Creative Writing
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Friday, 16 September 2011
LSU football vs. Mississippi State by the numbers
LSU football vs. Mississippi State by the numbers
LSU quarterback Jarrett Lee has thrown 105 passes without an interception.12-for-12: LSU's efficiency in the red zone, which leads the Southeastern Conference and the nation.
1: Tonight's game matches the SEC's top rushing offense in the Bulldogs (321.0 yards per game) against the league's top rushing defense in the Tigers (45.5 yards per game).
19: Number of consecutive games the Tigers have won in September. LSU's last loss was 7-3 to Auburn in 2006.
24-13: Les Miles' record against Top 25 teams. The teams are meeting for the first time as ranked opponents in the series' 105th game.
11: Consecutive victories by the Tigers over the Bulldogs. Mississippi State last defeated LSU 17-16 on Oct. 23, 1999 in Starkville. The Tigers have outscored the Bulldogs 433-138 in that span.
17: Number of tackles for losses by Mississippi State, best in the SEC.
150.5: Yards per game by the Bulldogs' Vick Bellard.
105: Passes without an interception by LSU quarterback Jarrett Lee. The streak ties Tommy Hodson as the fourth-longest streak in school history. Alan Risher holds the record at 137.
Monday, 12 September 2011
Romo ruins Rob Ryan's defensive debut
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — For three and a half quarters, the Dallas Cowboys looked like they had turned the page from last season's embarrassment. But in a shocking turn of events, they were undermined by quarterback Tony Romo's two turnovers and a special-teams gaffe.
Say one thing for these Cowboys: They know how to lose season openers in epic fashion. Even by Romo's boom-or-bust standards, this was a doozy.
He managed the game brilliantly for much of the night, and then erased the good vibes with two inexplicable turnovers in a 27-24 loss that will leave a mark. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stood in the hall outside a quiet locker room and attempted to defend his franchise quarterback, but he wasn't overly convincing.
The fourth-quarter collapse ruined a solid debut by Rob Ryan's defense. That would have been the story of the game had Romo not coughed up the ball at the Jets' 3-yard line with 8:59 left in the game. A field goal on that drive would've given the Cowboys a 27-17 lead. Instead, the Jets were given new life.
Then, with five minutes left, Joe McKnight raced through a massive opening to block a Mat McBriar punt with one hand. Isaiah Trufant, just activated from the practice squad Saturday, scooped it up and raced into the end zone to tie the game at 24.
The Cowboys' defense once again held the Jets, giving Romo 59 seconds and the ball on his own 41-yard line.
But on the first play, he floated a pass in the direction of wide receiver Dez Bryant that was easily picked off by Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. The Jets only moved the ball two yards from that point, but former Cowboys kicker Nick Folk nailed a 50-yard field goal with 32 seconds left to give the Jets their first lead of the game.
Romo had an animated discussion with Bryant following the play, but the quarterback assumed blame after the game.
"He was right with what he did," said Romo of Bryant. "He kept going (on the route). It was a dumb decision, too reactionary. I should have made sure. That was my fault."
Even head coach Jason Garrett, one of Romo's most ardent defenders, seemed at a loss for what happened.
"I didn't get a great look at the play, but it looked like they went to what we call a two-man [coverage]," said Garrett. "We played up underneath it, and I don't know if Tony was fooled by it a little bit, but unfortunately we made that turnover and gave them a chance to win the ball game."
The irony is that everyone thought the Cowboys' offense would have to cover for the defense early in the season. But for much of this game, Ryan schooled his twin brother Rex, the Jets' head coach.
The Cowboys somehow overcame the loss of two starting cornerbacks in the game. Orlando Scandrick left the game with an ankle injury in the first half, and Mike Jenkins had to exit twice before returning in the fourth quarter. Jones said Scandrick would be out three to four weeks.
The Cowboys had four sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles against the Jets. Rob Ryan was beside himself as he left the field. He shouted several expletives while ripping his baseball cap off to reveal his unruly silver mane.
From the moment the NFL schedule was released for 2011, Rex and Rob Ryan knew they'd be a popular storyline. Each twin tried to avoid making this about him, because they knew the 10th anniversary of 9/11 was far more significant.
But asking the sons of Buddy Ryan to act like wallflowers when family pride's at stake is a dicey proposition under any circumstances. The 80-year-old Buddy, who made a rare road trip from his horse farm in Kentucky, had to enjoy seeing Rex and Rob throwing haymakers at each other on a remarkable night at MetLife Stadium.
Rob reminded reporters this week that he'd been a pretty good coach at both the college and professional levels. And for much of the evening, he backed up those words by confusing the Jets' offense with an array of different looks and blitz packages.
This looked nothing like the 2010 Cowboys defense — or the one that was gashed in the running game throughout this preseason. Ryan spotted a weakness in the form of Jets right tackle Wayne Hunter, who was embarrassed by Cowboys All-Pro DeMarcus Ware from the opening snap.
The Ryan boys hugged on the field following the game and then gathered with family members outside the Jets locker room. Rob put a bear hug on his father and then trudged toward the team bus.
"I'm not talking!" he said to a reporter as he slicked back his drenched hair.
One by one, Cowboys players talked about how they'd wanted to win the game for Rob. Defensive end Jason Hatcher, who made a surprise start Sunday, still had a look of disbelief on his face.
"He believes in every one of us," said Hatcher. "With a guy like that, you'll run through walls for him."
Though Rob might not admit it, it had to be driving him a little nuts to see his brother gain so much acclaim the past two seasons while he toiled in relative obscurity with the Raiders and Browns.
But by coming to the Cowboys, he's been given a bigger stage. That can be good or bad when you consider this defense effectively brought Wade Phillips' head-coaching days to an abrupt end midway through last season.
Rob has restored swagger to a defense that gave up points at a stunning pace last season. The Cowboys made massive changes on Garrett's side of the ball, but other than the signing of safety Abe Elam, Ryan has the same cast of players who failed so spectacularly last season.
But on this night, the Cowboys were undermined by their quarterback. He'll be hit with a new wave of questions about his decision-making. Two years ago, he learned to not take needless risks and to rely on his defense.
This was a night when the defense had his back. And he made two disastrous mistakes.
Jones tried to put on a brave face, but optimism was in short supply. This feels like one of those losses that could linger.
"We had a good chance to go home with a very big prize," said Jones. "And change some of the expectations. We didn't do it."
Romo was 23 of 36 for 342 yards and two touchdowns. But those numbers couldn't be more empty after this loss.
The Jets stole a football game at in the Meadowlands. And Romo was their biggest accomplice.
Say one thing for these Cowboys: They know how to lose season openers in epic fashion. Even by Romo's boom-or-bust standards, this was a doozy.
He managed the game brilliantly for much of the night, and then erased the good vibes with two inexplicable turnovers in a 27-24 loss that will leave a mark. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stood in the hall outside a quiet locker room and attempted to defend his franchise quarterback, but he wasn't overly convincing.
The fourth-quarter collapse ruined a solid debut by Rob Ryan's defense. That would have been the story of the game had Romo not coughed up the ball at the Jets' 3-yard line with 8:59 left in the game. A field goal on that drive would've given the Cowboys a 27-17 lead. Instead, the Jets were given new life.
Then, with five minutes left, Joe McKnight raced through a massive opening to block a Mat McBriar punt with one hand. Isaiah Trufant, just activated from the practice squad Saturday, scooped it up and raced into the end zone to tie the game at 24.
The Cowboys' defense once again held the Jets, giving Romo 59 seconds and the ball on his own 41-yard line.
But on the first play, he floated a pass in the direction of wide receiver Dez Bryant that was easily picked off by Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis. The Jets only moved the ball two yards from that point, but former Cowboys kicker Nick Folk nailed a 50-yard field goal with 32 seconds left to give the Jets their first lead of the game.
Romo had an animated discussion with Bryant following the play, but the quarterback assumed blame after the game.
"He was right with what he did," said Romo of Bryant. "He kept going (on the route). It was a dumb decision, too reactionary. I should have made sure. That was my fault."
Even head coach Jason Garrett, one of Romo's most ardent defenders, seemed at a loss for what happened.
"I didn't get a great look at the play, but it looked like they went to what we call a two-man [coverage]," said Garrett. "We played up underneath it, and I don't know if Tony was fooled by it a little bit, but unfortunately we made that turnover and gave them a chance to win the ball game."
The irony is that everyone thought the Cowboys' offense would have to cover for the defense early in the season. But for much of this game, Ryan schooled his twin brother Rex, the Jets' head coach.
The Cowboys somehow overcame the loss of two starting cornerbacks in the game. Orlando Scandrick left the game with an ankle injury in the first half, and Mike Jenkins had to exit twice before returning in the fourth quarter. Jones said Scandrick would be out three to four weeks.
The Cowboys had four sacks, an interception and two forced fumbles against the Jets. Rob Ryan was beside himself as he left the field. He shouted several expletives while ripping his baseball cap off to reveal his unruly silver mane.
From the moment the NFL schedule was released for 2011, Rex and Rob Ryan knew they'd be a popular storyline. Each twin tried to avoid making this about him, because they knew the 10th anniversary of 9/11 was far more significant.
But asking the sons of Buddy Ryan to act like wallflowers when family pride's at stake is a dicey proposition under any circumstances. The 80-year-old Buddy, who made a rare road trip from his horse farm in Kentucky, had to enjoy seeing Rex and Rob throwing haymakers at each other on a remarkable night at MetLife Stadium.
Rob reminded reporters this week that he'd been a pretty good coach at both the college and professional levels. And for much of the evening, he backed up those words by confusing the Jets' offense with an array of different looks and blitz packages.
This looked nothing like the 2010 Cowboys defense — or the one that was gashed in the running game throughout this preseason. Ryan spotted a weakness in the form of Jets right tackle Wayne Hunter, who was embarrassed by Cowboys All-Pro DeMarcus Ware from the opening snap.
The Ryan boys hugged on the field following the game and then gathered with family members outside the Jets locker room. Rob put a bear hug on his father and then trudged toward the team bus.
"I'm not talking!" he said to a reporter as he slicked back his drenched hair.
One by one, Cowboys players talked about how they'd wanted to win the game for Rob. Defensive end Jason Hatcher, who made a surprise start Sunday, still had a look of disbelief on his face.
"He believes in every one of us," said Hatcher. "With a guy like that, you'll run through walls for him."
Though Rob might not admit it, it had to be driving him a little nuts to see his brother gain so much acclaim the past two seasons while he toiled in relative obscurity with the Raiders and Browns.
But by coming to the Cowboys, he's been given a bigger stage. That can be good or bad when you consider this defense effectively brought Wade Phillips' head-coaching days to an abrupt end midway through last season.
Rob has restored swagger to a defense that gave up points at a stunning pace last season. The Cowboys made massive changes on Garrett's side of the ball, but other than the signing of safety Abe Elam, Ryan has the same cast of players who failed so spectacularly last season.
But on this night, the Cowboys were undermined by their quarterback. He'll be hit with a new wave of questions about his decision-making. Two years ago, he learned to not take needless risks and to rely on his defense.
This was a night when the defense had his back. And he made two disastrous mistakes.
Jones tried to put on a brave face, but optimism was in short supply. This feels like one of those losses that could linger.
"We had a good chance to go home with a very big prize," said Jones. "And change some of the expectations. We didn't do it."
Romo was 23 of 36 for 342 yards and two touchdowns. But those numbers couldn't be more empty after this loss.
The Jets stole a football game at in the Meadowlands. And Romo was their biggest accomplice.
Dez Bryant returns from locker room
Dez Bryant returns from locker room
UPDATE: Bryant returned before the next drive, missing only six snaps.
Bryant appeared to hurt his left leg in the first half after a 26-yard catch along the sideline and missed a few plays. He received treatment on the sideline and returned. In between series he jogged and stretched to stay loose. He also appeared to have a numbing agent sprayed on his leg.
Bryant jogged into the locker room with one of the athletic trainers.
If he does not return then Jesse Holley and Dwayne Harris would split the No. 3 wide out duties.
boys at New York Jets Sunday Night Football Phinsider Open Thread
boys at New York Jets Sunday Night Football Phinsider Open Thread
In the final Sunday game of Week 1, the Dallas Cowboys head up north to take on the New York Jets. In what will surely be an emotional pre-game, the memories of September 11, 2001 will surely be a centerpiece of the game, as the NFL, New York, and all of America honor the 10th anniversary of that day.
Tonight's game finds the Jets in an odd situation. If they lose, they actually fall behind a Buffalo Bills team that decimated the Kansas City Chiefs today.
Either way, this should be a good game. Dallas has a ton of talent and is looking to rebound after a really disappointing 2010. The Jets are looking to start their march toward a third straight AFC Championship game.
The last thing I will say is GO COWBOYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tonight's game finds the Jets in an odd situation. If they lose, they actually fall behind a Buffalo Bills team that decimated the Kansas City Chiefs today.
Either way, this should be a good game. Dallas has a ton of talent and is looking to rebound after a really disappointing 2010. The Jets are looking to start their march toward a third straight AFC Championship game.
The last thing I will say is GO COWBOYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Samantha Stosur beats Serena Williams
Samantha Stosur beats Serena Williams
Samantha Stosur beats Serena Williams 6-2 6-3 to claim grand slam glory in US Open womens final
Analyzing Week 1's injury report
Analyzing Week 1's injury report
Brett Davis/US PresswireArian Foster's status for Week 1 is still uncertain.A primer for those new to the game: Injury reports provide clues to a player's status for eager fantasy owners. The NFL requires teams to submit injury reports several times per week, identifying the body part that is involved in the injury. Early in the week, these reports will indicate whether a player who has some level of injury is not practicing, is limited in practice or is a full participant. On Fridays, all players on the injury report are assigned one of the following designations by their teams: probable, questionable, doubtful or out.
The explanation for each designation is as follows:
Probable (P): This designation indicates that a player has a greater than 50 percent chance of playing. Most players listed here are expected to play, barring a setback between the Friday injury report and kickoff.
Questionable (Q): This is the fantasy owner's most dreaded player designation. It means a player's status is on the fence and that there is a 50-50 chance he'll be on the field come game time. However, as fantasy owners have come to learn, many teams utilize the questionable designation for any player with a hint of injury. Whether a player ends up active often comes down to a game-time decision based on how he performs during warmups, so it is important for fantasy owners to check status reports leading up to the game.
Doubtful (D): The doubtful designation means a player has less than a 25 percent chance of playing that week. Rarely does a guy labeled as doubtful end up playing unless he experiences a major turnaround before game time. Fantasy owners who need to make roster adjustments before game time can feel fairly confident about sitting a player listed as doubtful.
Out: This is the easy one. The guy's definitely not playing Sunday. As painful as it might be to see this designation next to a player on your fantasy roster, at least you know in advance of the game that he's sitting out and can plan accordingly.
Each week in the Saturday blog, we will run down a list of key fantasy players, by position, who appear in the Friday injury report and analyze their chances for playing Sunday. The primary fantasy positions are covered (quarterback, running back, wide receiver and tight end), and this year, a few additional notables at both offensive and defensive positions will be added to the list. We'll cover the players listed as "Out" at the end of the blog as well.
Good luck in Week 1, everyone! May your players stay healthy and win for you.
Quarterbacks
Matt Cassel, Kansas City Chiefs, rib (P):Cassel suffered what the team referred to as a rib injury in the Chiefs' preseason finale. Any injury to the rib cage area makes it painful to do just about any movement, and performance often comes down to pain management. It appears Cassel is managing any discomfort he might have pretty well, considering he was a full participant in practice throughout the week. The probable designation virtually ensures he will play.
Donovan McNabb, Minnesota Vikings, right wrist (P):
McNabb is bound to have various aches and pains on a weekly basis at this stage of his career. Fantasy owners may remember last year (or may choose to forget) when McNabb often appeared on the injury report and may have missed practice time but played anyway. That appears to be the case here as well. A bruised wrist, suffered in a late preseason game, did not keep him out of practice, and it won't keep him off the field.
Running Backs
Arian Foster, Houston Texans, hamstring (Q):Foster's status is shaping up as one of the most dreaded in fantasy: game-time decision. Foster did not formally participate in practice all week but did do running on the side, increasing the intensity of his workouts as the week progressed. Coach Gary Kubiak told reporters Friday that Foster "went extremely hard in his rehab and took a big step forward," while acknowledging the final decision would be made before the game.
For his part, Foster indicated the hamstring was feeling better even with the harder workouts, yet he seemed to foreshadow a scenario where he could sit out the first week. According to the Houston Chronicle, Foster said: "The coaches and I both know ... if you rush back a hamstring it's going to bite you again, and it's going to keep biting you." Considering the Texans have depth at the running back position and will be facing a Colts team without quarterback Peyton Manning at the helm, it would not be surprising if Foster sits. If Foster does not go, Derrick Ward is in line to get the start with Ben Tate available off the bench.
Daniel Thomas, Miami Dolphins, hamstring (Monday night):
Thomas injured his hamstring in practice Wednesday and was held out Thursday as a result. Another result of the injury, according to the Miami Herald, was the Dolphins' re-signing of Larry Johnson, cut just days earlier. Thomas was improved enough to participate on a limited basis Friday but given that the team plays Monday night against New England, it is too soon to know whether he will be able to go. (There is no official designation required yet for teams playing Monday night.) Reggie Bush is likely to see more action, anyway, and the Monday night factor combined with the injury makes Thomas a risky play.
Kahlil Bell, Chicago Bears, knee (P):
Given that Marion Barber has been ruled out for this week's contest with a calf injury, Bell is the definitive backup to Bears starting running back Matt Forte. The expectation is that Forte will get the bulk of the work, but the situation certainly makes Bell's health status more notable. Bell reportedly sprained his ankle in the Bears' final preseason game -- although the official NFL report says knee -- but has practiced fully all week and is expected to be available to play.
Wide Receivers
Sidney Rice, Seattle Seahawks, shoulder (D):Fantasy owners can take a big clue here that Rice will not play this weekend. The doubtful tag is rarely used, and when it is, it typically follows that the player will not suit up. Although specifics are scarce, the Seattle Times notes that Rice hurt his shoulder during a one-on-one drill in training camp. He has been up and down with the injury since but has not practiced since late August. This will be worth monitoring closely next week.
Austin Collie, Indianapolis Colts, foot (Q):
Collie has been bothered somewhat by a foot ailment for a few weeks, but it has not been enough to keep him out of practice. Collie practiced fully each day this week, a good indicator that this is not serious, and despite the questionable tag, he is expected to play. Naturally, fantasy owners should double check the pregame inactive reports to be sure.
Scott Boehm/Getty ImagesChances are good that Miles Austin will be able to play Week 1.
Austin suffered a hamstring strain in mid-August, and the Cowboys have carefully controlled his activity ever since. Even this week, he was kept to limited practice, but it appears much of the limitation was proactive in nature, guarding against a setback before the opener. Austin is expected to play, and while there is no way of ever knowing just how healthy a hamstring is until it's tested, the probable designation is a good sign.
Santonio Holmes, New York Jets, illness (P):
The "illness" that has Holmes on the injury report does not appear too severe, since he practiced in full Friday. The probable tag tells us that the Jets expect to have him on the field Sunday night.
Plaxico Burress, New York Jets, ankle (P):
Burress sprained his ankle early in camp, but it hasn't kept him off the practice field this week. He is expected to play Sunday night.
Derrick Mason, New York Jets, knee (P):
The veteran Mason is bound to appear on the injury report regularly, but we know from his Baltimore days that he shows up on Sundays. After practicing fully all week, he is expected to do the same again for the Jets.
Steve Breaston, Kansas City Chiefs, hamstring, (P):
One of the things we don't like to see is a late addition to the injury report, which Breaston was this week. He was held to limited practice Friday but is listed as probable, so the presumption is that this is not serious. Still, it does at least raise an eyebrow as to how well he'll be able to run Sunday.
Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons, thigh (P):
White suffered a bruised thigh in a preseason game, hence the injury note. That injury happened before the preseason game where he amassed 100 yards, so there's no major concern. He practiced fully all week and is expected to start Sunday.
Mohamed Massaquoi, Cleveland Browns, foot (P):
Massaquoi suffered a small fracture in his left foot, which limited him in the preseason, but this week he has been a full participant in practice each day. The probable tag tells us the Browns plan on having him available.
Steve Smith, Philadelphia Eagles, knee (P):
Smith underwent a microfracture surgery in the offseason and moved from the Giants to the Eagles in August. It seemed unlikely coming off this procedure that Smith would be available early on, but his activity has increased recently. The Eagles strongly hint at him being active, designating him as probable, but it seems unlikely he would see extended playing time this soon.
Patrick Crayton, San Diego Chargers, ankle (Q):
Crayton underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his ankle recently and did not officially practice in the latter half of the week. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports he is unlikely to play.
Anthony Gonzalez, Indianapolis Colts, hamstring (Q):
Gonzalez has dealt with numerous injuries over the past two years, so an early hamstring issue does not help his cause. He practiced on a limited basis all week, but it's unclear just how much action he sees even if he plays.
Tight Ends
Chris Cooley, Washington Redskins, knee (Q):Cooley had offseason arthroscopic surgery on his knee and dealt with persistent swelling during camp. A visit to Dr. James Andrews led to a decrease in activity to allow the knee some recovery time. Cooley remains optimistic that he will play but acknowledges the pain is likely to be there throughout the year. That's concerning.
As for this week, Cooley was limited daily in practice. Although coach Mike Shanahan told the Washington Post that Cooley was "making strides each day," he indicated a decision would not be made as to his status for the game until the weekend. Even if he plays, Cooley is clearly not 100 percent.
Visanthe Shiancoe, Minnesota Vikings, hamstring (P):
Shiancoe battled a hamstring issue throughout training camp, but he was a full participant in practice this week. Shiancoe told 1500ESPN.com he was "about 100 percent," but it's worth noting that this is not his first round of hamstring injuries. And he has yet to test it in a game. It appears he will play Sunday, and the hope is that he gets through the game without a setback.
Benjamin Watson, Cleveland Browns, hip (P):
Watson dealt with a concussion in early August and lately has been working to overcome a hip ailment. He managed to put in a full practice Friday and, with the probable designation, appears on track to play.
Kevin Boss, Oakland Raiders, knee (Monday night):
Boss took a helmet to his left knee in the preseason game against the 49ers and has not practiced since. It certainly does not appear he'll be ready to join the team on Monday night.
Other notables:
Jeff Otah (T), Carolina Panthers, knee (Q):Otah has certainly had his share of leg injuries, and he finds himself on the injury bubble again. He did not practice Friday, but according to the Shelby Star, this was a precautionary move and coach Ron Rivera said "without a doubt" Otah would play. Ongoing swelling could present a problem, but it appears, barring a late setback, that the Panthers expect him to be active.
Justin Tuck (DE), New York Giants, neck (Q):
Tuck suffered a stinger in a preseason game against the Jets and has been up and down since. After not practicing Thursday, he put in limited work Friday, but it appears he will be a game-time decision. Given how much the neck has limited him in the past couple of weeks, it would not be a complete surprise if he sits this one out.
Darrelle Revis, New York Jets, hip (P):
Revis strained a hip flexor during the preseason but has insisted that it is no big deal. Last year, a hamstring kept him out at the start of the season, but it does not appear that will be the case this time. Revis practiced fully all week and is listed as probable for the Sunday night matchup against the Cowboys.
DeMeco Ryans (LB), Houston Texans, elbow/ankle (P):
Ryans suffered a bruised elbow during the preseason but believes it is not a major issue, nor is the Achilles on which he had surgery last year. To his point, Ryans has practiced fully all week. He is expected to play, although how much action he sees is uncertain.
Out
This space is intended for a list of key fantasy players (not including those who have been moved to injured reserve status) who are officially listed as "Out" for the upcoming game.Peyton Manning, QB, Indianapolis Colts, neck: Manning will be out for several months after undergoing a cervical fusion.
Marion Barber, RB, Chicago Bears, calf: Barber, often the victim of leg injuries, is out with a calf strain for at least this week.
Osi Umenyiora, DE, New York Giants, knee: Umenyiora underwent meniscus surgery and is expected to miss at least this week, perhaps longer.
LaRon Landry, S, Washington Redskins, hamstring: An Achilles injury from last season compounded by a hamstring injury during preseason workouts is not a good combination. The recovery process is going slowly and it is unclear when Landry will return.
Be sure to check out "Fantasy Football Now," Sundays on ESPN2 at 11:30 a.m. ET, and "Fantasy Surround" on ESPN.com starting at 10 a.m. ET Sunday for last-minute inactives, rankings, injury impact and more.
Texans live up to promise with rout of Colts
Texans live up to promise with rout of Colts
- Houston Texans quarterback Matt Schaub drops back to pass in the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts Sunday, Sept. 11, 2011, in Houston. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Photo: Associated Press, David J. Phillip / AP
If there was remaining debate about whether the 10th Texans season deserved it status as the most promising in franchise history, those doubts and most others were obliterated Sunday at Reliant Stadium.
The Colts were pounded even more thoroughly.
The Texans demolished the long-time kings of the AFC South and their former tormenters, soaring to a 34-0 lead by halftime - the greatest lead ever taken by the Texans or against the Colts - on their way to a most-convincing 34-7 unveiling for the 2011 season.
While veteran Colts quarterback Kerry Collins could do little to parry the knockout punch to the gut of Peyton Manning's neck surgery, the Texans offense rolled mercilessly through the half while the retooled defense slammed the Colts' running game and kept constant pressure on Collins.
Collins eventually began connecting with one of Manning's familiar targets, particularly Reggie Wayne, but the game had rushed to a rout when he fumbled on consecutive first-quarter plays with the Texans rapidly cashing in on both.
With the Texans leading, 3-0, Antonio Smith blasted Collins and Shaun Cody recovering at the Colts' 12-yard line. Moments later, Derrick Ward bulled his way in from the 1-yard line for the season's first touchdown.
On the next play, Collins lost the snap, Texans rookie J.J. Watt recovered and the Texans again needed just three plays to score. Ben Tate took his turn with a 2-yard run, as the Texans matched their top-scoring first quarter in franchise history.
By then, the Texans had rolled up 124 yards, the Colts three. But the game did not move to complete mismatch until the Texans offense could take a long drive to the end the zone.
That came as soon as they had their hands on the ball again. Matt Schaub had his second pass of the game intercepted when his overthrew Andre Johnson just enough for Johnson to turn it to a tip drill. But he began to heat up on the next two possessions, then completed all five of his passes on the 10-play, 89-yard drive, finishing it with an easy four-yard toss to Johnson for a 24-0 lead.
Another drive ended with Neil Rackers' second short field goal of the half.
The half ended much more spectacularly. The Colts opting to try to mount a two-minute drive and stalling quickly with three-consecutive incomplete passes tried with increasing pressure.
With barely a minute left in the half, Jacoby Jones fielded Pat McAfee's punt on his on 21-yard line, picked up blocked to quickly move to a full sprint. Sherrick McMannis took out McAfee before he could interfere and Jones outran Adrian Moten for the end zone 54 seconds before halftime.
The half ended with the Texas piling up 259 yards and the Colts just 72. Schaub had completed 12 of his 16 passes. Tate and Ward had not matched Arian Foster's 231 opening day romp of last season, but were impressive, with Tate getting 61 on 10 carries in the first half. The defense showed its improvement in the secondary while the front seven controlled the line and Mario Williams looked more comfortable and effective at outside linebacker than threw most of the preseason.
Tate finished with 116 yards on 24 carries. Williams' had a pair of sacks, his 12th game with multiple sacks.
The romp did not extend to the second half. One possession ended with Schaub lobbing a pass intended for Steve Slaton directly to Colts linebacker Gary Brackett and another went nowhere before Tate fumbled. That led to the Colts' first score, with Collins passing to Reggie Wayne for a six-yard touchdown.
By then, the point had been made in a half so spectacular it was enough to get the season off to a flying start. It was not the first to begin impressively, or even with a convincing win against the Colts. But it eclipsed its predecessors, as many will not assume the season will, too.
Buffalo Bills win opener against Kansas City Chiefs
KANSAS CITY - The Buffalo Bills won only four games in 2010, and were opening their 2011 season on the road against defending AFC West champion Kansas City, but all week, the Bills were getting plenty of love as a potential upset winner.
And now we know why. The Bills absolutely dismantled a clearly overrated Chiefs team at Arrowhead Stadium this afternoon by the shocking score of 41-7 in front of an announced crowd of more than 68,000 that was down to a few thousand by the end of the game as the Bills reserves closed it out.
Ryan Fitzpatrick completed 17 of 25 passes for 208 yards and four touchdowns, Fred Jackson rushed for 112 yards, and tight end Scott Chandler caught five passes for 63 yards and two scores against a Kansas City defense that was inept from start to finish.
The Bills forced a fumble on the opening kickoff which rookie Kelvin Sheppard, and less than three minutes later Chandler caught his first TD pass. It was a sign of things to come for the Chiefs.
Late in the first quarter Stevie Johnson made a nice grab of a 27-yard TD pass from Fitzpatrick, one play after David Nelson's 35-yard reception, to make it 14-0.
Rian Lindell kicked two second-quarter field goals, the second coming after Leodis McKelvin recovered a Jamaal Charles fumble at the Chiefs 21, before Kansas City made it's only noise late in the first half. Charles capped an 81-yard drive by catching a 6-yard TD pass from Matt Cassel, but after halftime, the Bills regained control and turned the game into a rout.
Chandler caught an 11-yard TD pass on a third-and-goal play, and after Roscoe Parrish's 28-yard punt return, Donald Jones caught a four-yard TD pass to make it 34-7.
In the fourth, Drayton Florence's interception and 30-yard return led to C.J. Spiller's 9-yard TD run, giving the Bills their first 40-point showing in a season opener since 1992 against the Rams, who were then based in Los Angeles.
And now we know why. The Bills absolutely dismantled a clearly overrated Chiefs team at Arrowhead Stadium this afternoon by the shocking score of 41-7 in front of an announced crowd of more than 68,000 that was down to a few thousand by the end of the game as the Bills reserves closed it out.
Ryan Fitzpatrick completed 17 of 25 passes for 208 yards and four touchdowns, Fred Jackson rushed for 112 yards, and tight end Scott Chandler caught five passes for 63 yards and two scores against a Kansas City defense that was inept from start to finish.
The Bills forced a fumble on the opening kickoff which rookie Kelvin Sheppard, and less than three minutes later Chandler caught his first TD pass. It was a sign of things to come for the Chiefs.
Late in the first quarter Stevie Johnson made a nice grab of a 27-yard TD pass from Fitzpatrick, one play after David Nelson's 35-yard reception, to make it 14-0.
Rian Lindell kicked two second-quarter field goals, the second coming after Leodis McKelvin recovered a Jamaal Charles fumble at the Chiefs 21, before Kansas City made it's only noise late in the first half. Charles capped an 81-yard drive by catching a 6-yard TD pass from Matt Cassel, but after halftime, the Bills regained control and turned the game into a rout.
Chandler caught an 11-yard TD pass on a third-and-goal play, and after Roscoe Parrish's 28-yard punt return, Donald Jones caught a four-yard TD pass to make it 34-7.
In the fourth, Drayton Florence's interception and 30-yard return led to C.J. Spiller's 9-yard TD run, giving the Bills their first 40-point showing in a season opener since 1992 against the Rams, who were then based in Los Angeles.
Detroit 27, Tampa Bay 20: Lions open season of hope with win
TAMPA, Fla. -- Matthew Stafford was exceptional, the defense might have been better and the Detroit Lions validated their sky-high expectations with a 27-20 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in today’s season opener.
Stafford overcame a bout of leg cramps on a sweltering Florida day to throw for 305 yards -- the second 300-yard game of his career -- and three touchdowns in his return from January shoulder surgery.
The third-year quarterback, who missed 13 games last year, completed 24 of 33 passes and had a quarterback rating of 118.9.
Calvin Johnson caught two touchdowns on Tampa cornerback Aqib Talib, beating him for a 36-yard score on a double move midway through the second quarter and outjumping him for a 1-yard pass on the goal line. Tony Scheffler scored on an 11-yard gain.
Johnson, who had 10 catches for 152 yards last year against the Bucs when Talib did not play because of a hip injury, finished with six catches for 88 yards today. He also recovered an on-side kick with 1:34 to play to help seal the victory.
Jahvid Best, who played sparingly in the preseason because of a concussion and was limited last year by turf-toe injuries, ran for 72 yards on 21 carries and had 42 yards receiving.
Tampa scored its first 10 points without the benefit of a first down -- Sammie Stroughter returned a kick 78 yards to the Lions’ 21 to set up a Connor Barth’s 38-yard field goal and Talib returned a Stafford interception (off Will Heller’s fingertips) 28 yards for a touchdown. The Buccaneers had just 4 yards of offense in the first quarter.
The Lions amassed 324 yards in the first half, their most in the opening two quarters since a 339-yard first half against the Vikings in 1997, and outgained the Bucs 431-301 for the day.
Tampa did not have a first down in the first or third quarters.
Stafford overcame a bout of leg cramps on a sweltering Florida day to throw for 305 yards -- the second 300-yard game of his career -- and three touchdowns in his return from January shoulder surgery.
The third-year quarterback, who missed 13 games last year, completed 24 of 33 passes and had a quarterback rating of 118.9.
Calvin Johnson caught two touchdowns on Tampa cornerback Aqib Talib, beating him for a 36-yard score on a double move midway through the second quarter and outjumping him for a 1-yard pass on the goal line. Tony Scheffler scored on an 11-yard gain.
Johnson, who had 10 catches for 152 yards last year against the Bucs when Talib did not play because of a hip injury, finished with six catches for 88 yards today. He also recovered an on-side kick with 1:34 to play to help seal the victory.
Jahvid Best, who played sparingly in the preseason because of a concussion and was limited last year by turf-toe injuries, ran for 72 yards on 21 carries and had 42 yards receiving.
Tampa scored its first 10 points without the benefit of a first down -- Sammie Stroughter returned a kick 78 yards to the Lions’ 21 to set up a Connor Barth’s 38-yard field goal and Talib returned a Stafford interception (off Will Heller’s fingertips) 28 yards for a touchdown. The Buccaneers had just 4 yards of offense in the first quarter.
The Lions amassed 324 yards in the first half, their most in the opening two quarters since a 339-yard first half against the Vikings in 1997, and outgained the Bucs 431-301 for the day.
Tampa did not have a first down in the first or third quarters.
Tampa Bay Bucs drop season-opener to Detroit Lions 27-20
TAMPA — The Detroit Lions used three touchdown passes by Matt Stafford, two to All-Pro wide receiver Calvin Johnson, to spoil Tampa Bay's season opener 27-20 at Raymond James Stadium.
Stafford completed 24 of 33 passes for 305 yards as the Lions built a two-touchdown lead in the second half, then held off a late Bucs rally for the win. The Bucs' only offensive touchdown came with 1:35 left in the game.
The Lions opened the scoring on the game's first drive, marching 76 yards to set up Jason Hanson's 23-yard field goal. Running back Jahvid Best gained 33 all-purpose yards in the drive, and Stafford connected on an 11-yard first down pass to Johnson. But the drive's big play came on a 20-yard end around to Nate Burleson to the Bucs 22. Detroit got as close as the Bucs 4 before the defense stiffened and forced the field goal.
The Bucs bounced right back, thanks to Sammie Stroughter's 78-yard kickoff return to the Lions 21. The Bucs gained only 1 yard in three plays, however, setting up Connor Barth's 38-yard kick to tie the score at 3-3.
Tampa Bay took its first lead of the game just three plays later when Stafford's pass bounced off the hands of former Bucs tight end Will Heller and was picked off by cornerback Aqib Talib, who missed the entire preseason with a hamstring injury. Talib ran untouched down the sideline 28 yards for the touchdown.
Detroit again mounted a strong drive on its next posssession, with Stafford completing passes of 16 yards to Maurice Morris, 11 yards to Burleson and 19 yards to tight end Brandon Pettigrew, moving the ball to the Bucs 14. But a short run and two incomplete passes again sent Hanson on the field, with his 28-yard kick pulling the Lions within 10-6.
The Lions regained the lead, again thanks to Stafford's strong passing. He opened the drive with a 22-yard pass to Johnson, added a pair of 8-yard connections to Pettigrew and Morris, then went back to Johnson for the 36-yard touchdown. Johnson got behind Talib down the right sideline and Stafford lobbed a perfect pass over the leaping Talib for the easy score and a 13-10 lead.
Detroit extended its lead to 20-10 on another sustained drive, marching 84 yards in 8 plays. Burleson picked up 29 yards on a third and six to keep the drive alive early, and Stafford added passes of 14 yards to Rashied Davis and 25 yards to Pettigrew before finding Scheffler for the 11-yard touchdown pass with 1:16 left in the first half.
The Bucs offense had some success with its 2-minute offense, driving to the Lions 13 to set up another Barth field goal as the first half expired. Josh Freeman completed 5 of 6 passes for 54 yards to start the drive, and Detroit was called for unsportsmanlike conduct for another 13 yards, allowing Barth's kick to cut the Lions lead to 20-13.
Detroit picked up where they left off to open the second half, this time going 70 yards in 11 plays, with Johnson again getting the touchdown. Talib was a victim twice in the drive, first getting flagged for illegal contact on a third down play that would have resulted in a Lions punt. And after Detroit marched to a first-and-goal at the 1, Talib was unable to outjump Johnson for the ball in the right corner of the end zone, extending the Lions lead to 27-13.
Tampa Bay attempted a late comeback. But Earnest Graham was stopped short on fourth-and-1 at the Lions 11 with 7:45 to play. And although Freeman led the Bucs on a late scoring drive -- hitting Mike Williams for a 5-yard touchdown with 1:35 to play -- the Lions recovered the ensuing onside kick to consume Tampa Bay's remaining timeouts, and the Bucs weren't able to put together a tying drive in the final 1:07.
Stafford completed 24 of 33 passes for 305 yards as the Lions built a two-touchdown lead in the second half, then held off a late Bucs rally for the win. The Bucs' only offensive touchdown came with 1:35 left in the game.
The Lions opened the scoring on the game's first drive, marching 76 yards to set up Jason Hanson's 23-yard field goal. Running back Jahvid Best gained 33 all-purpose yards in the drive, and Stafford connected on an 11-yard first down pass to Johnson. But the drive's big play came on a 20-yard end around to Nate Burleson to the Bucs 22. Detroit got as close as the Bucs 4 before the defense stiffened and forced the field goal.
The Bucs bounced right back, thanks to Sammie Stroughter's 78-yard kickoff return to the Lions 21. The Bucs gained only 1 yard in three plays, however, setting up Connor Barth's 38-yard kick to tie the score at 3-3.
Tampa Bay took its first lead of the game just three plays later when Stafford's pass bounced off the hands of former Bucs tight end Will Heller and was picked off by cornerback Aqib Talib, who missed the entire preseason with a hamstring injury. Talib ran untouched down the sideline 28 yards for the touchdown.
Detroit again mounted a strong drive on its next posssession, with Stafford completing passes of 16 yards to Maurice Morris, 11 yards to Burleson and 19 yards to tight end Brandon Pettigrew, moving the ball to the Bucs 14. But a short run and two incomplete passes again sent Hanson on the field, with his 28-yard kick pulling the Lions within 10-6.
The Lions regained the lead, again thanks to Stafford's strong passing. He opened the drive with a 22-yard pass to Johnson, added a pair of 8-yard connections to Pettigrew and Morris, then went back to Johnson for the 36-yard touchdown. Johnson got behind Talib down the right sideline and Stafford lobbed a perfect pass over the leaping Talib for the easy score and a 13-10 lead.
Detroit extended its lead to 20-10 on another sustained drive, marching 84 yards in 8 plays. Burleson picked up 29 yards on a third and six to keep the drive alive early, and Stafford added passes of 14 yards to Rashied Davis and 25 yards to Pettigrew before finding Scheffler for the 11-yard touchdown pass with 1:16 left in the first half.
The Bucs offense had some success with its 2-minute offense, driving to the Lions 13 to set up another Barth field goal as the first half expired. Josh Freeman completed 5 of 6 passes for 54 yards to start the drive, and Detroit was called for unsportsmanlike conduct for another 13 yards, allowing Barth's kick to cut the Lions lead to 20-13.
Detroit picked up where they left off to open the second half, this time going 70 yards in 11 plays, with Johnson again getting the touchdown. Talib was a victim twice in the drive, first getting flagged for illegal contact on a third down play that would have resulted in a Lions punt. And after Detroit marched to a first-and-goal at the 1, Talib was unable to outjump Johnson for the ball in the right corner of the end zone, extending the Lions lead to 27-13.
Tampa Bay attempted a late comeback. But Earnest Graham was stopped short on fourth-and-1 at the Lions 11 with 7:45 to play. And although Freeman led the Bucs on a late scoring drive -- hitting Mike Williams for a 5-yard touchdown with 1:35 to play -- the Lions recovered the ensuing onside kick to consume Tampa Bay's remaining timeouts, and the Bucs weren't able to put together a tying drive in the final 1:07.
Rapid Reaction: Bears 30, Falcons 12
Dennis Wierzbicki/USPresswireThe Bears' Brian Urlacher is congratulated by Chris Harris after Urlacher scored a touchdown in the third quarter.In addition, the club picked up its NFL-best 62nd home-opening win and has now triumphed in five of its past six openers at Soldier Field.
Let’s take a closer look at what transpired in Sunday’s lopsided affair:
What it means: Chicago showcased dominance against a Falcons team considered to be among the NFL’s best, and that bodes well considering the team travels to New Orleans next Sunday before facing the Packers at home the following week.
As important as the actual win was, the Bears answered questions along the offensive line, and receiver positions, while the defense proved that despite the unit’s overall age, it’s still one of the league’s most dominant groups. The team suffered two injuries in receiver Roy Williams (groin) and right guard Lance Louis (ankle), but came out of Sunday’s game relatively healthy. Besides that, both Williams and Louis have capable backups in Johnny Knox and Chris Spencer who can fill in next week with little-to-no drop off in performance.
Sack parade: The Bears played with just three defensive ends (Julius Peppers, Nick Reed, and Israel Idonije) on the active roster, but that didn’t keep the defensive line from racking up five sacks.
Peppers and Henry Melton contributed two sacks apiece, and new acquisition Amobi Okoye contributed another.
The team came into the season with question marks about potential sack producers outside of Peppers, but Melton and Okoye proved capable of providing plenty of pressure from their inside defensive tackle spots.
It’s worth mentioning, however, that the Falcons played without two of their starters along the offensive line. So while Chicago showed promise with the pressure, the front-four players still have plenty left to prove.
Classic Peanut: Bears cornerback Charles “Peanut” Tillman proved his mettle as the team’s turnover artist in the first quarter by punching the ball loose on Michael Turner run in the first quarter. While attempting to tackle Turner, Tillman poked the ball out with Peppers recovering.
The forced fumble marked Tillman’s 25th nine seasons, giving him the most since 2003 among NFL cornerbacks.
Turnover party: The Bears forced three turnovers through the first three quarters, and scored points off two of them, courtesy of linebacker Brian Urlacher.
Urlacher made a diving interception in the first quarter, which the Bears turned into a 56-yard scoring strike from Jay Cutler to running back Matt Forte just three plays later. Then in the third quarter, Urlacher brought one in for a score himself by scooping a fumble forced by Peppers and returning it 12 yards to make the score 30-6.
Quick strike: The Bears scored touchdowns on offense and defense in a span of 57 seconds.
Matt Spaeth caught a 1-yard touchdown with 6:55 left in the third quarter, and three plays later Urlacher scored one for the defense with his 12-yard fumble recovery return when Peppers sacked Ryan for an 11-yard loss.
Interestingly, the Bears were the quickest-scoring team in the NFL last year. The team’s average scoring drives in 2010 were 3 minutes and 2 seconds.
OL still developing: The offensive line gave up three sacks over the first two quarters, but as Cutler anticipated, the unit adjusted in the second half.
Still, Cutler appeared to take too much punishment. Several times Falcons defenders converged on Cutler for crushing shots just as the quarterback delivered the ball. Earlier in the week, Cutler anticipated the offensive line would experience some early struggles before finally settling in, which seems to be what transpired.
Louis delayed the adjustment period by leaving the game in the second quarter with a right ankle injury. Veteran center Chris Spencer stepped in as Louis’ replacement. Louis’ availability for next week’s game is uncertain, but the club isn’t concerned with Spencer assuming the starting role because he’s started in 70 of the 83 games he’s played.
Injury update: Louis suffered an ankle injury near the end of the first half, and his status for next week wasn’t immediately known. Williams sustained a groin injury in the second half, and was held out for the duration.
Browns watch Bengals win season-opener 27-17
It began ugly. It ended bizarrely. In between, there were brief moments of promise from the Browns in Pat Shurmur's head coaching debut, but not enough to hold off the Cincinnati Bengals as they snagged a 27-17 victory over the Browns on Sunday afternoon at Cleveland Browns Stadium.
The Bengals' back-up quarterback tossed a 41-yard touchdown to the star rookie receiver, A.J. Green, with 4:28 remaining -- on play where the Browns defense had barely broken its huddle before the ball was snapped. Green had no defender within 10 yards of him when he caught the pass from Bruce Gradkowski, a Toledo product who was called into action only after the Bengals lost their starter to injury at halftime.
The touchdown provided the bookend of Bengals' dominance, as Cincinnati jumped to a 13-0 lead in the first quarter, thanks mostly to seven Browns penalties in that first period. Bengals running back Cedric Benson rattled off 34 yards in the first quarter, finishing with 121 in the game.
The Browns stopped committing the unforced errors in the second quarter, however, and began scoring points, instead. Quarterback Colt McCoy threw touchdown passes to tight ends Ben Watson and Evan Moore, helping the Browns to a 14-13 advantage by halftime.
And after halftime, the Browns learned they'd acquired a bit of good fortune: starting quarterback Andy Dalton would be out of the game with a right wrist injury, sustained after a hard hit by Browns defensive lineman Phil Taylor.
Until the final quarter, the Browns held steady behind strong play from defensive back Joe Haden (five pass break-ups) and linebacker D'Qwell Jackson (two sacks). Phil Dawson added a 20-yard field goal.
Then somehow, the Browns lost their focus. The defense was not set on the game-winning touchdown, Gradkowski capitalized on the missed focus, and the Bengals snagged the season-opening victory.
McCoy was 19-of-40 for 213 yards and two touchdowns, Peyton Hillis rushed for 57 yards on 15 carries for the Browns.
The Bengals' back-up quarterback tossed a 41-yard touchdown to the star rookie receiver, A.J. Green, with 4:28 remaining -- on play where the Browns defense had barely broken its huddle before the ball was snapped. Green had no defender within 10 yards of him when he caught the pass from Bruce Gradkowski, a Toledo product who was called into action only after the Bengals lost their starter to injury at halftime.
The touchdown provided the bookend of Bengals' dominance, as Cincinnati jumped to a 13-0 lead in the first quarter, thanks mostly to seven Browns penalties in that first period. Bengals running back Cedric Benson rattled off 34 yards in the first quarter, finishing with 121 in the game.
The Browns stopped committing the unforced errors in the second quarter, however, and began scoring points, instead. Quarterback Colt McCoy threw touchdown passes to tight ends Ben Watson and Evan Moore, helping the Browns to a 14-13 advantage by halftime.
And after halftime, the Browns learned they'd acquired a bit of good fortune: starting quarterback Andy Dalton would be out of the game with a right wrist injury, sustained after a hard hit by Browns defensive lineman Phil Taylor.
Until the final quarter, the Browns held steady behind strong play from defensive back Joe Haden (five pass break-ups) and linebacker D'Qwell Jackson (two sacks). Phil Dawson added a 20-yard field goal.
Then somehow, the Browns lost their focus. The defense was not set on the game-winning touchdown, Gradkowski capitalized on the missed focus, and the Bengals snagged the season-opening victory.
McCoy was 19-of-40 for 213 yards and two touchdowns, Peyton Hillis rushed for 57 yards on 15 carries for the Browns.
Troy Polamalu, Steelers agree on contract extension
Troy Polamalu, Steelers agree on contract extension
The team provided visual proof of the transaction, posting a photo of
By Bob Leverone, AP
Earlier this week, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reported that both sides were looking to get a deal done before the start of the season. The paper said they were going to hold off negotiations until the end of the 2011 season, but Steelers team president Art Rooney, "had a change of heart and decided to give it one last shot."
If the talks were weighing on Polamalu, it didn't show. He declined to comment on the need to get a deal done earlier in the week, saying he'd prefer to keep all discussions between his agent Marvin Demoff and the team quiet so that things don't get "misconstrued."
The Steelers also signed linebackers, and Polamalu's fellow defensive starters, LaMarr Woodley and Lawrence Timmons to contract extensions during the offseason.
Polamalu, the 2010 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, finished the season with seven interceptions, 64 tackles and a sack. But he was slowed during the playoffs with an Achilles injury.
Polamalu paced himself during camp, though he showed flashes of brilliance in a preseason win over Philadelphia three weeks ago, intercepting Michael Vick and going on a freewheeling return that included a fake pitch and an abrupt ending after Vick drilled Polamalu in the knees.
Cornerback Ike Taylor has been so impressed during camp he felt the need to declare "Troy's back." Actually, Taylor said, he never went anywhere in the first place.
"Sure, he missed a couple games," Taylor told the Associated Press, "but the games he was in there, he had like seven picks in six games.
"So, Troy is Troy."
Baltimore Ravens assistant coach Andy Moeller suspended for two games
Baltimore Ravens assistant coach Andy Moeller suspended for two games
Patrick Semansky/AP - Ravens offensive line coach Andy Moeller will miss the first two games this season after he violated the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
In April, he was sentenced to two years of supervised probation after being found guilty of driving while impaired by alcohol.
Todd Washington, a former NFL player who was hired as the Ravens’ assistant line coach this year, will take over for Moeller during the suspension.
“Todd’s done a very good job,” Harbaugh said. “Obviously, it’s always a group effort. Andy set things up very well.”
Moeller, 47, was stopped Sept. 18 by a state trooper on the outer loop of the Beltway at Greenspring Avenue after going 70 mph in a 55-mph zone, according to police records. He had a strong odor of alcohol and stumbled during a sobriety test, according to the statement of facts presented by the prosecution.
This marked the third time since December 2007 that Moeller had been arrested on alcohol-related charges. He was acquitted of driving while under the influence in May and was given probation for driving while visibly impaired in Ann Arbor, Mich., in 2007.
Moeller was promoted from assistant offensive line coach when the Ravens fired John Matsko four days after the playoff loss at Pittsburgh.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti indicated at the end of the season that this is Moeller’s “final chance.”
“He’s either going to get it under control or he’s going to spend a lifetime of misery like other people that are affected by that,” Bisciotti said in January. “We’re behind him as long as he earns trust and continues to earn that trust. But he knows he’s one step away from not being a Raven and then probably not being in the NFL at all.”
Ravens center Matt Birk said he was surprised to hear about Moeller’s suspension, but he didn’t feel there would be many changes with Washington stepping in.
“It’s pretty much the same,” Birk said. “They’re different personalities, different guys, but coming into training camp, Coach Moeller and Coach Washington are on the same page on how we do things around here.”
Birk appears ready to start
Birk has fully participated in the Ravens’ last three days of practice — a promising sign that the 14-year veteran will start Sunday.
Birk, who underwent surgery on his left knee on Aug. 3, declined to put a percentage on the knee’s strength and stability, but he sounded optimistic that he would suit up against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“I don’t like to do the percentages or anything,” he said. “I’ll keep treating it and [get] it to feel as good as it can on Sunday. And then we’ll just give it everything we’ve got.”
Starting left guard Ben Grubbs did not practice because of what the team has described as a thigh injury, but he is listed as probable. Backup inside linebacker Jason Phillips is questionable despite overcoming a concussion and fully practicing on Friday.
“He was good today,” Harbaugh said of Phillips after practice. “He banged his nose. He’s got such a great-looking nose anyway. But he’s okay.”
The Steelers have an injury concern in wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery, who did not practice for the second consecutive day. Cotchery, who has been bothered by a hamstring injury, is listed as doubtful. Pittsburgh ruled out backup linebacker Chris Carter (hamstring).
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