Wednesday, September 16, 2009

News for 9/16/9

Morey: NFL needs to aid brain, concussion researchThe Associated PressOr when former players like Andre Waters and Justin Strzelczyk die violently just a few years after leaving the game — bouts of depression that autopsies ...

Verizon Teams Up with ESPN to Offer Ultimate Fantasy Football ...
Reuters - 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Verizon and Verizon Wireless have teamed up with ESPN to give football fans the ultimate fantasy football experience and a competitive ...

Nebraska Teen Collapses, Dies After Football Practice
FOXNews - Omaha school district officials are confirming the death of a high school student who collapsed after football practice. The 16-year-old junior, ...

North Chicago varsity football is reinstated but on probation
Chicago Tribune - Lisa Black - ‎The Illinois High School Association reinstated varsity football at North Chicago Community High School on Tuesday after a ...

Sports Briefing Pro Football Patriots Say Mayo Will Return
New York Times - By AP The New England Patriots say linebacker Jerod Mayo will return to the field this season after hurting his right knee in the first quarter of Monday ...

NBC scores with NFL openers
Los Angeles Times - Six of the seven most-watched network programs are related to pro football. College ball boosts ESPN. By city news service The start of the NFL's regular ...

College football: Stoops mum on Bradford
Seattle Times - College football Stoops stays quiet on Bradford recovery: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops isn't giving an update on Heisman Trophy winner Sam. ...

What's With All This College Football Conference Banter?
Bleacher Report - As any college football fan has noticed, the rivalry between conferences has been stepped up a notch or two over the past few seasons (to say the least. ...

College Football Point Spreads Week 3
Sports-Odds.com - Sports Betting Odds - Pat Spence - College Football Point Spreads Week 3: UAB Blazers are at the Troy Trojans on Saturday at 3:30 PM EST. BL Mitchell threw for 353 yards and three touchdowns ...

Polls after Week 2 make no sense
FOXSports.com - There are subjective issues, objective issues and offensive issues that go to show the way of determining a college football national champion deserves to ...

Ohio State football morning news roundup
The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com - ‎by Starting Blocks, The Plain Dealer Toledo quarterback Aaron Opelt is the biggest challenge for the Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday. ...

UCLA football: Four players suspended
Los Angeles Times - Defensive back Courtney Viney, tailback Milton Knox, wide receiver Morrell Presley and wide receiver Randall Carroll will sit out one game for a violation ...

NCAA College Football week 2 - wrap up
San Francisco Chronicle - NCAA week two was marked by two marque games: Notre Dame v. Michigan and USC v. Ohio State. In the first game, Notre Dame, which was 18th ranked and is now ...

Former Pro-Football Player Jay Riemersma Running For Congress
RTT News - (RTTNews) - Former National Football League player Jay Riemersma announced Monday that he will run for Congress in Michigan in 2010. ...

Previewing the week of high school football for September 14
The Star-Ledger - NJ.com - High school football writer Mike Kinney and Matt Stanmyre preview the week ahead in high school football. With the holiday week there are games on Thursday, ...

Mangini's role in Favre injury under review by National Football ...
The Canadian Press -CLEVELAND — Browns coach Eric Mangini can't seem to escape from New York. The NFL is investigating Mangini's role in the Jets' failure to list quarterback ...

Football Fans Rooting for the Steelers
Adweek - NEW YORK With the NFL season no underway, who are football fans rooting for to win the Super Bowl? Not the Arizona Cardinals, despite the long-shot team's ...

Alabama getting healthy on the football field
WRDW-TV -Reporter: AP TUSCALOOSA, Ala. (AP) -- Alabama coach Nick Saban says injured tailback Roy Upchurch and receiver Julio Jones have made significant improvement ...


Reid says McNabb is making progress
PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb will not practice Wednesday because of his cracked rib. Coach Andy Reid says McNabb is making progress. He also says it is still too early to determine if McNabb will start Sunday's game against New Orleans.
Sep 16, 2009
Reid says McNabb is making progress
PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb will not practice Wednesday because of his cracked rib. Coach Andy Reid says McNabb is making progress. He also says it is still too early to determine if McNabb will start Sunday's game against New Orleans.
Sep 16, 2009
Colts still uncertain about Gonzalez's injury
INDIANAPOLIS -- The Indianapolis Colts expected Anthony Gonzalez to replace Marvin Harrison this season. Now they could be looking for a replacement to The Replacement. One day after losing Gonzalez in a 14-12 victory over Jacksonville, team president Bill Polian said...
Sep 15, 2009
Cutler throws four interceptions in debut as Packers beat Bears
GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Aaron Rodgers brought the Packers back late in the fourth quarter, heaving a 50-yard touchdown pass to Greg Jennings with 1:11 remaining to give Green Bay a 21-15 victory over the Chicago Bears in the season opener Sunday night. Facing third-and-1 at...
Sep 15, 2009
Cutler struggles in debut as Packers edge Bears
Morry Gash / Associated Press QB Jay Cutler threw four interceptions in his debut with the Bears. It was over when ... Al??Harris picked off Jay??Cutler with about a minute left to seal the victory for the Packers. In a back-and-forth game, QB Aaron Rodgers...
Sep 15, 2009

Sanchez marvelous, Texans not so much, in NFL's opening week
On the Monday following opening weekend during my 23-year NFL career, I would always remind myself, win or lose, of a line from a Jackson Browne song: "They forget about the losses and exaggerate the wins." It was a way of reminding me that the euphoria...
Sep 15, 2009 Michael Lombardi

Polamalu says 'best case scenario' is return in three to six weeks
PITTSBURGH -- This might be the first time Troy Polamalu is happy to hear that an injury will keep him out from three to six weeks. Polamalu realizes his injury could be much worse. Maybe even Brian Urlacher-like worse. "We're going to miss him. There's...
Sep 15, 2009

NFL Community Tuesdays kick off with season
Teams give back to community on their 'day off' Teams across the NFL will continue the tradition of 'NFL Community Tuesdays,' this seasons as players spend their only day off getting active in their communities. From school visits to fitness activities,...
Sep 15, 2009

RBs Bell, Williams will be hot names on the fantasy waiver wire
Bill Feig / Associated Press Saints running back Mike Bell was impressive in a season-opening 45-27 win over the Detroit Lions. Michael Fabiano offers up 10 players to target off the waiver wire to improve your fantasy team after Week 1. The number in...
Sep 15, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Nominees for FedEx Air & Ground Players of the Week
The NFL announced today that quarterbacks Drew Brees of the New Orleans Saints, Joe Flacco of the Baltimore Ravens and Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys are the finalists for the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week honors for games played on September 10-14, while running backs Julius Jones...
Sep 15, 2009

Jets' Sanchez among nominees for Pepsi Rookie of the Week
Wide receivers Kenny Britt of the Tennessee Titans, Louis Murphy of the Oakland Raiders, and Percy Harvin of the Minnesota Vikings, tackle Michael Oher of the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Mark Sanchez of the New York Jets are the finalists for PEPSI NFL Rookie of the Week honors...
Sep 15, 2009

Pats' Mayo injures knee; Bills' Posluszny breaks arm
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- New England Patriots linebacker Jerod Mayo didn't return after injuring his right knee in the first quarter of their 25-24 victory over the Buffalo Bills on Monday night. Mayo, the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year last season, was hurt...
Sep 15, 2009

McKelvin fumble allows Patriots to secure comeback win over Bills
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Tom Brady doesn't do mediocre. That's not what all those long rehab sessions and months of preparing for his return to the NFL were about. So while Brady's performance was pedestrian for much of Monday night's season opener, when...
Sep 15, 2009

Watson comes alive, keys Pats' win
Stephan Savoia / Associated Press Patriots TE Ben Watson equaled his total from last year with two TDs. It was over when ... A hook-and-lateral attempt by the Bills with time expiring stalled at the Patriots' 44-yard line. Buffalo never expected to be in...
Sep 15, 2009

Pats' rally over Bills proves quality teams rise to occasion under pressure
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots didn't so much win Monday night's 25-24 thriller over Buffalo as much as the Bills lost it, late. Buffalo's collapse and the Patriots' fourth-quarter comeback, in the return of the ultra-poised Tom Brady,...
Sep 15, 2009 Steve Wyche

Chargers outlast Raiders behind Sproles' late TD run
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Philip Rivers and the San Diego Chargers opened the season doing what they do best: beating the Oakland Raiders. Rivers answered a pair of go-ahead scores by Oakland by leading two touchdown drives, capped by Darren Sproles' 5-yard run with 18...
Sep 15, 2009

Eagles place starting tackle Shawn Andrews on injured reserve
PHILADELPHIA -- Shawn Andrews won't play with his brother this season. The Philadelphia Eagles placed Andrews on injured reserve Tuesday, ending the two-time Pro Bowl lineman's season. Andrews missed the entire preseason and season opener with a back injury. He briefly...
Sep 15, 2009

Broncos temporarily push turbulent offseason aside
The outcome will be remembered for a crazy tipped pass that Brandon Stokley -- by being in the right place at the right time -- turned into the winning touchdown. As the 2009 season progresses, it could very well end up meaning so much more. Not only...
Sep 15, 2009 Vic Carucci

Panthers take on Falcons in NFC South clash
Mike McCarn / Associated Press Jake Delhomme will have to keep an eye on Falcons DE John Abraham at all times. Last meeting Michael Turner rushed for a career-high four touchdowns to lead the Falcons past the Panthers, 45-28, in Week 12 of last season.
Sep 15, 2009

How Bears adjust to life without Urlacher will determine their fate
The loss of Brian Urlacher significantly impacts a defense that was expected to rank among the league's best units in 2009. The six-time Pro Bowler is unquestionably the heart and soul of the Bears defense, and his versatile skills shine in the...
Sep 15, 2009 Bucky Brooks

Monday, September 7, 2009

Best of Football Highlights



Hits and Highlight

News for 9/7/09

Rank 'Em: College Football Top 25 2009
ESPN - It only took one game, one tackle and one injury to change the entire face of college football. With Sooners star quarterback Sam Bradford suffering an ...

WSU football: Wildcats play giveaway in loss to Wyoming
Salt Lake Tribune - ‎Weber State, eighth nationally in the Football Championship Subdivision's preseason rankings, stayed with Wyoming for much of the first half, then rallied ...

Football and wrestling top list of school sports injuries
Los Angeles Times - Jeannine Stein - Football was No. 1, with the highest injury rate -- 0.69 per 1000 athletic events (with an "event" defined as one practice or competition). ...

Fresno State football fires on all cylindars against UC Davis
Merced Sun-Star - Daniel Lyght - Fresno State beat UC Davis, a Football Championship Subdivision opponent, 51-0 Saturday night and gave the 37267 fans in attendance reason to expect what ...

West Virginia Football: Frustrating
Bleacher Report - ‎Essentially, and regardless of the type of our words, we were saying the same thing: the 2009 edition of West Virginia football is still a work-in-progress. ...

Tradition, prospects on display in Ohio
ESPN - Chris Lawlor - "Football is talked about every day around here; you can't escape it," he said. The traditions found in Cincinnati area that span generations. ...

LEHIGH FOOTBALL Mountain Hawks regroup after rough start to season
Allentown Morning Call - Keith Groller - ''It's football. They covered us. There wasn't much separation for our receivers. Their No. 3 [defensive back Nick Delgado, who made the end zone ...

Mother of football player testifies in coach's reckless homicide trial
USA Today - Antoinette Konz, Jason The homicide trial of former Pleasure Ridge Park High School football coach Jason Stinson opened Friday morning with its first witness — Michele Crockett, ...

Details emerge about accused killer of Iowa HS football coach
USA Today - Reid Forgrave - ‎The big kid was always deceptively fast, on the elementary playground, then later on the football field, where as a linebacker Becker played varsity as a ...

UCLA football: Bruins get ready for wild night in Tennessee
Los Angeles Times -UCLA's young football team will find that out this week. “It all depends on your concentration,” Coach Rick Neuheisel said. “If your concentration level is ...

Fantasy Football: How to Win
ABC News - Chris Gorski - The National Football League's regular season starts on Thursday, Sept. 10, but fantasy football season is ...

Former Notre Dame QB Kiel arrested
ESPN - Eric Hansen -After graduating from Notre Dame, Kiel bounced around on the fringes of three NFL rosters, the Canadian Football League and the Arena Football League before ...

College Football Picks: Miami vs. Florida State
Online Sports Handicapping - Free Sports Picks - College Football Picks - Miami vs. Florida State: At least for the Miami Hurricanes and Florida State Seminoles, these two ACC college football picks power ...

Patriots must protect Brady; Eli has enough WR options
At 13-3, the Tennessee Titans had the best record in the NFL last season and the Steelers won the Super Bowl, making Thursday night's Kickoff game between those two teams very interesting. But the fact that the Titans beat the Steelers in Week 16 last year, 31-14, without...
Pat Kirwan

Merriman says he did not harm girlfriend, reality star Tequila
SAN DIEGO -- San Diego Chargers star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman says he didn't harm a reality TV star who has accused him of choking and restraining her. Shawne Merriman, LB San Diego Chargers Career Statistics Games/Starts: 43/38 Tackles:...

Lions choose Stafford as starter for Week 1 against Saints
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Matt Stafford has won the Detroit Lions' starting quarterback job. Lions coach Jim Schwartz told his team Monday morning that the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft would start Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. Stafford had...

Lions choose Stafford as starter for Week 1 against Saints
ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- Matt Stafford has won the Detroit Lions' starting quarterback job. Lions coach Jim Schwartz told his team Monday morning that the No. 1 overall pick in April's draft would start Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. Stafford had...

Coughlin excuses LB Pierce from practice for personal reasons
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Middle linebacker Antonio Pierce missed the New York Giants' practice Monday for personal reasons. Coach Tom Coughlin said afterward that Pierce was excused from the roughly one-hour workout. He refused to disclose the reason for...

Quarterbacks taking on greater role in fantasy football success
NFL.com Illustration Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady are among the elite fantasy quarterbacks. The NFL has become more of a passing league in recent seasons, so it's no surprise to see the value of quarterbacks rising in fantasy football.
Michael Fabiano

Robinson ends holdout, signs deal Texans had been offering all along
HOUSTON -- Dunta Robinson and the Houston Texans were moving ahead Sunday after the star cornerback ended his holdout and signed the one-year deal the team had been offering all along. He took his physical early in the morning, then worked out for coaches. "I feel like...

McCown passes physical, prompting Jags to release Bouman
Quarterback Luke McCown has passed his physical with the Jacksonville Jaguars, prompting the team to cut veteran backup Todd Bouman. The moved was announced on Sunday. "You can keep three. You have to do what???s best for your situation," Jaguars general...

Parker to share carries this season
PITTSBURGH -- Willie Parker began an NFL season as a virtual unknown. As a 1,000-yard running back. As a Super Bowl star. As one of the league's best running backs. Never has Parker gone into any season as one of two running backs sharing a job, as he and Rashard Mendenhall...

Broncos newcomer Holliday underwent knee surgery in January
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Defensive end Vonnie Holliday, who joined the Denver Broncos on Sunday for his first workout with his new team, says an injured knee is what prevented him from signing a contract this spring. Holliday, who signed with the Broncos on Saturday after Le Kevin...

Broncos newcomer Holliday underwent knee surgery in January
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Defensive end Vonnie Holliday, who joined the Denver Broncos on Sunday for his first workout with his new team, says an injured knee is what prevented him from signing a contract this spring. Holliday, who signed with the Broncos on Saturday after Le Kevin...

Jets acquire O'Connell, will carry four quarterbacks to start season
The New York Jets acquired quarterback Kevin O'Connell from the Detroit Lions for an undisclosed draft pick on Sunday. It wasn't immediately clear what the Lions received for the former New England Patriots backup. The Lions had claimed O'Connell off waivers after...

Vikings sign Booty to practice squad
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- The Minnesota Vikings have signed quarterback John David Booty and seven others to the practice squad. John David Booty, QB Minnesota Vikings Preseason Statistics Passer rating: 62.9 Passing yards: 169 TDs/INTs: 0/1 The...

Falcons sign Shockley, Walker to practice squad
ATLANTA -- Quarterback D.J. Shockley, Atlanta's seventh-round draft pick in 2006, and defensive tackle Vance Walker, a seventh-round draft pick this year, are among eight players signed to the Falcons' practice squad. The Falcons had cut Shockley, the former...

Patriots trade veteran Seymour to Raiders for 2011 first-round pick
Five-time Pro Bowl defensive lineman Richard Seymour has been traded from the New England Patriots to the Oakland Raiders, giving the rebuilding franchise a veteran stalwart up front. In another move Sunday, the Patriots signed veteran free-agent guard Kendall Simmons to a...

Bills players had voiced concerns about offense before switch
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- With the start of the season a little over a week away, Alex Van Pelt can't help but feel both excited and a little nervous in taking over as the Buffalo Bills' offensive coordinator. It might ease Van Pelt's mind knowing the team's...

Chiefs awarded offensive tackle O'Callaghan off waivers
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City Chiefs have been awarded offensive tackle Ryan O'Callaghan off waivers from the New England Patriots, and waived tackle Barry Richardson on Sunday. The Chiefs also added seven players to the practice squad: cornerback Jackie Bates, tight...

Williams adds depth at cornerback, safety for Falcons
Brian Williams, DB Atlanta Falcons Games/Started: 107/93 Interceptions: 18 Forced Fumbles: 9 Cornerback Brian Williams, who started all 16 games for Jacksonville last season, has agreed to terms with the Atlanta Falcons. Williams, a fourth-round pick...

Merriman arrested, accused of choking girlfriend Tila Tequila
SAN DIEGO -- San Diego Chargers star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested Sunday and accused of choking and restraining his girlfriend, reality TV star Tila Tequila, as she tried to leave his suburban home. Tequila, 27, signed a citizen's arrest warrant,...

Saints add QB Daniel, two draft picks, to practice squad
The New Orleans Saints have added rookie quarterback Chase Daniel to the team's practice squad. The Saints also announced Sunday the team signed seven other players to the practice squad, including two 2008 draft choices -- wide receiver Adrian Arrington and defensive...

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

News for 8/24/09

USC-Ohio State 3D football broadcast
Los Angeles Times - Diane Pucin -12 3D broadcast of the USC at Ohio State football game, to be shown at the Galen Center, would be available through the USC alumni department. ...

UCLA football: Bruins labor through the day and prepare for Aztecs
Los Angeles Times - UCLA's football team closed down training camp Monday night and began its initial preparations for San Diego State. By mid-practice Tuesday the Bruins had ...

FBS Football News
Sports Network - Jeff Frank - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - The Florida Gators are the heavy 2-1 favorites to win their second straight BCS ...

Deal sought for Oklahoma football player
Dallas Morning News - Mike Jones -At issue is whether Balogun played for a team in the amateur North American Football League after his 21st birthday. If it is determined Balogun ...

Your Orthopaedic Connection: Football Injury Prevention
Football is the leading cause of school sports injuries. According to 2007 statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 920000 ...


Giants' Anthony Pierce talks football, not Plaxico Burress guilty plea
The Canadian Press - But he had plenty to say about football in the wake of the Giants' embarrassing 17-3 loss to the Bears in Chicago. Pierce, who is nursing a sore foot, ...

2009 college football Top 25 poll: Nos. 21-25
Examiner.com - As a writer who covers college football, I suppose it had to be done sooner or later. The following is a modest assessment of the country's 25 best teams, ...

Does Playing "Madden" Make You A Better Football Fan?
News10.net - REDWOOD CITY, CALIF - Does the Madden NFL franchise create a better football fan? The University of Oregon says yes, at least that's according to the ...

High school football player dies in game – video
Examiner.com - On Friday night, he collapsed during the third quarter of a football game and died. The game was suspended. A Knoxville Fire Department spokesperson says ...

Mercy High football benched
Corning Observer - Just three days before kicking off against longtime rival Los Molinos, Mercy High School has dropped its football program. It is the latest downturn on a ...

Georgia tight end won't play football anymore, chronic injury the ...
WRDW-TV - (AP) -- Georgia tight end Bryce Ros is ending his football career due to a chronic foot condition. Georgia director of sports medicine Ron Courson says Ros, ...


NFL.com 2009 fantasy running back rankings (61-70)
Quarterbacks Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Washington Redskins 61. Ladell Betts (Auction: $1) Betts could see more carries this season to help keep Clinton Portis fresh and free of injuries, but he???s still limited to...
Aug 25, 2009
Houshmandzadeh catches on with Seahawks; Winslow's stock rises
Kevin P. Casey / Associated Press Seahawks wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh has averaged better than 90 receptions in the last three seasons. NFL.com's Michael Fabiano breaks down offseason player movement and examines the fantasy implications.
Aug 25, 2009 Michael Fabiano
Relationship between QBs and coordinators is secret to success
There is a moment that an offensive coordinator knows when he has made the long-awaited breakthrough with his quarterback -- when their relationship grows beyond that of a coach merely calling a play into his headset, a player hearing it inside his helmet, and then relaying it to the rest...
Aug 25, 2009
Quarterbacks taking on greater role in fantasy football success
NFL.com Illustration Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady are among the elite fantasy quarterbacks. The NFL has become more of a passing league in recent seasons, so it's no surprise to see the value of quarterbacks rising in fantasy football.
Aug 25, 2009 Michael Fabiano
Arizona Cardinals Season Preview
Aug 25, 2009
Arms race: Why teams will do anything to find a stud QB
The NFL is a quarterback-driven league. No way around that. Defenses may win championships but quarterbacks win championship games. Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes; Eli Manning to Plaxico Burress; Tom Brady to Deion Branch in consecutive Super Bowls -- that's just the tip... Aug 25, 2009

Giants CB Ross re-injures left hamstring on last day of camp
ALBANY, N.Y. -- The New York Giants ended training camp with new concerns about starting cornerback Aaron Ross. Ross re-injured his left hamstring on the second play of an 11-on-11 drill Tuesday morning when he quickly turned to cover wide receiver Steve Smith going deep for...
Aug 25, 2009

NFL officially gives Saints K Hartley a four-game suspension for drug use
METAIRIE, La. -- The anticipated four-game suspension of Saints kicker Garrett Hartley became official Tuesday. Garrett Hartley, K New Orleans Saints Career Statistics Games: 8 FGM/FGA: 13/13 Long: 47 Hartley said earlier this month that...
Aug 25, 2009

Bills WR Owens still not ready to play; RB Jackson re-injures thumb
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Terrell Owens still isn't ready to play, and the Buffalo Bills' offense has another concern after running back Fred Jackson aggravated a left thumb injury during practice Tuesday. Bills coach Dick Jauron ruled out Owens from playing...
Aug 25, 2009

Cowboys coach, aide sue over collapsed facility
DALLAS -- Two Dallas Cowboys employees seriously injured in the collapse of the team's indoor practice facility filed lawsuits Tuesday against the company that designed the structure and others linked to its construction and repair. Scouting assistant Rich Behm and special...
Aug 25, 2009

Washington's fantasy draft stock on the rise with strong preseason
Denis Poroy / Associated Press Jets running back Leon Washington is suddenly rising up the fantasy draft boards with a strong preseason showing. When the New York Jets hired coach Rex Ryan this past offseason and took Mark Sanchez in the first round of the...
Aug 25, 2009 Michael Fabiano

St. Louis receiver Avery returns after stress fracture
ST. LOUIS -- St. Louis wide receiver Donnie Avery had been expected to miss up to the first two weeks of the season with a left foot stress fracture, but was back on the practice field Tuesday. St. Louis' top 5 fantasy players 1. Steven Jackson 2. Donnie Avery 3....
Aug 25, 2009

Patriots trade veteran OL Hochstein to Broncos for draft pick
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- The New England Patriots announced Tuesday that they have traded offensive lineman Russ Hochstein to the Denver Broncos for an undisclosed draft pick. Russ Hochstein, OL Denver Broncos Career Statistics Seasons: 9 Games Played: 92 ...
Aug 25, 2009

Prediction time: Picking first and last place teams in each division
Figured now is as good a time as any to open myself up to public flogging and give you my picks for each division now, before rosters are even set. Heck, we're halfway through the preseason schedule, so why not? And, I'll go ahead and name a last place team as well,...
Aug 25, 2009 Jason La Canfora

Players in contract years have motivation for statistical success
Ed Zurga / Associated Press Saints running back Pierre Thomas finished with 909 scrimmage yards and 12 total touchdowns. The movie Jerry Maguire, which follows the trials and tribulations of life as a sports agent, will forever be remembered for the line,...
Aug 24, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Bennett, Morgan headline the list of fantasy super sleepers for 2009
Charlie Riedel / Associated Press Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles showed flashes of potential in his rookie season with the Chiefs. Sometimes in fantasy football, the players you least expect to make an impact (mostly because you'd never heard of them...
Aug 24, 2009 Michael Fabiano

NFL.com 2009 fantasy quarterback rankings (1-15)
Running backs Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis New Orleans Saints 1. Drew Brees (Auction: $19) Brees didn't receive as much fanfare heading into last season as Tom Brady, Tony Romo, and Peyton Manning. But the veteran...
Aug 24, 2009

NFL.com 2009 fantasy quarterback rankings (16-30)
Running backs Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Minnesota Vikings 16. Brett Favre (Auction: $4) He's back! After months of speculation, Favre has decided to return to the NFL (again) and will be under center for...
Aug 24, 2009

Gonzalez, Rice could become solid sleepers for fantasy owners
Doug Pensinger / Getty Images Bills quarterback Trent Edwards should post the best numbers of his career with Terrell Owens in the mix. The term "sleeper" has several definitions. But in the world of fantasy football, it refers to a player who...
Aug 24, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Changing faces of fantasy wide receivers will impact drafts
NFL.com Illustration Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald and Randy Moss headline the top fantasy wideouts for 2009. Running backs will be the prominent position taken in the first two rounds of most drafts, but wide receivers will be a close second.
Aug 24, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Seahawks fantasy question: Can you trust the team's backfield?
Otto Greule Jr. / Getty Images The Seahawks put a lot of faith and money in Julius Jones last season. That doesn't mean you should. Seahawks fantasy question: Can fantasy owners trust anyone in the team's backfield? Trusting the Seahawks' backfield is akin...
Aug 24, 2009 Adam Rank

Jones-Drew rises in NFL.com's 2009 PPR fantasy football mock draft
Phil Coale / Associated Press Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew was taken second overall in NFL.com's experts league PPR draft. NFL.com's 2009 PPR fantasy football mock draft utilized a standard scoring system (plus points for receptions) and...
Aug 24, 2009

Then and Now: New York Jets
Joe Namath arrived in New York after starring at Alabama, the pre-eminent college program at the time. He played for legendary college coach Bear Bryant and was already famous due to both his charismatic personality and playing ability. Mark Sanchez recently landed in New York after...
Aug 24, 2009 Jason Feller

Forte taken fourth in NFL.com's 2009 fantasy football mock draft
John Smierciak / Associated Press Bears running back Matt Forte was the fourth overall pick in the NFL.com experts league mock draft. NFL.com's standard (non-PPR) fantasy football mock draft utilized a standard scoring system and required each owner to select...
Aug 24, 2009

NFL Network will launch new 'NFL RedZone' channel this season
New channel available to cable, Telco and satellite operators features "Every Touchdown, Every Game" on Sunday afternoons NFL Network's Scott Hanson to host NFL RedZone NFL Network is launching the new NFL RedZone channel this...
Aug 24, 2009

Quick Take: Ochocinco shows off versatility
Charles Crupa / Associated Press Chad Ochocinco had 69 receiving yards, but he drew more interest for his kicking ability. What we learned ... Chad Ochocinco can kick: The Bengals' outspoken wide receiver showed Thursday night that he can do more than catch...
Aug 24, 2009

Hasselbeck, Romo impress, but Browns' QB situation harder to clear up
Week 2 of the preseason is a good time to take a look at the teams and players around the league. Here are a number of things that jump out as I look at the preseason games, and things I saw on my camp tour. 1. Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck is back to his...
Aug 24, 2009 Pat Kirwan

Ravens' Fein says he'll be exonerated of charges of assaulting police officer
BALTIMORE -- Baltimore Ravens rookie linebacker Tony Fein said Monday night he will be exonerated of charges he allegedly assaulted a police officer once his side of the altercation is made public. Fein, however, refused to discuss specifics of the skirmish, which occurred inside...
Aug 24, 2009

Wilford's contract terminated by Dolphins
DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins have given up on their experiment with Ernest Wilford at tight end -- or anywhere else. Wilford's contract was terminated Monday. The Dolphins also waived running back Anthony Kimble, nose tackle Joe Cohen and linebackers Orion Martin...
Aug 24, 2009

Eagles teammates say Vick looks ready to play
PHILADELPHIA -- Michael Vick jogged off the field after another long practice and headed straight for the air-conditioned comfort indoors. All that extra work could be paying off. Vick's teammates said the quarterback looks ready to play when the Philadelphia Eagles...
Aug 24, 2009

Shawn Andrews says he'll be ready to play opener
PHILADELPHIA -- Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Shawn Andrews says his injured back is improving and he expects to play the team's season opener. Andrews, who underwent back surgery last season, hasn't practiced since the first day of training camp when he...
Aug 24, 2009

Mangini no closer in deciding Browns quarterback competition
BEREA, Ohio -- Three weeks into training camp and through two preseason games, Eric Mangini isn't ready to end Cleveland's neck-and-neck quarterback derby. The first-year Browns coach conceded Monday that the competition between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson remains...
Aug 24, 2009

Godfrey has surgery for broken hand; Beason sits out practice
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Carolina starting free safety Charles Godfrey has undergone surgery for a broken right hand, further depleting the defense. Godfrey was injured in Saturday's preseason loss at Miami. Coach John Fox wouldn't say how long Godfrey will be out, but the...
Aug 24, 2009

Pierce talks football, not Burress guilty plea
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- The Plaxico Burress case is seemingly decided, and Antonio Pierce still isn't saying much about it. Pierce had plenty to say Monday about the New York Giants after their dismal second preseason game, but the middle linebacker refused to comment on...
Aug 24, 2009

Bills' Schobel expected to miss one week with elbow injury
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel will miss at least a week with an injured left elbow. The team's top pass rusher did not practice Monday in Buffalo's first session since a 31-21 loss at Green Bay on Saturday. Without divulging the nature of...
Aug 24, 2009

Dolphins trade Alleman, Ndukwe to Chiefs for undisclosed pick
DAVIE, Fla. -- The Miami Dolphins traded offensive linemen Andy Alleman and Ikechuku Ndukwe to the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday for an undisclosed 2010 draft choice. Ndukwe started 15 games at right guard for Miami last season after an injury to Donald Thomas. Alleman played in...
Aug 24, 2009

Bucs place Crowell on injured reserve, sign two
TAMPA, Fla. -- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed linebacker Angelo Crowell on injured reserve and signed cornerback Darrell Hunter and linebacker Bo Ruud. A torn biceps ended Crowell's season during last weekend's 24-23 preseason victory at Jacksonville. He signed...
Aug 24, 2009

Already thin on offensive line, Seahawks lose Spencer to torn thigh muscle
RENTON, Wash. -- The Seahawks knew they had a puzzle to solve along their offensive line this preseason. They didn't know that puzzle would require advanced medical degrees and crystal balls to solve. Chris Spencer, C Seattle Seahawks Age: 27 ...
Aug 24, 2009

Appeals court rules Delaware sports betting would violate federal ban
PHILADELPHIA -- A federal appeals court ruled Monday that Delaware's plan to offer sports betting would violate a 1992 federal ban on sports wagering. The court in Philadelphia ruled after hearing almost two hours of arguments from attorneys for Delaware and for...
Aug 24, 2009

Vikings' Favre expected to see more playing time vs. Texans
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Brett Favre's crash course in all things Viking ramps up this week, with coach Brad Childress saying Monday he expects the 39-year-old quarterback to play the entire first half of Minnesota's next preseason game at Houston. Favre signed...
Aug 24, 2009

Friday, August 21, 2009

News for 8/21/08

Napa cops reopen probe of Raiders fight
San Francisco Chronicle - Jaxon Van Derbeken, David White - On Thursday, a report on the National Football Post Web site said that Hanson was choked and had his life threatened by Cable, according to unidentified ...

CSU football player taken to hospital
The Associated Press - A Colorado State football player was taken to the hospital more than an hour after practice ended. The player, whose name wasn't released, ...

NFL to stream Sunday Night Football
VatorNews - Chris Caceres -Let's grab a case of beers and watch some Sunday Night Football...on my 23 inch Samsung HD, er...umm...computer monitor. Although it really doesn't make ...

Heat deaths put pressure on football tradition
CNN - By Madison Park A high school football player cools off at practice by dunking his head in a bucket of ice water. For generations, the rite of twice-daily ...

After 4 years away from football, Paulus faces challenge as Orange QB
USA Today - Jack Carey -By Kevin Rivoli for USA TODAY By Jack Carey, USA TODAY SYRACUSE, NY — Greg Paulus wanted a shot at being a starting quarterback for a college football team. ...

Katy, Allen top Texas 5A preseason football poll
Dallas Morning News - Schuyler Dixon - The Associated Press preseason high school football poll released Thursday. At 230 points, Katy was one point better than No. ...

Falcons' offense must carry load as young defense matures
FLOWERY BRANCH -- The offensive formation was already "strong" right, as tight end Tony Gonzalez's presence at the end of the right side of the offensive line indicates. A receiver is split right. As another receiver goes in motion, Falcons quarterback Matt...
Aug 21, 2009 Steve Wyche

Manning puts Colts' offense back on track in victory over Eagles
AJ Mast / Associated Press Colts QB Peyton Manning picked apart the Eagles' defense throughout the first quarter Thursday night. INDIANAPOLIS -- Peyton Manning wanted to fix the Indianapolis Colts' offense Thursday night. Did he ever. The...
Aug 21, 2009

Betts slated to see greater role in Redskins backfield this season
Drew Hallowell / Getty Images Redskins running back Ladell Betts is expected to see a bigger role in the team's offense this season. Fantasy leaguers who had Clinton Portis on their team last season saw the veteran runner fade down the stretch. After...
Aug 21, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Ochocinco steals the show with his kicking as Bengals top Patriots
Michael Dwyer / Associated Press Starting in place of injured Bengals QB Carson Palmer, J.T. O'Sullivan was 10-of-13 passing for 141 yards and one TD. FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- A new role, another new name for Chad Ochocinco. The emergency kicker and...
Aug 21, 2009

Roethlisberger travels with team, but not expected to play for Steelers
PITTSBURGH -- Ben Roethlisberger has traveled with the Pittsburgh Steelers for this weekend's preseason game in Washington, a further sign the quarterback's right foot injury is not serious. The team did not issue an injury update before leaving Friday, saying none...
Aug 21, 2009

Del Rio says Jaguars could be without 10 injured players against Bucs
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Jacksonville Jaguars coach Jack Del Rio expects about 10 players to miss Saturday night's preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although Del Rio declined to list his injured players, defensive back Don Carey (shoulder), cornerback Derek...
Aug 21, 2009

Jets wrap up first training camp under Ryan, but work remains
CORTLAND, N.Y. -- Rex Ryan had a little more fun with his team before breaking the good news. After some silly rookie skits and a vote for the ugliest person on the team Thursday night, the New York Jets coach told his players they were heading home. So long, Cortland.
Aug 21, 2009

Panthers RB Goodson fined $7,500 for throat-slash gesture after TD run
CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The NFL has fined Carolina Panthers running back Mike Goodson $7,500 for making a throat-slash gesture after scoring a touchdown in Monday's preseason game against the New York Giants. Mike Goodson, RB Carolina Panthers Height: 6-0 ...
Aug 21, 2009

Cable calls alleged fight with assistant coach an 'internal issue'
Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable isn't talking about reports he punched defensive assistant Randy Hanson in the jaw and caused injuries that required treatment at a hospital earlier this month. However, multiple sources have told NFL Network that it was Cable who...
Aug 21, 2009

NFL.com 2009 fantasy wide receiver rankings (46-60)
Quarterbacks Running backs Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Dallas Cowboys 46. Patrick Crayton (Auction: $2) Crayton's value increased after Terrell Owens' release, which allows him a chance to start in what should still be a...
Aug 21, 2009

Rookie DE Maybin signs five-year, $25 million contract with Bills
?? Signing status of 2009 NFL Draft first-round picks Aaron Maybin wouldn't let himself believe his long wait to sign with the Bills was about to end until he boarded a plane bound for Buffalo. A few hours after taking off from Baltimore on Friday morning,...
Aug 21, 2009

Running backs rule the first round of final three-round mock draft
Continuing our monthly one-man, three-round mock series, let's take a look at who has moved up, down and out of our latest draft. As always, each numbered position represents an individual fantasy team, so no more than one quarterback, two running backs or...
Aug 21, 2009 Michael Fabiano

NFL.com 2009 fantasy running back rankings (16-30)
Quarterbacks Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Detroit Lions 16. Kevin Smith (Auction: $15) Smith had a rollercoaster ride of a rookie season. He opened as the Lions' starter, lost that role to Rudi Johnson after four...
Aug 21, 2009

NFL.com 2009 fantasy wide receiver rankings (16-30)
Quarterbacks Running backs Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Denver Broncos 16. Brandon Marshall (Auction: $13) Marshall's fantasy value has taken a hit. He lost his quarterback, Jay Cutler, in a blockbuster trade with the Bears and he is...
Aug 21, 2009

Titans WR Davis arrested, charged with DUI in Nashville
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee Titans wide receiver Chris Davis has been charged with DUI after being stopped by police early Friday for speeding in downtown Nashville. Chris Davis, WR Tennessee Titans Career Statistics Games/Starts: 17/0 Receptions: 7 ...
Aug 21, 2009

Signing status of 2009 NFL Draft first-round picks
Pk Player Pos. Team Status Contract 1. Matthew Stafford QB Detroit Signed 6 years, $72 million ($41.7M guaranteed) 2. Jason Smith OT St. Louis Signed 5 years, $61.775 million ($33M guaranteed) 3. Tyson Jackson DE Kansas City Signed 5 years, $57 million ($31M guaranteed) 4....
Aug 21, 2009

NFL.com 2009 fantasy wide receiver rankings (31-45)
Quarterbacks Running backs Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Green Bay Packers 31. Donald Driver (Auction: $4) Driver posted his fifth consecutive 1,000-yard season in 2008. However, the emergence of Greg Jennings, not to mention several...
Aug 20, 2009

NFL.com 2009 fantasy wide receiver rankings (61-70)
Quarterbacks Running backs Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Chicago Bears 61. Earl Bennett (Auction: $1) A viable sleeper candidate, Bennett is slated to open this season as a starter for the Bears. With his former Vanderbilt teammate...
Aug 20, 2009

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the American Football League
AFL-NFL merger almost booted ... by a kicker How did a kicker set into motion the long chain of events that put the AFL-NFL merger into place and helped catapult pro football into stratospheric heights of popularity? That's the story of Hungarian-born kicker...
Aug 20, 2009

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

News for 8/19/09

NCAA Football Preview - Western Michigan Broncos
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino -Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: After struggling to a 5-7 record in 2007,

NBC signs two-year extension for 'Sunday Night Football'
Albany Times Union - Pete Dougherty -NBC announced that it has signed a two-year contract extension with the league to continue televising “Sunday Night Football.” The NFL earlier locked up ...

College football preseason? Not a great idea
Detroit Free Press - Jamie Samuelsen - I'm sure that most coaches in college football would love this. Except, of course, for the coaches of smaller programs who would love nothing more than to ...

Baldwin Urges Football Fans To Forgive Vick
San Francisco Chronicle - Alec Baldwin is urging football fans to forgive shamed quarterback Michael Vick, insisting it's time to let the star make up for his crimes against animals. ...

NCAA Football Preview - Kent State Golden Flashes
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino - ‎Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: The Golden Flashes struggled through most of ...

NCAA Football Preview - Northern Illinois Huskies
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino -Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: After going 2-10 in 2007 the Huskies made ...

Phillip Fulmer on Kiffin: 'You better be able to back it up'
Newsday - Neil Best - Sure, I'ma native of the New York area, but even I was able to recognize a famous SEC football coach when I saw one at CBS College Sports' studios at ...

NCAA Football Preview - Ball State Cardinals
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino -Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: Since 2004 when the Cardinals went just 2-9, ...

NCAA Football Preview - Temple Owls
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: After posting just four wins from 2003 to 2006 ...

NCAA Football Preview - Toledo Rockets
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: 2008 was another down year for the Toledo ...

NCAA Football Preview - Buffalo Bulls
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: The 2008 campaign was a magical one for coach ...

Football greats in motivational film
Providence Journal - Red Zone is designed to motivate high school football players and give them access to professional coaches and players who will present inside tips on ...

NCAA Football Preview - Akron Zips
Seattle Post Intelligencer - John Agovino - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: 2008 was the third consecutive season the Zips ...

Penn State's Crawford is a Brit who can hit
ESPN - Adam Rittenberg - ‎He grew up in England, moved to New Jersey as a 16-year-old and didn't start playing football until his junior year of high school. Crawford, who starred in ...

Miami AD confident in direction program is headed
ESPN - Heather Dinich - There is a sense of confidence in the direction Miami's football program is headed, and it starts at the top. "I believe in what he's doing," Hocutt said. ...

Quick Take: Eagles at Colts
AJ Mast / Associated press Peyton Manning got sacked three times in only one series of action last week. Keep your eye on ... On NFL Network: Philadelphia Eagles at Indianapolis Colts, Friday, August 21 1 p.m. ET (Replay) ?? NFL...
Aug 19, 2009

Quick Take: Broncos at Seahawks
Ben Liebenberg / NFL.com RB Justin Forsett could end up making his way into the Seahawks' running back rotation. Keep your eye on ... On NFL Network: Denver Broncos at Seattle Seahawks, Saturday, 7:30 p.m. (local) (Live!) ?? NFL...
Aug 19, 2009

Quick Take: Falcons at St. Louis
Carlos Osorio / Associated Press RB Michael Turner was in midseason form in the first week of the preseason. Keep your eye on ... On NFL Network: Atlanta Falcons at St. Louis, Saturday, 2 a.m. ET (Tape delayed) ?? NFL Network preseason...
Aug 19, 2009

Favre returns (again): QB signs with Vikings, hopes for Super Bowl
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Brett Favre unretired again and will wear purple this time. Chew on that, cheeseheads. Pulling an about-face on his playing status for the second straight summer, the three-time NFL MVP quarterback will suit up for his old rival, the Minnesota...
Aug 19, 2009

Mendenhall, Rice could be valuable behind injury-prone veterans
Gregory Shamus / Getty Images Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall was limited to just 19 carries as a rookie due to an injured shoulder. Fantasy prognosticators and owners alike spend much of the offseason compiling a list of potential sleepers who could...
Aug 19, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Entering second season as the starter, Rodgers comfortable as team leader
GREEN BAY, Wis. -- With all due respect to their unique community ownership arrangement, the Green Bay Packers belong to one person: Aaron Rodgers. Even with Brett Favre making new headlines by signing Tuesday with the arch-rival Minnesota??Vikings,...
Aug 19, 2009 Vic Carucci

Top 10 nicknames in NFL history
Monsters of the Midway From Bronko Nagurski to Brian Urlacher, the Bears have been led by some of the most familiar characters in the game's history. Watch Bears history Key players: Bronko Nagurski Dick Butkus Over the Hill Gang Redskins...
Aug 19, 2009

Top 10 weather games in NFL history
Red Right 88 This 1980 AFC Divisional Playoff Game at cold Cleveland Municipal Stadium had a memorable, yet painful, finish for Browns fans. Watch clip 1980 standings Photos: Braving the weather 1979 Buccaneers vs. Chiefs Monsoon Torrential rain...
Aug 19, 2009

Marshall says directive created trust issues with Broncos
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Brandon Marshall has no problem working with the scout team while he plays his way back into Pro Bowl form. What is bothering him is the way the Denver Broncos handled his acquittal on misdemeanor battery charges last week. In his first public...
Aug 19, 2009

Running backs rule the first round of final three-round mock draft
LM Otero / Associated Press Cowboys running back Marion Barber will be one of the better options at his position in fantasy drafts. Continuing our monthly one-man, three-round mock series, let's take a look at who has moved up, down and out of our...
Aug 19, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Broncos PR staffer's alleged directive about Marshall concerns WR's agent
Brandon Marshall's agent, Kennard McGuire, said Tuesday that he remains concerned about how a Denver Broncos public relations staff member handled his client's acquittal on misdemeanor battery charges last week. NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reported Monday that,...
Aug 19, 2009

Broncos WR Marshall says team staffer's directive created trust issues
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Brandon Marshall has no problem working with the scout team while he plays his way back into Pro Bowl form. What is bothering him is the way the Denver Broncos handled his acquittal on misdemeanor battery charges last week. In his...
Aug 19, 2009

Browns' Mangini not ready to reveal which QB will start vs. Lions
BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns coach Eric Mangini is keeping his starting quarterback for Saturday's preseason home opener -- and beyond -- a secret. Mangini declined to say Wednesday whether Derek Anderson or Brady Quinn will start at quarterback against the Detroit Lions.
Aug 19, 2009

Steelers offensive starters to play one quarter against Redskins
LATROBE, Pa. -- The Pittsburgh Steelers' offensive starters are expected to play about one quarter against the Washington Redskins on Saturday night, or about the same amount of time they were on the field against the Arizona Cardinals. "We'll see how many snaps...
Aug 19, 2009

Cardinals hope to show 2008 was no fluke, build on last year's success
Ross D. Franklin / Associated Press Kurt??Warner and the Cardinals aim to not repeat the fate of former Super Bowl losers. FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- As defending NFC West title holders and the reigning NFC champions, the Cardinals are in a far different place now than...
Aug 19, 2009 Pat Kirwan

Jackson, Welker have additional value in PPR fantasy leagues
Greg Trott / Associated Press Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker is an absolute superstar in fantasy leagues that reward points for catches. I'm in a PPR league that drafts in a few weeks, so I've been reading everything I can find. However, all of...
Aug 19, 2009 Michael Fabiano

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

8/18/09 for Today

NCAA Football Preview - Virginia Cavaliers
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: Al Groh is entering his ninth season at the helm ...

Michigan, UConn to meet in football series
Chicago Tribune - . That game will be moved to Oct. 9. The Big East's Huskies have never played a football game against the Wolverines, out of the Big Ten.

Football: Crawford takes over at Aldine
Houston Chronicle - Todd Hveem - A former Green Bay Packers' wide receiver is about to make his debut as Aldine High School's head football coach. ...

NCAA Football Preview - Duke Blue Devils
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: David Cutcliffe was brought into Durham to revive ...

The top 10 NFL football video games of all time
Examiner.com - In honor of my picking up a copy of Madden 10 (thanks, multiple Gamestop trade-in scams deals), here is the list of the ten greatest football video games of ...

NCAA Football Preview - Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: The first year of the Paul Johnson era went ...

NCAA Football Preview - Clemson Tigers
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes -Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: To say that the Tigers underachieved in 2008 is ...

NCAA Football Preview - North Carolina Tar Heels
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes -Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: In year two of the Butch Davis era, ...

NCAA Football Preview - Maryland Terrapins
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - ‎Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: At one point last year, the Maryland Terrapins ...

NCAA Football Preview - Florida State Seminoles
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: The Seminoles have not finished a season in the ...

NCAA Football Preview - Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: The 2008 season was another successful one for ...

NCAA Football Preview - NC State Wolfpack
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Scott Haynes - Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - 2008 SEASON IN REVIEW: Year two of the Tom O'Brien era got off to a ...

Cary football player recovering after collapse
Cary News - Mike Blake -Cary High School sophomore Michael White was recovering this week after collapsing during a football scrimmage at Wakefield ...

Big Ten football round table: Wisconsin Badgers
Examiner.com - Here are my answers for the Wisconsin Badger football team. Q – What does your team need to do to improve on their 2008 season? A – Quarterback play will be ...

COUNTDOWN TO KICKOFF High school football preview
The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com -The Plain Dealer presents 24 consecutive days of Northeast Ohio high school football previews, from the Aug. 3 opening of training camps to the first games ...

Former Ky. coach re-indicted in player death case
The Associated Press - A grand jury has re-indicted a former Kentucky high school football coach on an additional charge in the case of a player who collapsed at practice and ...

Brown could steal goal-line work from Slaton in Houston's backfield
David J. Phillip / Associated Press Texans running back Chris Brown could turn out to be a major player in the team's backfield this season. Fantasy owners who landed Steve Slaton last season fielded one of the top sleepers of the 2008 season. Slaton...
Michael Fabiano

Showtime to air NFL Films AFL documentary
Celebrating the 50th season of "The Other League" with a special five-part documentary NEW YORK -- This fall, Showtime Sports and the National Football League celebrate the 50th season of the maverick American Football League, from its tumultuous beginnings to...

Showtime to air NFL Films AFL documentary
Celebrating the 50th season of "The Other League" with a special five-part documentary NEW YORK -- This fall, Showtime Sports and the National Football League celebrate the 50th season of the maverick American Football League, from its tumultuous beginnings to...

Cable calls alleged fight with assistant coach an 'internal issue'
Oakland Raiders head coach Tom Cable isn't talking about reports he punched defensive assistant Randy Hanson in the jaw and caused injuries that required treatment at a hospital earlier this month. However, multiple sources have told NFL Network that it was Cable who...

Rams will likely be without Bulger for two weeks due to finger fracture
ST. LOUIS -- St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger has fractured the pinkie finger of his throwing hand and could be out for at least two weeks. Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo said Bulger will not play in Friday's preseason game against Atlanta and is doubtful for the Aug....

NFL.com 2009 fantasy quarterback rankings (1-15)
Running backs Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis New Orleans Saints 1. Drew Brees (Auction: $19) Brees didn't receive as much fanfare heading into last season as Tom Brady, Tony Romo, and Peyton Manning. But the veteran out...

Injured RB Moore certain he'll be ready for Steelers season opener
Mewelde Moore, RB Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 Statistics Carries: 140 Yards: 588 Touchdowns: 5 LATROBE, Pa. -- Pittsburgh Steelers running back Mewelde Moore remains out with the hamstring injury that has kept him from practicing since Aug. 4, although coach...

NFL.com 2009 fantasy wide receiver rankings (16-30)
Quarterbacks Running backs Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Cincinnati Bengals 16. Chad Ochocinco (Auction: $12) Ochocinco was one of the biggest disappointments in fantasy football last season. He had significant statistical decreases across the...

Despite rotator cuff injury, Favre decides he's ready to return
Between Brett Favre's May arthroscopic surgery on his right throwing shoulder and his July 28 decision that he would not join the Minnesota Vikings, "a little rotator cuff tear" was revealed in that shoulder, his agent, Bus Cook, said on Tuesday. "And...
Thomas George

NFL.com 2009 fantasy quarterback rankings (16-30)
Running backs Wide receivers Tight ends Kickers Defenses Team Player Analysis Seattle Seahawks 16. Matt Hasselbeck (Auction: $3) Knee and back injuries limited Hasselbeck to seven games in 2008 and landed him on the waiver wire in most leagues. His value...

Quick Take: Bradshaw shows his stuff
Bill Kostroun / Associated Press Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw scored the game's first touchdown. What we learned ... QB Jake Delhomme can hold on to the football: Delhomme threw five interceptions and lost one fumble the last time we saw him, in a 33-13 loss to...

Packers not shocked by Favre's move to rival Minnesota
GREEN BAY, Wis. -- Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Barnett has a warning for Brett Favre: He will be looking for you. Barnett had a little fun with Favre returning to the NFL to play for the rival Vikings. Hamming it up for cameras, Barnett said he respects...

Favre to return (again): QB signs with Vikings
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Brett Favre is coming back for more, as the 39-year-old quarterback turned his back on retirement for the second time in as many years. The Minnesota Vikings have signed three-time NFL MVP Brett Favre, the team announced on its...

Raiders thin at receiver after Schilens suffers broken foot
NAPA, Calif. -- Chaz Schilens, projected to be one of the Oakland Raiders' top two receivers this season, broke a bone in his left foot while running a route during Tuesday's joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers. Raiders coach Tom Cable didn't provide a timeline...

Back injury forces Seahawks LT Jones to miss practice again
RENTON, Wash. -- Nine-time Pro Bowl left tackle Walter Jones left Seattle Seahawks practice early Monday with an apparent back injury. The 35-year-old linchpin to Seattle's offensive line for the past decade was practicing for the third time since training camp began July 31....

New QB Vick runs scout team at Eagles practice, won't travel this week
PHILADELPHIA -- Michael Vick was under center and Brian Westbrook in the backfield. Brent Celek took his spot at tight end. In Vick's ideal scenario, he'd be taking snaps with the Philadelphia Eagles first-team offense in a regular season game, not just a routine...

Quick Take: Panthers at Dolphins
Bill Kostroun / Associated Press Jake Delhomme finished 5 of 9 for 38 yards in one quarter of play Monday. Keep your eye on ... 1. Carolina's ball protection: The Panthers' lasting image from 2008 was a six-turnover performance against the Cardinals in...

Top 10 home-field advantages of all-time
?? Agree, disagree? Discuss Metropolitan Stadium Before the Vikings moved into the climate-controlled H.H.H. Metrodome, the team enjoyed the greatest home-field advantage in football. Watch clip ???? Recalling the Purple People Eaters ???? Vikings history ...

Quarterbacks taking on greater role in fantasy football success
NFL.com Illustration Peyton Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady are among the elite fantasy quarterbacks. The NFL has become more of a passing league in recent seasons, so it's no surprise to see the value of quarterbacks rising in fantasy football.
Michael Fabiano

Favre's presence turns vanilla Vikings into a spicy, dangerous mix
NFL.com illustration With Brett Favre and Adrian Peterson in his backfield, Vikings coach Brad Childress has multiple weapons to turn to. When Brett Favre signed with the New York Jets last year, it took him a good two months before he felt comfortable in his...
Pat Kirwan