Sunday Football 11 - 11

All signs point to Bollinger starting at QB

The Vikings carried on with their now-typical personnel intrigue Friday at Winter Park, but even hints of an unusual roster move left all signs pointing to quarterback Brooks Bollinger starting Sunday at Green Bay.

As it stood Friday evening, the Vikings were listing two quarterbacks as questionable on their injury report while a third seemed in danger of release. Tarvaris Jackson (concussion) and Kelly Holcomb (neck) both took part in a portion of practice, and their progress might make emergency quarterback Koy Detmer expendable as early as today.

Coach Brad Childress, in fact, told reporters Friday afternoon that the team was considering a roster move that "perhaps" involved a quarterback. No changes were announced, but it's possible one could come before the team departs this afternoon for Green Bay.

Despite the apparent subterfuge, there were the strongest of internal indications that Bollinger would start against the Packers. Childress officially termed it a gametime decision, but he also refused to give Jackson a clean bill of health.

Asked if Jackson had suffered any aftereffects of the concussion this week in practice, Childress said, "Not terrible ones, no."

Bollinger chose his words carefully, saying he was "just trying to prepare as always for every possible situation."

Bollinger and Jackson have split repetitions in practice, while Detmer stood by in case neither Jackson nor Holcomb could serve as a backup to Bollinger. Childress said Holcomb has "really improved this week," meaning it is possible he could play Sunday if needed.

If they release Detmer today, the Vikings would still be obligated to pay him $42,352.94 -- 1/17th of a 10-year veteran's salary. One possible roster replacement for him is cornerback Ronyell Whitaker, whom the Vikings waived Tuesday to make room for Detmer.

Injury report

In addition to Jackson and Holcomb, the Vikings listed cornerback Antoine Winfield (hamstring), defensive end Ray Edwards (foot) and wide receiver Sidney Rice (hamstring) as questionable for Sunday's game.

Winfield tested his hamstring during practice Friday but stopped short of declaring himself ready to play Sunday.

"It feels better," Winfield said. But asked if his status will remain uncertain until Sunday morning, he said: "I can see it coming down to that. Today, it felt pretty good warming up. ... Haven't had any problems. No setbacks."

All's well ...

Jackson has received plenty of good-natured ribbing this week from teammates who, in retrospect, were amused by the awkward position in which he fell, and the strange guttural noises he produced immediately after the injury.

"You've got to have a sense of humor," Jackson said, "because the guys are joking with me saying I was sleeping on the field, snoring. It is funny now because I'm OK. But I know at the time it wasn't funny, especially for the trainers as they saw what kind of situation I was in."

Jackson said he doesn't normally snore when he sleeps. "Not unless I am real tired," he said. "So I guess I was."

www.startribune.com

Thomas out with migraines

Dolphins middle linebacker Zach Thomas will not play in Sunday's game against Buffalo, coach Cam Cameron announced Friday. Thomas has been battling migraine headaches and did not receive medical clearance to play. He was on the field but didn't practice Friday.

"It is frustrating, very frustrating," Thomas said. "I can't get any treatment. All I can do is wait for the headaches to go away, and waiting isn't something that I'm good at."

Thomas participated in full-contact practice Thursday and expected to play, but Cameron said things changed Friday.

"He has been ruled out [by the medical staff]," Cameron said. "It is ongoing. He had a good practice [Thursday]. We are finding out in these situations that one day isn't always indicative of the next day. He came in [Friday morning], and things weren't quite the same."

Channing Crowder, the regular weakside linebacker, will move to the middle, and Derrick Pope will take Crowder's place.

"[Channing] played outstanding in London," Cameron said. "Equally important to his physical play was his leadership and command of the defense."

Crowder, who has filled for Thomas the past two seasons, refuses to say that he is replacing him.

"The guy has been to seven Pro Bowls, and I haven't been to one," Crowder said. "You don't replace Zach Thomas. It hurts to see him going through this."

It is the second game that Thomas has missed since the Dolphins lost to New England on Oct. 21. After that game, Thomas and his wife were rear-ended on the Florida Turnpike as they drove home.

Thomas went to Pittsburgh to see a specialist and was diagnosed with whiplash. He has had the headaches since then. He suffered a concussion against Dallas on Sept. 16 and missed two games.

"I've never had a migraine, but I remember Shawne Merriman [San Diego linebacker] used to have some," Cameron said. "When you see how debilitating they can be, it doesn't look like it is a lot of fun. It can knock people out."

Cameron wouldn't get into whether Thomas' day-to-day situation might be something more serious.

"We take it this week and try not to get ahead of ourselves and just see how it plays out," Cameron said.

www.sun-sentinel.com

Grossman may snap to it on Sunday

Bigger workload in practice could mean short leash for Griese

Bears fans might have written off Rex Grossman when he was benched after his Week 3 start against the Cowboys.

It doesn't appear coach Lovie Smith has.

In a sign that Smith likely won't watch idly if Brian Griese struggles Sunday against the Raiders, the Bears increased Grossman's work in practice this week from 30 percent of the snaps to 40 percent, a team source confirmed Friday.

The off week allowed an extra practice Monday that meant Grossman could get more work without affecting Griese as much as a normal week.

So this doesn't necessarily mean the Bears have lost faith in Griese as a starter capable of turning around their season.

It merely means the coaching staff recognizes the Bears' desperate state at 3-5 and will be prepared if Griese turns the ball over with the frequency he did in a four-interception game against the Lions.

Grossman's quick-strike ability and streakiness might offer the Bears an alternative if they fall behind the Raiders.

Grossman, whose contract runs out at the end of this season, hasn't played since Sept. 23, when he was picked off three times in a 34-10 loss to Dallas. Griese has completed 61 percent of his passes for 1,411 yards, nine TDs and 10 interceptions in five games since replacing Grossman but has shown the same penchant for turning the ball over in bunches.

Kyle Orton, the QB the Bears might want to see in game action if they are eliminated from the playoffs, remains No. 3.

www.chicagotribune.com

Where to find the edge in Sunday’s games
Covers.com

The following is a selection of Sunday games where mismatches in key areas of the field are likely have a major impact on the outcome.

Colts running back Joseph Addai vs. Chargers’ rush defense

Colts running back Joseph Addai is third in the league in rushing yards (704) and was arguably his team’s best player in last Sunday’s loss to the Patriots. He should produce a similar performance this week against a Chargers defense allowing 126.2 yards per game on the ground.

Addai was a constant thorn in New England’s side, rushing for 112 yards on 26 carries. He also caught five passes for 114 yards, including a 73-yard touchdown just before halftime. The second-year player cut through the Pats’ fourth-ranked defense like a hot knife through butter – a sight the Chargers will not have enjoyed watching.

San Diego’s frailties on the ground were exposed in ruthless fashion by Vikings’ RB Adrian Peterson last Sunday. He set an NFL record with 296 rushing yards in Minnesota’s 35-17 win while also tallying three touchdowns. Addai will have enjoyed watching that.

Indianapolis is a 3 ½-point road favorite in this contest.

Titans’ turnovers gained vs. Jaguars’ turnovers lost

The Jaguars are susceptible to turnovers without starting quarterback David Garrard. His backup, Gray Quinn, has already thrown five picks in five games and the Titans’ defense could make that number worse this week.

Quinn is not the only culprit on his team. Jacksonville has 12 turnovers on the season, five interceptions from Gray, and seven lost fumbles by various members of the offense.

Tennessee, meanwhile, is one of the best teams in the league at forcing opponents into mistakes and claiming the ball back. The Titans have recovered 20 turnovers this season – 13 interceptions and seven fumbles. Veteran defensive end Paul Spicer is responsible for three of those fumble recoveries.

Oddsmakers have the Titans listed as 4-point favorites with the total set at 35.

Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald vs. Lions’ pass defense

Larry Fitzgerald has caught 51 passes for 740 yards this season to rank third in the league in receiving. A Detroit Lions defense that is allowing 258 yards per game in the air is unlikely to contain Fitzgerald – a 233-pound, 6-foot-2 beast with limitless speed.

Granted, Fitzgerald hasn’t been at his best in the last three games. Yet he still notched close to 100 receiving yards in each of them. Fitzgerald didn’t get into the end zone over that stretch. Sunday’s game is a good opportunity to change that.

The Lions have looked solid in almost every area of the field on their current three-game winning streak, except for one. Their pass defense is struggling badly, allowing a combined 806 yards in the air over that stretch.

Veteran Arizona quarterback Kurt Warner will be allowed to cut loose against that pass ‘D’ on Sunday and that should mean big numbers for Fitzgerald. The Cards are listed as 1-point home favorites.

Packers’ pass offense vs. Vikings’ pass defense

The Packers are putting up over 290 yards per game behind a resurgent Brett Favre. That’s second only to the New England Patriots and could mean trouble for a Vikings’ pass offense that is second from bottom in the league.

Favre is second in the NFL in passing yards this season (2,406) and has thrown for 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He is linking up well with receivers Greg Jennings and Donald Driver. That duo alone has combined for 993 yards and eight touchdowns in eight games.

Minnesota’s pass defense, which is giving up 245.6 yards per contests, will struggle to contain the Packers’ potent offense. The Vikes’ ‘D’ has surrendered a combined 768 yards and three touchdowns in its last three games. It also allowed Favre to throw for 344 yards and two TDs the last time the teams played – a 23-16 win for Green Bay at the end of September.

Green Bay is a 6-point home favorite in this clash.

Cowboys’ red zone offense vs. Giants’ red zone defense

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the best teams in the NFL at scoring touchdowns from inside the red zone, managing to get the ball into the end zone 19 times on 32 attempts. This week they face a Giants defense that has struggled to stop opponents inside its own 20-yard line.

The Cowboys’ red zone success is largely down to the powerful rushing duo of Marion Barber and Julius Jones. The two running backs have combined for 1,198 yards and nine touchdowns this season, and are next to impossible to stop when in sight of the end zone.

The Giants are unlikely to be the team to halt Barber and Jones. New York has allowed opponents to score 13 TDs in 19 visits to the red zone – a 68 percent average that is currently the highest in the league.

The Cowboys are 1 ½-point favorites on the road.

Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger vs. Brown’s pass defense

Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger has really hit his stride in the past two games. He’ll look to continue his offensive charge on Sunday when he faces the worst pass defense in the NFL.

Roethlisberger heads into Week 10 as the second-most efficient QB in the league, with a 111.9 passer rating. He has thrown for 1,742 yards and 20 touchdowns this season, with only six interceptions. In the past two games alone, he has thrown for 439 yards and seven touchdowns in impressive wins over Cincinnati and Baltimore.

Meanwhile the Browns are allowing a league-worst 276.6 yards per game in the air. They have only managed six sacks on the season (also the worst in the NFL) and have conceded more than 300 passing yards in two straight games.

The Steelers are listed as a 10-point home favorite.

Jacksonville (5-3, 4-4 ATS) at Tennessee (6-2, 5-2-1 ATS)

The Jaguars travel to LP Field for a key AFC South matchup against the Titans, who are looking to sweep the season series.

Jacksonville was dealt a 41-24 loss at New Orleans as a 3½-point road underdog last week. With starting QB David Garrard (ankle) out, the Jaguars again had to go with backup Quinn Gray at QB, and his two TDs were offset by three INTs, including one for a TD. Garrard returned to practice this week but is listed as questionable, while the Jags will definitely be without DT Marcus Stroud, who was suspended this week for four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

Tennessee topped Carolina 20-7 as a four-point home chalk. QB Vince Young’s numbers were pedestrian once again (14 of 23, 110 yards, 2 INTs), but he ran for a TD and pushed the Titans to 17-4-1 ATS in their last 22 games.

The Jaguars are 5-8 SU and ATS on their last 13 road trips, including a 24-17 loss at Tennessee last year as a 3½-point pup. However, they are 7-2-1 ATS in their last 10 as a road ‘dog in AFC South games.

The Titans, who won at Jacksonville 13-10 as a 7½-point ‘dog in the season opener, are 5-12 ATS in their last 17 as a divisional home favorite.

The straight-up winner is an astounding 23-1 ATS in Jacksonville’s last 24 games, including 7-1 ATS this season. The straight-up winner is also 7-2-1 ATS in this series.

The under is 6-1-1 for Tennessee this season, including 4-0 at home.

ATS ADVANTAGE: JACKSONVILLE and UNDER

Denver (3-5, 1-7 ATS) at Kansas City (4-4, 4-3-1 ATS)

The free-falling Broncos travel to Arrowhead Stadium for an AFC West battle against the Chiefs.

Denver got embarrassed at Detroit last week, falling 44-7 as a three-point road pup. QB Jay Cutler (bruised leg) was knocked out of the game early, and the rout ensued from there. Cutler is probable to return against the Chiefs, but he may once again be without two key weapons, as WR Javon Walker (knee) and RB Travis Henry (knee) are questionable.

Kansas City last week became the latest victim of the Brett Favre revival, losing to Green Bay 33-22 as a 2½-point home favorite. The Chiefs also lost star RB Larry Johnson to a right-foot injury that will definitely sideline him today and perhaps for much longer.

The Broncos are 2-14 ATS in their last 16 games overall and are 1-6 ATS on the road. Also, coach Mike Shanahan is 1-7 SU, 1-6-1 ATS in his last eight trips to Arrowhead.

Despite last week’s loss, the Chiefs are 15-5 (13-5-1 ATS) in their last 20 home games. Kansas City split last year’s meetings with Denver, winning at home and losing on the road while covering the number both times.

The straight-up winner is 20-4-1 ATS in Kansas City’s last 25 games and 12-3 ATS in Denver’s last 15 starts. The straight-up winner is also 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 in this series.

ATS ADVANTAGE: KANSAS CITY

Buffalo (4-4, 6-2 ATS) at Miami (0-8, 2-4-2 ATS)

The resurgent Bills will look to add to Miami’s misery in an AFC East matchup at Dolphin Stadium.

Buffalo dropped Cincinnati 33-21 last week as a one-point home pup. QB J.P. Losman, after getting benched for a couple of weeks before rookieTrent Edwards got hurt, seems to be finding his form, as he went 24 of 34 for 295 yards with a TD and an INT in the victory. Losman is expected to start today.

Miami, which is coming off a bye at the midway point of its dismal season, lost to the New York Giants 13-10 in Week 8, but covered as a 10-point “home” underdog in rainy London. There is pressure on coach Cam Cameron to play rookie QB John Beck, but Cleo Lemon will remain the starter this week.

The Bills are on a 5-0 ATS run, going 4-1 SU in those contests, and coach Dick Jauron is 13-4 ATS dating to last season. In this series, Buffalo is 5-1 SU, 6-0 ATS in the last six meetings.

The Dolphins are a dismal 3-16-1 ATS in their last 20 against AFC East rivals, and they are 10-26 ATS in their last 36 home starts.

The straight-up winner is 19-5 ATS in Buffalo’s last 24 games dating to the 2006 season opener, and the straight-up winner is 9-1 ATS in the last 10 in this series.

ATS ADVANTAGE: BUFFALO

Cleveland (5-3, 6-2 ATS) at Pittsburgh (6-2 SU and ATS)

The Browns hope to continue their surprising run in a key AFC North test against the Steelers at Heinz Field.

Cleveland held off Seattle 33-30 in overtime as a one-point home chalk last week, its third consecutive SU and ATS win. QB Derek Anderson (29 of 48, 364 yards, 1 INT) failed to throw a scoring pass, but got the Browns in position for four short Jamal Lewis TD runs.

Pittsburgh took advantage of four first-half turnovers to rout Baltimore 38-7 as a 9½-point home favorite on Monday night. QB Ben Roethlisberger had five first-half TD passes, running his TD-to-INT ratio to 20-6.

The Browns are on 4-1 SU and ATS runs. However, they are 2-7 ATS in their last nine on the road.

The Steelers routed the Browns 34-7 on the road in the season opener as a 4½-point favorite. Mike Tomlin’s squad is on a 10-3 SU and ATS run going back to last year, with the straight-up winner covering the pointspread in all 13 contests. During this run, nine of Pittsburgh’s 10 wins have come by double digits.

The straight-up winner is 13-2-1 ATS in the Browns’ last 16 games, and the straight-up winner is 8-1-1 ATS in the last 10 in this series.

The over is 5-0 in the last five meetings overall and 4-0 in the last four clashes in Pittsburgh.

ATS ADVANTAGE: PITTSBURGH and OVER

St. Louis (0-8, 1-7 ATS) at New Orleans (4-4, 3-5 ATS)

The Rams, perhaps a bit healthier coming off a bye week, travel to the Superdome to face the red-hot Saints, who are looking to extend a four-game winning streak.

St. Louis lost to Cleveland 27-20 as a three-point home pup two weeks ago. Star RB Steven Jackson, who helped the Rams get out to a 14-0 lead against the Browns before exiting in the first half with back spasms, should be ready to go in this one.

New Orleans, which started 0-4 SU and ATS, continued its resurgence by trouncing Jacksonville last Sunday 41-24, easily cashing as a 3½-point home chalk. QB Drew Brees threw his arm off, going 35 of 49 for 445 yards and three TDs. After throwing nine INTs in the first four games, he has just one during the team’s four-game winning streak.

The Rams are 3-12 ATS as non-division road ‘dogs, However, the Saints are on ATS skids of 1-3 at home this season, 2-9 as a home favorite and 3-8 in their last 11 overall.

The straight-up winner is 12-1 ATS in St. Louis’ last 13 games and 18-1 ATS in New Orleans’ last 19 games.

ATS ADVANTAGE: ST. LOUIS

Atlanta (2-6, 4-4 ATS) at Carolina (4-4 SU and ATS)

The Falcons head to Bank of America Stadium to face the ailing Panthers in an NFC South matchup.

Atlanta notched its second win of the season last week by holding off San Francisco 20-16 as a three-point home favorite. QB Joey Harrington (138 passing yards, 1 INT) remains pedestrian, but a solid performance from RB Warrick Dunn (100 yards on 27 carries, one TD) and four 49ers turnovers aided the Falcons.

Carolina and its banged-up QB corps lost to Tennessee 20-7 as a four-point road ‘dog. David Carr suffered a concussion against the Titans and is out for this game. Meanwhile, the soon-to-be 44-year-old Vinny Testaverde is still battling an Achilles’ injury, but is expected to start. However, if Testaverde can’t go, the Panthers will give the ball to fourth-string rookie QB Matt Moore.

The Falcons are in 2-5-1 ATS slump as a division pup, but they’ve actually covered their last three road games this season and are 4-1 ATS in their last five overall.

The Panthers, who beat Atlanta 27-20 on the road in Week 3 as a four-point road chalk, are 0-3 SU and ATS at home this season. But they are on positive ATS runs of 6-1 against the NFC and 5-1 against the NFC South.

The straight-up winner has covered the spread in all eight of Carolina’s games this year and is 19-0-1 in the Panthers’ last 20 starts. In this series, the straight-up winner is on a 9-0-1 ATS run.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CAROLINA

Philadelphia (3-5 ATS) at Washington (5-3, 2-4-2 ATS)

The struggling Eagles will try to gain some ground in the strong NFC East when they travel to FedEx Field to face the Redskins.

Philadelphia was hardly competitive in Sunday night’s 38-17 loss to Dallas as a three-point home underdog. QB Donovan McNabb put the ball up 46 times, but had only one TD and two INTs to show for it, and he also lost a fumble to account for all three Eagles turnovers.

Washington rallied past the woeful Jets 23-20 in overtime, failing to cover as a 3½-point favorite. QB Jason Campbell continued his lackluster season (12 of 23, 142 yards, 1 INT), but RB Clinton Portis made up for it with 36 carries for a season-high 196 rushing yards and a TD. It was Portis’ first 100-yard effort of the season.

The Eagles are 0-3 SU and ATS against the NFC East this season, including a 20-12 home loss to Washington in Week 2 as a 6½-point chalk.

The Redskins are 4-10 ATS as a division favorite; however, the favorite in this series is 8-3-1 ATS in the last 12 meetings.

The straight-up winner has cashed in all eight Eagles games this season and is 23-3-1 ATS in Philly’s last 26 games. The straight-up winner is also 7-2-1 ATS in the last 10 battles in this series.

The under is 7-1 in the last eight meetings between these rivals.

ATS ADVANTAGE: WASHINGTON and UNDER

Minnesota (3-5, 3-3-2 ATS) at Green Bay (7-1, 6-1-1 ATS)

The Vikings bring rookie sensation Adrian Peterson to Lambeau Field, aiming to slow down the red-hot Packers in an NFC North contest.

Minnesota rode Peterson to a 35-17 upset of San Diego as a seven-point home pup. The rookie running back rushed for an NFL record 296 yards on 30 carries (9.9 yards per carry), including TD runs of 64 and 46 yards, to go along with a 1-yarder. QB Tarvaris Jackson was knocked out cold in the game, and Brooks Bollinger was steady in relief. Jackson is listed as doubtful, meaning Bollinger will likely start against the Pack.

Green Bay posted its second straight road win and cover last Sunday, rallying past Kansas City 33-22 as a 2½-point ‘dog. QB Brett Favre (24 of 34, 360 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs) hit Greg Jennings on a 60-yard fourth-quarter TD pass that put the Packers up for good.

Despite last week’s upset of San Diego, the Vikings are just 7-19 SU and 9-15-2 ATS in their last 26 as an underdog, including a 23-16 home loss to Green Bay in Week 4 as a one-point pup. On the bright side, Minnesota is 10-3-1 ATS against NFC North opponents and has covered in its last seven trips to Green Bay.

The Packers are 11-1 SU and 9-2-1 ATS in their last 12 games. However, they are 8-19-2 ATS in their last 29 at Lambeau, and the road team is 10-1 ATS the last 11 in this series.

The straight-up winner is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 clashes in this series. The straight-up winner is also 21-1-2 the last two seasons for Green Bay, including 7-0-1 ATS this year.

ATS ADVANTAGE: MINNESOTA

Cincinnati (2-6, 3-5 ATS) at Baltimore (4-4, 1-7 ATS)

With their season falling apart at the seams, the Bengals are reduced to playing the role of spoiler when they visit the Ravens in an AFC North contest at M&T Bank Stadium.

Cincinnati dropped to 1-6 in its last seven games after suffering a 33-21 loss at Buffalo last week as a one-point road chalk. The Bengals led 21-16 after three quarters, then gave up 17 unanswered points, including a 56-yard Marshawn Lynch TD run. Cincinnati WR Chad Johnson, who was carted off the field with a neck injury last week, is probable.

Turnover-prone Baltimore got blown out at Pittsburgh 38-7 as a 9½-point ‘dog on Monday night, its second straight loss. QB Steve McNair, who has just two TDs and three INTs this season, was 13 of 22 for a paltry 63 yards, with one INT, five sacks and a lost fumble. The Ravens are a wounded team, with RB Willis McGahee, tight end Todd Heap and CB Chris McAlister all questionable, while CB Samari Rolle is out.

The Bengals have dropped six straight road games (2-4 ATS), and they are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 as a divisional underdog. They did beat Baltimore 27-20 in the season opener, though, covering as a 2½-point home favorite, and they’re 5-1 SU and ATS in the last six in this series.

The Ravens are 9-4 ATS as a home favorite against AFC North rivals.

The favorite in this series is on a 13-3 ATS run. Also, the straight-up winner is on a 10-0 ATS streak when these teams meet.

The straight-up winner is 21-2-1 ATS in Cincinnati’s last 24 games, dating to the 2006 season opener.

ATS ADVANTAGE: BALTIMORE

Chicago (3-5, 2-6 ATS) at Oakland (2-6, 3-5 ATS)

Two slumping teams in desperate need of a win square off in a non-conference game when the Bears meet the Raiders at McAfee Coliseum.

Chicago, coming off its bye, lost to Detroit 16-7 in Week 8 as a 5½-point home chalk and has now alternated SU and ATS wins and losses in its last five games. QB Brian Griese channeled Rex Grossman, going 22 of 40 for 208 yards with one TD and four INTs. Griese got little help, as the Bears’ putrid running game generated just 63 rushing yards.

Oakland ran its losing streak to four in a row with last week’s 24-17 home loss to Houston 24-17 as a three-point chalk. QB Josh McCown returned to the starting lineup and was awful, going 13 of 27 for 158 yards with one TD and three INTs, leading some to wonder if rookie QB Jamarcus Russell will soon make his first NFL start.

The Bears are mired in ATS slumps of 3-11 overall and 4-10-1 ATS against the AFC. However, they have won and covered back-to-back road games.

The Raiders are 0-7 ATS in their last seven home games, including 0-4 ATS this year. Stretching back to 2005, they are 7-22 ATS in their last 29 at McAfee Coliseum.

The straight-up winner is 15-3 ATS in Chicago’s last 18 games, including 7-1 this season.

The over is 20-9-1 in the Bears’ last 30 overall and 17-5-1 in their last 23 as a favorite.

ATS ADVANTAGE: CHICAGO and OVER

Dallas (7-1, 6-2 ATS) at N.Y. Giants (6-2, 5-3 ATS)

Although it hardly measures up to the hype of Patriots-Colts, the NFC’s biggest game to date takes place at the Meadowlands, where the first-place Cowboys look to cool off a Giants squad that’s riding a six-game winning streak.

Dallas came out of its bye last week and punished Philadelphia 38-17 as a three-point road chalk. Armed with a new lucrative contract, QB Tony Romo efficiently chewed up the Eagles’ defense, going 20 of 25 for 324 yards with three TDs and one INT. Dallas won the turnover battle 3-1.

New York got a week off after slogging to a 13-10 victory over Miami as a 10-point “road” favorite in a game played in the rain and mud at Wembley Stadium in London. Eli Manning passed for a season-low 59 yards, but Brandon Jacobs delivered 131 rushing yards on 23 carries.

The Cowboys are 6-0 as a favorite this season (5-1 ATS), including a season-opening 45-35 rout of the Giants as 6½-point home favorites. However, Dallas snapped an 0-6 ATS slump in divisional road games with last week’s win at Philly, and the Pokes haven’t covered in their last three trips to New Jersey.

The Giants are 5-1 ATS during their current winning streak, and they are 5-0-1 ATS in this series.

The straight-up winner is 7-1 ATS this season for both Dallas and New York.

The home team is 11-5-2 ATS in the last 18 meetings.

The over is 18-9-2 in Dallas’ last 29 games, 3-1 in the Giants’ last four at home and 2-0-1 in the last three series meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: N.Y. GIANTS and OVER

Detroit (6-2 SU and ATS) at Arizona (3-5, 4-3-1 ATS)

The surprising Lions shoot for their fourth consecutive win and cover when they visit the Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium.

Detroit flattened Denver 44-7 last week as a three-point home favorite. QB Jon Kitna had two TD passes, and the Lions forced four turnovers, returning two for TDs.

Arizona came off its bye and lost to Tampa Bay 17-10 as a 3½-point road ‘dog in a dismal offensive performance. QB Kurt Warner was 10 of 30 for 172 yards with two INTs, and the rushing game netted just 23 yards.

The Lions are 2-2 SU and ATS on the road this year, but 4-8 ATS on the highway going back to 2005, including a 17-10 loss at Arizona last season as a 2½-point underdog. In fact, the home team is 7-0 SU and ATS in the last seven meetings between these squads since 2000, with the winner covering the spread in all seven contests.

The Cardinals are 1-5 ATS in their last six as chalk, including 0-2 ATS in that role this year. However, they’re 7-2 ATS in their last nine as non-division home favorite, and they’re still 11-4 ATS in their last 15 overall.

The straight-up winner has cashed in all eight of the Lions’ contests this season.

The over is 6-1 in the last seven clashes in this series, with the lone under occurring last season.

ATS ADVANTAGE: ARIZONA

Indianapolis (7-1, 6-2 ATS) at San Diego (4-4 SU and ATS)

The defending Super Bowl champion Colts, coming off their first loss, make a lengthy road trip to Qualcomm Stadium to face the Chargers.

Indianapolis controlled most of the game last week against New England, only to give up a 10-point lead in the final 10 minutes, losing 24-20 loss as a 5½-point home pup. QB Peyton Manning wasn’t sharp, but still went 16 of 27 for 225 yards and a TD. However, he accounted for both Colts turnovers (one INT, one fumble). The one bright spot was RB Joseph Addai, who piled up 226 total yards and one TD.

Manning’s WR corps are really banged up. Marvin Harrison, who has missed the last two weeks, and Dallas Clark are questionable, while rookie Anthony Gonzalez is out.

San Diego is coming off an ugly 35-17 loss at Minnesota as a seven-point road favorite, allowing Vikings RB Adrian Peterson to rush for an NFL-record 296 yards and 3 TDs. Philip Rivers (19 of 42, 197 yards, 1 INT) couldn’t generate much of a passing game, and RB LaDainian Tomlinson gained just 40 yards on 16 carries, with one TD.

The Colts are 16-5 SU and 12-8-1 ATS in their last 21 road games (4-0 SU, 2-2 ATS this year). Also, Indy is on a 10-2 ATS roll overall, including an NFL-best five consecutive spread-covers.

The Chargers are 13-2-2 ATS in their last 17 games as an underdog, but in their only game as a pup this year, they got crushed 38-14 at New England.

The winner is 8-0 ATS in San Diego’s games this season.

The over is 5-2 in San Diego’s last seven overall, 7-1 in San Diego’s last eight as a home underdog, 23-11 in the Colts last 34 games following a SU loss and 5-2 in the last seven regular-season meetings.

ATS ADVANTAGE: INDIANAPOLIS and OVER

Today’s key NFL line moves
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Buffalo Bills at Miami Dolphins: +3 to + 2 ½

The Dolphins return to action after their bye week and look to erase any chance of finishing 0-16. Bettors must think this is a good spot for Miami’s winless streak to end.

The books opened with the Bills laying three on the road against their division rival but the line has dropped under the field goal mark.

Buffalo has covered the number the last six times it has faced Miami, including a 21-0 drumming last December.

Chicago Bears at Oakland Raiders: +3 to +3 ½

Not much is going right for the Raiders these days. Oakland has lost four straight after a promising 2-2 start. Neither Daunte Culpepper nor Josh McCown has given the team consistent play at quarterback.

McCown will start on Sunday despite completing just 13 of 28 passes and tossing three picks last weekend. Looks like it might be time to see what rookie JaMarcus Russell can do.

Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants: +1 ½ to pick

The G-Men get a chance at redemption this afternoon. A win over Dallas puts New York into a tie for first place in the NFC East. The Cowboys looked awfully good last week against the Philadelphia Eagles but the action is still coming in on the home side.

Sunday Morning Scoop

Eli Manning and the Giants have revenge on their mind for tonight’s game against the Cowboys. Dallas knocked off the Giants in week one by a 45-35 margin and after the close loss in Texas Stadium, the Giants fell to Green Bay in week two by 25 points. Despite the early setbacks – this is a completely different Giants team. Manning is having a solid overall season and running back Brandon Jacobs continues to find his rhythm as the starting running back. Additionally, the Giants have won six games in a row and are coming off a much-needed bye week. The Cowboys are considered the NFL’s best team in the NFC – but a win here by Tom Coughlin’s squad could throw some doubt into that notion.

Atlanta vs. Carolina

Falcons

Alge Crumpler (TE) – Crumpler was inactive in week nine due to an ankle injury and the Falcons list him as probable for today’s game. Crumpler could return, but don’t depend on him for your roster.

Stephen Nicholas (LB) – Nicholas did not play in week nine due to ankle injury, but is listed as probable for today’s game.

Byron Leftwich (QB) – Leftwich continues to miss time after ankle surgery and the Falcons believe he is closer to a return. Despite his progress, Leftwich won’t play in Sunday’s game against the Panthers and Joey Harrington will get the start once again.

Jerious Norwood (RB) – Norwood suffered an ankle injury against the 49ers and he is listed as questionable for today’s game against the Panthers. Do not count on Norwood for your lineup, as he has been limited in practice this week. Look for Warrick Dunn to carry the workload in week ten.

Panthers

Dan Morgan (LB) – Morgan has been placed on injured reserve and is done for the rest of the 2007 season.

David Carr (QB) – Although his performances have not been exactly stellar, it’s pretty clear Carr is still dealing with the effects of a back injury and a concussion. The Panthers have ruled out Carr for week ten and Vinny Testaverde is questionable to play, leaving the team with Matt Moore as the likely starting quarterback.

Vinny Testaverde (QB) – Testaverde did not play in week nine due to an Achilles injury and his status for week ten is uncertain. The Panthers have left open the possibility that he will play, but Matt Moore could get the nod.

Keary Colbert (WR) – Colbert is listed as questionable for today’s game with a foot injury – he is not a fantasy option for your roster.

Justin Hartwig (C) – Hartwig is listed as questionable with a thumb injury.

Probable – defensive end Otis Grigsby and tackle Jordan Gross

Philadelphia Eagles vs. Washington Redskins

Eagles

Sean Considine (S) – Considine has been placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury and he is done for the rest of the season.

Lito Sheppard (CB)—Sheppard went into Sunday’s game against the Cowboys with a knee injury. He subsequently left the game in the third quarter of that game because of his knee, but should play in today’s game against the Redskins.

Brian Dawkins (S)—Dawkins missed five consecutive games with neck injury before registering two tackles in Sunday’s Cowboys contest. There is no concern here – Dawkins will start and should play a full game.

Jason Avant (WR)—Avant missed last Sunday’s game with a groin injury, but will play in week ten.

Probable – center Jon Dorenbos, cornerback William James, wide receiver Greg Lewis, tackle Jon Runyan and tight end L.J. Smith.

Redskins

Cornelius Griffin (DT)—Griffin suffered a back injury in Week Nine warm-ups. He saw limited action last week and is currently listed as probable for the Eagles contest.

Marcus Washington (LB)—Washington didn’t see any action in the overtime victory over the Jets due to his hamstring injury, but the linebacker is listed as probable for today’s game.

Randy Thomas (G) – The Redskins continue to hold out hope that Thomas will return this season, but it seems like a longshot.

Santana Moss (WR) – Moss is listed as questionable with a heel injury – check the Sunday Morning Scoop for the latest on his status for today’s game against the Eagles.

Antwaan Randle El (WR) – Randle El is listed as probable with a hamstring injury and he should go in today’s game. Check the Sunday Morning Scoop for the latest updates.

Fred Smoot (CB) – Smoot is listed as probable with a hamstring injury.

Jacksonville vs. Tennessee

Jaguars

Chris Naeole (OG) – Naeole suffered a season-ending quad injury against the Saints and the guard will be missed on the Jaguars front line the rest of the season.

Josh Scobee (K) – Scobee has not kicked this season and he is not expected to return in week ten.

Quinn Gray (QB) – Gray was nicked up during Sunday’s loss to New Orleans, but stayed in the game. Gray will start against the Titans.

David Garrard (QB) – Garrard’s ankle sprain did not allow him to play in week nine and the Jaguars believe he will likely miss one more week before returning. Garrard made progress in his return from the ankle injury, but he should not play in today’s game.

Marcedes Lewis (TE) – Lewis is listed as probable with a knee injury, but he made it through a full workout on Friday and should start in today’s game.

Questionable – defensive end Brent Hawkins and center Dennis Norman

Titans

Chris Brown (RB) – Brown missed his second consecutive game in last week’s victory against Carolina with an ankle sprain. With Chris Henry’s impending suspension, expect Brown to return to the lineup next week.

Brandon Jones (WR) – Knee surgery limited Jones in previous weeks, but he returned to the lineup and posted a marginal performance. Jones should knock the rust off in the next game or two, but the Titan receiver is not a fantasy option.

Ahmard Hall (FB) – Hall continues to miss time, as he continues to recover from a forearm injury.

Albert Haynesworth (DT) – Haynesworth is questionable with a hamstring injury, but believes he will play in today’s game. Check the Sunday Morning Scoop for the latest on his status.

Travis LaBoy (DE) – LaBoy is questionable with a concussion.

LenDale White (RB) – White is listed as probable with a toe injury, but he won’t miss today’s game against the Jaguars.

Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh

Browns

D’Qwell Jackson (LB) – Jackson is expected to miss a couple of weeks with an ankle injury.

Seth McKinney (C) – McKinney suffered a shoulder injury against the Seahawks and the Browns have already ruled him out for today’s game against the Steelers.

Antwan Peek (LB) – Peek is listed as questionable for today’s game with a knee injury.

Eric Steinbach (G) – Steinbach is listed as questionable with a back injury and he could end up being a gametime decision for the Browns.

Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger (QB) – After Monday night’s game against the Ravens, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin indicated Roethlisberger likely suffered a hip pointer in the victory. However, Roethlisberger won’t miss today’s game and should be 100 percent.

Aaron Smith (DE) – Smith’s knee wasn’t healed enough to go in week nine, but the Steelers do not list him on the injury report for today’s game and he should be in the starting lineup.

Ryan Clark (S) – Clark has missed the last couple of games with a spleen injury suffered in the loss to Denver and the safety won’t play in today’s game.

Jerame Tuman (TE) – Tuman is listed as out with a back injury.

Willie Parker (RB) – Fast Willie has some soreness in his knee, but the Steelers have indicated he will start today’s game against the Browns. Don’t let this stop you from having him in your week ten lineup.

St. Louis vs. New Orleans

Rams

Steven Jackson (RB) – Jackson is still dealing with the effects of a bulging disc in his back, but he will see a significant number of touches in today’s game. He’s a top 15 fantasy back against the Saints.

Dante Hall (WR) – Hall is battling a high ankle sprain and is listed as questionable with an ankle injury.

Leonard Little (DE) – Little will miss the rest of the season with a toe injury.

Brett Romberg (C) – Romberg is listed as questionable with an ankle injury.

Out – guard Richie Incognito and tight end Aaron Walker

Saints

Reggie Bush (RB) – The Saints have listed Bush questionable for today’s game, but the overall feeling is that he will play in today’s game against the Rams. This is an excellent match-up for Bush and barring a setback in pregame warm-ups, it seems likely he will start and see a full workload.

Out – defensive end Charles Grant, linebacker Scott Shanle, defensive tackle Brian Young, cornerback Usama Young

Buffalo vs. Miami

Bills

Trent Edwards (QB) – Battling a wrist injury, Edwards was forced to sit out week nine. J.P. Losman played well in Edwards’ absence and will get the start once again. Edwards is likely to be the backup, but may not regain his starting job anytime soon.

Josh Reed (WR) – Reed is listed as questionable for today’s game with a back injury. He is not a fantasy option for your roster.

Aaron Schobel (DE) – The Bills have listed Schobel as questionable for today’s game with an illness.

John DiGiorgio (LB) - DiGiorgio suffered a concussion against the Bengals and his status for week ten is up in the air.

Out – tight ends Matt Murphy and Derek Schouman

Dolphins

Travares Tillman (S) – Due to a knee injury, Tillman will miss today’s game against the Bills.

Zach Thomas (LB) – Thomas did not play in the Dolphins London match-up against the Giants with a concussion and is listed as out for today’s game against the Bills. The Dolphins defense was a shaky start with Thomas in the lineup and it isn’t any better with that news.

Vonnie Holliday (DT) – Holliday is expected to play in week ten, as the defensive tackle continues to recover from an ankle injury.

Denver Broncos vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Broncos

Jay Cutler (QB)—Cutler suffered a leg injury in last week’s game against the Lions, but a MRI showed no significant damage and he seems likely to start today’s game. Check the Sunday Morning Scoop to find out the latest on his status, but the Chiefs have been a tough defense and Cutler is not high in the quarterback rankings this week.

Travis Henry (RB)—Henry injured his knee in last week’s game against the Lions and is questionable to play. Check the Sunday Morning Scoop for the latest updates on his status.

Jason Elam (K) – Elam is questionable for today’s match-up, but the Broncos do not seem concerned he will miss this game.

John Lynch (S) – Lynch is listed as questionable for today’s game with a neck injury – and isn’t guaranteed to play.

Probable – defensive end Elvis Dumervil, cornerback Karl Paymah, linebacker D.J. Williams and defensive end John Engelberger

Chiefs

Larry Johnson (RB)—Johnson suffered a mid-foot sprain against the Packers and he has been ruled out for today’s game against the Broncos. Some reports have mentioned the running back will be out next week, but fantasy owners should hold off on that until more information is released.

Will Svitek (T) – Svitek has been ruled out for today’s game with a foot injury.

Eddie Kennison (WR)—Kennison has missed six games this season. In the two he has played, he has no catches. His hamstring is still injured and he isn’t expected to make much of an impact in today’s game.

Probable – tackle Damion McIntosh, linebacker Keyaron Fox and tight end Jason Dunn

Minnesota vs. Green Bay

Vikings

Tarvaris Jackson (QB) – Jackson was knocked out for several minutes against in week 9. Bollinger played well in his place, but apparently Childress likes his quarterbacks completely less than 50% of their passes, so he says he’ll stick with Jackson if healthy. If Jackson cannot start, Brooks Bollinger will get the nod.

Questionable – defensive end Ray Edwards, quarterback Kelly Holcomb, wide receiver Sidney Rice and cornerback Antoine Winfield

Probable – receiver Bobby Wade, tackles Ryan Cook and Bryant McKinnie

Packers

Ryan Grant (RB) – Grant suffered a concussion in last week’s game against the Chiefs, but the running back has made consistent progress in his return from the injury. The Packers expect to have him in the starting lineup for today’s game against the Vikings.

Bubba Franks (TE) – Franks is still weeks away from suiting back up. Donald Lee should see more balls come his way in the meantime.

Probable – cornerback Al Harris, defensive tackle Ryan Pickett, linebacker Brady Poppinga, wide receiver Koren Robinson, safety Aaron Rouse, defensive tackle Corey Williams, cornerback Charles Woodson, guard Junius Coston and tackle Tony Moll

Out – defensive tackle Justin Harrell, cornerback Will Blackmon and safety Nick Collins

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Baltimore Ravens

Bengals

Rudi Johnson (RB)—Johnson saw action in the Bills game, but didn’t put up much yardage. He doesn’t appear to be one-hundred percent, but is probable to see action regardless.

Willie Anderson (OT) – Anderson missed another game this week – and he won’t play in week ten.

Chad Johnson (WR)—Johnson suffered a strained neck late in the Bills game and is listed as probable for today’s game. Expect Johnson to play and be a top ten fantasy option this weekend.

John Thornton (DT)—Thornton did not play Sunday due to neck injury. The already depleted defense may not have him available for this week’s game, either.

Probable – cornerback Deltha O’Neal and wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh

Doubtful – tight end Reggie Kelly and linebacker Anthony Schlegel

Out – linebackers Ahmad Brooks and Caleb Miller

Ravens

Willis McGahee (RB)—McGahee suffered a concussion in Monday night’s loss to Pittsburgh, but the Ravens have indicated they expect to have him ready to go for today’s game against Cincinnati. McGahee is an excellent start this weekend.

Ed Reed (S) – Reed did not participate in Friday’s practice and the Ravens are considering him a longshot to play against the Bengals. Don’t count on Reed being in the lineup.

Todd Heap (TE) – Heap is listed as probable for today’s game against the Bengals and the valuable tight end is expected to play.

Chris McAlister (CB) – The Ravens secondary is the walking wounded, as McAlister makes the injury report once again with a knee injury. McAlister did not play against Pittsburgh and is questionable to play against the Bengals.

Questionable – linebacker Terrell Suggs and cornerback David Pittman

Out – cornerback Samari Rolle and tight end Daniel Wilcox

Chicago vs. Oakland

Bears

Nathan Vasher (DB) – Vasher is listed as doubtful for today’s game against the Raiders and the Bears do not expect to have him on the field.

Tommie Harris (DT) – The Bears list Harris as questionable with a knee injury – which doesn’t help this unit’s struggling run defense.

Ruben Brown (G) – Brown is listed as out against the Raiders with a shoulder injury.

Raiders
Jake Grove (C) – Grove is listed as doubtful with a knee injury.

Jerry Porter (WR) – A knee injury has limited Porter this week, but he is listed as questionable for today’s game.

Nnamdi Asomugha (CB) – Asomugha had a MRI on his injured knee this week, but the results indicated the cornerback should be able to play through the injury. Asomugha is listed as questionable.

Gerard Warren (DT) – Warren was out last week and is listed as probable for today’s game.

Dallas vs. New York Giants

Cowboys

Terry Glenn (WR)—Still out with an injured knee.

Anthony Henry (CB) – Henry is still nicked up with an ankle injury, but the Cowboys list him as probable for today’s game.

Giants

Steve Smith (WR) – The Giants are closer to getting Smith back on the field, but it won’t be this week against the Cowboys.

Derrick Ward (RB) – Ward is listed as doubtful for today’s game against the Cowboys. If Ward is unable to go, expect Reuben Droughns to see more of a workload as the top back-up to Brandon Jacobs.

Detroit vs. Arizona

Lions

Doubtful – tackle Jonathan Scott and defensive end Dewayne White

Probable – fullback Jon Bradley and quarterback Jon Kitna

Cardinals

Karlos Dansby (LB) – Dansby missed another game on Sunday. His knee should be in shape for him to suit up this weekend though. He’s certainly been missed. The defense made Earnest Graham look like a Pro Bowler last weekend.

Aaron Francisco (S) – The Cardinals have ruled out Francisco for today’s game with a knee injury.

Adrian Wilson (S) – Wilson is listed as questionable with a heel injury.

Probable – quarterback Kurt Warner, cornerback Eric Green, tackle Mike Gandy and tackle Elton Brown

Indianapolis vs. San Diego

Colts

Freddy Keiaho (LB) – A concussion has limited Keiaho in recent weeks and he did not play against the Patriots. Keiaho is questionable to play in today’s game.

Anthony Gonzalez (WR) – Gonzalez suffered a dislocated thumb against the Patriots will miss a couple of weeks with the injury. You can drop him from your roster.

Marvin Harrison (WR) – The Colts continue to be a little quiet about Harrison’s knee injury, but he is listed as questionable for today’s game against the Chargers. The Colts obviously missed Harrison’s presence against the Patriots and he’ll likely be a gametime call against the Chargers.

Questionable – tackle Tony Ugoh, defensive tackle Raheem Brock, cornerback Marlin Jackson, tight end Dallas Clark and linebacker Tyjuan Hagler

Tyjuan Hagler (LB) – Hagler’s neck injury did not heal in time for Sunday’s game against the Patriots and he was unable to go. Hagler’s status for week ten’s game against the Chargers is in doubt.

Anthony Gonzalez (WR) – Gonzalez suffered a dislocated thumb against the Patriots and it is uncertain when he will be able to return.

Tony Ugoh (OT) – The Colts missed Ugoh’s presence on Sunday, as the left tackle missed the game with a neck injury. Ugoh is questionable to play in week ten.

Marvin Harrison (WR) – Harrison’s knee continues to be a problem and the veteran receiver was inactive for Sunday’s game against the Patriots. On Saturday night, the Colts announced Harrison did not make the trip to San Diego and he won’t play in Sunday’s game against the Chargers. Harrison should return later this year, but when is uncertain.

Chargers

Luis Castillo (DT) – Castillo is out six to eight weeks with a strained knee suffered in Sunday’s game against the Vikings.

Craig Davis (WR) – Davis did not play against the Vikings with an ankle injury – he is not a fantasy option for your roster.

Nick Hardwick (C) – Hardwick did not play in week nine, as he continues to recover from a foot injury. The Chargers top center won’t return in week ten and it seems likely he will play in week eleven instead.

Quentin Jammer (CB) – The Chargers have listed Jammer as doubtful for today’s game, but they do not expect him to suit up with a hamstring injury.

Shaun Phillips (LB) – Despite stating he was nearly certain to play in week nine, Phillips sat out with a groin injury. Phillips is not on the injury report and will play in week ten.

Jaguars: Garrard out

David Garrard will miss his third straight game on Sunday as he continues to nurse an injured ankle. He is officially listed as the Jaguars' third quarterback. Quinn Gray will start.

Broncos: Cutler will play

Jay Cutler is active and will start for the Broncos against the Chiefs on Sunday.

Saints: Bush starting

Saints running back Reggie Bush (knee) is active and starting against Rams on Sunday.

Vikings: Bollinger to start

The Vikings have confirmed that Brooks Bollinger will be their starting quarterback today against the Packers. Tarvaris Jackson suffered a concussion in last week's win over the Chargers.

Vikings: No Rice today

The Vikings will be without wideout Sidney Rice in Week 10 because he's inactive with a hamstring injury.

Eagles: Buckhalter out

Eagles running back Correll Buckhalter is inactive for Sunday's game against the Redskins. Various reports suggest he is sick. Rookie Tony Hunt will likely step up into his running back role, and J.R. Reed will likely return kicks.

Redskins: Moss inactive

Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss is inactive on Sunday against the Eagles due to a sore heel.

Falcons: No-go for Norwood

Jeriuos Norwood will not play on Sunday against the Panthers. He is officially listed as inactive with an ankle injury.

Giants: Burress will play

Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress will start on Sunday against the Cowboys, ESPN reports. He has been dealing with a sprained right ankle since early August.

Giants: Ward out

Giants running back Derrick Ward will not play against the Cowboys on Sunday due to a sore groin, ESPN reports.