WEEK 16

After Oakland lost 20-9 to Kansas City last evening, the "pressure" will be back on Detroit later this afternoon as the race to see which of the two teams ends up with the #1 pick at the 2007 draft goes down to the wire. It won't be easy for the Lions today though as Detroit, which came into the weekend sitting on the first pick overall, has a home date with 12-2 Chicago. And while there likely won’t be much change to the very top of the 2007 draft board as a result of this weekend’s action, there will be some reshuffling among other potential top 10 picks as a number of teams with picks 3 thru 10 play each other. Tampa Bay, for example, which would pick 3rd if the draft were held today, will be at #6 Cleveland, while #4 Arizona will be at #10 San Francisco and #7 Washington is at #8 St. Louis. We’ll have the full, updated 2007 draft selection order with just a week to go after Monday’s Christmas Day doubleheader.....

Week Sixteen Team Reports

Saturday December 23, 2006


Sunday

TENNESSEE TITANS (7-7) AT BUFFALO BILLS (7-7) 1:00 PM EST

TITANS

Saturday Update: The Titans make their first trip to Buffalo since 2000 and only P Craig Hentrichand starting G Benji Olson remain from that team on the current roster.

The Bills have given up just 13 points in their last two games and we feel the Titan passing game will struggle against them tomorrow.

The Bills have struggled to stop the run all year and they face a tough task tomorrow trying to stop a scorned running back. The Bills basically gave up on RB Travis Henry (ankle-questionable) when they drafted RB Willis McGahee and Henry is poised to crack the 1,000-yard rushing mark against his former team. Henry has plenty of incentive as he's in the midst of trying to get a new deal from his team.

Friday Update: Starting RB Travis Henry (ankle-questionable) didn't practice Wednesday, increased his workload Thursday and rested for most of Friday's session, but is expected to start against his former team. Rookie RB LenDale White is Henry's backup and former starter Chris Brown has been active the last two weeks when Henry and White have both missed some practice time.

Starting WR Drew Bennett (knee-questionable) was held out of practice Wednesday and Thursday but took part Friday and is expected to start.

"Drew will be fine," said head coach Jeff Fisher said after Friday's practice. "Drew worked himself back into practice today."

Starting TE Bo Scaife (ankle) missed practice Friday for the third straight day and remains questionable to play. Backup TE Ben Hartsock started for him last week.

"Bo's working good inside," said Fisher. "We'll warm Bo up before kickoff and see how he is."

Starting CB Reynaldo Hill (ankle-questionable) practiced fully Friday after missing a portion of Thursday workout when he had his ankle stepped on. He's expected to start but was added to the injury report since he sat out a portion of practice Thursday.

Starting MLB Peter Sirmon (knee-questionable) was limited this week but fully participated Friday and is still expected to start. Fourth-round pick Stephen Tulloch filled in during practice and last Sunday after Sirmon went down.

Starting DE Travis LaBoy (knee) is also listed as questionable. He missed parts of Wednesday and Thursday's workouts but got a full day of work in on Friday.

Also listed as questionable are backup LBs Ken Amato (neck) and Colby Bockwoldt (shoulder), P Craig Hentrich (back), and backup TE Cooper Wallace (thigh). Wallace, Amato, and Bockwoldt practiced fully this week and Hentrich rested Thursday and Friday but will still punt Sunday.

BILLS

Saturday Update: Over his last five games, starting QB J.P. Losman has 10 TD passes and 4 INTs. The one noticeable thing about his play over that span has been his accuracy on deep to intermediate passes. Now if they can just get him some help at receiver for next season.

Friday Update: #3 QB Craig Nall (illness-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to be available Sunday if needed.

Starting FB Daimon Shelton (questionable-head) missed practice Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup TE Brad Cieslak will fill in.

Starting WR Peerless Price (questionable-thigh) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting SLB Takeo Spikes (questionable-ankle) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup LB John DiGiorgio (questionable-ankle) practiced all week and should be available for special teams duty Sunday.


NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (9-5) AT NEW YORK GIANTS (7-7) 1:00 PM EST

SAINTS

Saturday Update: The Giant pass defense has fallen to 28th in the NFL and they'll be looking to avoid their 4th straight home loss. Tough matchup for the Giants as New Orleans has the league's top passing offense. The Saints should throw the ball well again especially with very mild temperatures expected at the Meadowlands.

If the Saints win their last two games they'll earn a first-round bye which would be huge because they'd be in a position to play a home playoff game and then have the opportunity to play for the right to go to the Super Bowl.

Friday Update: #2 QB Jamie Martin (back) was removed from the injury report Friday and will be available if needed on Sunday. Martin was initially listed as probable this week after resting Wednesday.

Starting WR Joe Horn (groin-doubtful) was downgraded Friday from questionable and isn't expected to play. Horn has did light running this week but didn't take part in any on-field drills. Backup WR Terrance Copper is expected to start with #3 WR Devery Henderson splitting time with him.

Horn, who tried playing Dec. 3 but came out early in the game, has been inactive the last two weeks but is confident he'll be available for the playoffs. He also missed the first two games of November with a strained groin but started in the next three contests after that span.

Starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-questionable) practiced Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday and should be able to start.

Starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-doubtful) was also downgraded from questionable on Friday. He still hasn't practiced since getting hurt two weeks ago and backup S Steve Gleason will likely start for him again Sunday.

GIANTS

Saturday Update: It's kind of fitting that starting RB Tiki Barber will play his last home game against the coach who helped make him an every down back. Sean Payton, was calling the plays as the Giant offensive coordinator when Barber became the Giants full-time back in 2000 and he helped devise the gameplans, along with Jim Fassel, that helped make Barber a star. Tomorrow, Payton will try to stop the monster he helped create.

Barber is the Giants' all-time leading rusher. He's rushed 1,140 times for 5,318 yards and 30 touchdowns. He's also caught 285 passes for 2,528 yards and seven touchdowns, and has returned 84 kickoffs and punts.

Friday Update: #2 RB Brandon Jacobs (ankle-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to play.

Starting G Chris Snee (illness-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Starting OLT Luke Petitgout (fibula) remains out with backup OT Bob Whitfield starting again for him.

The Giants got good news Friday when starting C Shaun O'Hara returned to practice for the first time since injuring his ankle two weeks ago.

"He did all right," head coach Tom Coughlin said. "I'm sure he was out there trying to test it out and find out how he felt. I think he did okay and we'll see when he comes in here and gets treatment again, and then tomorrow."

O'Hara was more optimistic than his head coach was.

"With me practicing today, our goal was to get ready for Sunday," O'Hara said. "That's how I'm preparing. Obviously, it's the head coach's call, but I feel comfortable with everything that's gone on."

Backup OL Rich Seubert (shin-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and won't play. Backup OL Grey Ruegamer would start for O'Hara if needed.

Starting DE Michael Strahan (foot-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting CB Corey Webster (toe-questionable) practiced again Thursday but may not start. Either he or backup CB R.W. McQuarters will start.


CAROLINA PANTHERS (6-8) AT ATLANTA FALCONS (7-7) 1:00 PM EST

PANTHERS

Saturday Update: Starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-questionable) will miss his third straight game with a sprained thumb and backup QB Chris Weinke will start again. Here's a scary stat. Weinke has lost 18 straight starts. If the game gets out of hand, they could get a look at rookie QB Brett Basanez.

Head coach John Fox spent the week trying to defend offensive coordinator Dan Henning. That's tough to do when your offense has scored the second fewest points in the NFC this year. We should mention that the team lost three starters on the offensive line (LT Travelle Wharton, LG Mike Wahle, and C Justin Hartwig) along the way.

Friday Update: Starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-questionable) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and won't likely dress for the game. Backup QB Chris Weinke (chest-probable) practiced again Friday and will start for him.

Backup RB Nick Goings (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

#3 WR Drew Carter (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and won't be able to play. Rookie WR Taye Biddle (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and should be able to play.

Starting TE Kris Mangum (hip-questionable) was able to practice Friday but his status remains a game day decision. Backup TE Michael Gaines would start again if needed.

Dime CB Dion Byrum (thigh-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and will be inactive Sunday.

FALCONS

Saturday Update: Starting DE John Abraham (thumb) is expected to try to give it a go tomorrow. He's never been one to play hurt so we'll see how long he lasts if he does indeed play. He was upgraded to probable after Friday's practice.

There was some good debate this week about whether or not starting QB Michael Vick should have gone to the Pro Bowl ahead of QB Tony Romo. In Vick's defense, his wide receivers must have dropped five TD passes this year but then again so has WR Terrell Owens.

Friday Update: Starting QB Michael Vick (groin-probable) took his usual allotment of snaps Friday and is expected to start Sunday. Backup QB Matt Schaub took most of the first-team reps Wednesday, but Vick increased his workload as the week progressed.

Starting DE John Abraham (thumb) remains questionable but he practiced Friday for the first time this week and will play Sunday with a cast. He tore ligaments in his left thumb late in Saturday night's first half but was able to play after halftime and had a pin surgically implanted in the thumb Monday.

Former starting CB Jason Webster (torn groin muscle) was upgraded Friday from questionable to probable after practicing for a third straight day. He suffered his injury almost two months ago and it's yet to be seen whether Webster is fit enough to play in game-action. Regardless of his status, rookie CB Jimmy Williams and CB/KR/PR Allen Rossum will continue to log significant time, with the taller, more physical Williams likely starting to match up with Panther WR Keyshawn Johnson.

Six other starters remain listed probable, including starting RB Warrick Dunn (left calf), DT Grady Jackson (knee), CB DeAngelo Hall (left knee), MLB Ed Hartwell (knee), DT Rod Coleman (knee), and ORT Todd Weiner (knee). All are expected to be available for the game in their normal roles.

Dunn, who returned fully to practice Thursday and Friday after resting Wednesday, was questionable last week with his injury, suffered Dec. 10, but he played most of the game vs. the Cowboys and had 18 carries for 56 yards. Jackson, Hartwell, Coleman, and Weiner have sat out on Wednesday in many of the past weeks and all practiced Thursday and Friday. Hall didn't practice much last week, but practiced each day this week and will start.

Also listed as probable are backup DT Jonathan Babineaux (knee) rookie RBJerious Norwood (right knee).

Babineaux rested Wednesday but participated fully the past two days while Norwood was back fully in practice this week. He was inactive Saturday night when it was deemed that he was still too stiff in pre-game warm-ups to be effective, but he is improved this week and should see action.

Not listed on the injury report is backup FB Fred McCrary, who disclosed this week that he has been playing for several weeks with torn cartilage in his knee. The veteran isn't featured as a runner or pass catcher but is a physical lead blocker.


WASHINGTON REDSKINS (5-9) AT ST. LOUIS RAMS (6-8) 1:00 PM EST

REDSKINS

Saturday Update: In the midst of a bad season, the team has found a good story with RB Ladell Betts who jus needs 67 yards for the first 1,000 yard season of his career.

“We don’t talk a lot about that. I know it is important to Ladell. It would be important for any back. It is a major deal particularly seeing how he got it. He got 1,000 yards alternating carries at the start of the year and now he has gotten hot at the end of the year. When we were talking about trying to get him resigned he and I would talk about the football end of it and he brought that up. He said he was excited about having the opportunity to do it," head coach Joe Gibbs said.

The Rams have the league's 31st rated run defense and there's no reason why Betts shouldn't run all over them tomorrow. Tomorrow's game in St. Louis is being blacked out. Fans better be careful that Georgia doesn't move the team back to Los Angeles!

Former Ram S Adam Archuleta is looking forward to returning to St. Louis but how much action he actually sees against his former team is still uncertain. Since being replaced as a starter on defense Archuleta hasn't seen any time on defense in four weeks. That's not what the Redskins were hoping for when they signed him away from the Rams by offering him a $30 million contract this year. Brilliant! Every one knows that he was terrible in coverage for the Rams yet Washington seemed to ignore that.

Friday Update: Starting OLT Chris Samuels (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start Sunday against the Rams. Samuels had taken Wednesday off to rest his knee.

Starting ORT Jon Jansen (calf) practiced again Friday and is expected to be back in the lineup after missing the Saints game last weekend. Jansen practiced Thursday for the first time since Dec. 8 and was upgraded from questionable to probable for Sunday.

Starting C Casey Rabach (hand-probable) practiced for a second straight day and is expected to start. Rabach continues to play through a broken left hand, his non-snapping hand. He did not re-aggravate the injury during the Saints game.

On defense, starting SLB Marcus Washington (knee) was downgraded to out on Friday after missing practice for a third consecutive day. He hasn't been able to practice due to swelling in a knee he bruised late in last Sunday's game at New Orleans.

Head coach Joe Gibbs says the medical team is considering its options with regard to Washington's health, especially with just one game remaining after this weekend. IR could certainly be an option.

"The guys are taking a real long hard look at that. We will see what happens. We will let the medical team continue to work on what is best for him. He still has swelling in it," Gibbs said.

Backup OLB Jeff Posey is expected to start in place of Washington. However, the team could shift starting WLB Warrick Holdman to the strong side and give rookie LB Rocky McIntosh extended playing time. McIntosh saw action at weak-side during last Sunday's game.

Washington has missed just one game with an injury in his seven seasons and Gibbs is concerned about the impact of his absence.

"What concerns me is the energy he brings to it. A lot of our players play off of Marcus' excitement. We are going to play our first game without him. It is a big deal for us. We will have to have some guys step up and really play well and supply some of the energy and enthusiasm that he does," Gibbs said.

Starting MLB Lemar Marshall (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. He was held out Wednesday to rest an ailing knee injury.

RAMS

Saturday Update: Look for the team to address the interior of their offensive line next season with two new starters.

G Adam Timmerman turns 36 this August and C Andy McCollum in June.

Friday Update: #2 RB Stephen Davis (hand) practiced again Friday and was removed from injury report and will play.

Starting FB Paul Smith (neck) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out. Backup FB Madison Hedgecock starts for him.

Starting WR Torry Holt (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting ORT Alex Barron (toe) was removed from the injury report Friday and will start.

Veteran G Adam Timmerman (ribs-questionable) practiced again Friday and if he plays, it will be as a backup.

"My inclination is, just based on the reps, is to leave it the way we had it, but have him available this game as opposed to not," said head coach Scott Linehan after Friday's practice.

Brett Romberg will start again at center with Richie Incognito (toe-probable) starting at G.

P Matt Turk (neck) was removed from the injury report Friday and will start.

Starting DE Victor Adeyanju (forearm) practiced Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup DE Brandon Green has been starting for him.

"Victor looks real promising. Good chance he'll be available. I think we'll probably make that decision today. (Backup S) Jerome Carter (ankle-questionable) actually looked better today than he did on Wednesday; actually yesterday and today had good days, so he'll be available as well," the head coach said.

Starting WLB Will Witherspoon (knee-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.


INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (11-3) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (4-10) 1:00 PM EST

COLTS

Saturday Update: As of Saturday evening, the team plans for rookie RB Joseph Addai (ankle-questionable) to play but they didn't upgrade his status.

The team made several changes to their injury report on Saturday.

Backup TE Bryan Fletcher (quadriceps) was upgraded from questionable to probable.

Backup DT Darrell Reid (hand) was upgraded from questionable to probable.

Backup SLB Gilbert Gardner (knee) was upgraded from questionable to probable.

Starting SS Antoine Bethea (shoulder) was upgraded from questionable to probable.

Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee) was downgraded from questionable to out.

Backup DB Marlin Jackson (shoulder) was upgraded from questionable to probable.

Friday Update: Rookie RB Joseph Addai (low ankle sprain-questionable) returned to practice Friday after his injured ankle made improvement. He's expected to play.

"Joseph Addai worked and did well," the head coach Tony Dungy said after Friday's practice.

Addai, who is from Houston, leads all rookie running backs with 917 rushing yards. He needs 83 more yards to become the fourth rookie in team history to surpass the 1,000 yard mark (joining Edgerrin James, 1,553, Marshall Faulk, 1,282, and Dominic Rhodes, 1,104).

If he were to go over the 1,000 yard rushing mark, it would be Addai's first 1,000 yard year since his senior year of high school. He had 1,429 yards on 159 carries and 26 touchdowns as a senior. Addai's 911 yards at LSU last season was his collegiate single-season high.

"My ankle feels better now," Addai said Friday. "They were being patient with me and they just wanted me to rest (the ankle). But I feel like I'll be playing this week. We've been taking it slow, but it's been getting better day-by-day."

Sunday's trip back to Houston will be a special one for Addai, who hasn't played in a game in his home town since he left to attend college four years ago.

"It's always good to be playing at home in front of your family, especially on Christmas Eve. So it's going to mean a lot to me to be playing back at home," he said.

Needing only 83 yards to reach the 1,000 yard mark is sure to add even more to that excitement of his return trip to Houston, according to Addai.

"That would be nice for me to get that," he said. "But the biggest thing is still working on the small things and trying to get better and win the game. That's what we're trying to do and if I get 83 yards out that, I'll be happy about it."

#3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) didn't practice Friday and his status is considered a game day decision. Backup WR Aaron Moorehead would see more playing time if he can't play as well as backup TE Ben Utecht.

Backup TE Bryan Fletcher (quadriceps-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting G Ryan Lilja (knee) was rested Friday but is expected to start.

Backup DT Darrell Reid (hand-questionable) practiced all week and is expected to play.

Starting DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start. Starting DE Robert Mathis (knee) rested Thursday but he's expected to start.

Starting WLB Cato June (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Backup SLB Gilbert Gardner (knee-questionable) is expected to play. Backup MLB Rob Morris started over him last week and is expected to do so again.

Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) missed practice again Friday and is not expected to play. Backup DB Marlin Jackson (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start for him.

Starting SS Antoine Bethea (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

TEXANS

Saturday Update: Starting TE Owen Daniels (shoulder-questionable) has been dealing with a sore shoulder for several weeks and he didn't practice at all this week. If he's inactive, veteran TE Jeb Putzier will handle the receiving role and TE Mark Bruener will handling his usual blocking role. Look for Putzier to be playing elsewhere next season with the Jets as a possible destination.

The Texans are losing their offensive coordinator to the head coaching ranks. Troy Calhoun will be the next head coach at the Air Force academy.

``Troy was coach DeBerry's handpicked choice to replace him,'' said head coach Gary Kubiak. ``This is a great opportunity for Troy. He's a hell of a coach and a great person, and we're going to miss him. But this is his alma mater and a great institution. I know he's going to do very well.''

Assistant Head Coach/Offense Mike Sherman is the favorite to replace him.

Backup DT Lional Dalton (neck) and backup WR/KR Jerome Mathis (hamstring) were placed on IR Saturday.

Rookie CB John Walker and DT Tim Buhlman were signed off of the practice squad to replace them on the active roster.

Friday Update: Backup WR/KR Jerome Mathis (hamstring) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out and could be placed on IR.

Starting TE Owen Daniels (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and is questionable to play. Backup TE Jeb Putzier would start if he can't play.

Backup DT Lional Dalton (neck) missed practice again was downgraded to out.

Starting DEs Mario Williams (foot) and Anthony Weaver (knee) returned to practice Friday and are expected to start.

Starting FS C.C. Brown (toe-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.


BALTIMORE RAVENS (11-3) AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS (7-7) 1:00 PM EST

RAVENS

Saturday Update: While backup OT Adam Terry is a decent young player, let's not minimize the loss of starting OLT Jonathan Ogden (toe), who will miss this game because of turf toe. The Steelers will be pinning their ears back in hopes of exacting some revenge for the beating their quarterback took against Baltimore earlier this year and they won't ease up on Steve McNair.

Friday Update: Starting WR Derrick Mason (thigh) practiced Friday and was upgraded to probable Friday and is expected to start.

Starting WR Mark Clayton (chest) practiced Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to start.

"I landed on my back the other day at practice real hard diving for a ball," he said Friday. "It feels fine now."

Starting TE Todd Heap (thigh-questionable) did some limited practicing Friday but is expected to start. #2 TE Daniel Wilcox (knee/back-questionable) was limited again in practice Friday but should be able to play.

Starting OLT Jonathan Ogden (toe) was downgraded to doubtful Friday after missing practice again and isn't expected to play

"That toe's not looking good," head coach Brian Billick said Friday.

"If Jonathan could play, he would play," starting C Mike Flynn said. "He's sore, and you don't want to hurt it any worse. He'll be back next week and definitely back for the playoffs. There's no need to push it. It would be one thing if maybe we needed this game to get into the playoffs and he could try to do something Sunday before the game. But we knew going into this week that he wouldn't be playing. (Backup OT) Adam (Terry) is going to do a good job. It's not going to change our game plan. He'll be fine. He's played before against good players. He's athletic. The biggest thing is getting used to playing again. After the first series, he should be fine."

Starting CB Samari Rolle (neck stinger) was limited Friday but was upgraded to probable and is expected to start.

Backup S Gerome Sapp (thigh) practiced Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to play.

STEELERS

Saturday Update: Starting SS Troy Polamalu (knee-probable) practiced all week and is expected back in the lineup after missing three games. The Steelers will be without starting ORT Max Starks, but he's probably their weakest link on the line. The really like Willie Colon, who is a rookie out of Hoftsra. Can you think of any other rookies from Hoftsra playing in the league? Head coach Bill Cowher can only hope he looks half as good as his former teammate WR Marques Colston.

Friday Update: Starting ORT Max Starks (knee) is out. Rookie OL Willie Colon starts for him.

Starting C Jeff Hartings (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup ILB Clint Kreiwaldt (neck-probable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to play.

Former starting FS Ryan Clark (groin) is out. Rookie FS Anthony Smith will start again.

Starting SS Troy Polamalu (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S Mike Logan (hamstring) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to play. Backup S Tyrone Carter (concussion-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. Backup SAndre Lott (ankle) is out.


TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (3-11) AT CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-10) 1:00 PM EST

BUCCANEERS

Saturday Update: Need a last minute starter at RB this week or a flex player? Why not pickup Michael Pittman who will start in place of Cadillac Williams? The Browns have the league's 30th ranked defense against the run but Pittman at least will get a decent amount of touches.

QB Tim Rattay may also surprise by having a good day.

We could see a lot of rookie WR Maurice Stovall Sunday in place of veteran WR Ike Hilliard as the team wants to get a good look at him over the final two games.

Friday Update: Starting RB Cadillac Williams (foot) missed practice again on Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. He will likely miss his first game of 2006. He has been walking around with a protective boot on his right foot, which he injured in the second half of last week's game against the Bears.

"There's a doubtful chance that he'll play," head coach Jon Gruden said Friday.

Williams leads the team with 225 carries for 798 yards and one touchdown. He is fifth on the team in receiving (30 catches, 196 yards). He needs 24 rushing yards to reach 2,000 for his career.

Last year, his rookie season, Williams missed two games and parts of two others with a stubborn unrelated foot injury.

Backup RB Michael Pittman is expected to start with backup RB Earnest Graham likely playing a bigger role. Starting FB Mike Alstott likely would become a factor, too.

"We'll go with Pittman and Earnest and Alstott," said Gruden in discussing his other options. "Those guys will get the brunt of the work. Hopefully we can run the ball well enough to get all those guys involved. But I'm sure Cleveland has plans of stopping the run."

The absence of the team's leading rusher will certainly not help veteran QB Tim Rattay, who will make his first start as a member of the Buccaneers.

Elsewhere on the injury front, #2 TE Alex Smith (ankle), starting LCB Phillip Buchanon (groin-questionable), and backup CB Torrie Cox (neck) were all removed from the injury report and will be available in all their normal roles.

Nickel CB Juran Bolden (quadriceps-questionable) was back on the practice field Friday after missing the previous two days. He figures to fill his usual role on Sunday.

Backup CB Alan Zemaitis (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday. He has been inactive for each of their first 14 games.

Backup WLB Jamie Winborn (knee-questionable) was back at practice on Friday after missing the previous two days. He is expected to be available for duty on Sunday.

BROWNS

Saturday Update: Starting WR Joe Jurevicius (concussion-questionable) practiced and will play against his former team. Jurevicius was a big part of Tampa's Super Bowl championship team before being cut as a salary cap casualty in March of 2005. He spent last season in Seattle where he got to play in another Super Bowl but signed with Cleveland because that's the team he grew up rooting for and he wanted to return home.

While the team will likely start backup LB Chaun Thompson for ILB Andra Davis (concussion-doubtful), backup LB Mason Unck (groin-questionable) may also see some time there.

Friday Update: Starting QB Charlie Frye (wrist-questionable) missed practice again Friday and won't play. Backup QB Derek Anderson starts again for him again.

Starting RB Reuben Droughns (foot) practiced again Friday and was removed from the injury report and will start. Rookie RB Jerome Harrison will back up Droughns.

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

Starting TE Kellen Winslow (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup TE Darnell Dinkins (neck-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

Starting G Cosey Coleman (toe-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Starting G Joe Andruzzi (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and should be able to pla.y

Starting DT Ted Washington (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to start.

Starting DE Alvin McKinley (shoulder) was limited in practice this week and remains questionable to play. Backup DL Nick Eason (foot-questionable) returned to practice Friday and should be able to play.

Starting ILB Andra Davis (concussion) was downgraded to doubtful on Friday after not getting cleared to play. Backup LB Chaun Thompson will likely start for him.

Starting OLB Willie McGinest (pectoral-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting CB Leigh Bodden (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to out. Backup CB Ralph Brown will likely start for him.


CHICAGO BEARS (12-2) AT DETROIT LIONS (2-12) 1:00 PM EST

BEARS

Saturday Update: We're told this evening that the coaches plan to play the starters into the third quarter which they feel is just enough to keep them sharp. Last year, they rested all the starters in the final game of the season at the Vikings and the team wasn't sharp against the Panthers a few weeks later.

We're also told starting RB Thomas Jones (ribs-questionable) will start but of all the starters, he's likely to play the least (our guess is about a half). The team plans to get a good look at backup RB Cedric Benson in the game and he's expected to handle the majority of the carries once Jones is done playing.

Friday Update: The Bears have several prominent players are listed for Sunday's game in Detroit, but with home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs already in hand, the team has the luxury of not having to rush players back into the lineup.

Of the starters who have recently missed time CB Nathan Vasher (right hamstring-probable) and SS Todd Johnson (right ankle-questionable) are the only players who practiced each day this week and both are slated to return.

Vasher has missed the last three games but was upgraded Thursday from questionable. Johnson has missed the last two outings. Former starting S Chris Harris has filled in for Johnson, while Ricky Manning Jr., has started for Vasher.

Besides Johnson, the four other starters listed as questionable are RB Thomas Jones (ribs), OLT John Tait (left ankle), LG Ruben Brown (shoulder), and CB Charles Tillman (back).

None of the four practiced Wednesday but Jones returned to practice on Thursday and Friday. He has been slowed by ankle and hamstring problems the past few weeks and it's likely he'll be spelled prominently in the game, if he plays at all, by backup RB Cedric Benson, who is averaging 12 carries for 55 yards over his last five games with three touchdowns.

Tait and Tillman didn't practice at all this week.

Tait was replaced by backup OT John St. Clair in Sunday's win and that is likely to be the case again this week. If Tillman is held out and Vasher plays, Manning Jr. would remain in the starting lineup.

Brown, who practiced Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday, was downgraded Thursday from probable. If he's unable to play Sunday, backup OL Terrence Metcalf would step in.

Special teams LB Leon Joe (left hamstring) is also listed as questionable. He injured the hamstring on the game's opening kickoff in New England Nov. 26 and practiced for the first time since then on Thursday. He sat out Friday, however, and appears to be at least another week away from returning He also missed two games earlier in the season with a strain in his right hamstring.

Starting C Olin Kreutz (knee-probable) was added to the injury report Thursday when he was given a veteran's day of rest. The Pro Bowl starter returned to practice on Friday and will start Sunday.

Starting SLB Hunter Hillenmeyer (thigh-probable) was removed from the injury report on Thursday. He had been listed as probable Wednesday when he sat out practice.

Personnel-wise, there's a chance that rookie KR/PR/CB Devin Hester could get a look at receiver before the regular season ends. He has taken reps there despite team assertions that he is solely a cornerback for now. His potential insertion on offense could be nothing more than a way to force prospective playoff opponents to account for an additional personnel package, although the breakaway speed he's brandished this year makes him dangerous anytime he touches the ball.

LIONS

Saturday Update: Despite having only two wins and nothing to play for, the decision has been made for starting QB Jon Kitna to handle that role for the final two games.

Friday Update: The team's IR list stable grew to 14 players this week when the team added starting DT Marcus Bell (hand) and starting ORT Barry Stokes (ankle) to the list. Bell broke his hand vs. the Vikings and underwent surgery last Friday.

Backup DT Anthony Bryant, who was signed off Tampa's practice squad two weeks ago, will get his second straight start on the interior for Bell alongside DE Cory Redding and backup DT Cleveland Pinckney will rotate in off the bench. On the offensive line, rookie OL Jonathan Scott will start in Stokes' place the last two games, further adding to that unit's weekly change in personnel.

Starting LG Ross Verba (groin-out) likely won't play in the season finale, either. Backup OL Stephen Peterman, who was promoted from the practice squad last week, and rookie Frank Davis will start at guard Sunday, leaving veteran OL Rick DeMulling to come in off the bench if needed.

Also listed on the injury report are backup LB Teddy Lehman (hamstring-doubtful) and veteran TE Marcus Pollard (hamstring-questionable), although Pollard, who was inactive last week, practiced each day this week. Lehman has missed the last three games and didn't practice this week.

KR/PR/WR Eddie Drummond (hip-questionable) was downgraded Thursday from probable. He practiced Wednesday but was unable to on Thursday and Friday. If he can't play, backup RB Aveion Cason would likely assume his return duties.

Starting CB Fernando Bryant (concussion-probable) returned to practice fully this week for the first time since being injured Dec. 3. He's on track to start Sunday. Backup CB Stanley Wilson has started for Bryant the last two weeks.

Starting OLT Jeff Backus (foot) was removed from the list on Thursday after being listed as probable on Wednesday when he rested his sore foot. He has gone through the same regimen for several weeks but hasn't missed any game-time.

To replace Stokes and Bell on the roster, the Lions signed free agents DT Langston Moore and RB Lamar Gordon.

With so many players out, head coach Rod Marinelli is getting a chance to see plenty of players receive action. One of those players is Gordon, who may be active Sunday.

"He's a big presence, especially in pass blocking," said Marinelli. "He's got size enough to pick up their backers."

Backup WR Corey Bradford (elbow) was one of the players Marinelli identified as being injured in last Sunday's loss, but after an MRI earlier in the week, he's been cleared to play.


NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (10-4) AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (8-6) 1:00 PM EST

PATRIOTS

Saturday Update: Backup RB Laurence Maroney (back-questionable) and starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder) both traveled with the team to Jacksonville, which is a good sign that they will be active tomorrow. We'll confirm their status at least an hour before tomorrow's game.

The team signed WR Byron "Bam" Childress off of the practice squad Saturday to the active roster.

Friday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder), nickel CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist), and starting DE Richard Seymour (elbow) practiced again Friday and will play in their normal role.

The team signed veteran P Todd Sauerbrun on Friday to handle that job.

Backup RB Laurence Maroney (back-questionable) practiced again Friday but while the club is optimistic, he's certainly not a lock to play. His status remains a game day decision and he's doing better this week than he was at this time last week. They're being careful with him so that this injury doesn't linger. Backup RB Kevin Faulk (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and should play although he's not 100 percent.

Starting ORT Ryan O'Callaghan (neck) practiced again Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup OT Nick Kaczur is working in his place.

Backup TE Ben Watson (knee) and starting DT Vince Wilfork (ankle) missed practice again Friday and despite being listed as questionable, likely won't play. Backup DLMike Wright (questionable-shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to start for Wilford while rookie TE Dave Thomas sees extra time for Watson.

Starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder) practiced again Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup S James Sanders will likely start again for him. He’s missed six weeks but has a chance to be active.

JAGUARS

Saturday Update: RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee-probable) is in contention for this year's rookie of the year award and we expect him to have a good game tomorrow against a defense that will be missing its best player versus the run, NT Vince Wilfork (ankle-questionable).

Friday Update: Starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) was downgraded to out from questionable on Friday after being unable to practice for the third straight day.

"He's just not ready to go," head coach Jack Del Rio said. "We'll give him the weekend to rest it, and hopefully we'll have him back at practice next week."

Taylor, who has rushed for 1,120 yards this year, will be replaced by rookie backup RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee-probable) Sunday vs. New England. Jones-Drew, who has 764 yards rushing and 10 TDs, has been hobbled of late also by a sore calf but got three full days of practice in this week and should be ready for full-time action.

"I think that it's the smart thing to do at this point," Taylor said of sitting out vs. the Patriots. "For my future, my well being ... I don't want to rip it. I don't want to tear it. I have all the faith and confidence in my team to get this win on Sunday."

#3 RB LaBrandon Toefield also figures to back up Jones-Drew. He had six carries for 25 yards after Taylor had left the loss to the Titans.

The only two other players to miss any practice this week are starting DT Marcus Stroud (right ankle-probable), and backup DT Tony McDaniel (hip-questionable) - have missed any practice time this week.

Stroud, who still isn't 100 percent recovered from a severe ankle injury suffered in the season opener, and McDaniel, both worked fully Thursday and Friday after sitting out Wednesday's session.

The other six players listed are probable and all practiced each day this week and are expected to play in their usual roles. They are P Chris Hanson (left hamstring), backup LB Jorge Cordova (hamstring), starting RG Vince Manuwai (wrist), backup CB Ahmad Carroll (groin), backup RB Montell Owens (head), and starting FB Derrick Wimbush (ankle).


ARIZONA CARDINALS (4-10) AT SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (6-8) 4:05 PM EST

CARDINALS

Saturday Update: The 49ers have given up 23 touchdown passes this year and starting QB Matt Leinart should be able to find his receivers against the 49er secondary. San Francisco also struggles to apply pressure (29 sacks) so Leinart will have time to get the ball down the field more often.

Friday Update: Backup RB Marcel Shipp (ribs-probable) practiced again Friday and should be able to play. He was inactive last week.

Starting OLT Leonard Davis returned to practice Friday and is expected to start unless he needs to be with his seriously ill father who 83 years old. Backup OT Oliver Ross would start for him if needed

Starting MLB Gerald Hayes (ribs-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. Backup MLB Monty Beisel will likely start for him.

Backup OLB/DE Calvin Pace (illness-probable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to play.

Nickel CB Eric Green (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

49ERS

Saturday Update: With #1 WR Antonio Bryant (four-game suspension) out, look for starting WR Arnaz Battle to be the main target of starting QB Alex Smith in the game.

Backup WR Bryan Gilmore, who starts for Bryant, was coached by legendary 49er receiver coach Jerry Sullivan when the two were with the Cardinals and Dolphins.

Friday Update: Starting WR Antonio Bryant has been suspended without pay for the team's next four games (regular season or playoffs) for violating the NFL Substance Abuse Policy.

Bryant will miss the final two games of this season and the first two games of next year. If the team make the playoffs those games will count against the suspension as well. He can still participate in training camp, preseason, and with the team in the off-season.

Bryant was arrested last month on charges of reckless driving, driving under the influence and resisting arrest after being pulled over in his Lamborghini doing in excess of 100 m.p.h.

In his first year in San Francisco, Bryant has been starting QB Alex Smith's primary target. He has 40 catches for 733 yards and three scores this year.

Backup WR Bryan Gilmore will start in place of Bryant. He has caught seven passes for 136 yards on the year. Seldom used backup WR Taylor Jacobs will also see some snaps in back of Gilmore.

Backup TE Eric Johnson (knee) practiced again Friday but remains questionable to play. He has missed three games with an MCL sprain but is likely to return to limited action Sunday as starting TE Vernon Davis' backup.

Meanwhile, backup OT Adam Snyder (ankle/knee) practiced again Friday but remains listed as questionable. He could be available this weekend against Arizona after missing the last two games. If he can play, Snyder would likely split duty at right tackle with starting ORT Kwame Harris.

On defense, starting MLB Derek Smith (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. Smith has missed two games with a hamstring strain. Backup ILB Jeff Ulbrich has been starting for him. They'll see how Smith does in pre-game warm-ups Sunday before making a decision on who will start.

Starting DT Ron Fields suffered a broken arm in Wednesday's practice and was placed on IR. Backup DT Ike Sopoaga is expected to start for him.


CINCINNATI BENGALS (8-6) AT DENVER BRONCOS (8-6) 4:15 PM EST

BENGALS

Saturday Update: Starting OLT Levi Jones (questionable-knee) will play but whether or not he starts is still undecided. The Broncos have done a good job of using rookie DE/OLB Elvis Dumervil (7 sacks) off the edge and Jones might not be ready for his quickness in this his first game action since injuring himself on October 15.

Friday Update: Starting QB Carson Palmer (probable-right shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting WR Chad Johnson (probable-ankle) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

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

Starting C Rich Braham (knee) was downgraded to out on Friday after not practicing again. Backup C Eric Ghiaciuc starts again for him.

Starting OLT Levi Jones (questionable-knee) practiced on Friday and head coach Marvin Lewis said after practice that he expects Jones to play, although Lewis did not say whether Jones would start or not. Rookie OT Andrew Whitworth struggled against Colt DE Dwight Freeney on Monday and this could be the perfect time to put Jones back into the lineup against a speedy Denver defense.

Starting ORT Willie Anderson (foot-probable) was rested all week but is still expected to start. Backup OL Stacey Andrews would start for him if needed.

Starting DE Bryan Robinson (toe-probable) missed practice again Friday but is still expected to start. Backup DT Domata Peko would start if needed.

Backup LB Andre Frazier (groin-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. He plays mostly on special teams.

BRONCOS

Saturday Update: Rookie TE Tony Scheffler has become one of starting QB Jay Cutler's favorite receivers since taking over the offense three games ago. Scheffler has 7 catches for 139 yards with 2 TDs in his last three games and we feel he'll do well again tomorrow. Scheffler is a very good dynasty league prospect so now is the time to get him. Denver took a chance on the little known tight end before the draft for two big reasons. He's very athletic and he ran under 4.4 in private workouts.

Friday Update: Starting WR Javon Walker (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. He has a grade-1 shoulder separation which is the lowest grade. It's considered a minor injury.

Starting TE Stephen Alexander (ribs-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

K Jason Elam (left hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting OT Adam Meadows (hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Former starting OT George Foster would start again if needed.

Starting MLB Al Wilson (thumb-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Starting CB/PR Darrent Williams (toe/shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup CB Karl Paymah (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.


SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (12-2) AT SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (8-6) 4:15 PM EST

CHARGERS

Saturday Update:Second-year WR Vincent Jackson has catches of 46 and 55 yards in his last two games and has quickly become the club's downfield weapon. We look for Jackson to do more of the same against Seattle especially with starting WR Eric Parker (neck-questionable) not expected to play.

Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle) and starting ILB Randall Godfrey (hamstring-questionable) also will likely be inactive on Sunday.

Backup ILB Stephen Cooper, who is slated to start for Godfrey, is seen as his long-term replacement and has good dynasty league value for the future. The team already signed him to a long-term extension earlier this season.

Friday Update: Starting WR Eric Parker (neck) missed practice Friday and remains very questionable to play. Backup WR Vincent Jackson would likely start if needed. Backup WR Kassim Osgood (illness-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.

Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play. Backup DE Jacques Cesaire would start if needed. Backup DE Derreck Robinson (foot-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.

Starting ILB Randall Godfrey (hamstring) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play. Backup ILB Stephen Cooper would start if needed.

Starting OLB Shawne Merriman (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup OLB Marques Harris (hamstring) practiced again Friday and was upgraded from questionable to probable and is expected to play.

Starting CB Drayton Florence (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup S Bhawoh Jue (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.

SEAHAWKS

Saturday Update: Starting RB Shaun Alexander is clearly the biggest fantasy disappointment of the season. We understand that he missed six games due to injury but he's only has four rushing touchdowns in eight starts a year after setting an NFL record with 27 rushing TDs. Keep in mind he turns 30 in August and his offensive line clearly isn't as good as it once was so now is the time to move him if you're in a keeper/dynasty league if you can get equal value.

Backup WR Bobby Engram, who saw limited snaps in last week's game, is expected to see more against the Chargers.

“He’s feeling good. In fact, it’s my understanding that they were able to do a little bit with his medication, and back off just a little bit that way. But he’s feeling strong. He’s feeling good. Now he’s a little rusty out there today. I never have to correct him on anything, and I had to do it a couple times today. It’s nice to have him back. He’s one of the key guys, I think, that helps us go and it’s good to have him back," head coach Mike Holmgren said.

Former starting SS Michael Boulware is expected to start over current starting SS Jordan Babineaux on Sunday. The team is looking for more size to help their sagging run defense and Boulware, a former collegiate linebacker, has better size than Babineaux.

Friday Update: Starting WR Darrell Jackson (toe-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup WR Nate Burleson starting for him again. Backup WR D.J. Hackett will split playing time again with Burleson. Backup WR Bobby Engram is also expected to see more playing time this week.

Starting G Floyd Womack (groin-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Rookie G Rob Sims is expected to start for him.

Starting C Robbie Tobeck (hip) remains out with backup C Chris Spencer filling in again.

Starting DT Rocky Bernard (foot-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.

Backup DE Robert Pollard (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.