TGS NFL WEEK 2 REVIEW: HEY, IT'S NOT 2006 ANYMORE!
goldsheet.com
It's not like we haven't seen this before.
Really, it's like clockwork, and the reason forecasts for upcoming football seasons should often be taken with a grain of salt.
Quite simply, it's not the 2006 NFL season anymore. Just like the '06 campaign wasn't 2005. And the '05 season wasn't 2004. Like always, teams that were able to sneak up and surprise people the previous season are wearing targets the next year. Dynamics can change quickly in the NFL.
Yet, come preseason time, the majority of pundits who predict the upcoming gridiron campaign invariably base almost all of their projections on the previous year's results. We'd bet that well over half of this year's NFL prognostications had the same teams making the playoffs as last season. Lots of support for sides like the Jets and Saints, little support for the Texans, Redskins, or Packers. Although we suppose a playoff repeat of 2006 still could happen, it's not very likely.
The list of early reminders that the nascent 2007 campaign isn't going to be a redux of 2006 are plentiful, but it's nonetheless worthwhile to review. In descending "shock value" from a year ago, here are the biggest changes to note after two weeks of NFL action.
1) New Orleans Saints...The Saints were a du jour selection by many to get to the Super Bowl after last season's surprising 10-6 mark, and appearance in the NFC title game. But there were plenty of cracks evident in the foundation all of last season, many of those on the defensive side, which were exposed in the lopsided 39-14 conference title game loss at Chicago. New Orleans was able to camouflage its stop unit with a high-powered attack piloted by Drew Brees a year ago, but that hasn't worked thus far in '07. The Saints have been humiliated in their first two games, losses at Indy and Tampa Bay by a combined 72-24 count. Opposing defenses have slowed Brees and a receiving corps that might miss the presence of vet wideout Joe Horn, and some soft play up front has thus far limited the damage Reggie Bush and Deuce McAllister can cause. Meanwhile, the "D" still lacks playmakers, and its inability to force turnovers is becoming a burden for the team. After everything seemed to go right for Sean Payton in his first season as head coach, everything seems to be going just as wrong in '07, and a loss vs. Tennessee this Monday would really sound the alarms at the Superdome.
2) Houston Texans...It was easy to overlook the Texans because never in their history had they given a hint that they were ready for something of a breakthrough. Heck, the franchise has yet to record a winning season since its birth in 2002. But things might be changing in 2007 in HC Gary Kubiak's second year in charge. The offensive line, long an albatross, appears serviceable. New QB Matt Schaub, imported from Atlanta in the offseason, is confirming scouting reports that he was ready to take over an NFL offense. RB Ahman Green, brought in from Green Bay, has added further class to the backfield. And with holdover WR Andre Johnson one of the NFL's best-kept secrets, the Texans are now ready to deal on offense for the first time in franchise history. Coupled with significant improvement from a defense that began to assimilate d.c. Richard Smith's 4-3 as last season progressed, and has seen last year's top draft choice DE Mario Williams (left) finally show signs of becoming a dominator, all indicators are up at Reliant Stadium. The Texans are 2-0 for the first time in franchise history, have won both of their games by double-digit margins, and scored a franchise-high 34 points in last week's win over Carolina.
3) New York Jets...Things definitely aren't the same in Jets camp as a year ago. Remember, New York was able to keep QB Chad Pennington, whose durability has always been a question, relatively healthy and in the lineup throughout 2006. Already in 2007, Pennington has been knocked out of action (ankle sprain), and it remains to be seen if his surgically-repaired shoulder can withstand another season when he gets back into the lineup. Moreover, the Jets might rue not re-signing veteran LG Pete Kendall, traded to the Redskins last month after a contract dispute. Minus the leader of last season's forward wall, the Jets have been suspect offensively the first two weeks. The offense hoped the acquisition of RB Thomas Jones from Chicago would help the infantry, but the attack still lacks a legit big-play dimension. In addition, the secondary is looking vulnerable, with rookie DBs Darrelle Revis & David Barrett now seeing plenty of time. The Jets might be the AFC version of the Saints, as, like counterpart Sean Payton in New Orleans, things have suddenly gone pear-shaped for the Jets' own second-year coach, Eric Mangini.
4) Washington Redskins...They're not doing it with style points, that's for sure. But if the Skins' defense really is upgraded from its disappointing '06 self, and young QB Jason Campbell begins to mature into a competent leader, perhaps Joe Gibbs' 2-0 start isn't a mirage. Indeed, Campbell could prove one of the real x-factors in the NFC, because last year the Skins could not properly utilize what appeared to be a dangerous group of deep-threat wideouts in Santana Moss, Antwaan Randle El, and Brandon Lloyd. But early indications are that Campbell can get the ball downfield a lot better than Mark Brunell the past few years, and suddenly the Skins are stretching the field, which is opening up more room to run for now-healthy RB Clinton Portis (shown at right in Monday night's win at Philly). With the Giants and Eagles misfiring (and each already 2 games behind the Skins), perhaps Washington can stick in the NFC East race a lot longer than most anticipated.
5) Green Bay Packers...Of all the early 2-0 teams, the Pack might be the most surprising. Most pegged Green Bay, which opened the season as underdogs vs. both the Eagles and Giants, to break 0-2 from the gate, but Brett Favre and Co. have had other ideas. Favre, in particular, is playing out of memory, and tossed 3 TD passes in last weekend's 35-13 romp past the slumping Giants. It will still be important to limit Favre from forcing the ball downfield, which means the Vernand Morency/Brandon Jackson infantry must continue to establish a presence, but for now, things are working well for 2nd-year HC Mike McCarthy. An underrated defense, especially an active LB crew led by MLB Nick Barnett, appears gnarly enough to keep the Pack in the hunt most weekends, and special teams play appears much improved as well. But it's still the popular Favre's show, and his ability to lift his teammates is an intangible that could prove the difference in more than a few games this fall.
6) Philadelphia Eagles...There were some worrying smoke signals during the offseason in Philly, amid hints that the window of opportunity for the Andy Reid/Donovan McNabb Eagles was about to close. And now that their ninth year together has commenced, it might be shutting quicker than either of them could have imagined. It was not a pleasant offseason in Philly, especially for Reid, who took a leave of absence from work in February to deal with family issues, then drafted what would appear to be an heir apparent to McNabb with 2nd-round pick Kevin Kolb from the University of Houston. Meanwhile, McNabb was recovering from another injury (this time a knee) after missing significant action for the third time in five seasons. Moreover, reliever deluxe Jeff Garcia bolted for Tampa Bay in the offseason, leaving the cover for McNabb a bit thinner than before (Kolb and journeyman A.J. Feeley the backups for '07). And veteran d.c. Jim Johnson has had to move pieces on his stop unit. But the real question is if McNabb, without the mobility he possessed a few years ago, can still be the impact performer he was earlier in his career. So far, it doesn't look so, as the Eagle aerial attack (always prone to dink-dink status with McNabb) can't get the ball downfield with any consistency, and there are only so many ways Reid can involve versatile RB Brian Westbrook in the offense.
7) San Francisco 49ers...Like Washington, the 49ers aren't scoring many style points in the early going, but they are winning close games, and qualify as the early "cardiac kids" of 2007 with a pair of hair-raising wins over the Cardinals and Rams. What is most encouraging about these developments, however, is that the 49ers are doing it without their offense yet hitting gear. RB Frank Gore, who missed almost all of preseason with a hand injury, is finally getting back in the groove, but with 3rd-year QB Alex Smith still a work in progress, the offense has been a bit sluggish (although putting the drives it needs together nicely in the clutch). The difference in this year's 49ers is on defense, where additions such as ex-Bills CB Nate Clements and Ole Miss rookie LB Patrick Willis have added immediate impact performers to the stop unit. No, HC Mike Nolan (a respected defensive tactician) finally has the pieces to fir in his stop unit's puzzle, and the 49ers can win the sort of 20-17 and 17-16 decisions they couldn't in the past few years.
8) San Diego Chargers...Perhaps it is too soon to draw conclusions about the coaching switch in Chargerland, with Marty Schottenheimer sent packing and Norv Turner (left) brought in to replace him after last January's bitter playoff loss vs. the Patriots. But early indications are that this is a move that might backfire in San Diego. Turner, a respected offensive tactician, has nonetheless failed at two previous head coaching assignments (Washington and Oakland), and more than a few informed observers believe Norv is ill-suited to head coaching duties, being more comfortable (and effective) as an offensive coordinator and QB tutor. And it has been apparent from watching San Diego (wearing cool new duds, by the way) in its first two games that things are different in '07. The emotional frenzy in which Marty seemed to whip the team in '06 has been mostly absent in Norv's first two games, and one wonders if the introverted Turner can provide the sort of emotional fire that fueled the Bolts a year ago. We would never discount a team with LaDainian Tomlinson and so many other accomplished performers, but the one-sided loss at New England might have been a warning sign, and we suspect things are not going to come as easy for the Bolts in '07. We're not even sure they are going to make the playoffs.
There are other teams worth mentioning, both good and bad (Lions, Giants, Chiefs, Dolphins, etc.), but we'll save discussions of those for future weeks. In the meantime, just remember that it's not 2006 anymore.
PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Derek Anderson, QB, Cleveland Browns...Stat-wise, ex-Oregon State star Anderson might have even been outdone by his counterpart in last Sunday's game, Cincy's Carson Palmer, who threw a career-best 6 TDs. But Anderson tossed 5 of his own, and more importantly, led his Browns to a wild 51-45 win, a success many are saying could be the most significant in recent franchise history, at least beginning with the Browns' rebirth in 1999. Moreover, Anderson appeared to be just a stop-gap at QB until rookie Brady Quinn was read to go, and had just inherited the job on a temporary basis after first-week starter Charlie Frye was demoted, then traded to Seattle. But Anderson executed new o.c. Rob Chudzinski's schemes beautifully, getting wideout Braylon Edwards (8 catches for 146 yards and 2 TDs) more involved, and opening the field for vet RB Jamal Lewis, who harkened memories of his salad days in Baltimore with a 215-yard rushing performance. For the Bengals, and their defense in particular, it was a massively disappointing afternoon. But for the unlikely hero Anderson, it was a week to celebrate.
GAMES TO WATCH THIS WEEK: Indianapolis (2-0) at Houston (2-0)...Are the Texans for real? We'll get a better idea this Sunday in an early showdown for first place in the AFC South. Detroit (2-0) at Philadelphia (0-2)...We're not sure if it was gutty, or plain stupid, for Lions QB Jon Kitna to go back into last week's game vs. Minnesota after suffering a concussion. But what we do know is that the phone lines are buzzing at 610 WIP in Philly, as angry callers vent their frustrations at the Birds' 0-2 start to sports talk hosts Angelo Cataldi, Al Morganti, and Howard Eskin. With Dallas galloping in the NFC East, the Eagles already might have to re-adjust their sites to the wildcard, and if they fall to 0-3, even that might be optimistic. Meanwhile, the Lions officially establish themselves as threat in the NFC North if they break 3-0. New York Giants (0-2) at Washington (2-0)...The Giants are another team on the brink of the abyss, and will fall three games off the NFC East pace if they lose this week. With each sloppy effort, HC Tom Coughlin's chances of surviving past this season grow slimmer and slimmer. Is Eli Manning really at 100%? And are the Redskins for real? Dallas (2-0) at Chicago (1-1)...One can already sense the playoff implications in this battle between two of the NFC favorites to reach the Super Bowl. The winner will have the tiebreaker edge for homefield in case these two end up level in the standings. The Cowboys have been the most-impressive NFC team to date. Can T.O. stay on good behavior? And can Wade Phillips finally prove he's a prime-time head coach?
Line of Scrimmage: It's "Reality Week" for Some 2-0 Teams
September 19th, 2007
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - It is indisputable that you have to win the first two to win them all. It is also true that you can win the first two and still go 15-67. Just ask the 1995-96 Vancouver Grizzlies of the NBA.
Fans in Vancouver started queuing up for playoff tickets when the Griz began their inaugural season at 2-0 with wins over the Trail Blazers and Timberwolves, but that line got quite a bit shorter when they promptly lost their next 19 to fall just a little off the postseason pace.
The NFL season is 66 games shorter than that of the NBA, and the first few games mean a lot more, but that doesn't change the fact that at least a couple of the NFL's current crop of ten 2-0 teams are about to be exposed as frauds.
While it's entirely plausible that teams like the Patriots, Colts, Steelers, Broncos, and Cowboys will slip into the abyss after starting the year 2-0, all of those clubs have a recent track record suggesting that they'll be able to steer the ship at least in the proximity of the postseason.
That leaves five teams that most of the NFL-viewing public is trying to size up, with the 49ers, Lions, Packers, Redskins and Texans all seeming like candidates to fall off the map, beginning with this week.
We should get a pretty good handle on where San Francisco is after the 49ers are done playing 60 minutes with fellow 2-0 Pittsburgh this Sunday. The Niners have looked pretty darned good on defense, with offseason reinforcements Nate Clements, Michael Lewis, and Patrick Willis bolstering a team that ranked last in the league in scoring defense a year ago, but we're still not sure if that offense has what it takes. Mike Nolan's club is last in the NFL in total offense (190 yards per game) as Week 2 begins, and will be taking on a Pittsburgh team that has given up a total of 10 points in two wins over Cleveland and Buffalo.
The same goes for Detroit, which has managed to outlast two of the worst teams in the league - Oakland and Minnesota - over the past two weeks, but figures to have a much tougher time in Philadelphia on Sunday. We know the Lions offense has the potential to be consistently explosive, but if even one name of a Detroit defender rolls immediately off your tongue, you must be a diehard.
Green Bay seems to be doing it with mirrors, and has also faced six consecutive opponents at exactly the right time during its current win streak, which dates back to last season. Packers fans are talking up that defense, but we'll reserve our judgment until LaDainian Tomlinson and Antonio Gates leave Lambeau Field after Week 3. The offense? It's Brett Favre, Donald Driver, and a bunch of guys. Shawne Merriman is not fearful.
The expectations have changed for the Redskins after Monday night's stunning win in Philadelphia, and based on the upcoming schedule, Washington is probably the member of the group with the best chance to stick among the elite. The Skins have seemingly winnable games against the Giants, Lions, Packers, and Cardinals next on the slate, though consistent winning over lesser opponents has hardly been Washington's hallmark during the second Joe Gibbs era.
And finally, there are the Texans, the team that parity forgot. Houston has looked great in back-to-back wins over Kansas City and Carolina, but do we really trust a team featuring a quarterback with four NFL starts under his belt, not to mention a running back who is 30 with injury problems? If the Texans are a fraud, the Colts will prove as much when they invade Reliant Stadium on Sunday.
One or all of the above will see their high hopes dashed in the coming weeks and months, though there is a bright side that those inaugural year Grizzlies didn't live to experience. If the Niners, Lions, Packers or Texans fall from grace, chances are they won't be exiled to Memphis.
Let's take a look at the week that will be in the National Football League:
FANTASY - FIVE TO START
Josh McCown, QB, Oakland (vs. Cleveland) - He's thrown a bunch of picks already, but look for him to get well against a poor Browns defense.
Cadillac Williams, RB, Tampa Bay (vs. St. Louis) - Two-touchdown performance against the Saints should spark a renaissance.
Santana Moss, WR, Washington (vs. N.Y. Giants) - Check out the Giants' numbers in the area of pass defense, and remember that the Redskins are famous for scoring on the Giants.
Marcus Pollard, TE, Seattle (vs. Cincinnati) - Young Bengals defense has had little clue against tight ends Kellen Winslow (Cleveland) and Todd Heap (Baltimore).
Carolina Defense (at Atlanta) - Falcons will make a lot of defenses look good this year.
FANTASY - FIVE TO BENCH
Brett Favre, QB, Green Bay (vs. San Diego) - Shawne Merriman will single- handedly deny him the touchdown pass record.
Edgerrin James, RB, Arizona (at Baltimore) - Is he the James of old? Maybe, but against Baltimore, he'll just look old.
Lee Evans, WR, Buffalo (at New England) - It's a shame such a great talent is being wasted on such a poor team.
Alge Crumpler, TE, Atlanta (vs. Carolina) - A couple of years ago, benching this guy would have seemed unthinkable.
Detroit Defense (at Philadelphia) - Why would you even consider starting the Lions "D"? Because they have six interceptions in two games, but remember those came against the Raiders and Vikings.
SUICIDE POOL PIX
1. New England (vs. Buffalo) - Bills won't lay down as some will expect, but they won't come close to winning either.
2. Philadelphia (vs. Detroit) - Lions are raising some eyebrows with their play, but three straight road wins are not in the cards.
3. N.Y. Jets (vs. Miami) - Jets will take a couple of weeks of frustration out on a Miami team that is no offensive stalwart.
THE GAMES
I was just 9-7 in my picks last week, and a woeful 4-11-1 against the spread. Not that I could care any less about point spreads or the degenerate gamblers who do care about them, but it was a little strange that seven of my 11 losses came in games where the team I picked actually had a big enough lead to cover at some stage of the contest, only to have their opponents come back to some degree.
Just by way of comparison, and to show the fish-in-a-barrel guesswork of trying to pick NFL games against the spread, I have had my eight-month-old daughter make her own picks for each of the first two weeks of the regular season. My wife wrote team names on 32 separate sheets of paper, and we present each matchup to daddy's little girl by placing two sheets before her on the floor corresponding to each game. Whatever paper she picks up first is her selection, and we do nothing to steer her to one sheet or the other. Through two weeks, Infant Moss is 18-11-3 (.609), which is much better than the record of Daddy (10-19-3, .359), and three games better than any of The Sports Network's "Pigskin Prognosticators" who make picks weekly at sportsnetwork.com. I kid you not.
I am 21-11 straight up, so I guess I am able to tell you with some degree of certainty which team will win every week.
Arizona (1-1) at Baltimore (1-1), Sunday, 1:00 (Ravens -8)
Storylines: Baltimore attempts to keep pace with 2-0 Pittsburgh in the AFC North, while Arizona tries to stay near 2-0 San Francisco in the NFC West...Ravens quarterback Steve McNair expected to play after missing last week's 20-13 win over the Jets with a groin problem... Baltimore defensive end Trevor Pryce (broken wrist) and tackle Jonathan Ogden (toe, foot) not expected to play against Cardinals...Cardinals running back Edgerrin James rushed for 128 yards in last week's 23-20 win over the Seahawks, his best total since coming to Arizona in 2006...Baltimore running back Willis McGahee seeking his first 100-yard game and rushing touchdown as a Raven...Arizona wideouts Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin have combined for just one touchdown catch through two games...Ravens signed former Giants and Jaguars linebacker Nick Greisen on Wednesday...Cardinals cut former starting center Nick Leckey earlier in the week.
Fast Fact: The Cardinals are one of four NFL teams (Atlanta, Minnesota, New Orleans) against which Ravens quarterback Steve McNair has never thrown an interception.
Prediction: Arizona receivers will give Ravens' secondary some problems, but Baltimore pass rush will force enough Matt Leinart mistakes to spark the win. Ravens 22, Cardinals 15.
San Diego (1-1) at Green Bay (2-0), Sunday, 1:00 (Chargers -4)
Storylines: Green Bay vying for its first 3-0 start since 2001, when it went 12-4 under Mike Sherman, while San Diego tries to rebound from last Sunday's 38-14 trouncing in New England...Packers have won six straight dating back to last season, and are seeking their first seven-game win streak since Weeks 3-10 of the 2002 season...Packers quarterback Brett Favre is three back of Dan Marino (420) at the top of the NFL's all-time touchdown passes list...Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson has been held to 68 yards and one touchdown on 35 carries (1.9 yards per rush) in two games this season...Packers rookie DeShawn Wynn rushed for a team-best 50 yards and two touchdowns in last week's 35-13 win over the Giants...Green Bay running back Vernand Morency (knee) considered questionable for Sunday after missing the team's first two games...Chargers have yet to score a first-half point through two games...San Diego nose tackle Jamal Williams (elbow) expected to play.
Fast Fact: The Chargers are 1-7 against the Packers all-time, scoring their only win in the series in 1984 at Lambeau Field.
Prediction: Chargers will get well against a Green Bay team that isn't quite ready to top a first-rate opponent. Chargers 23, Packers 9.
Indianapolis (2-0) at Houston (2-0), Sunday, 1:00 (Colts -6)
Storylines: One of two battles of unbeatens on Week 3 docket (Steelers/49ers) ...Texans, 2-0 for the first time in team history, trying to win their fifth consecutive game dating back to last season...Houston was 0-9 against Indianapolis prior to a 27-24 win last Dec. 24th...Texans' 34 points in a 34-21 win over the Panthers last week were their most in team history...Texans quarterback Matt Schaub has completed 72 percent of his passes (36-of-50) for 452 yards with three touchdowns and an interception in his first two starts with the team...Houston Pro Bowl wideout Andre Johnson (knee), who has been the recipient of all three Texans touchdown passes thus far, considered doubtful for Sunday...Colts quarterback Peyton Manning leads the league in passing yards (600)...Indianapolis linebacker Rob Morris (rib) expected back after a one-week absence...Colts are 16-2 in September under head coach Tony Dungy...Texans are tied for the league lead in turnover margin (+4).
Fast Fact: In 10 career games against the Texans, Peyton Manning has thrown for 2,708 yards with 25 touchdowns and four interceptions.
Prediction: Probable absence of Andre Johnson hurts a Houston team that needs to have all pistons firing against Peyton Manning. Colts 28, Texans 17.
Minnesota (1-1) at Kansas City (0-2), Sunday, 1:00 (Kansas City -2)
Storylines: Chiefs make home opener, while Vikings take to the road for first time in 2007... Kansas City trying to avoid first 0-3 start since 2004, when it finished 7-9 under Dick Vermeil...Minnesota quarterback Tarvaris Jackson expected to start despite throwing four interceptions and suffering a groin injury in last week's 20-17 overtime loss to the Lions...Jackson's five interceptions are tied with Oakland's Josh McCown for the most in the league...Damon Huard expected to start for Chiefs despite being benched in favor of Brodie Croyle (4-for-4, 55 yards) late in last week's 20-10 loss to the Bears...Kansas City linebacker Napoleon Harris, a member of the Vikings in 2005 and 2006, will face his former team...Vikings fullback Tony Richardson, a member of the Chiefs from 1995 through 2005, will take on his former employer...Vikings end and former first-round pick Erasmus James (knee), who has not played since 2005, considered questionable for Sunday...Chiefs, Eagles, and Falcons are tied with a league-low one touchdown scored through two games...Kansas City end Jared Allen slated to return from a two-game NFL suspension.
Fast Fact: Chiefs running back Larry Johnson has failed to score a touchdown in five of his last seven games, dating back to last season.
Prediction: In one of the uglier NFL games you'll see in 2007, Larry Johnson will make one more play than Adrian Peterson. Chiefs 13, Vikings 10.
Buffalo (0-2) at New England (2-0), Sunday, 1:00 (Patriots -16)
Storylines: New England looks to keep rolling after downing Jets and Chargers by identical 38-14 scores...Bills trying to avoid first 0-3 start since 2004, when they lost their first four before rallying to finish 9-7 under Mike Mularkey...Bills have lost seven straight against Patriots, have dropped six in a row in New England, and are 1-12 in their last 13 contests against the Pats overall...New England last started 3-0 in 2004, when it won its first six en route to a 14-2 finish and Super Bowl title...Patriots quarterback Tom Brady leads the NFL in passer rating (134.2) and completion percentage (79.7)...New England receiver Randy Moss is tied for the league lead in receptions (17)...Bills are last in the league in passing offense (96.5 yards per game)...Patriots lead the league in total defense (214 yards per game) and rushing defense (56 yards per game)...New England had to rally from a 17-7 deficit to beat Buffalo, 19-17, when the teams met in Week 1 at Gillette Stadium last season.
Fast Fact: The last Bills quarterback to win a start in New England was Doug Flutie, who led Buffalo to a 16-13 overtime victory over the Patriots on Nov. 5, 2000.
Prediction: Patriots can't possibly lose to Buffalo, but don't forget that the Bills gave New England a rough time in Foxborough last year. Patriots 21, Bills 16.
Miami (0-2) at N.Y. Jets (0-2), Sunday, 1:00 (Jets -3)
Storylines: AFC East rivals both seeking their first win in only battle of winless teams on Week 3 docket...Jets last opened 0-3 in 2003, when they lost their first four en route to a 6-10 finish under Herm Edwards...Dolphins last started 0-3 in 2004, when they dropped their first six en route to a 4-12 season under Dave Wannstedt and Jim Bates...Starting quarterback uncertain for Jets, after second-year-pro Kellen Clemens started last week's 20-13 loss to Baltimore in place of an injured Chad Pennington (leg)...Dolphins head coach Cam Cameron and quarterback Trent Green both seeking first win with Miami... Jets wideout Jerricho Cotchery had a career-high 165 receiving yards against the Ravens...Dolphins are last in the league in rushing offense (63.5 yards per game)...Running back Thomas Jones has totaled 109 yards on 38 carries without a touchdown in his first two games as a Jet...Miami rusher Ronnie Brown has gone over 100 yards in his last two games against the Jets...Jets Pro Bowl kickoff returner Justin Miller (knee) is out for the year...Dolphins have lost five of their last six against Jets.
Fast Fact: Since their 40-37 overtime loss at the Meadowlands on a Monday night in 2000, the Dolphins have averaged 12.6 points and have gone 1-5 in six road games with the Jets.
Prediction: It won't be beautiful, but Mangini will find the left column behind a strong effort from his defense. Jets 16, Dolphins 12.
Detroit (2-0) at Philadelphia (0-2), Sunday, 1:00 (Philadelphia -6)
Storylines: Lions looking to start 3-0 for the first time since 1980, when they won their first four en route to a 9-7 finish under Monte Clark... Philadelphia seeking to avoid its first 0-3 start since 1999, when it lost its first four en route to a 5-11 finish under then-first-year head coach Andy Reid...Eagles, who are still looking for their first win since Donovan McNabb's ACL surgery last November, have scored just one touchdown in their first eight quarters of 2007, tied with the Falcons and Chiefs for fewest in the league...Running back and Philadelphia-area native Kevin Jones (foot) expected to make his first appearance of the year for the Lions...Detroit leads the NFL in passing offense (321.5 yards per game)...Lions defense has recorded an NFL-high six interceptions through two games...Status of Philadelphia cornerback Lito Sheppard (knee) uncertain for Sunday, and safety Brian Dawkins (neck stinger) expected to play...Eagles re-signed kick returner J.R. Reed on Wednesday, after Reed had been released due to a key fumble in Week 1.
Fast Fact: The last Lions quarterback to win a start in Philadelphia was Joe Ferguson, who engineered a 13-11 victory (on 10-of-33 passing) at Veterans Stadium on Nov. 16, 1986.
Prediction: Eagles won't run away with it on a short week, but the Lions will look enough like the Lions of old to lose it. Eagles 20, Lions 19.
San Francisco (2-0) at Pittsburgh (2-0), Sunday, 1:00 (Steelers -9)
Storylines: One of two battles of unbeatens on Week 3 docket (Colts/Texans) ...Niners last started 3-0 in 1998, when they finished 12-4 under Steve Mariucci...Steelers haven't opened at 3-0 since 1992, when they went 11-5 under first-year head coach Bill Cowher...49ers are 2-0 despite ranking last in the league in total offense (190 yards per game)...Steelers have given up a league-low 10 points through two games...San Francisco running back Frank Gore is tied for first in the league with 6.3 yards per rush...Steelers running back Willie Parker has gone over 100 yards in five of his last six games dating back to last season...Pittsburgh linebacker James Harrison (neck) could play after being carted off the field in last week's 26-3 win over the Bills...Steelers rookie tight end Matt Spaeth, who has caught touchdown passes in each of Pittsburgh's first two games, considered questionable for Sunday with a thigh problem... Steelers wideout Cedrick Wilson played in 53 games with the 49ers between 2001 and 2004.
Fast Fact: The 49ers have won by double digits in their last two trips to Pittsburgh, winning at Three Rivers Stadium in 1993 (24-13) and 1996 (25-15).
Prediction: Look for the 49ers to hang, but for the Steeler defense to ultimately be too tough. Steelers 20, 49ers 16.
St. Louis (0-2) at Tampa Bay (1-1), Sunday, 1:00 (Buccaneers -4)
Storylines: Rams, who will play their first road game after dropping consecutive home contests, last opened at 0-3 in 2002, when they fell in their first five en route to a 7-9 finish under Mike Martz...Buccaneers running back Cadillac Williams scored two touchdowns in last week's 31-14 upset of the Saints, doubling his 2006 scoring output...Rams running back Steven Jackson has been held to 118 yards on 39 carries without a touchdown in his first two games of 2007...St. Louis guard Richie Incognito (ankle), linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa (ankle), and cornerback Tye Hill (back, ribs) all considered questionable for Sunday...Rams have lost an NFL-high five fumbles through two games...Buccaneers tackle Kevin Carter was a first-round pick of the Rams in 1995, and recorded 61 sacks with St. Louis from 1995 through 2000...St. Louis quarterback Marc Bulger leads the NFC with 535 passing yards...Tampa Bay linebacker Barrett Rudd is reigning NFC Defensive Player of the Week after recording 16 tackles, two forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery against the Saints.
Fast Fact: Rams receiver Isaac Bruce has scored at least one career touchdown against every NFC team but the Buccaneers.
Prediction: Call it a trap game for the Buccaneers, who are thinking a little too much of themselves following last week's performance against the Saints. Rams 23, Buccaneers 20.
Jacksonville (1-1) at Denver (2-0), Sunday, 4:05 (Broncos -3)
Storylines: Broncos seeking first 3-0 start since 2003, when they won their first four en route to a 10-6 finish...Jaguars take to the road for first time in 2007 after splitting a pair of home games...Denver running back Travis Henry, who is aiming for his fifth consecutive 100-yard game dating back to last season, leads the NFL in rushing yards (267)...Broncos wideout Javon Walker is tied for the league lead in receptions (17)...Broncos lead the NFL in total offense (455 yards per game)...Jacksonville has scored a total of two touchdowns in its first two games of 2007, neither by running back Maurice Jones-Drew (16 touchdowns last season)...Denver has allowed a league-low 125 passing yards through two games...Jaguars are allowing an NFL-high 182 rushing yards per game...Jaguars safety Gerald Sensabaugh (shoulder) considered questionable for Sunday...Jacksonville defense, which last week featured rookies Justin Durant (linebacker) and Reggie Nelson (safety), tallied seven sacks in last week's 13-7 win over the Falcons...Broncos re-signed tight end Stephen Alexander, who had been cut prior to last week's win over Oakland, on Tuesday.
Fast Fact: Jaguars kicker John Carney has kicked 37 of his 415 career field goals against the Broncos, more than against any team other than Seattle (49).
Prediction: Jacksonville will be game, but doesn't have enough offensive punch or run-stopping ability to beat Denver at this stage. Broncos 16, Jaguars 15.
Cleveland (1-1) at Oakland (0-2), Sunday, 4:05 (Raiders -3)
Storylines: Oakland trying to avoid its third consecutive 0-3 start and hand head coach Lane Kiffin his first NFL win...Raiders quarterback Josh McCown has thrown five interceptions in two starts, tied for the league high along with Minnesota's Tarvaris Jackson...Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson threw five touchdown passes and earned his first win as an NFL starter in last week's 51-45 win over the Bengals...Oakland has lost 11 straight and is 2-22 over its last 24 games...Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis comes off a 215-yard outing, his first 200-yard game since the 2003 season...Raiders rusher LaMont Jordan rushed for a career-high 159 yards on 25 carries in last week's 23-20 overtime loss to the Broncos...Browns are allowing a league-worst 448 yards per game...Oakland trying to avoid its first 12-game losing streak since dropping its first 13 games in 1962...Raiders end Derrick Burgess (calf) expected to play after missing the end of last week's loss to the Broncos... Browns last won back-to-back games in September of 2004.
Fast Fact: Cleveland running back Jamal Lewis (250 rushing yards), one of four players to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a season (Eric Dickerson, Barry Sanders, Terrell Davis), is on pace to rush for exactly 2,000 yards in 2007.
Prediction: Raiders will finally give the home fans something to cheer for, as they show that the Browns' Week 2 performance was an aberration. Raiders 24, Browns 13.
Cincinnati (1-1) at Seattle (1-1), Sunday, 4:15 (Seattle -4)
Storylines: Two teams seeking to rebound from difficult losses converge in Seattle...Bengals were 51-45 losers in Cleveland last Sunday, their most points allowed since giving up 52 to Carolina in 2002...Seahawks were 23-20 losers in Arizona thanks in part to a fumbled exchange between quarterback Matt Hasselbeck and running back Shaun Alexander in the waning moments... Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer leads the NFL in touchdown passes (... Bengals wideout Chad Johnson leads the NFL in receiving yards (304), and fellow Cincinnati receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh is tied for the league lead in receptions (17)...Seahawks wideout Deion Branch caught seven passes for 122 yards against the Cardinals, his most yards in a regular season game since 2002...Bengals middle linebacker Ahmad Brooks (groin) and wide receiver Tab Perry (hamstring) considered questionable for Sunday...Beleaguered Cincinnati defense signed ex-Eagles linebacker Dhani Jones on Wednesday.
Fast Fact: The most touchdown passes Cincinnati quarterback Carson Palmer (eight TDs the last two weeks) has thrown in a three-game span is nine, achieved between Weeks 10-12 of the 2006 season.
Prediction: Seahawks will exploit a weak Bengals defense, and Palmer and company won't be able to keep pace on the other side of the ball. Seahawks 27, Bengals 19.
Carolina (1-1) at Atlanta (0-2), Sunday, 4:15 (Panthers -4)
Storylines: Falcons head coach Bobby Petrino and quarterback Joey Harrington make formal debuts before home fans at the Georgia Dome, and will be seeking first wins as Falcons...Atlanta last started 0-3 in 1999, when it finished 4-12 under Dan Reeves...Carolina seeks to rebound from a 34-21 home loss to Houston last Sunday...Falcons, Eagles, and Chiefs are tied with a league-low one touchdown through two games, and Atlanta has scored an NFL-worst 10 points...Atlanta signed quarterback Byron Leftwich on Tuesday, and the former Jaguars starter and first-round pick is expected to serve as the No. 3 quarterback this week...Panthers receiver Steve Smith, who scored all three Carolina touchdowns in last week's game, is tied with the Giants' Plaxico Burress for the league lead in TDs (4)...Falcons tackle Wayne Gandy (hamstring) considered questionable after leaving last week's loss to Jacksonville...Panthers have won three of the last four against Falcons, including last two at the Georgia Dome...Atlanta signed 47-year-old kicker Morten Andersen on Monday.
Fast Fact: The last Atlanta quarterback other than Michael Vick to win a start was Kurt Kittner, who led the Falcons to a 27-7 victory over the Giants on Nov. 9, 2003.
Prediction: Falcons will look like they have something to play for in what could be their last stand before joining the Brian Brohm sweepstakes. Panthers 20, Falcons 19.
N.Y. Giants (0-2) at Washington (2-0), Sunday, 4:15 (Redskins -4)
Storylines: Redskins vying for second 3-0 start in the past three years, and also trying to keep pace with similarly 2-0 Dallas...Giants trying to avoid their first 0-3 start since 1996, when they went 6-10 in Dan Reeves' final season...New York quarterback Eli Manning (shoulder) expected to play despite leaving late in last week's 35-13 home loss to the Packers...Giants wideout Plaxico Burress, who is tied with Carolina's Steve Smith for the league lead in touchdowns (4), expected to play despite ankle and finger problems...Giants are allowing an NFL-high 310.5 passing yards and 40 points per contest...New York wideout Steve Smith (broken shoulder blade) and running back Brandon Jacobs (knee) not expected to play...Washington running back Clinton Portis has scored touchdowns in each of the team's first two games... Brothers and wideouts Santana (Redskins) and Sinorice Moss (Giants) will oppose each other...Giants have won seven of the last 10 against Redskins, and swept last year's home-and-home.
Fast Fact: The Redskins have averaged 28.5 points per game in their last six home outings with the Giants.
Prediction: Redskins won't play great on a short week against a desperate team, but they'll pull it out against a hapless group of Giants. Redskins 17, Giants 14.
Dallas (2-0) at Chicago (1-1), Sunday, 8:15 (Bears -3)
Storylines: Cowboys, who have scored a league-high 82 points through two games, take on a stingy Bears defense that has allowed just 24 points in its first two outings...Dallas last started 3-0 in 1999, when it went 8-8 under Chan Gailey...Chicago quarterback Rex Grossman has thrown one touchdown pass versus three interceptions in his first two games of 2007...Cowboys wideout Terrell Owens has scored touchdowns in six consecutive regular season games dating back to last season...Bears running back Cedric Benson rushed for 101 yards on 24 carries in last week's 20-10 win over Kansas City, his second 100- yard game in a Chicago uniform...Bears return man Devin Hester brought back a punt for a touchdown last week, the seventh TD return for a score in his 18- game NFL career...Dallas signed troubled former Bears defensive tackle Tank Johnson, who is currently serving an eight-game NFL suspension, earlier this week...The Cowboys are 0-2 at Soldier Field and have scored a total of 18 points there since upsetting Chicago, 17-13, in a 1991 NFC First-Round Playoff in the Windy City.
Fast Fact: Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (3,172 passing yards in 12 career starts) needs 388 yards this week to set the NFL mark for most yards in his first 13 NFL starts, currently held by Kurt Warner.
Prediction: If you truly believe that defense wins championships, how can you bet against Chicago? Bears 30, Cowboys 14.
Tennessee (1-1) at New Orleans (0-2), Monday, 8:30 (Saints -4)
Storylines: Saints become NFL's 32nd and final team to make their 2007 home opener...New Orleans last started 0-3 in 1997, when it finished 6-10 under Mike Ditka...Tennessee quarterback Vince Young and New Orleans running back Reggie Bush meet for their first meaningful contest since Young and Texas defeated Bush and USC in the 2005 Rose Bowl...Bush will oppose former backfield mate LenDale White, now with the Titans...Saints, who led the NFL in total offense last season, have scored a total of 24 points and have scored two offensive touchdowns through two games...Titans lead the NFL in rushing offense (211 yards per game)...Tennessee has won four straight road games dating back to last season...Saints are just 7-15 (.318) all-time on Monday night, the worst record of the 31 teams that have played on the second day of the week...New Orleans snapped a seven-game Monday night losing streak with last year's 23-3 win over Atlanta in Week 3...Tennessee has lost four of its last six on Monday night.
Fast Fact: Tennessee running back Chris Brown has not scored a touchdown in the last 11 games in which he has had a carry, a span of 176 rush attempts.
Prediction: Saints will benefit from their own desperation and a super-charged atmosphere in the Superdome. Saints 31, Titans 20.
Ravens sign LB Greisen
September 19th, 2007
Owings Mills, MD (Sports Network) - The Baltimore Ravens signed free agent linebacker Nick Greisen on Wednesday. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The 28-year-old Greisen was released by Jacksonville on September 1 as part of the team's final roster cutdown.
A fifth-round selection in the 2002 draft by the New York Giants, Greisen enters 2007 having played in 70 career games, starting 31. He has totaled 237 tackles (163 solo), four sacks, five forced fumbles and six fumble recoveries.
Greisen's most productive season came in 2006 with the Jags, when he played in 16 games, starting 10 while posting a career-high 82 tackles (48 solo) and notching his first career interception.
Eagles re-sign Reed
September 19th, 2007
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Eagles announced on Wednesday they have re-signed safety/kick returner J.R. Reed and released tackle Pat McCoy.
The team also signed tackle Jonathan Palmer to the practice squad and released tight end Lee Vickers from that unit.
Reed, a fourth-round draft choice of the club in 2004, played in the Eagles' 2007 season-opening loss at Green Bay, muffing a punt return with time winding down and the game on the line.
Reed raced up the field and tried to haul in a short kick, but the ball glanced off his body and to the ground, where it was recovered by Green Bay cornerback Jarrett Bush. A few plays later Mason Crosby hit a 42-yard field goal with seconds remaining, giving the Packers a 16-13 victory.
Reed was jettisoned two days later when the Eagles signed running back/kick returner Reno Mahe to a one-year deal.
The 25-year-old Reed spent an impressive rookie season as the Eagles' primary kickoff returner, averaging 23.1 yards on 33 returns. He then suffered nerve damage that effected his lower leg and foot in an accident during the 2005 offseason and missed that entire campaign.
Reed was released by the Eagles on September 3, 2006 and landed in St. Louis, where he played six games and recorded five tackles. He also spent time with the Atlanta Falcons in 2006 and with the New York Giants this summer.
Jaguars place Sensabaugh on injured reserve, re-sign Fudge
September 19, 2007
Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -- The Jacksonville Jaguars placed safety Gerald Sensabaugh on injured reserve Wednesday and re-signed safety Jamaal Fudge.
Sensabaugh injured his shoulder in Sunday's 13-7 win over Atlanta. The third-year player had started both games this season, getting eight tackles and a fumble recovery.
Fudge, who played in six games last season after signing as an undrafted rookie free agent, was waived in final roster cuts earlier this month.
Packers' injury report overflowing going into Chargers game
September 19, 2007
Associated Press
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) -- Green Bay Packers coach Mike McCarthy believes the roots of his team's fast start lie partially in his training camp schedule, which allowed for more rest and recovery time than usual.
Given more time to recuperate, the theory went, players would have more energy when the regular season rolled around. So far, you can't argue with a 2-0 record after the Packers started 1-4 in each of their past three seasons.
But given all that time to rest up, what's with the injuries?
"We started fast in our first two games, but we've got way too many guys on IR and way too many guys on the injury report," McCarthy said. "Rest and recovery? I'm not going to give them any more rest, I can tell you that, so we need to recover better."
A whopping 13 players missed all or part of practice on Wednesday. That's a discouraging development for the Packers, who will be trying to prove their quick start is for real on Sunday against a talented San Diego team coming off an embarrassing loss to New England.
Among those who did not practice for the Packers on Wednesday were tight end Bubba Franks (knee), cornerback Al Harris (back), wide receiver Greg Jennings (hamstring), defensive lineman Corey Williams (ankle) and cornerback Charles Woodson (hip).
The list of players limited in practice included left tackle Chad Clifton (ankle), defensive lineman Cullen Jenkins (wrist), defensive lineman Johnny Jolly (heel), defensive lineman Aaron Kampman (rib), backup offensive lineman Tony Moll (neck), running back Vernand Morency (knee), backup safety Aaron Rouse (hamstring) and offensive lineman Jason Spitz (calf).
Beyond that, defensive lineman Mike Montgomery (knee) and offensive lineman Tony Palmer (neck) already have been ruled out for Sunday's game. And the Packers already have placed eight players, most notably third-down back Noah Herron and wide receiver Carlyle Holiday, on injured reserve.
In response to what might be the worst early-season injury situation he has seen, McCarthy didn't have his remaining healthy players practice in full pads on Wednesday.
"I haven't been in this situation ... as I can recall, even as an assistant, this early in the season," McCarthy said. "But that's where we are."
McCarthy said Morency, who hurt his knee on the first day of training camp, had a fairly full day of practice Wednesday.
That also was the case last week, when Morency had a good practice on Wednesday, but his knee flared up on Thursday and he was inactive for Sunday's victory over the New York Giants.
"He went most of the practice," McCarthy said. "I know we had him limited participation, but we worked him as much as we could, trying to get the other three guys ready, too. Tomorrow morning's medical review will be a factor in whether he goes this week or not."
The ongoing injury is frustrating to Morency, who came into training camp as the projected starter.
"I feel like I am a spark on this club," Morency said. "I want to be out there as soon as possible. But the doctors and the team and myself are trying to be smart. It's a long season. But I want to be out there ASAP. I'm doing my rehab, doing everything I'm supposed to do, and just praying every single day like I normally do."
If it was up to him, would he have been back out there already?
"Probably stupidly," Morency said. "Knowing that I'm not where I need to be at, but being a competitor, you feel like you can still help the team out any which way. Would I have been able to cut and play my game? No."
For now, Morency has been reduced to helping rookies Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn. Despite the 2-0 start, the Packers' running game has struggled in the first two games.
"Yeah, our running game is not where everybody expected it to be," Morency said. "But yet, it's still early in the season, and everybody's still learning. It'll get there."
McCarthy said Jennings, who also has been inactive for the first two games, most likely wouldn't return to practice until Friday. The outlook for the Packers' other injured starters also was unclear.
McCarthy said the players who didn't practice Wednesday would be pushed in rehabilitation, and he'd have a better idea on Thursday who might be available to play.
Vikings safeties Sharper, Smith, miss practice
September 19, 2007
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -The Minnesota Vikings' last line of defense is suddenly looking a little shaky.
Starting safeties Darren Sharper (hip) and Dwight Smith (hamstring) did not practice Wednesday, the first day of preparation for Sunday's game at Kansas City.
Sharper intercepted two passes and Smith also picked off one in Sunday's loss at Detroit. If they cannot go, Tank Williams and Mike Doss will get the start.
Williams and Doss have a combined 11 years of experience, but Williams is coming off a major knee injury last season and Doss has been hampered by a calf injury since the third game of the preseason. Doss practiced on Wednesday, but was still listed on the injury report.
Running back Chester Taylor (hip/oblique), fullback Tony Richardson (forearm) and receiver Troy Williamson (hamstring) were limited in practice on Wednesday.
Coach Brad Childress said Sharper and Smith were doing some rehab work in the pool and Taylor was ``progressing.''
Niners LB Manny Lawson out for season with torn knee ligament
September 20, 2007
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP) -Linebacker Manny Lawson will miss the rest of the San Francisco 49ers' season after tearing a ligament in his left knee.
Lawson, a starting outside linebacker in the 49ers' 3-4 defensive scheme, went down with the injury during Wednesday's practice. The injury didn't initially appear to be serious, and Lawson rode on a stationary bike for the rest of the team's workout.
But tests determined Thursday that Lawson tore his anterior cruciate ligament.
Lawson is second on the team with 14 tackles, showing impressive improvement from his rookie year. He started 11 games last season after San Francisco chose him with the 22nd overall selection, making 65 tackles and 2 1/2 sacks.
Veteran Hannibal Navies and seldom-used second-year pro Parys Haralson are the top candidates to replace Lawson.
Vikings' QB Jackson misses again; Doss, Williams getting ready at safety
ASSOCIATED PRESS
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. -- Vikings quarterback Tarvaris Jackson missed his second straight day of practice Thursday, and it's appearing more likely that veteran Kelly Holcomb will start for Minnesota against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Jackson injured his groin in the fourth quarter against Detroit last Sunday, and has been unable to participate in the first two practices of the week.
But Vikings coach Brad Childress was still playing it coy Thursday, saying the window is still open for Jackson to recover and play at Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday.
''I'm still keeping it open because I watched him move around and he did better this morning,'' Childress said.
Holcomb, acquired late in the preseason in a trade with Philadelphia to provide more experience behind the young Jackson, has been working to get acclimated with the Vikings and appears to have leapfrogged incumbent backup Brooks Bollinger on the depth chart.
Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said Holcomb was ''absolutely'' ready to play if the Vikings need him Sunday. He also said that missing practice is more detrimental to a young player such as Jackson, who has only four career starts, as opposed to a veteran.
''I'll be honest with you, Tarvaris needs every rep that he can get,'' Bevell said. ''He needs to be in there. He needs to be running the offense.''
Still, the Vikings said that if Jackson is healthy, he's the starter.
In other injury news, safety Dwight Smith missed his second straight practice with a hamstring injury and fellow starting safety Darren Sharper (hip) was limited.
That makes the decision to keep veteran safeties Tank Williams and Mike Doss on the roster all the more important.
Defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier said he was preparing as if Doss and Williams would be playing most of the snaps in Sunday's game at Kansas City.
''We have to do that because neither Dwight nor Darren practiced yesterday, so you have to prepare that way,'' Frazier said. ''Hopefully they will both be ready by Sunday, but we have to get Tank and Mike ready.''
Doss has been bothered by a calf injury for the last month and hasn't played in a regular-season game since he tore knee ligaments while with the Indianapolis Colts against Washington on Oct. 22.
He has been practicing and said he feels ready to go if needed.
''It's been almost a year since I've been in a real, regular-season game,'' Doss said. ''I'm looking forward to getting back out there.''
Running back Chester Taylor (hip/oblique), fullback Tony Richardson (forearm) and receiver Troy Williamson (hamstring) were also limited in practice.
Dolphins' Zach Thomas could miss Sunday vs. Jets
ASSOCIATED PRESS
DAVIE, Fla. -- Dolphins middle linebacker Zach Thomas underwent tests Thursday for a possible concussion, and he may miss Sunday's game against the New York Jets.
Thomas played every snap in Miami's loss last week to Dallas but said he felt ''a little lightheaded'' in the locker room after the game, coach Cam Cameron said. Thomas complained of a migraine Wednesday and missed practice, which led to the tests.
Thomas has fought migraine and concussion problems in the past but has missed only 13 games in a 12-year career. A decision on whether he can play this week is likely by Friday, Cameron said.
''In a lot of cases, the player wants to play,'' the coach said. ''Sometimes you've just got to take a deep breath, and sometimes it's tough. You know what it means to lose a player like Zach Thomas. But there is a lot bigger picture out there that you are accountable to.''
If Thomas doesn't play, outside linebacker Channing Crowder would start in the middle, and Donnie Spragan would likely move into the lineup on the outside.
Thomas, a seven-time Pro Bowl player, had 10 tackles against the Cowboys. Teammate Joey Porter said Thomas displayed no symptoms during the game, other than repeatedly wanting a new mouthpiece.
''When you have a concussion or something, a new mouthpiece always fits tighter and you get a better grip on it,'' Porter said. ''He had a mouthpiece, but he just wanted another one. A brand new one is harder. The old one, you tend to chew on it, and you wear it out a little bit.''
Week 3 betting news and notes
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Arizona at Baltimore
Baltimore lost its only home game to Arizona on a field goal as time expired in a 16-13 defeat on Nov. 23, 1997. The Ravens have taken the other two meetings between the teams, the most recent coming during the 2003 season.
Buffalo at New England
Buffalo has lost 12 of its last 13 games to New England and hasn't won at Foxborough since a 16-13 victory on Nov. 5, 2000.
Detroit at Philadelphia
Philadelphia has won its last four meetings with Detroit by a combined 122-76. The Lions' last victory over the Eagles was a 13-11 win on Nov. 16, 1986.
Indianapolis at Houston
The Texans rank third in rushing defense but they're in the middle of the pack in defending the pass - a flaw that could hurt them against the Colts' Pro Bowl tandem. Peyton Manning has 25 touchdown passes against the Texans - tied for his most against any opponent - and Marvin Harrison has three consecutive 100-yard receiving games against them.
Miami at N.Y. Jets
Trent Green is having a shaky first season with the Dolphins, posting a quarterback rating of just 70.8 while throwing for 506 yards, three touchdowns and the four INTs. The Jets swept the season series with the Dolphins in 2006.
Minnesota at Kansas City
Kansas City is 20-4 at home against NFC teams since 1995, the best record in the NFL during that span.This is the first meeting between the teams since 2003, when Minnesota beat Kansas City 45-20 to even the all-time series at four wins apiece. The teams haven't played at Arrowhead Stadium since 1999.
San Diego at Green Bay
Green Bay has won seven of eight all-time meetings against San Diego, with the Chargers' only victory coming at Lambeau Field in 1984.
San Francisco at Pittsburgh
The 49ers have won four of their last five games against the Steelers, including two victories in Pittsburgh, where they haven't lost since Sept. 13, 1987.The Steelers, meanwhile, have won 11 of their last 12 interconference games since the beginning of the 2004 season.
St. Louis at Tampa Bay
These teams have not met since a 28-21 St. Louis victory on Oct. 18, 2004. The Rams snapped a four-game losing streak in the series.
Cincinnati at Seattle
Seattle returns to the comforts of Qwest Field, where it rarely loses. The Seahawks are an NFC-best 27-6 at home since 2003, and beat Tampa Bay 20-6 there in Week 1.
Seattle is also 5-2 in its last seven games against the AFC. Shaun Alexander has averaged 136.4 yards per game in his last five contests against AFC teams, scoring 10 touchdowns in those games.
Seattle is 23-2 when Alexander has at least two rushing scores in a game.These teams haven't met in Seattle since 1999. The Bengals beat the Seahawks 27-24 at home in 2003, tying the all-time series at eight wins apiece.
Cleveland at Oakland
Cleveland is playing its first road game of the season. The Browns lost their last three contests away from home in 2006 en route to posting a 2-6 road record for the second consecutive year.The franchise is 20-44 on the road since rejoining the NFL for the 1999 season.
Jacksonville at Denver
Denver outgained Jacksonville 188-12 on the ground in the most recent meeting to win 20-7 on Oct. 2, 2005. The Jaguars' only win in four all-time trips to Denver was a 30-27 upset on Jan. 4, 1997 that sent them to the AFC championship game in just their second year of existence.
Carolina at Atlanta
The Falcons have been held to a combined 14 points and 388 total yards in losing their last two home games against the Panthers. Carolina had lost its previous seven trips to the Georgia Dome.
N.Y. Giants at Washington
New York took both meetings with Washington last season, winning 19-3 at home on Oct. 8 before a 34-28 victory in the Dec. 30 matchup at FedEx Field. The all-time series is tied 37-37-1.
Dallas at Chicago
The Cowboys and Bears have not met since Thanksgiving Day 2004, as Julius Jones ran for 150 yards and two TDs on 33 attempts in Dallas' 21-7 victory.These teams have alternated wins in their last five meetings, but Chicago has won the last three matchups at Soldier Field.
Tennessee at New Orleans
The Titans will try for their fourth straight victory over the Saints and third in a row at the Superdome. Tennessee won 27-11 on Sept. 21, 2003 in the teams' most recent meeting.
Spaeth may be out for 49ers
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Matt Spaeth, left, could miss Sunday's game against San Francisco.
Rookie tight end Matt Spaeth, who has two touchdown catches in two games, might have his scoring streak interrupted.
Spaeth (quad contusion) did not practice for the second day in a row and probably won't play against the San Francisco 49ers if he doesn't practice today, said offensive coordinator Bruce Arians.
"He's made some good progress, but we'll wait and see," Arians said. "If he can't practice [today], for a young guy, it would be hard to play on Sunday."
If Spaeth cannot play, veteran Jerame Tuman will move up to the second tight end against the 49ers. It also means Arians will use a fullback or an extra lineman in certain situations when the Steelers typically use a three-tight end formation.
Spaeth, a third-round draft choice from Minnesota, said he initially bruised his left thigh in the season-opening victory in Cleveland, then took another hit on the same area against the Buffalo Bills.
Spaeth came out of the game, stretched his thigh with the help of trainer John Norwig, and returned to play against the Bills. He caught a 1-yard touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger in the third quarter, his second in as many games.
"You don't feel it as much during the game with all the adrenaline going," Spaeth said. "But, a couple hours after the game you really feel it."
Other injuries
Running back Najeh Davenport (hamstring) and guard Kendall Simmons (shoulder) each returned to practice after sitting out Wednesday's session with injuries.
Each is expected to play against the 49ers.
49ers wide receiver Darrell Jackson (back), acquired in a trade from the Seattle Seahawks, did not practice for the second day in a row. Bajema (ankle) and receiver Arnaz Battle (groin) practiced on a limited basis.
Back comes Frazier
Linebacker Andre Frazier was glad to be back in the Steelers' locker room, slightly more than a year after he was released by the team.
The Steelers claimed him off waivers from the Cincinnati Bengals, who released him after their 51-45 loss to the Cleveland Browns to make room for linebacker Dhani Jones. The Steelers released linebacker Marquis Cooper to make room for Frazier.
"I'm familiar with all the guys," said Frazier, who originally signed with the Steelers as an undrafted free agent before the 2005 season. "Coach [Dick] LeBeau was here then, so there are a lot of things I still remember."
Frazier (6-5, 255) played one season with the Steelers and was with them in training camp last season. He made it to the final cut before he was released in favor of Arnold Harrison, another undrafted free agent.
During the final preseason game last season, Frazier was seen arguing on the sidelines with former coach Bill Cowher. Asked if that led to his release, Frazier said, "I don't know. We spoke face-to-face and he told me it was never like that. I'm taking him at his word, so I doubt it."
Packers place Palmer on IR
September 20th, 2007
Green Bay, WI (Sports Network) - The Green Bay Packers placed guard Tony Palmer on injured reserve Thursday.
Palmer played in the team's first two games this season, but is suffering from a neck injury.
He saw action in six games in 2006 as a rookie out of Missouri.