WEEK 10

Week Ten Saturday Team Reports

November 11, 2006


KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (5-3) AT MIAMI DOLPHINS (2-6) 1:00 PM EST

CHIEFS

Saturday Update: The absence of starting SLB Derrick Johnson (ankle-out) slightly enhances the fantasy value of some of Miami's offensive skill position players especially RB Ronnie Brown.

Starting FS Greg Wesley's (shoulder-questionable) status is considered to be a game-time decision. Rookie S Jarrad Page backs him up.

Friday Update: Starting QB Trent Green (head-out) is just doing some limited throwing as he did last week but hasn't gotten cleared to practice yet. Backup QB Damon Huard will continue to start for him and could keep the job the rest of the way if they keep on winning.

Starting ORT Kevin Sampson (foot-questionable) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out with backup OT Kyle Turley starting for him again.

Starting G Brian Waters (knee) is expected to miss at least a few weeks with backup OL Chris Bober likely starting for him.

Starting DE Tamba Hali (hip-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting SLB Derrick Johnson (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday was downgraded to out with backup LB Keyaron Fox starting for him.

Starting FS Greg Wesley (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday but they want to see how he responds to practicing before giving him the green light to start on Sunday.

Starting SS Sammy Knight (ankle) was added to the injury report as probable Friday after getting hurt at the end of practice but he should be able to start.

DOLPHINS

Saturday Update: Injuries to the Chief offensive line should mean good things for the resurgent Dolphin pass rush. Starting DE Jason Taylor should be able to put pressure on former Dolphins backup QB Damon Huard.

QB Dan Marino campaigned for Huard to be his replacement before retiring but front office officials ultimately chose QB Jay Fiedler and Huard eventually ended up in New England as starting QB Tom Brady's backup.

Friday Update: QB Daunte Culpepper (knee-doubtful) still isn't practicing while he rehabs his surgically repaired knee. Head coach Nick Saban strongly denied a broadcast report about backup QB Cleo Lemon starting this week's game. Veteran QB Joey Harrington remains the starter. Lemon, who has a strong arm and is well thought of by some teams around the league, could get some playing time once the team is officially out of the playoff race.

Backup DE David Bowens (hamstring) didn't practice Friday and was added to the injury report as questionable.


HOUSTON TEXANS (2-6) AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (5-3) 1:00 PM EST

TEXANS

Saturday Update: RB Domanick Davis (knee-IR) continues to rehab.

“He’s doing fine. I have seen him very little as we move on here. He’s with trainers when we’re in meetings and those type of things, but (running backs coach) Chick (Harris) talks to him all the time, and the rehab is going well. He’s working with (strength and conditioning coach) Dan Riley When our team’s in meeting and those type of things. He’s doing all he can do," head coach Gary Kubiak said this week.

Kubiak estimated that it's a 50-50 shot that backup WR/KR Jerome Mathis (foot) returns to the playing field this season.

The release of backup WR/KR Edell Shepherd came to no surprise considering recently acquired CB/KR Dexter Wynn returned kicks last week.

The team regains the services of veteran LB Kailee Wong this week. Wong was inactive last week because of a hamstring injury.

"He's ready to go," Kubiak said. "He practiced all week, and he can back up a lot of spots."

The team is looking at Wong backing up strong side starter Shantee Orr and starting MLB DeMeco Ryans.

Backup MLB DaShon Polk has an MCL sprain and is expected to miss two to four weeks.

Friday Update: The club released backup WR/KR Edell Shepherd and signed WR Derrick Lewis off of the practice squad to replace him.

Backup C Drew Hodgdon (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game.

Starting OLT Ephraim Salaam (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Mario Williams (foot-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Starting DE Anthony Weaver (knee) was added to the injury report as probable Friday but he practiced and is expected to start.

Backup DT Lional Dalton (ankle) missed practice again Thursday and remains questionable to play.

Backup MLB DaShon Polk (knee) is out.

JAGUARS

Saturday Update: The club released backup FB Rich Alexis and signed OT Wayne Hunter off of the practice squad. The move of bringing Hunter on the roster could be because starting OLT Khalif Barnes was charged with DUI on Saturday and it's not known if he'll be allowed to play on Sunday. Rookie OT Richard Collier is listed as Barnes' backup. Unfortunately, backup OT Stockar McDougle (ankle) is doubtful to play this week.

QB David Garrard is 6-1 lifetime as a starter in the NFL and he already holds a win against his opponent Sunday, the Texans. Garrard's win over the Texans came last season on Christmas Eve and he performed well throwing for 292 yards and a touchdown.

WR Reggie Williams has only one catch in his last three games.

"We didn't have much production in the passing game in Philadelphia, nobody did, so that kind of takes care of that. He'll get opportunities, he needs to catch the ball and do good things with it. The better you look and the better you do the more opportunities come your way. He's still working hard, still practicing hard and we're still looking for ways to get him involved," head coach Jack Del Rio said this week.

Starting DT Marcus Stroud (ankle) remains out.

"I think we're getting closer. What it boiled down to is when the doctors told me that there was a bone bruise involved, which all along we were treating a ligament (injury), the ligament was healed and it was like, 'OK, here we go.' And he still had a lot of soreness. So when we did further testing we discovered a bone bruise that was the problem and so that changes how you approach it, and the wise thing to do for a guy, this is a guy who is going to be a great player for a long time here, the wise thing to do for his career, for us long term, for him long term is to rest him and let that heal. That's what we've done," the head coach said. "I think it's in the same category. I think when you're talking about a bone bruise you're talking about potentially a softened up bone chipping away and being a long-term problem for a guy that's got a bright career ahead of him. I just don't think the trade-off right now makes sense. We're trying to do the right thing by him and by the team as well. We're hopeful for next week. A few weeks back we said 'OK, it's going to be at least two or three weeks,' and here we are going through that period of time and getting close."

Friday Update: The Jaguars still include a season-high 18 players listed on their injury report, although most are expected to play.

Backup QB David Garrard keep the starting job for the foreseeable future. Former starter Byron Leftwich (left ankle-questionable) was downgraded from probable Friday when he was unable even to take any scout team reps.

#3 QB Quinn Gray has backed up Garrard the last two weeks. As we've noted a few times this week, we're told the only way Garrard won't start the rest of the season is if he puts a string of bad games together.

Starting DT Marcus Stroud (right ankle) was downgraded to out from doubtful on Friday. He injured the ankle originally before the season opener, and didn't practice this week, He'll miss his fifth straight game.

Veteran DL Rob Meier, who started the first four games at DE for Reggie Hayward (IR), is now back inside starting in Stroud's place, and backup DE Bobby McCray (hip-probable) starts for Meier. McCray is one of seven players listed as probable but practiced fully each day this week.

Listed as doubtful are starting FB Derrick Wimbush (ankle), backup OL Stockar McDougle (ankle), and backup LB Jorge Cordova (hamstring). None practiced this week.

Wimbush missed last Sunday's game, McDougle will likely miss his fourth straight game this Sunday vs. the Texans and Cordova pulled his hamstring last Sunday. The Jaguars activated FB Rich Alexis off the practice squad last week, but the team also went with a lot of one-back/two tight end formations.

Three starting defenders - SS Donovin Darius (knee), CB Rashean Mathis (hamstring), and DT John Henderson (hamstring) - plus dime back Terry Cousin (groin) and starting TE George Wrighster (back) - are questionable. Darius missed practice Wednesday and Thursday but returned for a full day on Friday. Backup S Gerald Sensabaugh is Darius' backup. Mathis and Henderson worked fully Thursday and Friday after sitting out the previous day's session and are expected to start, as is Darius. Mathis and Henderson both tweaked their respective hamstrings in last week's win and came out after the score became lopsided.

Cousin has missed the last two games but practiced each day this week, while Wrighster was downgraded from probable Friday despite practicing. He was added to the injury report as probable on Thursday when he sat out practice.

Rookie first-rounder Marcedes Lewis has been working his way more into the offense as the season has progressed and veteran Kyle Brady is still an above-average blocker.

Starters RB Fred Taylor (groin), MLB Daryl Smith (hip), rookie WLB Clint Ingram (shoulder) and CB Brian Williams (thigh) are five of the six other players listed as probable. All practiced each day this week and Ingram, Smith, and Williams were all added to the injury report Thursday. All are expected to start.

Backup DE Marcellus Wiley (groin) is also listed as probable and he, too, practiced each day this week. He missed a month of action earlier in the season but has played the last two weeks.


SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (6-2) AT CINCINNATI BENGALS (4-4) 1:00 PM EST

CHARGERS

Saturday Update: Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle) is not only out for Sunday's game but he believes he could miss even more time.

"Recovery from an injury like this is a slow process," Castillo said. "It's one of those things that take time."

Friday Update: Backup WR Vincent Jackson (leg-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting DE Igor Olshansky (personal) was removed from the injury report after practicing Friday. With starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle) being downgraded to out on Friday, look Olshansky to start opposite DE Jacques Cesaire on Sunday. Backup DE Derrick Robinson (foot-questionable) returned to practice Friday and should be able to play.

Starting OLB Shaun Phillips (calf-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting FS Marlon McCree (calf-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S Bhawoh Jue (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

BENGALS

Saturday Update: Starting RB Rudi Johnson (thigh-probable) is expected to start after returning to practice on Friday. Unfortunately, Johnson has been a slight fantasy disappointment this season. His rushing output has been meager as of late, as he's rushed for more than 78 yards in a game just once since week three. He faces a Charger defense that is giving up just an average of 85 yards rushing per game and has only allowed four total rushing touchdowns on the season.

Friday Update: Starting RB Rudi Johnson (thigh-probable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.

#1 WR Chad Johnson complained after last week’s game about not getting the ball enough but it’s not as if the Bengals aren’t trying. Starting QB Carson Palmer has thrown to Johnson 69 times, completing 40 passes and drawing four penalties. Johnson is eight catches behind his eight-game total last season but he’s got 234 fewer yards. Palmer and Johnson have connected on just three of 17 deep (plus-20 yards) pass attempts this season. Johnson had 16 catches of 20 or more yards last season, including 11 of 30 or more yards.

Starting TE Reggie Kelly (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting C Rich Braham (knee) remains out with backup C Eric Ghiaciuc starting again for him.

Starting OLT Levi Jones (knee) remains out with backup OL Andrew Whitworth starting again for him.

Starting ORT Willie Anderson (probable-shoulder) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DT Sam Adams (probable-knee) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting MLB Brian Simmons (doubtful-neck) and backup S Kevin Kaesviharn (knee-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and aren't expected to play.

Rookie MLB Ahmad Brooks starts for Simmons again and could keep the job once Simmons is healthy.

Starting CB Tory James (knee-probable) practiced again Friday but the team may move first-round pick CB Johnathan Joseph into the starting lineup over him on Sunday.


CLEVELAND BROWNS (2-6) AT ATLANTA FALCONS (5-3) 1:00 PM EST

BROWNS

Saturday Update: Backup WR Dennis Northcutt (ribs) was upgraded to probable after Friday's practice.

Starting TE Kellen Winslow is having a very good season despite the fact that he admitted this week that he's no where near 100 percent due to pain in his surgically repaired knee. The pain, he said, is coming from scar tissue. This explains why he gets at least one day off (usually Wednesday) every week and is usually listed as questionable which he is again every week.

Starting WR Braylon Edwards hasn't put up the numbers that many thought he might this year but that could change.

“I think Braylon has been working hard and he has had some situations where he has made some plays. We haven’t gotten the ball to him as much as he would like. We have a game plan where he will have an opportunity to make some plays. These players have to take advantage of their opportunity when it comes. He has shown that he can do that when he gets some chances. The opportunities don’t always come at the same time or at the same amount. When they come and you are ready, you can take advantage. He would like every ball to come to him, but we’re not able to do that all of the time. We know that he has talent and we like the way he works. We’ll try to get him the ball the best we can within the game plan," head coach Romeo Crennel said this week.

Friday Update: Starting QB Charlie Frye (thumb) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting WR Joe Jurevicius (back-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #3 WR/PR Dennis Northcutt (back) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting TE Kellen Winslow (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting ORT Ryan Tucker (illness-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup OT Kelly Butler (wrist) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available and was upgraded to probable.

Starting LG Joe Andruzzi (knee-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start. He's on a limited practice schedule in order to get him ready to play. Starting LG Cosey Coleman (knee-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start. Backup OL Lennie Friedman is still expected to see some snaps for either player in the game.

Starting DE Orpheus Roye (hamstring-questionable) was limited again Friday but the feeling is he'll be able to still start.

“I’ve felt pretty good. We’re going to give me one more day to go out there and just keep it warm. I’ll be ready to go," he said Friday.

Roye was inactive last week.

“I probably could have played, but I didn’t want to risk injury. This was just an extra week to get it stronger will let me go out there and play this weekend.”

Backup DL Nick Eason would start again for him if needed.

Starting OLB Willie McGinest (ankle-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start. Backup OLB Matt Stewart (head-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.

Starting ILB D'Qwell Jackson (ankle) was limited on Friday and was added to the injury report as probable but he's still expected to start. Backup ILB Leon Williams (ankle-questionable) didn't practice Friday and likely won't be able to play.

Starting CB Daven Holly (illness-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Starting CB Leigh Bodden (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out. The team is expected to start backup CB Ralph Brown for him. Rookie CB Jereme Perry (ankle-questionable) was limited again Friday but he should be able to play. He'll also in be the mix for playing time with Bodden out.

FALCONS

Saturday Update: Starting RB Warrick Dunn could see more carries than usual on Sunday as #2 RB Jerious Norwood (knee-questionable) likely won't play and probably won't play. The Browns give up about 142 yards/game on the ground.

Friday Update: Their depleted secondary got some good news Friday as rookie CB Jimmy Williams (ankle) returned to practice after missing Thursday's session with a sprained ankle suffered earlier in the day in special teams drills. Williams will be called upon to start for CB Jason Webster (torn groin muscle-out), who will miss at least a month of action.

The other starting CB, DeAngelo Hall (hamstring-questionable) sat out practice Friday for the second straight day. If Hall can't play, backup CB Omare Lowe would likely start and backup CB/KR/PR Allen Rossum would assume the nickel role as he did last Sunday in Detroit with backup DB Kevin Mathis (IR-neck) having gone down on the opening kickoff. He also will continue in his roles as the team's punt and kickoff return man.

Besides Mathis, the team also placed starting RG Kynan Forney (right shoulder) on IR. His shoulder popped out of socket three times in the last month and his play was suffering too much to keep him on the field.

Backup OL Tyson Clabo, who has started two of the past three games, will move into Forney's slot. Backup OL P.J. Alexander, who has made his first two NFL starts the last two weeks, will start at LG Sunday for Matt Lehr, whose four-game suspension ends after Sunday's game.

To replace Forney and Mathis on the roster, the team signed veteran free agent SLance Schulters and signed RB Marlion Jackson from their practice squad. Jackson may even be active Sunday, with rookie RB Jerious Norwood (questionable) unable to practice this week due to a grade-1 MCL sprain suffered in Detroit. He'll likely be inactive Sunday since he didn't practice all week.

Six other players are listed as questionable, but all of them practiced Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday's session.

That group includes five starters - TE Alge Crumpler (ankle), DT Grady Jackson (knee), ORT Todd Weiner (knee), WR Ashley Lelie (groin) and MLB Ed Hartwell (knees) - in addition to backup FB Fred McCray (knee).

Hartwell is unlikely to play until he re-gains more effective lateral movement, stemming from late-August scopes on both knees. He played two games in a row but didn't show that he was completely healthy.

Crumpler is expected to start.

And with Hartwell out again, starting WLB Keith Brooking has moved back into the middle and backup LB Demorrio Williams starts at WLB

Jackson's knee is a chronic condition that isn't serious enough to force the veteran to miss any game-time. With his age and weight, Jackson is likely to continue to receive a day or two off from practice as the season wears on.

McCrary has also missed a day or two of practice in recent weeks but is available for game-action.

Starting RDE John Abraham remains out and is expected to miss least a few more weeks, but he is progressing in his recovery from surgery Oct. 24 to repair a tear in a lower abdominal muscle.

Abraham has played in only parts of two games this year and opted for surgery after the injury wasn't showing dramatic improvement.

In his absence, second-year DE Chauncey Davis continues to start and play predominantly on the left side on rushing downs. Starting DE Patrick Kerney has been moving to the right side when Davis in on the field and staying on the left in passing situations.


BALTIMORE RAVENS (6-2) AT TENNESSEE TITANS (2-6) 1:00 PM EST

RAVENS

Saturday Update: Starting MLB Ray Lewis (back-questionable) is more to the doubtful side because he wasn't able to practice all week and his back hasn't loosened up yet. He did have tests taken which were negative.

"Everything is clean, everything is fine. It's stiff. It hurts," head coach Brian Billick said after Friday's practice.

Backup MLB Mike Smith would start if needed.

"Mike, like any player, at some point, everybody has to be able to step up. Mike had a great preseason for us and has been a solid special-teams performer for us, so I don't doubt Mike's ability to come in and do the job," the head coach said.

Friday Update: Backup WR Clarence Moore (abdomen) was added to the injury report as questionable on Friday.

Starting TE Todd Heap (ankle-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DT Kelly Gregg (wrist-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting MLB Ray Lewis (back-questionable) missed practice again Friday and his status now is considered a game-time decision. The team is preparing for backup MLB Mike Smith to start since Lewis didn't practice all week.

Starting SLB Adalius Thomas (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting FS Ed Reed (neck-questionable) did limited work on Friday but the team believes he'll be able to start.

Backup CB Corey Ivy (abdomen-questionable) did limited work this week but probably will be held out of Sunday's game.

TITANS

Saturday Update: The team signed LB Terna Nande from the practice squad late-Friday and placed backup LB Rob Reynolds (quadriceps) on IR. The team drafted Nande in the fifth-round last April.

The team made a concerted effort this week to get rookie S Calvin Lowry more reps with the first-team during practice.

"We just got him some reps,'' head coach Jeff Fisher said. "He hasn't been in a position where we have given him practice reps. He is doing fine, and doing very well on special teams and after a few reps this week he has a pretty good feel for what he is doing.''

Friday Update:Veteran DE Antwan Odom (right knee-out) had his knee scoped Thursday and will miss several more weeks. He was injured in the third quarter Oct. 29, but this injury isn't related to the one on the same knee that forced him to miss the first three games of the campaign.

The Titans believe this is the week starting WR David Givens (thumb-questionable) returns to action after missing the last four games. He's practiced for the last two weeks, but simply wasn't ready to catch the ball in game-action. Backup WR Brandon Jones has started for Givens.

Also questionable is starting SLB David Thornton (shoulder), who saw limited snaps vs. the Jaguars, only playing in nickel and dime situations. He rested Wednesday, but returned for full days of work Thursday and Friday, although Thornton has acknowledged that the injury, a torn tendon in his right rotator cuff, will likely bother him the rest of the season and may require surgery.

With Thornton out in the base defense last week, starting MLB Peter Sirmonmoved to Thornton's spot and rookie LB Stephen Tulloch went in at MLB, a shift that likely will occur at least part of the game this week as well.

#3 WR/KR Bobby Wade (separated left shoulder-questionable) is again listed this week. He was injured Oct. 29 but played in his usual roles last week despite getting minimal practice time leading up to the game. He did practice each day this week with the main issue with him being pain tolerance moving forward.

Starting RG Benji Olson (back-questionable) was added to the injury report on Thursday when he missed practice. The injury isn't expected to force him to miss any game-action, but he also rested Friday. Backup Eugene Amano took Olson's reps the last two days and would start for him if Olson is unable to go vs. the Ravens.

Recently signed free agents TE Ben Hartsock (hamstring-questionable) and DE DeQuincy Scott (foot-questionable) are again both listed as questionable, but Scott practiced with his new teammates for the first time each day this week and could be active Sunday. Hartsock still hasn't begun practicing.

Rounding out the injury report are backups FB/TE Casey Cramer (concussion-questionable) and LB Rob Reynolds (quadriceps-questionable). Neither practiced this week. Reynolds was inactive Sunday while Cramer suffered his concussion vs. the Jaguars.

Starting SS Chris Hope was slowed by a virus earlier in the week but is expected at full-strength Sunday and will start and isn't listed on the injury report.


BUFFALO BILLS (3-5) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (8-0) 1:00 PM EST

BILLS

Saturday Update: Backup WR Roscoe Parrish could see an extended role with backup WR Josh Reed (bruised kidney) out likely for more than one game.

"I feel good about him," head coach Dick Jauron said this week. "I'd say his biggest asset is run after catch or just his run in general once he gets the ball in his hands, whether it's a return or catching the ball. The separation (ability) is huge because it allows him to get to a place where he can catch it. His biggest thing is his ability to run."

Friday Update: Starting RB Willis McGahee (ribs) is out for several weeks (at least four and probably more) with backup RB Anthony Thomas starting for him. #3 RB Shaun Williams will back him up. The team doesn't have a third healthy back on their active roster.

Backup WR Josh Reed (kidney) is out with a bruised kidney. Head coach Dick Jauron said backup WRs Roscoe Parrish, Andre Davis, andSam Aiken (probable-hamstring) will all be factors in filling the void. Aiken is clearly the most physical of the three and is expected to take Reed's blocking role in the run game. Aiken practiced all week and is expected to play after missing last week's game.

Backup C Duke Preston (questionable-ankle) returned to practice Friday and is expected to be available for the game.

COLTS

Saturday Update: The team will still give starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) a chance to play despite not practicing this week. He's expected to warm up a few hours before the game to determine his status.

Friday Update: Rookie RB Joseph Addai (wrist-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

#3 WR Brandon Stokley (knee-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play.

Backup TE Ben Utecht (lower back) was upgraded to probable after practicing Friday expected to play.

Starting ORT Ryan Diem (calf-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup G Ryan Lilja (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting DT Montae Reagor (head) is out for several more weeks with backup DT Anthony McFarland starting for him. Backup DT Darrell Reid (broken finger-questionable) practiced Friday and probably will be able to play.

Starting DE Robert Mathis (knee-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.

Starting MLB Gary Brackett (hamstring strain-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup MLB Rob Morris (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start for Brackett.

"Rob will do fine. We've won a ton of games with Rob Morris playing and he'll do great. He's the least of our worries," head coach Tony Dungy said Friday.

Backup LB Keith O'Neil (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. He's mostly a special teams player. Backup LB Rocky Boiman (concussion) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to play.

Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play.

"What we've talked about is if he's feeling good and ready to go and running well and (secondary coach) Alan (Williams) is satisfied and (director of rehabilitation) Erin (Barill) is satisfied, then he'll go," Dungy said after Friday's practice. "He went through all the walkthroughs, he knows what he's doing. He hasn't had the practice time, but we'll see how he is."

Backup CB/S Marlin Jackson would likely start if he can't play. But if Sanders feels he can play, even without practicing, he'll play.

"That's what I told him. I said if you feel like you felt going to New England, then we want you to play. But I don't want you to play if you're just feeling good," Dungy added. "Hopefully he gets through it and plays and it's a little stronger every week. But we'd like to keep him out rather than having him doing this every week."

Sanders wants to play.

"We're just taking it a day at a time. Right now it's still kind of early to decide whether I'm going to play or not. I really don't know yet. I feel pretty good. I just don't want to beat myself up during the week right now and not be able to play on Sunday."

Backup DB Matt Giordano (calf-questionable) missed practice all week and isn't expected to play.


WASHINGTON REDSKINS (3-5) AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (4-4) 1:00 PM EST

REDSKINS

Saturday Update: Unless he has a setback in pre-game warmups, starting WR Santana Moss (hamstring-probable) will be in the lineup on Sunday. However, with rain forecasted for the game and temperatures in the 50's expected, he'll have to make sure he can get loose before the game.

Friday Update: Starting WR Santana Moss (hamstring) practiced again Friday and was upgraded from questionable to probable. They'll want to make sure he doesn't have a setback before the game before giving him the green light.

"He will work out Sunday morning and make a decision then," head coach Joe Gibbs said following Friday's workout. "He looked good today. He has upped it every day. I talked to him for a while this morning. I think he feels good. I thought he looked fine.

"I felt like this week would not go as well as it did. He did gradually more every day. He upped it every day. We will see how he feels on game day."

Moss, who leads the offense with 28 receptions for 435 yards and three touchdowns, participated fully in Thursday's practice after being limited Wednesday. Moss did not play against Dallas last week. He strained his left hamstring in the Oct. 22 loss at Indianapolis.

#3 WR Antwaan Randle El would start again or would share time with him if needed.

Starting WR Brandon Lloyd (hamstring-probable) returned to practice Friday after sitting out Thursday's practice with a groin injury. He is expected to start.

Elsewhere on the injury front, backup WR David Patten (hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and should be able to play. He was an inactive last week.

Backup TE Christian Fauria (ankle) practiced Friday and was upgraded to probable after missing the previous two days. Fauria was in a walking boot prior to Friday.

"He took pretty much full work. I was surprised that he was able to do that much. He said he wanted to get a good feel for it. He took most of his work. There were a few things in there that he didn't do, but he looked pretty good," Gibbs said.

Starting TE Chris Cooley (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting ORT Jon Jansen (calf-probable) practiced for a second straight day and is expected to start on Sunday.

Starting RCB Carlos Rogers (thumb-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting LCB Shawn Springs was given the day off, Gibbs said.

"We held Shawn today mainly just to give him a day's rest. There is nothing wrong," Gibbs said.

EAGLES

Saturday Update: For the second straight game, the team will have all players on their active roster available to play.

Friday Update:On the health front, the Eagles had full participation in practice this week of every player on their active roster, including starting WR Donte' Stallworth (hamstring) and nickel CB Rod Hood (heel), who missed significant time during the first half of the season.

"They've done a nice job and they look like they are healthy and ready to go," head coach Andy Reid said. "I think most of the guys that were nicked up a little bit, they are feeling better this week and they should be fine."

Stallworth should be back in the starting lineup alongside starting WR Reggie Brown. Stallworth missed four games with a hamstring injury.

The bye week allowed a number of players to heal a variety of bumps and bruises.

Starting RB Brian Westbrook (knee/ankle-probable) is expected to shoulder much of the load in the backfield. Westbrook suffered an ankle injury in the loss to Jacksonville right before the bye week, but it doesn't appear to be limiting him in anyway. He is expected to start. Meanwhile, his sore knee is feeling as good as it has since early in the season. Westbrook ranks 7th in NFL with 901 scrimmage yards (500 rush, 401 rec.).

Starting CB Lito Sheppard (hand/ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start alongside starting CB Sheldon Brown.

Up front, starting DT Mike Patterson (hand-probable) had surgery during the bye week to repair a broken hand he sustained in the Jaguar game.

Meanwhile, Reid would not say whether veteran CB William James (formerlyWill Peterson), added to the roster last week, will suit up Sunday.

"I'll just make that decision," Reid said. "You obviously don't want to put him in a bad situation where he is not comfortable with what is going on around him. He's done a nice job this week and I'll go evaluate the film that he had today and I'll meet with (defensive coordinator) Jim (Johnson) and we'll go from there."

One of five cornerbacks on the roster, James hasn't played in a game since the second week of the '05 season.


GREEN BAY PACKERS (3-5) AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS (4-4) 1:00 PM EST

PACKERS

Saturday Update: Starting WR Greg Jennings (ankle-questionable) is in the same situation he was going into last week's game. He'll warm up a few hours before the game to determine his status. He had a great first half last week (5-69) before re-injuring his ankle.

Friday Update: Starting RB Ahman Green (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup RB Vernand Morency (back-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. #3 RB Noah Herron fills in for him again.

Starting FB Brandon Miree (elbow-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup FB William Henderson starts again for him.

Starting WR Greg Jennings (questionable-ankle) participated in part of Friday's practice. His status will be decided after Sunday's pre-game warmup.

"I just felt it was smart (for Jennings to stop practicing)," head coach Mike McCarthy said after Friday's practice. "I saw what I needed to see. He felt better than when he started, so we're just being smart. He did team stuff; he just didn't do it all."

Starting TE Bubba Franks (wrist-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting OLT Chad Clifton (knee/elbow-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup DT Cullen Jenkins was added to the injury report on Friday as probable due to an ankle injury and missed practice but is expected to play.

"He was sore, so we rested him today," McCarthy said. "But I fully anticipate him going. It was clearly precautionary and came up last minute before practice."

Backup DT Johnny Jolly (ankle-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to be available for the game.

Starting CB Charles Woodson (questionable-knee) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.

Starting S Nick Collins (probable-kidney) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

VIKINGS

Saturday Update: Disappointed WR Troy Williamson owners might see an increase in his production during the second half of the season. He refocused himself towards improving his hands this week and spent a lot of extra time working with the JUGS machine. His hands were called into question after dropping two more passes during last week's game vs. the 49ers.

"That's probably the main thing I've been doing this week," Williamson said. "I've been working with the JUGS, working different angles on catches and stuff like that. ... I pretty much just feel anxious to get back out there and play. You can't do anything about what happened. You just have to be ready to move forward."

Friday Update: Starting RB Chester Taylor (calf) practiced some Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to start.

Starting FB Tony Richardson (broken thumb) and was upgraded to probable and is expected to start.

#3 Marcus Robinson (lower back) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out.

Starting C Matt Birk (neck-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DT Pat Williams (knee-questionable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start. Starting DT Kevin Williams (ankle-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Darrion Scott (ankle) was limited again Friday and remains questionable to play. Backup DE Ray Edwards would start if he can't play.

Starting MLB Napoleon Harris (wrist) was downgraded to out on Friday after not practicing with backup LB Dontarrious Thomas starting again for him again.

Starting CB Fred Smoot's (death in family) status remains up in the air. Head coach Brad Childress said he did not anticipate him returning in time for the team meeting Saturday, since
Smoot's brother's funeral is some time on Saturday. Still, if Smoot can get there some time before the game, they'd like him to start because rookie CB Cedric Griffin is untested. Griffin is an emerging play but I'm sure they'd like to have a veteran to contend with QB Brett Favre.


NEW YORK JETS (4-4) AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (6-2) 1:00 PM EST

JETS

Saturday Update: If backup RB Cedric Houston (knee-questionable) is able to play, look for backup RB Derrick Blaylock to be inactive.

Friday Update: Starting QB Chad Pennington (calf-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup QB Patrick Ramsey (thigh-probable) practiced all week and is expected to be available for the game.

Starting FB B.J. Askew (questionable-foot) was limited again Friday but is still expected to start.

Veteran RB Kevan Barlow (calf-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. Backup RB Cedric Houston (knee-questionable) was limited again Friday but the feeling is he'll be able to play.

Starting WR Laveranues Coles (questionable-calf) saw limited practice time again Friday but is expected to start. Backup WR Justin McCareins (questionable-foot) and backup WR/PR Tim Dwight (questionable-thigh) saw limited practice time again Friday. McCareins's status is considered a game-time decision. Dwight is expected to play.

Starting G Pete Kendall (knee-probable) practiced all week and is expected to start.

Backup C Trey Teague (broken ankle) was placed on IR earlier this week.

Backup OLB Matt Chatham (knee-probable) practiced all week and is expected to play.

Veteran CB David Barrett (questionable-hip) saw limited practice time this week and his status is considered a game-time decision. Starting CB Andre Dyson (ankle-probable) practiced all week and is expected to start.

PATRIOTS

Saturday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable), backup RB Laurence Maroney (ankle-questionable), starting DE Richard Seymour (elbow-questionable), and starting CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist-questionable) are all expected to play in their usual roles.

Friday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and will start.

Rookie RB Laurence Maroney (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting TE Daniel Graham (ankle) practiced Friday but remains questionable to play.

Starting RG Steve Neal (shoulder) practiced Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup OL Billy Yates started the last two games in his place. Backup OL Russ Hochstein (knee) practiced again Friday but remains questionable to play.

Starting DEs Richard Seymour (elbow-questionable) Ty Warren (wrist-questionable) practiced again Friday and are expected to start.

Starting CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder-out) should miss at least the next four games. Backup CB Chad Scott replaced him during last week's. Starting FS Eugene Wilson (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday. If he can play, they can move backup S Artrell Hawkins into Harrison's spot.


SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (3-5) AT DETROIT LIONS (2-6) 1:00 PM EST

49ERS

Saturday Update: Starting TE Vernon Davis (leg-doubtful) should be able to play in about two weeks and could start practicing next week.

Friday Update: Starting TE Vernon Davis (leg-doubtful) has been running but missed practice all week and isn't expected to play.. Look for backup TE Eric Johnson to start again for him.

On defense, backup S Chad Williams (quadriceps-probable) practiced again Friday and should be available this weekend after missing last week's game.

Starting CB Walt Harris (hip) practiced Friday and was upgraded from questionable to probable. Look for him to start Sunday. Harris suffered a hip contusion in the win over Minnesota. Nickel CB Sammy Davis would start if needed.

LIONS

Saturday Update: Journeyman WR Kevin Kasper has a good shot to show the coaches what he has on Sunday. They plan to work him in the #3 role against the 49ers.

Friday Update: Starting DT Shaun Cody (dislocated toe-questionable) didn't do any team drills this week, but got in some individual work, although it's still likely he'll miss at least another game. He's missed the last three contests and was projected to be sidelined 4-6 weeks at the time of his injury.

"We're going to wait until Sunday, see how he's doing," said head coach Rod Marinelli of Cody. "I think he's average right now, but we'll see."

Also up front, the other starting tackle, Shaun Rogers, remains under suspension until Thanksgiving. Backup DT Marcus Bell now starts alongside starting DE Cory Redding, who has moved inside. With Redding inside, backup DE Kalimba Edwards starts for Redding.

Edwards' production level (two sacks) has been questioned after he received a lucrative long-term contract in the off-season.

"I feel really good about him," said Marinelli. "I call him close, but no cigars. He's been draping off that guy a few times, so we need him to play big and I believe he's going to do that."

Rogers had his knee scoped after being suspended, so when he returns to the team on Nov. 20, he'll be evaluated. His status is unknown until then and the Lions play three days later on Thanksgiving Day.

Backups OL Blaine Saipaia (chest-questionable) and FB Sean McHugh (knee-questionable) both missed practice each day this week. McHugh made his first career start last week for starting FB Cory Schlesinger (hamstring), who is back practicing at full-speed this week and should be in the lineup Sunday.

Starting ORT Rex Tucker (knee) was removed from the injury report on Friday when he re-joined practice. He was added as probable Thursday when he rested his knee. He practiced fully Wednesday and had missed most of the season until returning to the starting lineup last week. Veteran OL Barry Stokes, who is now starting at RG for Damien Woody (foot-IR), started predominantly for Tucker while he was out.


DENVER BRONCOS (6-2) AT OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-6) 4:05 PM EST

BRONCOS

Saturday Update: All indications are that starting RB Tatum Bell (turf-toes-probable) will be able to play but his role for the game is unclear. While his condition has improved this week, keep in mind he took himself out of the game two weeks ago although he practiced then all week.

Friday Update: Starting RB Tatum Bell (turf toes) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable and the feeling is that he'll be able to play this week. He was listed as probable last week but didn't play but that actually helped him as his feet are feeling better this week. The plan is to work him out before Sunday's game to determine his final status. Rookie RB Mike Bell, whether Tatum Bell plays or not, should receive at least half of the carries. #3 RB Cedric Cobbs (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game. If Tatum Bell is active for the game, they'll likely have Cobbs inactive with backup FB Cecil Sapp acting as the third RB.

Starting FB Kyle Johnson (ankle) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting WR Rod Smith (shoulder separation) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting DT Gerard Warren (toe-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Ebenezer Ekuban (thigh) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Look for backup DE John Engleberger to start for him. DE Patrick Chukwurah (hamstring-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play.

Starting WLB Ian Gold (hamstring) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and isn't expected to play. Backup LB Nate Webster will likely start for him.

Starting MLB Al Wilson (concussion) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting CB Darrent Williams (shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting FS John Lynch (concussion) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Starting SS Nick Ferguson (concussion) practiced again Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable.

Backup S Sam Brandon (knee) will miss the rest of the season.

RAIDERS

Saturday Update: #2 RB Justin Fargas (shoulder-probable) should see more carries than he has of late in back of starting RB LaMont Jordan (back-probable).

Friday Update: Starting QB Aaron Brooks (right shoulder-questionable) could dress for the game but backup QB Andrew Walter remains the starter.

Starting RB LaMont Jordan (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup RB Justin Fargas (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting FB Zack Crockett (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Starting G Barry Sims (abdomen-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup OL Corey Hulsey starting again for him.

Starting OLT Robert Gallery (groin) was added to the injury report as probable on Friday but is still expected to start.

Starting SS Michael Huff (concussion-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.


ST. LOUIS RAMS (4-4) AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (5-3) 4:15 PM EST

RAMS

Saturday Update: Starting WR Torry Holt had three TD catches against the Seahawks when these teams faced each other earlier this season.

Friday Update: Starting WLB Pisa Tinoisamoa (hand-questionable) has missed two games with a broken hand but he practiced all week and will return to the starting lineup.

“Pisa looks fine,” said head coach Scott Linehan after Friday's practice. “I think there’ll be no reason he won’t start based on all week. We got everything in and he looks just fine. Unless something changes between now and then, or in pregame warm-up or something like that, he’ll probably start the game. (Backup RB) Kay-Jay Harris will probably be active this week just so we have a third back. So he’ll be active on teams. We haven’t made a decision between (backup DE Tony) Bryant and (backup DE Brandon) Green. We’ll make that decision as a staff prior to Sunday. We’re still evaluating some of our personnel groups defensively. Both of them had a good week in practice though. All the other guys on the injury report were fine today, so they won’t be an issue.”

Backup S Jerome Carter (elbow), backup LB Isaiah Kacyvenski (hip) and starting DE Leonard Little (knee) all practiced again Friday and are listed as probable and will be available in their normal roles.

SEAHAWKS

Saturday Update: Starting QB Matt Hasselbeck did some limited throwing on Friday.

“I think he did ok. To be honest, I wasn’t watching him all that much; I knew what he was going to do. He was just going to throw seven-on-seven and I think for the first time out of the chute he did fine. We’re thinking he could play next week, so this is a good start. The test will be how he feels tomorrow, I suppose," head coach Mike Holmgren said.

Hasselbeck wants to play next week.

“Yeah, I would love that. I don’t know if that will happen, that would be great though. The next real practice for me would be potentially on Wednesday and so I am going to do everything I can between now and then to show that I am healthy enough and if I am healthy enough, I’m sure they will let me go. If I am not, I know they won’t. I have to do my part over the weekend," Hasselbeck said after his workout on Friday.

Starting RB Shaun Alexander (foot-doubtful) is expected to get more tests taken on his broken foot on Monday. Alexander was kept out of practice Friday after working out lightly on Thursday.

"They decided not to do that (have him practice). He worked a little bit yesterday and so they rested him today. He went through some stuff yesterday, ran cones, cut, did some of those things, and came out of it ok, so we have our fingers crossed maybe we will get them both back next week," the head coach said after Friday's practice.

Backup WR Bobby Engram (illness-questionable) won't play but did more practicing this week. However, when he'll be able to play remains up in the air.

“That is, I don’t know, I really don’t know. They changed his medications and it knocked him for a little bit of a loop yesterday, but apparently that is normal. He just had no energy. But now he bounced back today and he is giving it all he’s got. We will get him back, I just can’t tell you when," Holmgren said.

The club placed backup DT Marcus Tubbs (knee) on IR on Saturday and signed LB Lance Laury off of the practice squad.

Starting SS Jordan Babineaux (shoulder-questionable) should be able to start.

If not, former starting SS Michael Boulware would fill in.

“Well I told Michael when we made the decision to make the change, I said, ‘listen, I know you’re disappointed, but you have been in this a little while now and you know you might be right back in there, prepare yourself for that day.’ Yesterday I talked to him in the locker room; I said what was our conversation a couple weeks ago? And he repeated it and I said ok, now here we go, get back in there and play like I know you can play. I am hopeful that he does that," Holmgren said.

Friday Update: Starting QB Matt Hasselbeck (knee-doubtful) did some limited work Friday (7-on-7) but won't play but he's on target for playing next week.

"We're thinking he can play next week. So this is a good start. The test for him will be how he feels tomorrow," head coach Mike Holmgren said after Friday's practice.

Backup QB Seneca Wallace will continue to start for him.

Starting RB Shaun Alexander (foot-doubtful) did some light running and cutting on Thursday and rested on Friday. Holmgren said Alexander came out of Thursday's brief workout well. Backup RB Maurice Morris continues to fill in.

Backup FB Josh Parry (foot) is out.

#3 WR Bobby Engram (illness-questionable) practiced some Friday but will be held out of Sunday's game. While there was some optimism that he would be ready to play next week, Holmgren couldn't say for sure Friday when exactly Engram will be able to play. Backup WR D.J. Hackett is filling in. #5 WRNate Burleson (foot-questionable) practiced Friday but his status will be decided on Sunday.

Starting ORT Sean Locklear (ankle-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and won't be able to play with backup OL Tom Ashworth filling in again.

Starting C Robbie Tobeck (elbow-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup DT Marcus Tubbs (knee) is out.

Backup WLB D.D. Lewis (toe) is out.

Starting SS Jordan Babineaux (shoulder) was limited Friday and his status will be decided on Sunday. Former starting SS Michael Boulware would start if needed.


DALLAS COWBOYS (4-4) AT ARIZONA CARDINALS (1-7) 4:15 PM EST

COWBOYS

Saturday Update: Starting WRTerry Glenn (quadriceps-probable) did not travel with the team Saturday to Arizona. As noted earlier this week, head coach Bill Parcells likes to keep #3 WR Patrick Crayton in that role so rookie WR Sam Hurd could start for Glenn. Still, we expect Crayton to see more snaps than Hurd in the game.

Veteran FS Marcus Coleman was released on Saturday after a DWI charge. This means FS Keith Davis will remain the starter with rookie FS Pat Watkins backing him up.

Friday Update: Starting WR Terry Glenn (quadriceps) pulled himself out of practice on Friday. We're told Glenn is having problems with the lining of his knee not a bone on bone problem as others suggest. The team is calling his status a game-time decision. If Glenn can't play, rookie WR Sam Hurd would likely open up the game as the starter but look for #3 WR Patrick Crayton to rotate with him.

Hurd was signed as an undrafted free agent and has good size but questionable hands. Crayton, while known as a possession receiver, is excellent with running after the catch and is headed for career highs this season in catches, yards, and TDs.

CARDINALS

Saturday Update: Starting SLB Karlos Dansby (hip) practiced all week and isn't listed on the injury report and is set to start.

Friday Update: Starting WR Larry Fitzgerald (hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. The coaching staff will monitor him through out the game to see how he feels but the don't want to over work him in his first game back. He still should see more than half of the offensive snaps though.

#4 WR/PR Troy Walters (hand/wrist-probable) was limited in practice the last two days but is expected to play. Backup WR Bryant Johnson backs him up as a punt returner.

Starting FB Obafemi Ayanbadejo (fibula-doubtful) did limited work Friday but isn't expected to play. Backup FB A.J. Schable is expected to start for him.


NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (6-2) AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS (2-6) 4:15 PM EST

SAINTS

Saturday Update: Starting WR Joe Horn (groin-doubtful) isn't expected to play for the second straight game so look for backup WR Devery Henderson to replace him again.

Starting CB Fred Thomas (hamstring-questionable) is more to the doubtful side after not practicing this week. Look for nickel CB Jason Craft to start for him.

Friday Update:Rookie RB Reggie Bush (left ankle) is listed as probable, stemming from his aggravation of his sprained left ankle on Oct. 29. He practiced most of last week and was unhindered in the win over Tampa and also practiced fully this week.

Starting WR Joe Horn (groin) missed practice Wednesday, was able to practice Thursday, but was very limited on Friday and was downgraded to doubtful making it unlikely that he'll be able to play for the second straight week. Look for #3 WR Devery Henderson to fill in again for him with #3 WR Terrance Copper seeing a few snaps as well in Horn's place.

Starting OLT Jammal Brown (sprained left ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start..

Rookie OL Zach Strief (dislocated right ring finger-probable) made his first NFL appearance in starting for Brown. He dislocated his right ring finger two weeks ago but isn't listed this week.

Starting CB Fred Thomas (hamstring-questionable) missed practice all week. He spent two days last week listed as questionable as well but practiced each day last week. His status is considered a game day decision. Backup CB Jason Craft (concussion) is Thomas' backup. He sustained a concussion vs. Tampa Bay just before halftime and did not return but practiced fully this week and isn't listed on the injury report.

Backup TE Nate Lawrie (back-questionable) also missed practice each day this week and likely will miss his second straight game. He had moved up a place in the TE rotation since starting TE Ernie Conwell (right knee-out) was injured Oct. 15 vs. Philadelphia. Conwell underwent surgery three days later to repair a medial meniscus tear and was slated to miss 4-6 weeks. Backup TE Mark Campbell starts for him.

STEELERS

Saturday Update: The team signed LB Ron Stanley from the practice squad on Saturday. #3 QBBrian St. Pierre was released in order to make room for Stanley on the 53-man roster.

Friday Update: Starting ILB Larry Foote (ribs), backup RB Najeh Davenport (knee), starting OLB Clark Haggans (groin), backup WR Sean Morey (toe), starting SS Troy Polamalu (foot), starting CB Deshea Townsend (quadriceps) all are listed as probable and practiced again on Friday and are expected to be available in their normal roles for Sunday.

Starting C Jeff Hartings (knee) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out. Backup C Chukky Okobi starts for him again.

Starting ILB James Farrior (groin) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start and was upgraded to probable. Backup ILB Rian Wallace would likely start if needed. Backup ILB Clint Kriewaldt (back) was downgraded to out from doubtful.

Backup OLB James Harrison (ankle) remains out.


CHICAGO BEARS (7-1) AT NEW YORK GIANTS (6-2) 8:15 PM EST

BEARS

Saturday Update: Starting WR Bernard Berrian (ribs-questionable) probably won't play. While it's not known who will start for him, a receiver to keep an eye on is Mark Bradley who was a starter last season before suffering a torn ACL. The team was very high on him before he

We're told starting MLB Brian Urlacher (toe-questionable) will start on Sunday evening unless something happens during pre-game warmups.

Friday Update: The injury news has gotten more positive as the week progressed at Halas Hall. Starting MLB Brian Urlacher (sprained left big toe-questionable) practiced Friday for the first time this week and appears on track to start Sunday night if no additional setbacks occur. Head coach Lovie Smith remained as non-committal Friday as he's been throughout the week.

"Does that ensure he's a go. No, it just means he practiced today. So I can stay right in the middle of the pack, he was OK today."

If Urlacher can't play, or needs to be spelled, it's likely the team would move starting SLB Hunter Hillenmeyer into the middle and backup LB Rod Wilson could go in at strong-side.

Starting WR/KR Bernard Berrian (bruised ribs) was confined to mostly running on Friday, which he couldn't do at the beginning of the practice week, and he was upgraded from doubtful to questionable. Though Friday's session didn't include contact, it's a positive sign that Berrian was upgraded and that he has reported less pain and discomfort each day this week, but is still a long shot to be active.

"Improvement is being made, but it would take a lot for him to play," said Smith.

On Monday it was estimated that Berrian could miss up to a month, but his rapid recovery has made an earlier return seem possible.

His presence is a key to the Bears' vertical passing game that has been so successful this year.

If Berrian can't play, #3 WR Rashied Davis would see time in Berrian's spot along with backup WRs Mark Bradley and Justin Gage. There's been no indication yet who exactly would start if Berrian can't play.

Starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (knee) was listed as probable Wednesday, but was removed from the injury report Thursday after practicing for a second straight day and is expected to start. He also practiced fully Friday.

Dime back Dante Wesley (bruised left knee and thigh) didn't practice this week and officially remains questionable to play..

Backup FS Chris Harris (quadriceps) has missed the last five games, but should be available this week. He re-joined practice last Friday.

"It's been very frustrating not to get out there on the field, especially with the team having the success and not actually really being able to be a part of it," said Harris. "I have to try to stay within myself and try not to do too much. But I'm excited to get back on the field and hope that my play will show it."

GIANTS

Saturday Update: Unless starting WR Plaxico Burress's (back spasms-questionable) locks up before the game, he'll be in the starting lineup on Sunday night.

#3 WR Tim Carter started for Burress last week and how he's expected to start for WR Amani Toomer who was placed on IR Saturday.

Carter had the most impressive pre-season of any player on their roster. He's impressed his head coach so far this year.

"He’s continued to do that, that’s for sure. He adds that extra dimension. It was interesting – He always has that big-play potential, and of course that’s something that’s very important on the eve of this game," Tom Coughlin said after Friday's practice.

#4 WR David Tryee moves up to the #3 role for the time being.

Friday Update:Starting FB Jim Finn (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup WR Sinorice Moss (quadriceps-questionable) practiced again Friday.

"He’s working at it, he’s working at it (returning to playing). He practiced two days this week. He’s improved each time he’s practiced," head coach Tom Coughlin said after Friday's practice.

Starting WR Plaxico Burress (back spasms-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start unless he has a setback before the game. He was moving well during and after practice.

Starting WR Amani Toomer (knee) hasn't been placed on IR yet but will miss the rest of the season with #3 WR Tim Carter expected to start for him.

Defensively, starting DE Michael Strahan (foot) is out two to eight weeks although he's moving around well. Since backup DE Justin Tuck (foot-questionable) missed practice all week and likely won't play, it's likely that backup DE Adrian Awasom will make his first pro start. He was signed off of the practice squad recently. Starting DE Osi Umenyiora (hip flexor-doubtful) missed practice all week so rookie DE Mathias Kiwanuka makes his third start in place of Umenyiora.

Starting SLB Carlos Emmons (groin-questionable) returned to practice Friday and should be able to start. Backup SLB Reggie Torbor worked in his spot previously.

Starting WLB Brandon Short (quadriceps-questionable) missed his third straight practice on Friday and isn't expected to play. Rookie WLB Gerris Wilkinson should start again for him.

Starting CB Sam Madison (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.


Monday

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (2-6) AT CAROLINA PANTHERS (4-4) 8:35 PM EST

BUCCANEERS

Saturday Update: Starting DT Ellis Wyms (ankle-questionable), starting DE Simeon Rice (shoulder-questionable) and starting MLB Shelton Quarles (knee-questionable) all missed practice for a third straight day on Saturday.

The banged-up defensive starters have been able to play through their injuries, and they'll hope to do the same Monday night against Carolina.

Just in case, the reserves are ready.

"Guys would have to step up and play," head coach Jon Gruden said.

Backup MLB Barrett Ruud would step in for Quarles, backup DT Jon Bradley would likely replace Wyms, and backup DE Dewayne White would start for Rice.

Starting LCB Juran Bolden (hip-questionable) returned to work Saturday after missing the previous two days. He is expected to start.

Backup RB/KR Michael Pittman (shoulder-questionable) practiced for a second straight day and should be able to play Monday night.

Backup OT Donald Penn was added to the report as questionable. Penn sustained a foot injury during practice.

One personnel note, Gruden indicated Saturday that rookie WR Maurice Stovall will likely be active for just the second time this season.

"He's doing good," said Gruden of Stovall. "He's going to be active, I think, Monday night. He hurt his back and he's been out for a few weeks but I think he's ready to go. We'll throw him in there a little bit and see how he likes this league."

Friday Update: Backup RB/KR Michael Pittman (shoulder-questionable) returned to practice Friday after missing Thursday's workout.

"He's still a little bit questionable for the game," head coach Jon Gruden said after Friday's practice.

Starting DT Ellis Wyms (ankle-questionable), starting DE Simeon Rice (shoulder-questionable), starting MLB Shelton Quarles (knee-questionable), and starting LCB Juran Bolden (hip-questionable) all missed practice for a second straight day.

All four have been able to play through their injuries. Fortunately, the team still has one more practice left.

Said Gruden when asked about Rice's condition: "He's struggling with this injury, but he's finding a way to play. We hoped to get him on the practice field, but he's a sore man."

Backup DT Jon Bradley worked in place of Wyms in practice and is available if needed. Backup DE Dewayne White is an option at end. Backup LB Barrett Ruud is the backup to Quarles.

PANTHERS

Saturday Update: Now that his injured ankle has healed, rookie RB DeAngelo Williams could return kicks on Monday night.

Starting CB Ken Lucas's (groin-questionable) status is considered a game-time decision.

Friday Update: Former starting C Justin Hartwig (groin-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play.

Backup DT Jordan Carstens (chest) is out for several weeks.

Starting CB Ken Lucas (groin-questionable) practiced again Friday and should be able to play but rookie CB Richard Marshall may start for him since Lucas isn't 100 percent.


If there is going to be a shake up in the current selection order of the 2007 draft it may come in Detroit where the Lions, which would have the second pick were the draft held today, are hosting the very inconsistent 3-5 San Francisco 49ers. All of the other teams currently sitting on top 10 picks, though, will be playing teams at .500 or better. Arizona, which would have the first pick overall if the draft were held today, hosts Dallas in a late afternoon. And the Cowboys are likely to be in a testy mood after last week’s bizarre lose in Washington which dropped the Cowboys to 4-4. Elsewhere, Miami, which would be in a coin-flip with Cleveland and Houston for the 3rd thru 5th picks, will host Kansas City, while the Browns will be in Atlanta and the Texans at Jacksonville. Meanwhile, Oakland (#6) will host Denver and Pittsburgh (#7) hosts New Orleans, while Tennessee (#9) will be hosting Baltimore in long-time Titans’ QB Steve McNair’s return to Tennessee. And for the second week in a row, the Monday night game will have a flavor as 2-6 Tampa Bay, which would have the 8th pick if the draft were held today will be at division-rival Carolina......

Michigan State QB Drew Stanton, one of the top 2-3 QB prospects for the 2007 draft, left Saturday's game against Minnesota because of dizziness. Playing in his last home contest, Stanton left the game after being sacked by the Gophers. Meanwhile, another Big 10 senior QB, John Stocco of Wisconsin, did not play yesterday in the Badgers’ win over Iowa. Stocco, a marginal prospect for the upcoming draft, had started 35 straight games, but sat out with a shoulder injury suffered against Penn State last week......