Shockey Has Been More Analyzed Than Utilized This Season

Oct/07/06 11:02 PM Filed in: Jeremy Shockey

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J., Oct. 6 — A couple of controversies ago, Jeremy Shockey stood in the shade of a tree outside the cafeteria at training camp in Albany. It was late July, and Shockey, the Giants’ emotional tight end, was talking about his knack for creating off-field headlines.

“The controversy and that stuff, it doesn’t affect me at all,” Shockey said. “When I had controversy off the field, I played better. You can write that. I don’t think I’ve settled down or anything like that.”
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Bills rely heavily on McGahee

Oct/07/06 10:10 AM Filed in: Willis McGahee

You can’t always believe everything you see or hear coming from Miami, but Willis McGahee is the real deal.

McGahee, the much-heralded running back from the University of Miami, leads the NFL in rushing with 389 yards in four games.

He is making his mark with a team that boasts a history of tremendous running backs — including O.J. Simpson and Thurman Thomas, the last Bills running back to lead the league in rushing (1991).

Friday Notebook: Webster's Best Impression

Oct/07/06 12:57 AM Filed in: Nate Webster

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. -- Growing up in Miami Fla., Nate Webster did not have look far for someone to pattern his game after. Ray Lewis was mowing down running backs at nearby University of Miami and provided Webster the perfect on-field role model.

This week as the Broncos offense prepared for Lewis and the Ravens defense, they didn't have too look far for someone to mimic the seven-time Pro Bowler.

"Ray was a major influence -- from high school to college," Webster said. "I grew up watching him and Warren Sapp in the Orange Bowl and I kind of took a little bit of his style and mixed it with my style and it became a lethal mix. I think I gave the offense as close of a look at what Ray does as I can. I took my game after him, so I was able to model him pretty well."
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Andre Johnson Update

Oct/07/06 12:56 AM Filed in: Andre Johnson

JOHNSON CONTINUES TO SHINE Wide receiver Andre Johnson continued his stellar season on Sunday by turning in his 12th career 100-yard game with nine catches for 101 yards and a touchdown. It was his third time to top the century mark this season, and his second consecutive 100-yard game. After four weeks, Johnson has 30 receptions for 410 yards. His 30 catches ties him with the New York Jets' Laveranues Coles for the league lead, while his yardage total is third, a mere three yards Indianapolis' Marvin Harrison and two yards behind Coles.

(zwire.com)

Niners love Gore's yards, but worry about his fumbles

Oct/06/06 09:56 AM Filed in: Frank Gore

Frank Gore's first season as the San Francisco 49ers' starting running back is off to a rousing start — except for four plays.

Gore is second in the NFL with 460 yards from scrimmage — 331 rushing and 129 receiving — in the Niners' first four games. He has been speedy, durable and hard to tackle, erasing any doubts about his worthiness to take the job of Kevan Barlow, who was traded to the New York Jets.

Unfortunately, Gore also has fumbled four times — once in each of the first four games for the 49ers (1-3), who host the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Two of his fumbles occurred at their opponents' goal lines, and one was returned 98 yards for a touchdown by Philadelphia's Mike Patterson.

James might get more touches

Oct/06/06 09:54 AM Filed in: Edgerrin James

A couple of weeks ago, Edgerrin James said he wanted to be a bigger part of the Cardinals’ offense. With rookie Matt Leinart starting at quarterback, James might get his wish.

The Cardinals are expected to use the running game and the short passing game more often with Leinart, which will mean more opportunities for James against a Kansas City defense ranked third in the NFL.

“Whenever they call my name, I’m ready,” James said. “If I have to carry it 50 times, I’ll be ready 50 times.”

As middle managers, Lewis, Wilson are top tier

Oct/06/06 09:53 AM Filed in: Ray Lewis

ENGLEWOOD - Just try eliminating the middle man Monday.

In Al Wilson of Denver and Ray Lewis of Baltimore, NFL fans who tune in (6:30 p.m., CBS 4, ESPN) might be watching the two best middle linebackers in the game today.

"I certainly wouldn't argue with that," Ravens coach Brian Billick said Thursday.

Lewis is a seven-time Pro Bowl player and two-time Defensive Player of the Year since entering the league in 1996. Wilson, who broke in three years later, has been voted to the NFL's postseason all-star game four times in the past five seasons and attained All-Pro status in 2005.

Gore working on his grip

Oct/06/06 09:52 AM Filed in: Frank Gore

Throughout the week, 49ers running back Frank Gore urged his defensive teammates to take their best shots at him in practice and slap and rip at the ball.

It's part of an effort to put his fumbling problems behind him. Gore hopes that running the gauntlet will prepare him for Sunday's game against the Raiders, who will be out to pry the ball loose from a running back with four fumbles in four games.

``Everybody makes mistakes and I guess it was my time to have a rough time,'' Gore said Thursday. ``I've just got to forget about it, get it out of my head and just play ball and I'll be all right.''

Ailene Voisin: Right now, Salmons is swimming upstream

Oct/06/06 09:50 AM Filed in: John Salmons

No, John Salmons is no Bonzi Wells. Different role. Different skills. Different physique. Different personality. Very different expectations.

In fact, the Kings' major offseason signee doesn't replace Bonzi Wells as much as he creates an opening and enhances the depth on an evolving roster.

Young shooting guard Kevin Martin earned the starting job during Wells' injury absence last season, his second-half emergence -- more of an eruption than incremental improvement -- coinciding with the arrival of Ron Artest and the squad's sudden, aggressive style.
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Portis Is a Big Hit And Delivers a Few - Blocking Exploits Energize Redskins

Oct/06/06 09:49 AM Filed in: Clinton Portis

A murmur began rippling through the auditorium at Redskins Park a few minutes into the weekly Wednesday morning review of game film. With the entire roster of players and coaches assembled, running back Clinton Portis's exploits flashed on the huge screen, but the featured play had nothing to do with his 112-yard rushing effort.

Portis's blocking on the Redskins' opening score in the victory over Jacksonville on Sunday was the most talked-about highlight of the week. He delivered three clutch hits, pulled himself off the turf several times and sprinted more than 55 yards to help wide receiver Santana Moss into the end zone. Since returning from shoulder injuries two weeks ago, Portis has revitalized Washington's offense and its season, through his rushing and pass receiving, as well as more subtle contributions such as his blocking.

Vilma trying to adjust

Oct/06/06 09:48 AM Filed in: Jonathan Vilma

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- Even if it were up to him, Jonathan Vilma is not nearly ready to scrap the Jets' experiment with the 3-4 defense. And he insists he is not as discouraged about their progress or lack of it in the alignment.

"Nah, I'm not frustrated. I'm fine," Vilma said Wednesday, before slightly amending that assessment. "The only thing that's frustrating is that I'm not playing the defense perfectly, the way I want."

Cards' James Won't Play Blame Game

Oct/05/06 11:53 PM Filed in: Edgerrin James

Edgerrin James is averaging 3.1 yards per carry through his first four games with the Arizona Cardinals - by far his career-low. He says there's no use blaming his offensive line.

"A lot of people want to point fingers here and there, and I just say there's no need to point fingers because this is what we've got," James said after practice Thursday. "We're not going to have a new offensive line, a new system. We're not going to have nothing new, and we've just got to make the best of it and do what it takes."

Portis resumes dress-up time, calls himself 'Dolomite Jenkins' - Redskins running back wears brown curly wig and T-shirt that reads "Vote for Santana"

Oct/05/06 10:01 PM Filed in: Clinton Portis

ASHBURN, VA. // Clinton Portis was back in character Thursday, wearing a brown curly wig, glasses and a white T-shirt that read "Vote for Santana."

The Washington Redskins running back called himself "Dolomite Jenkins" and said he was looking for "Southeast Jerome," the character Portis portrayed before the 36-0 road loss to the New York Giants last year. The Redskins make their 2006 visit to the Meadowlands on Sunday.

"Last year, Southeast Jerome come up missing," said Portis, speaking in a raspy voice. "I'm looking for him."

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Leon Williams Update

Oct/05/06 09:59 PM Filed in: Leon Williams

SPECIAL PRAISE: Cribbs isn't the only special teamer performing well. Overall, those units "have done a nice job," Crennel said. "Some of the young guys who have to play are beginning to step up and know the game. For instance, Leon Williams has kind of been going along, but last week, he showed signs of where he needs to fit and what he needs to do to be able to play special teams in the NFL. That's a sign of improvement for the team as we go forward. He's not the only one, though. There are other guys who have stepped in. They are learning each week."

(noticias.info)

Check out the NEW NFL U Players Stats Page

Oct/05/06 02:38 PM

After numerous emails requesting such a section, now proCanes.com is your source for the easiest way to keep up with all your 'Canes stats without having to search the box scores of every game.

Click above on NFL U Player Stats and you can check out any 'Cane in the NFL stats' by clicking on the player's name in the right hand column. I will also be posting any statistical news in this section pertaining to rushing and receiving leaders as well as other things. If I have missed any players please let me know!

Enjoy the new addition to the website.

BUFFALO BILLS: McGee, Parrish want many happy returns

Oct/05/06 10:22 AM Filed in: Roscoe Parrish

ORCHARD PARK — Before he gets set to field a punt, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Roscoe Parrish has just one thought.

“I’m trying to take one to the house every time I get back there,” Parrish said. “You don’t need to be back there if you don’t think like that. You’ve gotta think big in everything you do.”

Parrish has had eight chances at punt returns this season, piling up 80 yards, good for a 10 yards-per-return average. Teamed with Terrence McGee on kick returns, Parrish gives the Bills two big weapons in the return game.

Defense's Lewis quickly delivers for the Panthers

Oct/05/06 10:20 AM Filed in: Damione Lewis

Maake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis share the same position. Kemoeatu starts for Carolina at left defensive tackle and, when an opponent is likely to pass, Lewis replaces him.

What's the difference between the two?

"Forty or 50 pounds," says defensive end Mike Rucker.

The cool thing about the NFL is that you can be 6-foot-2, weigh 301 pounds and be the little fast guy. Lewis is second on the Panthers in sacks (he has two; Julius Peppers leads with five). And he's one of four Panthers to force a fumble.

"The difference between Maake and

Moving Burrell should top to-do list - Phillies GM Pat Gillick could also shop for a third baseman.

Oct/05/06 10:16 AM Filed in: Pat Burrell

So, what does general manager Pat Gillick have to do this offseason? Here are five questions the Phillies must answer before spring training begins.

1. Will Pat Burrell be back in left field? The Phillies can't construct their 2007 lineup without knowing whether Burrell will continue patrolling left field.

Giants focus on Moss

Oct/05/06 10:15 AM Filed in: Santana Moss

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Santana Moss has lived his brother Sinorice's dream.

The 1-2 Giants just hope he doesn't live their ultimate nightmare.

The two instances could be one in the same; namely, turning a medium catch into a long touchdown to win a game on the final play.

"That's a dream of every receiver in the league," said Sinorice, the second-round rookie brother of the 2-2 Redskins' dynamic receiver, who brought three of his four catches last week against Jacksonville into the end zone. "Coming down to the last play or the last couple of plays in a game, you're just wishing you get the ball and you can make a big play."

Jets' Vilma getting caught in traffic on defense

Oct/05/06 10:13 AM Filed in: Jonathan Vilma

NEW YORK - No one said it was going to be easy, and so far, Eric Mangini's switch to a 3-4 Jets defense has been anything but.

Going into Sunday's game in Jacksonville, the Jets rank 29th in defense and 25th against the run. Worse yet, Mangini's star linebacker, Jonathan Vilma, seems to be confined by the new scheme.

It's not a big surprise. Vilma's idol and fellow Miami Hurricane, Ray Lewis, disliked the 3-4 so much that when the Ravens returned to the 4-3 last year he said, "Finally, finally again, I get to play football."

Go to Shockey, early

Oct/05/06 10:12 AM Filed in: Jeremy Shockey

Gentleman, start your engines. Now. Don't wait until the second half.

The Giants need to have a quick start, particularly in their next two games. They can't sleepwalk through the first half -- like they did in their last two outings -- Sunday at home against Washington or the following week in Atlanta.

Getting the home crowd behind them early is essential against the hot Redskins. And they must jump out early against the ground-oriented Falcons, who are much better playing with the lead than coming from behind.

Moss Brothers Share More Than Good Hands

Oct/05/06 10:10 AM Filed in: Sinorice Moss

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- Sinorice Moss has so much in common with his older brother, Santana, they are often mistaken for each other.

Unfortunately for Sinorice, five years younger and a second-round draft pick of the Giants, the genetics that bind the brothers extend to injuries that disabled both in their rookie seasons.

"[Santana says] try to be patient because he went through the same thing his rookie year [with the Jets]," said Sinorice, 22. "He tore his ACL, then came back and strained his quad. Those are things that you can't control. I can't put myself in a hole or beat myself up because I got injured. I just have to stay positive, keep rehabbing and get myself better so when it is time for me to go out there and make plays and help the team, that's what I'm going to do."

A Brother’s Footsteps Prove Hard to Follow

Oct/05/06 10:09 AM Filed in: Sinorice Moss

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J., Oct. 4 — Last December, the Giants were firsthand witnesses to what a receiver like Santana Moss can do. Their view was mostly from behind, in fruitless pursuit

Moss, the small and elusive receiver for the Washington Redskins, scored three touchdowns in a victory over the Giants. His 1,483 receiving yards last season ranked second in the N.F.L. The number of missed tackles in his wake, if such a statistic existed, might have ranked first.

And while the Giants boasted one of the league’s best offenses, they felt they needed something more. They wanted a Moss of their own.
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Varied offense pays dividends for ex-UM star

Oct/05/06 10:08 AM Filed in: Andre Johnson

Andre Johnson is finding himself to be a more integral part of the Houston Texans' offense each week, and wideout companion Eric Moulds may be as much to thank as anyone.

''I knew that if they gave Andre a lot of opportunities in one-on-one defenses, he was going to kill them,'' said Moulds, who was acquired in an offseason trade with Buffalo. ``I just came in with Coach [Gary] Kubiak, and told him what I thought.

``Usually, when you put me and Andre on the same side, it causes defenses a lot of problems. [The Dolphins] didn't know who to cover.''

D Lew Delightful so far

Oct/04/06 11:25 PM Filed in: Damione Lewis

In terms of girth, the Panthers biggest signing on the defensive line this past offseason was tackle Maake Kemoeatu. In terms of sacks, however, it has been Damione Lewis. Through four games, Lewis ranks fourth in the NFL with two sacks, and he has also contributed 12 tackles (two for loss), one forced fumble and two batted passes.

He looks comfortable on the field, which usually translates into discomfort for quarterbacks and offensive linemen. His inspired start has belied his first five years in St. Louis, where he never quite lived up to the potential of being the 12th overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft. He says the approach of the Carolina coaching staff has made all the difference in the world.
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Redskins assistant Saunders 'not happy' with Portis late rest

Oct/04/06 09:56 PM Filed in: Clinton Portis

ASHBURN, VA. // When Clinton Portis took himself out with the game with the score tied late in the fourth quarter, the coach calling the plays was far from pleased.

"I was not happy about that," Washington Redskins assistant Al Saunders said Wednesday.

Portis, who decides when he plays and when he sits, decided to sit mid-drive with the score tied at 27 and the ball in the opponent's territory in Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Ladell Betts entered and ran the ball on the next three plays, including a third-and-1 that he failed to convert.

"The first thing that went through my mind: 'Why are you coming out?'" Saunders said. "I talked to Clinton about that today. There's a scenario, and you're trying to set up things sometimes. And if he comes out to--quote, as he said--'recover,' it sometimes really throws you off."

NFL U Season Gallery Updated With More Pictures!

Oct/04/06 09:46 PM

Check out the NFL U gallery which has been updated with even more week 4 pictures featuring Andre Johnson, Santana Moss, Clinton Portis and others, by clicking above on NFL U Season Gallery or click here.

Antrell Rolle Update

Oct/04/06 05:46 PM Filed in: Antrel Rolle

Don't expect any more derogatory comments from Cardinals second-year CB Antrel Rolle, who suggested early last week that his team needed to consider making some personnel changes. We hear Rolle was read the riot act by the Arizona coaching staff and is a good bet to clam up in front of the local media for the foreseeable future.
(profootballweekly)

Edgerrin James Update

Oct/04/06 05:46 PM Filed in: Edgerrin James

When Cardinals RB Edgerrin James said last week that he thought he was being underutilized, our sources surmised that it wasn't so much that he wanted more carries but rather more receiving opportunities. We hear James would like to catch at least 4-5 passes per game.
(profootballweekly)

Sinorice Moss Update

Oct/04/06 05:44 PM Filed in: Sinorice Moss

The Giants have shut down WR Sinorice Moss indefinitely following his continued battles with a thigh injury, and no timetable has been set for his return. Though it is too early, the talk that Moss is soft already is starting to float around the club.
(profootballweekly)

Andre Johnson Update

Oct/04/06 05:44 PM Filed in: Andre Johnson

Texans WR Andre Johnson is off to a strong start, and don't overlook the way the team is using the tight ends, when looking for the reasons for his improved play. The TE position was a nonfactor for much of Dom Capers' tenure in Houston, but head coach Gary Kubiak has re-emphasized the position, and teams can no longer write off the Texans' tight ends as just blockers.
(profootballweekly)

Frank Gore Update

Oct/04/06 05:43 PM Filed in: Frank Gore

If up-and-coming Niners RB Frank Gore has a shortcoming aside from his shaky injury history, it's his tendency to get very down on himself after making mistakes. Our sources tell us Gore has been beating himself up something awful because of his recent fumbling problems (four fumbles in the first four games).
(profootballweekly)

Moss Earns NFC Weekly Honor

Oct/04/06 05:38 PM Filed in: Santana Moss

New York, NY - Washington wide receiver Santana Moss, Chicago defensive tackle Tommie Harris and Atlanta kicker Morten Andersen were named NFC Players of the Week for offense, defense and special teams, respectively, for games played in Week 4.

Moss was on the receiving end of a game-winning, 68-yard touchdown strike from Mark Brunell just 1:49 into overtime that lifted the Redskins to a 36-30 win over Jacksonville. The touchdown grab was Moss' third of the day in addition to his 138 yards receiving.

Moss matched a career-high in touchdown receptions for the third time in his career en route to earning his fourth career Player of the Week award.

(sport.monsterandcritics.com)

McGahee Out To Be A Complete Back

Oct/04/06 05:37 PM Filed in: Willis McGahee

Head coach Dick Jauron called Willis McGahee's performance last Sunday his best game under his watch.

That may come as a surprise to some Bills fans who might say, 'He only had 78 rushing yards and averaged just 2.8 yards per carry.'

Production on the ground is obviously one of his primary responsibilities, and he's been effective in that area as he leads the league in rushing through the first four weeks (389 yards). But it's not his only duty on the field.

"Willis really played an exceptional game," said Jauron. "He was outstanding in every area. He made some terrific runs, but he made a lot of blocks, aggressive blocks. He did a terrific job. That's the best I've seen him play since I've been here. And he's played really well every week, but that was the best all around."
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NFL: TEXANS: Johnson wins AFC honor

Oct/04/06 05:35 PM Filed in: Andre Johnson

/noticias.info/ HOUSTON – The NFL announced today that Houston Texans WR Andre Johnson was named AFC Offensive Player of the Week, becoming the first Texan to win the offensive honor. Five Texans have won AFC Defensive Player.

Johnson (6-3, 222), caught nine passes for 101 yards and the game-clinching touchdown to secure the Texans’ 17-15 victory over the Miami Dolphins. Johnson now has an NFL-best three 100-yard receiving days on the season.

Lang a big help with Brown out

Oct/04/06 05:33 PM Filed in: Kenard Lang

While defensive end Courtney Brown makes progress toward getting back to the field, his replacement is making a statement in his 10th NFL season.

Kenard Lang can stay on the field.

With Brown out, Lang - basically signed as pass-rushing insurance in March - has stepped in and become an integral part of the Broncos' defense. Lang has been part of the starting lineup since the beginning of the preseason because Brown has been out since Aug. 9 knee surgery.
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'He's a Big-Play Receiver' - When a Spark Is Needed on Offense, Redskins Look to Moss

Oct/04/06 08:12 AM Filed in: Santana Moss

Had the player streaking down the left sideline been wearing any number other than 89, Mark Brunell admits he would not have attempted the pass. Brunell generally chooses not to throw into double coverage, especially in overtime of a wildly competitive game, but the temptation of trying to hit Santana Moss in full stride was just too alluring to resist.

So with the safer routes ruled out, and at least one member of the offensive coaching staff screaming in his headset for the quarterback not to look in Moss's direction, Brunell pumped the ball 20 yards downfield, knowing that if he threw it hard enough and high enough the Redskins' premier playmaker might make something spectacular happen. Moss did just that, slithering between cornerback Brian Williams and safety Deon Grant to barely avoid a collision, hauling in the pass and sprinting downfield untouched to complete a game-winning, 68-yard play on the first possession of overtime Sunday evening at FedEx Field.

Portis carries offensive burden - Having running back in lineup provides punch for Redskins

Oct/04/06 08:06 AM Filed in: Clinton Portis

ASHBURN, VA. // Most running backs who have attained the stature that Clinton Portis holds for the Washington Redskins wouldn't do some of the things Portis has since training camp began in late July.

Remember Portis making the tackle of Keiwan Ratliff after the Cincinnati Bengals cornerback had intercepted a pass in the opening series of the preseason, causing Portis to partially dislocate his left shoulder? Or how about the multiple blocks Portis made Sunday on one play - freeing Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss for the first of his three catch-and-run touchdowns - in a 36-30 overtime victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars at FedEx Field?

Colts share Wayne's grief - Ex-teammates also on hand at funeral of receiver's broth

Oct/04/06 08:03 AM Filed in: Reggie Wayne

On a warm, sunny Tuesday morning, a contingent of teammates past and present gathered to support Indianapolis Colts receiver Reggie Wayne and his family in the mourning of his older brother, Rashad Anthony Wayne.

Wayne's second family came to the small, beige brick Morning Star Baptist Church in Marrero, just off the West Bank Expressway, in a show of unity for one of their own.

The Colts brought a small group of people, including quarterback Peyton Manning, Coach Tony Dungy and President Bill Polian. Wayne's former teammates -- Arizona Cardinals running back Edgerrin James and Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed of Destrehan, who played with him at the University of Miami -- also showed, as did a group of his former high school teammates from nearby John Ehret.

Patient Moss hits stride

Oct/04/06 08:01 AM Filed in: Santana Moss

When the offense sputtered in two losses and then the game plan called for almost exclusively short passes in the third game, Santana Moss didn't whine about his lack of touches, didn't blame the coaching staff for a flawed strategy and didn't call for a quarterback change.

Moss, the Washington Redskins' Pro Bowl receiver, is used to waiting his turn while waiting for an offense to take shape. He did it in high school, at the University of Miami and with the New York Jets.

"I've been patient since Day One," he said. "It started when my mom wouldn't let me play football until I was 12 years old. That appreciation has carried over. I've been through so many things that now, when something happens, I can say, 'I've seen this before.'

Shockey won’t be benched for recent blowup

Oct/03/06 08:48 PM Filed in: Jeremy Shockey

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - Pro Bowl tight end Jeremy Shockey won’t be benched for comments that the New York Giants were outcoached in a recent loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

After first refusing to answer the question, coach Tom Coughlin said Tuesday that Shockey would start against the Washington Redskins this weekend if his sprained right ankle was OK.

“We’ll see about his health and his condition,” a miffed Coughlin said Tuesday after practice. “If he can go, he’ll start.”

Giants' Moss won't get chance to go against his brother this week

Oct/03/06 08:47 PM Filed in: Sinorice Moss

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - There won't be a Moss Bowl at Giants Stadium on Sunday when the New York Giants play host to the Washington Redskins.

Rookie receiver Sinorice Moss of the Giants will be sidelined by a leg injury for the third time in four games, denying him the chance to play against his older brother, Santana, the Redskins top receiver.

"It's going to have to wait a couple of months," Sinorice Moss said Tuesday before the Giants (1-2) started preparations for the Redskins (2-2).

McGahee steps up as a blocker

Oct/03/06 03:02 PM Filed in: Willis McGahee

Willis McGahee has had many outstanding performances as a runner, but it was his role as a blocker that stood out during the Buffalo Bills' win over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.

In the first quarter, McGahee picked up pass-rushing defensive end Darrion Scott, giving quarterback J.P. Losman time to compete a 9-yard pass to receiver Lee Evans. McGahee's block on defensive tackle Spencer Johnson in the third quarter allowed Losman to scramble for 15 yards.

McGahee's most impressive block came against Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kevin Williams late in the first half. The 6-foot-5, 311-pound Williams collapsed the pocket with an inside bull rush and had his sights on Losman. But McGahee delivered a powerful blow that flattened Williams.

Steelers 'big back' limping following practice

Oct/03/06 03:01 PM Filed in: Najeh Davenport

PITTSBURGH - Since signing with the Steelers three weeks ago, Najeh Davenport has yet to play a down. Based on how he limped off the field Monday, he might not play again Sunday in San Diego.

A running back who came to Pittsburgh in hopes of assuming the "big back" role vacated by the retirement of Jerome Bettis, Davenport suffered an undisclosed injury to his right leg at Monday's practice.

"We're not allowed to talk about injuries," Davenport said. "You'll have to ask the trainer."

A sprinkle of Moss' fertilizer brings the Redskins back to life

Oct/03/06 08:43 AM Filed in: Santana Moss

The play is testimony to the changed fortunes of the Washington Redskins and the gifts that make Santana Moss one of the best receivers in pro football.

Quarterback Mark Brunell apparently ignored several better options in throwing to Moss on the 68-yard scoring play that gave the Redskins a 36-30 overtime victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday.

"I'm not going to tell you what was said," coach Joe Gibbs explained Monday, "but it was one of those deals in the headphones where you hear, 'Don't go there!' And then the pass is caught and it's 'OK, go there.'
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Piazza happy to be shining out of the spotlight's glare

Oct/03/06 08:41 AM Filed in: Mike Piazza

Mike Piazza, Hall of Fame shoo-in, all-time catching great, has a little secret.

For the first time in his storied major-league career, the onetime marquee player of the mega-market Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets spent a season practically off the grid.

Moved to San Diego. Mellowed out. Went all Left Coast and low-key - and absolutely loved it.

Moss quietly earns respect - Candid Redskins wide receiver builds reputation on plays, not publicity

Oct/03/06 08:40 AM Filed in: Santana Moss

ASHBURN, VA. // Santana Moss spoke with his mouth full, munching on two cookies as he talked with reporters in the parking lot with the television cameras rolling. His cell phone went off four times, providing a rap music soundtrack to his candid comments.

Moss didn't care. He is not about image. He rarely does anything off the field to draw attention. While other receivers get more publicity - Terrell Owens and Chad Johnson quickly come to mind - Moss is flashy only when the game is in progress.

Rookie Hester still has coaches' confidence

Oct/03/06 08:38 AM Filed in: Devin Hester

LAKE FOREST -- After a fast start, Bears punt returner Devin Hester has cooled down to the point where coach Lovie Smith acknowledged his struggles in Sunday's game on Monday at Halas Hall.

"Devin Hester had a few problems returning punts," Smith said after Hester muffed three punts that were all recovered by the Bears Sunday night against Seattle. "If you have a rookie, you'll go through a game like that. He'll come back. He's a good football player.

"He had one good return. The 26-yard return was big for us."

Moss, Portis upset with penalties

Oct/03/06 08:35 AM Filed in: Clinton Portis

The "No Fun League" reared its head in the Washington Redskins' 36-30 overtime win over the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

A week after Redskins running back Clinton Portis was flagged 15 yards for a debatable taunting call, the officiating crew called two penalties -- one on each team -- for choreographed celebrations. The rule, new this season, aims to prevent several players from performing on-field shenanigans.

Same Old Impulsive Shockey? - Signs Of Discord With Teammates

Oct/03/06 08:33 AM Filed in: Jeremy Shockey

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. -- When nature outfitted Jeremy Shockey for the NFL it provided everything but one vital accessory: discretion.

Shockey sheds defenders more efficiently than controversy, something the Giants discovered again Sept. 24 when he said his team was outplayed and outcoached during its 42-30 loss in Seattle.

The comment kept its shelf life during the Giants' bye week, inspiring debate about its long-term effect on coach Tom Coughlin's authority.

Jets: Mangini's 3-4 scheme proving difficult for Vilma

Oct/03/06 08:29 AM Filed in: Jonathan Vilma

HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. -- Perhaps he was busy. Perhaps he didn't want to talk. Maybe he was tired.

Then again, perhaps he's frustrated and believed his frustration would rear its ugly head during a probing interview in the wake of the Jets' defensive collapse Sunday against the Colts.

Whatever the reason, inside linebacker Jonathan Vilma, who is probably the most media-friendly player on the team, avoided reporters yesterday.

Colts group going to Wayne brother funeral

Oct/02/06 11:00 PM Filed in: Reggie Wayne

INDIANAPOLIS -- Coach Tony Dungy said the Indianapolis Colts plan to send a small group to Tuesday's funeral of wide receiver Reggie Wayne's brother.

Among those expected to attend are quarterback Peyton Manning, Wayne's fellow receivers, Dungy and a few others.

Dungy said other players might make their own arrangements to attend the funeral in Louisiana.

Fox: Morgan plans to play again

Oct/02/06 10:59 PM Filed in: Dan Morgan

Carolina Panthers linebacker Dan Morgan is planning to play football again, Panthers coach John Fox said today at his weekly press conference.

"He wants to play again," Fox said. "He's not talking about walking away from it, no. That's his feelings."

Morgan has been sidelined since the first game of the regular season after suffering at least his fourth concussion as an NFL player. He has also suffered two other head-jarring incidents that were not necessarily concussions, and had another concussion in college.

Reading Between the Letters, Moss Finds the Answer for a Desperate Team

Oct/02/06 06:27 PM Filed in: Santana Moss

The day began with a woman smiling sweetly at Santana Moss in the elevator of the team's Marriott Hotel and a subtle hint that she would be spending her afternoon in the front row of FedEx Field's east end zone. Right between the "W" and "A" of "Washington Redskins" painted on the wall behind the goalpost.

It was a smile he could not forget. And somehow in the tumult of the game's end, with the ball in his hands and nothing but green and the winning touchdown before him, this is what Moss remembered: between the "W" and the "A."

Week 4 NFL U Video Highlights Just Added!

Oct/02/06 11:44 AM

Check out Week 4 NFL U Video Highlights featuring Santana Moss, Clinton Portis, Kellen Winslow, Willis McGahee, Andre Johnson and more. Click at the top on NFL U Video Highlights or click here! If there are highlights from Monday night, I will add them to the video.

Redskins Report: Portis fulfills his mission to run over Peterson, Jaguars

Oct/02/06 09:44 AM Filed in: Clinton Portis

LANDOVER, Md. - Redskins running back Clinton Portis took it personally.

Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Mike Peterson told a Jacksonville reporter last week that his team's defense, one of the best in the NFL, would hold Portis well under 100 yards. In fact, he said Portis wouldn't get out of the teens.

When Portis, like Peterson a Gainesville, Fla., native, heard about it, something inside him snapped.

"It was disrespectful," said Portis, who has averaged 1,500 yards a season since entering the NFL five years ago.

Damione Lewis Update

Oct/02/06 08:23 AM Filed in: Damione Lewis

Damione Lewis Carolina tackle Damione Lewis continues to make plays when he gets into the lineup. He forced a fumble and defended two passes.
(charlotte.com)