http://www.kentucky.com/432/index.xml News, sports, and entertainment from Kentucky.com en-us Copyright 2008 Kentucky.com Football | NFL 60 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:41:52 EDT http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss McClatchy Interactive's Workbench webmaster@kentucky.com http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555368.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555368.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:59 EDT
Johnson, 28, was charged last month for a Feb. 24 incident at the Grand Emporium Saloon. A 26-year-old woman accused Johnson of pushing the side of her head with an open hand, telling her "don't touch me" as he made his way through the club.

Johnson is due to appear in Kansas City Municipal Court on Dec. 3 and faces a maximum jail term of six months and a $500 fine.

The Chiefs had no comment and Johnson was not available Tuesday, an off day for the players. Johnson's attorney, Kevin E.J. Regan, was in court Tuesday morning and not available for comment.

Capt. Rich Lockhart, spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the charges were filed more than six months after the incident because the investigation worked around more pressing assault cases and detectives had trouble locating a witness.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:24 EDT
The Washington Post reported Tuesday that the Redskins, who are likely to be without backup running back Ladell Betts for at least two weeks due to a sprained left knee, will audition for a job with the club.

Alexander, the NFL's MVP after the 2005 season in which he rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns, was released by the Seahawks in April. After leading Seattle to Super Bowl XL, Alexander struggled through two injury-plagued seasons, rushing for only 1,612 yards and 11 touchdowns combined in 2006 and 2007.

The Post story says that Betts suffered a mildly sprained left knee during Washington's 19-17 loss to the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, and will miss about two weeks with the injury. Betts, 29, has rushed for 156 yards on 38 carries this season while spelling Portis.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:52 EDT
According to the Dallas Morning News, starting running back Marion Barber will see an increased role in the offense. Jones injured himself in the third quarter and did not return, and the injury comes in the wake of the announcements that quarterback Tony Romo will be out for an estimated four weeks with a broken right pinky finger and punter Mat McBriar will be out six- to-eight weeks, and possibly more, with multiple fractures in his right foot.

Jones, who has been explosive out of the backfield and in the return game, has amassed 266 yards on the ground in six games, scoring three touchdowns. The Arkansas product also has one kickoff return touchdown for the 4-2 Cowboys.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:02 EDT
Eric Wright had the back-breaking interception for the Browns, returning the ball 94 yards for a score with 8:07 remaining in the final quarter.

Anderson completed 18-of-29 passes with his main target being Braylon Edwards, who caught five balls for a career-high 154 yards and a score. Jamal Lewis rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown.

The Browns (2-3), who were coming off their bye week after beating Cincinnati on September 28, racked up 454 yards of offense and didn't punt the entire game. They had four touchdowns for the season coming into the contest, but they equaled that total Monday by using a dominating offensive line.

"I felt against Cincinnati we started to move the ball," said Anderson. "The biggest thing is when they brought pressure, we saw it and I was able to get the ball out. Once they switched into coverage, we were able to run the ball.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:12 EDT
Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson, whose job was in serious jeopardy just a few weeks ago, threw one of his two touchdown passes to Edwards, cornerback Eric Wright intercepted Eli Manning and returned it 94 yards for a touchdown and the Browns (2-3) finally looked worthy of a prime-time TV slot.

Anderson finished 18-for-29 for 310 yards, Edwards caught five passes for a career-high 154 yards and Jamal Lewis scored on a 4-yard run for the Browns, who won a Monday night game for the first time since 1993 and handed the Giants (4-1) their first loss, leaving the Tennessee Titans as the NFL's only unbeaten team.

Manning was picked off three times and the Giants, so dominant through their first four games, were roughed up by a Cleveland team running out of time to make good on lofty preseason expectations.

In the closing minutes, Browns fans chanted "Over-rated" at the New Yorkers.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:32 EDT
Winslow, who was released from a hospital on Sunday, had been in the Cleveland Clinic since Thursday. The Miami-Florida product has recorded 19 receptions for 170 yards and a touchdown thus far for 2-3 Cleveland.

Steve Heiden started in Winslow's place.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:22 EDT
Seattle coach Mike Holmgren said in his press conference on Monday that Hasselbeck will miss Sunday night's game at Tampa Bay.

Hasselbeck saw a specialist in Los Angeles, who found that the disk problem in his back was causing the weakness in the quarterback's right knee. Hasselbeck hyperextended the knee in the Seahawks' loss to the New York Giants on October 5.

"I'm a little bit hesitant to characterize the pain," said Holmgren. "I think it's creating a weakness in his leg more than pain. I think that's what's preventing him from playing. As soon as we can get that strength back in there...that's tied in more with his back than his knee right now."

Charlie Frye got the starting nod this past week in a 27-17 loss to Green Bay, his first start since Week 1 of 2007 with the Cleveland Browns. Frye struggled, completing only 12-of-23 passes for 83 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:17 EDT
Winslow, whose NFL career has been slowed by injuries, was released Sunday from the Cleveland Clinic, where he spent three nights. Citing privacy laws, the Browns have not publicly discussed Winslow's illness. He was able to practice one day last week before he began to feel ill.

He was replaced in the starting lineup by Steve Heiden.

Winslow has 19 catches for 170 yards this season. Last season, he caught 82 passes for 1,106 yards.

The Browns also played their first Monday night game since 2003 without defensive end Shaun Smith. He broke his right hand on Sept. 21 at Baltimore but played with a cast two weeks ago at Cincinnati.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:52 EDT
Several teams are thought to be interested in the nine-time Pro Bowl tight end, including Buffalo, Philadelphia and the New York Giants.

But a Chiefs spokesman who asked not to be identified because talks were still ongoing told The Associated Press that no deal was pending.

The trade deadline is 4 p.m. EDT on Tuesday.

Gonzalez, who holds tight end records for receptions, touchdowns and yards receiving, asked the Chiefs to explore trade talks because he wants an opportunity to make a Super Bowl run before his career is done.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:37 EDT
NEW YORK GIANTS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS, 8:35 P.M. (ET)

Giants - K Lawrence Tynes, DB Sammy Knight, RB Danny Ware, CB Sam Madison, LB Jonathan Goff, T Adam Koets, DE Dave Tollefson, WR Sinorice Moss

Browns - 3rd QB Ken Dorsey, S Sean Jones, S Hamza Abdullah, T Kevin Shaffer, G Scott Young, TE Kellen Winslow, TE Martin Rucker, DE Shaun Smith]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:22 EDT
The New York Jets' suddenly stingy defense is ranked third in the NFL against the run and is allowing just 69 yards rushing per game, a dramatic improvement from the last few seasons.

"Wow, that's pretty good," the Jets' linebacker said Monday. "I know that it's been a concentrated effort and guys have been taking it personal and trying to get it done, so it's a good feeling. But the season is just getting going and we need to continue to get better."

The Jets held Cincinnati to 43 yards rushing on 21 carries in a 26-14 victory Sunday, and Arizona had just 42 yards on 15 carries in New York's 56-35 win two weeks ago. The last time the Jets held teams in consecutive games to under 50 yards rushing was in 1993.

"I think it's been a complete team effort," nose tackle Kris Jenkins said. "When you look at something like that, you can't just look at the defense. You also have to look at the offense because our offense has been doing a good job of controlling the ball, which has been giving us some much-needed rest. You have to give them credit for that."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:52 EDT
Thomas had played with the Vikings in each of the last four seasons, but tried to hook on with the San Francisco 49ers this year as a free agent. The Niners let him go at the end of August, but Minnesota worked Thomas out two weeks ago in case injuries to the defense piled up.

To make room on the roster, the Vikings placed offensive lineman Drew Radovich on injured reserve.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
In between, he scored his second touchdown of the season.

"It happened on my first catch, I got my head slammed," the Denver Broncos' slot receiver said. "And then the touchdown, I got head-butted a few times from some teammates. So, that didn't help."

But Stokley, who suffered a bad concussion in college and figures he's had three severe head injuries and seven minor concussions - like this one - in his decade in the NFL, didn't want to come out of the game.

"And then on that last catch, all it was was a guy's hand, he was just trying to make sure I was down and he hit the back of my head as I was coming up," Stokley said. "And I got up and I was just walking to the sideline and just kind of lost equilibrium and just went down to my knees."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:22 EDT
The suspension is set to begin immediately, and the 30-year-old will not be eligible to return until Monday, November 17 -- one day after the Bears' game against the Green Bay Packers.

Metcalf is an Ole Miss product and was the third-round pick of the Bears in 2002.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
He was shot 14 times and is now paralyzed from the waist down. He will continue his rehabilitation from an undisclosed location since his attacker is still at large.

Collier was shot early on September 2 outside an apartment complex in Jacksonville. The 26-year-old and his former Jaguars teammate Kenneth Pettway had been out at clubs and were following two women they had met back to an apartment complex to continue their evening together.

While the men waited in a Cadillac Escalade for the women to return from the apartment, someone walked up and fired several times at Collier, who was driving. Pettway was not injured.

No motive has been found for the attack, but investigators said that he appeared to have been targeted.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker sustained a minor MCL sprain in his knee in Jacksonville's 26-21 loss to the Steelers on October 5, and did not play in Sunday's 24-17 win over Denver. He developed the infection and was admitted to the hospital, where Del Rio said Walker was receiving a regimen of antibiotics as treatment.

The Jaguars have a bye this upcoming weekend, though Del Rio said Walker could miss a couple of weeks.

Walker has 12 receptions for 161 yards this season for Jacksonville.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:37 EDT
Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio confirmed Monday that Collier was released. He will continue his recovery at an undisclosed location because the person who shot him remains at large.

Collier had 14 gunshot wounds to his back, left groin, left leg and right buttock. A bullet severed his spinal cord, causing the paralysis, and his left leg had to be amputated because of blood clots.

The 26-year-old player was on a ventilator for two weeks and endured infections, bouts of pneumonia and renal failure.

"He's going to have a long, difficult rehab," Del Rio said. "We just want to be there, help support him. I just thank God he's alive. When I saw him the day after he'd been shot, I really did not think that there would be a day when he would get out of the hospital. He was in bad, bad shape.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
The 72-year-old Sunday Night Football analyst, who travels by bus because of a fear of flying, will take a break to spend time with his family instead of making three straight cross country trips, NBC said Monday.

Madden went from Jacksonville, Fla., to San Diego last week; he would have had to return to Florida for this Sunday's game at Tampa Bay. There's no Sunday Night Football game the following weekend, so Madden would have then headed home to the Bay Area.

NBC Sports chairman Dick Ebersol first approached Madden in the spring with the suggestion of skipping the trip.

Cris Collinsworth, normally a part of NBC's studio show, will fill in for Madden.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker was hospitalized Saturday because of an infection in the joint surrounding his right knee, a setback that could sideline him a few games.

Walker, who has 12 catches for 161 yards this season, sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee Oct. 5 against Pittsburgh and missed practice all last week.

Coach Jack Del Rio said Walker remained hospitalized Monday, receiving antibiotic treatments in hopes of reducing the infection. Del Rio said Walker did not have surgery or an open wound.

"There's nothing more substantial in terms of ligament damage or cartilage damage or any of those things," Del Rio said. "He just has an infection. They're treating that aggressively. Hopefully that will settle down, but until it does, he's not going to be available."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
He is eligible to return to the active roster on Nov. 17.

A seventh-year pro, Metcalf has appeared in all six games this season. He started five games at left guard last year, but struggled and was benched after playing with a broken hand.

"It's something that happens," coach Lovie Smith said. "He's not the first guy in the league to get suspended for this reason, and that's about as much time as we can spend on it. The league says he's suspended four games. That's what we'll go with. ... When you make a mistake like that, there are consequences that go with it."

Will Metcalf still be a Bear when the suspension ends?]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:47 EDT
Alexander went down with a neck injury in the final minutes of Sunday's 12-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The 24-year-old defensive back is in his second year in the NFL and has played in all 21 games since he was drafted out of Boise State in the second round (61st overall) of the 2007 NFL draft.

Norris is an eight-year veteran and was a fourth-round draft pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2001. In 92 career games, Norris has gained 25 yards on 10 rushes and has collected 23 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns. He was released on October 11 by the club.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:42 EDT
The quarterback situation apparently was frozen by a missing trainer, and the team's star wide receiver was trying to stop endless trade rumors.

Citing the absence of trainer Dean Kleinschmidt, Lions coach Rod Marinelli refused to comment on quarterback Jon Kitna's injured back or his spot in the starting lineup when healthy. Kitna did not travel to Minnesota for Sunday's 12-10 loss to the Vikings, the first game he had not started since joining the Lions before the 2006 season.

"We'll have information about the injury for you on Wednesday," Marinelli said. "I'm not going to discuss that until we have a chance to meet with the trainers, coaches and doctors. As for the starting lineup, I won't talk about that until Sunday."

Marinelli's reticence was unusual because Kitna's injury happened in the Oct. 5 loss to Chicago, and Kitna had tests run on his back in the middle of last week.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554518.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554518.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:17 EDT
Palmer stayed behind in New York after a 26-14 loss to the Jets on Sunday to get a second opinion from Dr. David Altchek, who works with the Mets. Palmer was hoping to hear that he can get back on the field quickly for the winless Bengals.

Instead, coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Palmer will miss a second straight game and his third overall because of the injury. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lead the AFC North at 4-1 and are coming off a bye.

"Some further study and scans were done, and what he recommended is a further conservative approach right now," Lewis said. "We'll talk with Carson and see what he feels."

Lewis didn't want to discuss the team's plans for Palmer until he had a chance to talk to the quarterback about the latest findings.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554504.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554504.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:07 EDT
The former Razorbacks quarterback must participate in NFL-sponsored substance-abuse counseling and random drug testing through the end of the football season, then return to Fayetteville to complete the intervention program, Judge Mary Ann Gunn said.

Jones could still face suspension by the NFL under its policies. The league said in a brief statement that Jones' case was being reviewed and it had no timetable for when its investigation would be complete.

Gunn, who presides over the Washington County Drug Court, said Jones could be bounced from the program if he fails a drug test or misses a counseling session. Jones said in court that he was "very committed" to completing the program and said he had passed random NFL-administered drug tests since his July 10 arrest.

The quarterback-turned-wide receiver stood with his parents in Gunn's courtroom, which was filled with drug offenders and treatment program graduates. He said he wanted to enter Gunn's program because "I want to make sure it doesn't happen again."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554486.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554486.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:27 EDT
Addai was hurt in the first quarter of Sunday's 31-3 rout of the Baltimore Ravens, gaining just three yards on two carries before exiting the contest.

"Joe's got a little hamstring tweak," Dungy said Monday. "Don't know how that's going be and how that will play out this week."

However, Hart's injury, which occurred in the second quarter, could force the team to explore further options at running back.

"It looks like it could be significant," Dungy remarked. "It looks like it's going to be awhile."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554365.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554365.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:37 EDT
Dungy doesn't believe the second operation - to fix an infected bursa sac - was the reason the team had a sluggish start this season.

"I don't think it set him back, it was part of the rehab process," Dungy said Monday. "The time frame we were initially looking at was when he came back."

Manning was not available in the locker room Monday, a day after the Colts routed Baltimore 31-3, in what was easily his best game of the season. Manning typically does interviews only on Wednesdays and after games.

But he told the CBS broadcast team about the second surgery at a pregame meeting, prompting announcers Jim Nantz and Phil Simms to address the issue during Sunday's game.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554329.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554329.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:37 EDT
There was indeed something wrong when Romo badly missed on his last two pass attempts to Terrell Owens in a 30-24 overtime loss at Arizona on Sunday, the Cowboys' second defeat in three games. Coach Wade Phillips said Monday that Romo broke his right pinkie on the first play of OT.

Brad Johnson, the 40-year-old backup whose last start was in 2006 for Minnesota, takes over Sunday when Dallas plays at St. Louis.

"Obviously, it's unfortunate for Tony to have to go through something like this. He'll recover quick; he has a great attitude about it," Johnson said. "At this time, it's really just important for the offense especially to just kind of catch on to my snap count and the way we manage the huddle. ... I'm excited about the opportunity, worked hard to get here."

Johnson, who came to Dallas last year, won a Super Bowl with Tampa Bay during the 2002 season and is the only Cowboys player with a championship ring.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554315.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554315.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:47 EDT
Romo was hurt on the first play of overtime in Sunday's 30-24 setback at Arizona, as he was stripped of the football by Chike Okeafor during a scramble. He stayed on the field for what turned out to be the final two offensive plays of the game -- both incomplete passes -- as the Cowboys lost on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown.

Brad Johnson is expected to take over as the starter for next week's game against St. Louis. The 40-year-old veteran, who last started an NFL game on December 17, 2006 with Minnesota, will also likely play the following two games against Tampa Bay and the New York Giants before the club's bye on November 9. Romo could possibly return for the November 16 contest at Washington.

Dallas' third quarterback is currently Brooks Bollinger.

"We still have two healthy quarterbacks," said Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips on Monday. "We have to get Brad ready."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554096.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554096.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:07 EDT
Nine seconds? Bor-ing!

Four other games were decided even later on a wild Sunday, including an NFL first for Arizona: a blocked punt for a touchdown in overtime.

"I can't remember one that was this crazy," Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner said, "especially toward the end."

He could have been talking about the whole day. Houston beat Miami when Matt Schaub ran for a TD with 3 seconds left, and Atlanta and St. Louis both won on field goals as time expired. It was the first time since 1970 that four teams got the winning points with fewer than 10 seconds left in regulation.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553960.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553960.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:07 EDT
Rivers hit on 18-of-27 pass attempts, and the Chargers' receivers stepped up in the absence of the team's top wideout, Chris Chambers, who was sidelined with an ankle injury. Vincent Jackson hauled in five passes for 134 yards and a score while Malcolm Floyd caught three passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. Antonio Gates grabbed Rivers' other scoring throw.

LaDainian Tomlinson, who continues to battle a nagging turf toe injury, gained 74 yards on 20 carries and caught three passes for 44 yards, but much of his contribution came with the game already decided.

San Diego (3-3) had stumbled in the early-going this season and was coming off a disappointing 17-10 loss to the Dolphins in Miami. However, with a Denver loss to Jacksonville earlier Sunday, the Bolts now sit only one game behind the Broncos for first place in the AFC West, with a road test against the AFC East-leading Bills next on the schedule.

"We owed these guys, we really did," Rivers said of the Chargers' recent woes against the Pats. "This doesn't replace or take away the three prior games -- what they meant to us -- it but it (the win) meant a lot."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553914.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553914.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:47 EDT
Rivers threw three touchdown passes and San Diego's defense stuffed quarterback Matt Cassel on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line to highlight a 30-10 win over the Patriots on Sunday night.

It was a measure of payback against a team that had beaten the Chargers three straight times, including in the playoffs the last two seasons.

Rivers drew raves for his toughness by playing the AFC championship game with a shredded ligament in his right knee, but he couldn't get the Chargers into the end zone that day and they lost 21-12 to the Patriots at Foxborough.

He had no trouble Sunday night, when he threw touchdown passes of 49 yards to Malcom Floyd, 4 yards to Vincent Jackson and 1 yard to Antonio Gates. It was the fourth time this season that Rivers threw three TD passes. Rivers completed 18 of 27 passes for 306 yards.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554035.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554035.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Two little-known players brought an abrupt end to a day of confusion, comebacks and clutch performances in the desert. Sean Morey blocked Mat McBriar's punt, and Monty Beisel scooped up the ball and scored from 3 yards to give Arizona a crazy 30-24 overtime victory over Dallas.

It was the first time in NFL history that a blocked punt for a touchdown ended a game in overtime.

Morey rushed untouched off the left side of the Dallas line to block the kick. Beisel, a backup linebacker, picked up the ball at about the 3 and bowled over the goal line.

McBriar was hurt on the play and had to be carted off the field in the din of a crowd that included the usual large portion of Dallas fans. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554033.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554033.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Andre Johnson hung his head, furious at himself for fumbling near the goal line. Coaches urged him to snap out of it. If Houston was going to win, they told him, he'd have to make a play.

Then Johnson had an acrobatic 23-yard reception on fourth-and-10 that kept the last drive alive, and Matt Schaub ran for a 3-yard touchdown with 3 seconds left to lead the Texans to their first win, a 29-28 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

The Dolphins (2-3) had knocked down consecutive passes in the end zone before Schaub ran for the score on fourth down. The 2-point conversion failed, but Houston (1-4) had enough points.

Johnson led the way with a franchise-record 178 yards receiving with one touchdown. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554032.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554032.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Giants at Browns

8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Line: Giants by 71/2

The unbeaten New York Giants will carry an 11-game road winning streak (12 counting the neutral site Super Bowl) into the matchup with Cleveland (1-3). ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554031.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554031.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will have his ailing elbow examined by a New York Mets team doctor. Palmer said after the Bengals lost 26-14 to the Jets on Sunday that he would remain in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek . Palmer was designated as the third quarterback for the game behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Palmer's brother, Jordan , the second game this season he has missed with the elbow injury.

"I'll play whenever they give me clearance," said Palmer, who injured his elbow against the Giants three weeks ago, missed a game against the Browns, then played against Dallas last week. He said he had been told that his injury is the kind common to baseball pitchers, one reason he decided to consult Altchek.

Hasselbeck headed for tests

Matt Hasselbeck 's knee injury needs more tests. The Seahawks' three-time Pro Bowl quarterback was inactive Sunday after being listed as questionable. Coach Mike Holmgren said his team will evaluate Hasselbeck's knee on Monday. The Seahawks have been calling it a hyperextended knee, and Holmgren has said there is no structural damage . at least none revealed in an MRI taken early last week. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/553381.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/553381.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 02:00 EDT
A four-game suspension has a longer-lasting impact beyond the games missed. The Cincinnati Bengals are reminded of that again.

Owner Mike Brown brought back Chris Henry . over the objections of Coach Marvin Lewis . even though the receiver was set to serve a four-game suspension for violating the NFL's conduct policy. With his suspension over, Henry was activated against Dallas last Sunday.

He got in for only a few plays and didn't have a pass thrown his way in a 31-22 loss. Henry was limited because he had missed so much time; he wasn't allowed to attend team meetings or practice during the suspension.

He expects an expanded role Sunday as the Bengals visit the New York Jets. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/553380.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/553380.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 02:00 EDT
When they talk, and they no doubt talk a lot, safety Renaldo Hill always tells his friend and teammate that someday he needs to write a book. Someday, Hill said, he wants everyone to be as inspired by safety Yeremiah Bell's tale as he has been.

"He has an inspirational story for a lot of people . a never-quit attitude," Hill said. "Never say die. That's Yeremiah."

He wants people to know about Bell's rise to NFL success, which started in a steel mill after graduating from Clark County High School in his native Winchester, Ky. Bell earned $8 an hour for two years, bending pieces of steel to be used in tunnels.

He wants them to hear about Bell's decision to leave the mill for Eastern Kentucky, where he made the football team as a walk-on, earned a scholarship and ended up as a sixth-round draft pick by the Dolphins in 2003. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/552315.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/552315.html Sat, 11 Oct 2008 01:55 EDT
Cincinnati Bengals Coach Marvin Lewis says quarterback Carson Palmer will not start Sunday's game against the New York Jets because of a sore right elbow but that he could play.

Backup Ryan Fitzpatrick will get his second start of the season for the Bengals. He started against the Browns two weeks ago, the week after Palmer injured his elbow in a loss to the Giants.

Lewis said he'll decide Sunday whether Palmer or his younger brother, Jordan, will back up Fitzpatrick.

Westbrook out this week ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/551128.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/551128.html Fri, 10 Oct 2008 01:49 EDT
Troubled cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones won't be disciplined by the Dallas Cowboys for a scuffle with his bodyguard that team owner Jerry Jones said resulted from joking banter that got out of hand and was quickly settled.

"They were literally kidding each other," Jerry Jones said Thursday. "They were jiving around ... and all of a sudden one of them starting saying some things, and here you go."

Dallas police were called to an upscale downtown hotel because of the disturbance late Tuesday night. No charges were filed.

While not planning any discipline for Adam Jones, Jerry Jones acknowledged that he was "very disappointed in that we're having to deal with this." ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/550079.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/550079.html Thu, 09 Oct 2008 01:49 EDT
CINCINNATI . Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will limit his throwing during practice this week to rest his sore elbow, hoping to be ready for the Jets on Sunday.

Palmer strained his right elbow in a loss to the Giants on Sept. 21, when his arm was hit while he threw a pass. He then sat out a 20-12 loss to Cleveland, when backup Ryan Fitzpatrick threw three interceptions and fumbled.

He didn't participate in passing drills the first two days of practice last week, giving the elbow time to heal. He threw on Friday and played in a 33-21 loss at Dallas that left the Bengals (0-5) at the bottom of the NFL. Palmer said his elbow came through that game without a problem.

"Probably go with the same approach as last week and hopefully be ready to play," Palmer said Wednesday. "Throw as little as possible and let it rest as much as possible, and make a decision later in the week and see what the doctors say." ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/548716.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/548716.html Wed, 08 Oct 2008 01:49 EDT
Sean Payton briefly allowed himself to smile faintly when asked about his blood pressure.

"My wife asked me that," the Saints' coach said Tuesday, a day after New Orleans' error-filled 30-27 loss to Minnesota. "I'm fine. You know, I'm disappointed."

Other coaches might have used stronger language if their teams had made the blunders that plagued Payton's squad on Monday night.

The Saints had one field goal blocked and returned 59-yards for a score, missed another field goal that would have given them a late lead, committed four turnovers, dropped several passes and committed 11 penalties for 102 yards. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:22 EDT
The New York Jets' suddenly stingy defense is ranked third in the NFL against the run and is allowing just 69 yards rushing per game, a dramatic improvement from the last few seasons.

"Wow, that's pretty good," the Jets' linebacker said Monday. "I know that it's been a concentrated effort and guys have been taking it personal and trying to get it done, so it's a good feeling. But the season is just getting going and we need to continue to get better."

The Jets held Cincinnati to 43 yards rushing on 21 carries in a 26-14 victory Sunday, and Arizona had just 42 yards on 15 carries in New York's 56-35 win two weeks ago. The last time the Jets held teams in consecutive games to under 50 yards rushing was in 1993.

"I think it's been a complete team effort," nose tackle Kris Jenkins said. "When you look at something like that, you can't just look at the defense. You also have to look at the offense because our offense has been doing a good job of controlling the ball, which has been giving us some much-needed rest. You have to give them credit for that."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:52 EDT
Thomas had played with the Vikings in each of the last four seasons, but tried to hook on with the San Francisco 49ers this year as a free agent. The Niners let him go at the end of August, but Minnesota worked Thomas out two weeks ago in case injuries to the defense piled up.

To make room on the roster, the Vikings placed offensive lineman Drew Radovich on injured reserve.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
In between, he scored his second touchdown of the season.

"It happened on my first catch, I got my head slammed," the Denver Broncos' slot receiver said. "And then the touchdown, I got head-butted a few times from some teammates. So, that didn't help."

But Stokley, who suffered a bad concussion in college and figures he's had three severe head injuries and seven minor concussions - like this one - in his decade in the NFL, didn't want to come out of the game.

"And then on that last catch, all it was was a guy's hand, he was just trying to make sure I was down and he hit the back of my head as I was coming up," Stokley said. "And I got up and I was just walking to the sideline and just kind of lost equilibrium and just went down to my knees."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:22 EDT
The suspension is set to begin immediately, and the 30-year-old will not be eligible to return until Monday, November 17 -- one day after the Bears' game against the Green Bay Packers.

Metcalf is an Ole Miss product and was the third-round pick of the Bears in 2002.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
He was shot 14 times and is now paralyzed from the waist down. He will continue his rehabilitation from an undisclosed location since his attacker is still at large.

Collier was shot early on September 2 outside an apartment complex in Jacksonville. The 26-year-old and his former Jaguars teammate Kenneth Pettway had been out at clubs and were following two women they had met back to an apartment complex to continue their evening together.

While the men waited in a Cadillac Escalade for the women to return from the apartment, someone walked up and fired several times at Collier, who was driving. Pettway was not injured.

No motive has been found for the attack, but investigators said that he appeared to have been targeted.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker sustained a minor MCL sprain in his knee in Jacksonville's 26-21 loss to the Steelers on October 5, and did not play in Sunday's 24-17 win over Denver. He developed the infection and was admitted to the hospital, where Del Rio said Walker was receiving a regimen of antibiotics as treatment.

The Jaguars have a bye this upcoming weekend, though Del Rio said Walker could miss a couple of weeks.

Walker has 12 receptions for 161 yards this season for Jacksonville.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:37 EDT
Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio confirmed Monday that Collier was released. He will continue his recovery at an undisclosed location because the person who shot him remains at large.

Collier had 14 gunshot wounds to his back, left groin, left leg and right buttock. A bullet severed his spinal cord, causing the paralysis, and his left leg had to be amputated because of blood clots.

The 26-year-old player was on a ventilator for two weeks and endured infections, bouts of pneumonia and renal failure.

"He's going to have a long, difficult rehab," Del Rio said. "We just want to be there, help support him. I just thank God he's alive. When I saw him the day after he'd been shot, I really did not think that there would be a day when he would get out of the hospital. He was in bad, bad shape.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
The 72-year-old Sunday Night Football analyst, who travels by bus because of a fear of flying, will take a break to spend time with his family instead of making three straight cross country trips, NBC said Monday.

Madden went from Jacksonville, Fla., to San Diego last week; he would have had to return to Florida for this Sunday's game at Tampa Bay. There's no Sunday Night Football game the following weekend, so Madden would have then headed home to the Bay Area.

NBC Sports chairman Dick Ebersol first approached Madden in the spring with the suggestion of skipping the trip.

Cris Collinsworth, normally a part of NBC's studio show, will fill in for Madden.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker was hospitalized Saturday because of an infection in the joint surrounding his right knee, a setback that could sideline him a few games.

Walker, who has 12 catches for 161 yards this season, sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee Oct. 5 against Pittsburgh and missed practice all last week.

Coach Jack Del Rio said Walker remained hospitalized Monday, receiving antibiotic treatments in hopes of reducing the infection. Del Rio said Walker did not have surgery or an open wound.

"There's nothing more substantial in terms of ligament damage or cartilage damage or any of those things," Del Rio said. "He just has an infection. They're treating that aggressively. Hopefully that will settle down, but until it does, he's not going to be available."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
He is eligible to return to the active roster on Nov. 17.

A seventh-year pro, Metcalf has appeared in all six games this season. He started five games at left guard last year, but struggled and was benched after playing with a broken hand.

"It's something that happens," coach Lovie Smith said. "He's not the first guy in the league to get suspended for this reason, and that's about as much time as we can spend on it. The league says he's suspended four games. That's what we'll go with. ... When you make a mistake like that, there are consequences that go with it."

Will Metcalf still be a Bear when the suspension ends?]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:47 EDT
Alexander went down with a neck injury in the final minutes of Sunday's 12-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The 24-year-old defensive back is in his second year in the NFL and has played in all 21 games since he was drafted out of Boise State in the second round (61st overall) of the 2007 NFL draft.

Norris is an eight-year veteran and was a fourth-round draft pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2001. In 92 career games, Norris has gained 25 yards on 10 rushes and has collected 23 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns. He was released on October 11 by the club.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:42 EDT
The quarterback situation apparently was frozen by a missing trainer, and the team's star wide receiver was trying to stop endless trade rumors.

Citing the absence of trainer Dean Kleinschmidt, Lions coach Rod Marinelli refused to comment on quarterback Jon Kitna's injured back or his spot in the starting lineup when healthy. Kitna did not travel to Minnesota for Sunday's 12-10 loss to the Vikings, the first game he had not started since joining the Lions before the 2006 season.

"We'll have information about the injury for you on Wednesday," Marinelli said. "I'm not going to discuss that until we have a chance to meet with the trainers, coaches and doctors. As for the starting lineup, I won't talk about that until Sunday."

Marinelli's reticence was unusual because Kitna's injury happened in the Oct. 5 loss to Chicago, and Kitna had tests run on his back in the middle of last week.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554518.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554518.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:17 EDT
Palmer stayed behind in New York after a 26-14 loss to the Jets on Sunday to get a second opinion from Dr. David Altchek, who works with the Mets. Palmer was hoping to hear that he can get back on the field quickly for the winless Bengals.

Instead, coach Marvin Lewis said Monday that Palmer will miss a second straight game and his third overall because of the injury. Ryan Fitzpatrick will start Sunday against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who lead the AFC North at 4-1 and are coming off a bye.

"Some further study and scans were done, and what he recommended is a further conservative approach right now," Lewis said. "We'll talk with Carson and see what he feels."

Lewis didn't want to discuss the team's plans for Palmer until he had a chance to talk to the quarterback about the latest findings.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554504.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554504.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:07 EDT
The former Razorbacks quarterback must participate in NFL-sponsored substance-abuse counseling and random drug testing through the end of the football season, then return to Fayetteville to complete the intervention program, Judge Mary Ann Gunn said.

Jones could still face suspension by the NFL under its policies. The league said in a brief statement that Jones' case was being reviewed and it had no timetable for when its investigation would be complete.

Gunn, who presides over the Washington County Drug Court, said Jones could be bounced from the program if he fails a drug test or misses a counseling session. Jones said in court that he was "very committed" to completing the program and said he had passed random NFL-administered drug tests since his July 10 arrest.

The quarterback-turned-wide receiver stood with his parents in Gunn's courtroom, which was filled with drug offenders and treatment program graduates. He said he wanted to enter Gunn's program because "I want to make sure it doesn't happen again."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554486.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554486.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 15:27 EDT
Addai was hurt in the first quarter of Sunday's 31-3 rout of the Baltimore Ravens, gaining just three yards on two carries before exiting the contest.

"Joe's got a little hamstring tweak," Dungy said Monday. "Don't know how that's going be and how that will play out this week."

However, Hart's injury, which occurred in the second quarter, could force the team to explore further options at running back.

"It looks like it could be significant," Dungy remarked. "It looks like it's going to be awhile."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554365.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554365.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:37 EDT
Dungy doesn't believe the second operation - to fix an infected bursa sac - was the reason the team had a sluggish start this season.

"I don't think it set him back, it was part of the rehab process," Dungy said Monday. "The time frame we were initially looking at was when he came back."

Manning was not available in the locker room Monday, a day after the Colts routed Baltimore 31-3, in what was easily his best game of the season. Manning typically does interviews only on Wednesdays and after games.

But he told the CBS broadcast team about the second surgery at a pregame meeting, prompting announcers Jim Nantz and Phil Simms to address the issue during Sunday's game.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554329.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554329.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:37 EDT
There was indeed something wrong when Romo badly missed on his last two pass attempts to Terrell Owens in a 30-24 overtime loss at Arizona on Sunday, the Cowboys' second defeat in three games. Coach Wade Phillips said Monday that Romo broke his right pinkie on the first play of OT.

Brad Johnson, the 40-year-old backup whose last start was in 2006 for Minnesota, takes over Sunday when Dallas plays at St. Louis.

"Obviously, it's unfortunate for Tony to have to go through something like this. He'll recover quick; he has a great attitude about it," Johnson said. "At this time, it's really just important for the offense especially to just kind of catch on to my snap count and the way we manage the huddle. ... I'm excited about the opportunity, worked hard to get here."

Johnson, who came to Dallas last year, won a Super Bowl with Tampa Bay during the 2002 season and is the only Cowboys player with a championship ring.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554315.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554315.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:47 EDT
Romo was hurt on the first play of overtime in Sunday's 30-24 setback at Arizona, as he was stripped of the football by Chike Okeafor during a scramble. He stayed on the field for what turned out to be the final two offensive plays of the game -- both incomplete passes -- as the Cowboys lost on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown.

Brad Johnson is expected to take over as the starter for next week's game against St. Louis. The 40-year-old veteran, who last started an NFL game on December 17, 2006 with Minnesota, will also likely play the following two games against Tampa Bay and the New York Giants before the club's bye on November 9. Romo could possibly return for the November 16 contest at Washington.

Dallas' third quarterback is currently Brooks Bollinger.

"We still have two healthy quarterbacks," said Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips on Monday. "We have to get Brad ready."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554096.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554096.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:07 EDT
Nine seconds? Bor-ing!

Four other games were decided even later on a wild Sunday, including an NFL first for Arizona: a blocked punt for a touchdown in overtime.

"I can't remember one that was this crazy," Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner said, "especially toward the end."

He could have been talking about the whole day. Houston beat Miami when Matt Schaub ran for a TD with 3 seconds left, and Atlanta and St. Louis both won on field goals as time expired. It was the first time since 1970 that four teams got the winning points with fewer than 10 seconds left in regulation.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553960.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553960.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:07 EDT
Rivers hit on 18-of-27 pass attempts, and the Chargers' receivers stepped up in the absence of the team's top wideout, Chris Chambers, who was sidelined with an ankle injury. Vincent Jackson hauled in five passes for 134 yards and a score while Malcolm Floyd caught three passes for 75 yards and a touchdown. Antonio Gates grabbed Rivers' other scoring throw.

LaDainian Tomlinson, who continues to battle a nagging turf toe injury, gained 74 yards on 20 carries and caught three passes for 44 yards, but much of his contribution came with the game already decided.

San Diego (3-3) had stumbled in the early-going this season and was coming off a disappointing 17-10 loss to the Dolphins in Miami. However, with a Denver loss to Jacksonville earlier Sunday, the Bolts now sit only one game behind the Broncos for first place in the AFC West, with a road test against the AFC East-leading Bills next on the schedule.

"We owed these guys, we really did," Rivers said of the Chargers' recent woes against the Pats. "This doesn't replace or take away the three prior games -- what they meant to us -- it but it (the win) meant a lot."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553914.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553914.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 06:47 EDT
Rivers threw three touchdown passes and San Diego's defense stuffed quarterback Matt Cassel on fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line to highlight a 30-10 win over the Patriots on Sunday night.

It was a measure of payback against a team that had beaten the Chargers three straight times, including in the playoffs the last two seasons.

Rivers drew raves for his toughness by playing the AFC championship game with a shredded ligament in his right knee, but he couldn't get the Chargers into the end zone that day and they lost 21-12 to the Patriots at Foxborough.

He had no trouble Sunday night, when he threw touchdown passes of 49 yards to Malcom Floyd, 4 yards to Vincent Jackson and 1 yard to Antonio Gates. It was the fourth time this season that Rivers threw three TD passes. Rivers completed 18 of 27 passes for 306 yards.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553895.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553895.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:37 EDT
Chambers was injured in last Sunday's 17-10 setback to the Miami Dolphins and was doubtful for the game after not participating in practice this week. The veteran wideout was tied for the league lead with five touchdown receptions entering Week 6.

Linebacker Jyles Tucker, who also was listed as doubtful but with a hamstring injury, was also inactive.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553880.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553880.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:57 EDT
After Nick Folk nailed a 52-yard field goal to send the game to overtime, Dallas won the toss and started from its own 22, but Tony Romo was sacked and fumbled on the first play. He got the ball back but two incompletions set up a punt from the 15. McBriar was swarmed by both Morey and Beisel for the easy score from three yards out. McBriar was hurt on the play and was carted off the field with a bruised right foot.

Kurt Warner was 22-of-30 for 236 yards and two touchdowns and an interception, while Steve Breaston hauled in eight catches for 102 yards and a score. Larry Fitzgerald also caught a TD, part of a five-catch, 79-yard performance for Arizona (4-2), which extended an impressive streak at home with its sixth straight win dating back to last season. The Cardinals have also defeated Dallas five of the last six times they visited Arizona.

"I can't remember when it was this crazy at the end," said Warner. "It was a great football game and we're excited to get out of here with a win."

Romo hit on 24-of-39 pass attempts for 321 yards and three scores, while Marion Barber racked up 173 all-purpose yards -- 45 rushing and 128 receiving -- including a 70-yard TD catch.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553778.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553778.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:37 EDT
Elam made five field goals for Atlanta (4-2), which matched last season's win total with its second straight victory. Rookie quarterback Matt Ryan was 22- for-30 for 301 yards and a touchdown. Roddy White caught nine balls for 112 yards and a touchdown in the victory.

The Falcons are now in a three-way tie for first place in the NFC South with Tampa Bay and Carolina.

Kyle Orton was 26-for-43 for 286 yards and a touchdown for Chicago (3-3), which was coming off two consecutive victories against Philadelphia and Detroit, respectively. Rookie Matt Forte scored once and carried the ball 20 times for 76 yards, and Devin Hester ended with six catches for 87 yards.

Chicago took a 20-19 lead with just 11 ticks left on the clock. However, the Falcons got the ball on their 44 with six seconds remaining and Ryan kept his composure. The rookie quarterback hit Michael Jenkins with a 26-yard pass on the left sideline at the Chicago 30 with one second to go, giving Elam a chance to redeem himself for an earlier miss.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553937.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553937.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:02 EDT
Coach Mike Holmgren said Monday his three-time Pro Bowl passer will not play Sunday night when the Seahawks (1-4) are at Tampa Bay (4-2). If backup Seneca Wallace can practice this week after missing last week with a calf injury, he will start. If not, No. 3 quarterback Charlie Frye will make his second consecutive start.

Hasselbeck sat out Sunday's 27-17 loss to Green Bay, his first missed game in two years, then flew to Los Angeles on Sunday night to see a specialist for a second opinion. The team was calling his injury a hyperextended knee, and the quarterback was calling it a bone bruise, after a hit from behind and in front early in Seattle's loss to the New York Giants on Oct. 5.

Monday, the doctor in California called it a bulging disk condition that is pressing on a nerve that runs down his leg to his right knee and, thus, causing weakness in the joint. Hasselbeck was given a series of core strength exercises for his back and knee.

"It's tied in with the disk situation. It appears as though he will not be able to play this week," Holmgren said. "They have put him on a series of rehab tests and so on. And as soon as he can pass those as far as strength in his leg, then we can get him back on the field.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553836.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553836.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:22 EDT
Palmer stayed in New York following the Bengals' 26-14 loss to the Jets on Sunday and visited with Mets team physician and elbow specialist Dr. David Altchek. At his press conference on Monday, Cincinnati head coach Marvin Lewis said Altchek recommended a "further conservative approach."

"We'll talk with Carson and see what he feels, but this would put him out for this game and put Ryan (Fitzpatrick) as our starting quarterback as we get ready for the Steelers," Lewis said.

The Bengals host Pittsburgh this upcoming Sunday.

Lewis, though, did not commit to ruling Palmer out and said no option was closed off.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553871.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553871.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 22:17 EDT
It was the first time in NFL history that a blocked punt for a touchdown ended a game in overtime.

Morey rushed untouched off the left side of the Dallas line to block the kick. Beisel, a backup linebacker, picked up the ball at about the 3 and bowled over the goal line.

McBriar was hurt on the play and had to be carted off the field in the din of a crowd that included the usual large portion of Dallas fans.

The stunning play by two of Arizona's most unheralded players brought a conclusion to a game that began with a 93-yard kickoff return by the Cardinals' J.J. Arrington followed by many moments of confusion, controversy and clutch performances.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553866.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553866.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 21:47 EDT
McNabb, who eclipsed Eagles legend Ron Jaworski for the franchise-record in passing yards and attempts, completed 23-of-36 throws for 280 yards and one interception for Philadelphia (3-3), which had lost its last two games by a combined 10 points. Correll Buckhalter, starting in the place of the injured Brian Westbrook (ribs), rushed for 93 yards and one score on 18 carries. He also was a threat out of the backfield, catching a game-high seven passes for 85 yards.

Rookie wide receiver DeSean Jackson accumulated 98 yards on six receptions for Philadelphia, which forced three turnovers in the final quarter. That included a 55-yard interception return by Juqua Parker for a TD in the final minute.

J.T. O'Sullivan connected on 17-of-30 passes for 199 yards and two interceptions for the 49ers (2-4), who have dropped three straight. Frank Gore gained 101 yards on the ground and scored a touchdown, while Vernon Davis led all Niners receivers with 75 yards on six grabs.

"You know, we've just got to finish," said Gore. "I'm not the coach and I don't make the calls. The Eagles made big plays. We made mistakes and we lost the game. Our coach did what he thought was the best thing for us to get a first down and move the ball. We made mistakes toward the end. They made big plays and they won the game."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553858.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553858.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 23:37 EDT
Rodgers completed 21-of-30 passes and ran for a score to lead the Packers (3-3), who ended a three-game losing streak. Ryan Grant rushed for 90 yards on 33 carries, and Greg Jennings hauled in five catches for 84 yards and a touchdown.

"I thought we played very well throughout the major situations, controlled the time possession," Packers head coach Mike McCarthy said. "The long drives we sustained were a big factor. I'm very pleased with the victory. I thought it was a smartly played victory by our football team."

The Packers outgained the Seahawks 313-177, as Green Bay limited Seattle to just 64 yards passing. The victors were also able to convert on 10-of-17 third down chances, while the Seahawks only went 4-for-11 in their opportunities.

"We did a nice job of third down conversions today," Rodgers said. "It enabled us to keep the drives alive. It's never fun losing, and it's a very big win for our team. I'm very proud of the way we finished the game."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553857.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/553857.html Sun, 12 Oct 2008 22:17 EDT
David Garrard finished 25-of-34 for 276 yards and one touchdown for the Jaguars (3-3). Jones-Drew registered 22 carries and also caught seven balls for 69 yards.

Jacksonville has won three of its last four games and has a bye next week.

Jay Cutler was 21-of-37 for 192 yards, with two touchdowns and one interception for the Broncos (4-2). Denver, which has dropped two of its last three contest, got a solid game from running back Michael Pittman, who gained 109 yards on 20 carries.

"We're 4-2. There's no need for everyone to panic or anything," said Cutler. "We still have New England next week and a bye after that. So we can rest a little bit. We just have to go back to the film and look at it, be critical and move on."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/555071.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/555071.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:51 EDT
CLEVELAND . The Cleveland Browns might have flipped around their season.

Led by tumbling wide receiver Braylon Edwards, who announced his team's return to Monday night after five years by sticking an Olympic-caliber cartwheel and back flip during pre-game introductions, Cleveland ended the New York Giants' 11-game road winning streak with a 35-14 win over the defending Super Bowl champions.

Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson, whose job was in serious jeopardy just a few weeks ago, threw one of his two touchdown passes to Edwards, cornerback Eric Wright intercepted Eli Manning and returned it 94 yards for a touchdown, and the Browns (2-3) finally looked worthy of a prime-time TV slot.

Anderson finished 18-for-29 for 310 yards, Edwards caught five passes for a career-high 154 yards, and Jamal Lewis scored on a 4-yard run for the Browns, who won a Monday night game for the first time since 1993 and handed the Giants (4-1) their first loss. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554035.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554035.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Two little-known players brought an abrupt end to a day of confusion, comebacks and clutch performances in the desert. Sean Morey blocked Mat McBriar's punt, and Monty Beisel scooped up the ball and scored from 3 yards to give Arizona a crazy 30-24 overtime victory over Dallas.

It was the first time in NFL history that a blocked punt for a touchdown ended a game in overtime.

Morey rushed untouched off the left side of the Dallas line to block the kick. Beisel, a backup linebacker, picked up the ball at about the 3 and bowled over the goal line.

McBriar was hurt on the play and had to be carted off the field in the din of a crowd that included the usual large portion of Dallas fans. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554033.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554033.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Andre Johnson hung his head, furious at himself for fumbling near the goal line. Coaches urged him to snap out of it. If Houston was going to win, they told him, he'd have to make a play.

Then Johnson had an acrobatic 23-yard reception on fourth-and-10 that kept the last drive alive, and Matt Schaub ran for a 3-yard touchdown with 3 seconds left to lead the Texans to their first win, a 29-28 victory over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.

The Dolphins (2-3) had knocked down consecutive passes in the end zone before Schaub ran for the score on fourth down. The 2-point conversion failed, but Houston (1-4) had enough points.

Johnson led the way with a franchise-record 178 yards receiving with one touchdown. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554032.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554032.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Giants at Browns

8:30 p.m. (ESPN)

Line: Giants by 71/2

The unbeaten New York Giants will carry an 11-game road winning streak (12 counting the neutral site Super Bowl) into the matchup with Cleveland (1-3). ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554031.html http://www.kentucky.com/432/story/554031.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 01:50 EDT
Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer will have his ailing elbow examined by a New York Mets team doctor. Palmer said after the Bengals lost 26-14 to the Jets on Sunday that he would remain in New York to be examined by Dr. David Altchek . Palmer was designated as the third quarterback for the game behind Ryan Fitzpatrick and Palmer's brother, Jordan , the second game this season he has missed with the elbow injury.

"I'll play whenever they give me clearance," said Palmer, who injured his elbow against the Giants three weeks ago, missed a game against the Browns, then played against Dallas last week. He said he had been told that his injury is the kind common to baseball pitchers, one reason he decided to consult Altchek.

Hasselbeck headed for tests

Matt Hasselbeck 's knee injury needs more tests. The Seahawks' three-time Pro Bowl quarterback was inactive Sunday after being listed as questionable. Coach Mike Holmgren said his team will evaluate Hasselbeck's knee on Monday. The Seahawks have been calling it a hyperextended knee, and Holmgren has said there is no structural damage . at least none revealed in an MRI taken early last week. ]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:24 EDT
The Washington Post reported Tuesday that the Redskins, who are likely to be without backup running back Ladell Betts for at least two weeks due to a sprained left knee, will audition for a job with the club.

Alexander, the NFL's MVP after the 2005 season in which he rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns, was released by the Seahawks in April. After leading Seattle to Super Bowl XL, Alexander struggled through two injury-plagued seasons, rushing for only 1,612 yards and 11 touchdowns combined in 2006 and 2007.

The Post story says that Betts suffered a mildly sprained left knee during Washington's 19-17 loss to the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, and will miss about two weeks with the injury. Betts, 29, has rushed for 156 yards on 38 carries this season while spelling Portis.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:52 EDT
According to the Dallas Morning News, starting running back Marion Barber will see an increased role in the offense. Jones injured himself in the third quarter and did not return, and the injury comes in the wake of the announcements that quarterback Tony Romo will be out for an estimated four weeks with a broken right pinky finger and punter Mat McBriar will be out six- to-eight weeks, and possibly more, with multiple fractures in his right foot.

Jones, who has been explosive out of the backfield and in the return game, has amassed 266 yards on the ground in six games, scoring three touchdowns. The Arkansas product also has one kickoff return touchdown for the 4-2 Cowboys.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:02 EDT
Eric Wright had the back-breaking interception for the Browns, returning the ball 94 yards for a score with 8:07 remaining in the final quarter.

Anderson completed 18-of-29 passes with his main target being Braylon Edwards, who caught five balls for a career-high 154 yards and a score. Jamal Lewis rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown.

The Browns (2-3), who were coming off their bye week after beating Cincinnati on September 28, racked up 454 yards of offense and didn't punt the entire game. They had four touchdowns for the season coming into the contest, but they equaled that total Monday by using a dominating offensive line.

"I felt against Cincinnati we started to move the ball," said Anderson. "The biggest thing is when they brought pressure, we saw it and I was able to get the ball out. Once they switched into coverage, we were able to run the ball.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:12 EDT
Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson, whose job was in serious jeopardy just a few weeks ago, threw one of his two touchdown passes to Edwards, cornerback Eric Wright intercepted Eli Manning and returned it 94 yards for a touchdown and the Browns (2-3) finally looked worthy of a prime-time TV slot.

Anderson finished 18-for-29 for 310 yards, Edwards caught five passes for a career-high 154 yards and Jamal Lewis scored on a 4-yard run for the Browns, who won a Monday night game for the first time since 1993 and handed the Giants (4-1) their first loss, leaving the Tennessee Titans as the NFL's only unbeaten team.

Manning was picked off three times and the Giants, so dominant through their first four games, were roughed up by a Cleveland team running out of time to make good on lofty preseason expectations.

In the closing minutes, Browns fans chanted "Over-rated" at the New Yorkers.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:32 EDT
Winslow, who was released from a hospital on Sunday, had been in the Cleveland Clinic since Thursday. The Miami-Florida product has recorded 19 receptions for 170 yards and a touchdown thus far for 2-3 Cleveland.

Steve Heiden started in Winslow's place.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:22 EDT
Seattle coach Mike Holmgren said in his press conference on Monday that Hasselbeck will miss Sunday night's game at Tampa Bay.

Hasselbeck saw a specialist in Los Angeles, who found that the disk problem in his back was causing the weakness in the quarterback's right knee. Hasselbeck hyperextended the knee in the Seahawks' loss to the New York Giants on October 5.

"I'm a little bit hesitant to characterize the pain," said Holmgren. "I think it's creating a weakness in his leg more than pain. I think that's what's preventing him from playing. As soon as we can get that strength back in there...that's tied in more with his back than his knee right now."

Charlie Frye got the starting nod this past week in a 27-17 loss to Green Bay, his first start since Week 1 of 2007 with the Cleveland Browns. Frye struggled, completing only 12-of-23 passes for 83 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:17 EDT
Winslow, whose NFL career has been slowed by injuries, was released Sunday from the Cleveland Clinic, where he spent three nights. Citing privacy laws, the Browns have not publicly discussed Winslow's illness. He was able to practice one day last week before he began to feel ill.

He was replaced in the starting lineup by Steve Heiden.

Winslow has 19 catches for 170 yards this season. Last season, he caught 82 passes for 1,106 yards.

The Browns also played their first Monday night game since 2003 without defensive end Shaun Smith. He broke his right hand on Sept. 21 at Baltimore but played with a cast two weeks ago at Cincinnati.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:52 EDT
Several teams are thought to be interested in the nine-time Pro Bowl tight end, including Buffalo, Philadelphia and the New York Giants.

But a Chiefs spokesman who asked not to be identified because talks were still ongoing told The Associated Press that no deal was pending.

The trade deadline is 4 p.m. EDT on Tuesday.

Gonzalez, who holds tight end records for receptions, touchdowns and yards receiving, asked the Chiefs to explore trade talks because he wants an opportunity to make a Super Bowl run before his career is done.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:37 EDT
NEW YORK GIANTS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS, 8:35 P.M. (ET)

Giants - K Lawrence Tynes, DB Sammy Knight, RB Danny Ware, CB Sam Madison, LB Jonathan Goff, T Adam Koets, DE Dave Tollefson, WR Sinorice Moss

Browns - 3rd QB Ken Dorsey, S Sean Jones, S Hamza Abdullah, T Kevin Shaffer, G Scott Young, TE Kellen Winslow, TE Martin Rucker, DE Shaun Smith]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555368.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555368.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:59 EDT
Johnson, 28, was charged last month for a Feb. 24 incident at the Grand Emporium Saloon. A 26-year-old woman accused Johnson of pushing the side of her head with an open hand, telling her "don't touch me" as he made his way through the club.

Johnson is due to appear in Kansas City Municipal Court on Dec. 3 and faces a maximum jail term of six months and a $500 fine.

The Chiefs had no comment and Johnson was not available Tuesday, an off day for the players. Johnson's attorney, Kevin E.J. Regan, was in court Tuesday morning and not available for comment.

Capt. Rich Lockhart, spokesman for the Kansas City Police Department, said the charges were filed more than six months after the incident because the investigation worked around more pressing assault cases and detectives had trouble locating a witness.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555349.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:24 EDT
The Washington Post reported Tuesday that the Redskins, who are likely to be without backup running back Ladell Betts for at least two weeks due to a sprained left knee, will audition for a job with the club.

Alexander, the NFL's MVP after the 2005 season in which he rushed for 1,880 yards and 27 touchdowns, was released by the Seahawks in April. After leading Seattle to Super Bowl XL, Alexander struggled through two injury-plagued seasons, rushing for only 1,612 yards and 11 touchdowns combined in 2006 and 2007.

The Post story says that Betts suffered a mildly sprained left knee during Washington's 19-17 loss to the St. Louis Rams on Sunday, and will miss about two weeks with the injury. Betts, 29, has rushed for 156 yards on 38 carries this season while spelling Portis.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/555026.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:52 EDT
According to the Dallas Morning News, starting running back Marion Barber will see an increased role in the offense. Jones injured himself in the third quarter and did not return, and the injury comes in the wake of the announcements that quarterback Tony Romo will be out for an estimated four weeks with a broken right pinky finger and punter Mat McBriar will be out six- to-eight weeks, and possibly more, with multiple fractures in his right foot.

Jones, who has been explosive out of the backfield and in the return game, has amassed 266 yards on the ground in six games, scoring three touchdowns. The Arkansas product also has one kickoff return touchdown for the 4-2 Cowboys.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554923.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:02 EDT
Eric Wright had the back-breaking interception for the Browns, returning the ball 94 yards for a score with 8:07 remaining in the final quarter.

Anderson completed 18-of-29 passes with his main target being Braylon Edwards, who caught five balls for a career-high 154 yards and a score. Jamal Lewis rushed for 88 yards and a touchdown.

The Browns (2-3), who were coming off their bye week after beating Cincinnati on September 28, racked up 454 yards of offense and didn't punt the entire game. They had four touchdowns for the season coming into the contest, but they equaled that total Monday by using a dominating offensive line.

"I felt against Cincinnati we started to move the ball," said Anderson. "The biggest thing is when they brought pressure, we saw it and I was able to get the ball out. Once they switched into coverage, we were able to run the ball.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554846.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:12 EDT
Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson, whose job was in serious jeopardy just a few weeks ago, threw one of his two touchdown passes to Edwards, cornerback Eric Wright intercepted Eli Manning and returned it 94 yards for a touchdown and the Browns (2-3) finally looked worthy of a prime-time TV slot.

Anderson finished 18-for-29 for 310 yards, Edwards caught five passes for a career-high 154 yards and Jamal Lewis scored on a 4-yard run for the Browns, who won a Monday night game for the first time since 1993 and handed the Giants (4-1) their first loss, leaving the Tennessee Titans as the NFL's only unbeaten team.

Manning was picked off three times and the Giants, so dominant through their first four games, were roughed up by a Cleveland team running out of time to make good on lofty preseason expectations.

In the closing minutes, Browns fans chanted "Over-rated" at the New Yorkers.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554067.html Tue, 14 Oct 2008 01:32 EDT
Winslow, who was released from a hospital on Sunday, had been in the Cleveland Clinic since Thursday. The Miami-Florida product has recorded 19 receptions for 170 yards and a touchdown thus far for 2-3 Cleveland.

Steve Heiden started in Winslow's place.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554797.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:22 EDT
Seattle coach Mike Holmgren said in his press conference on Monday that Hasselbeck will miss Sunday night's game at Tampa Bay.

Hasselbeck saw a specialist in Los Angeles, who found that the disk problem in his back was causing the weakness in the quarterback's right knee. Hasselbeck hyperextended the knee in the Seahawks' loss to the New York Giants on October 5.

"I'm a little bit hesitant to characterize the pain," said Holmgren. "I think it's creating a weakness in his leg more than pain. I think that's what's preventing him from playing. As soon as we can get that strength back in there...that's tied in more with his back than his knee right now."

Charlie Frye got the starting nod this past week in a 27-17 loss to Green Bay, his first start since Week 1 of 2007 with the Cleveland Browns. Frye struggled, completing only 12-of-23 passes for 83 yards, with two touchdowns and two interceptions.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554788.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 20:17 EDT
Winslow, whose NFL career has been slowed by injuries, was released Sunday from the Cleveland Clinic, where he spent three nights. Citing privacy laws, the Browns have not publicly discussed Winslow's illness. He was able to practice one day last week before he began to feel ill.

He was replaced in the starting lineup by Steve Heiden.

Winslow has 19 catches for 170 yards this season. Last season, he caught 82 passes for 1,106 yards.

The Browns also played their first Monday night game since 2003 without defensive end Shaun Smith. He broke his right hand on Sept. 21 at Baltimore but played with a cast two weeks ago at Cincinnati.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554775.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:52 EDT
Several teams are thought to be interested in the nine-time Pro Bowl tight end, including Buffalo, Philadelphia and the New York Giants.

But a Chiefs spokesman who asked not to be identified because talks were still ongoing told The Associated Press that no deal was pending.

The trade deadline is 4 p.m. EDT on Tuesday.

Gonzalez, who holds tight end records for receptions, touchdowns and yards receiving, asked the Chiefs to explore trade talks because he wants an opportunity to make a Super Bowl run before his career is done.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554770.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:37 EDT
NEW YORK GIANTS AT CLEVELAND BROWNS, 8:35 P.M. (ET)

Giants - K Lawrence Tynes, DB Sammy Knight, RB Danny Ware, CB Sam Madison, LB Jonathan Goff, T Adam Koets, DE Dave Tollefson, WR Sinorice Moss

Browns - 3rd QB Ken Dorsey, S Sean Jones, S Hamza Abdullah, T Kevin Shaffer, G Scott Young, TE Kellen Winslow, TE Martin Rucker, DE Shaun Smith]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554765.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 19:22 EDT
The New York Jets' suddenly stingy defense is ranked third in the NFL against the run and is allowing just 69 yards rushing per game, a dramatic improvement from the last few seasons.

"Wow, that's pretty good," the Jets' linebacker said Monday. "I know that it's been a concentrated effort and guys have been taking it personal and trying to get it done, so it's a good feeling. But the season is just getting going and we need to continue to get better."

The Jets held Cincinnati to 43 yards rushing on 21 carries in a 26-14 victory Sunday, and Arizona had just 42 yards on 15 carries in New York's 56-35 win two weeks ago. The last time the Jets held teams in consecutive games to under 50 yards rushing was in 1993.

"I think it's been a complete team effort," nose tackle Kris Jenkins said. "When you look at something like that, you can't just look at the defense. You also have to look at the offense because our offense has been doing a good job of controlling the ball, which has been giving us some much-needed rest. You have to give them credit for that."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554751.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:52 EDT
Thomas had played with the Vikings in each of the last four seasons, but tried to hook on with the San Francisco 49ers this year as a free agent. The Niners let him go at the end of August, but Minnesota worked Thomas out two weeks ago in case injuries to the defense piled up.

To make room on the roster, the Vikings placed offensive lineman Drew Radovich on injured reserve.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554735.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
In between, he scored his second touchdown of the season.

"It happened on my first catch, I got my head slammed," the Denver Broncos' slot receiver said. "And then the touchdown, I got head-butted a few times from some teammates. So, that didn't help."

But Stokley, who suffered a bad concussion in college and figures he's had three severe head injuries and seven minor concussions - like this one - in his decade in the NFL, didn't want to come out of the game.

"And then on that last catch, all it was was a guy's hand, he was just trying to make sure I was down and he hit the back of my head as I was coming up," Stokley said. "And I got up and I was just walking to the sideline and just kind of lost equilibrium and just went down to my knees."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554724.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:22 EDT
The suspension is set to begin immediately, and the 30-year-old will not be eligible to return until Monday, November 17 -- one day after the Bears' game against the Green Bay Packers.

Metcalf is an Ole Miss product and was the third-round pick of the Bears in 2002.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554723.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:32 EDT
He was shot 14 times and is now paralyzed from the waist down. He will continue his rehabilitation from an undisclosed location since his attacker is still at large.

Collier was shot early on September 2 outside an apartment complex in Jacksonville. The 26-year-old and his former Jaguars teammate Kenneth Pettway had been out at clubs and were following two women they had met back to an apartment complex to continue their evening together.

While the men waited in a Cadillac Escalade for the women to return from the apartment, someone walked up and fired several times at Collier, who was driving. Pettway was not injured.

No motive has been found for the attack, but investigators said that he appeared to have been targeted.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554694.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker sustained a minor MCL sprain in his knee in Jacksonville's 26-21 loss to the Steelers on October 5, and did not play in Sunday's 24-17 win over Denver. He developed the infection and was admitted to the hospital, where Del Rio said Walker was receiving a regimen of antibiotics as treatment.

The Jaguars have a bye this upcoming weekend, though Del Rio said Walker could miss a couple of weeks.

Walker has 12 receptions for 161 yards this season for Jacksonville.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554676.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 18:37 EDT
Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio confirmed Monday that Collier was released. He will continue his recovery at an undisclosed location because the person who shot him remains at large.

Collier had 14 gunshot wounds to his back, left groin, left leg and right buttock. A bullet severed his spinal cord, causing the paralysis, and his left leg had to be amputated because of blood clots.

The 26-year-old player was on a ventilator for two weeks and endured infections, bouts of pneumonia and renal failure.

"He's going to have a long, difficult rehab," Del Rio said. "We just want to be there, help support him. I just thank God he's alive. When I saw him the day after he'd been shot, I really did not think that there would be a day when he would get out of the hospital. He was in bad, bad shape.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554655.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
The 72-year-old Sunday Night Football analyst, who travels by bus because of a fear of flying, will take a break to spend time with his family instead of making three straight cross country trips, NBC said Monday.

Madden went from Jacksonville, Fla., to San Diego last week; he would have had to return to Florida for this Sunday's game at Tampa Bay. There's no Sunday Night Football game the following weekend, so Madden would have then headed home to the Bay Area.

NBC Sports chairman Dick Ebersol first approached Madden in the spring with the suggestion of skipping the trip.

Cris Collinsworth, normally a part of NBC's studio show, will fill in for Madden.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554631.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:57 EDT
Walker was hospitalized Saturday because of an infection in the joint surrounding his right knee, a setback that could sideline him a few games.

Walker, who has 12 catches for 161 yards this season, sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee Oct. 5 against Pittsburgh and missed practice all last week.

Coach Jack Del Rio said Walker remained hospitalized Monday, receiving antibiotic treatments in hopes of reducing the infection. Del Rio said Walker did not have surgery or an open wound.

"There's nothing more substantial in terms of ligament damage or cartilage damage or any of those things," Del Rio said. "He just has an infection. They're treating that aggressively. Hopefully that will settle down, but until it does, he's not going to be available."]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554624.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 17:22 EDT
He is eligible to return to the active roster on Nov. 17.

A seventh-year pro, Metcalf has appeared in all six games this season. He started five games at left guard last year, but struggled and was benched after playing with a broken hand.

"It's something that happens," coach Lovie Smith said. "He's not the first guy in the league to get suspended for this reason, and that's about as much time as we can spend on it. The league says he's suspended four games. That's what we'll go with. ... When you make a mistake like that, there are consequences that go with it."

Will Metcalf still be a Bear when the suspension ends?]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554614.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:47 EDT
Alexander went down with a neck injury in the final minutes of Sunday's 12-10 loss to the Minnesota Vikings. The 24-year-old defensive back is in his second year in the NFL and has played in all 21 games since he was drafted out of Boise State in the second round (61st overall) of the 2007 NFL draft.

Norris is an eight-year veteran and was a fourth-round draft pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2001. In 92 career games, Norris has gained 25 yards on 10 rushes and has collected 23 receptions for 131 yards and three touchdowns. He was released on October 11 by the club.]]> http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html http://www.kentucky.com/561/story/554611.html Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:42 EDT
The quarterback situation apparently was frozen by a missing trainer, and the team's star wide receiver was trying to stop endless trade rumors.

Citing the absence of trainer Dean Kleinschmidt, Lions coach Rod Marinelli refused to comment on quarterback Jon Kitna's injured back or his spot in the starting lineup when healthy