let’s not forget the mayhem that always revolves around Pacman Jones) I would love to see the damage they can do with their full squad in mid-season form.

The Washington Redskins are also looking like the playoff team from a year ago, winning four straight games against tough opponents to the likes of the Cowboys and the Eagles. The Redskins had a shocking loss to the winless Rams this past week, but they are a resilient team who will surely bounce back.

The Eagles have the longest tenured head coach in the game, in Andy Reid, who has proven to be one of the best head coaches in the league. With the addition of Asante Samuel and the receive DeSean Jackson they are an extremely skillful team with great experience to go along with it. As long as McNabb and Westbrook can stay healthy, they can play with anyone in the League.
The other night I heard Osi Umenyiora say on Monday night countdown that the team he fears the most in the NFC East is “the Philadelphia Eagles,” who have a 3-3 record and are currently last in the division. If that doesn’t explain how competitive this division is, I don’t know what does.

In short, these four teams are stacked among all facets of the game. They are great defensively and offensively with outstanding running attacks. The NFC East teams also have Pro Bowl quarterbacks with tremendous upside and if you ask me, the Super Bowl champions will once again come out of the NFC East.

Eds. Note Michael Porpora is the newest addition to the staff at Football Reporters Online. This is his first submission.

Football Reporters Online Show

It's Thursday, and that means it's another episode of the Football Reporters Online Show On BlogTalk Radio. Joining us Tonight will be Jennifer Smith, The Executive Director of the Gridiron Greats Assistance fund. We will Discuss the Ongoing Health Care Crisis among Senior retired NFL Players, and what the Fans can do to support this worthy cause.
The show can be heard at 9pm eastern at;

“The Express” Is Right On Time

“The Express” Is Right On Time

By Michael – Louis Ingram for Football Reporters Online





“From the time I started in sports, I was always the player who got the limelight, who had the nice stories written about him; all this I gained merely by doing what I liked to do most.”

--Ernie Davis, the first African – American to win the Heisman Award; from an article entitled “I’m Not Unlucky” in the Saturday Evening Post, March 30, 1963 (with Bob August).



It has long been something most people take for granted, especially in the era of self – promotion and media commotion; to be able to translate their talents into real – world affectation, benefitting not only themselves, but mankind as well.

If you were a Black person living in 1950s America, those opportunities to do something you loved and prosper from it were few and far between; and as prior generations of Black people sought to channel their frustration into realization, waiting for that one source which could not only burn, but illuminate.

In 1959, Syracuse University would produce such a source in Ernie Davis.

The life of tailback Ernie Davis is put on display in a new film, “The Express,” to be released nationwide today. As the first African – American to receive college football’s highest honor, the Heisman Trophy, Davis, who was nicknamed “the Elmira Express” for his community in Elmira, New York, would do the thing he loved; while transforming into a conduit for the aspirations of civility and humanity for Black people during the Civil Rights era.

As herculean a task as Davis had thrust upon him, there was one who had previously blazed a trail for him. The great Jim Brown, first to wear the now mythic #44 for the Orangemen of Syracuse, revealed that Davis was made of the right stuff. “Ernie Davis was a quiet storm of courage and self – awareness,” assesses Brown. On the field, he was everything you could want in a talent – big, quick and powerful.

“But off the field, with the eyes of the world on him, he stared perception in the face with his reality of knowing who he was and knowing what he did and what it meant to everyone at that time.

“You have to remember cats like Davis saw the big picture; they didn’t come out of school with no degree and little life experience. If anything, Syracuse kept its word in guaranteeing an education to us.

“Out of the Black men who would go on to play professional ball in that era, over 90 per cent of these men had their degrees – real degrees -- and knew there were more things than football we had to contend with.”

Syracuse head football coach Ben Schwartzwalder was one of those things; a hard, focused man who was tough but fair – and Davis’ enduring spirit endeared himself to Schwartzwalder, helping him and the program to become one of the strongest in the country during a time resistant to change and more sensitive to transition.

Davis’ story is a lightning rod for the growing civil rights movement that would take the country to task in the 1960s. The covert and overt racism Davis would run over around and through would change the face of college athletics; but Davis, unlike many after him, didn’t have the luxury of opting out of the challenge and ignoring the unspoken calling for commercial gain.

Brown cites this as the quintessential difference between then and now. “You take a Michael Jordan,” pauses Brown,”…and all you can really say about him is that he was a great basketball player – but that’s all. Jordan is no hero to me.

“There were cats like Jordan back in our time, too – and whatever motivations sparked them to do what they did was just something unsaid; but we knew (who they were), and they were far in the minority in our overall approach of what we collectively had to do.

“Ernie Davis never gave his manhood up – and still managed to sign what was at that time the largest pro contract at the end of his college career.

“There is no question Davis would’ve been a great pro player; that he never got the chance to fulfill it pales in comparison to the commitment he made in earning it and making things better for those who came after him,” Brown said.

In addition to being the first Black player to be awarded the Heisman, Davis would become the first Black player to be selected as first overall in any NFL draft in 1962.

When his rights were traded from the Washington Redskins and their racist owner George Preston Marshall (in part because Davis refused to play for him), Cleveland Browns owner Art Modell laid the foundation for a dream backfield of Brown and Davis. Although leukemia would end Davis’ life at age 23, the Browns retired #45 in honor of him.

The ‘one who came after’ Davis at Syracuse was Floyd Little, who, compared to Brown and the 6’2” 220 pound Davis, was the smallest of the titanic triumvirate (5’ 10”, 190) and Little still smiles in recalling the day he committed to Syracuse. “We were all at home, watching ‘The Beverly Hillbillies,’” laughs Little. The door was answered and here’s Ernie and Ben Schwartzwalder. Ernie had on this camel hair coat and this huge smile on his face as he said hello and my sisters are all goo – goo eyed, staring holes through him.

“We then went to dinner and what I remember most was the university promising that they would ensure me that if I played for Syracuse, I would leave with an education and something else besides Saturday afternoons in the fall – and they kept their word.”

While Little may have been the runt of the litter, his heart was huge. As the sixth player in the AFL – NFL common draft in 1967 after an All – American career as an Orangeman, he singlehandedly saved the Denver Broncos with his efforts at Mile High Stadium.

In Denver, Little was merely “The Franchise” – but suggests Davis was of even greater stature. “I would have to say this movie about Ernie has been in the works for over 40 years. In terms of scope and its effect on our society, it has to rank right up there with Jackie Robinson’s story in baseball.”

What is clear about “The Express” is this is not a football movie, a sentiment Little echoes. “This is a story of a young man who knew he was sick; who should’ve had everything to look forward to after overcoming so much refusing to dwell on ‘what if’ or ‘why me?’ – and doing it with a desire to live and class that I sincerely hope will give some of these young men out here pause to start thinking again.”

I see “The Express” as an “Old School” primer in knowing what to do and how to do it; and as these great men have stated, will hopefully serve as a wakeup call to many athletes and non – athletes to reconsider the unspoken covenant made between those who came before and the expectations in holding down those values intrinsic to all cultures.

This flick is worth more than a bucket of popcorn, and seems to be pulling into the station of self - awareness – right on time.

Mike is F.R.O's Director of scouting and Also hosts a Weekly show on Blackathlete.com's website. You can e-mail him your comments at the address below

mike@footballreportersonline.com

Buying Into Team Concept Resulting In Big Results For Big Blue

Buying Into Team Concept Resulting In Big Results For Big Blue-By Jon Wagner for Football Reporters Online

It took the New York Giants the majority of the 2007 regular season to buy into what its coaching staff was selling. We all know how that story panned out for New York, with an unlikely run to a Super Bowl title over the previously undefeated New England Patriots. The Giants didn’t even look like a playoff team, let alone an eventual NFL champion, in the earlier part of the 2007 campaign.

The point at which the Giants are at now, defending their 2007 title with a perfect 4-0 start in 2008 (extending their regular and postseason winning streak to eight consecutive games), clouds recollections of the Giants’ very humble beginnings last season.

Revisiting those early stages of what has become the Giants’ tremendous team growth, provides a great deal of perspective. The Giants began last season 0-2, allowing 80 points in their first two games; after winning seven of their next eight games, the Giants and Eli Manning were about as dreadful as they could be in getting wiped out at home, 41-17, against the Minnesota Vikings; and, after losing a key December game at home (in which they came in favored) to the Washington Redskins, in December, the Giants found their slim playoff chances hanging by a thread, down 14-0 after the first quarter in Buffalo, in a must-win game.

That’s the point at which everything finally clicked for the Giants, who they haven’t looked back since. That’s when Brandon Jacobs ran for two touchdowns (en route to a 143-yard rushing day) to tie that game in Buffalo; when Kawicka Mitchell stepped up with a huge play, returning an interception 20 yards to put the Giants ahead of the Bills to stay; when Eli Manning finally began to prove, in any conditions (even in rainy and windy Buffalo that day) that he could be the leader the Giants had waited for, four years; and, that’s when the Giants learned what they had in Ahmad Bradshaw, who ran for an 88-yard touchdown and a career-high 151 yards to clinch the win over the Bills, and ultimately clinch the Giants’ playoff chances, touching off what became one of the greatest late-season runs in sports history.

What followed of course was the narrow, confidence-building, well-played loss to New England at home, the Giants’ final loss (excluding the 2008 preseason) to date, before the Giants’ magical road playoff run to a title.

Manning’s confidence and level of play soared. The defense finally practiced on the field what Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo was preaching, and the rest of the Giants bought in to Head Coach Tom Coughlin’s ideals of personal sacrifice and “team first” concepts.

The Giants of course, have gotten where they are today because they have talent both on their roster and throughout their coaching staff. However, last season’s 18-1 Patriots also had a world of talent, yet as 14-point underdogs in Super Bowl XLII, it was the Giants who emerged as unexpected champions.

Why? Because the Giants mixed their talent with all of the other ingredients needed to overcome injuries and adversity -- maximum effort, heart, true team play, and surprising heroes picking up the slack for the Giants’ stars whenever called upon.

When Jeremy Shockey went down for the season with a leg injury in the aforementioned Washington game, Kevin Boss stepped in more than adequately for the remainder of the season, including his key, late 45-yard reception in Super Bowl XLII.

And, of course, we all know the remarkable catch that David Tyree made, despite being able to count the number of catches he had previously made in 2007 on the same right hand that incredibly affixed the football to his helmet as he acrobatically fell to the ground.

So, is it any wonder that after their amazing Super Bowl run, even after the retirement of Michael Strahan and the huge season-ending injury of Osi Umenyiora, that the Giants continue to not miss a beat?

Because of their team-first attitude, a collective willingness to prove all naysayers wrong, and the uncanny ability to effectively plug seemingly anyone into holes created by injuries or other circumstances, the Giants have simply refused to let such personnel losses translate into any additional losses to their opponents.

Given the track record since December, it should come as little surprise that the spot of the man who caught the winning touchdown in Super Bowl XLII (Plaxico Burress, of course, sitting out last week serving a one-game team-imposed suspension), was filled in on Sunday (a 44-6 crushing of the Seattle Seahawks) with Domenik Hixon catching four balls for a career-high 102 yards and a touchdown, and by Sinorice Moss catching the first two touchdowns of his professional career.

The Giants’ schedule will get much tougher this season, it will be a long and winding road back to another possible Super Bowl title, and the Giants may not repeat as champions. However, the smart pick says that because they have defined the word “team” since December, the Giants will at least have a great chance of getting back to the top no matter what other obstacles are placed in front of them.

(image thanks to Ingamenow.com)

Raiders Davis Fires Kiffin by Phone

Raiders’ Davis Fires Kiffin by Phone (I guess smoke signals would have taken too long) By Dr. Bill Chachkes for Football Reporters Online

So what makes this time different from the last? Davis said he had the goods on Kiffin and that his conduct was detrimental to the Raiders organization, to the coaching staff and players, and to Davis personally.
“I had to let him Go” Stated Mr. Davis. Sounds like wall street letting go of a few billion and saying Opps, we messed up. It seems like they have messed up plenty of times before. What is Davis’ Excuse this time? “I Hired the wrong guy”, and “he’s A flat out Liar” was his answer. So then what was his excuse for Mike Shanahan? Norv Turner? Jon Gruden? all now successful with other teams. Two of them, Turner and Shanahan even in the same division.

Who will save the Raiders now that the silver is mottled with rust? Not Interim head coach Tom Cable. Not this mystery off-season hiring of an exec who will bring the Raiders back. “We’ll get back, the Raiders will be back” said Davis, who surely would be better off in a nursing home right now then at the Raiders offices. Al, please hang it up. You are hurting the poor Raiders fans, and the people of Brooklyn NY where you are from.

NFL DRAFT Remains in NYC for at least 2009-but no movement on NFL network coming to CableTV

NFL DRAFT Remains in NYC for at least 2009-but no movement on NFL network coming to CableTV

If you look at the NFL.com Website you can clearly see that The dates for the Draft are posted (April 25th and 26th 2009) and Listed as "Radio City Music Hall" in NYC
In the past i had said i felt it should be moved around some. But after talking with Fans the last two drafts i have done an about face. Maybe the NFL should sign a long term agreement with Radio City (oh, but that would mean they'd be going back on their word and Jumping back into bed with Radio City's owner "the Evil(yeah right) James Dolan of Cablevision). The clear fact is that the NFL Owners are the ones keeping the fans from having the NFL Network (and even the Sunday ticket) on Cable, and not James and Charles Dolan. Ask NFL Brodcast comm. chair Jerry Jones(the same one who owns the Cowboys) why they are trying to get Cablevision into court to force them to carry the channel on Basic cable? Because not all that many people are running out to get Directv or dish network (or even Fios) so fast...So i'm Glad the Draft will stay in NYC for at least one more year, and on Cable TV Via ESPN G_d Bless Chris Berman's Voice...

AFC South Wk. 3 Wrap.

AFC SOUTH Week 3
Titans 31 Texans 12
By Rafael Garcia AFC South Insider

At the start of the season what was clear was that the Colts would be in first place. Then it should have been Jacksonville second. Well the power structure has changed a bit. After the Titans put a whipping on Houston it was they who were in first. With a 3-0 record they have a two game lead over the Colts and Jags (both 0-2). The defense has given up only 29 points total do far. Jags back Albert Haynesworth and Courtland Finnegan may be the best at their position in the league. Haynesworth had a sack and was a monster all day. Finnegan got his fourth pick of the year and ran it back 99 yards for a touchdown. Micheal Griffin had two interceptions of his own and the Titans defense held Houston scoreless in the second half. Kerry was solid going 14-26 for 189 yards and touchdown pass to Bo Scaife. The running game produced 154 yards and that was enough for the win. In the stands the crowd pounded on the seats. They stomped their feet and screamed like it was 1999 again. This team still has way to go before they start talking division title but with the Vince Young situation its not a bad start. In the other divisional game the Colts took it on the chin in a 23-21 loss to the Jags. Josh Scobee nailed a 51 yard field goal with four seconds left for the win. That came after Peyton Manning drove the Colts 77 yards for the apparent game winning score. Though looking better he threw an interception that was returned 61 yards for a touchdown. Penalties at crucial times hurt too. As for the Jags, they had 236 yards rushing but found the end zone just once offensively. They needed three Scobee field goals to get this win. These two teams along with Texans better get their act together quick. Any more slip-ups could be costly if the Titans get better as expected.

The Fans Corner#2-The PSL Commentary

The Fans Corner#2-The PSL Commentary
By Willie “The Pizzaman” Mariano for Football Reporters Online

As another opening day approached for my football team. The only football team I have faithfully rooted for since my birth. Check that, since the womb. Whether it be the two and twelve seasons of my youth gone bye. (and there were more of those then I care to remember) or as defending Super Bowl Champions yet again. (The third in my 46 years) I found myself missing something. I had a feeling that I have never experienced in my life. You have to understand one thing folks. My Dad, like almost all Big Blue diehards has had season tickets for years and years. Dear ol' dad since 1954. My brother and myself, since 1976.That is five decades and three decades respectively, and then some that we have bled blue. It was taught to us right along side of always being proud to be an Italian American or a God fearing man who is morally sound and respectful to all of mankind. Like bathing. Like eating. Like drinking water. Like breathing. It was a necessity of life. It was even more important then religion. Only because God did not give Dad his season tickets way back when. No way. God gives to all freely and there was nothing free about being a New York Football Giants season ticket holder. You either renewed your seats every April or May or lost them to the next NYG fan on the list of a hundred thousand strong.
What was also a given of being a season ticket holder, was that you were expected to always be respectful to all fellow fans on football Sundays. This was not a written rule by the Giants organization. It was one ingrained in you by the name on the account who paid the bill season after season. Only then, were you allowed to earn the right to have them passed down to you. Generation after generation. I might be wrong but that sure sounds like ownership to me. Don't get me wrong folks. I totally understand the economics of a now billion dollar industry called the, "National Football League." What I fail to understand is without "us" the fans filling the seats and buying the products endorsed by each and every team, there would be no National Football League. So what do we get for our unwavering loyalty for all these years? Something called, Personal Seat Licenses or "PSL's."
As we all know by now, this is a mandatory one time fee that will allow us to continue being a season ticket holder. To own our seat that we have already owned since forever, in the brand new stadium slated to open in 2010. A stadium that when planned was estimated to cost almost seven hundred million dollars. Then we get, opps we mis-calculated a little. The cost is now 1.4 billion and we the multi millionaire owners of the Giants and Jets can not afford to build it without the help of our faithful fans. What a crock! First of all, who ever was in charge of figuring out the cost of building the new stadium should have been fired on the spot. We are talking double the original estimate. A seven hundred million dollar mistake for a stadium that will not even have a dome? Are they serious?

Evidently they are and we the "fans" are being forced to make up the difference. Not the sponsors, who in one short season will most likely generate enough money to build two stadiums. In closing all I can say with all due respect is that, Mr Wellington Mara is not turning over in his grave, he's doing cartwheels. By meeting him more then a few times and even having the honor to feed him and his wife at my tailgate parties through the years. I can venture to say he would not be to pleased with what his son's and Tish's sons are doing to what he humbly called, "The Greatest and Most Passionate Fans In Sports." I think he would tell them he pays them darn good money to go out and get the sponsors to pay for the new stadium and leave his "friends/fans" alone. Unfortunately this will not happen so we are stuck in the new world of PSL's. "Professional Shylock Licenses!" So in a few short months the money hungry owners of NFL teams have succeeded in making my "Passion Suddenly Lost" for what was always regarded in my family as a given right. You either bleed blue or your an outcast. What a travesty!

NFLPA Needs Assistance for Successor to the late Gene Upshaw

NFLPA Needs Assistance for Successor to the late Gene Upshaw

September 11, 2008

By Slavica Milosevska for Football Reporters Online
The NFL Players' Association have some big shoes to fill after executive director Gene Upshaw's death in August and will be hiring a national search firm to help after consulting with all 32 teams. The union's board will take potential firms into consideration in the few weeks to come. Additionally, the actual NFL players are being questioned on the qualifications of the ideal successor.
NFLPA 's Interim executive director is uncertain regarding the time it will take to find Upshaw's replacement. “The choice of an executive director would not change the players’ bargaining agenda,” he stated. Berthelsen says that the executive board and himself are working with hiring procedures should not affect labor issues and that they are also discussing terms with the NFL.
When asked about taking Upshaw's old position, Berthelsen says he doesn't want that commitment. There are many headaches at this level. For instance, before Upshaw's passing, he had a concern that if the NFL opted out of the CBA that it would never return. This is the current status, making 2010 an uncapped season if no new agreement is settled. There is yet time until the spring of 2009 to make a deal. Only time will tell who and what will happen.