Javarris James finds end zone again in win & extends the streak!

Javarris James led the Colts with 17 rushes for 49 yards and a touchdown against the Titans in Week 14 while also extending the streak to 136 straight regular season weeks a proCane has scored a touchdown in the NFL.

The Colts entrusted him with the feature back role down the stretch, and he outplayed a thoroughly underwhelming Donald Brown for a second straight week. The 17 touches were easily a career-high. He could be in line for a similar workload next week depending on the health of Joseph Addai and Mike Hart.

Click here to order Javarris James’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(rotoworld.com)
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After playing in 87 straight games, Vernon Carey may have to sit out Sunday

DAVIE — For the first time in five years and 88 games, the Dolphins may not have reliable No. 72 lining up at offensive tackle this Sunday for the Jets.

Right tackle Vernon Carey, who has played in 87 straight games since missing the Dolphins' 27-13 loss to Tampa Bay on Oct. 16, 2005, missed practice Thursday for the second straight day with a knee injury he suffered last Sunday against the Browns.

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano said he considers Carey day-to-day, and wouldn't say who would start if Carey cannot play, but Lydon Murtha finished out last Sunday's game after Carey left in the second half.

"We don't have to play the game today, we have to play the game on Sunday," Sparano said.

The Dolphins could also play Pat McQuistan there, and rookie John Jerry has been getting work at right tackle this week as well.
"Let's just say we have plenty of backup plans," Sparano said.

"Oviously, Vernon didn't practice today, so those plans are in motion."

Receiver Brian Hartline also missed his second straight day of practice after suffering a finger injury in the second quarter of Sunday's game. Though Sparano generally doesn't let his players play on Sunday if they don't practice during the week, he wouldn't rule out Hartline for this week's game.

"He's in the same spot as Vernon - we're just looking at him day-to-day," Sparano said.

The Dolphins do hope to get receiver Brandon Marshall back, after he missed the last two and a half games with a hamstring injury. Marshall was limited in practice on Thursday, as were Karlos Dansby (toe), Kendall Langford (neck), Jake Long (knee) and Channing Crowder (knee).
Cornerback Sean Smith was a new addition to the injury report, and had full participation with an ankle injury.

For the Jets, running back LaDainian Tomlinson and fullback Tony Richardson returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday, while safety James Ihedigbo (ankle/knee) and offensive lineman Damien Woody (knee) missed their second straight practices.

On Broadway: The Dolphins are heading to New York early Friday morning to acclimate to the weather in preparation for Sunday's game, but also to take in the Broadway play "Lombardi" on Friday night.

Several players said they are excited to check out a play for the first time in their lives, Broadway or otherwise.

"Everybody was cool with it, because it's not every day you get to go see a play with your whole team," receiver Marlon Moore said.

The fact that the play is about football doesn't hurt.

"I think everybody will be excited, because of the topic," cornerback Benny Sapp said.

Sparano said he liked the idea of taking his team to the play when owner Stephen Ross brought it up to him because Sparano is a big fan of Vince Lombardi and NFL history.

"I'm a big fan of his 'What it takes to be No. 1' speech," Sparano said. "I always have been, shared it with the team a little bit today and I think they enjoyed it."

Click here to order Vernon Carey’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(palmbeachpost.com)
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Frank Gore to begin running in eight weeks

Frank Gore (fractured hip) confirmed that he won't need surgery and expects to begin running again in eight weeks.

Gore is expected to be ready to participate in the entirety of the 49ers' offseason work. Great news for Gore, the team, and Gore's Dynasty league owners. While he's losing value as he ages, Gore avoided the worst-case scenario and should be as good as new by training camp.

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(rotoworld.com)
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Ed Reed: Hines Ward 'tried to cheap-shot me'

Accusations of cheap shots flew both ways between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens on Wednesday.

On the same day Steelers players alleged a "dirty play" tried to take out LB James Harrison, Ravens S Ed Reed said Pittsburgh WR Hines Ward made a similar gesture at him.

And, amid heavy fines being thrust upon many defensive players this season for illegal hits, Reed called for the league to make a similar crackdown on offensive players.

He alleged that Ward blocked him with the crown of his helmet early in the Steelers' win at Baltimore on Sunday.

"He tried to cheap-shot me, and he didn't get a fine," Reed said, via BaltimoreRavens.com. "He came at me with his head down. I moved out the way. Who's going to go police that?"

Two Ravens were fined for illegal hits in the loss to Pittsburgh, with Jameel McClain docked $40,000 and Haloti Ngata $15,000.

And Reed saw clear differences between Ward's block on him and McClain's hit on Heath Miller that drew the fine.

"You've got to see that he came at me," Reed said. (Ward was) trying to do it. (McClain) wasn't trying to hurt the guy. He's just playing football. (Ward) was trying to hurt me. He was trying to take me out the game.

"What are they going to do about that? They're not going to do anything about that."

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(usatoday.com)
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Devin Hester tries to stay patient

LAKE FOREST – Fifty-four days have passed since Bears special-teams threat Devin Hester tied former return man Brian Mitchell for the most return touchdowns in NFL history.

Not one of those days has Hester made it through without thinking of the record.

“At the end of the day, I’ve got to have patience,” Hester said Thursday at Halas Hall, where the Bears practiced outdoors in frigid weather. “The fans have got to have patience.”

Hester nearly grabbed sole possession of the record last week with a punt return against the Detroit Lions, only to be tripped up by punter Nick Harris. Instead, he will try to make history this weekend against New England in his seventh game since matching Mitchell’s record.

“I think I’m starting to appreciate it more than if I’d have broken it earlier this year,” said Hester, who is in his fifth season with the Bears. “I don’t think I would have appreciated it as much, but now I see that it’s a big thing. I’m really looking forward to breaking this record.”

Hester returned punts for touchdowns against Green Bay and Seattle this season.

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(nwherald.com)
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Ray Lewis apologizes for avoiding media Sunday night

The Ravens’ 13-10 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers was tough on coaches and players – perhaps none moreso than inside linebacker Ray Lewis.

Lewis didn’t stick around after the conclusion of Sunday night’s loss to discuss the game, showering and changing quickly before vacating the locker room. On Thursday, Lewis apologized for his swift exit.

“When you’ve been in this business long enough, you learn very quickly, and when you’re that emotional, there was nothing I would’ve said that probably would’ve been good,” he said. “So I was like, ‘You know what? The best thing for me to do is keep [my mouth shut].’ But honestly, when you put your heart outside like that and to lose the game like that, it can mess with you."

Lewis added, "And I always tell you guys, you always go through your 24-hour rule. Get it out of your system – win, lose or draw – and then it’s done. Today, and even right after the game, I was right back at it because other things had me thinking about other things. But at that time, as a leader, I knew I shouldn’t have done it. So I definitely apologize. Will it ever happen again? Hopefully, we don’t lose like that again. But bottom line is, just move on and make sure it won’t happen again.”

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(baltimoresun.com)
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Giants safety Antrel Rolle works with combat veterans

Less than a week after he put his foot in his mouth by comparing the Giants being booed by their fans to booing the troops coming home from Iraq, Antrel Rolle worked side-by-side with veterans packing care packages.

“It was great. It was great,” Rolle said. “It was an opportunity, a way to show a small token of our appreciation for what they do for us. Of course we can never put ourselves in their positions, but it always good for them to come home and have welcoming gifts, especially around the holidays.”

Rolle was one of eight Giants players who went to JCPenney’s in Herald Square Tuesday night to help out with “Combat to Career,” sponsored by Joseph Abboud. The players, including Kevin Boss, Corey Webster and Shaun O’Hara, made packages that included things like umbrellas, makeup and shaving kits to help returning veterans transition back into civilian life.

Rolle said he had been scheduled to appear at the event before his comments about the troops last week.

“That didn’t have anything to do with it,” Rolle said. “None.”

In trying to clarify his comments criticizing fans for booing the in the Nov. 27 win over the Jaguars, he compared it to the troops being booed.

“We risk ourselves out there on the field each and every day also. When soldiers come home from Iraq you don’t boo them. I look at it the same way. I take my job seriously.”

Hours later, Rolle clarified his comments.

“Obviously, there is no comparison between the men and women of our military putting their life on the line defending our country and what I do,” Rolle said in a statement issued by the team. “They risk their lives and that gives me the opportunity to play a game for a living.”

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(nydailynews.com)
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Jeremy Shockey Talks About The U's New Head Coach Search



Click here to order Jeremy Shockey’s proCane Rookie Card.


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Antrel Rolle In Lead In Pro Bowl Voting

With two weeks remaining in the voting period, two Giants players are the top vote-getters at their positions as voted by the fans on NFL.com   The winners will get  an opportunity to represent the NFC in Hawaii at the Pro Bowl in January.

Shaun O’Hara, despite only playing in four games this season leads all NFC centers with 149,394 votes.

Antrel Rolle is the frontrunner at free safety in the NFC with 111,510 votes.

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(giantsfootballblog.com)
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Andre Johnson leads Pro Bowl voting

Running back Arian Foster and wide receiver Andre Johnson are the AFC's leading vote getters at their positions in balloting for the Pro Bowl at nfl.com.

Foster, who leads the league in rushing, yards from scrimmage, total touchdowns, rushing touchdowns and first downs, has 414,033 votes. Johnson, who is trying to become the first receiver with three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, has 340,996 votes.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick leads all players with 729,838 votes.

Voting continues online and on web-enabled mobile phones by going to www.nfl.com/probowl. Fans also can vote by visiting www.facebook.com/nfl and clicking the Pro Bowl tab.

Voting ends Dec. 20, and players chosen for the all-star will be announced on Dec. 28 on the NFL Network's Pro Bowl Selection Show.
The Pro Bowl will be held on Jan. 30 in Honolulu.

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(chron.com)
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Ray Lewis and Mom Honored by Foundation Fighting Blindness

It’s no secret that legendary linebacker Ray Lewis is one of the most important player on the Baltimore Ravens team. But the 14-year veteran is just as important to the Baltimore community. That’s why Lewis and his mother, Sunseria “Buffy” Smith, were both honored with Visionary Awards by the Foundation Fighting Blindness on Nov. 30 at M&T Bank Stadium for their leadership and generosity in the Baltimore community.  Lewis is founder of The Ray Lewis Foundation, which, among other things, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of at-risk youth.

“It’s an honor to be recognized by the Foundation Fighting Blindness. I’m thrilled to be connected to such a great organization whose main mission is restoring sight. I admire the Foundation’s commitment and the progress they have made in helping so many,” said Lewis. “I couldn’t be more proud to receive a Visionary Award from an organization that itself is so visionary, leading the way through funding retinal degenerative research.” 

Lewis has and always will credits his mother, vice president of The Ray Lewis Foundation, for instilling his sense of civic duty. Smith almost single-handedly organizes and oversees programs that support children and families in need. One of the programs that she oversees is an annual Thanksgiving Turkey Give-Away to unfortunate families in Baltimore City.

“I had a vision when Ray was still in my womb that he was going to carry a great purpose in life, so I know a little something about being a visionary,” Smith said . “It’s truly an honor to be celebrated for your contributions, but Ray knows how much he is needed in the community and it will always be his vision to take care of those who need him.”

A few other Baltimore Ravens players were also present in support of Lewis, including Haloti Ngata and Jarette Johnson. Besides Lewis and Smith, local businessman David Cordish was also honored with a Visionary Award. Cordish, chairman of The Cordish Companies, is known for revitalizing depressed areas, such as Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and has helped improve some of the nation's most worn down urban communities.

“It’s an absolute honor to receive a Visionary Award from the Foundation Fighting Blindness. Hard work and focus are integral to any significant endeavor, and the Foundation Fighting Blindness embodies these qualities,” said Cordish. “I can’t think of a better cause to support than giving the gift of vision.”

The mission of the Foundation Fighting Blindness (www.FightBlindness.org) is to drive research that will provide preventions, treatments and cures for people affected by retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, Usher syndrome, and the entire spectrum of retinal degenerative diseases.  Since its inception in 1971, the Foundation has raised more than $400 million.

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(afro.com)
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Spencer Adkins Helps Set a Guiness World Record





Students from across the metro Atlanta area follow the lead of Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Spencer Adkins during an attempt to set the Guinness World Record for the largest virtual physical education class Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2010, in Atlanta. An adjudicator from the Guinness World Records verified that 2,288 elementary and middle students gathered at the Georgia Dome on Tuesday, setting the record for the largest virtual physical education class.


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(signonsandiego.com)
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York fans turn out for Ray Lewis' autograph

Erik Kuntz didn't mind changing his schedule around after he heard that Baltimore Ravens' linebacker Ray Lewis was coming to the West Manchester Mall to sign autographs.

Even though Kuntz, 28, isn't a Ravens fan, he knew that this was a perfect opportunity for him to surprise his 8-year old step-son, Jordan Lagana.

So the Manchester resident took the whole day off work Tuesday and skipped practice as a coach for the junior high wrestling team at York Suburban to be the first one in line for the signing. He arrived at the mall when it opened at 10 a.m. and waited more than eight hours to be first of more than 200 autograph seekers in line when Lewis began his signing shortly after 6:30 p.m. The autographs ranged in cost from $25 to $99, depending on what was signed.

The wait was worth it. Lewis signed Lagana's Ravens' jersey, which will be framed and kept as a lasting piece of memorabilia.

"It will never be worn again," said Jamie Lagana, who is Jordan's father.

While Lewis didn't have a lot of time to talk with those he was signing for, he did manage to have a playful response when Jordan Lagana informed the Ravens' superstar that he was going to take over his spot when Lewis retires.

"He said, 'OK,'" said the younger Lagana, who was wearing a purple Ravens' hoodie in addition to a big smile.

Kuntz made sure to keep Tuesday's plan a surprise from Jordan, who didn't find out what he was in for until the car ride over the to the mall.
"I thought I was going to faint," the younger Lagana said.

Lewis' signing provided a positive experience for Gettysburg's Jacob Rock. The 12-year old attended Tuesday's event with his mother, Montana Wentz, and his school mentor, Jonathan Carter.

The pairing of Carter and Rock was easily the most unique of all those who were at the signing. That's because Rock was decked out in his purple Ravens' sweatshirt, a stark contrast to Carter, who wore a Pittsburgh Steelers' jersey.

"I told him to keep his jacket on," Rock said jokingly.

Carter, 27, knew he would be at the event as soon as he heard about it. While the Pittsburgh native has always been a die-hard Steelers' fan, he nevertheless appreciates a talented player such as Lewis.

The fact that Rock, who attends Gettysburg Middle School, shares that opinion made the decision to go a no-brainer.

"He's a fan," Carter said of Rock. "You have to put friends before rivalries."

While both Carter and Rock brought the exact same picture of Lewis that they wanted signed, what they will do with the picture contrasted significantly.

No big surprise there.

"(Jacob) will probably keep his," Carter said. "I'll probably sell mine on eBay."

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(yorkdispatch.com)
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Kubiak amazed by Andre Johnson's toughness

Coach Gary Kubiak emphasized Tuesday how much pain Andre Johnson plays with, and he's still got 71 catches for 1,018 yards.

"I think he's been absolutely amazing," Kubiak said. "I think it's kind of flown under the radar. This guy has played with a hurt ankle all year long, except for opening day. He's missed a game and a half, really played limping around for almost a month, and yet he's sitting there in the top four or five guys in the league at receiver.

"I'm surprised more people haven't said things about it. For him to give it up for his team has been incredible. He knows if he gets himself to game day and takes his shot that he can make it through the game, first team.

"Those high ankle sprains are very difficult to deal with; they take a long time to recover from. They're just nagging as they can be. Some players can play with them, (players) you don't notice like linemen. But with receivers, it's much more difficult to deal with, so for him to be able to do that is pretty special."

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(chron.com)
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Jon Beason beaten up but not beaten by losses

Jon Beason walked into the media room at Bank of America Stadium on Monday wearing dark sweats with a matching mood.

"I hope it's not repetitive," Beason said to two reporters waiting to interview him.

It's the repetitive losing that's worn on the Carolina Panthers' Pro Bowl linebacker.
Like everyone else in the Panthers organization, this has been a difficult season for Beason. He switched positions at midseason, has battled a knee injury much of the year and has seen his productivity dip below his standards.

While he's on track to lead the Panthers (1-11) in tackles for the fourth consecutive year, Beason will take little from the 2010 season other than perspective.

"It's going to be a tough one, man. It's going to be a tough pill to swallow," he said. "But we're men. I think when you go through the bad, it definitely makes the good all the more sweeter."

Beason has been good since the Panthers drafted him in the first round in 2007. As a rookie he set a team record with 160 tackles, a mark he broke last season when he finished with 169 stops and made the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year.

Beason agreed to move from middle linebacker to the weakside before this season when Thomas Davis was injured. Just when he was getting comfortable at the new spot, Beason returned to the middle when Dan Connor broke his hip in Week9.

Though Beason is on pace to finish with 168 tackles, one off last season's record total, he didn't record a sack until Sunday at Seattle and admits his production is off a bit.

"I look at the numbers, and they're pretty comparable to everybody else in the league. So I don't think I fell off or anything like that," Beason said. "But personally, I know I'm capable of a lot more. That's a tribute to the guys around me. The guys around me are playing well, too."

In his first season as a starter, strongside linebacker James Anderson has a career-high 120 tackles and has filled up the stat sheet with four sacks, a forced fumble, three fumble recoveries and an interception.

Jason Williams, claimed in November after Dallas waived him, also has played well.

Beason said at times he has tried to do too much - perhaps a product of switching positions and a tendency that has plagued the defense as a whole. The Panthers have fallen from fourth to 17th in total defense in five weeks.

"I think there's trust issues because, like we've been saying all year, different guys make different mistakes at different times. We can't all be on the same page at the same time," Beason said. "You're guessing. Should you go do your job or should you do someone else's job?"

"When you try to do someone else's job, you end up not doing your job.

"So it's a reoccurring event. Over and over again, just not executing."

Panthers coach John Fox understands Beason's frustrations.

"I think it's been a tough season on everybody, I think him included," Fox said. "He had some teammates (leave) that I know he was close to. But he's responded well. It's gone for him probably like it's gone for all of us.

"Not a reflection on his play, but just our results."

Beason has stayed off the injury report, but he has been bothered by swelling in his knee. He receives treatment during the week so he can practice and be on the field on Sundays.

"On Monday, it kind of starts all over," he said of treating the knee.

But there's no starting over for the Panthers - at least not until the offseason.

"When you go down in the dumps and you feel like it can't get any worse, you remember those times and how it felt. I think moving forward just in preparation and the offseason, the things that you do on a day-to-day basis are going to determine what happens in September," Beason said.

"The beauty about this league is no one really remembers what you did yesterday. It's all about tomorrow."

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(charlotteobserver.com)
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proCanes Stats From Week 13 of the 2010 NFL U Season

Andre Johnson (Texans): 6 catches 149 yards

Darryl Sharpton (Texans): 2 solo tackles

Vince Wilfork (Patriots): 3 solo tackles

Brandon Meriweather (Patriots): 6 tackles, 4 solo tackles

Jeremy Shockey (Saints): 2 catches 28 yards

Jonathan Vilma (Saints): 8 tackles, 3 solo tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss

Santana Moss (Redskins): 2 catches 24 yards, 1 solo tackle

Clinton Portis (Redskins): DID NOT PLAY, placed on IR

Rocky McIntosh (Redskins): 5 tackles, 3 solo tackles, 1 pass deflection

Calais Campbell (Cardinals): 2 tackles, 1 solo tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss

Antrel Rolle (Giants): 5 tackles, 4 solo tackles

Kelly Jennings (Seahawks): 7 tackles, 5 solo tackles, 1 pass deflection

Frank Gore (49ers): DID NOT PLAY, Injured Hip, placed on IR

Kellen Winslow (Buccanneers): 3 catches for 26 yards

Roscoe Parrish (Bills): DID NOT PLAY, Injured wrist, placed on IR

Greg Olsen (Bears): 1 catch 5 yards

Devin Hester (Bears): 1 catch, 1 yard, 1 rush for 5 yards and 2 punt returns for 37 yards, 3 kick returns for 56 yards.

Willis McGahee (Ravens): 7 carries, 7 yards

Ray Lewis (Ravens): 13 tackles, 12 solo tackles

Ed Reed (Ravens): 3 solo tackles

Tavares Gooden (Ravens): 3 tackles, 1 solo tackle

DJ Williams (Broncos): 9 tackles, 7 solo tackles

Sinorice Moss (Giants): DID NOT PLAY on IR Will miss the entire 2010 Season

Bruce Johnson (Giants): Underwent arthroscopic knee surgery, placed on IR

Kenny Phillips (Giants): 5 solo tackles

Reggie Wayne (Colts): 14 catches, 200 yards, 1 TD

Jon Beason (Panthers): 6 tackles, 4 solo tackles, 1 sack, 1 tackle for loss

Phillip Buchanon (Redskins): 4 solo tackles, 1 pass deflection

Antonio Dixon (Eagles): 1 solo tackle

Sam Shields (Packers): 3 kickoff returns for 57 yards

Jimmy Graham (Saints): 3 catches, 72 yards

Leon Williams (Cowboys): Played but did not record any stats.

Spencer Adkins (Falcons): 1 solo tackle

Javarris James (Colts): 6 carries for 18 yards, 2 TDs

Damione Lewis (Texans): 1 solo tackle

Jason Fox (Lions): DID NOT PLAY, INACTIVE

Eric Winston (Texans): Offensive Lineman, did not record any stats.

Rashad Butler (Texans): Offensive Lineman, did not record any stats.

Bryant McKinnie (Vikings): Offensive Lineman, did not record any stats.

Chris Myers (Texans): Offensive Lineman, did not record any stats.

Vernon Carey (Dolphins): Offensive Lineman, did not record any stats.


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Jon Beason still beastly

Bruising Carolina linebacker Jon Beason finished with six tackles and a sack in the Panthers' 31-14 loss at Seattle on Sunday. It was his first sack of the season. Beason was recently moved back to the MLB position and has excelled there despite the Panthers not accumulating many wins.

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(fantasysp.com)
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Phillip Buchanon Says Benching Was Coaches Decision

Three weeks ago, when he filled in for starting cornerback Carlos Rogers against Tennessee, veteran Phillip Buchanon said, "I know I'm a starter." But in Sunday's 31-7 loss to the Giants, Rogers was out again, and Buchanon was benched in the second half, replaced by second-year corner Kevin Barnes. "No comment on that," Buchanon said. "That's the coaches' decision." Asked if he thought his play slipped Sunday, he said: "I'm just playing football. Things happen." Buchanon said he spent the second half, when he did not play a snap, working with Barnes, who played more extensively than he had at any point in his career. "What I do is I just go out there and try to help the team the best way I can," Buchanon said. "Like I said, that was a coaches' decision. They made the decision. It is what it is."

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(gridironfans.com)
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Reds fielding calls about Yonder Alonso

ORLANDO – The Cincinnati Reds continue to receive calls about Yonder Alonso(notes), their 23-year-old first baseman and No. 1 pick whose path to the big leagues is blocked at least in part by MVP Joey Votto(notes).

Several inquiring teams have come away from conversations with GM Walt Jocketty believing the Reds are hesitant to trade Alonso, however, because Votto could be difficult to sign to a long-term deal – both in terms of Votto’s expectations and the club’s ability to carry what would be such a large contract.

Jocketty, according to the clubs, has suggested he may be forced to trade Votto before he reaches free agency. Votto is arbitration-eligible for the first time, so the Reds might not consider trading him for at least another two years.

Alonso played 30 games in left field in the minors last season, though first base is viewed as his more natural position.


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(sports.yahoo.com)
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proCanes Extend TD Streak to 135 Regular Season Weeks

Did you know that a former Miami Hurricane/current proCane has scored at least one touchdown in 135 consecutive regular season NFL weeks? Dating back to Week 15 of the 2002 season where Clinton Portis scored 4 TDs, at least one proCane has scored a TD in each regular season week since then. We have chronicled every touchdown since 2002. See below:

Week 13 2010:
Reggie Wayne - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts
Javarris James - 2 TDs - Indianapolis Colts

Week 12 2010:
Andre Johnson - 1 TD - Houston Texans
Greg Olsen - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Kellen Winslow - 1 TD - Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Week 11 2010:
Santana Moss - 1 TD - Washington Redskins
Ray Lewis - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens
Reggie Wayne - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts

Week 10 2010:
Javarris James - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts
Greg Olsen - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Devin Hester - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Andre Johnson - 1 TD - Houston Texans
Frank Gore - 1 TD - San Francisco 49ers
Kellen Winslow - 1 TD - Tampa Bay Buccaneers (first TD of the season)

Week 9 2010:
Willis McGahee - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens
Jeremy Shockey - 1 TD - New Orleans Saints
Javarris James - 2 TDs - Indianapolis Colts (first career TD)
Jimmy Graham - 1 TD - New Orleans Saints (first career TD)
Greg Olsen - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Roscoe Parrish - 1 TD - Buffalo Bills

Week 8 2010:
Frank Gore - 1 TD - San Francisco 49ers
Andre Johnson - 1 TD - Houston Texans
Reggie Wayne - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts

Week 7 2010:
Willis McGahee - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens
Santana Moss - 1 TD - Washington Redskins

Week 6 2010:
Devin Hester - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Andre Johnson - 1 TD - Houston Texans

Week 5 2010:
Willis McGahee - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens
Jeremy Shockey - 1 TD - New Orleans Saints
Frank Gore - 1 TD - San Francisco 49ers

Week 4 2010:
Willis McGahee - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens

Week 3 2010:
Jeremy Shockey - 1 TD - New Orleans Saints
Santana Moss - 1 TD - Washington Redskins
Greg Olsen - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Devin Hester - 1 TD - Chicago Bears

Week 2 2010:
Greg Olsen - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Devin Hester - 1 TD - Chicago Bears
Clinton Portis - 2 TDs - Washingon Redskins
Andre Johnson - 1 TD - Houston Texans
Reggie Wayne - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts
Frank Gore - 1 TD - San Francisco 49ers

Week 1 2010:
Reggie Wayne - 1 TD - Indianapolis Colts
Roscoe Parrish - 1 TD - Buffalo Bills
Willis McGahee - 1 TD - Baltimore Ravens

Click below to see the rest of the list:


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Javarris James punches in two goal line looks for TDs

Javarris James carried the ball six times for 18 yards and two touchdowns in the Colts' Week 13 loss.

He also added two receptions for 17 yards. James was the most impressive of the team's running trio, though he started his day late with Dallas' defense already worn down. He punched in both of his goal line looks, and made a strong case for being active when Joseph Addai returns. It will be interesting to see which runner gets scratched once that happens. James is worth adding, but don't count on him to make an impact.

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(rotoworld.com)
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Reggie Wayne goes off for 200 yards in OT loss

Reggie Wayne caught 14 passes for 200 yards and a touchdown in the Colts' 38-35 loss to Dallas in Week 13.

An out of this world performance from the veteran wide receiver, who was able to get open at will against a thin Dallas secondary. Wayne went off for five receptions on the team's touchdown drive to send the game into overtime, and came a yard short of getting another touchdown earlier in the game. While he's unlikely to see 20 targets in a game anytime soon, he remains an elite WR1 for the fantasy playoffs.

Click here to order Reggie Wayne’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(nbcsports.com)
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Jimmy Graham totals 72 yards in Week 13

Jimmy Graham caught three passes for 72 yards against the Bengals in Week 13.

Graham went deep down the seam for a 52-yard gain to set up a field goal. He would have added another 14-yard grab on the same drive if not for a holding penalty. Graham was officially targeted just the three times, so he's not yet trustworthy as a weekly fantasy starter. He's fine TE2 roster stash, however.

Click here to order Jimmy Graham’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(nbcsports.com)
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Jeremy Shockey held to 28 yards in Week 13

Jeremy Shockey was held to just two receptions for 28 yards against the Bengals in Week 13.

Shockey set up Chris Ivory's 1-yard score with a diving, one-handed catch inside the 5-yard line. With rookie Jimmy Graham emerging as a threat, Shockey's passing-game role is diminishing. There's no reason to carry him in 12-team leagues.

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(rotworld.com)
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CB Phillip Buchanon benched in second half

The Redskins entered Sunday's game against the Giants with a depleted secondary. Cornerback Carlos Rogers was out with a hamstring problem for the second time in three weeks, and safety LaRon Landry missed his third straight game with an Achilles' tendon injury.

With that, veteran Phillip Buchanon, who has played well over the past month, started at cornerback. But by the second half, Buchanon had been replaced by third-year cornerback Kevin Barnes. Coach Mike Shanahan was asked why.

"Because he wasn't playing good enough in the first half," Shanahan said. "He was benched."

That left Barnes with his most extensive playing time of his career. He was credited with three tackles and one pass defended. Buchanon was in on four tackles in the first half, and he also broke up one pass.

Click here to order Phillip Buchanon’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(washingtonpost.com)
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TE Greg Olsen really new kid on block

Bears tight end Greg Olsen, who is tied for fourth in the NFL with five receiving touchdowns, has been the central character on some highlight-reel catches.

But Olsen also has been a secondary part of some explosive runs and catches by running back Matt Forte.

''I'm still a work in progress, and there's still plays I'd like to have back,'' said Olsen, who is fifth on the team in catches (29) and receiving yardage (331). ''But, for the most part, I feel [my blocking has] been a step up from where it's been. And each year I'll just continue to get better at that phase, and I'll catch it up to the passing game.

''By no means am I the best blocker in the league, but it's something I do take pride in. I'm not just a guy who is out there running around and catching the ball."

Offensive coordinator Mike Martz said Olsen continues to work on keeping his pad level down.

''He was what we would call an overanxious blocker,'' Martz said. ''He would go flying in there out of control. But he's certainly willing, and he'd stick his face in there.''

Tight ends coach Mike DeBord said he was aware of Olsen's reputation for not being a great blocker.

''I had heard it, yes,'' DeBord said. ''But I just thought he was inconsistent with his blocking. There were times he had good blocks and other times he didn't. The main thing is to be consistent, and that's what he's been working on. And he's done a nice job of that this season.''

DeBord said the proof Olsen has improved is that the offense calls on him to line him up in the backfield or splits him outside.

''We've got him blocking everywhere,'' DeBord said. ''Perimeter, line of scrimmage, backfield, he's all over the place.''

Olsen called his growth as a blocker a ''natural progression,'' noting he hadn't been asked to block very much in college at Miami.
''It's a lot easier to be good in the passing game because a lot of it is natural,'' he said.

But he has learned something about blocking.

''It's not the strongest guy; it's footwork, leverage and hand placement,'' he said. ''Those are the things I've worked on with coach DeBord and coach Martz and coach [Mike] Tice.

''But it doesn't change overnight.''

Click here to order Greg Olsen’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(suntimes.com)
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Ray Lewis is still giving his all, and he has no plans to slow down

Ray Lewis always tries to give back, whether it's to the Ravens or the city of Baltimore.

Two days after sealing a Ravens victory with another big play, the magnetizing middle linebacker was making an impact in a different way in West Baltimore, where he handed out 800 turkeys to needy families.

A Thanksgiving tradition for 11 straight years, Lewis has been providing food, handshakes and hugs to the people of his adopted hometown.

From Lewis' perspective, it's not about handouts. It's about being hands-on.

"I was once in that line before," Lewis said. "Me and my mom, we grew up hard. She made sure that when we got older, we knew that giving back was one of the most important things."

The Ravens have been among those who have leaned on Lewis. For a decade and a half, a span of 204 games, he has been the team's leading tackler and unquestioned leader.

Lewis is playing every snap at age 35, a time when most great linebackers have been long retired. He is changing games in the fourth quarter, when most 30-something players are tiring.

"Big Play Ray" is a major reason the Ravens (7-3) are in the playoff hunt heading into Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3).

Although Lewis isn't the same dominant force he was a decade ago, when he won two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards, he's still among the league's top playmakers. In more than half of the Ravens' victories this season, Lewis has delivered a devastating hit, intercepted a pass or forced a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Those are the moments Lewis relishes most.

"For me, being the leader of this defense, I have to make those plays," Lewis said.

In a one-point win at the New York Jets, Lewis broke up a pass to Dustin Keller with 48 seconds left by drilling the tight end. In Pittsburgh, he clinched the three-point win with a diving interception of Charlie Batch with 18 seconds remaining. Against Buffalo, he ripped the ball away from rookie tight end Shawn Nelson in overtime to set up the game-winning field goal.

And on Sunday, seconds after Ed Reed's interception and lateral for a touchdown, Lewis put the finishing touches on a 37-13 win by returning an interception 24 yards to the end zone.

"Great players thrive on opportunities to close games out," Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said. "When you talk Michael Jordan, you talk about him taking the shots at the end of the game. You talk about Tiger Woods making the putt. You talk about Reggie Jackson hitting home runs in the World Series."

Newsome added: "To be able to enjoy this ride and his career, it's been fun. But it's been surprising because he keeps achieving even more and more."

Not 'an old man'
It was two years ago when a younger player on another team called Lewis "an old man."

Wrong move.

"I looked at him and said, 'You'd better pray you play as long as me,' " Lewis recalled last week.

In his 15th season, Lewis is beating quarterbacks and running backs while he beats the odds. No other great middle linebacker has played as long as Lewis.

Mike Singletary retired after 12 seasons before his play declined. Jack Lambert walked away after 11 years because of a severe toe injury. And Dick Butkus stopped after nine seasons because of multiple knee injuries.

Now, Lewis is set to earn his 12th Pro Bowl invitation.

When John Harbaugh was hired as the Ravens' coach in 2008, he talked about reducing Lewis' snaps to lengthen his career. By taking Lewis off the field in passing situations, the Ravens could lessen the wear and tear on his body.

That conversation apparently didn't last very long.

"I broached the subject with him, and the response I basically get is, 'When the time comes, we can talk about it,' " Harbaugh said. "I agree with that because he's humble enough to say the time is going to come. ... But he's not going to easily admit that he's not the best player on the field. And right now, if I tried to make that case, it would be impossible because he's playing so well.”

Harbaugh said he probably won't bring it up again until Lewis turns 40.

Lewis is 11th in the NFL with 83 tackles this season, including a team-high 10 at Carolina. When he returned that interception for a touchdown, he became the first player in NFL history with at least 35 sacks and 30 interceptions.

After Lewis' touchdown put the Ravens ahead by 24 points, a few players, like Reed, were pulled for the final five minutes. Lewis shook his head.

"When I retire, I will be off the field a lot. But right now, I've got too much work to do," he said. "There's no 'backer in the game better at doing what I do."

Smarter and stronger
Outside linebacker Jarret Johnson was feeling good about himself because he watched an hour of film on his day off.

That is, until he realized Lewis had watched six hours.

"A lot of times, you hear, 'He's a student of the game, and he watches film.' But a lot of times, it's not really true," Johnson said. "Ray is ridiculous about how much [of] a student of the game he is. He comes in [Wednesday] morning already telling us what [the Buccaneers are] doing."

His dedication to watching film was tested this week. Because he was handing out turkeys Tuesday, he didn't start breaking down Tampa Bay until late.

"When I got home, I turned on the computer and fell asleep watching it," Lewis said. "That's the normal routine."

An older Lewis is not just smarter. He says he's stronger. It was only last season when Lewis' hit broke the shoulder of Pittsburgh running back Rashard Mendenhall.

When he takes the field Sunday, he'll be chasing Tampa Bay running back LeGarrette Blount, who is 12 years younger than the Ravens linebacker. Some would say Lewis is at a disadvantage. Lewis says it's the other way around.

"You look at it and say, 'This guy is 12 years younger.' I'm saying my body is 12 years more developed," Lewis said. "I'm running and hitting these little kids, and I know they're not going to deal with 60 minutes of this."

No end in sight
There will be a time when Lewis will leave the football field. But he says he'll never leave Baltimore.

"I got a true vision to clean up Baltimore," he said. "I want us to go away from being rated the No. 2 murder capital of the world and become a place where people are comfortable coming here and not worry about this craziness."

Lewis, who lived in Florida and played college football at Miami, is rooted in the Baltimore community.

He runs the Ray Lewis Foundation, which provides financial help to disadvantaged youth. He has fed more than 4,000 families the past decade at his Thanksgiving event. He held boot camp fitness sessions for Baltimore City police officers and members of a local homeless shelter last year. He is also building a bowling lane and entertainment complex at Hunt Valley Towne Centre.

To honor his contributions, the city renamed a section of North Avenue as "Ray Lewis Way" six months ago.

"It's a blessing that he has the heart to do all of this for a community," Pamela Johnson said after being handed a turkey from Lewis.

But trying to predict when Lewis will retire is as futile as trying to run past him.

In August 2002, the Ravens signed Lewis to a seven-year, $50 million contract that many said would allow him to end his career with the team. Seven years later, Lewis was agreeing to another seven-year contract with $15.5 million guaranteed.

"He surpassed the draft position [26th overall in 1996]. He surpassed the longevity of being a great player," Newsome said. "When you put limitations on Ray, he surpasses them all. I'm beyond what Ray Lewis can and can't do. He just keeps going. I'm just amazed."

For Lewis, the future is now.

"I don't look past tomorrow," he said. "That's my message — not just to football players, but people in general. We rush to tomorrow so quickly, we forget about living in today. Right now it's about today, and right now we're 7-3 and sit in a heck of a position. And I've got a heck of a team on my shoulders."

Click here to order Ray Lewis’s proCane Rookie Card.


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(orlandosentinel.com)
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James Jones is playing solid basketball off the bench for the Miami Heat

30-year old James Jones is the long range bomber for the Miami Heat, at least until Mike Miller returns to action.  Jones has played in all 20 games (0 starts) for  the Heat so far this year and he is averaging 24.4 minutes, 8.1 points, 2.5 rebounds and 0.6 assists per game.  He is shooting 43.6% from three point range this year as he is 44 of 101 from that range meaning he’s jacking up an average of 5 3-pointers per night.  Look for the Heat to keep feeding him the ball as long as he keeps shooting like he is right now.


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(yardbarker.com)
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