Cardinals' Johnson out
September 20th, 2007
Flagstaff, AZ (Sports Network) - Arizona Cardinals center Al Johnson will miss Sunday's game at Baltimore with a knee injury.
Johnson played in the opener against San Francisco, but sat out last week's 23-20 win against Seattle.
He is in his first year with Arizona after spending the first four seasons of his career with Dallas.
McNair to start Sunday, Ogden out
Associated Press
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Steve McNair will start Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals and offensive tackle Jonathan Ogden will be out for the second consecutive week.
McNair missed last week's win over the New York Jets with a groin pull.
"Steve seems to have gotten through the week OK, so hopefully it will show up that way on Sunday," Ravens coach Brian Billick said Friday. "It was just a matter of how he felt. He felt pretty good, so that was the key."
Meanwhile, Ogden is definitely out with a nagging turf toe injury and a sprained left foot.
"It won't be this week, but he's progressing," Billick said.
Cornerback Samari Rolle missed practice for the second consecutive day because of illness.
"We'll see," Billick said. "He's got a little bit of a bug going on."
Eagles TE Smith undergoes surgery, sidelined for Sunday
September 21st, 2007
Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Philadelphia Eagles tight end L.J. Smith underwent surgery Friday to clean out scar tissue surrounding his injured groin, and will miss Sunday's game against Detroit.
Smith, who underwent successful offseason sports hernia surgery, strained his groin during training camp and continues to battle the injury. The tight end has posted just 26 yards on four receptions over the Eagles' first two games. Taking Smith's place against the Lions will be veteran Matt Schobel and rookie Brent Celek.
Smith has 172 receptions and 14 touchdowns over his four-year career in Philly. A second-round draft choice out of Rutgers in 2003, he earned the full-time starting job in 2005 and has since registered 111 catches and eight touchdowns in that role.
Also, running back Brian Westbrook practiced Friday, and is expected to start Sunday, while quarterback Donovan McNabb practiced without a brace on his surgically-repaired right knee. McNabb, playing his first meaningful game at Lincoln Financial Field since last November 19, when he tore his right ACL, connected on 28-of-46 passes for 240 yards in Monday's 20-12 loss to Washington.
On the defensive side, free safety Brian Dawkins, who suffered a neck stinger while tackling Todd Yoder and was forced out of Monday's game, did not practice Friday because of neck spasms, and cornerback Lito Sheppard participated in limited conditioning work. Dawkins remains a game-time decision.
Burress questionable for Giants
September 21st, 2007
East Rutherford, NJ (Sports Network) - New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burres is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Washington because of an ankle injury.
"He was limited," said Giants head coach Tom Coughlin after practice on Friday. "He did some things. He didn't complete the full practice, but he did a few things and we will see. It is going to be one of those deals depending on how he feels on game day."
Burress has 10 catches for 176 yards and four touchdowns this season.
In other injury news, New York will again be without running back Brandon Jacobs, who suffered a sprained knee in Week 1 and missed Week 2 as a result.
Jags could be without Henderson for first time in his 6-year career
September 21, 2007
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) -Jaguars defensive tackle John Henderson missed his third consecutive practice Friday and was listed as doubtful for Sunday's game at Denver.
Henderson, a two-time Pro Bowler who has not missed a game in his six-year career, suffered a concussion last week against Atlanta. He returned to the game later, then had to be helped to the locker room with what team officials called ``heat-related issues.''
If Henderson does not play, backup Rob Meier likely will start alongside Marcus Stroud.
The Jaguars have been banged up along the defensive line in recent weeks, with Stroud (ankle) and ends Paul Spicer (back) and Reggie Hayward (Achilles' tendon) still recovering from injuries.
Jacksonville, though, should have defensive tackle Tony McDaniel available for the first time this season. McDaniel sprained his left knee in the preseason and sat out the first two games. He returned to practice last week and was listed as probable Friday.
Cornerback Brian Williams (ankle) also missed practice Friday but was listed as probable.
Colts' Morris, Clark, Diem questionable for game against Texans
September 21, 2007
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) -Colts linebacker Rob Morris may miss his second straight game because of a strained abdominal muscle.
Morris has been bothered by the injury since suffering it in practice late last week. He was held out of the Colts' 22-20 divisional road win over Tennessee and hasn't practiced since.
Colts coach Tony Dungy said Morris was not expected to play Sunday at Houston, but a final decision on his availability will be made that morning.
Tight end Dallas Clark and offensive tackle Ryan Diem also are listed as questionable with sore necks. Both sat out practice Wednesday and Thursday, but took part in Friday's workout.
Second-year offensive tackle Charlie Johnson, who missed the Colts' first two games due to a sprained left knee, returned to practice Thursday and may play Sunday.
Linebacker Freddy Keiaho, who missed the game against Tennessee after dislocating his right elbow in the season opener with New Orleans, will return to the starting lineup against the Texans.
Week 3 NFL Power Rankings
by Robert Ferringo
Week 1 in the NFL was a cornucopia of cash for square bettors as favorites posted a solid 11-5 record against the spread. But the books came back with a vengeance in the sequel, capitalizing on Overreaction Week when the chalk posted a feeble 4-12 mark against the number in Week 2. So what does that have in store for us in Week 3? Well, my friends, that's why they play the games.
We have three home dogs and three more games with teams favored by eight points or more this week -- both situations that a savvy bettor normally looks to exploit. But the question is whether or not you have the stones to back Buffalo and a 17-point lead or to take Atlanta at home against a shaky Carolina squad. Remember, it's not about being a hero - it's just about winning money.
OK, so that's pretty much the most boring lead I've ever written. Seriously, it's sickening and it's crap. Forgive me. But the truth is that I've spent so much time prying apart all of these games that I haven't had time to manufacture some cheesy storyline. Look, it's Week 3. We still don't know much about any of these teams. Injuries are rampant, no one can run more than 10 plays without fumbling, and the influx of young quarterbacks in the league has sharps making the same face that O.J. must've made when he heard the first siren. It's early, and while a lot of my preseason inclinations were sound there are some kinks to be worked out. In the meantime, sit back, relax, and soak in the knowledge of Doc's Sports Week 3 Power Rankings:
1) New England Patriots (2-0) - It's just a matter of how much, if any, mercy this team will have this weekend against Buffalo. I mentioned it in this week's Ferringo Report but it bears repeating: the Patriots are 73-37-3 ATS since the start of 2001. That's a 66.4-percent clip. The Patriots have won 12 of the last 13 meetings and have held Buffalo to a TD or less in four of the last seven meetings.
2) San Diego Chargers (1-1) - There has been a rush of mid-week money on San Diego, and I think it could force this number up to -6 or higher by kickoff. The Chargers are 16-7-2 ATS on the road and 16-5-2 ATS following a loss. And don't tell me San Diego isn't missing Cam Cameron and Wade Phillips right now.
3) Pittsburgh Steelers (2-0) - Granted, it has been against pretty feeble competition, but the Steelers have dominated both of their opponents this season. Pittsburgh is 13-2-2 against the total in its last 17 home games and 9-3-1 ATS against the NFC since the start of 2004. The Steelers haven't allowed a 100-yard rusher against them in their past 27 games.
4) Indianapolis Colts (2-0) - The Colts are 2-5 ATS in their last seven road games and are 1-3 ATS in their last four against Houston. They do have revenge on their side, losing 27-24 to the Texans last December. The Colts are 9-1 ATS as road favorites with revenge.
5) Chicago Bears (1-1) - I'm guessing the Bears defense will be geared up for T.O. this week. The Bears held perhaps the best two running backs in football - LT and LJ - to a combined 80 total rush yards in two games this year. Also, there are starting to be rumblings the Rex's time may be up if he doesn't start to produce. FINALLY!!!
6) Baltimore Ravens (1-1) - Brian Billick is a stellar 10-2 ATS against a team off a straight up win as an underdog. I think Steve McNair will play this weekend, but after watching him in the opener you have to wonder if that's a good thing.
7) Dallas Cowboys (2-0) - Terrance Newman has been able to do a bit more this week in practice, and the return of Dallas' top corner can only help what has been a putrid defense. The Cowboys are 8-20-3 ATS after a win of more than 14 points, meaning they are constantly overvalued after a blowout.
8) Tennessee Titans (1-1) - You definitely have to worry about a letdown this week after Tennessee's near-upset of the Colts. However, playing on Monday Night Football - with an extra day of preparation and the juice of a primetime audience - should minimize that. Also, teams are 71-49 ATS (59.6 percent) after facing Indianapolis over the last seven years. The Titans are 13-3 ATS in their last 16 games overall and 11-1 ATS as an underdog.
9) Jacksonville Jaguars (1-1) - The Jags have been ranked in the top 15 in rushing defense every year since 1999, including fourth last year. Jacksonville is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine road games but is 10-3-1 ATS as an underdog. The Jags have been allowing 4.9 yards per rush this year while Denver has yielded 5.1.
10) Washington Redskins (1-0) - Losing your top two offensive linemen (Jon Jansen, Randy Thomas) definitely hurts, but it also helps to have experienced veteran guys like Jason Fabini and Todd Wade to step in. In the Skins-Giants series, the favorite is 5-0 ATS and the home team is 5-1 ATS in the last six meetings.
11) Denver Broncos (2-0) - Travis Henry never runs well against Jacksonville. He averages a personal-low of 52.7 yards per game and 2.7 yards per carry against them. Denver is 0-7 ATS in AFC games but is 4-1 ATS against Jacksonville. Also, the underdog is 5-2 ATS in this series. Call me crazy, but I see some points getting put on the board in this one.
12) Houston Texans (2-0) - No Andre Johnson means no chance this week. Johnson has accounted for 60 percent of Houston's passing offense and 24 percent of its total offense. The Texans are 5-2 ATS as an underdog and 5-2 ATS at home lately. And get this: the home team is also 5-2 ATS in this series.
13) Philadelphia Eagles (0-1) - That did not look like an Andy Reid team last Monday Night. Reid is 5-2-1 ATS on a Sunday game following a MNF contest. This team has big questions in its secondary. The Eagles are 39-11 SU when Donovan McNabb completes more than 60 percent of his passes. Also, Brian Westbrook will be limited this weekend with a strained knee. Things are not looking good in Philly.
14) Green Bay Packers (2-0) - Banged up isn't the word for what the Packers are. A whopping 15 players - including six starting defenders - were on the injury report and limited in practice this week. Most will play, but you have to wonder about how physical they can be against the Chargers. Green Bay is 3-9-2 ATS at home and 4-9 ATS following a win.
15) Seattle Seahawks (1-1) - If Seattle can't generate pressure with their front four again this week they are in big, big trouble. Shaun Alexander will again be playing with a protective cast on his left wrist, but there is no word yet on whether or not he'll take his tampon out and run like a power back. Seattle is 9-4-1 ATS at home and 1-6-1 ATS as a favorite.
16) New Orleans Saints (0-2) - The Saints are 1-5 ATS in their last six home games and haven't covered since their Sunday Night blowout win over Dallas. And if you're expecting a boost from the home crowd, know that New Orleans is just 8-20-1 ATS as a home favorite. Maybe last year really was a fluke.
17) San Francisco 49ers (2-0) - Mike Nolan has been getting criticized this week for being too conservative with the offense, so look for him to open it up a bit this week. San Francisco has been so poor because they are just 6-for-25 on third down. The Niners have been outscored 95-23 in the first half of their last five games in the Eastern Time Zone. Also, SF lost Manny Lawson for the year with a torn ACL.
18) Carolina Panthers (1-1) - What a shaky, sketchy team this is. Carolina is just 5-12-4 ATS against Atlanta in the organization's history, but they are 4-1 ATS in their last five meetings. Carolina is 21-9-2 ATS on the road and a stellar 11-3 ATS in domes.
19) Cincinnati Bengals (1-1) - There is a very distinct ceiling on how good this team can be because it simply does not have NFL-caliber linebackers on the roster. Now they've signed retread Dhani Jones to bolster the cause. Cincinnati is 15-5-1 ATS in its last 21 road games.
20) New York Jets (0-2) - You have to be impressed with how New York battled back against the Ravens last week. Now they face Miami, a team the Jets have covered seven consecutive times against. New York is also 7-1-1 against Miami in the Meadowlands.
21) St. Louis Rams (0-2) - The Rams are 3-12 on the road against non-divisional NFC opponents. The Rams are 4-12 ATS as a dog between 3.5 and 10.0. They are also 9-42-2 ATS after failing to rush for 90 yards in their previous game.
22) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-1) - The Bucs are 2-7-1 ATS against the NFC and 3-8-1 ATS overall. The Bucs are 0-8 ATS after a blowout win of 14 or more. The Bucs are 4-0-1 ATS vs. the Rams. The underdog is 4-0-1 ATS in this series.
23) Detroit Lions (2-0) - Before we get too excited about the Detroit defense let's remember that they've faced Josh McCown and Tav Jackson to this point. It will be interesting to see how the Lions o-line handles Philly's blitz-heavy defensive scheme. Jon Kitna was getting crushed last weekend whenever the Vikings blitzed. Detroit is 3-8-1 ATS against the NFC.
24) Kansas City Chiefs (0-2) - Right now the Chiefs have nearly as many punts (12) as they do total points (13). Not good. What is good is getting back All Pro end Jared Allen. What else is good is Kansas City's 11-3 ATS mark at Arrowhead.
25) Oakland Raiders (0-2) - The Raiders are 21-45-1 ATS since he middle of 2002. So, if you had bet $1,000 against the Raiders and on the Patriots every week since 2002 you would be up over $50K. Oakland is 0-6 SU and ATS as a favorite dating back to 2005.
26) Miami Dolphins (0-2) - Zach Thomas has been out of practice this week with migraines and concussion-like symptoms. Also, the Miami secondary is in shambles. At the moment it looks like Mike Lehan will get more work at corner and Travis Daniels will get his first start at safety.
27) New York Giants (0-2) - The good news is that most Yankees fans I know are also Giants fans, so when I get sick of listening to them bust my balls about the Mets' collapse and their late run I just switch the topic to football and bring up their G-Men. You can literally see the blood rush out of their face. It's beautiful.
28) Cleveland Browns (1-1) - Antwan Peek was a steal for this team in the offseason. Houston had given up on him, but now that Willie McGinest is out he's paying big dividends. Cleveland is 3-0 ATS in its last three trips to Oakland, but Charlie Frye was QB for two of them. Don't be surprised to see Oakland squibbing the ball away from suddenly dangerous return man Josh Cribbs.
29) Arizona Cardinals (1-1) - Another thing to consider about this weeks' game in Baltimore is that Ken Whisenhunt and Russ Grimm are used to game planning against the Ravens defense. However, where Seattle couldn't control the line of scrimmage against the Cards, that's something I don't think Baltimore will have trouble with.
30) Minnesota Vikings (1-1) - Is anyone else bothered that the Vikings don't know who their quarterback is this week? Apparently it hasn't fazed bettors, who have pounded the Vikings all week. But I've seen this out of Minnesota before: the Vikings are 7-15 ATS on grass.
31) Buffalo Bills (0-2) - Friction is developing between J.P. Losman and OC Chad Fairchild. Losman wants the playbook opened up and Fairchild wants the plays that are being called to actually be executed. Maybe next week. Losman has one TD and five INT's to go along with his 54.1 rating in three starts against New England.
32) Atlanta Falcons (0-2) - I don't think that what a team that's given up 13 sacks in two games needs is a statue at QB, and that's just what they're getting in Leftwich. Also, the Falcons may be without LT Wayne Gandy (hamstring) meaning they'll be going with an undrafted rookie free agent going against Julius Peppers. Atlanta is -10-1 ATS in their last 12 games as a home dog between 3.5 to 10.0.
docsports.com
Steelers' Spaeth to miss 49ers game with quadriceps injury
September 22, 2007
PITTSBURGH (AP) -Steelers rookie tight end Matt Spaeth will miss Sunday's game against San Francisco after not practicing all week because of a bruised quadriceps.
Spaeth, a third-round draft pick, had a touchdown catch in each of the first two games among his three receptions for 15 yards. He has been playing as the No. 2 tight end behind former first-round draft pick Heath Miller.
Jerame Tuman will replace Spaeth as Miller's primary backup.
Bears' Walker questionable with quad injury
September 22nd, 2007
Chicago, IL (Sports Network) - Chicago Bears defensive tackle Darwin Walker has been added to the injury report with a quadriceps problem and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Walker is in his first year with the Bears, who dealt an undisclosed 2008 draft pick to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for the veteran. The Bills had picked up Walker in a March trade with Philadelphia, but were unable to sign him to a long-term deal.
The Bears then signed Walker to a five-year contract.
In the first two games this season, Walker has six tackles, three solo.
Where the action is: NFL line moves
Covers.com
Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans: +5 to +6 ½
Houston is off to an impressive 2-0 start, but it faces a tough task against the defending Super Bowl champion Colts. The Texans will not have two-time Pro Bowl receiver Andre Johnson on the field today.
“I told everybody to stay up high on this one,” Pete Korner, founder of the Sports Club in Las Vegas, says. “Come Sunday, books don’t want to be rooting for the Texans.”
Korner’s group sent out +6 ½ before learning of Johnson’s injury.
“That just reinforces it. (Johnson) has influence on the line. I mean he’s a big player.”
San Diego Chargers at Green Bay Packers: +4 ½ to +6
Though the Packers are undefeated, and are home this weekend, sports books still have them as underdogs. Korner says Green Bay would be getting even more points if the Chargers hadn’t looked so bad Sunday night against the New England Patriots.
“We originally had +6, but we adjusted to +4 ½ after the Chargers’ performance,” Korner says. “We probably overreacted. I’ve been telling my customers to get to 5. If you’re not there, get there. I don’t like books moving on air, but the number is too low.”
If San Diego is going to cover the spread it will need more from running back LaDainian Tomlinson. The defending league MVP has just 68 rushing yards in two games.
San Francisco 49ers at Pittsburgh Steelers: -8 ½ to –10
Pittsburgh has looked great so far under new coach Mike Tomlin, but the club hasn’t played a quality team. The action suggests the public still likes the Steelers to win easily.
“We sent out –8 ½ and our thinking was the number had to be smaller than last week against Buffalo,” Korner says. “Obviously the bettors like Pittsburgh. It’s not so much an anti-San Francisco sentiment than being more pro-Pittsburgh.”
Pittsburgh has outscored its opponents in the first two weeks of the season, 60-10.
Jacksonville Jaguars' John Henderson might miss game
orlandosentinel.com
Jacksonville kicker Josh Scobee will miss his second game with a leg injury, but Friday's news is who might be joining him on the sideline Sunday against the Broncos at Denver: Pro Bowl defensive tackle John Henderson.
The Jags (1-1) listed Henderson as doubtful following their walk-through practice on Friday. Henderson left Sunday's 13-7 victory against the Atlanta Falcons after a "blow to the head," according to team officials.
He returned to play in the game, but doctors had the club withhold Henderson from any contact practices this week.
The Jags have not used the word "concussion" related to Henderson's injury. They are calling it a head injury.
Scobee, who strained his right quadriceps during pregame warmups for the Sept. 9 season-opener against the Tennessee Titans, is one of two starters ruled out for Sunday. Center Brad Meester still is recovering from preseason ankle surgery. Meester could return for the Oct. 7 game against the Chiefs at Kansas City.
Jags linebacker Clint Ingram was upgraded to probable. He has not played since spraining his ankle in the preseason.
Guard Chris Naeole (back), cornerback Brian Williams (ankle), backup defensive tackle Tony McDaniel (knee), receiver Matt Jones (heel) and backup tight end Greg Estandia (sick) are probable.
Vikings: Taylor questionable, but aims to play
It appears that the Vikings may get Chester Taylor back in action for Week 3. Although he's listed a questionable, he said he should be all right for the game, according to the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "I'm looking forward to playing," he said. "Right now, I'm supposed to be playing so I'll take it from there."
Packers: Morency will not return for Week 3
Although Vernand Morency is listed as doubtful for Week 3, he will not play, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Packers: Jennings likely to make season debut
As expected, Greg Jennings returned to practice on Friday. Although he was limited, the Packers list him as probable for Sunday's contest, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.
Steelers: Bruised quad to sideline Spaeth
Matt Spaeth missed his third consecutive practice on Friday. He's expected to sit out Sunday's game due to his bruised quadriceps, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Raiders: Jordan to play through sore back
Raiders coach Lane Kiffin said that LaMont Jordan is a go for Sunday's game, according to the Contra Costa Times.
Raiders: Burgess to be limited if he plays
It appears that Derrick Burgess might play on Sunday. However, he won't be at full speed due to his sore right calf, according to the Contra Costa Times.
Giants: Burress to be game-time decision
Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress was limited in practice on Friday due to a sprained right ankle. "He didn't complete the full practice, but he did a few things and we will see. It is going to be one of those deals depending on how he feels on game day," head coach Tom Coughlin tells the team's official web site. Burress did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday.
Chargers' Olivea questionable for Week 3
September 21, 2007
Associated Press
SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Chargers right tackle Shane Olivea practiced on Friday for the first time since straining his back in a loss to the Patriots, but it appears he'll miss Sunday's game at the Green Bay Packers.
Olivea moved stiffly and said he'd have to talk his way into the lineup by assuring coach Norv Turner and offensive line coach Jack Henry he is OK. Olivea was listed as questionable on the injury report.
"If it was up to me, I would play," Olivea said. "But I have to convince Jack and Norv."
If Olivea can't go, the Chargers would replace him with either first-year pro Jeromey Clary or veteran Roman Oben. It appears Clary has the edge, and it would mark his first NFL start. Clary's starting debut would come against Green Bay left defensive end Aaron Kampman, who led the NFC last year with 151/2 sacks.
It was Clary who replaced Olivea when he went down early in the New England game. The results were mixed, but possibly good enough to get the call Sunday -- depending on Olivea's health.
"I thought he played pretty well," Turner said of Clary, who was on the Chargers' practice squad in 2006.
Inside linebacker Matt Wilhelm won't play because of a strained calf, the same injury that sidelined him for three of four exhibition games. Wilhelm was jogging on it Friday without a limp.
With Wilhelm out, second-year pro Tim Dobbins will make his first NFL start. Dobbins also played the majority of the game in New England but was often out of position and ineffective.
Three other players, defensive tackle Jamal Williams (elbow), safety Clinton Hart (hamstring) and inside linebacker Stephen Cooper (neck) all practiced Friday and were declared fit for Sunday's game.
The Chargers will try to rebound from their embarrassing 38-14 loss at New England. Counting last season's playoff defeat by New England, it was the second loss in three games for the Chargers, who beat Chicago 14-3 in the opener.
Training Room Report
Arizona vs. Baltimore
Ravens
Mark Clayton (WR)—Clayton played briefly against the Jets in week two, making one catch. Coach Billick has indicated he will play Sunday against Arizona.
Jonathan Ogden (OT)—Ogden did not play Sunday against the Jets. Coach Billick is hopeful he can resume practice by Wednesday and is listed as questionable for Sunday.
Steve McNair (QB)—McNair did not play in the Ravens’ win over New York in week two, and is currently listed as questionable. The expectation is that he will resume his starting role this coming Sunday.
Trevor Pryce (DE)—Pryce broke his left wrist in the Jets game. He has had surgery to repair it and is expected to miss the next three to five games.
Ray Lewis (LB)—Lewis played well against New York and is listed as probable for the Cardinals game.
Demetrius Williams (WR)—Williams suffered a bruised arm Sunday and will play this week.
Cardinals
Bryant Johnson (WR)—Johnson, who has been hampered with an injured hamstring, made two catches for twenty-three yards this past Sunday. He is listed as probable and expected to face the Ravens.
St. Louis vs. Tampa Bay
Rams
Marc Bulger (QB) – According to STLToday.com, Bulger was battling rib and knee soreness after the week two loss to San Francisco. Don’t expect this to keep Bulger out of week three.
Buccaneers
Cadillac Williams (RB) – Despite a rib injury, Williams was able to start and play effectively against the Saints. Expect the Cadillac to be rolling out of the garage for week three’s matchup against the Rams.
Brian Kelly (CB) – Kelly was inactive for Sunday’s game against New Orleans and he will likely be questionable for this week’s game.
Chris Simms (QB) – Simms was inactive for week two action and the Bucs show no signs of activating him anytime soon.
San Francisco vs. Pittsburgh
49ers
Frank Gore (RB) – During week two action, Gore was spotted on the sidelines getting examined for a knee injury by the trainer. However, the 49ers do not believe it is serious and fantasy owners should feel comfortable with him in the lineup this week.
Steelers
James Harrison (LB) – In a scary moment at the end of the first half against the Bills, Harrison was carted off the field, but eventually returned to the sidelines. Seeing Harrison walk onto the field was great news for the Steelers, but it is unknown if he can play this Sunday.
Detroit vs. Philadelphia
Eagles
L. J. Smith (TE)—Smith was activated for Monday’s game against Washington and should be able to play in week three, despite his groin injury.
Greg Lewis (WR)—Despite a hip injury, Lewis is listed as active for the Redskins game and should be available for week three.
Jevon Kearse (DE)—Kearse is listed as active for the Redskins showdown, even with his shoulder injury. He will be available for week three.
Lions
Jon Kitna (QB)—Kitna is believed to have suffered a mild concussion in Sunday’s victory. He didn’t show any residue symptoms Monday, nor experience any headaches. He is expected to play this weekend against the Eagles.
Kevin Jones (RB)—Jones did not play in weeks one or two with a foot injury. He is, however, listed as probable to take on the Eagles this weekend. It’ll be interesting to see how effective he can be.
Dan Campbell (TE)—Campbell was scheduled to undergo an MRI on his injured elbow Monday. He is currently listed as probable for week three.
T.J. Duckett (RB)—Duckett did not play Sunday and is currently listed as questionable for further action in week three.
Miami vs. N.Y. Jets
Dolphins
No injuries reported from Sunday’s game against the Cowboys.
Jets
Chad Pennington (QB) – Pennington was active, but did not start in week two’s contest against the Ravens. Pennington should be able to start, but we’ll call him questionable at this point.
Jerricho Cotchery (WR) – Reports indicate Cotchery suffered a shoulder injury against the Ravens, but nothing has been released on how severe it is. Since we haven’t heard anything else, we expect this receiver to start on Sunday.
Buffalo vs. New England
Patriots
Jarvis Green (DL)—Hasn’t played this season with shoulder problems, although he is involved in limited practice. Patriots have obviously not missed him.
Richard Seymour (DL)—Seymour is currently on the physically unable to perform list with knee injuries. It is questionable if he will play this season at all. The Patriots miss him a little more than Green.
Bills
Doesn’t really matter. They have no shot against the Patriots. For those who still care:
Terrence McGee (CB)—McGee bruised his ribs Sunday against the Steelers and is listed as probable for the Patriots game. He probably wishes he had been hurt a little more so he wouldn’t have to get embarrassed by Moss.
Josh Reed (WR)—Reed missed Sunday’s game with a hip contusion. He is listed as questionable at best for this week’s division match-up. It won’t help Losman to lose a semi-viable target in this game.
Coy Wire (S)—Wire blew out his MCL Sunday and is out indefinitely.
Ashton Youboty (CB) – Youboty left Sunday’s game with an ankle injury and his status for next week’s game is in doubt.
Minnesota vs. Kansas City
Vikings
Tarvaris Jackson (QB) – Jackson left Sunday’s overtime game against the Lions with a groin injury and his status for Sunday’s game against the Chiefs is up in the air. Kelly Holcomb is expected to start if Jackson cannot go.
Chester Taylor (RB) – Taylor (hip) did not play in last week’s game against the Lions. We’ll update his status for week three later this week.
Robert Ferguson(WR)—Ferguson, continuing his streak of injuries with ankle problems, did play in week two against Detroit. He made three catches for twenty-nine yards. He is probable for week three.
Chiefs
Eddie Kennison (WR)—Kennison will miss the Vikings game Sunday due to a hamstring injury. Coach Herm Edwards anticipates Kennison returning for week four.
Patrick Surtain (CB)—Surtain registered four tackles in Sunday’s loss to the Bears. He is listed as probable for the upcoming week.
Jon McGraw (S)—McGraw has missed the first two games of the season with hamstring injuries. He has returned to limited practice, but is listed as questionable at this point.
Keyaron Fox (LB)—Fox played Sunday against the Bears, despite back problems, registering two tackles. He is listed as probable for Sunday.
Indianapolis vs. Houston
Colts
Rob Morris (LB) – Morris was forced to miss Sunday’s game against the Titans due to an abdominal strain. Morris will likely be questionable for this week’s game against the Texans.
Freddy Keiaho (LB) – Keiaho was inactive for the victory against the Titans due to a dislocated elbow. The Colts are uncertain about his status for week three.
Texans
Andre Johnson (WR) – In what might be the biggest injury from week two action, the Texans could be without their star receiver for a couple of weeks. Johnson suffered a sprained knee against the Panthers and although a MRI apparently showed nothing serious, he will likely be out at least Sunday and possibly a couple of other games.
Travis Johnson (DT) – Johnson was inactive for the week two contest against Carolina and his status for this week’s game has not been updated.
San Diego vs. Green Bay
Chargers
Jamal Williams (DT) – Williams suffered an elbow injury against New England and tried to continue with a brace, but was unable to finish the game.
Shane Olivea (OT) – Olivea left Sunday night’s game against the Patriots with an leg injury and had to be carted off the field.
Matt Wilhelm (LB) – Wilhelm dealt with a calf injury against the Patriots and his status for next week is uncertain.
Eric Parker (WR) – Parker is out for the first couple of weeks of the 2007 season, as he is battling a toe injury. Parker could miss around five to six games and while he is out, you can upgrade rookie Craig Davis.
Packers
Tony Palmer (G) – The Packers expect Palmer to miss the rest of the year with a fractured bone in his neck.
Vernand Morency (RB) – Morency was inactive for the second straight week against the Giants, but the Packers think he will be able to practice on Wednesday. However, Morency is losing ground to rookies Brandon Jackson and DeShawn Wynn.
Greg Jennings (WR) – Jennings was also inactive for the second straight week and rookie James Jones continues to impress. Jennings’ status for week three is uncertain and he could be another gametime decision.
Cincinnati vs. Seattle
Bengals
Shayne Graham (K)—Graham was perfect in Cincinnati’s ridiculous loss to Cleveland Sunday. He made one field goal attempt and was six for six on extra-point tries. He will play Sunday against Seattle.
Levi Jones (OT)—Jones hasn’t played the first two games this season, although he has continually been listed as probable. No one knows what’s going on with Jones, which is par for the course in Cincinnati.
T. J. Houshmandzadeh (WR)—T. J. made eight catches, two for touchdowns, for sixty-nine yards Sunday. His knee may not be one hundred percent, but he is close and will play in week three.
Antonio Chatman (WR)—Chatman injured his hamstring in the Sunday debacle in Cleveland, but is listed as probable this week.
Ahmad Brooks (LB)—Brooks left the Browns game with an injured groin. He is listed as questionable at this time for the Seahawk contest. That is bad news for the Bengals, as they are very thin at linebacker and not very strong with Brooks, much less without him.
Johnathan Joseph (CB) – Joseph will undergo a MRI on his injured wrist on Monday. The Bengals struggled to stop the Browns – imagine how bad their defense could be without Joseph.
Seahawks
Maurice Morris (RB)—Morris did not play Sunday with a sore hip. He is still listed as questionable and may not play this week against the Bengals.
Shaun Alexander (RB)—Alexander, wearing a cast-like device on his left thumb and wrist, had seventy yards on eighteen carries this past week. He is listed as probable against the Bengals, but is far from the Alexander of 2004 and 2005. He will sit on many fantasy benches for a while.
Cleveland vs. Oakland
Browns
Willie McGinest (LB) – McGinest missed week one with a back injury and is likely out for week three.
Brodney Pool (S) – Pool suffered a slight concussion against the Bengals and his status will be monitored throughout the week.
Raiders
Josh McCown (QB) – Despite injuries to his hand and ankle, McCown played and nearly led the Raiders to victory over the Broncos in week two. Although his performance wasn’t overwhelming, the Raiders will stick with him as their starter for week three action.
Derrick Burgess (DE) – Burgess reportedly suffered a calf injury in Sunday’s game against the Broncos. The Raiders will likely update his injury status on Wednesday.
Jacksonville vs. Denver
Jaguars
Khalif Barnes (OT) and Maurice Drew-Jones (RB)—Both received X-rays after the victory over the Falcons Sunday for ‘unspecified injuries’. They are both listed as probable at this point, although the ‘unspecified injuries’ may cause a slight doubt as to the availability of either.
Gerald Sensabaugh (S)—Sensabaugh left Sunday’s game after aggravating a shoulder injury. He is listed as questionable at best for the Broncos game and is not likely to play.
Broncos
Domonique Foxworth (CB)—Foxworth did not play Sunday against the Raiders due to his ankle and has not practiced much the last few weeks. He is questionable for the Jaguars game and is not likely to play.
Travis Henry (RB)—Henry injured his ankle in the victory over Oakland, but is listed as probable for the week three match-up with the Jaguars.
Carolina vs. Atlanta
Panthers
Dante Wesley (S) – Wesley left Sunday’s contest against the Texans with a collarbone injury and he could be done for the rest of the year.
Falcons
Wayne Gandy (OT) – Several reports indicated Gandy left Sunday’s game early due to a hamstring injury and he could be questionable for the Falcons week three matchup against Carolina.
Laurent Robinson (WR) – The Falcons declared Robinson as one of their inactives for week two, as he is battling a hamstring injury. Although the Falcon offense has been pretty poor, Robinson is a promising player. His status for week three will be updated later in the week.
N.Y. Giants vs. Washington
Giants
Eli Manning (QB) – Even though Manning was expected to miss a couple of weeks with a shoulder injury, the quarterback was able to go on Sunday and didn’t suffer any setbacks. Manning will be in the Giants lineup against the Redskins.
Plaxico Burress (WR) – The New York Daily News reports Burress is expected to play against the Redskins next Sunday, even though he suffered an ankle injury against the Packers. Watch Burress’ status closely throughout the week.
Steve Smith (WR) – Smith suffered a fractured shoulder blade against the Packers and will be out a couple of weeks.
Ahmad Bradshaw (RB) – The New York Daily News is reporting Bradshaw was in a sling due to an injured elbow after Sunday’s game against the Packers. Bradshaw’s status for the Redskins will be updated later this week.
Redskins
Randy Thomas (G) – The Redskins offensive line didn’t get any better on Monday night, as Thomas suffered a torn triceps in his arm. Thomas may end up missing the rest of the year – which would mean two starters from the offensive line would be out for the remainder of this season.
Dallas vs. Chicago
Bears
Muhsin Muhammad (WR)—The star Bears receiver had only one catch for seven yards against the Chiefs, but is listed as probable to play this week against the Cowboys as he recoups from an ankle injury.
Brian Urlacher (LB)—Urlacher has experience soreness in his back. He still registered nine total tackles last week against the Chiefs and is listed as probable for the Cowboys contest.
Dusty Dvoracek (DT)—Dvorcek has been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Mike Brown (S)—Brown has likewise been placed on injury reserve for a torn ACL.
Cowboys
Terry Glenn (WR)—Glenn is out with knee injuries and underwent surgery to remove cartilage, but hopes to be able to return in four to six weeks.
Patrick Crayton (WR)—Crayton, who didn’t register any catches in limited time against the Dolphins, suffered a dislocated pinky finger early in that game. He is listed as probable at this time.
Terence Newman (CB)—Newman did not play in week two and is listed as questionable for this week’s match-up due to plantar fascitis.
Jason Ferguson (DT)—Ferguson is out for the season with a torn biceps.
Greg Ellis (LB)—Ellis is still listed as out with the foot injury that threatens his career.
Tennessee vs. New Orleans
Saints
Deuce McAllister (RB)—McAllister suffered a swollen left eye in Sunday’s loss to Tampa Bay. He is expected to be ok and able to play in week three’s match-up with the Titans.
Titans
Casey Cramer (TE)—Cramer has missed the first two games of the season with knee problems. He has resumed practicing on a limited basis and is questionable at best for week three against the Saints.
profantasysports.com
Injury sidelines Lions starting tight end Campbell for '07 season
ESPN.com
The Detroit Lions have placed starting tight end Dan Campbell, who sustained an elbow injury in last Sunday's overtime victory against the Minnesota Vikings, on injured reserve, ending his 2007 season.
A ninth-year veteran, Campbell is regarded as one of the best, albeit underrated, blocking tight ends in the league, and the Detroit running game will suffer far more than the passing attack in his absence. Second-year player Sean McHugh will take over as the starter.
The Lions elevated Rudy Sylvan, a rookie from Ohio University, from the practice squad to the active roster to fill Campbell's spot.
Campbell, 31, signed a five-year deal with the Lions as an unrestricted free agent in March 2006, and appeared in all 16 games last year, with 11 starts. Although offensive coordinator Mike Martz rarely uses the tight end in his passing scheme, Campbell still had one of the best statistical seasons of his NFL tenure, with 21 catches for 308 yards and a career-high four touchdown receptions.
The former Texas A&M standout started in the first game this season. In the second game, Detroit began the contest in a three-wide receiver formation, so Campbell was not in the starting lineup. In the two games, he had one catch for one yard.
For his career, Campbell has 90 receptions for 913 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Campbell entered the league as a third-round choice of the New York Giants in the 1999 draft. He played four seasons in New York (1999-2002), then signed with Dallas as an unrestricted free agent in 2003. After two seasons with the Cowboys, he joined the Lions.
He has appeared in 112 games, including 74 as a starter.