Sports Channel News

Report: Tom Brady On Verge of Contract Extension With Patriots

The New England Patriots and Tom Brady appear close on a deal that would keep the quarterback in town through the 2013 season, the Boston Herald reported on its website on Monday.

The three-year extension would be worth about $58 million, sources with knowledge of the negotiations told the newspaper. Brady, who has led the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles, made $8 million in salary and bonuses in 2009, less than half under what he'll make annually under the new deal.

The Boston Herald said Brady hasn't formally agreed to the reworked contract, although both sides could come to terms within 24 hours.

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Tiger Woods Among Corey Pavin’s Ryder Cup Captain’s Choices

Filed under: Ryder Cup

Tiger Woods was named by Corey Pavin as one of the four "captain's choices" for the 2010 Ryder Cup on Tuesday morning.

Stewart Cink, Zach Johnson and Rickie Fowler (the first rookie to ever make the Ryder Cup team) joined Woods as well and all four men seemed particularly excited about the opportunity.

"It's really exciting for me, obviously, to be included on the team," Cink said. "I think this makes my third time getting picked [as a captain's choice] which is getting close to a record. Which means I must not be that good at qualifying."

Woods, however, hasn't exactly had that trouble -- he's typically the first guy locked into the Ryder Cup, but obviously this season was different. Pavin refused, however, to acknowledge that he'd been thinking about Tiger's inability to qualify on his own.

"Well, what I was trying to do was not form any opinions until almost this weekend," Pavin said. "I didn't want to overburden myself so I just waited and waited and waited. Tiger's one of 12 guys on the team, and everyone's as important as the other."

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Overheard and Understood: Cito Gaston Getting Off Managerial Carousel

Filed under: Blue Jays

One could not blame Cito Gaston, with the Blue Jays not in contention for the playoffs, if his mind occasionally wandered to thoughts of the Irish countryside, South African safaris or Sydney harbor.

But as the end of his managerial career approaches, Gaston claims no twinges of wistfulness nor sentimentality -- "So far I haven't," he told FanHouse last week.

There are indications Toronto will name its next manager within days of the season's end. Third-base coach Brian Butterfield deserves consideration -- if passed over, he could wind up coaching third in Baltimore for Buck Showalter, with whom he worked in New York and Arizona -- as does Yankees third-base coach and native Ontarian Rob Thomson. Red Sox bench coach DeMarlo Hale is thought to be on Toronto's list as well.

General manager Alex Anthopoulos said he hasn't had the managerial search on the front burner until now and wouldn't comment on candidates or timing.

"I'm just going to let the process play out," he said. "It's an important decision, and it can't be rushed. I think the timeline will determine itself."

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Ravens Trade Mark Clayton to Rams to Make Room for T.J. Houshmandzadeh

Filed under: Ravens, AFC North, NFL Training Camp

When T.J. Houshmandzadeh signed his one-year deal for the veteran minimum with the Baltimore Ravens on Monday after they set their 53-man roster on Saturday, no one realized that someone had to go. The last person that came to people's mind was a good man who was a friend to many and a major contributor to the communities of Baltimore City, wide receiver Mark Clayton. But football is still a business and changes have to be made.

"Mark is a good person who did everything he could to help the Ravens on and off the field," said Ravens' general manager and vice president Ozzie Newsome on Monday afternoon in a statement. "In the end, we have to do what we think is best for the team, but letting Mark go hurts. He was first class all the way, even when we met with him about the trade. This is a tough part of the business." Clayton was the 22nd overall draft pick in 2005 and unfortunately, he never panned out for the Ravens offense he was drafted to jumpstart.

The Ravens traded Clayton to the St. Louis Rams for a disclosed draft pick to clear a space for Houshmandzadeh. It's never easy to let someone go who is highly-regarded, but hopefully Clayton can become that number one receiver in St. Louis to help fellow Sooner, quarterback Sam Bradford, transition to the pro game.

"You never reach a point when it's easy to release or trade a player you respect," said Newsome. "Everyone here has the highest regard for Mark. He'll help the Rams, and it's good for him that they reached out to get him."

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Veteran J.T. O’Sullivan Joins Chargers

Filed under: Chargers, AFC West

The Chargers added an experienced reserve at quarterback on Monday, reaching contract terms with veteran J.T. O'Sullivan on a one-year deal.

O'Sullivan becomes the Chargers' third quarterback, behind starter Philip Rivers and backup Billy Volek.

Rookie Jonathan Crompton was released in the Chargers' final cut over the weekend, leaving Rivers and Volek as the only quarterbacks on San Diego's active roster. Crompton was added to the Chargers' practice squad Sunday.

Chargers general manager A.J. Smith told the San Diego Union-Tribune that the team had been leaning toward going with Rivers and Volek with the ability to tap Crompton from the practice squad in the event the need arose. But O'Sullivan's availability following his release over the weekend by the Cincinnati Bengals changed the Chargers' thinking.

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Raiders Beefing Up Offensive Line by Starting Rookie Center Jared Veldheer

Filed under: Raiders, AFC West

The Raiders have had a long legacy of excellence at center, and the latest to try to live up to it is rookie Jared Veldheer.

Veldheer was named the starter by coach Tom Cable this week.

He's the latest to join what has been a distinguished group of players that includes Jim Otto, Dave Dalby and Don Mosebar. His predecessors, notably Otto, Dalby and Mosebar, were known for their tough, physical and heady play, and they were at the heart of a Raiders offense that prided itself on softening up a defense with the run and then keeping the pressure off long enough to throw the deep strike.

Veldheer, a third-round pick out of Hillsdale College in Michigan, edged out veteran Samson Satele in a job competition that lasted throughout training camp.

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Titans, Redskins Discussing Albert Haynesworth Trade Again

Washington may end its 350-pound headache by shipping Albert Haynesworth back to his old team.

ESPN's Chris Mortensen is reporting that the Redskins and Titans are once again talking about a deal that would send Haynesworth to Tennessee. According to Mortensen, the only hangup is the Redskins wanting a pair of picks for the defensive tackle. Washington's asking price was rumored to be holding up a deal when Haynesworth was shopped around during the NFL draft as well.

At this point, it seems the real question comes down to how much the Redskins want to move on, and how willing they are to end up with egg on their face by admitting they made a horrible mistake by signing Haynesworth to a $100 million deal. There's no way they will get anything close to market value for him, but at the same time, playing an unhappy, unmotivated Haynesworth as a backup defensive linemen isn't exactly getting your money's worth for a player who's made $32 million in his first year and a half in town.

Latest News: Albert Haynesworth | Washington Redskins

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Report: Reggie Bush to Have Heisman Trophy Stripped

Reggie Bush, whose NCAA violations while a running back at the University of Southern California were at the root of heavy sanctions against his alma mater, will reportedly have his Heisman Trophy stripped by month's end.

The Heisman Trophy Trust is close to concluding its investigation that has led to the same conclusions as the inquiry by the NCAA,Yahoo! Sports reported on Monday. Bush, now a running back for the New Orleans Saints, would be the first player stripped of college football's most prestigious trophy in the 75-year history of the award.

Bush met with Heisman officials last month in a New York law office, according to Yahoo! Sports. Instead of passing the trophy along to the 2005 runner-up Vince Young, the former University of Texas quarterback who now plays for the Tennessee Titans, the Heisman Trust will likely leave that season vacant, according to the website.

The NCAA ruled in June that Bush committed several violations while a member of the Trojans, including receiving gifts, cash and other benefits. He was retroactively ruled ineligible for part of the 2004 season and all of the 2005 -- the year he won the Heisman.

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Seahawks to Start Justin Forsett vs. 49ers

Filed under: Seahawks, NFC West

RENTON, Wash. -- With the decision to demote last year's starting running back, Julius Jones, Seattle needed another option.
That option is Justin Forsett. Coach Pete Carroll announced after Monday's practice that Forsett will be the starter at running back Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers.

That doesn't mean, however, that Forsett, a third-year player out of Cal, will carry more of the load than his two backups, Jones and former Jets starter Leon Washington.

There were reports in the blogosphere over the weekend that Jones would be cut, but he's still around. He's just not starting.

"I thought about it through the weekend (and) that's the way we'll go right now, but he might not even carry the ball more than the other guys,'' Carroll said. "He's the guy going out first. This is a competition that is still open. This is not set in stone.

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Team USA Notebook: McMillan Preparing to Have Fernandez in Training Camp

Filed under: Trail Blazers, USA Basketball, Thunder, FIBA World Championship

ISTANBUL -- Portland coach Nate McMillan wouldn't mind at all seeing Rudy Fernandez stay with the Trail Blazers.

McMillan, a Team USA assistant, was asked by FanHouse if his hope is the disgruntled swingman will remain with the team.

"He's a great player,'' McMillan said. "He's a good player. A talented player. Very talented.''

Asked further about the subject and McMillan said, "He is in my notes for training camp. All right.''

Fernandez, unhappy with his role in McMillan's offense, wants to be traded and already has been fined $25,000 by the NBA for that demand having been publicly issued. Through his agent, Andy Miller, Fernandez told The Oregonian two weeks ago he intends to not report to training camp even though he has two years left on his contract.

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Team USA Notebook: McMillan Preparing to Have Fernandez in Training Camp

Filed under: Trail Blazers, USA Basketball, Thunder, FIBA World Championship

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Darnell Dockett Redoubles Work Ethic After Getting Contract Extension

Filed under: Arizona Cardinals, NFC West

Arizona defensive end Darnell Dockett isn't about to rest on his laurels -- or on his new $48 million contract extension, either.
After Monday's Cardinals' workout, Dockett was the last player off the field. He said he needed the work.

"I'm not satisfied,'' Dockett told AZcentral.com Monday. "I want to do something that a lot of guys aren't able to do and that's outplay three contracts, back to back to back. That's my mind-set. I'm raising my standards completely high.

"If I'm able to accomplish this last one, then I think I'll pat myself on the back.''

It seems clear that no one has higher expectations for Dockett than the man himself. He continues to want to prove his worth.

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Blocking Sled Sidelines Ahmad Brooks

Filed under: 49ers, NFC West

It turns out that San Francisco 49ers linebacker Ahmad Brooks doesn't have another teammate to blame for the lacerated kidney that has kept him out for a month.

Brooks, talking with the San Francisco media Monday, said he slammed into a blocking sled during an Aug. 6 practice. The sled hit the ground, bounced up and it struck Brooks on his left side.

By the end of the day, it was clear that something was very wrong. It turned out that a rib, while not broken, had pushed into his kidney.

Talk about instant pain.

"I came in here (the locker room) urinating blood,'' Brooks said Monday. "When I saw that, it was like, `Wow. What's going on?' ''

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The Works: Oscar on LeBron, Depressing Anthony Randolph Trade Rumors

Filed under: Bulls, Knicks, Pacers, Trail Blazers, FIBA, USA Basketball, FIBA World Championship

In The Works today: when "out-athleting" makes sense, but doesn't; Kevin Love, secret weapon or boring garbageman?; and the heartbreaking rumor of a potential Anthony Randolph trade.

But first, Oscar Robertson speaks truth on LeBron James.

The Great Cynic: The ranks of basketball royalty haven't been universally opposed to the Miami Three -- it's just seemed like it. Legendary former Georgetown coach John Thompson spoke highly of LeBron James' decision to join the Heat, and even Isiah Thomas -- a not-so-undercover Knicks operative -- appreciated that LeBron exercised his right to choose.

Most other Hall-of-Famers who have spoken, though, have panned the move. Michael Jordan razzed LeBron for not being willing to do it on his own; Magic Johnson and Larry Bird also slipped on their tough-guy pants to assert they would never have teamed up with a top rival in the quest for glory. But all three of those legends are currently affiliated with teams in some capacity -- Magic as a partial owner, Jordan as a majority owner and Bird as a general manager.

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Virginia Tech Stumbles Early, Stumbles Late in Disappointing Defeat

Filed under: Boise State, Virginia Tech, ACC

LANDOVER, Md. -- This was not Virginia Tech football.

That was the overriding theme from the deer-in-the headlight-looking Hokies here at FedEx Field Monday night following their 33-30 defeat to third-ranked Boise State. They searched for answers and clues, wondering what happened to the Beamerball that they are noted for inside and outside of Blacksburg, Va.

Sure, the 10th-ranked Hokies absorbed a deflating early-season loss for the third straight season. Yet, this one felt different, looked different, smelled different. There were costly penalties. Poor execution on special teams. Inconsistency and mistakes across the board.

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Boise State Victory Could Be Springboard to National Title

Filed under: Boise State, Virginia Tech, ACC, WAC

LANDOVER, Md. -- Boise State is hoping history repeats itself. Critics of the Broncos are praying it doesn't.

Last season, Alabama opened the season by defeating Virginia Tech at a neutral site on its way to the national title. Monday, at FedEx Field, Boise State rallied past Virginia Tech 33-30 at a supposedly neutral site, although the Hokies gobbled up at least 3/4 of the 86,587 tickets.

Will the Broncos also use a season-opening victory against Tech as a catapult to the national title?

We'll have to wait and see. But no matter where you stand in the great debate -- would 12-0 Boise State be BCS title game worthy? -- there is no debating the Broncos deserve to be in the conversation after rallying past the Hokies.

"The nation is always going to doubt us just because we're from the WAC," Boise State junior defensive end Shea McClellin told FanHouse. "Every week, we're going to have to go out to the nation and prove who we are."

Playing just minutes from the Nation's Capital, the Broncos have become the epitome of America's Team. You either feel an undefeated Boise State deserves a shot at the BCS title or you believe the Broncos have no business playing for a national title with their soft conference schedule.

"We know the bulls-eye will continue to grow," Boise State coach Chris Petersen said.

Boise State Over Virginia Tech: Tech Stumbles Early, Late | Boise State No. 1?

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FanHouse Fab 40: Boise State Tops the Chart in Week 1

Filed under: Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Boise State, Brigham Young, Florida, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Houston, Iowa, University of Miami, Michigan, Nebraska, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oregon, Penn State, South Carolina, Stanford, TCU, Texas, Utah, Virginia Tech, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Top 25

FanHouse national college football writer Brett McMurphy shares his weekly Associated Press Top 25 ballot along with his next 15 best teams for FanHouse's Fab 40.

LANDOVER, Md. -- Minutes after Boise State's thrilling 33-30 victory against Virginia Tech Monday night, Kellen Moore would not answer my question.

"If you had a vote in the AP or coaches poll, where would you rank Boise?" I asked him.

"I'm not going to answer that," Moore said.

That's fine, Kellen, I'll tell you where I would rank Boise State: No. 1 with a bullet. The Broncos are ranked No. 1 on my Associated Press ballot this week.

Why Boise State?

Week 1 Coverage: Full Scoreboard | Latest Stories

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Boise State Topples Virginia Tech With Fast Start, Late Touchdown

Filed under: Boise State, Virginia Tech, ACC, WAC

LANDOVER, Md. -- Boise State argued this preseason that it wasn't concerned about proving critics wrong anymore. Instead, the third-ranked Broncos are determined to justify their lofty status and, as head coach Chris Petersen eloquently reasoned, prove everyone right.

Right on - barely yet dramatically.

Boise State squandered an early 17-point advantage but regrouped in the closing minutes to beat 10th-ranked Virginia Tech 33-30 here Monday night at Fedex Field.

Week 1 Coverage: Full Scoreboard | All Stories

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Jeff Niemann’s Troubles Deepen as Rays Crushed by Red Sox

Filed under: Rays, Red Sox

BOSTON -- Including Monday night's disaster at Fenway Park, Jeff Niemann is 0-3 with a 20.03 ERA in three starts since coming off the Tampa Bay disabled list.

"I don't like it," Rays manager Joe Maddon said after Niemann gave up six runs in 1 2/3 innings in a 12-5 loss to the Red Sox. "But this guy was so good before."

Maddon said he has no plans to skip Niemann in his rotation.

Before missing three weeks with a shoulder strain, Niemann was 10-3 with a 3.12 ERA and just 44 walks in 141 1/3 innings.

Since returning, he has walked eight in 10 1/3 innings, giving up 19 hits, four of those homers (two Monday).

Niemann said he is fine physically, and Maddon said based on the radar readings and Niemann's delivery, he has no reason to doubt that.

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Navy Goes for Win, Maryland Denies It by Stuffing Ricky Dobbs at Goal Line

Filed under: Maryland, Navy, ACC

BALTIMORE -- The odds that the player who scored more touchdowns than any other quarterback in a single season in college football history would get stuffed at the goal line in a nail-biter of a game, not once ... or twice ... or three times ... but four times? Probably incalculable.

But the odds were in Maryland's favor on Monday afternoon in M&T Bank Stadium. So when the Terps, underdogs to their in-state brethren in a resumption of a long-dormant series, lined up against Navy and Ricky Dobbs with their backs to the goal line, the record-setting Dobbs lost, time and time again. That included the last time, with 37 seconds left, Navy trailing by three and the ball inside Maryland's 1-yard line.

Navy was sure that going for the touchdown and the victory was the safer move than trying a tying field goal. But Maryland safety Kenny Tate denied Dobbs one final time, and that locked up a 17-14 upset that bodes well for a team that went 2-10 last season and put head coach Ralph Friedgen's job in jeopardy.

More College Football: Full Scoreboard | Latest Stories

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Mariners Farmhand Leury Bonilla Plays All Nine Positions in Game

Filed under: Mariners, Minor Leagues

You've heard of utility players and even the newer variation known as super-utility players, but we'll have to find a new label to apply to Mariners minor leaguer Leury Bonilla after what he did Monday.

Bonilla, 25, had a change of scenery in every inning, playing all nine positions for the Double-A West Tenn Diamond Jaxx in their regular season finale. And it wasn't as if he just stood around at each position and called it an accomplishment; Bonilla managed to hit a home run and contribute a sacrifice fly in his four trips to the plate and didn't allow a run in the inning he pitched.

His box score line is pretty impressive, reading CF-LF-RF-2B-SS-3B-1B-C-P as he worked his way around the diamond.

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For Russian Coach, Game Against US Comes Full Circle

Filed under: USA Basketball, FIBA World Championship

ISTANBUL -- On Sept. 9, 1972, David Blatt was a 13-year-old kid living in Framingham, Mass., who bled red, white and blue.

On that day, the U.S. Olympic basketball team suffered a shocking and controversial 51-50 loss to the Soviet Union in the final of the 1972 Olympics in Munich, to fail to win the gold medal for the first time. It's something Blatt never will forget.

"I was one of those kids crying when the Americans lost the game in the Olympics, when (Alexander) Belov made the shot at the end,'' Blatt said of the ending in Munich in which the Soviets scored on a third inbound attempt with three seconds left on a length-of-the-court pass to Belov. The American players believe to this day they were cheated and have refused to accept their silver medals.

Flash forward exactly 38 years, and on Sept. 9, 2010 -- which is Thursday -- and the American-born Blatt, who now lives in Israel, will coach the Russians against Team USA in a World Championship quarterfinal at the Sinan Erdem Dome.

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Charley Hoffman Injects More Drama to FedExCup, Ryder Cup

Filed under: PGA, FedEx Cup

Say this for the PGA Tour's FedExCup: it's very interesting, even if the reasons are all unexpected.

Although only two tournaments now remain in the postseason playoff series after Charley Hoffman's butt-kicking victory Monday evening in the Deutsche Bank Championship at TPC Boston, the storylines keep coming like campaign promises.

Wow! Hoffman, 33-year-old journeyman with one previous career victory, a player who once missed 16 consecutive cuts on the developmental Nationwide Tour, blew away the field with a final-round 9-under 62. He finished 22 shots on the happy side of par, five strokes in front of runners-up Geoff Ogilvy (66), Luke Donald (69) Jason Day (71). He zoomed from 59th to second on the FedEx points list, positioning himself nicely for a run at the $10 million bonus that goes to the winner.

This week's BMW Championship in Chicago, with the field cut to 70 players, will begin with Matt Kuchar on top of the FedEx points list, followed by Hoffman, Steve Stricker, Day and Donald.

Never had Hoffman finished in the top 10 of a major championship, a World Golf Championship or a FedExCup event. But on Monday he ran off four straight birdies early to erase a four-shot deficit, took command by holing a bunker shot on the 13th and cruised to an easy win.

"I mean, the playoffs that's what you try to do," Hoffman said. " I wasn't even close to anything for the most part starting the week or starting the playoffs -- mid 70s and just trying to advance into next week. Last week, if I missed the cut last week who knows if I'm even here. Played decent last week and just got it going this week."

And then there's Tiger. And Phil. And all sorts of other interesting angles.

More: Deutsche Bank Championship Leaderboard

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Padres Still Believe Despite 10-Game Skid

Filed under: Diamondbacks, Dodgers, Giants, Padres, NL West

SAN DIEGO -- How fitting that as America celebrates a patriotic holiday, the San Diego Padres will try to end a 10-game losing streak.

The Padres are champions of democracy.

Regarding a skid that is the franchise's longest since 1994, all precincts within San Diego's ballclub have had their say: Be it a fading offense, a bullpen no longer invincible, a defense weakened by injury and perhaps fatigue, or baserunners either dulled or overly caffeinated. The starting pitching has tapered off too, with the exception of Mat Latos, the 22-year-old ace who was set to face the Los Angeles Dodgers on Labor Day night in San Diego until he was felled by stomach flu.

The Padres still lead the National League West, but their free fall has made the neighborhood a more egalitarian place.

Only 12 days ago the Padres were a threat to salt away a playoff berth well before season's end. Their 76-49 record was not only the best record in the National League but, among all Padres clubs, the highest above .500 save the franchise-best, 98-victory season of 1998.

The San Francisco Giants were 6 1/2 games behind the Padres, and eight games back in the loss column.

The Colorado Rockies were 10 1/2 games out of first place.

When Labor Day arrived, however, the margins were down to one game and 4 1/2 games.

Beyond the hard numbers, the Padres looked like they were playing underwater as the streak stretched onward.

"We just need to take a step back and regroup," said Padres utilityman Jerry Hairston Jr. on Sunday, after the Rockies completed a three-game sweep in San Diego.

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‘Violent’ Flu Keeps Mat Latos From Start

Filed under: Padres, MLB Injuries

As if the Padres' recent slide hasn't upset enough stomachs around San Diego, the figurative went literal Monday.

Mat Latos, the Padres' best pitcher, was scratched from his Labor Day start against the Dodgers because of what he called a "violent" case of the stomach flu. That about sums it up for San Diego, which now will rely on spot starter Tim Stauffer to lead the way Monday night in an attempt to stop the losing skid at 10 games.

Despite his illness, Latos tried to talk the coaching staff into letting him take the ball Monday, but he was rebuffed. He is, however, scheduled to start Tuesday -- assuming all goes well overnight.

If there's any good news for the Padres, it's that Stauffer had a measure of success in his last emergency start, working five scoreless innings May 9 against the Astros.

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Jason Allen Wins Starting CB Job With Miami Dolphins

Filed under: Dolphins, AFC East

DAVIE, Fla. -- It was quite a busy day for the Miami Dolphins as they officially began preparation for Sunday's season opener at the Buffalo Bills, and for fifth-year cornerback Jason Allen it was a very rewarding one.

The 27-year-old Allen, who has gracefully dealt with being labeled a bust since being taken 16th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft, was named the starter opposite Vontae Davis this afternoon. He beat out second-year cornerback Sean Smith, who became the first rookie in Dolphins history to start all 16 regular-season games last year.

After Monday's practice, Allen was coy about whether or not he knew about the move because Dolphins Head Coach Tony Sparano hadn't announced it yet to the media. His press conference takes place after the open locker room, so all Allen would confirm was that he practiced with the first team today but also worked some with the scout team. He also said he always prepares as if he is going to start, and in my story on Dolphins.com we found out why he will Sunday at Buffalo.

"This is a good problem, it's not a bad problem," Sparano said. "I mean this is a guy who from my time here all I've heard about is, 'When's Jason Allen going to turn the corner?' And maybe the guy has turned the corner. I mean we should be happy about this for Christ's sake. I'd rather have three or four corners than two corners, so to me some of these things are really good problems. It has more to do with what some of the other people have done than it is what some of the other people haven't done."

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FanHouse TV: Be Thankful for Brett Favre’s Honesty

Filed under: Vikings, NFL Video

Brett Favre has been attacked from every side for his on-again, off-again flirtation with playing football over the past few seasons.

FanHouse TV's Terence Moore has a different slant. He argues that you can't fault Favre for doing what other athletes don't: telling the truth.

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Two Children Hospitalized in Separate Incidents at Giants-D’backs Game

Filed under: Diamondbacks, Giants

PHOENIX (AP) -- Two children have been taken to the hospital after being struck by a bat and a ball at Monday's game between the Arizona Diamondbacks and San Francisco Giants.

A 13-year-old boy seated near Arizona's dugout just beyond the start of the protective netting was hit on the right side of the head in the fourth inning after San Francisco's Buster Posey lost his bat swinging at a pitch.

In the next at-bat, the Giants' Pablo Sandoval sent a foul ball into the upper deck, where it struck a 2-year-old girl on the forehead.

Medical personnel rushed to the boy and started applying pressure and a cold compress to the side of his head for several minutes. He was later fitted with a neck brace and strapped to a stretcher.

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Tony Richardson Returns to Jets

Filed under: Jets, NFL Free Agency, NFL Rumors

Around the league this weekend, teams were faced with some decisions regarding established veterans in camp and how to keep them on the roster -- specifically the ones that were on the bubble, like New York Jets fullback Tony Richardson and wide receiver Laveranues Coles.

Anybody who watched last Wednesday night's episode of "Hard Knocks" on HBO saw Jets coach Rex Ryan sit down with Coles in his office and tell him he was being released. Ryan also told him he'd like to bring him back after Week 1, when the NFL's veteran contracts are no longer guaranteed and Coles could be paid weekly.

Then a few days later Richardson, a player Ryan vehemently supported on camera because of the leadership he brings to the team, was let go. Monday, though, Ryan confirmed to the New York media that Richardson has been re-signed and will play next Monday night against the Baltimore Ravens at New Meadowlands Stadium. Richardson's contract will have to be guaranteed for the entire season, but the Jets don't seem to have a problem with that.

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Denver Broncos Claim RB Andre Brown and OL Chris Clark

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West

Trying to compensate for a fresh round of injuries, the Broncos have tweaked their roster.

Over the weekend, the Broncos claimed running back Andre Brown off waivers from the New York Giants and offensive lineman Chris Clark off waivers from Minnesota.

To clear roster room, the Broncos released linebacker Baraka Atkins and running back Bruce Hall.

Brown shores up the Broncos' running back corps, which took its latest hit when LenDale White suffered a ruptured Achilles' tendon in the preseason finale at Minnesota last Thursday. White was placed on season-ending injured reserve two days later.

Clark strengthens the depth in the offensive line strained most recently by the questionable status of right tackle Ryan Harris, who suffered a sprained ankle in the Minnesota game.

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Charley Hoffman Wins Deutsche Bank Championship; Tiger Finishes T11

Filed under: PGA, FedEx Cup

NORTON, Mass. (AP) -- Charley Hoffman was rolling in so many putts he lost track of how many birdies he made Monday. His final stroke on a Labor Day masterpiece was his 11th birdie, more than enough to win the Deutsche Bank Championship.

The question is whether it was enough to make him a last-minute pick for the Ryder Cup.

Hoffman ran off four straight birdies early to erase a four-shot deficit, seized control by holing a bunker shot on the 13th and closed with a 9-under 62 on the TPC Boston for a five-shot victory over Geoff Ogilvy, Jason Day and Luke Donald.

Tiger Woods had three rounds in the 60s for the first time this year. He closed with a 69 to tie for 11th, and kept his No. 1 ranking in the world when Phil Mickelson imploded again.

Mickelson needed only to finish fourth to become No. 1 for the first time in his career. Instead, he took two double bogeys on the back nine and shot 76 to tie for 25th. A month ago, Mickelson had an equally good chance at Firestone and shot 78.

Even if he doesn't make the Ryder Cup, the FedEx Cup is looking pretty good for Hoffman.

He was No. 59 in the standings and arrived at the TPC Boston wanting to make sure he advanced to the third round of the playoffs next week outside Chicago. He wound up a winner, moving to No. 2 in the standings. That assures him a shot at the $10 million bonus, and puts him in all four majors next year after not playing any of them this year.

More: Deutsche Bank Championship Leaderboard

As for the Ryder Cup? U.S. captain Corey Pavin will make his four selections Tuesday morning in New York. The frontrunners are Woods, Zach Johnson and Stewart Cink, with no one standing out as the fourth choice.

Pavin had said earlier in the week that no one should assume a good week at the Deutsche Bank would put him on the team.

Hoffman, oozing California cool with his blond locks flowing from under his cap and kelly green pants to match his shoes, made a strong impression with his game and his words.

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Ruben Narcisse, Wyoming Football Player, Killed in Single-Car Accident

Filed under: Wyoming

Ruben Narcisse was killed and three other University of Wyoming football players were injured in a single-car crash Monday, shortly before 5:30 a.m. According to a release from the school, the four were in a Toyota Tundra traveling north when the driver apparently fell asleep. The Colorado State Patrol has issued a statement saying there is no evidence drugs or alcohol were a factor in the accident.

"The loss of any student saddens us immeasurably," UW president Tom Buchanan said. "My condolences go out to Ruben's family and friends. The entire university community grieves his loss."

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ruben's family," athletic director Tom Burman said. "Our thoughts are also with the students who were involved in the accident and their families as well. Sadly, this athletics department has experienced this kind of loss before, and we know how difficult it is for all involved."

"We're reaching out to our entire team and coaching staff," coach Dave Christensen said. "It's a terrible tragedy, and a terrible loss. Our focus now is helping our team and staff deal with this tragedy and making sure the families of the young men involved know that we are here to support them in any way we can."

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Titans’ Jeff Fisher Wary of Raiders

Filed under: Raiders, Titans, AFC South, AFC West

The Tennessee Titans have worked for the past several months on preparing for the 2010 season, but all the while, there was concentration on the Oakland Raiders.

Now, their focus turns completely in that direction.

Jeff Fisher, the Titans' coach, said Monday as Tennessee began full-scale preparations for the opener that the Raiders' recent history and recent records matter not a bit, because the reality is that the Raiders are an improved team.

Not only that, Fisher said, but they're a tough team for which to prepare.

"The coaches have been watching very closely throughout the offseason and throughout the preseason -- they're a very talented team," Fisher said Monday. "They're very unpredictable. It's hard to predict what we're going to get, so we have to be prepared to adjust."

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Is Albert Haynesworth Ready to Start?

Filed under: Redskins, NFC North

Quarterback Donovan McNabb, who sprained his left knee in the Aug. 21 preseason loss to Baltimore, and fullback Mike Sellers, who sprained his left ankle against the Ravens, both returned to practice for the Washington Redskins on Monday and are expected to start in Sunday's opener against Dallas. Only free safety Kareem Moore, sidelined until at least Week 3 after having his right knee scoped on Aug. 23, and rookie inside linebacker Perry Riley, out since injuring his right foot on Aug. 27 against the New York Jets, were the only Redskins unable to practice.

Meanwhile, defensive lineman Albert Haynesworth, who played 49 of 55 snaps in the Sept. 2 preseason finale at Arizona, in an effort to reclaim the starting job he lost by skipping the offseason program and mandatory minicamp over his unhappiness with his perceived role in new coordinator Jim Haslett's 3-4 defensive scheme, took some work with the first team on Monday, but don't expect him to put nose tackle Ma'ake Kemoeatu or right end Kedric Golston on the bench against the Cowboys.

"Any time a person plays the defensive end position, the nose position, it takes some time," said Shanahan, admantly refusing to reveal his starters. "It doesn't happen overnight. I thought he did a good job considering how many plays he did [play] at a couple of different positions. It was work that was well-needed and he played hard. He worked hard and made a few mistakes, but he's getting better. He's in much better shape than he was before. We'll play the best players who are ready to play."

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Jaguars’ RB Maurice Jones-Drew: Knee is ‘a Non-Issue’

Filed under: Jaguars, AFC South

Once again, Maurice Jones-Drew said he's absolutely not injured.

Jones-Drew, the Jacksonville Jaguars' leading rusher and cornerstone of the offense, spoke to the media for the first time in a week and a half on Monday, with the subject yet again the health of his knee.

It had been reported two and a half weeks ago on the internet that Jones-Drew underwent arthroscopic knee surgery. Jones-Drew missed the last two preseason games, but said Monday that he did not undergo surgery.

Jaguars Head Coach Jack Del Rio previously also refuted the report.

Jones-Drew also called his knee "a non-issue."

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Alex Rodriguez Sets Record With Latest 100-RBI Season

Filed under: Yankees, MLB Milestones

A day after coming off the disabled list, Alex Rodriguez made some more history Monday.

With a solo homer in the fourth inning off Brian Matusz and a sacrifice fly in the sixth, Rodriguez reached 100 RBI this season. It's the 13th consecutive year he's reached the century mark and the 14th time overall -- a major league record.

Rodriguez had been tied with Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig and Jimmie Foxx, three Hall of Famers who posted 13 seasons of at least 100 RBI during their careers.

Rodriguez' homer was his 22nd of the season, but he'll have to go on quite a run to reach 30 homers for the 13th consecutive year and 14th overall.

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Padres Must Block Out Doubt, Move Past Losing Skid

Filed under: Padres, Executive Take

Oh no! The Padres' losing streak is up to 10 games and counting. What a brutal turn of events for the young team that still sits atop the NL West.

On August 25 they had just won three straight and improved their record to 76-49. That's 27 games over .500, for those that are mathematically challenged. Since then, Murphy's Law (not Dale Murphy) has applied: what could go wrong has gone wrong.

The pitching that was so good has failed them and the timely hitting that supported the pitching has disappeared. To make matters even worse, their defense is starting to get sloppy as well. They had a four-error game during the streak and have committed errors in their last four games.

They are playing with tension instead of intensity. They look like they are afraid to make mistakes. That tends to lead to mistakes.

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Southern Miss Coaches Question Wide Receiver’s Effort

Filed under: Southern Miss, Conference USA

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) -- While Southern Miss receiver DeAndre Brown may have undeniable talent, coach Larry Fedora isn't thrilled with his attitude.

In Thursday's 41-13 loss to South Carolina, the 6-foot-6, 240-pound Brown caught four balls for 65 yards and a touchdown-but all of his catches came in the fourth quarter after the game was basically decided.

"If you look at his game from the other night there was nothing special on his part," Fedora said. "It wasn't even an average performance to be honest with you."

Fedora and offensive coordinator Blake Anderson questioned Brown's effort during Monday's press conference, particularly when plays weren't designed to go his way.

"It's not any different for him than it is for anyone else." Fedora said. "We expect him to play hard whether he's getting the ball or not and give everything he's got on every snap. That's not just DeAndre Brown, that's everybody."

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Joe Theismann Tapped for Thursday Night NFL Broadcasts

Filed under: NFL Media Watch, Sports Business and Media

Joe Theismann will be back in the broadcast booth as part of NFL Network's Thursday night telecasts, the league announced on Monday.

Theismann, who led the Washington Redskins to a Super Bowl victory in 1983, has worked sporadically since he was replaced as an analyst for "Monday Night Football" after the 2006 season. Theissman will call the games alongside Bob Papa and Matt Millen when the NFL Network begins its eight-game run at midseason.

"It's great to be back in the booth and joining Matt and Bob on NFL Network's primetime games," Theismann told USA Today. "We have a great schedule of games and I can't wait for them to begin."

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Toronto Fan Injured by Metal Letter Falling From Jackie Robinson Sign

Filed under: Blue Jays, Rangers

TORONTO (AP) -- Baseball fans have long been warned to look out for foul balls and flying bats.

Now add falling letters to the list.

A fan at the Toronto Blue Jays' game was OK on Monday after being struck in the right shoulder by a tumbling, metal "B" from a sign honoring Jackie Robinson.

The middle-aged man had a scrape after a foul ball by home run leader Jose Bautista of the Blue Jays dislodged one of the letters in a tribute honoring Robinson's retired No. 42.

The letter fell about 30 feet from the facing over the third deck behind home plate in the seventh inning of the Texas-Toronto game.

"I was very surprised, because I didn't expect a 'B' to fall on me," said the injured fan, who gave only his first name as Ian and said he was a season-ticket holder from Toronto. He was watching the game with his son.

Although he was sore, the fan who was struck said the injury wouldn't prove too serious; he throws left-handed.

The white letter, some two feet high, bounced down the aisle and was picked up in the front row by fan Bruno DeRose, who proudly held it over his head. Other fans booed when stadium security took the letter away.

"They should have at least given me a couple of tickets or a ball,'' DeRose said. ''I couldn't believe it happened."

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Dennis Dixon Named Steelers Starter

Filed under: Steelers, AFC North, NFL Injuries, NFL Quarterbacks

Dennis Dixon ran the first-team offense during the Steelers' practice Monday, and head coach Mike Tomlin confirmed afterward what had already been suspected: It will be Dixon under center Sunday when Pittsburgh opens the season at home against Atlanta.

The Steelers will play their first four games without quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who was suspended by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Veteran Byron Leftwich could have started those games, but he injured his knee in the preseason finale and will be out for some time.

So coach Mike Tomlin had to look at a third quarterback to get the start.

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Shaun O’Hara Returns to Giants’ Practice

Filed under: Giants, NFC East

Just two months after becoming the Giants' coach in 2004, Tom Coughlin signed Shaun O'Hara from Cleveland. Only fellow offensive linemen David Diehl and Rich Seubert and defensive end Osi Umenyiora have been in New York as long as O'Hara.

After six-plus years with the dour Coughlin, O'Hara certainly has a good feel for his coach. And after a decade in the NFL, O'Hara has a good feel for his body, which felt good enough today for him to return to practice after most much of August with a sprained left ankle. He had a cast on it for a week before it was removed last Wednesday.

"Obviously being back out on the field and being out with the boys is always a good feeling," O'Hara said. "I thought it went well today and it wasn't a rigorous practice by any means. It was just good to get out there to run around and sweat a little bit. It's been frustrating. It was something that at one point it'd feel like it was getting better and then it would take a different turn without exactly knowing why. It just was frustrating not being able to practice, and going into my 11th year now, I haven't really had anything like this. It was tough every day not knowing how it was going to respond."

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Falcons Counting Heavily on Secondary

Filed under: Atlanta Falcons, NFC South

The Atlanta Falcons fired their secondary coach, the Hall of Famer Emmitt Thomas. They signed a cornerback, Dunta Robinson, to a $57 million contract, even though the corner has not appeared in the Pro Bowl. Saturday, they cut a third-round draft pick, Chevis Jackson, who was a draft pick of the GM and you know how much the GMs hate to eat their own.

The Falcons are serious about getting their pass defense fixed. They have to be.

If they are going to play in the same division as the Saints, the Falcons have to win one of those games with New Orleans and they have to stop the pass.

At some point, the defensive line has to lend a hand and get a rush, but that does not always happen. The DBs have to make plays.

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San Diego Chargers Sign Veteran Offensive Lineman Adam Terry

Filed under: Chargers, AFC West

Trying to upgrade their depth and level of experience at tackle, the San Diego Chargers have signed veteran offensive lineman Adam Terry.

They made room for Terry, who was signed to a one-year contract, by waiving rookie tackle Ryan Otterson.

Left tackle has been a problem spot for the Chargers. Brandyn Dombrowski is holding down the job in the absence of Pro Bowler Marcus McNeill, a restricted free agent who has refused to sign his tender in a bid for a longer-term deal. McNeill's representatives and Chargers management have been in a prolonged stalemate that threatens to extend well into the season.

The Chargers had signed veteran Tra Thomas to back up Dombrowski, but Thomas two weeks ago decided to retire after a bumpy recovery from arthroscopic knee surgery prevented him from playing at the level he was accustomed to.

Terry is starting his sixth NFL season. He was released over the weekend by Indianapolis, the team he signed with earlier this year after five seasons in Baltimore. He broke into the NFL as a second round pick of the Ravens and started 18 of 48 career games.

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Derek Lowe Plans to Start Wednesday

Filed under: Braves, MLB Injuries

The Braves can breathe a little sigh of relief after Derek Lowe's bullpen session Monday went smoothly, setting him up to start Wednesday.

Lowe was supposed to start Friday but was scratched due to inflammation in his elbow. It was the first time he missed a start in his major league career. Lowe has been dealing with bone chips in the elbow for at least a month and had a cortisone shot to help dull the pain. He felt numbness in his hand during his last start Aug. 29, limiting him to three innings against the Marlins.

He hadn't even been throwing bullpen sessions in between starts the last couple of weeks, but now that he's able to do that again, he feels confident about being able to take the ball against the Pirates in two days.

"If we were where I was two, three weeks ago, then we'd probably have an issue," he said. "But it's getting better."

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Donovan McNabb Returns to Practice; Albert Haynesworth Still With Backups

Filed under: Redskins, NFL Injuries, NFL Quarterbacks

ASHBURN, Va. (AP) -- Donovan McNabb is once again practicing with the Washington Redskins after being sidelined two weeks with a sprained left ankle.

McNabb was wearing a helmet instead of a baseball cap and took several snaps Monday during the 20 minutes of practice that reporters were allowed to watch.

McNabb sprained his ankle in a preseason game against Baltimore on Aug. 21.

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Spotter’s Stand: Carl Edwards Races Into Sprint Cup Contention

Filed under: Carl Edwards, Denny Hamlin, Reed Sorenson, Roush Fenway Racing, Chase for the Sprint Cup, Sprint Cup, NASCAR

Carl Edwards is flying under the championship radar no more.

After a second-place finish in Sunday night's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Atlanta Motor Speedway, Edwards let everyone he's going to contend in the Chase for the Sprint Cup.

"I know we don't look like we did in 2008," Edwards said, alluding to the most recent season he had a shot at winning the series title. "But we're better set to go race for that championship now than we've ever been."

Edwards, long a cerebral force in the garage area with an unvarnished penchant to march to his own beat, isn't pulling anybody's leg with that declaration.

In the last eight races, Edwards and his Roush-Fenway Racing No. 99 Ford team have turned the corner and then some in favor of being competitive again.

That span -- beginning at Daytona in July -- has seen Edwards finish in the top five five times. More significantly, he's finished outside the top 10 just once, and that was at Bristol, where he crossed the finish line in 12th.

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Spotter’s Stand: Carl Edwards Races Into Sprint Cup Contention

Filed under: Carl Edwards, Denny Hamlin, Reed Sorenson, Roush Fenway Racing, Chase for the Sprint Cup, Sprint Cup, NASCAR

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Major League Notebook: September 6

Filed under: MLB Notebook

Here is what's happening around baseball on Monday Sept. 6, 2010:

o. Nyjer Morgan enjoyed his weekend back in Pittsburgh, and more importantly, stayed out of trouble in the process. The Nationals outfielder has had a rough couple of weeks, but as the Nats returned home Monday -- where Morgan got a mixed response from the D.C. crowd -- he said he's still the same person he always has been.

"It's just frustrating when people perceive you the wrong way when you play the game hard," Morgan said. "I guess it's basically what we signed up for. I think it's like a good buzz. All buzz is good buzz, in my eyes. I'm still the same person. It doesn't change me. This year is just one of those years, you know? Things just happen for a reason. It's just going to make me a better player and a better person, too."

o. Andy Pettitte had an uneventful bullpen session Monday and is scheduled to make a rehab start Wednesday for Double-A Trenton.

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Big Ten Harvest: Impressive Debuts for Several Quarterbacks

Filed under: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Wisconsin, Big 10

Ohio State junior quarterback Terrelle Pryor entered the month as either the Heisman favorite or No. 2 candidate on just about every list out there. Pryor, the Buckeyes' leading rusher (and, of course, passer) a year ago did just fine in the Buckeyes' 45-7 defeat of Marshall. He threw the longest touchdown pass (65 yards, to Dane Sanzenbacher) of the week in the Big Ten and completed 17 of 25 passes for 247 yards and three touchdowns.

Still, at least on the season's opening weekend, a few Big Ten quarterbacks who were making their first starts were more impressive. Michigan's Denard Robinson was named Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week after rushing for a school-record (for a QB) 197 yards and completing 19 of 22 passes for 186 yards. Northwestern's Dan Persa had an even higher completion percentage, hitting on 19 of 21 (90.5%) and throwing three touchdown passes as the Wildcats outlasted Vanderbilt in the SAT Bowl in Nashville. Persa, like Robinson, led his team in rushing with 82 yards.

And then there was Purdue's Robert Marve. While his numbers at Notre Dame were not as impressive (32 of 41 for 220 yards, with two interceptions), Marve warmed up in the second half. The Miami transfer, who sat out last season, showed off his cannon arm, twice launching catchable 55-plus yard missiles (if Golden Tate were his receiver, at least one of them would've been caught). He also scored the Boilermakers' only touchdown, keeping the ball on a 4th-and-1 read option and going 23 yards untouched into the end zone.

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David Martin Now Dolphins’ Loss, Buffalo’s Gain at Tight End

Filed under: Bills, Dolphins, AFC East

In the span of about 12 hours, a strategic move by the Miami Dolphins likely meant to save some money on the payroll helped answer a serious need for the Buffalo Bills, and the two teams just happen to be facing each other on Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium in the 2010 season opener.

Miami terminated the contract of veteran tight end David Martin, perhaps with the intent to try to bring him back after the Buffalo game when veteran contracts become non-guaranteed. Martin was an integral part of the 2008 Dolphins team that went 11-5 and won the AFC East, catching 31 passes or 450 yards and three touchdowns.

A knee injury landed him on injured reserve last year and he was waived/injured by Miami in December, only to be re-signed one week into training camp this year. His reunion with Anthony Fasano was thought to invigorate the tight end position, but having been out of football for 10 months meant he needed time to get back into football shape and the Dolphins were feeling more confident in last year's fifth-round pick, John Nalbone.

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Atlanta Falcons 2010 Season Preview: A Return to the Postseason?

Filed under: Atlanta Falcons, FanHouse Previews, NFL Predictions, NFL Analysis

FanHouse's 2010 NFL Season Preview features our division-by-division predictions based on our tried and true "Heat Index" formula. Each team is graded on a scale of 1-10 (10 being highest) in five key categories: Offense, Defense, Special Teams, Coaching and Intangibles. The higher the score, the better we think the team will be this season.

Even with the injuries at the end of 2009 to star running back Michael Turner and quarterback Matt Ryan, the Atlanta Falcons managed to make franchise history. When the team won three straight games to finish the season, it secured a 9-7 record and completed Atlanta's first-ever back-to-back winning seasons.

Just winning is not enough anymore. The Falcons have Turner and Ryan healthy, two great pass-catchers in Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez, and general manager Thomas Dimitroff has bolstered the defense with acquisitions like Dunta Robinson and solid draft picks. A deep playoff run is the only thing that will satisfy the Falcons this season.

More NFC South Previews: Bucs | Panthers | Saints
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New Orleans Saints 2010 Season Preview: No Super Bowl Letdown

Filed under: Saints, FanHouse Previews, NFL Analysis

FanHouse's 2010 NFL Season Preview features our division-by-division predictions based on our tried and true "Heat Index" formula. Each team is graded on a scale of 1-10 (10 being highest) in five key categories: Offense, Defense, Special Teams, Coaching and Intangibles. The higher the score, the better we think the team will be this season. Coming Sept. 7: AFC West

The Saints finally won the first Super Bowl title in franchise history, washing away years of frustration and pain. However, many feel the Saints will have trouble defending their title in 2010. Have the 'Aints from the 70s, a moniker of shame and self loathing, turned into the 'Aints of 2010 -- as in "'Ain't gonna happen again"?

This team looks remarkably similar to last year's champions. Almost every starter is back in place, and save Scott Fujita, the names on the backs of jerseys that were there in 2009 are once again there in 2010. This team is primed to make another run and has the talent to succeed.

More NFC South Previews: Bucs | Falcons | Panthers
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Carolina Panthers 2010 Season Preview: New Faces Aplenty

Filed under: Panthers, FanHouse Previews, NFL Predictions, NFL Analysis

FanHouse's 2010 NFL Season Preview features our division-by-division predictions based on our tried and true "Heat Index" formula. Each team is graded on a scale of 1-10 (10 being highest) in five key categories: Offense, Defense, Special Teams, Coaching and Intangibles. The higher the score, the better we think the team will be this season. Coming Sept. 7: AFC West

Who is that guy? For Carolina Panthers faithful, that isn't such a funny question. Even if the Panthers are your favorite team, you still may need to grab a roster sheet on Sundays -- there are a lot of new names in Carolina this season.

Gone are familiar faces like Julius Peppers, Jake Delhomme and Muhsin Muhammad, to name just a few. In their places are younger, healthier and most importantly, cheaper players. Nine starters are being replaced in Carolina, and the 8-8 record the Panthers achieved last season isn't as much mile marker or building block, but a top-end goal for 2010.

More NFC South Previews: Bucs | Falcons | Saints
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2010 Season Preview: Tall Mountain to Climb

Filed under: Buccaneers, NFC South, FanHouse Previews, NFL Predictions, NFL Analysis

FanHouse's 2010 NFL Season Preview features division-by-division predictions based on our tried and true "Heat Index" formula. Each team is graded on a scale of 1-10 (10 being highest) in five key categories: Offense, Defense, Special Teams, Coaching and Intangibles. The higher the score, the better we think the team will be this season. Coming Sept. 8: NFC West. Coming Sept. 7: AFC West

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be -- and should be -- a much better team than they were in 2009 when they went 3-13, the club's worst record in nearly two decades. In the second year since the purge of head coach Jon Gruden and general manager Bruce Allen, the youth movement under the direction of coach Raheem Morris and GM Mark Dominik appears to have yielded a second solid draft class.

A better roster, however, won't necessarily translate to a much better record for the Bucs. That's how low the starting point was for Morris and Dominik -- and how far this club has to go to be contenders in a division with two teams worthy of a Super Bowl march.

More NFC South Previews: Falcons | Panthers | Saints
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MLB Power Rankings: National Uprising

Filed under: AL Central, AL East, AL West, NL Central, NL East, NL West, MLB Power Rankings

The beasts in the American League East have been split up as the New York Yankees have found a way to put a little bit of separation between them and the Tampa Bay Rays, not only in the division but in these rankings.

But the real story is the rise of the National League teams in the rankings. Six NL teams occupy the top 10 and surprisingly, San Diego isn't one of them -- the Padres have dropped 10 consecutive games but still hold a one-game lead over San Francisco in the division.

The Cincinnati Reds are distancing themselves from the St. Louis Cardinals, and Atlanta and Philadelphia are both still playing their version of cat-and-mouse, with the Phillies unable to take control of the division. The Phillies are still ahead of Atlanta in the power rankings as they've whittled the Braves' lead to one game.

Watch San Francisco and Colorado in the West. It's not hard to gain ground on a division leader when they go winless in 10 games, but the Giants and the Rockies are within striking distance of a playoff berth and don't look to be going away soon.

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Ravens’ Super Bowl Flight Turbocharged

Filed under: Ravens, AFC North

There aren't many acquisitions made by an NFL team that automatically translate into a Super Bowl victory before the regular season begins. It would be viewed as a premature statement. But after the earth shaking signing of wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh by the Baltimore Ravens, according to a league source, it is not only a mature statement to make about them preparing to march through the regular season, into the playoffs and allow fullback Le'Ron McClain to help "tear that field up" in Dallas, Texas to bring the Vince Lombardi Trophy back to Baltimore, it can almost be unfair.

Houshmandzadeh left division rival Cincinnati a season ago and signed with the Seattle Seahawks for a deal worth $40 million, spanning five years, with $15 million guaranteed. The Seahawks released the highly talented receiver on Saturday after the team finished with a 5-11 record. Houshmandzadeh, 32, capped his first and only season with the Seahawks with 79 receptions for 911 yards with three touchdowns.

Rumors of Houshmandzadeh skyrocketed about him signing with teams. The Minnesota Vikings, Oakland Raiders and the Washington Redskins were among the teams rumored to be interested in signing him. Even former teammate Chad Ochocinco tweeted that he would campaign for Houshmandzadeh to return to the Bengals.

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Panthers Might Consider More Moves

Filed under: Panthers, NFC South

One of the reasons the Panthers had hope for this season was an offensive line that could plow holes for DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart and protect the young quarterback Matt Moore.

I'm beginning to wonder about this strength.

Duke Robinson was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury. Tackle Jeff Otah, one of the mainstays, was expected back for the first game after sudden knee surgery. He's not back.

The team has eight offensive lineman, but the reserves are undrafted (2009) rookie Garry Williams and Tim Duckworth, who was signed Monday after being cut by the Saints.

Some other moves to ponder:

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FanHouse TV: What We Learned on Labor Day Weekend

Filed under: MLB Video, Executive Take

During his Hall of Fame managerial career, Tony La Russa has run a tight ship with the team coming before the individual players. The results are obvious: over 2,600 wins, five pennants and two World Series titles spanning an incredible 32 years as a big league skipper. All the more reason FanHouse TV's Steve Phillips is telling disgruntled Cardinals outfielder Colby Rasmus to "shut up" in this week's edition of "What We Learned" over the past weekend. Click to watch:

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Brett Favre vs. Drew Brees: QBs in Crosshairs Thursday Night

Filed under: Saints, Vikings, NFC North, NFC South

It is Drew Brees vs. Brett Favre, and there are a couple of things to pay attention to Thursday night when the Saints and Vikings open the 2010 regular season.

Is there some bad blood? Some of the Vikings took offense to the way Favre was banged around when the Saints beat Minnesota in the NFC championship game last January. Favre injured an ankle, which kept everyone guessing whether he would return for this season.

Favre is not going to be drawn into the discussion.

"It's football," Favre said. "Sean Payton and I are good friends. I talked to him several days after the game and said, great win for you guys. A win's a win. In a roundabout sort of way, every defense wants to get the opposing quarterback out and that's just the way it is. Had that been us and say we played Drew [Brees] here and we were able to hit him like that and we sure would have been saying, great.

"I wish we had won the football game. I'm not so concerned about how we lost it. It's physical. It's football. I'm not going to get caught up in that."

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Rams Claim Players From Cowboys, Panthers for Practice Squad

Filed under: Rams, NFC West

The Rams did their due diligence as the waiver wires exploded Saturday and Sunday with clubs cutting down to the 53-player limit.

St. Louis took advantage of those moves to add two released players to the Rams' practice squad, which now has seven of a possible eight members identified.

Mortty Ivy, a linebacker let go by the Carolina Panthers, and Curtis Johnson, a linebacker and defensive back sent packing by the Dallas Cowboys, were brought in.

Johnson played with the Colts in 2008 (seven games) and with the Cowboys in 2009 (three games).

Ivy had 13 tackles and one forced fumble during the preseason after having spent most of the 2009 season on the Carolina practice squad after being an undrafted signee out of West Virginia.

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Seahawks Release Julius Jones, Jordon Babineaux

As usual, getting to the 53-man limit was just the start of the roster roulette for most NFL teams, and the Seattle Seahawks were certainly no exception Sunday.

The Seahawks picked up tackle Stacy Andrews from the Eagles in exchange for an undisclosed 2011 draft pick, then claimed guard Evan Dietrich-Smith from the Packers and cornerback Nate Ness from the Dolphins off waivers.

That was just the start of things to come.

Veteran running back Julius Jones, who had a so-so training camp, and safety Jordon Babineaux have been released, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter, who later tweeted that the Jones move wasn't official but was ``imminent.''

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Cardinals Claim Cyril Obiozor, Brandon McDonald Off Waivers

Filed under: Arizona Cardinals, NFC West

Looking to improve the quality of their defensive depth, the Arizona Cardinals put in a couple of claims Sunday, adding an outside linebacker in Cyril Obiozor and cornerback Brandon McDonald after they'd been waived by their previous teams.

Obiozor, who had been waived by the Green Bay Packers, spent 12 weeks on the Green Bay practice squad last year, then was active for the final five games of the season. He'd signed with the Packers as a free agent out of Texas A&M and could see immediate playing time with the Cardinals only having three outside linebackers on the roster.

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Niners New Practice Squad Quite Familiar With San Francisco

Filed under: 49ers, NFC West

The San Francisco 49ers put together their practice squad Sunday morning, and if it has a familiar look to it, there's a good reason.

Each of the eight players signed was with the club at some point during training camp workouts.

Those added to the roster include QB Jarrett Brown, FB Jehuu Caulcrick, LB Bruce Davis, WR Kevin Jurovich, OT Matt Kopa, LB Keaton Kristick, S Cnhris Maragos and DE Will Tukuafu.

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Starting 11: LSU Coach Les Miles Needs His Own Reality Show

Filed under: Auburn, Florida, LSU, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, South Carolina, SEC

Les Miles is the most overpaid coach in the history of college athletics. But he might be underpaid as an entertainer, the "Situation of the Sideline," the "Cajun Lindsay Lohan." Just as America can't seem to look away from other celebrity train wrecks, so college football fans can't look away from the man whose hat is the third tallest structure in the state of Louisiana. Even when Miles seems to have games well in hand, he doesn't. Such was the case Saturday against a depleted North Carolina squad.

Holding a 30-10 lead with just over 10 minutes remaining, against a team of backups, Miles went all Les Miles on us. That means his decision-making suddenly went askew. Two touchdowns from North Carolina sliced the LSU lead to 30-24 and the Tar Heels recovered the onside kick. UNC managed to force a turnover and took possession with 1:29 remaining.

At this point, North Carolina had two timeouts left.

This is where the entire LSU coaching staff bears the brunt of criticism. If LSU is willing to overpay Miles $4 million a year, why can't it pay someone, anyone $80,000 a year to be the voice of Les Miles reason? That person would listen on the headset and say something like, "Instead of running offensive plays, let's just take three knees, coach. They only have two timeouts left. No need to get risky here. Let's take the win and get out of town. Drop a quarterback back twice, take knees, and you're sitting at 1:20 left after they burn both of their timeouts. Take another knee, drop back until a defender gets close, knee it, and we're sitting at around 40 seconds left when we punt. Drill the ball through the end zone and North Carolina has to go 80 yards in 32 seconds with no timeouts left."

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Duncan Keith’s Day at Wrigley

Filed under: Blackhawks, NHL Videos

The Chicago Blackhawks have been celebrating nonstop since they won their first Stanley Cup in 47 years this past June. Patrick Kane has been up to lots of drunken debauchery, there was a bounty put out to help find the puck from Kane's Cup winning goal and there was the obligatory Tonight Show visit, to name just a few of the festivities.

Sunday, a pair of Hawks continued the victory parade as Duncan Keith took the field at Wrigley to throw out the first pitch at the Cubs game. Later on, he was joined by teammate Dave Bolland in the press box for the traditional guest signing of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame."

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Patrick Crayton Aside, Cowboys Tinkered Very Little With Roster

Filed under: Cowboys, NFC East

Why mess with success could be the motto in Big D in 2010.

After winning an NFC-best 69 percent of their games during their first three seasons under coach Wade Phillips, the Cowboys have remained about as steady as any team does in today's NFL.

While Dallas does have eight rookies, the roster only includes three veterans who've never worn a Dallas uniform: former St. Louis offensive tackle Alex Barron, acquired in May in exchange for linebacker Bobby Carpenter; guard Montrae Holland, signed as a free agent in May; and former Cleveland linebacker Leon Williams, signed in January out of the United Football League.

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Andy Reid Pleased With Quietly Aggressive Offseason

Filed under: Eagles, NFC East

For all the fuss over all the changes that the NFC East's only new coach, Mike Shanahan, has made in Washington, the division's longest-tenured coach, Philadelphia's Andy Reid, has made almost as many on his roster.

Although the Eagles reached the NFC Championship Game in 2008 and returned to the playoffs in 2009, nearly a third (16 players) of their roster is new to Philadelphia. Ten of those 16 newcomers were part of the Eagles' massive 13-man draft class. Another rookie, tackle Austin Howard, made the team as a free agent.

The five veterans who've never played for the Eagles are: running back Mike Bell, signed as a restricted free agent from New Orleans; defensive end Darryl Tapp and linebacker Ernie Sims, acquired in trades with Seattle and Detroit, respectively; and guard Reggie Wells and end/linebacker Antwan Barnes, who arrived via weekend deals with Arizona and Baltimore, respectively.

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Victor Cruz Among Seven Rookies Surviving Giants’ Cuts

Filed under: Giants, NFC East

Where new Redskins coach Mike Shanahan only kept two of his six draft picks, the Giants kept all five of the players they chose in April who are healthy. Linebacker Adrian Tracy and defensive back Chad Jones are on injured reserve.

Only two starters from last year's Giants, defensive tackle Fred Robbins, who signed with St. Louis as a free agent, and middle linebacker Antonio Pierce, who retired, are gone -- replaced by holdovers Chris Canty and Jonathan Goff. Two is also the number of rookie free agent receivers on New York's roster. Derek Hagan and Domenik Hixon have been replaced by Duke Calhoun and Victor Cruz, who led the NFL with 297 receiving yards and four touchdowns in preseason.

The departures of Hixon and defensive tackle Jay Alford (the first of eight members of his 2007 draft class to be let go) leaves 22 Giants who played in the unforgettable upset of the unbeaten New England Patriots 31 months ago in Super Bowl XLII.

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Darrelle Revis Signing Seizes More Leverage From Logan Mankins

Filed under: Patriots, AFC East

Not that anyone thought Logan Mankins was going to beat Darrelle Revis to his contract signing, but the fact that Revis finally did come to terms with the New York Jets late Sunday night certainly can't help Mankins in his holdout with the New England Patriots.

Now the left guard is the lone remaining high profile player choosing to take his ball and go home until he becomes the highest paid guard in the NFL -- and it doesn't appear he intends on changing his stance. And the Patriots are prepared to move on without him, whereas the Jets clearly didn't want to face the prospect of starting the season without their best defensive player.

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Mike Shanahan’s Changes in Washington Not So Drastic

Filed under: Redskins, NFC East

Mike Shanahan arrived in Washington in January with the task of changing the "what me worry?" culture that some felt had become pervasive at Redskins Park the past two seasons under predecessor Jim Zorn.

Shanahan has changed the roster during his eight months as the Redskins' coach, but not as much as might have been suspected. Less than half of the players, 20, on the 53-man roster that survived Saturday's cuts had never donned a Washington jersey before his arrival.

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Predicting the 2010 NFL Season: Packers All the Way

Filed under: AFC East, AFC North, AFC South, AFC West, NFC East, NFC North, NFC South, NFC West, NFL Predictions, NFL Analysis

According to Webster's dictionary, the first known use of the word "prediction'' was in 1561, perhaps in connection with the caber-tossing competition in Northumberland.

In the 21st century, it's something NFL fans take very seriously -- at least those folks who keep track of everyone's predictions, so at the end of the season, the Super Bowl and awards decided, they can call out those who erred.

And we all do of course.

For the record, I erred on the big one last season when I didn't have the Saints in the playoffs, then had the temerity to pick the Giants as my Super Bowl winner (looked OK when they were 5-0) and was duly chastised in public by a blogger. He didn't note that I correctly pegged Percy Harvin as the Offensive Rookie of the Year.

For the record, I don't take these things very seriously. I take them as fun to have in a business where fans and pundits (self-appointed or otherwise) know as much as the "experts''

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T.J. Houshmandzadeh Reportedly Agrees to Terms With Ravens

Filed under: Ravens, NFL Free Agency, NFL Rumors

The Ravens and wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh agreed on a one-year contract, adding another weapon to quarterback Joe Flacco's ever-growing arsenal in Baltimore. The deal will be worth $850,000, according to the National Football Post. Seattle cut Houshmandzadeh on Saturday.

Baltimore acquired Anquan Boldin from Arizona in a March trade, then signed Donte' Stallworth later in the offseason -- Stallworth is out for several weeks with a broken foot. But with or without Stallworth, the Ravens could have one of the NFL's top offenses. In addition to Boldin, Houshmandzadeh and Stallworth, the Ravens return veteran stalwart Derrick Mason, talented tight end Todd Heap and blossoming star RB Ray Rice.

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Billups’ NBA Playoff Pedigree Shows in Team USA’s Rout of Angola

Filed under: Nuggets, USA Basketball, FIBA World Championship

ISTANBUL--Nobody has attached a nifty slogan to it such as "Win or Go Home.'' But the knockout round in the World Championship is like the playoffs in the NBA.

And we've all seen how Chauncey Billups transforms when the playoffs start.

The guard was the Finals MVP when Detroit won the NBA crown in 2004 and was in line to claim the award again until the Pistons blew a nine-point second half lead in Game 7 of the 2005 Finals against San Antonio.

Billups' career regular-season scoring average: 15.4.

His postseason career scoring average: 17.8.

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Chauncey Billups Leads Team USA in Rout of Angola

Filed under: Nuggets, USA Basketball, FIBA World Championship

ISTANBUL -- Chauncey Billups had moved to shooting guard and forgot the shooting part.

But it all came back Monday.

Billups, who is Denver's starting point guard but switched to starting shooting guard for Team USA, shot just 4-of-19 from three-point range in the World Championship in the group stage.

But Billups found his range Monday against Angola. He shot 5-of-7 from beyond the arc and scored a team-high 19 points to lead the Americans to a 121-66 rout in a round-of-16 game at the Sinan Erdem Dome.

Team USA, 6-0 in the tournament, advances to a quarterfinal game Thursday against the winner between Russia and New Zealand.

It marked the third straight game Team USA faced a hopelessly outclassed foe. But the Americans didn't struggle at the start as they did against the previous two such opponents, leading both Iran and Tunisia 19-13 after the first quarter. Team USA made sure Monday's game was over early, leading 33-13 after the first quarter and 65-38 at halftime.

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Michael Clayton on New Endeavor as Bucs’ Latest Costly Cut

Filed under: Buccaneers, NFC South

Michael Clayton, the former Bucs' wide receiver, tried to prepare for the day he could not play football by starting urban clothing stores. He learned some business acumen in college at LSU working for some notable bankers and he wanted to invest and be ready.

The end may be near, and sooner than expected.

The Bucs cut Clayton this weekend. They still owe him $3 million in guaranteed money, according to Roy Cummings of the Tampa Tribune.

Clayton played for Nick Saban's national championship team at LSU and he said Saban recruited him with that old plea of "Make a 40-year decision, not a 4-year decision" meaning come to LSU and we'll get you ready for life after football.

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Former Arizona Cardinals’ QB Matt Leinart Signs with Houston Texans

Filed under: Texans, AFC South, NFL Training Camp

Three days after Matt Leinart's first NFL team released him, he found his second.

Leinart, a former Heisman Trophy winner at Southern California who was drafted in 2007 to be the franchise quarterback and the future for the Arizona Cardinals, has agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Houston Texans, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported.

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Dolphins Add Seven To Practice Squad

Filed under: Dolphins, AFC East

Prior to Monday morning's practice, the Dolphins added seven players to their eight-man practice squad, leaving one spot yet to be filled. Rookie tight end Nathan Overbay, who was with the Denver Broncos in training camp, is the one new face among the additions, joining defensive back Jonathan Amaya, defensive end Ryan Baker, guard Ray Feinga, linebackers Chris McCoy and Austin Spitler and wide receiver Julius Pruitt.

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Eagles Sport Top-Ranked Special Teams in NFC East

Filed under: Cowboys, Eagles, Giants, Redskins, NFC East

Only one kicker has ever been named the NFL's Most Valuable Player, Washington's Mark Moseley in 1982. The first coach to hire a fulltime assistant to coach special teams, George Allen, earned his greatest success with the Redskins, including the signing of Moseley, in 1974.

Allen's first special teams coach, Dick Vermeil, turned the moribund Philadelphia Eagles into a playoff team in his second season and a Super Bowl contestant in his fourth. The most prolific return man in NFL history, Brian Mitchell, played his entire 14-year career in the NFC East with the Redskins, Eagles and New York Giants, missing only Dallas.

And the NFC East's track record on special teams isn't just history. No NFC division has more seniority among its special teams coaches than Philadelphia's Bobby April (20th season working with the position group), Dallas' Joe DeCamillis (18th) and Washington's Danny Smith (12th).

So who has the NFC East's best special teams?

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Chargers Release WR Josh Reed Following Patrick Crayton Trade

Filed under: Chargers, AFC West

The Chargers' 53-man roster was weighted toward defense after the team reached the season-opening limit by releasing 23 players.

The moves left the Chargers with 29 defensive players, 21 on offense and a kicker, punter and long snapper.

Coach Norv Turner said the makeup of the roster gave him flexibility to make personnel adjustments from week to week, depending on the strengths and weaknesses of a particular opponent. Game-day active rosters are limited to 45 players.

"In terms of depth and versatility, I don't know that you could ask for more from our roster," Turner said, according to Chargers.com.

Among the players released by San Diego were wide receiver Josh Reed, a free agent who was signed as a hedge against the holdout of Pro Bowl receiver Vincent Jackson. The Chargers could afford to let him go after trading with Dallas for veteran receiver Patrick Crayton.

"We had some close calls there and situations that took a turn," Turner said. "When you make a trade or claim a player, that changes your mindset."

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Matt Barkley Leads Pac-10 Quarterback Race After Opening Weekend

Filed under: Arizona, California, Stanford, USC, Washington, Pac 10

In the conference where many of the nation's best college quarterbacks will toil this season, which Pac-10 passer had the best week in the first week?

Here's a ranked order of the top five performances:

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Matt Barkley Leads Pac-10 Quarterback Race After Opening Weekend

Filed under: Arizona, California, Stanford, USC, Washington, Pac 10

In the conference where many of the nation's best college quarterbacks will toil this season, which Pac-10 passer had the best showing in the season's first week?

Here's a ranked order of the top five performances:

1. Matt Barkley, USC. The sophomore was the brightest thing about USC's trip to Hawaii to open the Lane Kiffin era. He was efficient and opportunistic -- 257 passing yards and a school-record-tying five touchdown passes. No interceptions. No major mistakes. A run of seven straight completions to open the game. He was poised and ready to lead. And the pressure is on for him to stay that productive every week after USC's too-generous defense was exposed in Honolulu. Looks like USC is going to have to win some shootouts.

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Broncos’ Cuts Cap Injury-Riddled Training Camp, Preseason

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West

The Denver Broncos' moves to reach the 53-player limit included more than a few reminders of the team's injury-filled training camp and preseason.

Pass-rushing linebacker Elvis Dumervil and running back LenDale White were both placed on season-ending injured reserve in a blow to units on both sides of the ball.

The Broncos had held out some hope that Dumervil, whose team-record 17 sacks led the NFL last season, would be able to return from a torn pectoral muscle in December but ultimately, after consulting with doctors and the player himself, decided Dumervil would be better off taking a full year to recuperate. Dumervil tore the pectoral muscle during a 1-on-1 pass-rushing drill in the first week of training camp.

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Broncos’ Cuts Cap Injury-Riddled Training Camp, Preseason

Filed under: Broncos, AFC West

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Will Steelers’ QB Ben Roethlisberger Learn From His Mistakes?

Filed under: Steelers, AFC North

Sometimes early success can be too much for a young person. Success can go straight to their head, believes that they are untouchable and may don't take things seriously. This appeared to be the case for Pittsburgh Steelers' quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

Roethlisberger was selected as the eleventh overall NFL Draft pick in the 2004, signed a six-year deal with the Steelers worth $22.26 million in bonuses and salary with an additional $17.73 million in incentives. Within four seasons, Big Ben won a Super Bowl title, outplayed his original contract and signed an eight-year deal worth $102 million in 2008 to only bring another title to the "Steel City" the same season.

NFL quarterbacks are mainly judged by the Super Bowls they have won and quietly Roethlisberger has been more successful than Peyton Manning (Indianapolis Colts) and was on the heels of Tom Brady (New England Patriots) to be the best signal caller of the new millenium. But what Roethlisberger did create was loud noise in his personal life when Manning and Brady didn't.

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Chiefs’ Final Roster Cut Places Maurice Leggett on Season-Ending IR

Filed under: Chiefs, AFC West

Two weeks after cornerback Maurice Leggett suffered a concussion and neck injury during a collision in an exhibition at Tampa Bay, the Chiefs placed him on season-ending injured reserve as part of their cut down to the 53-player limit.

Medical tests have shown that Leggett did not suffer any spinal cord damage and the door remains open to a possible comeback in 2011. Also placed on injured reserve was wide receiver Jerheme Urban, who suffered an undisclosed injury in Thursday's exhibition finale against Green Bay.

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Chiefs’ Final Roster Cut Places Maurice Leggett on Season-Ending IR

Filed under: Chiefs, AFC West

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Chiefs’ Final Roster Cut Places Maurice Leggett on Season-Ending IR

Filed under: Chiefs, AFC West

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Raheem Brock, Fellow Titans Cuts Grapple With Release

Filed under: Titans, AFC South

Raheem Brock spent eight seasons playing defensive line for the Indianapolis Colts.

Now, it appears those might be the extent of his NFL career.

Brock, who parted ways with the Colts this past spring, was among several higher-profile veterans released on Saturday by the Tennessee Titans as they worked to trim their roster to the NFL-mandated 53-player limit. He signed with the Titans early in training camp.

The Titans also released veterans quarterback Chris Simms, cornerback Tye Hill and running back Samkon Gado, along with two drafted rookies -- sixth-round safety Myron Rolle and seventh-round defensive tackle David Howard. The Titans retained rookie quarterback Rusty Smith over Simms, along with undrafted running back LeGarrette Blount.

Smith, according to Jim Wyatt and John Glennon of The Tennessean, "showed a strong arm and good upside during the preseason." Smith completed 18 of 33 passes for 198 yards with two interceptions and a passer rating of 47.3.

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Texans QB Dan Orlovsky Remains Matt Schaub’s Understudy

Filed under: Texans, AFC South

When it comes to the Houston Texans' backup quarterback position, one or two bad throws does not a preseason make.

That's why Coach Gary Kubiak said Dan Orlovsky remains in the spot.

Orlovsky, a sixth-year NFL veteran in his second year with Houston, threw two interceptions in the preseason finale against Tampa Bay, and while Kubiak called the throws poor decisions, he said Orlovsky remains the backup behind Matt Schaub.

"Dan is our number two," Kubiak said Friday.

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Virginia Tech-Boise State Provides Loud Finish to Opening Weekend

Filed under: Boise State, Virginia Tech, ACC

LANDOVER, Md - There's no need to shout at the top of your lungs.

It actually goes without saying that the outcome of Monday night's hoedown between Boise State and Virginia Tech will have season-long implications for the BCS title game.

Beat the Hokies and the Broncos could gallop all the way to the national championship game with Gene Autry's guitar strapped to their back.

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Colts Quarterback Curtis Painter Holds Onto Job as Next Jim Sorgi

Filed under: Colts, AFC South

INDIANAPOLIS - On a cut-down day of few surprises around the Indianapolis Colts, one piece of news should have come as little surprise at all.

That piece of news is at backup quarterback.

Curtis Painter, a second-year veteran from Purdue University, remained the backup behind four-time National Football League Most Valuable Player Peyton Manning, a situation solidified when Tom Brandstater was among 23 players released by the team to trim the roster to 53 players.

Painter struggled with three interceptions in the preseason opener, and Brandstater impressed statistically at times, particularly when he threw three touchdown passes in the second half of the preseason finale.

Painter also struggled statistically in two regular-season appearances last December and January, which prompted fans and media to wonder if there might be a change.

But the reality was the team never wavered in support of Painter.

"I haven't ever felt bad about Curtis Painter," Colts President Bill Polian said following the third preseason game. "I felt good about him last preseason, and yes, he's played well in the last two weeks, but we're not surprised."

Historically, the Colts' support of Painter follows precedent. Fans and media were skeptical of Jim Sorgi's ability as a backup for several years, yet from 2004-2009, Sorgi remained solidly entrenched as the backup. The Colts prefer to grow player from within, and that's as true of the backup quarterback as it is anywhere else on the roster.

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Reports: Matt Leinart Joins Texans

Filed under: Texans, NFL Training Camp, NFL Quarterbacks

Matt Leinart, the NFL's biggest-name out-of-work former Heisman Trophy winner and top-10 draft pick, found a job on Labor Day.

Leinart, released Saturday by the Arizona Cardinals, reportedly agreed Monday to a one-year contract to play backup for the Houston Texans. Terms of the deal were unavailable.

The 10th overall pick in the 2006 draft, Leinart was considered a franchise savior when selected by the previous Cards regime. But his lack of development and questionable work ethic as a backup to Kurt Warner got the former USC superstar in head coach Ken Wisenhunt's doghouse.

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At Maryland, Two Teammates Battling Prejudice Outshine One Finger

Filed under: Maryland, Navy

Forty-six years and two return engagements later, most people still can't talk about a Maryland-Navy football game without talking about Jerry Fishman and the infamous finger.

"I think it's about time it stopped,'' said Fishman, a former Maryland linebacker whose one-digit salute to the corps of Midshipmen during a 1964 Maryland win at Byrd Stadium was long credited (or blamed) for the four-decade pause to the in-state rivalry.

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Brad Childress Lectures the Media: Stop Asking About Backup QBs

Filed under: Vikings, NFC North

I wrote a couple days ago that the Minnesota Vikings made a mistake when they traded away backup quarterback Sage Rosenfels. I'm not the only one who feels that way.

In fact, Vikings coach Brad Childress has heard from so many members of the media asking so many questions about the decision to trade Rosenfels and make Tarvaris Jackson and rookie Joe Webb the backups behind Brett Favre that he lashed out at reporters who asked him about the subject again on Sunday.

"I'm not going to deal in hypotheticals," Childress said when a reporter asked him what might happen if both Favre and Jackson get hurt. "I'm done with the backup quarterback. I'm done with it. You guys, if that's all you've got to write, good Lord."

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Ravens Release Heisman Trophy Winner Troy Smith

Filed under: Ravens, AFC North

Quarterbacks don't come a dime a dozen in the NFL. If you have a solid franchise quarterback and who's backed up by a decent signal caller, the team is in solid shape. The Baltimore Ravens have this luxury in starting quarterback Joe Flacco and two-time Pro Bowler -- once Pro Bowl MVP -- Marc Bulger as his back up.

The Ravens possessed another decent quarterback that was third on their depth chart in Troy Smith, but he didn't survive the final cut. With a strong offensive line, the Ravens felt that a third quarterback wasn't necessary. And despite the great relationship the Ravens had with Smith, Charm City's finest is focused on making its roster better for the ultimate prize.

"The competition to make our team was very heated, and we decided to keep a position player rather than a third quarterback," said Ravens' general manager and vice president Ozzie Newsome. "We have a number of young guys who made our team who have tremendous upside, plus they can help us win this year. We've gone with two quarterbacks before (last time was in 2006)."

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Better Check IDs With Saints’ Defense

Filed under: Saints, NFC South

When the 2010 NFL season starts we may see the legacy of the 2009 New Orleans Saints on full display around the league. The legacy is not Drew Brees, the record-setting quarterback. It is the exotic defense of coordinator Gregg Williams.

Quarterbacks will get under center, or in the shotgun, look across at the defense and see defenders here and there and say, "Do you have some ID."

That's the legacy. Defensive players are walking around on quarterbacks, shielding their intentions. Are you a linebacker or rush end? Are you coming to get me or tagging my receiver? NFL teams, I think, borrow from the Saints and get sneakier.

The Saints will mass defenders at the line, then bail out. Who is covering who? In the old days, the rush ends and linebackers could not run well enough to get back into the coverage.

It is all set up for one thing. To get a free runner at the quarterback. That's all it takes to blow up a play.

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In Spencer Havner, Lions Have Potential 60-Minute Player

Filed under: Lions, NFC North

If you're one of those football fans who loves nothing more than hearing the voice of John Facenda narrating an NFL Films segment about Chuck Bednarik playing all 60 minutes of a game for the Philadelphia Eagles, you should be a Spencer Havner fan.

Havner was waived by the Packers over the weekend and picked up by the Lions, and at first glance he appears to be just one of those guys who's about the 50th-best player on the 53-man roster, not on the team for much more than depth and help on special teams.

But there's something different about Havner, something that sets him apart from almost every other player in the NFL: He's capable of contributing on both offense and defense.

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Former Starter Jay Richardson Among 21 Players Released by Raiders

Filed under: Raiders, AFC West

Defensive end Jay Richardson, a former starter, was among 21 players released by the Raiders in their cut down to the season-opening roster limit of 53.

Richardson couldn't get back on the practice field after undergoing knee surgery early in training camp. He played a in a reserve role for the Raiders last season after starting for most of 2007 and 2008.

"I thought there were about four or five decisions in there that were tough," Raiders coach Tom Cable said, according to the Associated Press.

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Stacy Andrews Likely to Move Back to Tackle for Seahawks

Filed under: Seahawks, NFC West

The Seattle Seahawks still don't know how their offensive tackle situation will play out, but at least they've got plenty of depth.

The trade with the Philadelphia Eagles for Stacy Andrews adds one more body to the mix with Russell Okung, the presumed starter at left tackle before suffering an ankle injury, out for at least one game and probably for several.

Andrews was pretty much a bust with the Eagles, who asked him to play guard, then wound up having him start just twice in 10 games in 2009. He'd played tackle for two seasons with the Bengals, but had minimal NFL experience at guard when he signed a six-year, $38.9 million deal with Philadelphia just 18 months ago. Not surprisingly, he was then was asked to restructure that deal down.

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