Former New York Times reporter Judith Miller acknowledged Wednesday that she had conversations with other government officials and could not be "absolutely, absolutely certain" that she first heard about an outed CIA official from I. Lewis "Scooter" Libby.
Libby's attorneys seized on the hesitation and tried to portray Miller as someone who selectively remembers some conversations and not others.
Miller is a crucial witness against Libby in his perjury and obstruction trial. She says she had two conversations about CIA operative Valerie Plame in mid-2003 with Libby, who was Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff. Those conversations are at the heart of the trial because they allegedly occurred well before Libby says he learned Plame's identity from another reporter.
Libby's defense strategy revolves around showing jurors that he didn't lie about his conversations with Miller and others, but simply forgot them. If defense attorneys can cast doubt on Miller's memory and her story, it would bolster Libby's case.
During a sometimes heated cross-examination Wednesday, defense attorneys pressed Miller to acknowledge that she might have heard about Plame elsewhere. In mid-2003, Miller was investigating allegations by Plame's husband, former Ambassador Joseph Wilson, that the Bush administration ignored certain prewar intelligence on Iraq.
Attorney William Jeffress asked Miller to recall the other government officials she spoke to and explain how Wilson's name and phone number got into her notebook prior to the conversation with Libby.
"I don't remember their names. I don't know what you want me to say beyond that," Miller said, adding moments later, "I know I had several conversations but there is no reference to them in my notebook and I have no independent recollection."
Jeffress persisted, showing Miller excerpts from her grand jury testimony in which she said her conversation with Libby was "among the first times" she heard about Plame but couldn't be certain it was the first.
"You're not absolutely certain you first heard that Mr. Wilson's wife worked at the CIA from Mr. Libby?" Jeffress asked.
"I can't be absolutely, absolutely certain, but I have no recollection of an earlier conversation with anyone else," Miller replied.
Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald's case began as an investigation into who leaked Plame's name to reporters at a time when her husband was criticizing the administration. Three years later, nobody has been charged with the leak. Libby is accused of obstructing the case and lying to investigators.
Former Time magazine reporter Matthew Cooper followed Miller on the stand and testified briefly before the court's lunch break Wednesday. Cooper said that during a July 12, 2003 conversation, he asked Libby whether Wilson's wife was involved in sending Wilson on a fact-finding trip to Niger.
Cooper said Libby responded, "Yeah, I've heard that too," or "Yeah, I've heard something like that, too."
Cooper said he first learned about Plame from White House aide Karl Rove and said Libby's confirmation was off the record. Libby's attorneys say he was simply repeating what he had learned from another reporter, NBC's Tim Russert. Cooper was to continue testifying Wednesday afternoon.
Libby's attorneys also said Wednesday that they want to know more about another Fitzgerald case involving Miller. Fitzgerald has sought to get Miller's phone records in an investigation into who leaked the details about an investigation into an Islamic charity.
Theodore Wells, another of Libby's attorneys, said he wants to know more about conversations between Miller and Fitzgerald in that case. If Miller feared prosecution in that case, Wells said, it could motivate her to cooperate in Libby's case and thus cast doubt on her testimony.
Journalism organizations have decried this trial, which could see 10 reporters become witnesses. Jeffress has said that up to seven reporters are on his witness list.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Iranian Agents
NBC NEWS confirms a secret U.S. military report that says 'Iranian Agents' may be behind a deadly ambush in Karbala, Iraq that left five American soldiers dead. The report also claims the Iranian revolutionary guard is providing intelligence on U.S. and Iraqi military to Shiite extremists, in addition to sophisticated weaponry.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
AIR AMERICA
By Jennifer Harper
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Published January 30, 2007
Air America Radio was rescued from bankruptcy yesterday, but still faces the impending loss of Al Franken, its most popular talker.
The liberal network will be sold to Stephen Green, a Manhattan real estate investment mogul with heavy Democratic ties, including his brother Mark Green, who ran for mayor against Michael R. Bloomberg in 2001. The sale of the network -- deemed a "personal investment" by the two brothers -- will be completed in mid-February for an undisclosed sum.
Mr. Green is intent on bringing solvency to Air America, which has been troubled by flagging ratings, cash deficits and management turmoil since it was founded almost three years ago as a foil to popular conservative talk radio.
The network was often called "Err America" by critics.
"In the long run, content is king," said Mr. Green, vowing to stabilize the network's finances, beef up the talent roster and extend the Air America "brand" into other marketing or broadcast opportunities. The network's weekly audience has been stuck at just under 2 million since the beginning -- about one-tenth the number of listeners who tune in each week to conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh.
"The current idea in radio is that you have to think outside the box, and find other ways to get content across," said Joe Howard, editor of Radio Ink, an industry publication. "With Air America, you have to wonder if there is enough audience for it to thrive, or if the network is a niche product."
Niche or not, the on-air lineup will suffer when Mr. Franken leaves. He told his listeners he would depart Feb. 14 but was coy about whether he would run against Republican Sen. Norm Coleman in 2008 for the U.S. Senate seat in his home state of Minnesota.
"I'm definitely giving it some serious consideration, and I'll make my decision soon," Mr. Franken said yesterday.
He has regarded Air America as a political platform since the beginning.
"Today is both an ending and a beginning -- an end to the right-wing dominance of talk radio, a beginning of a battle for truth, a battle for justice, a battle indeed for America," Mr. Franken said on his first broadcast when the network signed on with five affiliates on March 31, 2004.
He founded the Midwest Values PAC two years ago to provide support to "progressive candidates, activists and causes" around the country, according to his personal Web site. Mr. Franken will be replaced in his noon-3 p.m. time slot by Thom Hartmann.
Meanwhile, Sheldon Drobny, Air America's original founder, left the company and is busy with a Nova M Radio, a national progressive talk-radio network in partnership Joe Trippi, Howard Dean's former campaign manager. The fledgling network broadcasts in 12 cities, funded by "grass-roots membership," according to publicity materials.
"Air America at best will be another content company with a name tarnished by bad-management bankruptcy. And the prospective rescuers have no experience in radio," Mr. Drobny wrote at the online Huffington Post yesterday, later concluding, "Relying on mega-millionaire liberals to put ego aside for the common good is almost impossible."
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Published January 30, 2007
Air America Radio was rescued from bankruptcy yesterday, but still faces the impending loss of Al Franken, its most popular talker.
The liberal network will be sold to Stephen Green, a Manhattan real estate investment mogul with heavy Democratic ties, including his brother Mark Green, who ran for mayor against Michael R. Bloomberg in 2001. The sale of the network -- deemed a "personal investment" by the two brothers -- will be completed in mid-February for an undisclosed sum.
Mr. Green is intent on bringing solvency to Air America, which has been troubled by flagging ratings, cash deficits and management turmoil since it was founded almost three years ago as a foil to popular conservative talk radio.
The network was often called "Err America" by critics.
"In the long run, content is king," said Mr. Green, vowing to stabilize the network's finances, beef up the talent roster and extend the Air America "brand" into other marketing or broadcast opportunities. The network's weekly audience has been stuck at just under 2 million since the beginning -- about one-tenth the number of listeners who tune in each week to conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh.
"The current idea in radio is that you have to think outside the box, and find other ways to get content across," said Joe Howard, editor of Radio Ink, an industry publication. "With Air America, you have to wonder if there is enough audience for it to thrive, or if the network is a niche product."
Niche or not, the on-air lineup will suffer when Mr. Franken leaves. He told his listeners he would depart Feb. 14 but was coy about whether he would run against Republican Sen. Norm Coleman in 2008 for the U.S. Senate seat in his home state of Minnesota.
"I'm definitely giving it some serious consideration, and I'll make my decision soon," Mr. Franken said yesterday.
He has regarded Air America as a political platform since the beginning.
"Today is both an ending and a beginning -- an end to the right-wing dominance of talk radio, a beginning of a battle for truth, a battle for justice, a battle indeed for America," Mr. Franken said on his first broadcast when the network signed on with five affiliates on March 31, 2004.
He founded the Midwest Values PAC two years ago to provide support to "progressive candidates, activists and causes" around the country, according to his personal Web site. Mr. Franken will be replaced in his noon-3 p.m. time slot by Thom Hartmann.
Meanwhile, Sheldon Drobny, Air America's original founder, left the company and is busy with a Nova M Radio, a national progressive talk-radio network in partnership Joe Trippi, Howard Dean's former campaign manager. The fledgling network broadcasts in 12 cities, funded by "grass-roots membership," according to publicity materials.
"Air America at best will be another content company with a name tarnished by bad-management bankruptcy. And the prospective rescuers have no experience in radio," Mr. Drobny wrote at the online Huffington Post yesterday, later concluding, "Relying on mega-millionaire liberals to put ego aside for the common good is almost impossible."
Sunday, January 21, 2007
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Sunday
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (11-6) AT CHICAGO BEARS (14-3) 3:00 PM EST
SAINTS
Friday Update: Starting WR Joe Horn (questionable-groin), again, ran but didn't participate in the team part of practice. Officially the team is calling his status a game-decision but because he hasn't tested his partially torn groin in the normal part of practice since he originally got hurt, he probably won't play. Look for backup WR Devery Henderson to take up most of his role again.
Starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start although backup TE Billy Miller, who played well last week, could share time with him.
Starting SS Omar Stoutmire (hip-questionable) practiced again Friday and could be available but backup SS Jay Bellamy will probably start again for him.
Thursday Update: Heading into Sunday's NFC Championship Game in Chicago, New Orleans only lists three players on their injury report, foremost among them only starting WR Joe Horn (groin-questionable).
He hasn't played since a failed attempt to work into action Dec. 3. He practiced late during the bye week for the first time in several weeks but wasn't able to practice last week and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday of this week, diminishing his chances of being available Sunday. Horn also missed the first two games of November but he started in the next three contests after that span. Horn has been running and has participated in limited drills but hasn't done any team work.
#3 WR Devery Henderson started opposite the other starting WR, rookie Marques Colston, vs. the Eagles last Saturday. If Horn is out again, the personnel the Saints use this week will depend on down, distance and formation, with rookie RB Reggie Bush also splitting out wide on occasion and #4 WR Terrence Copper also seeing extensive time.
Also listed are starting SS Omar Stoutmire (hip-questionable) and starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-probable/upgraded from questionable).
Stoutmire, who had been bothered previously with a knee injury, missed the last three games of the season and was inactive last week as well but he practiced both Wednesday and Thursday of this week.
Veteran S Steve Gleason started in his place Dec. 17, and then backup SS Jay Bellamy has filled in the last three games.
Campbell rested Wednesday but returned fully on Thursday and should start Sunday.
BEARS
Friday Update: Backup WR Mark Bradley (questionable-ankle) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup WR Justin Gage filling in.
Starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (illness) returned to practice Friday and was removed from the injury report and will start.
Thursday Update: The only player in danger of not playing in Sunday's NFC Championship Game is #4 WR Mark Bradley (questionable). He injured his right ankle last Sunday and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday. If Bradley isn't available, backup WR Justin Gage would likely be active. He was inactive last week.
Starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (illness-probable) was added to the injury report Thursday when he sat out of practice with the flu. He's expected back on the practice field Friday and will start vs. the Saints.
The only other player to miss practice this week is starting DE Adewale Ogunleye, who rested Wednesday with a quadriceps contusion suffered vs. the Seahawks. He returned for a full day of work Thursday and will start Sunday and was removed from the injury report.
Starting FB Jason McKie (ankle) and starting LCB Charles Tillman (back) both made it through the Divisional playoff win no worse for the wear, returning from multi-week absences to end the regular season. Neither player is listed on the injury report and will start.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (14-4) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (14-4) 6:35 PM EST
PATRIOTS
Friday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Friday and will start.
Backup DE Mike Wright (illness-flu/questionable), backup OT Ryan O'Callaghan (illness-flu/questionable), and veteran WR Troy Brown (illness-flu/questionable) all did limited practicing again Friday and are expected to be available for the game in their usual roles.
Starting SS Rodney Harrison (sprained knee-doubtful) saw limited practice time again Friday but is not expected to play with backup S James Sanders starting again for him.
Thursday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Thursday and will start.
A flu bug has hit has backup DE Mike Wright (illness-flu/questionable), backup OT Ryan O'Callaghan (illness-flu/questionable), and veteran WR Troy Brown (illness-flu/questionable). All practiced Thursday and are expected to be available for the game in their usual roles. Brown came off the bench last week with WR Jabar Gaffney starting.
Starting SS Rodney Harrison (sprained knee-doubtful) saw limited practice time Thursday but is not expected to play. If the Patriots advance to the Super Bowl, there’s an excellent chance that Harrison would be ready to play.
Backup S James Sanders is expected to start in Harrison’s place this week and he’s played well in recent weeks.
COLTS
Friday Update: #3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday and if he gets through pre-game warmups well on Sunday, he should be able to play.
Starting ORT Ryan Diem (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (sprained knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WLB Cato June (concussion-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Rob Morris (knee) was added to the injury report as questionable and his status will be decided closer to game time. If he can't play, former starting SLB Gilbert Gardner would likely start for him. Morris was held out of Friday's practice as a precaution.
Starting CB Nick Harper (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
The team could upgrade several of those players listed as questionable as they have done on many Saturday's this season.
Thursday Update: Rookie RB Joseph Addai (shoulder) was injured in last week's game but is practicing and isn't listed on the injury report and is expected to start his third straight game.
Starting WR Marvin Harrison continues to deal with a lingering sore wrist but is practicing fully and will start and isn't listed on the injury report. #3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Thursday. Proehl signed with the team for the final five games of the regular season and playoffs. He has only been active for two games and has missed the last four games including both playoff games. If he can practice again Friday, he should be able to play. If he's unable to play again, backup WR Aaron Moorehead fills in.
Starting ORT Ryan Diem (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (sprained knee-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. He suffered the injury in their next to last game of the regular season at the Texans and missed the next two games but returned to the field last week.
Starting WLB Cato June (concussion-questionable) was cleared to practice and play Sunday. He's practiced the last two days and is expected to start.
Starting CB Nick Harper (ankle-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. He's been dealing with a sore ankle for about three weeks but has been able to play through it.
Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Sanders missed 12 regular season games due to knee problems. He had a scope on his injured right knee back in late September. Sanders could be rested tomorrow as the team did with him last Friday.
It's looking like all of their injured players will be available for the game.
“Yesterday was a pretty good day for us. I think we got the work done that we needed to do. Most of our guys were able to work and practice. We rested a couple of guys routinely. That’s what we’ve done the last four or five weeks. Bob Sanders practiced and did well. Joseph Addai practiced and did well. It was a good start to the week," head coach Tony Dungy said Thursday.
Russ Grimm has been offered and has accepted the Steelers' head coaching position, a source in Pittsburgh confirmed late Saturday... ESPN and SI.com, Sports Illustrated's Web site, reported yesterday that Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin had been chosen to replace Cowher.....
In the same week the Bengals gave Carolina permission to interview quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese for its offensive coordinator job, they denied the Browns the same opportunity. The Bengals wouldn't let a talent like Zampese, whose knowledge of their offense probably is second only to coordinator Bob Bratkowski's, leave for a division rival. Panthers coach John Fox is believed to have completed outside and in-house interviews and is expected to let candidates know by Tuesday.....
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (11-6) AT CHICAGO BEARS (14-3) 3:00 PM EST
SAINTS
Friday Update: Starting WR Joe Horn (questionable-groin), again, ran but didn't participate in the team part of practice. Officially the team is calling his status a game-decision but because he hasn't tested his partially torn groin in the normal part of practice since he originally got hurt, he probably won't play. Look for backup WR Devery Henderson to take up most of his role again.
Starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start although backup TE Billy Miller, who played well last week, could share time with him.
Starting SS Omar Stoutmire (hip-questionable) practiced again Friday and could be available but backup SS Jay Bellamy will probably start again for him.
Thursday Update: Heading into Sunday's NFC Championship Game in Chicago, New Orleans only lists three players on their injury report, foremost among them only starting WR Joe Horn (groin-questionable).
He hasn't played since a failed attempt to work into action Dec. 3. He practiced late during the bye week for the first time in several weeks but wasn't able to practice last week and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday of this week, diminishing his chances of being available Sunday. Horn also missed the first two games of November but he started in the next three contests after that span. Horn has been running and has participated in limited drills but hasn't done any team work.
#3 WR Devery Henderson started opposite the other starting WR, rookie Marques Colston, vs. the Eagles last Saturday. If Horn is out again, the personnel the Saints use this week will depend on down, distance and formation, with rookie RB Reggie Bush also splitting out wide on occasion and #4 WR Terrence Copper also seeing extensive time.
Also listed are starting SS Omar Stoutmire (hip-questionable) and starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-probable/upgraded from questionable).
Stoutmire, who had been bothered previously with a knee injury, missed the last three games of the season and was inactive last week as well but he practiced both Wednesday and Thursday of this week.
Veteran S Steve Gleason started in his place Dec. 17, and then backup SS Jay Bellamy has filled in the last three games.
Campbell rested Wednesday but returned fully on Thursday and should start Sunday.
BEARS
Friday Update: Backup WR Mark Bradley (questionable-ankle) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup WR Justin Gage filling in.
Starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (illness) returned to practice Friday and was removed from the injury report and will start.
Thursday Update: The only player in danger of not playing in Sunday's NFC Championship Game is #4 WR Mark Bradley (questionable). He injured his right ankle last Sunday and didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday. If Bradley isn't available, backup WR Justin Gage would likely be active. He was inactive last week.
Starting WR Muhsin Muhammad (illness-probable) was added to the injury report Thursday when he sat out of practice with the flu. He's expected back on the practice field Friday and will start vs. the Saints.
The only other player to miss practice this week is starting DE Adewale Ogunleye, who rested Wednesday with a quadriceps contusion suffered vs. the Seahawks. He returned for a full day of work Thursday and will start Sunday and was removed from the injury report.
Starting FB Jason McKie (ankle) and starting LCB Charles Tillman (back) both made it through the Divisional playoff win no worse for the wear, returning from multi-week absences to end the regular season. Neither player is listed on the injury report and will start.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (14-4) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (14-4) 6:35 PM EST
PATRIOTS
Friday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Friday and will start.
Backup DE Mike Wright (illness-flu/questionable), backup OT Ryan O'Callaghan (illness-flu/questionable), and veteran WR Troy Brown (illness-flu/questionable) all did limited practicing again Friday and are expected to be available for the game in their usual roles.
Starting SS Rodney Harrison (sprained knee-doubtful) saw limited practice time again Friday but is not expected to play with backup S James Sanders starting again for him.
Thursday Update: Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Thursday and will start.
A flu bug has hit has backup DE Mike Wright (illness-flu/questionable), backup OT Ryan O'Callaghan (illness-flu/questionable), and veteran WR Troy Brown (illness-flu/questionable). All practiced Thursday and are expected to be available for the game in their usual roles. Brown came off the bench last week with WR Jabar Gaffney starting.
Starting SS Rodney Harrison (sprained knee-doubtful) saw limited practice time Thursday but is not expected to play. If the Patriots advance to the Super Bowl, there’s an excellent chance that Harrison would be ready to play.
Backup S James Sanders is expected to start in Harrison’s place this week and he’s played well in recent weeks.
COLTS
Friday Update: #3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Friday and if he gets through pre-game warmups well on Sunday, he should be able to play.
Starting ORT Ryan Diem (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (sprained knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WLB Cato June (concussion-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Rob Morris (knee) was added to the injury report as questionable and his status will be decided closer to game time. If he can't play, former starting SLB Gilbert Gardner would likely start for him. Morris was held out of Friday's practice as a precaution.
Starting CB Nick Harper (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
The team could upgrade several of those players listed as questionable as they have done on many Saturday's this season.
Thursday Update: Rookie RB Joseph Addai (shoulder) was injured in last week's game but is practicing and isn't listed on the injury report and is expected to start his third straight game.
Starting WR Marvin Harrison continues to deal with a lingering sore wrist but is practicing fully and will start and isn't listed on the injury report. #3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) practiced again Thursday. Proehl signed with the team for the final five games of the regular season and playoffs. He has only been active for two games and has missed the last four games including both playoff games. If he can practice again Friday, he should be able to play. If he's unable to play again, backup WR Aaron Moorehead fills in.
Starting ORT Ryan Diem (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (sprained knee-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. He suffered the injury in their next to last game of the regular season at the Texans and missed the next two games but returned to the field last week.
Starting WLB Cato June (concussion-questionable) was cleared to practice and play Sunday. He's practiced the last two days and is expected to start.
Starting CB Nick Harper (ankle-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. He's been dealing with a sore ankle for about three weeks but has been able to play through it.
Starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start. Sanders missed 12 regular season games due to knee problems. He had a scope on his injured right knee back in late September. Sanders could be rested tomorrow as the team did with him last Friday.
It's looking like all of their injured players will be available for the game.
“Yesterday was a pretty good day for us. I think we got the work done that we needed to do. Most of our guys were able to work and practice. We rested a couple of guys routinely. That’s what we’ve done the last four or five weeks. Bob Sanders practiced and did well. Joseph Addai practiced and did well. It was a good start to the week," head coach Tony Dungy said Thursday.
Russ Grimm has been offered and has accepted the Steelers' head coaching position, a source in Pittsburgh confirmed late Saturday... ESPN and SI.com, Sports Illustrated's Web site, reported yesterday that Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin had been chosen to replace Cowher.....
In the same week the Bengals gave Carolina permission to interview quarterbacks coach Ken Zampese for its offensive coordinator job, they denied the Browns the same opportunity. The Bengals wouldn't let a talent like Zampese, whose knowledge of their offense probably is second only to coordinator Bob Bratkowski's, leave for a division rival. Panthers coach John Fox is believed to have completed outside and in-house interviews and is expected to let candidates know by Tuesday.....
Saturday, January 20, 2007
40 players granted special eligibility for draft
The National Football League announced the names of 40 players who have been granted special eligibility for the 2007 NFL Draft on April 28-29.
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/9941574
The East-West Shrine all-star game will be played in Houston later this evening at 7 PM. The Shrine game will be televised on ESPN. The Shrine game is the second most important all-star game after next week’s Senior Bowl game with rosters that include a number of interesting prospects for the 2007 draft including QB Chris Leak of national champion Florida. Leaf, for the record, will also be in Mobile next week for the Senior Bowl. Other players to watch in tonight’s game include WR Dallas Baker, also of Florida, Paul Williams of Fresno State and Jarrett Hicks of Texas Tech; Nebraska TE Matt Herian; Northern Illinois OT Doug Free; DEs Mkristo Bruce of Washington State and Dan Bazuin of Central Michigan and Wyoming safety John Wendling. And while the Senior Bowl is pretty much the preserve of major Division 1A schools, the Shrine game has a number of small school stars including a trio from Hampton including CB Travarous Bain, LB Justin Durant and RB Alonzo Coleman. The Shrine game also features a top sleeper prospect in TE Michael Allan of Whitworth. Also, as it has done for years, each Shrine team has a player from a Canadian university. This year’s Canadian duo is Waterloo OT Chris Best, who originally played at Duke, and Saskatchewan OT Jordan Rempel. In fact, the Shrine game has a distinct Canadian flavor as there is actually a third player from north of the border in Kansas RB Jon Cornish.....
Louisville QB Brian Brohm, who is expected to be one of the very top prospects at the 2008 draft after opting to pass on theis year’s draft and return to school, has undergone what is being described as minor surgery on his non-throwing shoulder. Brohm is expected to be ready when Louisville begins spring practice.....
http://www.nfl.com/news/story/9941574
The East-West Shrine all-star game will be played in Houston later this evening at 7 PM. The Shrine game will be televised on ESPN. The Shrine game is the second most important all-star game after next week’s Senior Bowl game with rosters that include a number of interesting prospects for the 2007 draft including QB Chris Leak of national champion Florida. Leaf, for the record, will also be in Mobile next week for the Senior Bowl. Other players to watch in tonight’s game include WR Dallas Baker, also of Florida, Paul Williams of Fresno State and Jarrett Hicks of Texas Tech; Nebraska TE Matt Herian; Northern Illinois OT Doug Free; DEs Mkristo Bruce of Washington State and Dan Bazuin of Central Michigan and Wyoming safety John Wendling. And while the Senior Bowl is pretty much the preserve of major Division 1A schools, the Shrine game has a number of small school stars including a trio from Hampton including CB Travarous Bain, LB Justin Durant and RB Alonzo Coleman. The Shrine game also features a top sleeper prospect in TE Michael Allan of Whitworth. Also, as it has done for years, each Shrine team has a player from a Canadian university. This year’s Canadian duo is Waterloo OT Chris Best, who originally played at Duke, and Saskatchewan OT Jordan Rempel. In fact, the Shrine game has a distinct Canadian flavor as there is actually a third player from north of the border in Kansas RB Jon Cornish.....
Louisville QB Brian Brohm, who is expected to be one of the very top prospects at the 2008 draft after opting to pass on theis year’s draft and return to school, has undergone what is being described as minor surgery on his non-throwing shoulder. Brohm is expected to be ready when Louisville begins spring practice.....
Friday, January 19, 2007
ICE STORM
Good job KSGF.
Underclassmen who filed paperwork with the NFL to be included in the 2007 draft have until 4 PM ET later this afternoon to rescind their applications as long as they have not yet signed with an agent or received any benefits.....
Star junior-to-be West Virginia RB Steve Slaton had surgery on his right wrist and will miss spring practice. A pin was inserted in the wrist during surgery this week. Despite missing some playing time this fall, the explosive Slaton still set a school record with 1,744 rushing yards was named a first team All-American.....
There does not appear to have been any official announcement to date, but we have received several reports that Texas A&M junior defensive lineman Jason Jack has applied to the NFL for early entry to the 2007 draft. The 6-3, 275-pound Jack had 21 tackles including three for loss as a 3-4 DE this fall.....
One of the occupational hazards of playing in the various post-season all-star games around the country is the possibility of injury. That’s what happened to Hawaii DE Ikaika Alama-Francis who tore a pectoral muscle in the first half of Sunday's Hula Bowl. Alama-Francis was examined in Honolulu after the game, and is getting a second opinion in San Francisco. Depending on the severity of the injury, the options range from non-surgical rehabilitation to several months of post-surgery recovery. And that means Alama-Francis that may not be able to participate in next month's Scouting Combine.....
The list of underclassmen declaring for the 2007 NFL draft got bigger, both literally and figuratively, when it was revealed that 310-pound Virginia junior DT Keenan Carter has applied to the league for early entry to the pros. While Carter has NFL size, he got limited playing time last fall for the Cavaliers posting just 12 tackles in ten games.
Underclassmen who filed paperwork with the NFL to be included in the 2007 draft have until 4 PM ET later this afternoon to rescind their applications as long as they have not yet signed with an agent or received any benefits.....
Star junior-to-be West Virginia RB Steve Slaton had surgery on his right wrist and will miss spring practice. A pin was inserted in the wrist during surgery this week. Despite missing some playing time this fall, the explosive Slaton still set a school record with 1,744 rushing yards was named a first team All-American.....
There does not appear to have been any official announcement to date, but we have received several reports that Texas A&M junior defensive lineman Jason Jack has applied to the NFL for early entry to the 2007 draft. The 6-3, 275-pound Jack had 21 tackles including three for loss as a 3-4 DE this fall.....
One of the occupational hazards of playing in the various post-season all-star games around the country is the possibility of injury. That’s what happened to Hawaii DE Ikaika Alama-Francis who tore a pectoral muscle in the first half of Sunday's Hula Bowl. Alama-Francis was examined in Honolulu after the game, and is getting a second opinion in San Francisco. Depending on the severity of the injury, the options range from non-surgical rehabilitation to several months of post-surgery recovery. And that means Alama-Francis that may not be able to participate in next month's Scouting Combine.....
The list of underclassmen declaring for the 2007 NFL draft got bigger, both literally and figuratively, when it was revealed that 310-pound Virginia junior DT Keenan Carter has applied to the league for early entry to the pros. While Carter has NFL size, he got limited playing time last fall for the Cavaliers posting just 12 tackles in ten games.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Confirm Draft Entry
For those holding their breaths in anticipation, both LSU junior QB Jamarcus Russell and Southern California WR Dwayne Jarrett did in fact confirm this afternoon that they would indeed be applying for admission to the 2007 NFL draft. Russell is expected to be a top 5 who could figure in the mix for the #1 player selected overall, while Jarrett is expected to carry at least a top 10-15 grade into next April's draft.....
Notre Dame doesn’t lose many underclassmen to the NFL draft, however, sources close to Irish junior RB Darius Walker are reporting that he will likely enter April's draft. Walker rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of the past couple of seasons.....
Oklahoma junior RB Adrian Peterson is expected to announce his intention to enter the NFL draft within the next 24 hours or so. Peterson has reportedly been interviewing prospective agents for several weeks including Jimmy Sexton, Drew Rosenhaus and Tom Condon. If he does enter the draft, Peterson is expected to be at least a top 5-10 prospect.....
Clemson junior CB C.J. Gaddis is the latest player to announce that he will be passing up his senior year and entering the 2007 NFL draft. The 6-0, 205-pound Gaddis had a total of 5 interceptions over the past couple of seasons.....
Sources at Florida are reporting that junior DE Jarvis Moss may have played his last game with the national champion Gators. After Florida's 41-14 win over Ohio State in the BCS title game Monday night, Moss indicated he was leaning toward entering this year's NFL Draft. He was quoted in the Gainesville Sun saying “I've got a pretty good idea what I'm going to do. It's really attractive to move on." The 6-5, 255-pound Moss likely improved his stock after he harassed Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith. Moss recorded two sacks and forced a fumble in the Florida win. Moss, in fact, is one of several Gators leaning toward leaving a year early as FS Reggie Nelson, WR Andre Caldwell and LB Brandon Siler are all considering entering the draft with Caldwell also indicating that he may also be gone. Nelson and Silar, on the othe hand, have still to decide. Nelson, for example, who could be among the first 4-5 defensive players off the board has enrolled in classes for current semester.....
Purdue junior WR Kyle Ingraham has reportedly left the team and is no longer enrolled at the university. No specific reason was given, but the 6-8 Ingraham has had some well-publicized classroom issues and was academically ineligible this season. Ingraham would have been a senior had he returned next season.....
Arizona State junior TE Zach Miller announced that he would be entering this year's NFL draft where he is expected to be the first player off the board at the position. This fall, Miller broke Arizona State’s career tight end receiving records set by Todd Heap, who also left for the NFL after his junior season; Heap was subsequently drafted by Baltimore in the first round of the 2001 draft.....
Louisville RB Michael Bush reportedly will announce later this morning that he will be entering the 2007 NFL draft. Bush, who broke his right leg in Louisville’s season-opener back in September, had the option of seeking a medical redshirt from the NCAA. The 6-2, 250-pound Bush ran for 1,100 yards and an NCAA-leading 23 touchdowns as a junior in 2005 and is expected to be a late-first, early second round prospect this coming April if his leg checks out. Meanwhile, there is still no word from Louisville junior QB Brian Brohm, a potential top 10 pick if he enters this year’s draft, on what his plans are.....
Meanwhile, record-setting Hawaii junior QB Colt Brennan says he is '50-50' on whether he enters this year's draft or returns to school for his senior season. In fact, Brennan may be waiting at least in part to see what Louisville's Brian Brohm does. If Brohm opts to return to school for his senior season, Brennan could very well move in to the #3 QB slot behind Brady Quinn of Notre Dame and LSU junior Jamarcus Russell, however, if Brohm does ultimately decide to go pro, Brennan could be pushed deeper into the draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday, January 15th to file papers with the NFL to be included in this year's draft class.....
Ohio State junior WR Ted Ginn, a potential top pick at the 2007 draft, returned the opening kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown in the BCS national championship game against Florida on Monday night, but injured his left leg soon after and did not return. There was no immediate word on the extent of Ginn's injury, he spent the second half on the sidelines on crutches with a big black boot on his left foot. Ginn is one of several top underclassmen the NFL is awaiting to hear from whether they intend to enter this year’s draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday afternoon to file paper work with the league to be eligible for this April’s draft.....
Pittsburgh junior CB Darrelle Revis, regarded as one of the nation's premier players at his position, has reportedly submitted the pertinent paperwork to the NFL to petition for entry into the 2007 draft.....
Michigan junior DT Alan Branch has confirmed that he is entering the upcoming NFL draft; Branch is expected to be one of the top 2-3 defensive players off the board this coming April.....
Georgia Tech junior WR Calvin Johnson announced earlier today that he will be giving up his final college season for the chance to be one of the top players selected at the 2007 draft.
Notre Dame doesn’t lose many underclassmen to the NFL draft, however, sources close to Irish junior RB Darius Walker are reporting that he will likely enter April's draft. Walker rushed for over 1,000 yards in each of the past couple of seasons.....
Oklahoma junior RB Adrian Peterson is expected to announce his intention to enter the NFL draft within the next 24 hours or so. Peterson has reportedly been interviewing prospective agents for several weeks including Jimmy Sexton, Drew Rosenhaus and Tom Condon. If he does enter the draft, Peterson is expected to be at least a top 5-10 prospect.....
Clemson junior CB C.J. Gaddis is the latest player to announce that he will be passing up his senior year and entering the 2007 NFL draft. The 6-0, 205-pound Gaddis had a total of 5 interceptions over the past couple of seasons.....
Sources at Florida are reporting that junior DE Jarvis Moss may have played his last game with the national champion Gators. After Florida's 41-14 win over Ohio State in the BCS title game Monday night, Moss indicated he was leaning toward entering this year's NFL Draft. He was quoted in the Gainesville Sun saying “I've got a pretty good idea what I'm going to do. It's really attractive to move on." The 6-5, 255-pound Moss likely improved his stock after he harassed Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith. Moss recorded two sacks and forced a fumble in the Florida win. Moss, in fact, is one of several Gators leaning toward leaving a year early as FS Reggie Nelson, WR Andre Caldwell and LB Brandon Siler are all considering entering the draft with Caldwell also indicating that he may also be gone. Nelson and Silar, on the othe hand, have still to decide. Nelson, for example, who could be among the first 4-5 defensive players off the board has enrolled in classes for current semester.....
Purdue junior WR Kyle Ingraham has reportedly left the team and is no longer enrolled at the university. No specific reason was given, but the 6-8 Ingraham has had some well-publicized classroom issues and was academically ineligible this season. Ingraham would have been a senior had he returned next season.....
Arizona State junior TE Zach Miller announced that he would be entering this year's NFL draft where he is expected to be the first player off the board at the position. This fall, Miller broke Arizona State’s career tight end receiving records set by Todd Heap, who also left for the NFL after his junior season; Heap was subsequently drafted by Baltimore in the first round of the 2001 draft.....
Louisville RB Michael Bush reportedly will announce later this morning that he will be entering the 2007 NFL draft. Bush, who broke his right leg in Louisville’s season-opener back in September, had the option of seeking a medical redshirt from the NCAA. The 6-2, 250-pound Bush ran for 1,100 yards and an NCAA-leading 23 touchdowns as a junior in 2005 and is expected to be a late-first, early second round prospect this coming April if his leg checks out. Meanwhile, there is still no word from Louisville junior QB Brian Brohm, a potential top 10 pick if he enters this year’s draft, on what his plans are.....
Meanwhile, record-setting Hawaii junior QB Colt Brennan says he is '50-50' on whether he enters this year's draft or returns to school for his senior season. In fact, Brennan may be waiting at least in part to see what Louisville's Brian Brohm does. If Brohm opts to return to school for his senior season, Brennan could very well move in to the #3 QB slot behind Brady Quinn of Notre Dame and LSU junior Jamarcus Russell, however, if Brohm does ultimately decide to go pro, Brennan could be pushed deeper into the draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday, January 15th to file papers with the NFL to be included in this year's draft class.....
Ohio State junior WR Ted Ginn, a potential top pick at the 2007 draft, returned the opening kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown in the BCS national championship game against Florida on Monday night, but injured his left leg soon after and did not return. There was no immediate word on the extent of Ginn's injury, he spent the second half on the sidelines on crutches with a big black boot on his left foot. Ginn is one of several top underclassmen the NFL is awaiting to hear from whether they intend to enter this year’s draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday afternoon to file paper work with the league to be eligible for this April’s draft.....
Pittsburgh junior CB Darrelle Revis, regarded as one of the nation's premier players at his position, has reportedly submitted the pertinent paperwork to the NFL to petition for entry into the 2007 draft.....
Michigan junior DT Alan Branch has confirmed that he is entering the upcoming NFL draft; Branch is expected to be one of the top 2-3 defensive players off the board this coming April.....
Georgia Tech junior WR Calvin Johnson announced earlier today that he will be giving up his final college season for the chance to be one of the top players selected at the 2007 draft.
Monday, January 08, 2007
CHAMPIONSHIP MONDAY
We aren’t big fans of the BCS, however, the tonight’s national championship game between #1 Ohio State and #2 Florida should be a good one with the best from the Big 10 battling the top team from the SEC. Both teams also have plenty of stars for pro scouts to be checking over in anticipation of the 2007 draft.....
January 8
BCS Championship Bowl, Phoenix; 8 PM ET; FOX
Florida (12-1) vs Ohio State (12-0)
Short of a real playoff, it probably doesn’t get much better than the best in the Big 10 versus the best in the SEC for the national championship. And both teams should also be well represented in the early rounds of the 2007 draft. The best draft storyline of tonight’s game, though, may involve veteran QBs Troy Smith (#10, 6-1, 215) of Ohio State and Florida’s Chris Leak (#12, 6-0, 212), who have both been terrific college QBs, but have yet to convince pro scouts that they can translate their skills to the next level. Smith, for example, ran away with this year’s Heisman Trophy, but still isn’t necessarily considered to be a top draft prospect, although he is close; same story for the Gators’ Leak, a four-year starter who doesn’t grade out all that well as a pro prospect because he lacks prototype pocket size and arm strength.
In fact, both teams probably have better pro prospects at other positions. Ohio State DT Quinn Pitcock (#90, 6-3, 295), for example, is a solid mid- to late first-round prospect for the upcoming draft, while explosive junior WR Ted Ginn (#7, 6-0, 180) could go even higher though he has had an up-and-down year to date. Indeed, Ginn was outproduced at times this fall by fellow junior WR Anthony Gonzalez (#11, 5-11, 195), although he lacks Ginns’ overall athleticism. Meanwhile, LB John Kerr (#52, 6-0, 235); DEs Jay Richardson (#99, 6-6, 275) and DE David Patterson (#97, 6-2, 285), FS Brandon Mitchell (#32, 6-3, 205); WR Roy Hall (#8, 6-2, 240); C Doug Datish (#50, 6-4, 295) and OG TJ Downing (#72, 6-4, 305) will all get some late-round consideration. As well, many of Ohio State’s better prospects though are underclassmen including juniors RB Antonio Pittman (#25, 5-10, 200) and OT Kirk Barton (#74, 6-5, 310) and sophomores like LB James Laurinaitis (#33, 6-3, 245), OT Alex Boone (#75, 6-8, 325), DE Vernon Gholston (#50, 6-4, 250), CB Malcom Jenkins (#2, 6-1, 200) and LB Marcus Freeman (#1, 6-2, 245)
Florida also has a potential top 10-15 prospect for this year’s draft in FS Reggie Nelson (#1, 6-0, 200), who should be one of the first defensive players off the borad this coming April if as expected he enters this year’s draft. Meanwhile, several other Gators including OLB Earl Everett (#30, 6-1, 235), junior MLB Brandon Siler (#40, 6-2, 235), DEs Ray McDonald (#95, 6-2, 285) and junior Jarvis Moss (#94, 6-6, 255), CB Reggie Lewis (#22, 5-9, 185) and WRs Dallas Baker (#81, 6-2, 205) and Andre Caldwell (#5, 6-0, 200), all have later first-day potential for the upcoming draft, while junior RB DeShawn Wynn (#21, 5-10, 232) had something of a breakout year after underachieving much of his career. The Gators also have one of the better punters in the country in Eric Wilbur (#0, 6-1, 205) who gets great air time. And for good measure, the Gators also have two of this year’s biggest impact freshman in college football in backup QB Ted Tebow (#15, 6-3, 230) and speedy WR Percy Harvin (#8, 5-10, 185).
As of today, underclassmen have just over a week to apply for admission to the 2007 draft as papers must be filed with the NFL by Monday, January 15th. And while a number of underclassmen announced yesterday, including juniors Jamarcus Russell of LSU and Arkansas DE Jamaal Anderson and South Carolina sophomore WR Sidney Rice, several top name juniors who are expected to have a big impact at this year’s draft are still to be heard from including QBs Brian Brohm of Louisville and Hawaii’s Colt Brennan; WRs Calvin Johnson of Georgia Tech and Southern Cal’s Dwayne Jarrett; Arizona State TE Zach Miller; DTs Alan Branch of Michigan and Glenn Dorsey of LSU; and CBs Darrelle Revis of Pitt and Arizona’s Antoine Cason. There are also several underclassmen in tonight’s BCS title game who won’t announce until after this evening’s game including Ohio State junior WRs Ted Ginn and Anthony Gonzalez and FS Reggie Nelson and LB Brandon Silar of Florida....
The mother of LSU junior QB JaMarcus Russell is denying published reports that her son has decided to forego his senior season and enter the 2007 NFL draft. At the same time, though, the school has reportedly scheduled a press conference for Wednesday afternoon for the formal announcement that Russell will indeed be headed to the draft where he could be in the mix to be the #1 player selected after leading the Tigers to a 41-14 victory against Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. As well, Russell has also reportedly already signed with agent an agent, although Eric Metz, the agent in question, has reportedly not confirmed that arrangement. Mreanwhile, there still is no indication whether Louisville head coach Bobby Petrino’s move to Atlanta of the NFL will have any impact one way or another on the decision of Cardinals’ QB Brian Brohm, yet another junior who could be a very high pick at the upcoming draft, whether to return to school next fall or enter the 2007 draft. It certainly has given Brohm a little something extra to think about however. Brohm’s father, for example, is being quoted as saying that the move by Petrino complicates the decision for his son. “It’s a variable that we weren’t really counting on” says Oscar Brohm. “It’s something we weren’t anticipating, but obviously something that will need to be taken into consideration. We have been talking about it this weekend, but no decision was made. We were hoping to make a decision early this week. But I’m just not sure now. I don’t know really what to expect about anything any more.” Indeed, reading between the lines it sounds like Brohm was at least leaning toward returning to school but now is rethinking. Stay tuned!
Oklahoma State junior WR Adarius Bowman, who had reportedly been considering entering the 2007 NFL draft, reportedly has joined the Cowboys’ basketball squad. The 6-4, 220 pound Bowman was named All-Big 12 first team on the football field last season after racking up 1,181 yards and 12 touchdowns.....
Miami junior LB Jon Beason has opted to enter the 2007 draft as has Arkansas junior CB Chris Houston. The 6-0, 225-pound Beason who has good speed could figure into the late opening day mix at this year's draft, while Houston is more a later round prospect.....
Atlanta has reportedly signed Louisville coach Bobby Petrino to a five-year, $24 million deal to coach the Falcons. Pertino replaces Jim Mora who was fired last week. What isn’t clear at this time is what, if any, will be the impact Petrino’s leaving on the decision several Cardinals’ underclassmen, including QB Brian Brohm, RB Michael Bush and WR Mario Urritia, are contemplating regarding entering the upcoming draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday to file paperwork with the NFL to be included in this year’s draft class.....
We incorrectly reported in an earlier story that former Texas RB Ramonce Taylor, who announced this weekend that he would be foregoing his final two years of college eligibility to enter the 2007 draft, had to serve some jail time prior to the draft after pleading guilty to a marijuana possession charge. In fact, Taylor is on a work release program and will not have to serve any jail time.....
South Carolina sophomore WR Sidney Rice reportedly is giving up his final two seasons to enter the NFL draft. In two seasons, Rice caught 23 TDs to set the school's career mark.
January 8
BCS Championship Bowl, Phoenix; 8 PM ET; FOX
Florida (12-1) vs Ohio State (12-0)
Short of a real playoff, it probably doesn’t get much better than the best in the Big 10 versus the best in the SEC for the national championship. And both teams should also be well represented in the early rounds of the 2007 draft. The best draft storyline of tonight’s game, though, may involve veteran QBs Troy Smith (#10, 6-1, 215) of Ohio State and Florida’s Chris Leak (#12, 6-0, 212), who have both been terrific college QBs, but have yet to convince pro scouts that they can translate their skills to the next level. Smith, for example, ran away with this year’s Heisman Trophy, but still isn’t necessarily considered to be a top draft prospect, although he is close; same story for the Gators’ Leak, a four-year starter who doesn’t grade out all that well as a pro prospect because he lacks prototype pocket size and arm strength.
In fact, both teams probably have better pro prospects at other positions. Ohio State DT Quinn Pitcock (#90, 6-3, 295), for example, is a solid mid- to late first-round prospect for the upcoming draft, while explosive junior WR Ted Ginn (#7, 6-0, 180) could go even higher though he has had an up-and-down year to date. Indeed, Ginn was outproduced at times this fall by fellow junior WR Anthony Gonzalez (#11, 5-11, 195), although he lacks Ginns’ overall athleticism. Meanwhile, LB John Kerr (#52, 6-0, 235); DEs Jay Richardson (#99, 6-6, 275) and DE David Patterson (#97, 6-2, 285), FS Brandon Mitchell (#32, 6-3, 205); WR Roy Hall (#8, 6-2, 240); C Doug Datish (#50, 6-4, 295) and OG TJ Downing (#72, 6-4, 305) will all get some late-round consideration. As well, many of Ohio State’s better prospects though are underclassmen including juniors RB Antonio Pittman (#25, 5-10, 200) and OT Kirk Barton (#74, 6-5, 310) and sophomores like LB James Laurinaitis (#33, 6-3, 245), OT Alex Boone (#75, 6-8, 325), DE Vernon Gholston (#50, 6-4, 250), CB Malcom Jenkins (#2, 6-1, 200) and LB Marcus Freeman (#1, 6-2, 245)
Florida also has a potential top 10-15 prospect for this year’s draft in FS Reggie Nelson (#1, 6-0, 200), who should be one of the first defensive players off the borad this coming April if as expected he enters this year’s draft. Meanwhile, several other Gators including OLB Earl Everett (#30, 6-1, 235), junior MLB Brandon Siler (#40, 6-2, 235), DEs Ray McDonald (#95, 6-2, 285) and junior Jarvis Moss (#94, 6-6, 255), CB Reggie Lewis (#22, 5-9, 185) and WRs Dallas Baker (#81, 6-2, 205) and Andre Caldwell (#5, 6-0, 200), all have later first-day potential for the upcoming draft, while junior RB DeShawn Wynn (#21, 5-10, 232) had something of a breakout year after underachieving much of his career. The Gators also have one of the better punters in the country in Eric Wilbur (#0, 6-1, 205) who gets great air time. And for good measure, the Gators also have two of this year’s biggest impact freshman in college football in backup QB Ted Tebow (#15, 6-3, 230) and speedy WR Percy Harvin (#8, 5-10, 185).
As of today, underclassmen have just over a week to apply for admission to the 2007 draft as papers must be filed with the NFL by Monday, January 15th. And while a number of underclassmen announced yesterday, including juniors Jamarcus Russell of LSU and Arkansas DE Jamaal Anderson and South Carolina sophomore WR Sidney Rice, several top name juniors who are expected to have a big impact at this year’s draft are still to be heard from including QBs Brian Brohm of Louisville and Hawaii’s Colt Brennan; WRs Calvin Johnson of Georgia Tech and Southern Cal’s Dwayne Jarrett; Arizona State TE Zach Miller; DTs Alan Branch of Michigan and Glenn Dorsey of LSU; and CBs Darrelle Revis of Pitt and Arizona’s Antoine Cason. There are also several underclassmen in tonight’s BCS title game who won’t announce until after this evening’s game including Ohio State junior WRs Ted Ginn and Anthony Gonzalez and FS Reggie Nelson and LB Brandon Silar of Florida....
The mother of LSU junior QB JaMarcus Russell is denying published reports that her son has decided to forego his senior season and enter the 2007 NFL draft. At the same time, though, the school has reportedly scheduled a press conference for Wednesday afternoon for the formal announcement that Russell will indeed be headed to the draft where he could be in the mix to be the #1 player selected after leading the Tigers to a 41-14 victory against Notre Dame in the Sugar Bowl. As well, Russell has also reportedly already signed with agent an agent, although Eric Metz, the agent in question, has reportedly not confirmed that arrangement. Mreanwhile, there still is no indication whether Louisville head coach Bobby Petrino’s move to Atlanta of the NFL will have any impact one way or another on the decision of Cardinals’ QB Brian Brohm, yet another junior who could be a very high pick at the upcoming draft, whether to return to school next fall or enter the 2007 draft. It certainly has given Brohm a little something extra to think about however. Brohm’s father, for example, is being quoted as saying that the move by Petrino complicates the decision for his son. “It’s a variable that we weren’t really counting on” says Oscar Brohm. “It’s something we weren’t anticipating, but obviously something that will need to be taken into consideration. We have been talking about it this weekend, but no decision was made. We were hoping to make a decision early this week. But I’m just not sure now. I don’t know really what to expect about anything any more.” Indeed, reading between the lines it sounds like Brohm was at least leaning toward returning to school but now is rethinking. Stay tuned!
Oklahoma State junior WR Adarius Bowman, who had reportedly been considering entering the 2007 NFL draft, reportedly has joined the Cowboys’ basketball squad. The 6-4, 220 pound Bowman was named All-Big 12 first team on the football field last season after racking up 1,181 yards and 12 touchdowns.....
Miami junior LB Jon Beason has opted to enter the 2007 draft as has Arkansas junior CB Chris Houston. The 6-0, 225-pound Beason who has good speed could figure into the late opening day mix at this year's draft, while Houston is more a later round prospect.....
Atlanta has reportedly signed Louisville coach Bobby Petrino to a five-year, $24 million deal to coach the Falcons. Pertino replaces Jim Mora who was fired last week. What isn’t clear at this time is what, if any, will be the impact Petrino’s leaving on the decision several Cardinals’ underclassmen, including QB Brian Brohm, RB Michael Bush and WR Mario Urritia, are contemplating regarding entering the upcoming draft. Underclassmen have until next Monday to file paperwork with the NFL to be included in this year’s draft class.....
We incorrectly reported in an earlier story that former Texas RB Ramonce Taylor, who announced this weekend that he would be foregoing his final two years of college eligibility to enter the 2007 draft, had to serve some jail time prior to the draft after pleading guilty to a marijuana possession charge. In fact, Taylor is on a work release program and will not have to serve any jail time.....
South Carolina sophomore WR Sidney Rice reportedly is giving up his final two seasons to enter the NFL draft. In two seasons, Rice caught 23 TDs to set the school's career mark.
Sunday, January 07, 2007
WILD CARD SUNDAY
As a result of last night’s thrilling wild card playoff win over Dallas, the 22nd thru 24th picks in the opening round of the 2007 were reshuffled. The Cowboys, which lost a heart-breaker 21-20 to Seattle, drops down a spot to #22, while Kansas City, which was knocked out of the playoffs earlier in the day in Indianapolis moves up a spot to #23. Meanwhile, the Patriots moved down two spots to #24 with a pick they obtained from Seattle. In the Chiefs loss to Indianapolis, Colts’ rookie RB, the team’s #1 pick at the 2006 draft, had almost 150 yards from scrimmage to propel Indianapolis into the next round. Addai, the 30th player taken this year, had 122 rushing yards on 25 carries and added another 26 yards on 7 receptions. In that game, rookie DBs Antoine Bethea of the Colts and the Chiefs Jarrad Page both had interceptions. In Seattle, Dallas undrafted rookie free agent WR Miles Austen returned a KO 93-yards for a TD but it was all for naught as Dallas botched a last minute chip-shot FG that would have given the Cowboys the lead.....
Just hours before players were supposed to show up for practice, the Las Vegas All-American all-star game has reportedly been cancelled. The game had been scheduled for next Saturday.....
Texas junior DT Frank Okam announced Friday he was staying for his senior season with the Longhorns. Okam entered the season rated as a potential top 10-15 prospect, however, did not have a particularly productive year with the Longhorns.....
Clemson junior OT Barry Richardson has confirmed his decision to stay in school for his senior season. Meanwhile, Tigers’ junior CB C.J. Gaddis reportedly is still thinking about whether he will stay in school or enter the 2007 draft. Gaddis reportedly has been told he grades out as a fourth-round pick by the NFL’s draft advisory committee.....
Tampa Bay head coach Jon Gruden and his San Francisco counterpart Mike Nolan and their staffs will coach at this year’s Senior Bowl week. Gruden and the Buccaneers’ staff will direct the North team, while Nolan and his assistants will lead the South for the second straight year. Meanwhile, Gruden and the Bucs will be back in Mobile for the second time in three years. Prior to the 2005 draft, Gruden coached the South which included former RB Carnell Williams, whom the Buccaneers ended up taking with the 5th pick overall later in the opening round of the 2005 draft.....
Floyd Reese reportedly has resigned as general manager of the Tennessee Titans after 21 years with the organization dating back to its days in Houston.....
For those who can't wait until Monday Night's BCS title, the 'other' Ohio school, the Ohio Bobcats will make their first bowl appearance in decades when they hook up with Southern Miss in the GMAC Bowl later tonight. While its not exactly the richest game of the bowl season in terms of 2007 draft talent there are several players worth a second look....
January 7
GMAC Bowl, Mobile; 8 PM ET; ESPN
Southern Mississippi (7-5) vs Ohio (8-4)
Can Ohio make it a ‘two-fer’ this year. The emerging Bobcats will be playing in a bowl game for the first time since 1968 when they take on Southern Miss in this year’s GMAC Bowl the final tune-up before Monday’s national title game between Florida and that ‘other’ team from Ohio. Now the question is whether Ohio will have its first positional player selected at an NFL draft since 1973. In fact, the Bobcats have a couple of players with at least next-level physical skills. MLB Matt Muncy (#50, 6-1, 235), for example, is one of the better all-around backers in college football; Muncy teams with steady fellow MLB Tyler Russ (#26, 6-0, 225) to give Ohio a very productive pair of mike backers. Meanwhile CB T.J. Wright (#3, 5-10, 175) is a ball-hawking cover corner with 13 career interceptions, although he lacks the physical skills of former star Bobcat CB Dion Byrum who wasn’t drafted this past April. The Bobcats also have a potential big-play WR Scott Mayle (#82, 6-0, 175) who has sub-4.3 speed, but he’s never had anyone at Ohio who could consistently get him the ball. Indeed, the Bobcats could be doomed this evening by one of the country’s most inefficient passing attacks, although the ground game makes up for a lot of that deficiency with star junior RB Kalvin McRae (#5, 5-10, 210), who has run for 1,200 each of the past couple of years, running behind an improved offensive line led by LT Matt Coppage (#78, 6-4, 295).
In fact, the GMAC Bowl could come down to a battle between a pair of young runners as Southern Miss’ go-to guy is freshman RB Damion Fletcher (#25, 5-10, 180), a scatback who scampered for 1,200 yards of his own this fall. And Fletcher will look to run behind veteran OGs George Batiste (#70, 6-5, 310) and Travis Cooley (#55, 6-3, 285); Batiste, in particular is a four-year starter who is this game’s best overall prospect for the 2007 draft. Meanwhile, USM also has a pretty good cover corner in Caleb Hendrix (#14, 5-9, 185), while sophomore TE Shawn Nelson (#89, 6-5, 235) is another emerging star.
Just hours before players were supposed to show up for practice, the Las Vegas All-American all-star game has reportedly been cancelled. The game had been scheduled for next Saturday.....
Texas junior DT Frank Okam announced Friday he was staying for his senior season with the Longhorns. Okam entered the season rated as a potential top 10-15 prospect, however, did not have a particularly productive year with the Longhorns.....
Clemson junior OT Barry Richardson has confirmed his decision to stay in school for his senior season. Meanwhile, Tigers’ junior CB C.J. Gaddis reportedly is still thinking about whether he will stay in school or enter the 2007 draft. Gaddis reportedly has been told he grades out as a fourth-round pick by the NFL’s draft advisory committee.....
Tampa Bay head coach Jon Gruden and his San Francisco counterpart Mike Nolan and their staffs will coach at this year’s Senior Bowl week. Gruden and the Buccaneers’ staff will direct the North team, while Nolan and his assistants will lead the South for the second straight year. Meanwhile, Gruden and the Bucs will be back in Mobile for the second time in three years. Prior to the 2005 draft, Gruden coached the South which included former RB Carnell Williams, whom the Buccaneers ended up taking with the 5th pick overall later in the opening round of the 2005 draft.....
Floyd Reese reportedly has resigned as general manager of the Tennessee Titans after 21 years with the organization dating back to its days in Houston.....
For those who can't wait until Monday Night's BCS title, the 'other' Ohio school, the Ohio Bobcats will make their first bowl appearance in decades when they hook up with Southern Miss in the GMAC Bowl later tonight. While its not exactly the richest game of the bowl season in terms of 2007 draft talent there are several players worth a second look....
January 7
GMAC Bowl, Mobile; 8 PM ET; ESPN
Southern Mississippi (7-5) vs Ohio (8-4)
Can Ohio make it a ‘two-fer’ this year. The emerging Bobcats will be playing in a bowl game for the first time since 1968 when they take on Southern Miss in this year’s GMAC Bowl the final tune-up before Monday’s national title game between Florida and that ‘other’ team from Ohio. Now the question is whether Ohio will have its first positional player selected at an NFL draft since 1973. In fact, the Bobcats have a couple of players with at least next-level physical skills. MLB Matt Muncy (#50, 6-1, 235), for example, is one of the better all-around backers in college football; Muncy teams with steady fellow MLB Tyler Russ (#26, 6-0, 225) to give Ohio a very productive pair of mike backers. Meanwhile CB T.J. Wright (#3, 5-10, 175) is a ball-hawking cover corner with 13 career interceptions, although he lacks the physical skills of former star Bobcat CB Dion Byrum who wasn’t drafted this past April. The Bobcats also have a potential big-play WR Scott Mayle (#82, 6-0, 175) who has sub-4.3 speed, but he’s never had anyone at Ohio who could consistently get him the ball. Indeed, the Bobcats could be doomed this evening by one of the country’s most inefficient passing attacks, although the ground game makes up for a lot of that deficiency with star junior RB Kalvin McRae (#5, 5-10, 210), who has run for 1,200 each of the past couple of years, running behind an improved offensive line led by LT Matt Coppage (#78, 6-4, 295).
In fact, the GMAC Bowl could come down to a battle between a pair of young runners as Southern Miss’ go-to guy is freshman RB Damion Fletcher (#25, 5-10, 180), a scatback who scampered for 1,200 yards of his own this fall. And Fletcher will look to run behind veteran OGs George Batiste (#70, 6-5, 310) and Travis Cooley (#55, 6-3, 285); Batiste, in particular is a four-year starter who is this game’s best overall prospect for the 2007 draft. Meanwhile, USM also has a pretty good cover corner in Caleb Hendrix (#14, 5-9, 185), while sophomore TE Shawn Nelson (#89, 6-5, 235) is another emerging star.
Friday, January 05, 2007
BACK TO WORK
Georgia juniors DE Charles Johnson and RB Danny Ware are both reportedly entering the 2007 draft. The 6-2, 265 Johnson led Georgia with 9.5 sacks, including two in Saturday's bowl game, and in fact often outplayed teammate DE Quentin Moses who is expected to be one of the first defensive players off the board at the upcoming draft. Ware, meanwhile, was a reserve with the Bulldogs. Georgia is also awaiting word from junior CB Paul Oliver as to whether he will be following Johnson and Ware into this year’s draft.....
California junior RB Marshawn Lynch has announced he will be skipping his senior season and entering the 2007 NFL draft. The 5-10, 223-pound Lynch was the Pac-10's offensive player of the year after rushing for a conference-best 1,356 yards and 11 touchdowns. Lynch is expected to be the second back drafted this coming April after Oklahoma junior Adrian Peterson. Whether he goes in the top ten or slips in to the middle of the first round though will be determined by how Lynch tests at pre-draft workouts this winter. While explosive Lynch hasn’t always been that durable. Plus, there have also been rumblings that he may not be the hardest worker out there.....
Tennessee junior WR Robert Meachem has reportedly his coaches, teammates and others at the school that he plans to declare for early entry into the NFL draft and will not return for his senior season. Meachem set the Vols’ single-season record with 1,298 receiving yards last season when he caught 71 passes, including 11 touchdowns. Meacham applied to the NFL draft advisory board for a projection of where he might go in the draft and reportedly received a grade ranging from late first round to early second round.....
Michigan junior DT Alan Branch has not said publicly yet whether he will be entering the 2007 draft however speculation continues to grow that he will indeed be in this year’s draft class where he is expected to be a top 5-10 pick. The latest evidence reported is that Branch has not enrolled for this semester's classes which began this week. Underclassmen have until January 15th to formally apply to the NFL for early entry to this year’s draft.....
Art Shell's second stint as coach of the Oakland Raiders has reportedly ended after just one season. Shell reportedly met with owner Al Davis on Thursday to discuss the future of the team following a 2-14 season that was the worst for Oakland since 1962. The team issued a statement after the meeting saying Shell would not return as coach for the final season of his contract, although Shell may remain with the team in another capacity. With that record the Raiders earned the #1 pick at this year’s draft, however, the change in coaches is not expected to have a huge impact on the direction the team takes with that pick as owner Davis makes most of the key decisions himself.....
Pittsburgh is expected to announce later today that long-time Steelers head coach Bill Cowher will be stepping down after 15 years on the job.....
Detroit Lions fans are no doubt dancing in the streets as we speak with word that team president Matt Millen will stay on in that capacity with the team. That means that Millen will once again be overseeing the Lions’ draft preparations as they prepare to make the 2nd pick overall at the 2007 draft. Just so the Lions’ faithful don’t get too giddy though, the team did announce that it was parting company with three assistants including defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson, offensive line coach Larry Beightol and special teams coach Chuck Priefer. In fact, This is a crucial period for many teams with high picks as front offices get reshuffled in the wake of disappointing seasons.
California junior RB Marshawn Lynch has announced he will be skipping his senior season and entering the 2007 NFL draft. The 5-10, 223-pound Lynch was the Pac-10's offensive player of the year after rushing for a conference-best 1,356 yards and 11 touchdowns. Lynch is expected to be the second back drafted this coming April after Oklahoma junior Adrian Peterson. Whether he goes in the top ten or slips in to the middle of the first round though will be determined by how Lynch tests at pre-draft workouts this winter. While explosive Lynch hasn’t always been that durable. Plus, there have also been rumblings that he may not be the hardest worker out there.....
Tennessee junior WR Robert Meachem has reportedly his coaches, teammates and others at the school that he plans to declare for early entry into the NFL draft and will not return for his senior season. Meachem set the Vols’ single-season record with 1,298 receiving yards last season when he caught 71 passes, including 11 touchdowns. Meacham applied to the NFL draft advisory board for a projection of where he might go in the draft and reportedly received a grade ranging from late first round to early second round.....
Michigan junior DT Alan Branch has not said publicly yet whether he will be entering the 2007 draft however speculation continues to grow that he will indeed be in this year’s draft class where he is expected to be a top 5-10 pick. The latest evidence reported is that Branch has not enrolled for this semester's classes which began this week. Underclassmen have until January 15th to formally apply to the NFL for early entry to this year’s draft.....
Art Shell's second stint as coach of the Oakland Raiders has reportedly ended after just one season. Shell reportedly met with owner Al Davis on Thursday to discuss the future of the team following a 2-14 season that was the worst for Oakland since 1962. The team issued a statement after the meeting saying Shell would not return as coach for the final season of his contract, although Shell may remain with the team in another capacity. With that record the Raiders earned the #1 pick at this year’s draft, however, the change in coaches is not expected to have a huge impact on the direction the team takes with that pick as owner Davis makes most of the key decisions himself.....
Pittsburgh is expected to announce later today that long-time Steelers head coach Bill Cowher will be stepping down after 15 years on the job.....
Detroit Lions fans are no doubt dancing in the streets as we speak with word that team president Matt Millen will stay on in that capacity with the team. That means that Millen will once again be overseeing the Lions’ draft preparations as they prepare to make the 2nd pick overall at the 2007 draft. Just so the Lions’ faithful don’t get too giddy though, the team did announce that it was parting company with three assistants including defensive coordinator Donnie Henderson, offensive line coach Larry Beightol and special teams coach Chuck Priefer. In fact, This is a crucial period for many teams with high picks as front offices get reshuffled in the wake of disappointing seasons.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
RAIDERS ON THE CLOCK
The Oakland Raiders will have the top pick at the 2007 draft which for the record is just 118 days away. The Raiders finished a miserable season losing 23-3 to the Jets this afternoon to drop to 2-14. That combined with a stunning win by Detroit gives the Raiders the #1 pick at this April's draft. Detroit would have ended up with #1 pick had they lost but stunned the Cowboys 39-31 right in Dallas. Meanwhile, Cleveland and Tampa Bay, both of whom had 4-12 records, will have the 3rd and 4th picks. The two teams' opponents actually had the same winning record, however, it is our understanding in such a case that any head-to-head games are used to decide the tie-break and the Buccaneers and Browns did play earlier in the year with Tampa Bay winning 22-7. As such we believe that should give the Browns the 3rd pick and the Buccaneers but we will try and confirm ASAP. Otherwise the two picks would be decided by a coin flip. No question though that Arizona will pick 5th, Washington 6th, Minnesota 7th with Houston, Miami and Atlanta rounding out the top 10.
* to be decided by coin flip
P final position to be determined by playoffs
1 Oakland
2 Detroit
*3 Cleveland
*4 Tampa Bay
5 Arizona
6 Washington
7 Minnesota
8 Houston
9 Miami
10 Atlanta
11 San Francisco
12 Buffalo
13 St. Louis
14 Carolina
15 Pittsburgh
16 Green Bay
17 Jacksonville
18 Cincinnati
19 Tennessee
P20 New York Giants
21 Denver
P22 New England (from Seattle)
P23 Dallas
P24 Kansas City
P25 New Orleans
P26 New York Jets
P27 Philadelphia
P28 New England
P29 Indianapolis
P30 Baltimore
P31 Chicago
P32 San Diego
While the New Year's Day bowls games are in the books, there are still a couple of games to go before we get to next week's BCS title game. Tonight its David versus Goliath as Wake Forest plays Louisville in the Orange Bowl.....
January 2
Orange Bowl, Miami; 8 PM ET; Fox
Louisville (11-1) vs Wake Forest (11-2)
The big question at the Orange Bow, other than whether Wake Forest can hang with one of the nation’s elite programs, is whether this is the final college game for Louisville junior QB Brian Brohm (#12, 6-4, 225), a potential top 5-10 pick if he opts to leave school early and enter the 2007 draft. And Brohm hopes to put a ‘number’ on the board against Wake Forest as a challenge for QBs Brady Quinn of Notre Dame and LSU junior Jamarcus Russell, the other top two QB prospects for the upcoming draft, when they battle against each other in the Sugar Bowl on Wednesday. Brohm is a prototype pro passer with good size, a strong arm and great pocket awareness. Brohm has an intriguing target in rangy sophomore WR Mario Urrittia (#7, 6-6, 230) who is draft eligible after redshirting as a true freshman. And even without star RB Michael Bush who is out for the year with a broken leg, Louisville has a pretty good running game featuring underrated RB Kolby Smith (#33, 5-10, 235) and sophomore RB George Stripling (#30, 5-11, 195). They run behind a huge offensive linemen anchored by veteran OG Kurt Quarteman (#76, 6-5, 335) and OT Renardo Foster (#79, 6-6, 325). The Louisville defense doesn’t get the press that the offensive but is very good in its own right, but stumpy NT Amobi Okoye (#91, 6-0, 315) is an emerging draft star in his own right; Okoye anchors a unit which also includes active LBs Nate Harris (#10, 6-0, 235) and Abe Brown (#43, 6-3, 235) and DBs William Gay (#21, 5-11, 185), a speedy cover corner, and safety Brandon Sharp (#35, 5-11, 200).
Wake Forest, of course, has been the best story in college football as the Demon Deacons, not known as anything close to a national power, has rolled to a 11 win season and a spot in the BCS while traditional ACC powers Miami, Florida State, Virginia Tech and Clemson watch from home. And Wake Forest has at least one top prospect for the upcoming draft in safety Josh Gattis (#22, 6-0, 215), while fellow safety Patrick Ghee (#30, 6-0, 210) and veteran OT Steve Vallos (#6-3, 295) are also solid. The Demon Deacons best prospect, though, may be junior MLB Jon Abbate (#40, 5-11, 245), who is a little on the short, but is a good athlete who can find the ball and deliver a pop when he gets there.....
Miami junior TE Greg Olsen will be entering the 2007 draft. Agent Drew Rosenhaus announced Olsen's decision one day after the Hurricanes completed their season by beating Nevada 21-20 in the MPC Computers Bowl. Olsen is rated as one of the top 1-2 TE prospects in this year's draft and is a possible late first- or early second-round pick this April.....
Gerogia juniors DE Charles Johnson and RB Danny Ware are both reportedly entering the 2007 draft. The 6-2, 265 Johnson led Georgia with 9.5 sacks, including two in Saturday's bowl game, and in fact often outplayed teammate DE Quentin Moses who is expected to be one of the first defensive players off the board at the upcoming drfat. Ware, meanwhile, was a reserve with the Bulldogs. Georgia is also awaiting word from junior CB Paul Oliver as to whether he will be following Johnson and Ware into this year’s draft.
* to be decided by coin flip
P final position to be determined by playoffs
1 Oakland
2 Detroit
*3 Cleveland
*4 Tampa Bay
5 Arizona
6 Washington
7 Minnesota
8 Houston
9 Miami
10 Atlanta
11 San Francisco
12 Buffalo
13 St. Louis
14 Carolina
15 Pittsburgh
16 Green Bay
17 Jacksonville
18 Cincinnati
19 Tennessee
P20 New York Giants
21 Denver
P22 New England (from Seattle)
P23 Dallas
P24 Kansas City
P25 New Orleans
P26 New York Jets
P27 Philadelphia
P28 New England
P29 Indianapolis
P30 Baltimore
P31 Chicago
P32 San Diego
While the New Year's Day bowls games are in the books, there are still a couple of games to go before we get to next week's BCS title game. Tonight its David versus Goliath as Wake Forest plays Louisville in the Orange Bowl.....
January 2
Orange Bowl, Miami; 8 PM ET; Fox
Louisville (11-1) vs Wake Forest (11-2)
The big question at the Orange Bow, other than whether Wake Forest can hang with one of the nation’s elite programs, is whether this is the final college game for Louisville junior QB Brian Brohm (#12, 6-4, 225), a potential top 5-10 pick if he opts to leave school early and enter the 2007 draft. And Brohm hopes to put a ‘number’ on the board against Wake Forest as a challenge for QBs Brady Quinn of Notre Dame and LSU junior Jamarcus Russell, the other top two QB prospects for the upcoming draft, when they battle against each other in the Sugar Bowl on Wednesday. Brohm is a prototype pro passer with good size, a strong arm and great pocket awareness. Brohm has an intriguing target in rangy sophomore WR Mario Urrittia (#7, 6-6, 230) who is draft eligible after redshirting as a true freshman. And even without star RB Michael Bush who is out for the year with a broken leg, Louisville has a pretty good running game featuring underrated RB Kolby Smith (#33, 5-10, 235) and sophomore RB George Stripling (#30, 5-11, 195). They run behind a huge offensive linemen anchored by veteran OG Kurt Quarteman (#76, 6-5, 335) and OT Renardo Foster (#79, 6-6, 325). The Louisville defense doesn’t get the press that the offensive but is very good in its own right, but stumpy NT Amobi Okoye (#91, 6-0, 315) is an emerging draft star in his own right; Okoye anchors a unit which also includes active LBs Nate Harris (#10, 6-0, 235) and Abe Brown (#43, 6-3, 235) and DBs William Gay (#21, 5-11, 185), a speedy cover corner, and safety Brandon Sharp (#35, 5-11, 200).
Wake Forest, of course, has been the best story in college football as the Demon Deacons, not known as anything close to a national power, has rolled to a 11 win season and a spot in the BCS while traditional ACC powers Miami, Florida State, Virginia Tech and Clemson watch from home. And Wake Forest has at least one top prospect for the upcoming draft in safety Josh Gattis (#22, 6-0, 215), while fellow safety Patrick Ghee (#30, 6-0, 210) and veteran OT Steve Vallos (#6-3, 295) are also solid. The Demon Deacons best prospect, though, may be junior MLB Jon Abbate (#40, 5-11, 245), who is a little on the short, but is a good athlete who can find the ball and deliver a pop when he gets there.....
Miami junior TE Greg Olsen will be entering the 2007 draft. Agent Drew Rosenhaus announced Olsen's decision one day after the Hurricanes completed their season by beating Nevada 21-20 in the MPC Computers Bowl. Olsen is rated as one of the top 1-2 TE prospects in this year's draft and is a possible late first- or early second-round pick this April.....
Gerogia juniors DE Charles Johnson and RB Danny Ware are both reportedly entering the 2007 draft. The 6-2, 265 Johnson led Georgia with 9.5 sacks, including two in Saturday's bowl game, and in fact often outplayed teammate DE Quentin Moses who is expected to be one of the first defensive players off the board at the upcoming drfat. Ware, meanwhile, was a reserve with the Bulldogs. Georgia is also awaiting word from junior CB Paul Oliver as to whether he will be following Johnson and Ware into this year’s draft.
Monday, January 01, 2007
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Its New Year's Day and that means a heavy dose of college football games featuring many top prospects for the upcoming draft.....
January 1
Outback Bowl, Boise; 11 AM ET; ESPN
Tennessee (9-3) vs Penn State (8-4)
Star your New Year’s Day on the right foot with a great match-up between traditional powers Tennessee and Penn State in the Outback Bowl. If nothing else, the game offers a chance to compare of two of the top OTs in the 2007 draft class in the Volunteers’ Arron Sears (#76, 6-4, 335) and Levi Brown (#67, 6-5, 330) of Penn State both of whom are solid first-round prospects for the upcoming draft. Indeed, the burly Brown could go as high as the top 10-15 picks with a solid series of workouts this winter. Tennessee has a second first-round candidate in junior WR Robert Meacham (#3, 6-2, 205), an outstanding athlete who finally played up to his physical potential this fall and appears headed for this year’s draft. In fact, Meacham heads a talented Volunteers’ receiver corps which also includes WR Jayson Swain (#1, 6-0, 205), while FB Cory Anderson (#45, 6-2, 255) is one of the better lead-blockers in the country. Then there is junior QB Eril Ainge (#10, 6-5, 220) who had a breakout year and should figure among the top prospects at the position in 2008. On the other side of the ball DE Turk McBride (#90, 6-4, 275) is one of the rising stars along the defensive front while the Volunteers also have plenty of speed in the secondary including CB Jonathan Wade (#4, 6-0, 195) and DB Antwan Stewart (#24, 6-0, 195), both of whom have track speed.
There is a similar story over at Penn State where LB Paul Poluszny (#31, 6-1, 240) could join teammate Brown in this year’s opening round. Poluszny started the year slowly after undergoing off-season surgery to repair a knee injured last year’s bowl. If healthy, Poluszny is an instinctive, aggressive backer although he lacks explosive pure speed. And in what seems fitting at ‘LB’ Poluszny heads a strong LB corps which also includes star junior Dan Connor (#40, 6-3, 225) and Tim Shaw (#20, 6-1, 235). They all work behind a defensive line anchored by steady all-around DT Jay Alford (#13, 6-2, 290). Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions’ offense has something of a rising star in RB Tony Hunt (#26, 6-0, 230).
Cotton Bowl, Dallas; 11:30 AM ET; Fox
Nebraska (9-4) vs Auburn (10-2)
The only thing missing from this year’s Cotton Bowl is a team from Texas. There certainly will be no shortage of talent on the field, though, when Nebraska battles Auburn. The Tigers, for example, will be lead by explosive RB Kenny Irons (#23, 5-11, 205), arguably the top senior back in the country who could be a top 20-25 pick at the 2007 draft. Irons will run behind a huge offensive line anchored by emerging star OGs Ben Grubbs (#69, 6-3, 305) and emerging junior Tim Duckworth (#76, 6-2, 310), while WR Courtney Taylor (#86, 6-1, 205) is a solid second-tier receiver prospect. On the other side of the ball, physical DB Will Herring (#35, 6-2, 225), who could actually play a lot at OLB this fall, heads a very aggressive defense which also include DEs Marquies Gunn (#48, 6-3, 255) and junior Quentin Groves (#54, 6-3, 250), along with speedy CB David Irons (#4, 6-0, 190), the RB's brother. The Tigers will also feature one of the better punters in the country in Kody Bliss (#30, 5-11, 180) who averaged almost 45 yards per boot last fall.
While Auburn has been a bowl fixture in recent years, Nebraska marks its return to college football’s elite with today’s Cotton Bowl appearance. These aren’t your grandfather’s Huskers, though, who traditionally ran the ball down everybodies throats. Under former Oakland head coach Bill Callaghan, Nebraska has been re-invented as a wide-open passing program, this year led by QB Zac Taylor (#13, 6-1, 210) who threw for 24 TDs this fall against only 4 picks. Taylor also has a top target in TE Matt Herian (#11, 6-5, 245) who has made a nice recovery from a devastating leg injury, while C Kurt Mann (#50, 6-3, 290) anchors a steady offensive line and FB Dane Todd (#41, 5-11, 235) is a typical Nebraska lead blocker. The Huskers best prospects for 2007, though, are on the defensive side of the ball starting with two-way DE Adam Carriker (#90, 6-5, 295), a first day prospect for the upcoming draft. Carriker combines with DE Jay Moore (#44, 6-4, 280) to give Nebraska a solid set of bookends on the defensive front, while OLB Stewart Bradley (#34, 6-3, 245) is also a good one.
Gator Bowl, Tampa; 1 PM ET; CBS
Georgia Tech (9-4) vs West Virginia (10-2)
Get those clickers handy because both of today’s 1 PM games feature a player with the potential to be the #1 pick at the 2007 draft. Georgia Tech junior WR Calvin Johnson (#21, 6-4, 235), whose Ramblin’ Wrecksters tangle with West Virginia in the Gator Bowl, for example, combines freakish size and speed and is a lock to be a top 5 pick this year if he opts to enter the upcoming draft; that is if he doesn’t go first overall. Johnson, though, will have to face the Mountaineers without QB Reggie Ball who is academically ineligible. Meanwhile, other Georgia Tech players to watch on a very young team include OT Mansfield Wrotto (#68, 6-3, 310), a converted defensive lineman, DT Joe Anoai (#96, 6-2, 285), LB KaMichael Hall (#35, 6-0, 235), and DB Joe Gaston (#37, 5-11, 195).
West Virginia likely won’t have anywhere near as big an impact at the 2007 draft as Georgia Tech but give the Mountaineers time as the team’s stars are QB Pat White (#5, 6-1, 195) and RB Steve Slaton (#10, 5-9, 195), a pair of explosive sophomores each of whom could contend for the Heisman Trophy next fall. The Mountaineers, though, do have one of the better interior offensive lineman in the upcoming draft class in C Dan Mozes (#76, 6-3, 295), who is one of the most accomplished pivots in the country, although he isn’t very big. Meanwhile LB Ken “Boo” McLee (#43, 6-1, 255) is a good-sized weakside backer who can make plays in both directions. The Mountaineers also have a number of solid second-tier prospects, especially on defense including LB Jay Henry (#42, 6-2, 225), DE Craig Wilson (#66, 6-1, 290), and SS Eric Weeks (#41, 6-1, 210), while OG Jeremy Sheffey (#65, 6-3, 295) and WR Brandon Myles (#7, 6-3, 190) are solid collegiate players on the other side of the ball.
Capitol One, Orlando; 1 PM ET; ABC
Wisconsin (11-1) vs Arkansas (10-3)
Draft watchers will have a tough time choosing between the Gator Bowl and the Capitol One match-up at the same time between Wisconsin and Arkansas which features the Badgers All-American OT Joe Thomas (#72, 6-7, 310), who appears headed to a top 2-3 selection at the 2007 draft. At the same time, though, this game should also feature a pretty good battle between two of the very best young backs in the country in Arkansas super sophomore RB Darren McFadden (#5, 6-1, 210), arguably the best player in the country period this season, and Wisconsin freshman sensation P.J. Hill (#39, 5-10, 242). In fact, both of these teams are relatively young, but the Badgers do have a number of solid second-tier prospects including veteran QB John Stocco (#7, 6-2, 210), along with MLB Mark Zalewski (#41, 6-1, 235), DE Joe Monty (#95, 6-1, 260) and DBs Rod Rogers (#22, 6-1, 190) and Joe Stellmacher (#16, 6-1, 220). Meanwhile, OLB Sam Olajabutu (#24, 5-9, 225) is probably the Razorbacks best senior prospect; he's certainly the most interesting . Olajabutu is very short but can run to the ball. Other Hogs to watch include seniors OTs Tony Ugoh (#66, 6-5, 305) and Zac Tubbs (#69, 6-5, 340), OG Stephen Parker (#74, 6-3, 310), stumpy NT Keith Jackson (#99, 6-0, 300), MLB Desmond Sims (#23, 6-2, 225), SS Randy Kelly (#6-0, 5-11, 195), and P Jacob Skinner (#14, 6-2, 210), while DE Jamaal Anderson (#92, 6-5, 270) is another top junior to keep an eye on.
Rose Bowl, Pasadena; 5 PM ET; ABC
Southern California (10-2) vs Michigan (11-1)
It did indeed turn out to be something of a rebuilding year at Southern California where the Trojans stumbled a couple of times on the way to what would have been a third straight national title game. Still, the Trojans should have a major impact on the upcoming draft if star junior WR Dwayne Jarrett (#8, 6-4, 210), who appears to be a lock to be a top 15 pick this year, leaves school early. The good news for the Trojans though is that just about all their other outstanding juniors including OT Sam Baker (#79, 6-5, 305), DE Lawrence Jackson (#96, 6-5, 265), LB Keith Rivers (#55, 6-3, 220) and DT Sedrick Ellis (#49, 6-1, 290) have all indicated they will be returning for their senior seasons. So will junior QB John David Booty (#10, 6-3, 195) who has done a nice job after taking over from Matt Leinart but still needs more seasoning. Another junior, RB Chauncey Washington (#23, 6-0, 205), could be a bit of a sleeper at the 2007 draft if he leaves school early which he very well might after struggling with the books the past several years. Meanwhile, USC will also send several seniors to this year’s draft including veteran WR Steve Smith (#2, 6-2, 195), C Ryan Kalil (#67, 6-3, 286), and LBs Dallas Sartz (#44, 6-5, 220) and LB Oscar Lua (#45, 6-1, 240).
As talented as is Southern California, Michigan could actually have a bigger impact at the 2007 draft. Indeed, the Wolverines have a couple of top ten prospects in CB Leon Hall (#29, 5-10, 195), who could be the first corner off the board this year, and massive run-stuffing junior DT Alan Branch (#80, 6-5, 330), who is inching closer to a top 5-10 pick. Like the Trojans, though, most of Michigan’s other top juniors including junior OT Jake Long (#77, 6-6, 320), QB Chad Henne (#7, 6-2, 225), and RB Mike Hart (#20, 5-9, 200) will be back in maize next fall. Meanwhile, DE LaMarr Woodley (#56, 6-2, 270), LBs Prescott Burgess (#6, 6-3, 245) and David Harris (#45, 6-2, 242), and KR Steve Breaston (#15, 6-0, 85) are solid late first-day candidates. And there’s plenty of depth in the Michigan draft class which includes veterans like MLB, DBs Willis Barringer (#19, 6-0, 205) and Brandent Englemon (#31, 5-11, 205), TE Tyler Ecker (#89, 6-5, 250), and PK Garrett Rivas (#38, 5-9, 215) who are rated as possible second-day prospects.
Fiesta Bowl, Phoenix; 8 PM ET; Fox
Oklahoma (11-2) vs Boise State (12-0)
New Year’s Day wraps up with a really fascinating match-up in the Fiesta Bowl where traditional power Oklahoma takes on traditional pygmy Boise State. And both the Sooners and the Broncos are happy enough to be in Phoenix, however, both feel they have a claim to be in that other Arizona BCS game, next Monday’s national title contest. The Sooners, for example, lost twice but one of those was a disputed loss at Oregon after which officials admit they blew a late call that would have given Oklahoma that win. Meanwhile, the unheralded Broncos were Division 1A’s only unbeaten team other than Ohio State, but as a WAC team don’t much national respect, although they did beat Oregon State, the same Oregon State that ended Southern Cal’s unbeaten run earlier this fall.
The other big story at this year’s Fiesta Bowl will be the return to action of Oklahoma junior RB Adrian Peterson (#28, 6-0, 220). Peterson, who is expected to be a top 5 pick at the 2007 draft, hasn’t played since October after breaking his collarbone. The Fiesta Bowl, in fact, could evolve into a battle between two of the best young backs in college football as Boise State sophomore Ian Johnson (#41, 5-10, 195) emerged as rising superstar this fall as he ran for over 1,600 yards and scored 24 times.
Both teams, though, also have some very good seniors. The Sooners best senior pro prospect, for example, is OLB Rufus Alexander (#42, 6-0, 230), who could sneak into the late-first round this coming April. The Sooners also have a top trio of excellent edge rushers in DEs C.J. Ah You (#99, 6-4, 275), Calvin Thibodeux (#58, 6-1, 255) and Larry Birdine (#92, 6-2, 260). The Sooners also have a very athletic LT in Chris Messner (#79, 6-5, 280) although he isn't very big.
Boise State has quietly emerged as one of the better programs in the country in the past decade winning an average of over 10 games per year in the last seven seasons. However, that success hasn’t translated to a lot of success on draft day. Indeed, when Green Bay selected former Broncos’ OT Darren Colledge in the middle of the second round this past April, it represented the first time in twenty years that Boise State had a player taken on the first day of the draft. Unfortunately, the Broncos aren’t likely to dramatically reverse that trend this fall, but will be busy enough this coming April with a deep draft class that includes QB Jared Zabransky (#5, 6-2, 2050), WR Legedu Naanee (#4, 6-2, 230), TE Derel Schouman (#91, 6-2, 235), FB Brad Lau (#34, 5-11, 245), MLB Korey Hall (#25, 6-1, 230), DB Gerald Alexander (#2, 6-0, 205), DT Andrew Browning (#57, 6-0, 280), and PK Anthony Montgomery (#47, 6-1, 210). Zabransky, for example, has been one of the more productive passers in the country the past couple of seasons, but still throws far too interceptions, while Hall is a prototype tackling machine, but isn’t overly big or fast. Meanwhile, while the afore-mentioned Colledge had pro scouts excited, they positively drool when checking out talented Boise State sophomore offensive linemen Ryan Clady (#79, 6-6, 320), a very athletic LT prospect, and road-grading Canadian OG Andrew Woodruff (#67, 6-3, 330).....
Underclassmen still have a couple of weeks to formally apply to the NFL for entry to this year's draft, however, it does not appear that Kentucky junior QB Andre Woodson is going anywhere at least this winter. The 6-5 Woodson, who led the Wildcats to an upset over Clemson at the Music City Bowl over the weekend stated after the game that he would be back at school next fall.....
Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in downtown Denver early Monday morning, police said. Williams, a second-round pick in the 2005 draft out of Oklahoma State, started nine games as a rookie due to injuries. This season, he took over as the starter for Lenny Walls alongside Champ Bailey, and was second on the team with four interceptions and tied for third with 86 tackles. We met Darrent at the Senior Bowl prior to the 2005 draft and found him to be a thoughtful young man with a bright future. Our condolences go his family.
January 1
Outback Bowl, Boise; 11 AM ET; ESPN
Tennessee (9-3) vs Penn State (8-4)
Star your New Year’s Day on the right foot with a great match-up between traditional powers Tennessee and Penn State in the Outback Bowl. If nothing else, the game offers a chance to compare of two of the top OTs in the 2007 draft class in the Volunteers’ Arron Sears (#76, 6-4, 335) and Levi Brown (#67, 6-5, 330) of Penn State both of whom are solid first-round prospects for the upcoming draft. Indeed, the burly Brown could go as high as the top 10-15 picks with a solid series of workouts this winter. Tennessee has a second first-round candidate in junior WR Robert Meacham (#3, 6-2, 205), an outstanding athlete who finally played up to his physical potential this fall and appears headed for this year’s draft. In fact, Meacham heads a talented Volunteers’ receiver corps which also includes WR Jayson Swain (#1, 6-0, 205), while FB Cory Anderson (#45, 6-2, 255) is one of the better lead-blockers in the country. Then there is junior QB Eril Ainge (#10, 6-5, 220) who had a breakout year and should figure among the top prospects at the position in 2008. On the other side of the ball DE Turk McBride (#90, 6-4, 275) is one of the rising stars along the defensive front while the Volunteers also have plenty of speed in the secondary including CB Jonathan Wade (#4, 6-0, 195) and DB Antwan Stewart (#24, 6-0, 195), both of whom have track speed.
There is a similar story over at Penn State where LB Paul Poluszny (#31, 6-1, 240) could join teammate Brown in this year’s opening round. Poluszny started the year slowly after undergoing off-season surgery to repair a knee injured last year’s bowl. If healthy, Poluszny is an instinctive, aggressive backer although he lacks explosive pure speed. And in what seems fitting at ‘LB’ Poluszny heads a strong LB corps which also includes star junior Dan Connor (#40, 6-3, 225) and Tim Shaw (#20, 6-1, 235). They all work behind a defensive line anchored by steady all-around DT Jay Alford (#13, 6-2, 290). Meanwhile, the Nittany Lions’ offense has something of a rising star in RB Tony Hunt (#26, 6-0, 230).
Cotton Bowl, Dallas; 11:30 AM ET; Fox
Nebraska (9-4) vs Auburn (10-2)
The only thing missing from this year’s Cotton Bowl is a team from Texas. There certainly will be no shortage of talent on the field, though, when Nebraska battles Auburn. The Tigers, for example, will be lead by explosive RB Kenny Irons (#23, 5-11, 205), arguably the top senior back in the country who could be a top 20-25 pick at the 2007 draft. Irons will run behind a huge offensive line anchored by emerging star OGs Ben Grubbs (#69, 6-3, 305) and emerging junior Tim Duckworth (#76, 6-2, 310), while WR Courtney Taylor (#86, 6-1, 205) is a solid second-tier receiver prospect. On the other side of the ball, physical DB Will Herring (#35, 6-2, 225), who could actually play a lot at OLB this fall, heads a very aggressive defense which also include DEs Marquies Gunn (#48, 6-3, 255) and junior Quentin Groves (#54, 6-3, 250), along with speedy CB David Irons (#4, 6-0, 190), the RB's brother. The Tigers will also feature one of the better punters in the country in Kody Bliss (#30, 5-11, 180) who averaged almost 45 yards per boot last fall.
While Auburn has been a bowl fixture in recent years, Nebraska marks its return to college football’s elite with today’s Cotton Bowl appearance. These aren’t your grandfather’s Huskers, though, who traditionally ran the ball down everybodies throats. Under former Oakland head coach Bill Callaghan, Nebraska has been re-invented as a wide-open passing program, this year led by QB Zac Taylor (#13, 6-1, 210) who threw for 24 TDs this fall against only 4 picks. Taylor also has a top target in TE Matt Herian (#11, 6-5, 245) who has made a nice recovery from a devastating leg injury, while C Kurt Mann (#50, 6-3, 290) anchors a steady offensive line and FB Dane Todd (#41, 5-11, 235) is a typical Nebraska lead blocker. The Huskers best prospects for 2007, though, are on the defensive side of the ball starting with two-way DE Adam Carriker (#90, 6-5, 295), a first day prospect for the upcoming draft. Carriker combines with DE Jay Moore (#44, 6-4, 280) to give Nebraska a solid set of bookends on the defensive front, while OLB Stewart Bradley (#34, 6-3, 245) is also a good one.
Gator Bowl, Tampa; 1 PM ET; CBS
Georgia Tech (9-4) vs West Virginia (10-2)
Get those clickers handy because both of today’s 1 PM games feature a player with the potential to be the #1 pick at the 2007 draft. Georgia Tech junior WR Calvin Johnson (#21, 6-4, 235), whose Ramblin’ Wrecksters tangle with West Virginia in the Gator Bowl, for example, combines freakish size and speed and is a lock to be a top 5 pick this year if he opts to enter the upcoming draft; that is if he doesn’t go first overall. Johnson, though, will have to face the Mountaineers without QB Reggie Ball who is academically ineligible. Meanwhile, other Georgia Tech players to watch on a very young team include OT Mansfield Wrotto (#68, 6-3, 310), a converted defensive lineman, DT Joe Anoai (#96, 6-2, 285), LB KaMichael Hall (#35, 6-0, 235), and DB Joe Gaston (#37, 5-11, 195).
West Virginia likely won’t have anywhere near as big an impact at the 2007 draft as Georgia Tech but give the Mountaineers time as the team’s stars are QB Pat White (#5, 6-1, 195) and RB Steve Slaton (#10, 5-9, 195), a pair of explosive sophomores each of whom could contend for the Heisman Trophy next fall. The Mountaineers, though, do have one of the better interior offensive lineman in the upcoming draft class in C Dan Mozes (#76, 6-3, 295), who is one of the most accomplished pivots in the country, although he isn’t very big. Meanwhile LB Ken “Boo” McLee (#43, 6-1, 255) is a good-sized weakside backer who can make plays in both directions. The Mountaineers also have a number of solid second-tier prospects, especially on defense including LB Jay Henry (#42, 6-2, 225), DE Craig Wilson (#66, 6-1, 290), and SS Eric Weeks (#41, 6-1, 210), while OG Jeremy Sheffey (#65, 6-3, 295) and WR Brandon Myles (#7, 6-3, 190) are solid collegiate players on the other side of the ball.
Capitol One, Orlando; 1 PM ET; ABC
Wisconsin (11-1) vs Arkansas (10-3)
Draft watchers will have a tough time choosing between the Gator Bowl and the Capitol One match-up at the same time between Wisconsin and Arkansas which features the Badgers All-American OT Joe Thomas (#72, 6-7, 310), who appears headed to a top 2-3 selection at the 2007 draft. At the same time, though, this game should also feature a pretty good battle between two of the very best young backs in the country in Arkansas super sophomore RB Darren McFadden (#5, 6-1, 210), arguably the best player in the country period this season, and Wisconsin freshman sensation P.J. Hill (#39, 5-10, 242). In fact, both of these teams are relatively young, but the Badgers do have a number of solid second-tier prospects including veteran QB John Stocco (#7, 6-2, 210), along with MLB Mark Zalewski (#41, 6-1, 235), DE Joe Monty (#95, 6-1, 260) and DBs Rod Rogers (#22, 6-1, 190) and Joe Stellmacher (#16, 6-1, 220). Meanwhile, OLB Sam Olajabutu (#24, 5-9, 225) is probably the Razorbacks best senior prospect; he's certainly the most interesting . Olajabutu is very short but can run to the ball. Other Hogs to watch include seniors OTs Tony Ugoh (#66, 6-5, 305) and Zac Tubbs (#69, 6-5, 340), OG Stephen Parker (#74, 6-3, 310), stumpy NT Keith Jackson (#99, 6-0, 300), MLB Desmond Sims (#23, 6-2, 225), SS Randy Kelly (#6-0, 5-11, 195), and P Jacob Skinner (#14, 6-2, 210), while DE Jamaal Anderson (#92, 6-5, 270) is another top junior to keep an eye on.
Rose Bowl, Pasadena; 5 PM ET; ABC
Southern California (10-2) vs Michigan (11-1)
It did indeed turn out to be something of a rebuilding year at Southern California where the Trojans stumbled a couple of times on the way to what would have been a third straight national title game. Still, the Trojans should have a major impact on the upcoming draft if star junior WR Dwayne Jarrett (#8, 6-4, 210), who appears to be a lock to be a top 15 pick this year, leaves school early. The good news for the Trojans though is that just about all their other outstanding juniors including OT Sam Baker (#79, 6-5, 305), DE Lawrence Jackson (#96, 6-5, 265), LB Keith Rivers (#55, 6-3, 220) and DT Sedrick Ellis (#49, 6-1, 290) have all indicated they will be returning for their senior seasons. So will junior QB John David Booty (#10, 6-3, 195) who has done a nice job after taking over from Matt Leinart but still needs more seasoning. Another junior, RB Chauncey Washington (#23, 6-0, 205), could be a bit of a sleeper at the 2007 draft if he leaves school early which he very well might after struggling with the books the past several years. Meanwhile, USC will also send several seniors to this year’s draft including veteran WR Steve Smith (#2, 6-2, 195), C Ryan Kalil (#67, 6-3, 286), and LBs Dallas Sartz (#44, 6-5, 220) and LB Oscar Lua (#45, 6-1, 240).
As talented as is Southern California, Michigan could actually have a bigger impact at the 2007 draft. Indeed, the Wolverines have a couple of top ten prospects in CB Leon Hall (#29, 5-10, 195), who could be the first corner off the board this year, and massive run-stuffing junior DT Alan Branch (#80, 6-5, 330), who is inching closer to a top 5-10 pick. Like the Trojans, though, most of Michigan’s other top juniors including junior OT Jake Long (#77, 6-6, 320), QB Chad Henne (#7, 6-2, 225), and RB Mike Hart (#20, 5-9, 200) will be back in maize next fall. Meanwhile, DE LaMarr Woodley (#56, 6-2, 270), LBs Prescott Burgess (#6, 6-3, 245) and David Harris (#45, 6-2, 242), and KR Steve Breaston (#15, 6-0, 85) are solid late first-day candidates. And there’s plenty of depth in the Michigan draft class which includes veterans like MLB, DBs Willis Barringer (#19, 6-0, 205) and Brandent Englemon (#31, 5-11, 205), TE Tyler Ecker (#89, 6-5, 250), and PK Garrett Rivas (#38, 5-9, 215) who are rated as possible second-day prospects.
Fiesta Bowl, Phoenix; 8 PM ET; Fox
Oklahoma (11-2) vs Boise State (12-0)
New Year’s Day wraps up with a really fascinating match-up in the Fiesta Bowl where traditional power Oklahoma takes on traditional pygmy Boise State. And both the Sooners and the Broncos are happy enough to be in Phoenix, however, both feel they have a claim to be in that other Arizona BCS game, next Monday’s national title contest. The Sooners, for example, lost twice but one of those was a disputed loss at Oregon after which officials admit they blew a late call that would have given Oklahoma that win. Meanwhile, the unheralded Broncos were Division 1A’s only unbeaten team other than Ohio State, but as a WAC team don’t much national respect, although they did beat Oregon State, the same Oregon State that ended Southern Cal’s unbeaten run earlier this fall.
The other big story at this year’s Fiesta Bowl will be the return to action of Oklahoma junior RB Adrian Peterson (#28, 6-0, 220). Peterson, who is expected to be a top 5 pick at the 2007 draft, hasn’t played since October after breaking his collarbone. The Fiesta Bowl, in fact, could evolve into a battle between two of the best young backs in college football as Boise State sophomore Ian Johnson (#41, 5-10, 195) emerged as rising superstar this fall as he ran for over 1,600 yards and scored 24 times.
Both teams, though, also have some very good seniors. The Sooners best senior pro prospect, for example, is OLB Rufus Alexander (#42, 6-0, 230), who could sneak into the late-first round this coming April. The Sooners also have a top trio of excellent edge rushers in DEs C.J. Ah You (#99, 6-4, 275), Calvin Thibodeux (#58, 6-1, 255) and Larry Birdine (#92, 6-2, 260). The Sooners also have a very athletic LT in Chris Messner (#79, 6-5, 280) although he isn't very big.
Boise State has quietly emerged as one of the better programs in the country in the past decade winning an average of over 10 games per year in the last seven seasons. However, that success hasn’t translated to a lot of success on draft day. Indeed, when Green Bay selected former Broncos’ OT Darren Colledge in the middle of the second round this past April, it represented the first time in twenty years that Boise State had a player taken on the first day of the draft. Unfortunately, the Broncos aren’t likely to dramatically reverse that trend this fall, but will be busy enough this coming April with a deep draft class that includes QB Jared Zabransky (#5, 6-2, 2050), WR Legedu Naanee (#4, 6-2, 230), TE Derel Schouman (#91, 6-2, 235), FB Brad Lau (#34, 5-11, 245), MLB Korey Hall (#25, 6-1, 230), DB Gerald Alexander (#2, 6-0, 205), DT Andrew Browning (#57, 6-0, 280), and PK Anthony Montgomery (#47, 6-1, 210). Zabransky, for example, has been one of the more productive passers in the country the past couple of seasons, but still throws far too interceptions, while Hall is a prototype tackling machine, but isn’t overly big or fast. Meanwhile, while the afore-mentioned Colledge had pro scouts excited, they positively drool when checking out talented Boise State sophomore offensive linemen Ryan Clady (#79, 6-6, 320), a very athletic LT prospect, and road-grading Canadian OG Andrew Woodruff (#67, 6-3, 330).....
Underclassmen still have a couple of weeks to formally apply to the NFL for entry to this year's draft, however, it does not appear that Kentucky junior QB Andre Woodson is going anywhere at least this winter. The 6-5 Woodson, who led the Wildcats to an upset over Clemson at the Music City Bowl over the weekend stated after the game that he would be back at school next fall.....
Denver Broncos cornerback Darrent Williams was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in downtown Denver early Monday morning, police said. Williams, a second-round pick in the 2005 draft out of Oklahoma State, started nine games as a rookie due to injuries. This season, he took over as the starter for Lenny Walls alongside Champ Bailey, and was second on the team with four interceptions and tied for third with 86 tackles. We met Darrent at the Senior Bowl prior to the 2005 draft and found him to be a thoughtful young man with a bright future. Our condolences go his family.
Sunday, December 31, 2006
WEEK 17
How bad has it been for Miami this fall: the Hurricanes have been reduced to playing in the bowl game contested on blue turf! That goes tonight in Boise for those who didn’t get their fill of football earlier in the day....
Sunday, December 31
MPC Computer Bowl, Boise; 7:30 PM ET; ESPN
Miami (6-6) vs Nevada (8-4)
It is a testament to how far Miami has fallen this year that the Hurricanes were lucky just to get an invitation to the infamous ‘Blue Field’ bowl in Boise where nobody wants to wants to play. Indeed, the Hurricanes streak of having at least one player selected in the opening round of the NFL draft could be sorely tested this coming April. The Hurricanes do have a couple of players with near first round grades in FS Brandon Meriweather (#19, 6-0, 190) and junior TE Greg Olsen (#82, 6-5, 255) but neither are locks to be taken in the opening round. Meriweather in particular had a disappointing year that wasn’t helped when he was suspended for a game for his actions in that ugly brawl with Florida International. Meanwhile, DE Baraka Atkins (#98, 6-4, 265), RB Tyrone Moss (#30, 5-9, 225), DT Kareem Brown (#99, 6-3, 305), and oft-troubled WR Ryan Moore (#85, 6-3, 215) all have at least early second-day draft potential.
It is also something of a testament to Miami’s fall in that their unheralded ‘Blue Field’ bowl opponents Nevada may have just as interesting a 2007 draft class. The Wolfpack, for example, has a high-powered offense led by QB Jeff Rowe (#3, 6-5, 225), one of the top passers in the country nobody other than pro scouts has seen. And Rowe has plenty of weapons to work with including WR Caleb Spencer (#5, 5-11, 180), TE Anthony Pudewell (#83, 6-3, 240) and RB Robert Hubbard (#19, 5-10, 205). Meanwhile, the defense, which features CB Joe Garcia (#23, 5-11, 180), arguably the Wolfpack’s top prospect overall, SS Nick Hawthorne (#28, 6-0, 200), and DE/OLB J.J. Milan (#91, 6-5, 265), who had 9.5 sacks this fall.
The 2006 NFL regular schedule wraps up later today and by the end of the day most teams will know where they will be selecting in the opening round of this year’s draft. That certainly goes for Detroit and Oakland which still have to decide which of the two will have the #1 pick at this year’s draft. Both play on the road at 1 PM ET later today with Detroit at Dallas and Oakland playing in New York against the Jets. If they both lose – or both win – Detroit will almost assuredly end up with this year’s top pick. The Lions combined opponents have won 4 fewer games than those of the Raiders this year, a gap that is almost impossible to make up in one week given that the teams have several common opponents. Making it even more likely that the Lions pick ahead of the Raiders if the two end up with the same record is the fact that most of the Lions opponents are underdogs this weekend while the majority of those of the Raiders are generally favored. However, it works out this weekend, both Detroit and Oakland are assured one of the top two picks this coming April as each team has won but twice this fall while everyone else has won at least four games. Meanwhile, there is still plenty of sorting out to do later today in the remainder of the top 10. In fact, today’s ‘big’ game, at least from a draft prespective, is in Houston where the Texans, who would pick in the 6-7 slot were the draft held today hosts Cleveland which would pick third. And the Browns will be in tough given that they will have to go with 3rd stringer Ken Dorsey at QB because of injuries to Charlie Frye and Derek Anderson. Elsewhere, Tampa Bay, which is sitting on the 4th pick hosts Seattle while Arizona, which would pick 5th is at AFC leading San Diego. We’ll have the full, updated first round selection order after tonight’s season finale in Chicago where the Bears hosts Green Bay in what may, or may not, be Packers’ QB Brett Favre’s final game.....
Week Seventeen Team Reports
Saturday December 30, 2006
Sunday
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (7-8) AT CINCINNATI BENGALS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
STEELERS
Saturday Update: If this is indeed Bill Cowher's last game as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers the candidates to succeed him will lineup quickly. Pittsburgh currently has two assistant coaches who both came close to landing head coaching jobs last year.
Offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt and offensive line coach Russ Grimm will be top candidates in Pittsburgh and elsewhere once the firings and resignations start pouring in. Both had interviews for head coaching jobs last year.
Friday Update:Starting QB Ben Roethlisberger (left shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting ORT Max Starks (knee) remains out with rookie OL Willie Colon starting again for him.
Starting C Jeff Hartings (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting OLB Clark Hagans (knee) is out. Backup OL James Harrison (knee) is expected to start for him. He was upgraded to probable after practicing again Friday.
Backup ILB Clint Kriewaldt (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting CB DeShea Townsend (hand-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup FS Ryan Clark (groin) remains out. Backup S Andre Lott (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game if needed.
Starting SS Troy Polamalu (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BENGALS
Saturday Update: Tomorrow#1 WR Chad Johnson will try to become the first player to win four consecutive receiving yardage championships.
Johnson has 1,316 yards, 24 ahead of Marvin Harrison (1,292) and 44 yards in front of Donald Driver (1,272). Reggie Wayne (1,240) is 76 yards behind Johnson.
Johnson started the season slowly and didn't have a game with over 100 yards receiving until mid-November when he went off for 260 yards against San Diego. Do you think Ocho Cinco would have had that kind of game ifOLB Shawne Merriman, who was suspended for that game, had played?
Friday Update:Starting C Rich Braham (knee) was placed on IR Friday. The club signed RBQuincy Wilson off of the practice squad Friday to replace him. Backup CEric Ghiaciuc will again start for Braham.
Starting LG Eric Steinbach (probable-illness), starting DT Sam Adams (probable-illness), and rookie LB A.J. Nicholson (probable-illness) all returned to practice Friday. Steinbach and Adams are expected to start.
Starting OLT Levi Jones (knee) was downgraded on Friday to questionable after missing practice again. The Bengals need a win Sunday to have a shot at the playoffs and if Jones can play he will but the team also isn’t going to mess around with a player they signed to a $40 million extension this past off-season. Rookie OL Andrew Whitworth would start if Jones can’t, which could mean trouble. Whitworth had troubles against Colt DE Dwight Freeney and Bronco DE/OLB Elvis Dumervil, both speed rushers, and Whitworth is sure to get a heavy dose of Steeler OLB Joey Porter if he is in there.
Starting ORT Willie Anderson (probable-foot) has been held out of all practices this week but is expected to start against the Steelers. Backup OL Stacey Andrews would start if needed.
Starting DE Bryan Robinson (probable-toe) was held out of practices this week week but is still expected to start.
Starting FS Madieu Williams (probable-bruised thigh) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
DETROIT LIONS (2-13) AT DALLAS COWBOYS (9-6) 1:00 PM EST
LIONS
Saturday Update: Starting WR Mike Furrey's incredible season will reach new heights tomorrow when he cracks the 1,000-yard mark and over 90 catches. The fact that a guy who was the Rams starting free safety last year could change positions and excel at that level is amazing. The question now is will another team sign him as a wide receiver in free agency?
Furrey's finest year as a receiver came with the New York Dragons of the AFL when he had over 1,500 yards in a season.
Friday Update: The Lions placed starting CB Fernando Bryant (concussion) on IR Wednesday. He had returned to practice fully last week for the first time since being injured Dec. 3 but didn't play vs. the Bears as it was deemed too risky. Backup CB Stanley Wilson has started for Bryant the last three weeks and will do so again Sunday in Dallas.
Veteran TE Casey FitzSimmons (separated shoulder) is out for the season finale and didn't practice this week.
Starting LG Ross Verba (groin) was placed on IR Friday. He was injured two weeks ago and finishes his injury-plagued season with seven starts. With he and Bryant going on IR this week, that makes 16 players placed on IR.
Backup OL Stephen Peterman, who was promoted from the practice squad two weeks ago, and rookie OL Frank Davis will start at guard Sunday once again, leaving veteran OL Rick DeMulling to come in off the bench if needed.
To replace Verba on the roster, the Lions signed DE Claude Harriott from their practice squad. CB Dee McCann was signed off the practice squad Wednesday to replace Bryant on the roster.
Backup LB Teddy Lehman (hamstring) and KR/PR/WR Eddie Drummond (ankle) are both listed as questionable.
Lehman has missed the last four games but returned to practice each day this week for the first time since suffering the injury. Drummond, who didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, did work out on Friday, making it more possible that he can play Sunday. He was inactive last week and rookie WR DeVale Ellis took over his return duties, bringing back six kickoffs for 139 yards and four punts for 61 yards.
Veteran TE Marcus Pollard (hamstring-probable) returned to action last week after missing the game Dec. 17 and practiced fully this week and is expected to play.
COWBOYS
Saturday Update: We found it interesting this week when his team was fighting for playoff position that starting WR Terrell Owens would take this opportunity to talk about how difficult it's been for him to play through injuries.
"You guys would have never known, so I'm not going to make an excuse about my finger," said Owens on Thursday. "My finger's jacked up, that's just the nature of it. It is what it is. If I was going to make an excuse, I would have had the surgery, then I wouldn't be sitting here talking about this."
If that wasn't enough Owens took it one step further.
"If it was anybody else gutting it out with the way my hand is, I'm guaranteeing you that they would be probably be saying that he's a warrior, he's sucking it up for the team," Owens said. "But just because it's me, that's not going to be the case. I understand that. Is it fair? No. But you know what, I have to live with that."
Sounds like Owens misses the attention he once received for breaking his ankle and making that super-human comeback in time to play and star in the Super Bowl.
If the Cowboys are going to get backup FS Tony Parrish involved, this should be the week. He's been inactive since signing with Dallas. Parrish has been a strong safety his entire career.
Friday Update: Backup DE Kenyon Coleman will likely see more playing time than usual as a nickel pass rusher. Their pass rush has been weak since starting OLB Greg Ellis was lost for the season.
Backup DT Jay Ratliff (shoulder-questionable) practiced Friday. His status is considered to be a game day decision.
Dime CB Jacques Reeves (elbow-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-11) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (5-10) 1:00 PM EST
BROWNS
Saturday Update: The Browns injury problems started in their very first practice in training camp whenstarting C LeCharles Bentley suffered a season ending knee injury on the first play. Yesterday, the club placed starting G Cosey Coleman on IR bringing the list of players placed on injured reserve by the browns this year to 16.
Look for rookie WR Travis Wilson to finally see playing time on Sunday. Wilson has been inactive for 12 games this season and only has one catch. He impressed us with his performance during Senior Bowl week practices but he signed late and fell behind and never moved up the depth chart.
Friday Update: Starting QB Charlie Frye (right wrist-questionable) did some very light throwing on Friday. There's a chance that he dresses for the game but backup QBKen Dorsey is expected to start.
“It isn’t very likely," Frye said Friday about playing.
Starting TE Kellen Winslow (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Joe Jurevicius (concussion) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and isn't expected to play. Backup WR Dennis Northcutt (shoulder-questionable) didn't practice Friday because of his shoulder and now quadriceps injury. His status is considered a game-time decision. WR Kendrick Mosley was signed off of the practice squad Friday to provide some depth. Starting WR Braylon Edwards will play a lot on Sunday and will probably start due to the injury problems at the position. Edwards was late for a team meeting last week and didn't play until the second quarter. KR/PR Josh Cribbs will see extra reps at receiver and rookie WRTravis Wilson should see some playing time on Sunday.
Starting G Joe Andruzzi (knee) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Starting G Cosey Coleman (ankle) was placed on IR Friday. Backup OL Lennie Friedman will start for Coleman and rookie OL Rob Smith may start for the Coleman.
Starting DE Alvin McKinley (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Backup DL Nick Eason (foot) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to start again for him.
Starting ILB Andra Davis (concussion) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to put. Backup ILB Chaun Thompson (thumb) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable from questionable and is expected to start for Davis again.
Starting CB Leigh Bodden (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Backup CB Ralph Brown is expected to start again for him.
TEXANS
Saturday Update: So much has been made about the team selecting DE Mario Williams in the draft over some notable offensive talent but nobody has given the Texans their due for drafting MLB Demeco Ryans in the second round. He leads the team with 145 tackles and looks like he's going to be a stud. Ryans is a bit small for an inside player but he plays bigger than his listed size and has held up well physically this season. That's impressive when you consider he'll have played in 20 games this season which is much more than he played in any season in college.
Friday Update:Starting RB Ron Dayne (ankle-probable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
Starting TE Owen Daniels (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play. Backup TEs Mark Bruener and Jeb Putzier would fill in again if needed.
Starting DE Mario Williams (foot-probable) was able to practice some Friday and is expected to start.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (8-7) AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
JAGUARS
Saturday Update: Starting FS Deon Grant (hamstring-questionable) practiced on Friday and expects to start.
"I opened it up (ran full speed) and it didn't pull on me, so I think we'll be all right for Sunday," Grant said.
Starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) practiced but didn't test it the way Grant did.
"I haven't opened it up, but I feel confident about it," Taylor said. "It's feeling better this week than it felt the week leading into the Tennessee game (when he aggravated the injury)."
Friday Update: Starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) remains one of nine players listed as probable heading into the team's regular season finale in Kansas City.
Taylor, who has 1,102 yards rushing this season practiced each day this week after sitting out last Sunday's game vs. New England and is on track to start barring a setback. He had aggravated a strain in his hamstring early in the game Dec. 17.
Taylor was replaced last week by rookie RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee-probable), who did limited work Wednesday but got full days of work in on Thursday and Friday. Jones-Drew, who has 895 yards rushing and 12 TDs, has been hobbled of late also by a sore calf but had a big game vs. the Patriots with 19 carries for 131 yards and two scores, plus six catches for 41 yards. Jones-Drew is expected to handle his usual role on Sunday.
Jacksonville will be without backup OT Stockar McDougle (chest-out) vs. the Chiefs but the chances of having starting FS Deon Grant (strained hamstring) increased Friday when he practiced for the first time this week and was upgraded from doubtful to questionable. Rookie free agent S Jamal Fudge would get the start if Grant is unable to play.
Backup DT Tony McDaniel (hip-questionable) practiced each day this week but still might not be active. He's missed the last four games.
Among the other eight players listed as probable are starters QB David Garrard (hamstring), DT Marcus Stroud (right ankle), and FB Derrick Wimbush (ankle).
Stroud has rested at least one day in many of the last weeks (rested Wednesday and Thursday of this week) but hasn't missed game-time since October, while Garrard and Wimbush practiced fully each day this week and will be in their usual spots Sunday.
The others listed as probable are #3 WR Matt Jones (hamstring), dime CBAhmad Carroll (illness), P Chris Hanson (left hamstring), and backup OLB Jorge Cordova (hamstring) - all four practiced fully each day this week with the exception of Carroll, who was added Thursday when he sat out with the flu. He returned to practice Friday but remains listed on the injury report. All of those players are expected to be available for the game.
Starting CB Rashean Mathis (illness) was removed from the injury report on Thursday. He sat out Wednesday's session with the flu.
CHIEFS
Saturday Update: Both of these teams head into Sunday as near misses for the playoffs. They both controlled their own playoff destinies before recent losses put them in a position where they need a win and a prayer to get into the playoffs. Nevertheless, head coach Herm Edwards did a good job in his first season, which was spent with QB Damon Huard as his starter for eight games.
With the Jags coming to town Chief fans are once again reminded that Kansas City traded up in the first round of the 2002 draft to take DT Ryan Sims, who has 7 tackles this year and 74 in his not so bright five year career. Three picks later the Jags took future Pro Bowl DT John Henderson.
Starting ORT Kyle Turley (shoulder) was placed on IR.
Friday Update: Backup RB Michael Bennett (ankle-questionable) missed practice Friday. His status will be decided on Sunday. #3 RB Dee Brown would fill in again if needed.
Backup TE Jason Dunn (back) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play.
Starting ORT Kyle Turley (shoulder) remains out. Backup OL John Welbourn starts again for him.
ST. LOUIS RAMS (7-8) AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS (6-9) 1:00 PM EST
RAMS
Saturday Update: Starting QB Marc Bulger cracked the 4,000-yard passing mark for the first time in his career last week and he should throw the ball all over the field against the Viking secondary tomorrow.
As Viking team insider, "tell your subscribers to start their Ram receivers and Bulger on their fantasy teams."
It will be interesting to see what the Rams do with #3 WR Kevin Curtis who is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March. With starting WR Isaac Bruce finding a fountain of youth this season, the Rams can't justify placing their franchise tag on Curtis for him to come off the bench again.
Friday Update:Starting FB Paul Smith (neck-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup FB Madison Hedgecock to start again for him.
Starting WR Torry Holt (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting DT La'Roi Glover (ribs-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting DE Victor Adeyanju (forearm) was downgraded to questionable on Friday despite practicing. Backup DE Brandon Green would start if needed.
"We'll make the decision on Victor on gameday," said head coach Scott Linehan after Friday's practice. "He seemed okay with his cast. We downgraded him just because the cast he's had hasn't been very functional, but I think he's more comfortable with the way we have it now."
Starting DE Leonard Little (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting MLB Will Witherspoon (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
VIKINGS
Saturday Update: The 2006 Vikings met their Waterloo in week eight when they were thoroughly exposed by the New England Patriots in a 31-7 thrashing that would leave their offense reeling for the rest of the season. The biggest off-season decision that will need to be made is who will their starting QB be for 2007? Tarvaris Jackson gets one more chance to prove he should be considered for the job tomorrow. Viking fans won't be patient for another season. After all, this was a 9-7 team vying for a playoff spot in week 17 last year.
Friday Update: Starting QB Tarvaris Jackson (knee-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start. Backup QB Brooks Bollinger (shoulder-probable) practiced some again Friday but is expected to handle the #3 role again.
Starting RB Chester Taylor (ribs-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
FB Jeff Dugan (foot-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Troy Williamson (hamstring-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Veteran TE Jim Kleinsasser (elbow-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting MLB Napoleon Harris (dislocated wrist-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup CB Charles Gordonis expected to start for CB Cedric Griffin (neck-IR).
P Chris Kluwe (hamstring-probable) is expected to start.
CAROLINA PANTHERS (7-8) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (10-5) 1:00 PM EST
PANTHERS
Saturday Update: The Panthers ran the ball 52 times last week and attempted just 7 passes. This week the offense will be much different and we expect them to try t get their passing game going with starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-probable) returning to the lineup and playing in front of his hometown fans.
Friday Update: Starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #2 QB Chris Weinke (chest-probable) practiced again Friday and will be available for the game if needed.
Backup RB Nick Goings (chest-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
#3 WR Drew Carter (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. Backup WR Keary Colbert is expected to be active Sunday to replace Carter again.
Starting SLB Thomas Davis (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. Rookie LB James Anderson is expected to start for him.
SAINTS
Saturday Update: While the Saints will rest many of their offensive starters tomorrow it will be interesting to see how many defensive players they sit. The Saints are coming off their best effort of the season, holding the Giants to seven points last week and never allowing them to run a play in Saints territory. They held New York to just 142 total yards.
We're told the following players will be inactive on Sunday: starting RBDeuce McAllister (rest), backup RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring-doubtful), backup WR Terrance Copper (foot-doubtful), starting TE Mark Campbell (knee), and starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-doubtful).
They'll get starting DT Hollis Thomas back for the playoffs but they haven't surrendered more than 17 points since he was suspended for violating the league's substance abuse policy.
The team is treating this game, we're told, like a pre-season game so look for Starting QB Drew Brees, rookie RB Reggie Bush, and starting WRMarques Colson to play sparingly. Probably between a quarter and a half at the most. Backup RB Jamaal Branch could get an extended looked in the game. Backup QB Jamie Martin could play a lot and backup WRs Devery Henderson and Jamal Jones are expected to see a lot of playing time.
The team waived backup K Billy Cundiff and re-signed backup RB Fred McAfee.
Friday Update: With the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs locked up, head coach Sean Payton is expected to give several starters rest in Sunday's gave vs. the Panthers. Payton isn't saying who will play how much, however.
One player almost surely not to play is starting WR Joe Horn (groin-doubtful). He hasn't played since a failed attempt to work into action Dec. 3 but has increased his running activities on the side in the last week and is expected back for the playoffs. Horn also missed the first two games of November with a strained groin but started in the next three contests after that span. Having him miss this week's game will give him an additional two weeks of rest.
The Saints have started in a three-receiver set in two of the last three weeks with #4 WR Terrance Copper and #3 WR Devery Henderson on the field alongside rookie WR Marques Colston. Copper (foot) is one of three players downgraded from questionable to doubtful on Friday. He didn't practice this week.
Jamal Jones is the only other true receiver on the roster, so he may be called on Sunday. Veteran KR/PR Michael Lewis can play receiver but he's more of a return specialist at this point in his career.
The three other players listed on the injury report are starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-doubtful), starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-doubtful), and backup RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring-doubtful). None of the three practiced this week and Campbell and Stoutmire were the other players downgraded Friday. Stecker was downgraded on Thursday, has been bothered by his hamstring for weeks but did play last Sunday for the first time in several games.
Campbell returned to the lineup last week and was joined in a two-tight end alignment to start the game by backup TE Billy Miller.
Stoutmire still hasn't practiced since getting hurt three weeks ago. Backup S Steve Gleason started Dec. 17 and backup S Jay Bellamy was in the lineup a week ago.
OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-13) AT NEW YORK JETS (9-6) 1:00 PM EST
RAIDERS
Saturday Update: How badly do the Raiders want the first pick in the draft? Well when you consider that they've owned the second pick twice in the last ten years and ended up with OLT Robert Gallery and the late Darrell Russell, you could see why they might be a little troubled about that spot.
OLT Orlando Pace was drafted ahead of Russell. QB Eli Manning was picked ahead of Gallery and WR Larry Fitzgerald and QB Philip Rivers were taken just after him.
Friday Update:Starting QB Aaron Brooks (neck-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting RB LaMont Jordan (knee) was placed on IR Friday. Backup RB Justin Fargas starts for him.
Starting FB Zack Crockett (heel-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Randy Moss (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and won't play with backup WR Johnnie Morant starting again for him. Backup WR Jerry Porter (hip) was placed on IR Friday.
Starting OLT Robert Gallery (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting Kevin Boothe (elbow-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting CB Fabian Washington (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
The team signed S Hiram Eugene and TE Derek Miller off of the practice squad on Friday.
JETS
Saturday Update: Starting CB Andre Dyson (knee-questionable) is not expected to play but starting RB Cedric Houston (calf-questionable) is expected to play. We'll confirm his status at least an hour before game time
It will be interesting to see what the Jets do about their running back position going into next season. Veteran RB Kevan Barlow has been a disappointment and while Houston has flashed some skills, it remains to be seen if he can carry the load for an entire season. Rookie RB Leon Washington hasn't shown yet that he can consistently carry the ball a lot.
Friday Update:Starting QB Chad Pennington (calf-probable) practiced again Friday and will start.
RB Cedric Houston (calf-questionable) was limited again Friday but should be able to play this week and likely will handle more than half of the carries. Backup RB Kevan Barlow's (thigh-questionable) status remains a game day decision. Rookie RB Leon Washington will handle the carries that Houston doesn't handle and he'll also see time in passing situations.
Starting FB B.J. Askew (foot-questionable) was limited on Friday but should play. Backup FB James Hodgins (questionable-knee) probably won't play.
Starting WR Laveranues Coles (head-questionable) was limited Friday but should be able to start. If not, backup WR Justin McCareins would start.
Veteran CB David Barrett (hip-questionable) didn't practice on Friday, but should be able to play a limited role, like he has all year. Journeyman CB Hank Poteat has been starting of late. But the Jets might need Barrett to play more this week with the injury to starting CB Andre Dyson (knee-questionable). Dyson hurt his knee in the second half against Miami, and needed help off the field. He didn't practice Friday and likely won't play.
Backup S Eric Smith (foot-questionable) didn't practice on Thursday, but will likely play. He is one of the Jets best special teams player, and is rotating in at safety. He played with this injury last week.
Starting SS Kerry Rhodes (knee-questionable) was limited all week but is still expected to start. Smith would start if needed.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (8-7) AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (4-11) 1:00 PM EST
SEAHAWKS
Saturday Update: Backup WRs D.J. Hackett and Bobby Engram could be bigger factors tomorrow especially since the Buccaneer CB's are weak once you get past Ronde Barber, who should spend most of his time with starting WR Deion Branch.
Friday Update: Starting WR Darrell Jackson (turf toe-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and is not expected to play. The team opened up with a three-receiver set last week with backup WRs D.J. Hackett and Bobby Engram starting.
Starting C Robbie Tobeck (hip) was a surprise upgrade from out to probable on Friday despite not practicing. Tobeck has been cleared medically to play but since he's lost to much weight, he's unlikely to play. Backup C Chris Spencer will start again for him.
Starting G Chris Gray (thigh) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to questionable. Starting G Floyd Womack will likely move over to start for him. Rookie G Rob Sims will start in Womack's LG spot.
Starting DT Rocky Bernard (foot-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup MLB Niko Koutouvides (Ankle) practiced Friday and is expected to be available for the game.
Starting CB Marcus Trufant (ankle-doubtful) has a high-ankle sprain and won't play this week and didn't practice at all. First-round pick CB Kelly Jennings will make his first pro start.
BUCCANEERS
Saturday Update: 8 of their 10 draft picks made the roster this year and 4 of them have received starts. Unfortunately, one of those rookies was QB Bruce Gradkowski, who received too much playing time in a lost season. The pressure is mounting on head coach Jon Gruden and he'll need to get back to winning ways by next season or he will be looking for a new home. The Glazer's didn't expect their 11-5 team of 2005 to finish at 4-12 or 5-11 this season.
Friday Update:Tampa Bay placed rookies DL Julian Jenkins and CB Alan Zemaitis on IR Friday.
Jenkins played in 12 games this season, totaling nine tackles, along with one special teams tackle. He was drafted by the team in the fifth round (156th overall).
Zemaitis was a fourth-round selection (122nd overall) by the Buccaneers. A three-year starter at Penn State, he was a second-team All-America selection as a senior. He did not see action with the Buccaneers in 2006.
"It's been an ongoing injury that he's had. After further diagnosis, I think all the heads got together and decided the best thing to do was get this thing fixed as soon as we can so he can get back ready to roll in the off-season program," said head coach Jon Gruden in discussing Zemaitis' injury.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers signed RB Lionel Gates to the active roster. Gates was signed to the practice squad on Sept. 3. He entered the league as a 2005 seventh-round pick with the Buffalo Bills. He was released by the Bills prior to the regular season on Sept. 2.
Starting RB Cadillac Williams (foot-questionable) missed his sixth straight practice and is not expected to play. Look for backup RB Michael Pittman to start again for him with starting FB Mike Alstott and backup RB Earnest Graham backing him up.
"If he can play, he's playing. It he can't, he won't. Right now, it doesn't appear that he's ready to go," Gruden said.
Gates could even be active for Sunday considering the team's uncertain situation in the backfield.
"Given the injuries that we have at this point, we might need Lionel Gates," said Gruden. "You never know if someone's going to show up to the hotel sick (on Saturday night). Some emergency could happen, so you've got to cover your bases."
#2 TE Alex Smith (back) was able to practice Friday after missing the previous two days. He was subsequently upgraded from doubtful to questionable. Smith suffered his back injury against Cleveland.
Gruden said Smith is, "still very questionable."
Starting G Davin Joseph (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Nickel CB Juran Bolden (quadriceps-questionable) and backup WLB Jamie Winborn (knee-questionable) both practiced Friday and are expected to fill their usual roles on Sunday.
Starting DT Ellis Wyms (ankle) and starting SS Jermaine Phillips (wrist) practiced again Friday. Though both players are listed as questionable, we expect both of them to start, barring a setback.
The roster stands at 52 players. The team could still sign a 53rd player on Saturday and have him be eligible for Sunday's season finale against the Seahawks.
"We're going to play the guys that give us a chance to win. We've got a lot of other guys that have a lot invested too. We need our best players to win. We're not our here for the hell of it," Gruden said.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (11-4) AT TENNESSEE TITANS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
PATRIOTS
Saturday Update: There have been way too many rumors in the media about head coach Bill Belichick possibly leaving New England after this season. Many of these rumors were probably started by wishful Giant fans who are tired of hearing the praise that's being bestowed on Belichick's protégé, Eric Mangini in the New York area.
Belichick is under contract with the Patriots past this season. If he is to leave for another team after this season the Pats would need to trade his rights…and why would they ever want to do that?
Friday Update:Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully Friday. practiced fully today after missing most of Wednesday and Thursday's work. He's expected to start but how long he plays hasn't been made known. Last year in week 17 against the Dolphins, Brady played just one quarter and left after throwing an 11-yard TD pass to WR Deion Branch with a minute left in the first quarter.
Head coach Bill Belichick hasn't given any indication about playing time for this game, but last year in the regular season finale some starters came out relatively early and some played the whole game. That's a likely scenario once again.
#2 QB Matt Cassel, who took most of the first-team reps in practice this week, would be next off the bench.
Backup RB Kevin Faulk (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and should play.
#2 TE Ben Watson (knee) practiced some again Friday but remains questionable to play. Rookie TE David Thomas has filled in him since he got hurt.
Starting CB Chad Scott (back) practiced and but remains questionable to play. Nickel CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist-probable), who was one of three players to practice fully without missing a snap Thursday, backs up Scott.
Starting DT Vince Wilfork (ankle) saw some time in practice again Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup DL Mike Wright (shoulder-questionable) practiced and is ready to fill in again if needed.
Backup S Rashad Baker (thigh), backup WR Brandon Childress (ankle) and backup ORT Ryan O'Callaghan (neck) all practiced Friday but remain questionable to play. Backup OT Nick Kaczur has been starting for O'Callaghan since the mid-season point.
Starting DE Richard Seymour (elbow-probable) and starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Friday and are expected to start.
TITANS
Saturday Update: During the Titans current six-game winning streak, starting QB Vince Young has engineered four 4th quarter come from behind victories, the most recent last week in Buffalo when the trailed the Bills 29-20 entering the fourth quarter. Most head coaches would say that's the final test for a young signal caller. When your team is trailing can you lead them to victory. Young has proven he can, which is why Tennessee is one of the biggest surprises of the 2006 season. This is a team that nobody wants to play.
Friday Update:As its improbable march to a possible playoff berth continues, the team has seven players listed as questionable, including starting RB Travis Henry (ankle). He was also listed last week when he rushed 25 times for 135 yards. He rested Wednesday but got full days of work in on Thursday and Friday and is expected to start.
Also listed on the injury report are starting DT Robaire Smith (toe), #3 WR Bobby Wade (ankle), backup DT Tony Brown (ankle), starting TEBo Scaife (ankle), backup FB/TE Casey Cramer (neck), and starting DE Travis LaBoy (knee).
Brown injured his right knee in Wednesday's practice and was taken off the field. He sat out Thursday's session but returned to practice on Friday. If he can't play, rookie DT Jesse Mahelona would be active and see action.
Scaife practiced Thursday and Friday for the first time in almost three weeks and has a chance to play. Backup TE Ben Hartsock started for him the last two weeks.
Cramer and Wade worked Friday for the first time this week Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday.
LaBoy has missed days or practice from time to time of late but he didn't practice at all this week, as did Smith. LaBoy started last week.
Starting CB Reynaldo Hill (ankle) isn't listed on the injury report. He missed parts of practice last week but started Sunday and is practicing fully this week, as is starting WR Drew Bennett (knee), who has rested a day or two in recent weeks but hasn't missed any playing time. Bennett was limited on Thursday.
BUFFALO BILLS (7-8) AT BALTIMORE RAVENS (12-3) 1:00 PM EST
BILLS
Saturday Update: The Bills have three difficult free agent decisions to make in the off-season.
Starters CB Nate Clements, DE Chris Kelsay, and MLB London Fletcher will all be free agents. Clements is in line for a huge payday, which usually means leaving small markets like Buffalo. Fletcher has led the team in tackles all five years he's been there but he's also a reason why their run defense has struggled this season. Fletcher is too small and turns 32 in May. He's unlikely to get a big free agent deal elsewhere.
Kelsay has been part of a very good three-end rotation that has combined for 25.5 sacks this year. He's the most likely to re-sign with the club.
Friday Update: Starting FB Daimon Shelton (concussion) was placed on IR Friday. Replacing him on the roster was WR George Wilson from the practice squad.
Starting S Donte Whitner (probable-toe) was able to practice Friday and is expected to start. If for some reason he couldn't play, backup S Jim Leonhard is his expected replacement.
Backup OL Aaron Merz was excused for family reasons, but is expected to make the trip this weekend.
RAVENS
Saturday Update: You can't say enough about the season that the Raven defense has had. They're the only NFL team that his given up fewer than 200 points this season and they have the best turnover ratio in the league at plus-15.
Friday Update: Starting WR Mark Clayton (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #3 WR Demetrius Williams (knee) was added to the injury report as probable but was able to practice Friday and is expected to play.
Backup TE Daniel Wilcox (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting OLT Jonathan Ogden (toe-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and since he can't run, he won't be able to play. Backup OT Adam Terry will start for him again.
Starting G Keydrick Vincent (groin-questionable) missed practice again Friday. Rookie OL Chris Chester would start for him if needed.
"We'll have to see," head coach Brian Billick said after Friday's practice. "He's moving along better. We'll see Sunday. He'll be a game-time decision."
Vincent has been bothered by groin problems at different points of the season.
"I'm feeling a little bit better. It sucks. I was able to do some stuff today. It's getting there," Vincent said after Friday's practice.
Rookie OL Chris Chester would start for him. Starting G Jason Brown (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Adalius Thomas (ankle-questionable) was limited all week in practice but is still expected to start.
Starting SLB Bart Scott (ankle-probable) was limited Friday but is expected to start.
MIAMI DOLPHINS (6-9) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (11-4) 4:15 PM EST
DOLPHINS
Saturday Update: Head coach Nick Saban left the possibility that veteran QB Joey Harrington could still play tomorrow in relief of QBCleo Lemon who is set to make his first NFL start.
Starting MLB Zach Thomas was fined $7,500 for his helmet-to-helmet hit on Jet WR Laveranues Coles last week. Coles missed the rest of the first half after the hit but returned to the game in the second half.
Friday Update: Starting RB Ronnie Brown (broken hand-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Marty Booker (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is likely to start. Backup WR Wes Welker would start again if needed.
Starting DT Keith Traylor (knee-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup DT Jeff Zgonina is expected to start for him.
Starting CB Travis Daniels (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. The team is thin on depth because backup CB Eddie Jackson(knee) was placed on IR this week. Backup CB Michael Lehan will handle the nickel role.
Starting FS Renaldo Hill (wrist-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S Travares Tillman (hamstring-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play.
COLTS
Saturday Update: Starting RB Dominic Rhodes (wrist/ankle) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is expected to start.
At this point, K Adam Vinatieri (left knee-probable) is expected to start.
Friday Update: K Adam Vinatieri injured his left knee during Friday's practice and was added to the injury report as probable. His status will be updated after Saturday morning's walk-through. The team has until 4:00 pm est to sign a replacement if needed.
Starting RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
#3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) missed practice again Friday as did starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable).
"Ricky probably won't go and Bob Sanders is the same way. But we haven't ruled them totally out yet," head coach Tony Dungy said after Friday's practice.
Starting TE Dallas Clark (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to see some playing time on Sunday. The coaches will make a decision closer to game time if he or backup TE Ben Utecht will start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (knee-out) will be replaced by backup G Dylan Gandy.
Starting DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Rob Morris (leg) was rested on Friday.
"He strained a muscle in (Thursday's) practice. And he feels like he is going to be okay. We wanted to rest him (Friday) just to give him one extra day of rest. But he's planning on going (against Miami)," Dungy said.
Backup SLB Gilbert Gardner (illness-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
Sanders should be replaced by backup DB Marlin Jackson again. Jackson was limited by the flu Thursday but he was able to practice on Friday.
Backup CB Kelvin Hayden (concussion-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
ATLANTA FALCONS (7-8) AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (9-6) 4:15 PM EST
FALCONS
Saturday Update: Although there's a 100:1 chance the team can make the playoffs, this could be head coach Jim Mora's last game with the Falcons. A disappointing season filled with turmoil will end tomorrow. While Mora is a very good coach the personnel decisions made by this team eventually doomed them to failure. None of the high-priced free agents they brought in panned out and their choice of wide receivers in the draft absolutely killed them.
Backup CB Jason Webster (groin) was placed on IR.
Friday Update: Starting WR Ashley Lelie (out) will miss the regular season finale with a separated shoulder suffered in the third quarter Sunday while diving for a deep pass. #3 WR Roddy White will start for him with rookie WR Adam Jennings handling the #3 role.
Former starting CB Jason Webster's season is likely over as well, as he has been downgraded to doubtful this week after having the team expressed optimism last week that he may be able to see some time. He's been out since October with a torn groin muscle and can practice, but can't go enough at full-speed to play. Rookie CB Jimmy Williams is now starting.
Starting MLB Ed Hartwell (knee-probable) was added to the injury report Thursday when he sat out his second straight day but he was upgraded Friday after getting a full workout in. If Hartwell can't play, head coach Jim Mora said he would simply insert backup MLB Jordan Beck inside and keep starting WLB Keith Brooking, who has moved to MLB three times previously when Hartwell was hurt, in his normal position.
Starting SLB Michael Boley (hamstring-probable) was also upgraded from questionable Friday after he practiced for the first time this week. He had been downgraded from probable Thursday when he missed his second straight day of practice. Backup LB Ike Reese replaced Boley after he left last week's game and would start Sunday if Boley can't play.
The only other players listed are six probable starters - CB DeAngelo Hall (knee), RB Warrick Dunn (calf), DTs Grady Jackson (knee) and Rod Coleman (knee), TE Alge Crumpler (back) and ORT Todd Weiner(knee).
Crumpler was added Friday when he rested but he's expected to start.
Hall, Dunn, Jackson, and Coleman rested Wednesday but returned to practice Thursday and Friday, while Weiner only practiced on Friday this week.
Dunn was hurt three weeks ago but hasn't missed any game-time.
Rookie DE Paul Carrington started last week at RDE in place of John Abraham (torn ligaments in left thumb), who played in passing situations but was spotted in the rotation while recovering from surgery two weeks. Abraham practiced this week and isn't listed.
EAGLES
Saturday Update: The team reached a five-year contract extension late Friday night with starting LG Todd Herremans that will keep him in Philadelphia through 2013.
Herremans, a fourth round draft choice of the Eagles in 2005, becomes the eighth Eagles player to sign a long-term extension in the past six months. Also this year, the Eagles inked starting WR Reggie Brown (through 2014), starting DE Trent Cole (2013), starting DT Mike Patterson (2016), starting G Shawn Andrews (2015), starting C Jamaal Jackson (2013), starting FS Brian Dawkins(2008), and P Dirk Johnson (2011).
Herremans was projected to play tackle for the Eagles but moved to guard this season and it took him a while to get comfortable at the position which he had never played. He has steadily gotten better at the position and is one of the big reasons why their offensive line has become dominant of late.
The team tried to get him signed to an extension earlier this season but both sides were far apart. Herremans was told earlier this week that they team was interested in getting a deal done again and both sides were able to get a deal done late Friday evening.
Friday Update: Starting RB Brian Westbrook (virus-probable) missed his second straight day of practice with an illness on Friday, but head coach Andy Reid didn't seem too concerned.
Reid said he expects Westbrook to be fine by Saturday, when the team does its final walk-through in preparation for Sunday's game against the Falcons.
"He came in early today and met and got caught up on things, and it's just a matter of him getting rid of a virus that he has. He will be back tomorrow," Reid said.
Westbrook, who is averaging 5.1 yards per carry and 6 yards per touch, participated in Wednesday's practice before becoming ill.
Westbrook should be in the starting lineup Sunday and could even line up as the punt returner on occasion..
Starting TE L.J. Smith (toe-probable) practiced for a second straight day and is expected to start. Smith sprained his toe in the win over Dallas Monday. He left the game but later returned and finished with 77 receiving yards. Backup TE Matt Schobel replaced Smith after he left the game. He did return later to make that big catch.
On defense, starting CB Lito Sheppard (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Sheppard was sidelined Wednesday because of back spasms.
Backup CB William James (calf), backup SS Michael Lewis (knee), and backup LB/special teamer Dedrick Roper (knee) remain questionable for Sunday. James and Lewis haven't practiced all week, and Roper practiced only on Thursday.
Reid did not appear optimistic about their status for the game.
"I think the three (James, Lewis, and Roper) will be a struggle (to be able to play)," Reid said..
James strained his calf in pre-game warm-ups prior to the Giants game and hasn't practiced since. Backup CB Rod Hood figures to fill the role of the nickel back on Sunday.
Lewis has yet to practice since suffering an MCL sprain in his knee against the Giants on Dec. 17. Backup S Quintin Mikell was solid playing in place of Lewis against Dallas.
Roper suffered an MCL sprain Monday night.
Five other players round up the team's injury report, including starting RG Shawn Andrews (collarbone), starting C Jamaal Jackson (ankle), backup CB/special teamer Bruce Perry (hamstring), backup WLB Shawn Barber (neck), and starting MLB Jeremiah Trotter (knee). All are expected to be available in their usual roles on Sunday after practicing Friday.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (6-9) AT DENVER BRONCOS (9-6) 4:15 PM EST
49ERS
Saturday Update: Starting SS Mark Roman (ankle-probable), who won the job from Tony Parrish, was rewarded with a new three-year contract extension. Roman came into the league as a 2nd-round pick of the Bengals in 2000.
Friday Update:Starting OLT Jonas Jennings (shoulder) was downgraded to doubtful after not practicing again Friday. Look for backup OT Adam Snyder to start for him.
Starting MLB Derek Smith (hamstring) was downgraded back to questionable on Friday although he was able to practice. He was a little more limited in Thursday's practice. The team is calling his status now a game-time decision. Backup MLB/ILB Jeff Ulbrich would fill in if needed.
Starting SS Mark Roman (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BRONCOS
Saturday Update: After a four-game losing streak ended their chances of competing for a division title, the Broncos have strung two wins together against weak defensive teams.
Tomorrow's test against San Francisco won't be much greater for Jay Cutler but it will be the final test for the young QB before he really steps up in competition in the first round of the playoffs. Cutler should get plenty of chances to throw the ball making him a decent fantasy starter in week 17. Cutler has a realistic chance to be a top-10 fantasy QB next year when you look at the talent around him and head coach Mike Shanahan is willing to let him throw the ball down field consistently which he wasn't willing to do with QB Jake Plummer.
Friday Update :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 C Tom Nalen (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.
K Jason Elam (left hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting MLB Al Wilson (back/thumb-questionable) practiced some Friday but his status remains a game-time decision. The weather conditions could play a factor. He'll try to loosen up his back during pre-game warmups. Backup MLB Nate Webster would start if needed. Backup LB/special teams ace Keith Burns (hand-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Backup S Steve Cargile (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
ARIZONA CARDINALS (5-10) AT SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (13-2) 4:15 PM EST
CARDINALS
Saturday Update: Starting CB David Macklin and PR/backup WR Troy Walters (ankle) were placed on IR. Three practice squad players (WRs Micheal Spurlock andTodd Watkins and QB Shane Boyd) were signed to the active roster. Giving three practice squad players a uniform as a reward for their hard work is a nice gesture by head coach Dennis Green.
Friday Update: Starting QB Matt Leinart (left shoulder) is out with backup QB Kurt Warner starting for him.
Starting WR Anquan Boldin (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #3 WR Bryant Johnson (hip-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. #4 WR/PR Troy Walters (ankle-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and is not expected to play. Johnson is expected to return punts on Sunday.
Backup OT Oliver Ross (illness-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
Starting MLB Gerald Hayes (ribs-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup MLB Monty Beisel starting again for him.
Starting SS Adrian Wilson (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S/special teams ace Hanik Milligan (knee) was added to the injury report as probable but is expected to play.
Starting CB David Macklin (hamstring-doubtful) missed practice again Thursday and isn't expected to play with nickel CB Eric Green starting for him. Starting CB Antrel Rolle (toe-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
CHARGERS
Saturday Update: Starting OLB Shawne Merriman has 16 sacks in 11 games but even though his stats dictate that he should earn Defensive Player of the Year honors, he won't get the award. That honor is likely to go to Dolphins DE Jason Taylor. The message alone will say enough. Players who test positive for an illegal substance or steroids are not forgiven easily.
Friday Update: Starting WR/PR Eric Parker (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. #3 WR Vincent Jackson (hamstring-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play. Whether Parker or Jackson starts is considered a game-time decision.
Starting OLT Marcus McNeill (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup G Scott Mruczkowski (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available if needed for the game.
Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup DE Jacques Cesaire starting again for him. Backup DE Derreck Robinson (foot-doubtful) missed practiced all week and isn't expected to play.
Starting ILB Randall Godfrey (hamstring-questionable) missed practice Friday and probably won't play. Backup ILB Stephen Cooper will likely start again for him.
Starting OLB Shawne Merriman (illness) was added to the injury report as probable Friday but is expected to start.
Backup FS Bhawoh Jue (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
GREEN BAY PACKERS (7-8) AT CHICAGO BEARS (13-2) 8:20 PM EST
PACKERS
Saturday Update: To make the playoffs, the Packers need:
A win + Giants loss + Rams loss or
A win+ Giants loss + Panthers win or
A win + Giants loss + Falcons win or
Friday Update: Starting RB Ahman Green (probable-knee) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Donald Driver (probable-shoulder) missed practiced again Friday but was not downgraded on the injury report and is still expected to start.
"He's fought through it for a month now," head coach Mike McCarthy said on Friday. "As we all know Donald, we anticipate him going and playing well and finishing the game."
With Driver out this week for practice, that gave extra practice time to the younger receivers.
"It's a combination, just giving Donald extra time to get ready, and to rep the younger guys, because we do have a lot of youth there with (backup WR) Carlyle Holiday and (backup WR) Chris Francies and so forth," McCarthy added.
#2 TE David Martin (questionable-ribs) practiced again Friday and should be able to play.
Starting C Scott Wells (probable-shoulder) was added to the injury report after he missed practice on Friday. He's expected to start.
"It's something that's just been lingering, and frankly just to get the other young guys work. With the extra day of practice, Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday, I thought it was smart on our part," the head coach said.
Starting DT Ryan Pickett (probable-foot) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
"He had some orthodics done yesterday, and he's going to be fine," McCarthy said.
Backup MLB Abdul Hodge (questionable-shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available if needed for the game.
Starting CB Charles Woodson (probable-shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BEARS
Saturday Update: We're told the team plans to play their starters similarly to last week's game. Probably about a half. Some starters will play a little more, some will play a little less.
Friday Update: The Bears will have starting DT Tank Johnson back from his one-game suspension Sunday but it's more likely that he'll return in a reserve role. Former starting DT Alfonso Boone and Ian Scott have played well in Johnson's absence and it's been reported that Johnson lost significant weight in the last two stress-filled weeks. Boone (toe) was added to the injury report as probable Thursday when he sat out practice, but was removed Friday when he worked fully. Smith was particularly complimentary of Scott's play this week, who is slated for unrestricted free agency and started the first four games of the year before making way for Johnson.
The only new injury the Bears suffered in Detroit last week was to starting FBJason McKie, who sprained his left ankle in the first half and didn't practice this week, prompting him to be downgraded from questionable to doubtful on Friday. The only other FB on the roster, rookie sixth-round pick J.D. Runnels has dressed for only one game all season, so #3 TE Gabe Reid could get the call if McKie isn't available, as he did vs. the Lions.
Also listed on the injury report are starting CB Charles Tillman (back-questionable), who didn't practice this week. He was replaced in the lineup last week by nickel CB Ricky Manning Jr., but isn't in any danger of missing any time in the playoffs even if he doesn't play Sunday.
Starting OLT John Tait (left ankle), starting RB Thomas Jones (ankle), and special teams LB Leon Joe (left hamstring-probable) were all removed from the injury report on Friday.
Tait has been replaced by backup OT John St. Clair the last two weeks but he returned to practice each day this week and could see some playing time to get the rust off from missing his first two games in several years.
Jones rested Wednesday but returned for full days of work Thursday and Friday. He's also been banged up with ribs and calf injuries the past few weeks. He left after their first offensive series in the third quarter last week and could see even less playing time this week.
Joe injured the hamstring on the game's opening kickoff in New England Nov. 26 and hasn't played since, although he began practicing again last Thursday. He also missed two games earlier in the season with a strain in his right hamstring.
Starting LG Ruben Brown (shoulder) was removed from the list Thursday when he returned to practice. He was listed as probable on Wednesday when he rested. He is one of the players likely to get an early exit Sunday with backup G Terence Metcalf probably the best bet to replace him.
Not listed on the injury report this week are starting CB Nathan Vasher (right hamstring) and starting SS Todd Johnson (right ankle). Each returned last week from being out for multiple games, although former starting S Chris Harris remained the starter ahead of Johnson.
Sunday, December 31
MPC Computer Bowl, Boise; 7:30 PM ET; ESPN
Miami (6-6) vs Nevada (8-4)
It is a testament to how far Miami has fallen this year that the Hurricanes were lucky just to get an invitation to the infamous ‘Blue Field’ bowl in Boise where nobody wants to wants to play. Indeed, the Hurricanes streak of having at least one player selected in the opening round of the NFL draft could be sorely tested this coming April. The Hurricanes do have a couple of players with near first round grades in FS Brandon Meriweather (#19, 6-0, 190) and junior TE Greg Olsen (#82, 6-5, 255) but neither are locks to be taken in the opening round. Meriweather in particular had a disappointing year that wasn’t helped when he was suspended for a game for his actions in that ugly brawl with Florida International. Meanwhile, DE Baraka Atkins (#98, 6-4, 265), RB Tyrone Moss (#30, 5-9, 225), DT Kareem Brown (#99, 6-3, 305), and oft-troubled WR Ryan Moore (#85, 6-3, 215) all have at least early second-day draft potential.
It is also something of a testament to Miami’s fall in that their unheralded ‘Blue Field’ bowl opponents Nevada may have just as interesting a 2007 draft class. The Wolfpack, for example, has a high-powered offense led by QB Jeff Rowe (#3, 6-5, 225), one of the top passers in the country nobody other than pro scouts has seen. And Rowe has plenty of weapons to work with including WR Caleb Spencer (#5, 5-11, 180), TE Anthony Pudewell (#83, 6-3, 240) and RB Robert Hubbard (#19, 5-10, 205). Meanwhile, the defense, which features CB Joe Garcia (#23, 5-11, 180), arguably the Wolfpack’s top prospect overall, SS Nick Hawthorne (#28, 6-0, 200), and DE/OLB J.J. Milan (#91, 6-5, 265), who had 9.5 sacks this fall.
The 2006 NFL regular schedule wraps up later today and by the end of the day most teams will know where they will be selecting in the opening round of this year’s draft. That certainly goes for Detroit and Oakland which still have to decide which of the two will have the #1 pick at this year’s draft. Both play on the road at 1 PM ET later today with Detroit at Dallas and Oakland playing in New York against the Jets. If they both lose – or both win – Detroit will almost assuredly end up with this year’s top pick. The Lions combined opponents have won 4 fewer games than those of the Raiders this year, a gap that is almost impossible to make up in one week given that the teams have several common opponents. Making it even more likely that the Lions pick ahead of the Raiders if the two end up with the same record is the fact that most of the Lions opponents are underdogs this weekend while the majority of those of the Raiders are generally favored. However, it works out this weekend, both Detroit and Oakland are assured one of the top two picks this coming April as each team has won but twice this fall while everyone else has won at least four games. Meanwhile, there is still plenty of sorting out to do later today in the remainder of the top 10. In fact, today’s ‘big’ game, at least from a draft prespective, is in Houston where the Texans, who would pick in the 6-7 slot were the draft held today hosts Cleveland which would pick third. And the Browns will be in tough given that they will have to go with 3rd stringer Ken Dorsey at QB because of injuries to Charlie Frye and Derek Anderson. Elsewhere, Tampa Bay, which is sitting on the 4th pick hosts Seattle while Arizona, which would pick 5th is at AFC leading San Diego. We’ll have the full, updated first round selection order after tonight’s season finale in Chicago where the Bears hosts Green Bay in what may, or may not, be Packers’ QB Brett Favre’s final game.....
Week Seventeen Team Reports
Saturday December 30, 2006
Sunday
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (7-8) AT CINCINNATI BENGALS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
STEELERS
Saturday Update: If this is indeed Bill Cowher's last game as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers the candidates to succeed him will lineup quickly. Pittsburgh currently has two assistant coaches who both came close to landing head coaching jobs last year.
Offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt and offensive line coach Russ Grimm will be top candidates in Pittsburgh and elsewhere once the firings and resignations start pouring in. Both had interviews for head coaching jobs last year.
Friday Update:Starting QB Ben Roethlisberger (left shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting ORT Max Starks (knee) remains out with rookie OL Willie Colon starting again for him.
Starting C Jeff Hartings (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting OLB Clark Hagans (knee) is out. Backup OL James Harrison (knee) is expected to start for him. He was upgraded to probable after practicing again Friday.
Backup ILB Clint Kriewaldt (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting CB DeShea Townsend (hand-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup FS Ryan Clark (groin) remains out. Backup S Andre Lott (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game if needed.
Starting SS Troy Polamalu (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BENGALS
Saturday Update: Tomorrow#1 WR Chad Johnson will try to become the first player to win four consecutive receiving yardage championships.
Johnson has 1,316 yards, 24 ahead of Marvin Harrison (1,292) and 44 yards in front of Donald Driver (1,272). Reggie Wayne (1,240) is 76 yards behind Johnson.
Johnson started the season slowly and didn't have a game with over 100 yards receiving until mid-November when he went off for 260 yards against San Diego. Do you think Ocho Cinco would have had that kind of game ifOLB Shawne Merriman, who was suspended for that game, had played?
Friday Update:Starting C Rich Braham (knee) was placed on IR Friday. The club signed RBQuincy Wilson off of the practice squad Friday to replace him. Backup CEric Ghiaciuc will again start for Braham.
Starting LG Eric Steinbach (probable-illness), starting DT Sam Adams (probable-illness), and rookie LB A.J. Nicholson (probable-illness) all returned to practice Friday. Steinbach and Adams are expected to start.
Starting OLT Levi Jones (knee) was downgraded on Friday to questionable after missing practice again. The Bengals need a win Sunday to have a shot at the playoffs and if Jones can play he will but the team also isn’t going to mess around with a player they signed to a $40 million extension this past off-season. Rookie OL Andrew Whitworth would start if Jones can’t, which could mean trouble. Whitworth had troubles against Colt DE Dwight Freeney and Bronco DE/OLB Elvis Dumervil, both speed rushers, and Whitworth is sure to get a heavy dose of Steeler OLB Joey Porter if he is in there.
Starting ORT Willie Anderson (probable-foot) has been held out of all practices this week but is expected to start against the Steelers. Backup OL Stacey Andrews would start if needed.
Starting DE Bryan Robinson (probable-toe) was held out of practices this week week but is still expected to start.
Starting FS Madieu Williams (probable-bruised thigh) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
DETROIT LIONS (2-13) AT DALLAS COWBOYS (9-6) 1:00 PM EST
LIONS
Saturday Update: Starting WR Mike Furrey's incredible season will reach new heights tomorrow when he cracks the 1,000-yard mark and over 90 catches. The fact that a guy who was the Rams starting free safety last year could change positions and excel at that level is amazing. The question now is will another team sign him as a wide receiver in free agency?
Furrey's finest year as a receiver came with the New York Dragons of the AFL when he had over 1,500 yards in a season.
Friday Update: The Lions placed starting CB Fernando Bryant (concussion) on IR Wednesday. He had returned to practice fully last week for the first time since being injured Dec. 3 but didn't play vs. the Bears as it was deemed too risky. Backup CB Stanley Wilson has started for Bryant the last three weeks and will do so again Sunday in Dallas.
Veteran TE Casey FitzSimmons (separated shoulder) is out for the season finale and didn't practice this week.
Starting LG Ross Verba (groin) was placed on IR Friday. He was injured two weeks ago and finishes his injury-plagued season with seven starts. With he and Bryant going on IR this week, that makes 16 players placed on IR.
Backup OL Stephen Peterman, who was promoted from the practice squad two weeks ago, and rookie OL Frank Davis will start at guard Sunday once again, leaving veteran OL Rick DeMulling to come in off the bench if needed.
To replace Verba on the roster, the Lions signed DE Claude Harriott from their practice squad. CB Dee McCann was signed off the practice squad Wednesday to replace Bryant on the roster.
Backup LB Teddy Lehman (hamstring) and KR/PR/WR Eddie Drummond (ankle) are both listed as questionable.
Lehman has missed the last four games but returned to practice each day this week for the first time since suffering the injury. Drummond, who didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday, did work out on Friday, making it more possible that he can play Sunday. He was inactive last week and rookie WR DeVale Ellis took over his return duties, bringing back six kickoffs for 139 yards and four punts for 61 yards.
Veteran TE Marcus Pollard (hamstring-probable) returned to action last week after missing the game Dec. 17 and practiced fully this week and is expected to play.
COWBOYS
Saturday Update: We found it interesting this week when his team was fighting for playoff position that starting WR Terrell Owens would take this opportunity to talk about how difficult it's been for him to play through injuries.
"You guys would have never known, so I'm not going to make an excuse about my finger," said Owens on Thursday. "My finger's jacked up, that's just the nature of it. It is what it is. If I was going to make an excuse, I would have had the surgery, then I wouldn't be sitting here talking about this."
If that wasn't enough Owens took it one step further.
"If it was anybody else gutting it out with the way my hand is, I'm guaranteeing you that they would be probably be saying that he's a warrior, he's sucking it up for the team," Owens said. "But just because it's me, that's not going to be the case. I understand that. Is it fair? No. But you know what, I have to live with that."
Sounds like Owens misses the attention he once received for breaking his ankle and making that super-human comeback in time to play and star in the Super Bowl.
If the Cowboys are going to get backup FS Tony Parrish involved, this should be the week. He's been inactive since signing with Dallas. Parrish has been a strong safety his entire career.
Friday Update: Backup DE Kenyon Coleman will likely see more playing time than usual as a nickel pass rusher. Their pass rush has been weak since starting OLB Greg Ellis was lost for the season.
Backup DT Jay Ratliff (shoulder-questionable) practiced Friday. His status is considered to be a game day decision.
Dime CB Jacques Reeves (elbow-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available for the game.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-11) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (5-10) 1:00 PM EST
BROWNS
Saturday Update: The Browns injury problems started in their very first practice in training camp whenstarting C LeCharles Bentley suffered a season ending knee injury on the first play. Yesterday, the club placed starting G Cosey Coleman on IR bringing the list of players placed on injured reserve by the browns this year to 16.
Look for rookie WR Travis Wilson to finally see playing time on Sunday. Wilson has been inactive for 12 games this season and only has one catch. He impressed us with his performance during Senior Bowl week practices but he signed late and fell behind and never moved up the depth chart.
Friday Update: Starting QB Charlie Frye (right wrist-questionable) did some very light throwing on Friday. There's a chance that he dresses for the game but backup QBKen Dorsey is expected to start.
“It isn’t very likely," Frye said Friday about playing.
Starting TE Kellen Winslow (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Joe Jurevicius (concussion) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and isn't expected to play. Backup WR Dennis Northcutt (shoulder-questionable) didn't practice Friday because of his shoulder and now quadriceps injury. His status is considered a game-time decision. WR Kendrick Mosley was signed off of the practice squad Friday to provide some depth. Starting WR Braylon Edwards will play a lot on Sunday and will probably start due to the injury problems at the position. Edwards was late for a team meeting last week and didn't play until the second quarter. KR/PR Josh Cribbs will see extra reps at receiver and rookie WRTravis Wilson should see some playing time on Sunday.
Starting G Joe Andruzzi (knee) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Starting G Cosey Coleman (ankle) was placed on IR Friday. Backup OL Lennie Friedman will start for Coleman and rookie OL Rob Smith may start for the Coleman.
Starting DE Alvin McKinley (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Backup DL Nick Eason (foot) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable and is expected to start again for him.
Starting ILB Andra Davis (concussion) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to put. Backup ILB Chaun Thompson (thumb) practiced again Friday and was upgraded to probable from questionable and is expected to start for Davis again.
Starting CB Leigh Bodden (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful. Backup CB Ralph Brown is expected to start again for him.
TEXANS
Saturday Update: So much has been made about the team selecting DE Mario Williams in the draft over some notable offensive talent but nobody has given the Texans their due for drafting MLB Demeco Ryans in the second round. He leads the team with 145 tackles and looks like he's going to be a stud. Ryans is a bit small for an inside player but he plays bigger than his listed size and has held up well physically this season. That's impressive when you consider he'll have played in 20 games this season which is much more than he played in any season in college.
Friday Update:Starting RB Ron Dayne (ankle-probable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
Starting TE Owen Daniels (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play. Backup TEs Mark Bruener and Jeb Putzier would fill in again if needed.
Starting DE Mario Williams (foot-probable) was able to practice some Friday and is expected to start.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (8-7) AT KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
JAGUARS
Saturday Update: Starting FS Deon Grant (hamstring-questionable) practiced on Friday and expects to start.
"I opened it up (ran full speed) and it didn't pull on me, so I think we'll be all right for Sunday," Grant said.
Starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) practiced but didn't test it the way Grant did.
"I haven't opened it up, but I feel confident about it," Taylor said. "It's feeling better this week than it felt the week leading into the Tennessee game (when he aggravated the injury)."
Friday Update: Starting RB Fred Taylor (right hamstring) remains one of nine players listed as probable heading into the team's regular season finale in Kansas City.
Taylor, who has 1,102 yards rushing this season practiced each day this week after sitting out last Sunday's game vs. New England and is on track to start barring a setback. He had aggravated a strain in his hamstring early in the game Dec. 17.
Taylor was replaced last week by rookie RB Maurice Jones-Drew (knee-probable), who did limited work Wednesday but got full days of work in on Thursday and Friday. Jones-Drew, who has 895 yards rushing and 12 TDs, has been hobbled of late also by a sore calf but had a big game vs. the Patriots with 19 carries for 131 yards and two scores, plus six catches for 41 yards. Jones-Drew is expected to handle his usual role on Sunday.
Jacksonville will be without backup OT Stockar McDougle (chest-out) vs. the Chiefs but the chances of having starting FS Deon Grant (strained hamstring) increased Friday when he practiced for the first time this week and was upgraded from doubtful to questionable. Rookie free agent S Jamal Fudge would get the start if Grant is unable to play.
Backup DT Tony McDaniel (hip-questionable) practiced each day this week but still might not be active. He's missed the last four games.
Among the other eight players listed as probable are starters QB David Garrard (hamstring), DT Marcus Stroud (right ankle), and FB Derrick Wimbush (ankle).
Stroud has rested at least one day in many of the last weeks (rested Wednesday and Thursday of this week) but hasn't missed game-time since October, while Garrard and Wimbush practiced fully each day this week and will be in their usual spots Sunday.
The others listed as probable are #3 WR Matt Jones (hamstring), dime CBAhmad Carroll (illness), P Chris Hanson (left hamstring), and backup OLB Jorge Cordova (hamstring) - all four practiced fully each day this week with the exception of Carroll, who was added Thursday when he sat out with the flu. He returned to practice Friday but remains listed on the injury report. All of those players are expected to be available for the game.
Starting CB Rashean Mathis (illness) was removed from the injury report on Thursday. He sat out Wednesday's session with the flu.
CHIEFS
Saturday Update: Both of these teams head into Sunday as near misses for the playoffs. They both controlled their own playoff destinies before recent losses put them in a position where they need a win and a prayer to get into the playoffs. Nevertheless, head coach Herm Edwards did a good job in his first season, which was spent with QB Damon Huard as his starter for eight games.
With the Jags coming to town Chief fans are once again reminded that Kansas City traded up in the first round of the 2002 draft to take DT Ryan Sims, who has 7 tackles this year and 74 in his not so bright five year career. Three picks later the Jags took future Pro Bowl DT John Henderson.
Starting ORT Kyle Turley (shoulder) was placed on IR.
Friday Update: Backup RB Michael Bennett (ankle-questionable) missed practice Friday. His status will be decided on Sunday. #3 RB Dee Brown would fill in again if needed.
Backup TE Jason Dunn (back) missed practice again Friday and remains questionable to play.
Starting ORT Kyle Turley (shoulder) remains out. Backup OL John Welbourn starts again for him.
ST. LOUIS RAMS (7-8) AT MINNESOTA VIKINGS (6-9) 1:00 PM EST
RAMS
Saturday Update: Starting QB Marc Bulger cracked the 4,000-yard passing mark for the first time in his career last week and he should throw the ball all over the field against the Viking secondary tomorrow.
As Viking team insider, "tell your subscribers to start their Ram receivers and Bulger on their fantasy teams."
It will be interesting to see what the Rams do with #3 WR Kevin Curtis who is set to become an unrestricted free agent in March. With starting WR Isaac Bruce finding a fountain of youth this season, the Rams can't justify placing their franchise tag on Curtis for him to come off the bench again.
Friday Update:Starting FB Paul Smith (neck-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup FB Madison Hedgecock to start again for him.
Starting WR Torry Holt (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting DT La'Roi Glover (ribs-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting DE Victor Adeyanju (forearm) was downgraded to questionable on Friday despite practicing. Backup DE Brandon Green would start if needed.
"We'll make the decision on Victor on gameday," said head coach Scott Linehan after Friday's practice. "He seemed okay with his cast. We downgraded him just because the cast he's had hasn't been very functional, but I think he's more comfortable with the way we have it now."
Starting DE Leonard Little (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting MLB Will Witherspoon (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
VIKINGS
Saturday Update: The 2006 Vikings met their Waterloo in week eight when they were thoroughly exposed by the New England Patriots in a 31-7 thrashing that would leave their offense reeling for the rest of the season. The biggest off-season decision that will need to be made is who will their starting QB be for 2007? Tarvaris Jackson gets one more chance to prove he should be considered for the job tomorrow. Viking fans won't be patient for another season. After all, this was a 9-7 team vying for a playoff spot in week 17 last year.
Friday Update: Starting QB Tarvaris Jackson (knee-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start. Backup QB Brooks Bollinger (shoulder-probable) practiced some again Friday but is expected to handle the #3 role again.
Starting RB Chester Taylor (ribs-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
FB Jeff Dugan (foot-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Troy Williamson (hamstring-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Veteran TE Jim Kleinsasser (elbow-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting MLB Napoleon Harris (dislocated wrist-probable) practiced some again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup CB Charles Gordonis expected to start for CB Cedric Griffin (neck-IR).
P Chris Kluwe (hamstring-probable) is expected to start.
CAROLINA PANTHERS (7-8) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (10-5) 1:00 PM EST
PANTHERS
Saturday Update: The Panthers ran the ball 52 times last week and attempted just 7 passes. This week the offense will be much different and we expect them to try t get their passing game going with starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-probable) returning to the lineup and playing in front of his hometown fans.
Friday Update: Starting QB Jake Delhomme (right thumb-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #2 QB Chris Weinke (chest-probable) practiced again Friday and will be available for the game if needed.
Backup RB Nick Goings (chest-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
#3 WR Drew Carter (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. Backup WR Keary Colbert is expected to be active Sunday to replace Carter again.
Starting SLB Thomas Davis (shoulder) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play. Rookie LB James Anderson is expected to start for him.
SAINTS
Saturday Update: While the Saints will rest many of their offensive starters tomorrow it will be interesting to see how many defensive players they sit. The Saints are coming off their best effort of the season, holding the Giants to seven points last week and never allowing them to run a play in Saints territory. They held New York to just 142 total yards.
We're told the following players will be inactive on Sunday: starting RBDeuce McAllister (rest), backup RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring-doubtful), backup WR Terrance Copper (foot-doubtful), starting TE Mark Campbell (knee), and starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-doubtful).
They'll get starting DT Hollis Thomas back for the playoffs but they haven't surrendered more than 17 points since he was suspended for violating the league's substance abuse policy.
The team is treating this game, we're told, like a pre-season game so look for Starting QB Drew Brees, rookie RB Reggie Bush, and starting WRMarques Colson to play sparingly. Probably between a quarter and a half at the most. Backup RB Jamaal Branch could get an extended looked in the game. Backup QB Jamie Martin could play a lot and backup WRs Devery Henderson and Jamal Jones are expected to see a lot of playing time.
The team waived backup K Billy Cundiff and re-signed backup RB Fred McAfee.
Friday Update: With the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs locked up, head coach Sean Payton is expected to give several starters rest in Sunday's gave vs. the Panthers. Payton isn't saying who will play how much, however.
One player almost surely not to play is starting WR Joe Horn (groin-doubtful). He hasn't played since a failed attempt to work into action Dec. 3 but has increased his running activities on the side in the last week and is expected back for the playoffs. Horn also missed the first two games of November with a strained groin but started in the next three contests after that span. Having him miss this week's game will give him an additional two weeks of rest.
The Saints have started in a three-receiver set in two of the last three weeks with #4 WR Terrance Copper and #3 WR Devery Henderson on the field alongside rookie WR Marques Colston. Copper (foot) is one of three players downgraded from questionable to doubtful on Friday. He didn't practice this week.
Jamal Jones is the only other true receiver on the roster, so he may be called on Sunday. Veteran KR/PR Michael Lewis can play receiver but he's more of a return specialist at this point in his career.
The three other players listed on the injury report are starting TE Mark Campbell (knee-doubtful), starting SS Omar Stoutmire (knee-doubtful), and backup RB Aaron Stecker (hamstring-doubtful). None of the three practiced this week and Campbell and Stoutmire were the other players downgraded Friday. Stecker was downgraded on Thursday, has been bothered by his hamstring for weeks but did play last Sunday for the first time in several games.
Campbell returned to the lineup last week and was joined in a two-tight end alignment to start the game by backup TE Billy Miller.
Stoutmire still hasn't practiced since getting hurt three weeks ago. Backup S Steve Gleason started Dec. 17 and backup S Jay Bellamy was in the lineup a week ago.
OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-13) AT NEW YORK JETS (9-6) 1:00 PM EST
RAIDERS
Saturday Update: How badly do the Raiders want the first pick in the draft? Well when you consider that they've owned the second pick twice in the last ten years and ended up with OLT Robert Gallery and the late Darrell Russell, you could see why they might be a little troubled about that spot.
OLT Orlando Pace was drafted ahead of Russell. QB Eli Manning was picked ahead of Gallery and WR Larry Fitzgerald and QB Philip Rivers were taken just after him.
Friday Update:Starting QB Aaron Brooks (neck-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting RB LaMont Jordan (knee) was placed on IR Friday. Backup RB Justin Fargas starts for him.
Starting FB Zack Crockett (heel-questionable) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Randy Moss (ankle) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to doubtful and won't play with backup WR Johnnie Morant starting again for him. Backup WR Jerry Porter (hip) was placed on IR Friday.
Starting OLT Robert Gallery (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting Kevin Boothe (elbow-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting CB Fabian Washington (shoulder-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
The team signed S Hiram Eugene and TE Derek Miller off of the practice squad on Friday.
JETS
Saturday Update: Starting CB Andre Dyson (knee-questionable) is not expected to play but starting RB Cedric Houston (calf-questionable) is expected to play. We'll confirm his status at least an hour before game time
It will be interesting to see what the Jets do about their running back position going into next season. Veteran RB Kevan Barlow has been a disappointment and while Houston has flashed some skills, it remains to be seen if he can carry the load for an entire season. Rookie RB Leon Washington hasn't shown yet that he can consistently carry the ball a lot.
Friday Update:Starting QB Chad Pennington (calf-probable) practiced again Friday and will start.
RB Cedric Houston (calf-questionable) was limited again Friday but should be able to play this week and likely will handle more than half of the carries. Backup RB Kevan Barlow's (thigh-questionable) status remains a game day decision. Rookie RB Leon Washington will handle the carries that Houston doesn't handle and he'll also see time in passing situations.
Starting FB B.J. Askew (foot-questionable) was limited on Friday but should play. Backup FB James Hodgins (questionable-knee) probably won't play.
Starting WR Laveranues Coles (head-questionable) was limited Friday but should be able to start. If not, backup WR Justin McCareins would start.
Veteran CB David Barrett (hip-questionable) didn't practice on Friday, but should be able to play a limited role, like he has all year. Journeyman CB Hank Poteat has been starting of late. But the Jets might need Barrett to play more this week with the injury to starting CB Andre Dyson (knee-questionable). Dyson hurt his knee in the second half against Miami, and needed help off the field. He didn't practice Friday and likely won't play.
Backup S Eric Smith (foot-questionable) didn't practice on Thursday, but will likely play. He is one of the Jets best special teams player, and is rotating in at safety. He played with this injury last week.
Starting SS Kerry Rhodes (knee-questionable) was limited all week but is still expected to start. Smith would start if needed.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (8-7) AT TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (4-11) 1:00 PM EST
SEAHAWKS
Saturday Update: Backup WRs D.J. Hackett and Bobby Engram could be bigger factors tomorrow especially since the Buccaneer CB's are weak once you get past Ronde Barber, who should spend most of his time with starting WR Deion Branch.
Friday Update: Starting WR Darrell Jackson (turf toe-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and is not expected to play. The team opened up with a three-receiver set last week with backup WRs D.J. Hackett and Bobby Engram starting.
Starting C Robbie Tobeck (hip) was a surprise upgrade from out to probable on Friday despite not practicing. Tobeck has been cleared medically to play but since he's lost to much weight, he's unlikely to play. Backup C Chris Spencer will start again for him.
Starting G Chris Gray (thigh) missed practice again Friday and was downgraded to questionable. Starting G Floyd Womack will likely move over to start for him. Rookie G Rob Sims will start in Womack's LG spot.
Starting DT Rocky Bernard (foot-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup MLB Niko Koutouvides (Ankle) practiced Friday and is expected to be available for the game.
Starting CB Marcus Trufant (ankle-doubtful) has a high-ankle sprain and won't play this week and didn't practice at all. First-round pick CB Kelly Jennings will make his first pro start.
BUCCANEERS
Saturday Update: 8 of their 10 draft picks made the roster this year and 4 of them have received starts. Unfortunately, one of those rookies was QB Bruce Gradkowski, who received too much playing time in a lost season. The pressure is mounting on head coach Jon Gruden and he'll need to get back to winning ways by next season or he will be looking for a new home. The Glazer's didn't expect their 11-5 team of 2005 to finish at 4-12 or 5-11 this season.
Friday Update:Tampa Bay placed rookies DL Julian Jenkins and CB Alan Zemaitis on IR Friday.
Jenkins played in 12 games this season, totaling nine tackles, along with one special teams tackle. He was drafted by the team in the fifth round (156th overall).
Zemaitis was a fourth-round selection (122nd overall) by the Buccaneers. A three-year starter at Penn State, he was a second-team All-America selection as a senior. He did not see action with the Buccaneers in 2006.
"It's been an ongoing injury that he's had. After further diagnosis, I think all the heads got together and decided the best thing to do was get this thing fixed as soon as we can so he can get back ready to roll in the off-season program," said head coach Jon Gruden in discussing Zemaitis' injury.
Meanwhile, the Buccaneers signed RB Lionel Gates to the active roster. Gates was signed to the practice squad on Sept. 3. He entered the league as a 2005 seventh-round pick with the Buffalo Bills. He was released by the Bills prior to the regular season on Sept. 2.
Starting RB Cadillac Williams (foot-questionable) missed his sixth straight practice and is not expected to play. Look for backup RB Michael Pittman to start again for him with starting FB Mike Alstott and backup RB Earnest Graham backing him up.
"If he can play, he's playing. It he can't, he won't. Right now, it doesn't appear that he's ready to go," Gruden said.
Gates could even be active for Sunday considering the team's uncertain situation in the backfield.
"Given the injuries that we have at this point, we might need Lionel Gates," said Gruden. "You never know if someone's going to show up to the hotel sick (on Saturday night). Some emergency could happen, so you've got to cover your bases."
#2 TE Alex Smith (back) was able to practice Friday after missing the previous two days. He was subsequently upgraded from doubtful to questionable. Smith suffered his back injury against Cleveland.
Gruden said Smith is, "still very questionable."
Starting G Davin Joseph (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Nickel CB Juran Bolden (quadriceps-questionable) and backup WLB Jamie Winborn (knee-questionable) both practiced Friday and are expected to fill their usual roles on Sunday.
Starting DT Ellis Wyms (ankle) and starting SS Jermaine Phillips (wrist) practiced again Friday. Though both players are listed as questionable, we expect both of them to start, barring a setback.
The roster stands at 52 players. The team could still sign a 53rd player on Saturday and have him be eligible for Sunday's season finale against the Seahawks.
"We're going to play the guys that give us a chance to win. We've got a lot of other guys that have a lot invested too. We need our best players to win. We're not our here for the hell of it," Gruden said.
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (11-4) AT TENNESSEE TITANS (8-7) 1:00 PM EST
PATRIOTS
Saturday Update: There have been way too many rumors in the media about head coach Bill Belichick possibly leaving New England after this season. Many of these rumors were probably started by wishful Giant fans who are tired of hearing the praise that's being bestowed on Belichick's protégé, Eric Mangini in the New York area.
Belichick is under contract with the Patriots past this season. If he is to leave for another team after this season the Pats would need to trade his rights…and why would they ever want to do that?
Friday Update:Starting QB Tom Brady (right shoulder-probable) practiced fully Friday. practiced fully today after missing most of Wednesday and Thursday's work. He's expected to start but how long he plays hasn't been made known. Last year in week 17 against the Dolphins, Brady played just one quarter and left after throwing an 11-yard TD pass to WR Deion Branch with a minute left in the first quarter.
Head coach Bill Belichick hasn't given any indication about playing time for this game, but last year in the regular season finale some starters came out relatively early and some played the whole game. That's a likely scenario once again.
#2 QB Matt Cassel, who took most of the first-team reps in practice this week, would be next off the bench.
Backup RB Kevin Faulk (knee-questionable) practiced Friday and should play.
#2 TE Ben Watson (knee) practiced some again Friday but remains questionable to play. Rookie TE David Thomas has filled in him since he got hurt.
Starting CB Chad Scott (back) practiced and but remains questionable to play. Nickel CB Ellis Hobbs (wrist-probable), who was one of three players to practice fully without missing a snap Thursday, backs up Scott.
Starting DT Vince Wilfork (ankle) saw some time in practice again Friday but remains questionable to play. Backup DL Mike Wright (shoulder-questionable) practiced and is ready to fill in again if needed.
Backup S Rashad Baker (thigh), backup WR Brandon Childress (ankle) and backup ORT Ryan O'Callaghan (neck) all practiced Friday but remain questionable to play. Backup OT Nick Kaczur has been starting for O'Callaghan since the mid-season point.
Starting DE Richard Seymour (elbow-probable) and starting SS Rodney Harrison (shoulder-probable) practiced fully again Friday and are expected to start.
TITANS
Saturday Update: During the Titans current six-game winning streak, starting QB Vince Young has engineered four 4th quarter come from behind victories, the most recent last week in Buffalo when the trailed the Bills 29-20 entering the fourth quarter. Most head coaches would say that's the final test for a young signal caller. When your team is trailing can you lead them to victory. Young has proven he can, which is why Tennessee is one of the biggest surprises of the 2006 season. This is a team that nobody wants to play.
Friday Update:As its improbable march to a possible playoff berth continues, the team has seven players listed as questionable, including starting RB Travis Henry (ankle). He was also listed last week when he rushed 25 times for 135 yards. He rested Wednesday but got full days of work in on Thursday and Friday and is expected to start.
Also listed on the injury report are starting DT Robaire Smith (toe), #3 WR Bobby Wade (ankle), backup DT Tony Brown (ankle), starting TEBo Scaife (ankle), backup FB/TE Casey Cramer (neck), and starting DE Travis LaBoy (knee).
Brown injured his right knee in Wednesday's practice and was taken off the field. He sat out Thursday's session but returned to practice on Friday. If he can't play, rookie DT Jesse Mahelona would be active and see action.
Scaife practiced Thursday and Friday for the first time in almost three weeks and has a chance to play. Backup TE Ben Hartsock started for him the last two weeks.
Cramer and Wade worked Friday for the first time this week Friday after sitting out Wednesday and Thursday.
LaBoy has missed days or practice from time to time of late but he didn't practice at all this week, as did Smith. LaBoy started last week.
Starting CB Reynaldo Hill (ankle) isn't listed on the injury report. He missed parts of practice last week but started Sunday and is practicing fully this week, as is starting WR Drew Bennett (knee), who has rested a day or two in recent weeks but hasn't missed any playing time. Bennett was limited on Thursday.
BUFFALO BILLS (7-8) AT BALTIMORE RAVENS (12-3) 1:00 PM EST
BILLS
Saturday Update: The Bills have three difficult free agent decisions to make in the off-season.
Starters CB Nate Clements, DE Chris Kelsay, and MLB London Fletcher will all be free agents. Clements is in line for a huge payday, which usually means leaving small markets like Buffalo. Fletcher has led the team in tackles all five years he's been there but he's also a reason why their run defense has struggled this season. Fletcher is too small and turns 32 in May. He's unlikely to get a big free agent deal elsewhere.
Kelsay has been part of a very good three-end rotation that has combined for 25.5 sacks this year. He's the most likely to re-sign with the club.
Friday Update: Starting FB Daimon Shelton (concussion) was placed on IR Friday. Replacing him on the roster was WR George Wilson from the practice squad.
Starting S Donte Whitner (probable-toe) was able to practice Friday and is expected to start. If for some reason he couldn't play, backup S Jim Leonhard is his expected replacement.
Backup OL Aaron Merz was excused for family reasons, but is expected to make the trip this weekend.
RAVENS
Saturday Update: You can't say enough about the season that the Raven defense has had. They're the only NFL team that his given up fewer than 200 points this season and they have the best turnover ratio in the league at plus-15.
Friday Update: Starting WR Mark Clayton (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #3 WR Demetrius Williams (knee) was added to the injury report as probable but was able to practice Friday and is expected to play.
Backup TE Daniel Wilcox (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Starting OLT Jonathan Ogden (toe-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and since he can't run, he won't be able to play. Backup OT Adam Terry will start for him again.
Starting G Keydrick Vincent (groin-questionable) missed practice again Friday. Rookie OL Chris Chester would start for him if needed.
"We'll have to see," head coach Brian Billick said after Friday's practice. "He's moving along better. We'll see Sunday. He'll be a game-time decision."
Vincent has been bothered by groin problems at different points of the season.
"I'm feeling a little bit better. It sucks. I was able to do some stuff today. It's getting there," Vincent said after Friday's practice.
Rookie OL Chris Chester would start for him. Starting G Jason Brown (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Adalius Thomas (ankle-questionable) was limited all week in practice but is still expected to start.
Starting SLB Bart Scott (ankle-probable) was limited Friday but is expected to start.
MIAMI DOLPHINS (6-9) AT INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (11-4) 4:15 PM EST
DOLPHINS
Saturday Update: Head coach Nick Saban left the possibility that veteran QB Joey Harrington could still play tomorrow in relief of QBCleo Lemon who is set to make his first NFL start.
Starting MLB Zach Thomas was fined $7,500 for his helmet-to-helmet hit on Jet WR Laveranues Coles last week. Coles missed the rest of the first half after the hit but returned to the game in the second half.
Friday Update: Starting RB Ronnie Brown (broken hand-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Marty Booker (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is likely to start. Backup WR Wes Welker would start again if needed.
Starting DT Keith Traylor (knee-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play. Backup DT Jeff Zgonina is expected to start for him.
Starting CB Travis Daniels (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. The team is thin on depth because backup CB Eddie Jackson(knee) was placed on IR this week. Backup CB Michael Lehan will handle the nickel role.
Starting FS Renaldo Hill (wrist-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S Travares Tillman (hamstring-questionable) missed practice again Friday and likely won't play.
COLTS
Saturday Update: Starting RB Dominic Rhodes (wrist/ankle) was upgraded to probable on Saturday and is expected to start.
At this point, K Adam Vinatieri (left knee-probable) is expected to start.
Friday Update: K Adam Vinatieri injured his left knee during Friday's practice and was added to the injury report as probable. His status will be updated after Saturday morning's walk-through. The team has until 4:00 pm est to sign a replacement if needed.
Starting RB Dominic Rhodes (ankle-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
#3 WR Ricky Proehl (hamstring-questionable) missed practice again Friday as did starting FS Bob Sanders (knee-questionable).
"Ricky probably won't go and Bob Sanders is the same way. But we haven't ruled them totally out yet," head coach Tony Dungy said after Friday's practice.
Starting TE Dallas Clark (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to see some playing time on Sunday. The coaches will make a decision closer to game time if he or backup TE Ben Utecht will start.
Starting G Ryan Lilja (knee-out) will be replaced by backup G Dylan Gandy.
Starting DE Dwight Freeney (shoulder-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting SLB Rob Morris (leg) was rested on Friday.
"He strained a muscle in (Thursday's) practice. And he feels like he is going to be okay. We wanted to rest him (Friday) just to give him one extra day of rest. But he's planning on going (against Miami)," Dungy said.
Backup SLB Gilbert Gardner (illness-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
Sanders should be replaced by backup DB Marlin Jackson again. Jackson was limited by the flu Thursday but he was able to practice on Friday.
Backup CB Kelvin Hayden (concussion-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
ATLANTA FALCONS (7-8) AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (9-6) 4:15 PM EST
FALCONS
Saturday Update: Although there's a 100:1 chance the team can make the playoffs, this could be head coach Jim Mora's last game with the Falcons. A disappointing season filled with turmoil will end tomorrow. While Mora is a very good coach the personnel decisions made by this team eventually doomed them to failure. None of the high-priced free agents they brought in panned out and their choice of wide receivers in the draft absolutely killed them.
Backup CB Jason Webster (groin) was placed on IR.
Friday Update: Starting WR Ashley Lelie (out) will miss the regular season finale with a separated shoulder suffered in the third quarter Sunday while diving for a deep pass. #3 WR Roddy White will start for him with rookie WR Adam Jennings handling the #3 role.
Former starting CB Jason Webster's season is likely over as well, as he has been downgraded to doubtful this week after having the team expressed optimism last week that he may be able to see some time. He's been out since October with a torn groin muscle and can practice, but can't go enough at full-speed to play. Rookie CB Jimmy Williams is now starting.
Starting MLB Ed Hartwell (knee-probable) was added to the injury report Thursday when he sat out his second straight day but he was upgraded Friday after getting a full workout in. If Hartwell can't play, head coach Jim Mora said he would simply insert backup MLB Jordan Beck inside and keep starting WLB Keith Brooking, who has moved to MLB three times previously when Hartwell was hurt, in his normal position.
Starting SLB Michael Boley (hamstring-probable) was also upgraded from questionable Friday after he practiced for the first time this week. He had been downgraded from probable Thursday when he missed his second straight day of practice. Backup LB Ike Reese replaced Boley after he left last week's game and would start Sunday if Boley can't play.
The only other players listed are six probable starters - CB DeAngelo Hall (knee), RB Warrick Dunn (calf), DTs Grady Jackson (knee) and Rod Coleman (knee), TE Alge Crumpler (back) and ORT Todd Weiner(knee).
Crumpler was added Friday when he rested but he's expected to start.
Hall, Dunn, Jackson, and Coleman rested Wednesday but returned to practice Thursday and Friday, while Weiner only practiced on Friday this week.
Dunn was hurt three weeks ago but hasn't missed any game-time.
Rookie DE Paul Carrington started last week at RDE in place of John Abraham (torn ligaments in left thumb), who played in passing situations but was spotted in the rotation while recovering from surgery two weeks. Abraham practiced this week and isn't listed.
EAGLES
Saturday Update: The team reached a five-year contract extension late Friday night with starting LG Todd Herremans that will keep him in Philadelphia through 2013.
Herremans, a fourth round draft choice of the Eagles in 2005, becomes the eighth Eagles player to sign a long-term extension in the past six months. Also this year, the Eagles inked starting WR Reggie Brown (through 2014), starting DE Trent Cole (2013), starting DT Mike Patterson (2016), starting G Shawn Andrews (2015), starting C Jamaal Jackson (2013), starting FS Brian Dawkins(2008), and P Dirk Johnson (2011).
Herremans was projected to play tackle for the Eagles but moved to guard this season and it took him a while to get comfortable at the position which he had never played. He has steadily gotten better at the position and is one of the big reasons why their offensive line has become dominant of late.
The team tried to get him signed to an extension earlier this season but both sides were far apart. Herremans was told earlier this week that they team was interested in getting a deal done again and both sides were able to get a deal done late Friday evening.
Friday Update: Starting RB Brian Westbrook (virus-probable) missed his second straight day of practice with an illness on Friday, but head coach Andy Reid didn't seem too concerned.
Reid said he expects Westbrook to be fine by Saturday, when the team does its final walk-through in preparation for Sunday's game against the Falcons.
"He came in early today and met and got caught up on things, and it's just a matter of him getting rid of a virus that he has. He will be back tomorrow," Reid said.
Westbrook, who is averaging 5.1 yards per carry and 6 yards per touch, participated in Wednesday's practice before becoming ill.
Westbrook should be in the starting lineup Sunday and could even line up as the punt returner on occasion..
Starting TE L.J. Smith (toe-probable) practiced for a second straight day and is expected to start. Smith sprained his toe in the win over Dallas Monday. He left the game but later returned and finished with 77 receiving yards. Backup TE Matt Schobel replaced Smith after he left the game. He did return later to make that big catch.
On defense, starting CB Lito Sheppard (back-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Sheppard was sidelined Wednesday because of back spasms.
Backup CB William James (calf), backup SS Michael Lewis (knee), and backup LB/special teamer Dedrick Roper (knee) remain questionable for Sunday. James and Lewis haven't practiced all week, and Roper practiced only on Thursday.
Reid did not appear optimistic about their status for the game.
"I think the three (James, Lewis, and Roper) will be a struggle (to be able to play)," Reid said..
James strained his calf in pre-game warm-ups prior to the Giants game and hasn't practiced since. Backup CB Rod Hood figures to fill the role of the nickel back on Sunday.
Lewis has yet to practice since suffering an MCL sprain in his knee against the Giants on Dec. 17. Backup S Quintin Mikell was solid playing in place of Lewis against Dallas.
Roper suffered an MCL sprain Monday night.
Five other players round up the team's injury report, including starting RG Shawn Andrews (collarbone), starting C Jamaal Jackson (ankle), backup CB/special teamer Bruce Perry (hamstring), backup WLB Shawn Barber (neck), and starting MLB Jeremiah Trotter (knee). All are expected to be available in their usual roles on Sunday after practicing Friday.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (6-9) AT DENVER BRONCOS (9-6) 4:15 PM EST
49ERS
Saturday Update: Starting SS Mark Roman (ankle-probable), who won the job from Tony Parrish, was rewarded with a new three-year contract extension. Roman came into the league as a 2nd-round pick of the Bengals in 2000.
Friday Update:Starting OLT Jonas Jennings (shoulder) was downgraded to doubtful after not practicing again Friday. Look for backup OT Adam Snyder to start for him.
Starting MLB Derek Smith (hamstring) was downgraded back to questionable on Friday although he was able to practice. He was a little more limited in Thursday's practice. The team is calling his status now a game-time decision. Backup MLB/ILB Jeff Ulbrich would fill in if needed.
Starting SS Mark Roman (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BRONCOS
Saturday Update: After a four-game losing streak ended their chances of competing for a division title, the Broncos have strung two wins together against weak defensive teams.
Tomorrow's test against San Francisco won't be much greater for Jay Cutler but it will be the final test for the young QB before he really steps up in competition in the first round of the playoffs. Cutler should get plenty of chances to throw the ball making him a decent fantasy starter in week 17. Cutler has a realistic chance to be a top-10 fantasy QB next year when you look at the talent around him and head coach Mike Shanahan is willing to let him throw the ball down field consistently which he wasn't willing to do with QB Jake Plummer.
Friday Update :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 C Tom Nalen (ankle-probable) practiced again Thursday and is expected to start.
K Jason Elam (left hamstring-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting MLB Al Wilson (back/thumb-questionable) practiced some Friday but his status remains a game-time decision. The weather conditions could play a factor. He'll try to loosen up his back during pre-game warmups. Backup MLB Nate Webster would start if needed. Backup LB/special teams ace Keith Burns (hand-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
Backup S Steve Cargile (ankle-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
ARIZONA CARDINALS (5-10) AT SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (13-2) 4:15 PM EST
CARDINALS
Saturday Update: Starting CB David Macklin and PR/backup WR Troy Walters (ankle) were placed on IR. Three practice squad players (WRs Micheal Spurlock andTodd Watkins and QB Shane Boyd) were signed to the active roster. Giving three practice squad players a uniform as a reward for their hard work is a nice gesture by head coach Dennis Green.
Friday Update: Starting QB Matt Leinart (left shoulder) is out with backup QB Kurt Warner starting for him.
Starting WR Anquan Boldin (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. #3 WR Bryant Johnson (hip-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. #4 WR/PR Troy Walters (ankle-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and is not expected to play. Johnson is expected to return punts on Sunday.
Backup OT Oliver Ross (illness-probable) practiced Friday and is expected to play.
Starting MLB Gerald Hayes (ribs-doubtful) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup MLB Monty Beisel starting again for him.
Starting SS Adrian Wilson (illness-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start. Backup S/special teams ace Hanik Milligan (knee) was added to the injury report as probable but is expected to play.
Starting CB David Macklin (hamstring-doubtful) missed practice again Thursday and isn't expected to play with nickel CB Eric Green starting for him. Starting CB Antrel Rolle (toe-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
CHARGERS
Saturday Update: Starting OLB Shawne Merriman has 16 sacks in 11 games but even though his stats dictate that he should earn Defensive Player of the Year honors, he won't get the award. That honor is likely to go to Dolphins DE Jason Taylor. The message alone will say enough. Players who test positive for an illegal substance or steroids are not forgiven easily.
Friday Update: Starting WR/PR Eric Parker (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play. #3 WR Vincent Jackson (hamstring-questionable) practiced Friday and is expected to play. Whether Parker or Jackson starts is considered a game-time decision.
Starting OLT Marcus McNeill (neck-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Backup G Scott Mruczkowski (knee-questionable) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available if needed for the game.
Starting DE Luis Castillo (ankle-questionable) missed practice again Friday and isn't expected to play with backup DE Jacques Cesaire starting again for him. Backup DE Derreck Robinson (foot-doubtful) missed practiced all week and isn't expected to play.
Starting ILB Randall Godfrey (hamstring-questionable) missed practice Friday and probably won't play. Backup ILB Stephen Cooper will likely start again for him.
Starting OLB Shawne Merriman (illness) was added to the injury report as probable Friday but is expected to start.
Backup FS Bhawoh Jue (knee-probable) practiced again Friday and is expected to play.
GREEN BAY PACKERS (7-8) AT CHICAGO BEARS (13-2) 8:20 PM EST
PACKERS
Saturday Update: To make the playoffs, the Packers need:
A win + Giants loss + Rams loss or
A win+ Giants loss + Panthers win or
A win + Giants loss + Falcons win or
Friday Update: Starting RB Ahman Green (probable-knee) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
Starting WR Donald Driver (probable-shoulder) missed practiced again Friday but was not downgraded on the injury report and is still expected to start.
"He's fought through it for a month now," head coach Mike McCarthy said on Friday. "As we all know Donald, we anticipate him going and playing well and finishing the game."
With Driver out this week for practice, that gave extra practice time to the younger receivers.
"It's a combination, just giving Donald extra time to get ready, and to rep the younger guys, because we do have a lot of youth there with (backup WR) Carlyle Holiday and (backup WR) Chris Francies and so forth," McCarthy added.
#2 TE David Martin (questionable-ribs) practiced again Friday and should be able to play.
Starting C Scott Wells (probable-shoulder) was added to the injury report after he missed practice on Friday. He's expected to start.
"It's something that's just been lingering, and frankly just to get the other young guys work. With the extra day of practice, Tuesday-Wednesday-Thursday, I thought it was smart on our part," the head coach said.
Starting DT Ryan Pickett (probable-foot) returned to practice Friday and is expected to start.
"He had some orthodics done yesterday, and he's going to be fine," McCarthy said.
Backup MLB Abdul Hodge (questionable-shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to be available if needed for the game.
Starting CB Charles Woodson (probable-shoulder) practiced again Friday and is expected to start.
BEARS
Saturday Update: We're told the team plans to play their starters similarly to last week's game. Probably about a half. Some starters will play a little more, some will play a little less.
Friday Update: The Bears will have starting DT Tank Johnson back from his one-game suspension Sunday but it's more likely that he'll return in a reserve role. Former starting DT Alfonso Boone and Ian Scott have played well in Johnson's absence and it's been reported that Johnson lost significant weight in the last two stress-filled weeks. Boone (toe) was added to the injury report as probable Thursday when he sat out practice, but was removed Friday when he worked fully. Smith was particularly complimentary of Scott's play this week, who is slated for unrestricted free agency and started the first four games of the year before making way for Johnson.
The only new injury the Bears suffered in Detroit last week was to starting FBJason McKie, who sprained his left ankle in the first half and didn't practice this week, prompting him to be downgraded from questionable to doubtful on Friday. The only other FB on the roster, rookie sixth-round pick J.D. Runnels has dressed for only one game all season, so #3 TE Gabe Reid could get the call if McKie isn't available, as he did vs. the Lions.
Also listed on the injury report are starting CB Charles Tillman (back-questionable), who didn't practice this week. He was replaced in the lineup last week by nickel CB Ricky Manning Jr., but isn't in any danger of missing any time in the playoffs even if he doesn't play Sunday.
Starting OLT John Tait (left ankle), starting RB Thomas Jones (ankle), and special teams LB Leon Joe (left hamstring-probable) were all removed from the injury report on Friday.
Tait has been replaced by backup OT John St. Clair the last two weeks but he returned to practice each day this week and could see some playing time to get the rust off from missing his first two games in several years.
Jones rested Wednesday but returned for full days of work Thursday and Friday. He's also been banged up with ribs and calf injuries the past few weeks. He left after their first offensive series in the third quarter last week and could see even less playing time this week.
Joe injured the hamstring on the game's opening kickoff in New England Nov. 26 and hasn't played since, although he began practicing again last Thursday. He also missed two games earlier in the season with a strain in his right hamstring.
Starting LG Ruben Brown (shoulder) was removed from the list Thursday when he returned to practice. He was listed as probable on Wednesday when he rested. He is one of the players likely to get an early exit Sunday with backup G Terence Metcalf probably the best bet to replace him.
Not listed on the injury report this week are starting CB Nathan Vasher (right hamstring) and starting SS Todd Johnson (right ankle). Each returned last week from being out for multiple games, although former starting S Chris Harris remained the starter ahead of Johnson.
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