NFL 2008 RSS
The San Diego Chargers - New Orleans Saints meeting is the first of at least three more annual regular-season
NFL games that will be played in the United Kingdom from this year through 2010.
It follows a sold-out game at Wembley last October 28 between the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants that was
enthusiastically received by fans, media and the participating teams. Some people – like San Diego Chargers
running back LA DAINIAN TOMLINSON -- believe that the win (13-10) by the Giants in that game gave them a
midseason boost that helped propel them through their Super Bowl XLII victory.
"I honestly think the London game was why the Giants were successful last year," says Tomlinson, who visited
Wembley this spring. "They went to London and it kind of changed their season. Hopefully, London brings us
that."
Some of the key NFL 2008 Week 8 games:
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-4) at NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-4) (London, England)
Welcome, lads!
Aside from the international impact, this one comes packed with scenarios, not the least of which is that it could well finish in a point-and-yardage explosion.
It will be the first time Saints QB DREW BREES faces his former team (he signed with the Saints as a UFA in 2006). His understudy for his final two years in San Diego? His peer Sunday, Chargers QB PHILIP RIVERS. They rank first (Brees; 2,224) and fourth (Rivers; 1,697) in NFL passing yardage this season. "We had a good relationship," says Rivers. "Drew taught me about following a set routine, win or lose, the whole season. That is key because it is a long year."
London fans will see the prototypical types of football running backs, led by the elusive Tomlinson and pounder DEUCE MC ALLISTER of the Saints, who should see increased action with the loss of RB REGGIE BUSH (knee).
Breesing Around the World: This will be Brees’ third overseas trip this year. This spring, he made a USO tour to Okinawa (and saw where his grandfather landed 60 years ago during World War II), and partook in an NFL-USO trip in July with NFL Commissioner ROGER GOODELL and Giants DE OSI UMENYIORA to Kuwait, Iraq and Afghanistan.
NEW YORK GIANTS (5-1) at PITTSBURGH STEELERS (5-1)
Winning again and as close to undefeated as you can get!
A good matchup of storied NFL clubs (the Steelers will wear their classic 1950-60s black jerseys with gold helmets) who,
with Buffalo, share the second-best records in the league. And are there captivating storylines in this one!
Take the quarterbacks – ELI MANNING of New York and BEN ROETHLISBERGER of Pittsburgh. Both are 2004 first-round draft choices who have won Super Bowls (they faced off in their rookie year, with Roethlisberger winning, 33-30). Or the wide receivers. It’s the Steelers’ SANTONIO HOLMES – who leads all NFL receivers in career yards-per-catch (17.3; minimum 100 receptions) against the man he basically replaced, PLAXICO BURRESS. "It’s going to be fun," says Burress of his first game against his former team. "I know their defense. They are going to come from everywhere. They’re going to be fired up at home."
Then it’s the RBs. It’ll be New York’s BRANDON JACOBS ("He’s a Mack truck coming downhill," says Giants LB ANTONIO PIERCE) vs. MEWELDE MOORE, signed in the offseason "in case," as he says, starter WILLIE PARKER got hurt (he did). Moore comes off a 120-yard rush game (plus five catches) with three TDs.
Eli & The Boys: Manning and his five offensive linemen have started the Giants’ last 22 regular-season games together – the longest such active streak in the NFL.
ARIZONA CARDINALS (4-2) at CAROLINA PANTHERS (5-2)
One’s coming off a bye, the other’s going into it – all the more reason to win.
The Cardinals – fresh from their bye -- are still exuberant from their Week 6 overtime win over Dallas. But they know that great feeling can be quickly dashed with a loss on Sunday. For the Panthers, the last thing they want is a loss that will last two weeks. "Sunday is huge," says Carolina RB BRAD HOOVER.
This could be a big air day. The Cards expect to get WR ANQUAN BOLDIN back from injury to pair with LARRY FITZGERALD, who ranks third in the league in receiving yards (546). In Boldin’s absence, second-year pro STEVE BREASTON has proven himself with 24 catches for 301 yards. Of course, the Panthers – 4-0 at home this year after going 2-6 in 2007-- do not lack in this area, trotting out veterans MUHSIN MUHAMMAD and STEVE SMITH, who comes off a 122-yard day, including a remarkable 39-yard TD catch after hitting the turf in the midst of double-coverage.
Or the ground attack could take over. Arizona RBs EDGERRIN JAMES and rookie TIM HIGHTOWER have rushed for a combined eight touchdowns, while Carolina’s DeANGELO WILLIAMS and rookie JONATHAN STEWART share seven.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (5-2) at DALLAS COWBOYS (4-3)
Time to keep it going. Time to get it going.
The Bucs seem to be gaining momentum. Coach JON GRUDEN has named QB JEFF GARCIA (26 of 37, 310 yards last Sunday night) the starter. EARNEST GRAHAM has switched to fullback while leading the team in rushing (456 yards). And former Cowboys second-round pick ANTONIO BRYANT tops the club in catches (31) and receiving yards (406).
The Cowboys, meanwhile, have lost three of their past four after winning their first three. "It’s time for us to come together, and not only find solutions, but find a cure," says Dallas LB BRADIE JAMES. "And the only cure is winning."
A matchup to watch Sunday will be Dallas’ No. 3 pass offense against an opportunistic, speedy secondary. At QB for the Cowboys will be either former Buc BRAD JOHNSON (who led Tampa Bay to its Super Bowl XXXVII title; "A great Buccaneer," says Gruden) or TONY ROMO. Eight Bucs have at least one interception this year, the most such players on any team. Tampa Bay’s defense has limited teams to 42 drives without a first down, tops in the league.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-3) at TENNESSEE TITANS (6-0) (Monday night, ESPN, 8:30 PM ET)
A three-game lead -- but it’s not the team you’d expect.
It’s the 6-0 Titans on top in the AFC South by three games, no less, over Indianapolis. These are the same Colts who have won the division five of the six years it has existed. From 2003-05, Indy swept the season series with Tennessee, but the clubs have split the past two years, with no game being decided by more than six points.
The Titans, operating quietly but efficiently under 14-year QB KERRY COLLINS – who has been sacked only once this season – have won an NFL-best nine in a row going back to last year. Their defense is ferocious, allowing a league-low 11.0 points per game.
The question is, though, which Indianapolis team will they face – the PEYTON MANNING-to-MARVIN HARRISON-and-REGGIE WAYNE Colts who handled Baltimore 31-3 in Week 6, or the 34-14 losers to Green Bay of last Sunday? Keep this in mind: both times Indy has lost this year, they won the next week.
Battle to watch: Manning, with two interceptions returned for TDs against Green Bay, vs. CB CORTLAND FINNEGAN and S MICHAEL GRIFFIN, tied for the league lead with four pickoffs apiece.
NFL 2008 Week 8: AFC ROOKIES SHINE AS MIDPOINT NEARS
For most NFL rookies, their college seasons were dwindling down a year ago at this time. One year later, the midpoint of the NFL season is still ahead of them, as well as the chance to prove themselves even more.
On AFC teams, rookies can be found starting at quarterback in Baltimore (JOE FLACCO); racing towards the end zone in Houston, Oakland and Tennessee at running back (STEVE SLATON, DARREN MC FADDEN and CHRIS JOHNSON); protecting quarterbacks and paving the road for rushers in Kansas City and Miami (tackles BRANDEN ALBERT and JAKE LONG); hauling in catches in Denver (wide receiver EDDIE ROYAL); and rushing the passer in Cleveland (linebacker ALEX HALL).
A team-by-team look at some of this year’s outstanding AFC rookies:
BALTIMORE: The second quarterback taken in the NFL Draft, JOE FLACCO (No. 18, Delaware) has started all six games for the 3-3 Ravens and has fans excited. Flacco became only the third rookie quarterback in NFL history to start the season at 2-0 (JOHN ELWAY, 1983; RYAN LEAF, 1998). . . Second-round running back RAY RICE (Rutgers) has provided depth behind starter WILLIS MC GAHEE. Rice has played in all six games with two starts and totaled 41 carries for 121 yards (3.0 avg.). . . Safety TOM ZBIKOWSKI (third round, Notre Dame) has been a force on special teams, leading the club with 10 tackles.
BUFFALO: First-round cornerback LEODIS MC KELVIN (No. 11, Troy) has experienced success through his first six games for the first-place Bills. McKelvin has filled in for injured starters in the Bills’ secondary and has totaled nine tackles, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery. On special teams, he has returned 19 kickoffs for 468 yards (24.6 average) and two punts for 26 yards (13.0 average). . . Targeted to utilize his 6-5, 221-pound frame, wide receiver JAMES HARDY (second round, Indiana) has totaled five receptions for 47 yards (9.4 average) with one touchdown.
CINCINNATI: Defensive members of the Bengals’ 2008 rookie class are leading the charge. Sixth-round safety COREY LYNCH has played in all six games. The Appalachian State product has notched three tackles with one interception and totaled four tackles on special teams. Third-round defensive tackle PAT SIMS (Auburn) has been praised by coaches. The Fort Lauderdale native has totaled 12 tackles in the past two games.
CLEVELAND: Seventh-round linebacker ALEX HALL (St. Augustine) is one of the standouts of the Browns’ five-member draft class. The former Division II product has started two games at outside linebacker and leads NFL rookies with three sacks. . . Sixth-rounder AHTYBA RUBIN has added depth up front, playing in three games. The 6-2, 330-pound defensive lineman has three tackles.
DENVER: Second-round wide receiver EDDIE ROYAL (Virginia Tech) has been a key downfield weapon for the AFC’s top-ranked offense. Royal has 39 receptions for 392 yards with two touchdowns and is on pace (89) to set the rookie franchise record in receptions (VANCE JOHNSON, 51 in 1985), receiving yards (896; MARK JACKSON, 738 in 1986) and touchdown receptions (5; TONY SCHEFFLER, 4 in 2006 and RICK MASSIE, 4 in 1987). . . First-round tackle RYAN CLADY (No. 12, Boise State) has started all seven games at left tackle while protecting quarterback JAY CUTLER.
HOUSTON: Selected in the third round from West Virginia, running back STEVE SLATON has made an instant impact for the Texans. In six games, Slaton has totaled 423 rushing yards and is on pace (1,128) to surpass DOMANICK WILLIAMS (1,031 in 2003) for most yards by a rookie running back in franchise history. . . First-round selection DUANE BROWN (No. 26, Virginia Tech) won the starting job in training camp and has started all six games at left tackle for the NFL’s fifth-ranked offense. . . Cornerback ANTWAUN MOLDEN (third round, Eastern Kentucky) has played a pivotal role on special teams, ranking second on the club with 11 tackles.
INDIANAPOLIS: Without a first-round selection in the 2008 draft, the Colts picked offensive lineman MIKE POLLAK (second round, Arizona State), who has started the past three games at right guard. Seventh-rounder JAMEY RICHARD (Buffalo) has started at left guard the past three games. With JEFF SATURDAY sidelined by injury, Richard started the first two games of the season at center. . . Undrafted free-agent ERIC FOSTER (Rutgers) has played in all six games with four starts at defensive tackle and has totaled 23 tackles. . . Safety JAMIE SILVA (Boston College) was also signed as an undrafted free agent and has contributed five tackles in four games on special teams.
JACKSONVILLE: DERRICK HARVEY (No. 8 overall) was the first defensive end drafted in the first round by the Jaguars in franchise history and is establishing a comfort level in defensive coordinator GREGG WILLIAMS’ defense. The University of Florida standout has started the past three games and has six tackles with one interception for the season. Second-round defensive end QUENTIN GROVES (Auburn), has seven tackles, 1.5 sacks and one forced fumble. Groves aims to challenge TONY BRACKENS (7.0 in 1996) for most sacks by a Jaguars rookie.
KANSAS CITY: Entering 2008 as the league’s youngest team on Kickoff Weekend, six Chiefs rookies have started at least one game. The Chiefs are building upfront on both sides of the ball with defensive tackle GLENN DORSEY (No. 5, LSU) and left tackle BRANDEN ALBERT (No. 15, Virginia). Dorsey has totaled 22 tackles and one forced fumble. Rookie cornerbacks BRANDON FLOWERS (second round, Virginia Tech) and BRANDON CARR (fifth round, Grand Valley State) are settling in as starters at both cornerback positions. Carr has registered 30 tackles, one interception and two fumble recoveries. Flowers has totaled 28 tackles with a fumble recovery.
MIAMI: The No. 1 pick in the 2008 draft, JAKE LONG (Michigan) has made an immediate impact for the Dolphins. He has started all six games at left tackle while protecting quarterback CHAD PENNINGTON and paving the way for running backs RONNIE BROWN and RICKY WILLIAMS. . . On the defensive side of the ball, defensive end KENDALL LANGFORD (third round, Hampton) has played in all six games with five starts and has totaled 13 tackles with two sacks. Second-round selection PHILLIP MERLING (Clemson) also has played in all six games with two starts and has added 13 tackles with one sack and a fumble recovery.
NEW ENGLAND: The first linebacker drafted in the first round under BILL BELICHICK, JEROD MAYO (No. 10, Tennessee) has been productive since arriving in New England. The 6-1, 242-pound talent has started all six games and leads the team in tackles with 48. . . The Patriots provided depth at the cornerback position with second-round pick TERRENCE WHEATLEY (Colorado) and fourth-rounder JONATHAN WILHITE (Auburn). Wide receiver MATTHEW SLATER (fifth round, UCLA), the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer JACKIE SLATER, has contributed on special teams with three tackles.
NEW YORK: On a veteran defensive unit, first-round pick VERNON GHOLSTON (No. 6, Ohio State) has found his niche on special teams. The 6-3, 264-pound linebacker has totaled six tackles on specials with one fumble recovery. The Jets’ second first-round selection DUSTIN KELLER (No. 30, Purdue) has played in all six games with one start and leads the team’s tight ends with two touchdowns. Fourth-round pick DWIGHT LOWERY (San Jose State) has made a favorable impression on head coach ERIC MANGINI and his staff. The rookie cornerback has started all six games at cornerback and ranks fourth on the team with 29 tackles.
OAKLAND: The first running back taken off the board in the 2008 draft, DARREN MC FADDEN (No. 4, Arkansas) was the third running back selected in franchise history in the first-round (MARCUS ALLEN, 1982; NAPOLEON KAUFMAN, 1995). The versatile runner has 341 rushing yards and is on pace (909) to surpass Allen (697 in 1982) for most rushing yards by a Raiders rookie. . . Defensive end TREVOR SCOTT (sixth round, Buffalo) made an impact last week, recording the first two sacks of his career.
PITTSBURGH: For the first-place Steelers, running back RASHARD MENDENHALL (No. 23, Illinois) totaled 19 carries for 58 yards (3.1 average) before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. Second-round wide receiver LIMAS SWEED (Texas) made his NFL debut last week and is developing as an NFL receiver behind veterans HINES WARD and SANTONIO HOLMES. . . On special teams, linebacker DONOVAN WOODS (Oklahoma State), signed as an undrafted free agent, has totaled five tackles.
SAN DIEGO: In the 2008 draft, the Chargers took aim at the defensive side of the ball by selecting cornerback ANTOINE CASON (first round, Arizona). The Long Beach, California native has totaled 22 tackles, one forced fumble and an interception. . . Running back-fullback JACOB HESTER (second round) has played in all seven games. The LSU product has seen extended time on special teams, totaling five tackles, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
TENNESSEE: The NFL’s September Offensive Rookie of the Month, running back CHRIS JOHNSON (No. 24, East Carolina) has combined with veteran LEN DALE WHITE for a productive running attack. The AFC’s leading rusher (549 yards) is on pace to set a franchise record for most rushing yards by a rookie running back (1,464; EARL CAMPBELL, 1,450 in 1978). . . Defensive lineman JASON JONES (second round, Eastern Michigan) has added depth to an experienced DL. Jones has played in all six games with one start and has notched 24 tackles with 1.5 sacks.
NFL 2008 Week 8: Rookies on the Rise - NFC Newcomers Make Major Impact
As the NFL 2008 season nears the mid-point and teams aim for a second-half push, rookies around the league are playing vital roles.
In Chicago, MATT FORTÉ, a second-round pick from Tulane, has developed into an every-down running back. Forté leads NFL rookies with 738 yards from scrimmage, six touchdowns and 37 first downs.
"Any time you've got a playmaker on the field, it opens things up," says Chicago offensive coordinator RON TURNER. "Matt Forté has shown that he is a good football player. He can run the ball and he can do things out of the backfield."
A team-by-team look at some of this year’s outstanding NFC rookies:
ARIZONA: Running back TIM HIGHTOWER has proven to be a dangerous red-zone weapon for the Cardinals. The fifth-round pick out of Richmond is tied for the league lead among NFL rookies with five rushing touchdowns. Hightower is within striking distance of the club record for touchdowns in a season (14, RB JOHN DAVID CROW). The Waldorf, Maryland native is tied for the NFL lead in third-and-one rushing (seven for seven). . . . . . First-round pick cornerback DOMINIQUE RODGERS-CROMARTIE has seen action in all six games, including two starts, registering five tackles and six passes defensed.
ATLANTA: The draft’s third overall selection MATT RYAN has lead the Falcons to a 4-2 record with a NFL rookie-leading 82.9 passer rating. The Boston College product has helped guide Atlanta to a 3-0 record at home, where he has completed 43 of 61 passes (70.5 pct.) for 654 yards and three touchdowns against no interceptions. Ryan’s 121.9 home passer rating stands third in the league. . . . . . The club’s second first-round pick SAM BAKER (No. 21), has started five games at left tackle. The Tustin, California native is part of an offensive unit that ranks second in the league with 163.0 rushing yards per game. . . . . . Wide receiver HARRY DOUGLAS (third round, Louisville) has six third-down receptions.
CAROLINA: First-round pick JONATHAN STEWART (No. 13), ranks tied for first among NFL rookies with five rushing touchdowns. The University Oregon product’s 352 rushing yards are second among NFC rookie running backs. . . . . . The club’s second first-round pick, JEFF OTAH (No. 19), has started four games at tackle. . . Safety CHARLES GODFREY, a third-round choice from Iowa, has started all seven games and has registered 34 tackles, one sack and two passes defensed.
CHICAGO: Second-round pick MATT FORTÉ, the 44th overall selection from Tulane, is second among rookie running backs with 515 yards rushing and is on pace to become the fourth Bears running back to total over 1,000 yards in a rookie season. Forté’s 738 yards from scrimmage (515 rush, 223 rec.) rank first among rookies and sixth overall. . . . . . Defensive tackle MARCUS HARRISON, the team’s third-round selection, has played in all seven games and is tied for the lead among NFC rookies with 2.0 sacks. . . . . . Seeing the first action of his career last week, cornerback ZACKARY BOWMAN (fifth round, Nebraska) recorded an interception and recovered a fumble for a touchdown.
DALLAS: First-round running back FELIX JONES (Arkansas) has been filling up highlight reels as the 22nd overall selection leads the NFL with an 8.9 yards per rush average, including a season-long 60-yard touchdown run in Week 3 . . . . . . Rookie cornerbacks MIKE JENKINS (first round, South Florida) and ORLANDO SCANDRICK (fifth round, Boise State) have seen action in all seven Dallas games, with Jenkins making his first career start last week at St. Louis.
DETROIT: Offensively, the Lions have received contributions from third-round running back KEVIN SMITH (Central Florida), first-round tackle GOSDER CHERILUS (Boston College) and fifth-round fullback JEROME FELTON (Furman). Smith leads the club in rushing yards (256) and touchdowns (3) running behind Cherilus and Felton, who each have been starters on the Lions’ offense.. . . . . . On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker JORDAN DIZON (second round, Colorado) has seen action in five contests and has made five tackles and eight special teams tackles.
GREEN BAY: Second-round wide receiver JORDY NELSON (Kansas State) has played in seven games. Nelson’s 16 receptions are second among NFC rookie wide receivers, including seven on third-down, tying for first among NFC rookies. Nelson registered his first career touchdown reception (29 yards) in Week 2. . . . . . On defense, cornerback PAT LEE (second round, Auburn) and defensive end JEREMY THOMPSON (fourth round, Wake Forest) have seen action in four and three games, respectively. Thompson made his first career start last week.
MINNESOTA: Safety TYRELL JOHNSON has made an immediate impact for the Vikings. The second-round selection out of Arkansas State has started all seven games and has 30 tackles, an interception, four passes defensed and a fumble recovery.
NEW ORLEANS: The Saints’ defense has been bolstered by the play of their first two draft picks, defensive tackle SEDRICK ELLIS (first round, Southern California) and cornerback TRACY PORTER (second round, Indiana). Ellis, has started four games and registered 11 tackles and one sack. Porter, has started five games, and recorded five tackles, one interception, five passes defensed and a sack......Kicker TAYLOR MEHLHAFF (sixth round, Wisconsin) has converted two of three field goals, including a career-long 44-yarder in Week 6.
NEW YORK: For the second consecutive season, the Giants have received immediate help from a first-round defensive back selection, CB AARON ROSS. University of Miami product KENNY PHILLIPS (No. 31 overall) has seen action in all six games and has 21 tackles. . . . . . BRYAN KEHL (fourth round, Brigham Young) has played in all six games and made one start. Has registered 18 tackles.
PHILADELPHIA: Wide receiver DE SEAN JACKSON (second round, California) has electrified the Eagles’ offense and special teams. Jackson leads all NFL rookies with 433 receiving yards and is first among NFC rookies with 29 receptions. At his current pace (77), Jackson is within striking distance of the club rookie-record for receptions (81, TE KEITH JACKSON). The Long Beach, California native’s 13.3 punt-return average ranks second in the NFC. Jackson returned a punt 68 yards for a touchdown in Week 5. . . . . . On defense, second-round selection TREVOR LAWS has seen action in six games and recorded four tackles.
ST. LOUIS: CHRIS LONG (Virginia), the second overall selection of the draft, has started all six games at defensive end. Long’s two sacks tie for first among NFC rookies. His 30 tackles lead all Rams defensive linemen......Wide receiver DONNIE AVERY (second round, Houston) ranks third on the club in receptions (15) and yards (184). Avery had his first career touchdown reception in Week 7 (42 yards) and a 37-yard TD run in Week 4.
SAN FRANCISCO: Wide receiver JOSH MORGAN (sixth round, Virginia Tech) has 11 receptions for 160 yards, including a 30-yard touchdown last week. First-round pick defensive tackle KENTWAN BALMER (North Carolina) has played in seven games and recorded 11 tackles
SEATTLE: Second-round tight end JOHN CARLSON (Notre Dame) has started five games this season. The Litchfield, Minnesota native leads the Seahawks in receptions (19) and yards (201), and ranks third among NFC rookies in both categories . . . . . . Defensive end LAWRENCE JACKSON has played in all six games, making five starts. The first-round choice (No. 28) out of Southern California is tied for first among NFC rookies with 2.0 sacks.
TAMPA BAY: First-round choice AQIB TALIB has played in six games for the Buccaneers, helping the club to a 5-2 start. The shutdown corner out of Kansas, who was selected 20th overall, ties for first among NFL rookies with three interceptions. Talib has nine total tackles and four passes defensed.
WASHINGTON: Seventh-round choice CHRIS HORTON – the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September -- has stepped into the starting role for the Redskins, helping the club to a 5-2 start. The ball-hawking hard-hitting safety out of UCLA is tied for the NFL rookie lead with three interceptions. Horton’s 38 tackles rank third on the Redskins. He also has a forced fumble and recovery. . . . . . Second-round pick WR DEVIN THOMAS (Michigan State) has four receptions for 40 yards. He has made one start.
NFL 2008 WEEK 8 SCHEDULE – OCTOBER 26-27
(All times local)
Byes: Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos, Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings
Oakland at Baltimore, 1:00 PM
Atlanta at Philadelphia, 1:00 PM
Arizona at Carolina, 1:00 PM
Cincinnati at Houston, 3:05 PM
Tampa Bay at Dallas, 12:00 PM
Cleveland at Jacksonville, 4:05 PM
Washington at Detroit, 1:00 PM
N.Y. Giants at Pittsburgh, 4:15 PM
Buffalo at Miami, 1:00 PM
Seattle at San Francisco, 1:15 PM
St. Louis at New England, 1:00 PM
San Diego at New Orleans (London), 5:00 PM
Kansas City at N.Y. Jets, 1:00 PM
Indianapolis at Tennessee, 7:30 PM (ESPN - MNF)
NFL 2008 WEEK 7 RESULTS (OCTOBER 19-20)
(Home team in CAPS)
Byes: Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles
BUFFALO 23, San Diego 14
HOUSTON 28, Detroit 21
CAROLINA 30, New Orleans 7
GREEN BAY 34, Indianapolis 14
CHICAGO 48, Minnesota 41
OAKLAND 16, N.Y. Jets 13 (OT)
Pittsburgh 38, CINCINNATI 10
WASHINGTON 14, Cleveland 11
Tennessee 34, KANSAS CITY 10
TAMPA BAY 20, Seattle 10
Baltimore 27, MIAMI 13
N.Y. GIANTS 29, San Francisco 17
ST. LOUIS 34, Dallas 14
NEW ENGLAND 41, Denver 7 (MNF)
NFL 2008 WEEK 6 RESULTS (OCTOBER 12 - 13)
(Home team in CAPS)
Byes: Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans
ATLANTA 22, Chicago 20
Jacksonville 24, DENVER 17
HOUSTON 29, Miami 28
ARIZONA 30, Dallas 24 (OT)
INDIANAPOLIS 31, Baltimore 3
Philadelphia 40, SAN FRANCISCO 26
MINNESOTA 12, Detroit 10
Green Bay 27, SEATTLE 17
NEW ORLEANS 34, Oakland 3
SAN DIEGO 30, New England 10
N.Y. JETS 26, Cincinnati 14
TAMPA BAY 27, Carolina 3
St. Louis 19, WASHINGTON 17
CLEVELAND 35, N.Y. Giants 14
NFL 2008 WEEK 5 RESULTS (OCTOBER 5 - 6)
(Home team in CAPS)
Byes: Cleveland Browns, N.Y. Jets, Oakland Raiders, St. Louis Rams
Tennessee 13, BALTIMORE 10
DENVER 16, Tampa Bay 13
CAROLINA 34, Kansas City 0
ARIZONA 41, Buffalo 17
Chicago 34, DETROIT 7
DALLAS 31, Cincinnati 22
Atlanta 27, GREEN BAY 24
New England 30, SAN FRANCISCO 21
Indianapolis 31, HOUSTON 27
Pittsburgh 26, JACKSONVILLE 21
MIAMI 17, San Diego 10
N.Y. GIANTS 44, Seattle 6
Washington 23, PHILADELPHIA 17
Minnesota 30, NEW ORLEANS 27 (MNF)
Weekend 8: NFL 2008 Week 8 Matchups & Game Capsules
NFL 2008 WEEK 8 (OCTOBER 26 - 27, 2008) GAME CAPSULES, ANALYSIS & PREVIEW
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-4) AT NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-4) – WEMBLEY STADIUM, LONDON, ENGLAND
The San Diego Chargers lead the series 7 - 2 and have won 4 of the past 5 match-ups against the New Orleans Saints.
The Chargers and Saints last played each other on November 7, 2004 in San Diego with the Chargers beating up on the Saints
by a score of 43 to 17. In that game, then San Diego Chargers QB Drew Brees threw for 257 yards & 4 TDs,
including 3 to TE Antonio Gates. The Chargers outgained the New Orleans Saints by 182 total net yards.
Last week both teams lost on the road. The Chargers lost to the Buffalo Bills 23 to 14, while the New Orleans
Saints lost to the Carolina Panthers 30 - 7.
This is the second overseas regular-season NFL game.
SAN DIEGO CHARGERS (3-4)
QB PHILIP RIVERS has 6-3 (.667) record as starter against NFC & has completed 172 of 273 passes (63.0
pct.) for 2,004 yards with 14 TDs vs. 4 INTs & 96.2 passer rating. In past 2 games, Rivers has completed 40 of
56 passes (71.4 pct.) for 514 yards with 5 TDs vs. 1 INT & 122.2 passer rating RB LA DAINIAN
TOMLINSON averages 106.5 rush yards per game in past 2 against NFC (213 total) & aims for 10th 100-yard rush
game against NFC TE ANTONIO GATES tied career-high with 3 TD receptions in last meeting against
Saints. Gates leads NFL TEs with 4 TDs WR VINCENT JACKSON is averaging 18.4 yards per reception in
2008 (26 receptions, 478 yards) & aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD. WR MALCOM FLOYD aims for 3rd game in
row with TD reception Since 2007, CB ANTONIO CROMARTIE leads NFL with 12 INTs. Club is 7-0 when
Cromartie has INT In 2008, RB-KR DARREN SPROLES ranks 2nd in AFC with 616 KR return yards K NATE KAEDING ranks 2nd in AFC with 56 points
NEW ORLEANS SAINTS (3-4)
The New Orleans Saints lead the NFL in total net (402.3 avg.) & passing yards (310.9 avg.) per game.
Saints rank 2nd in NFL on 3rd downs (43 of 89 for 48.3 avg.) QB DREW BREES plays 1st game vs.
his former club. Drew Brees played for the San Diego Chargers from 2001 to 2005. Brees 104.8 passer rating for
2004 season ranks 1st in club history with min. 300 attempts In 2 games vs. AFC this season, Brees has completed 65
of 78 (83.3 pct.) for 741 yards with 4 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 123.3 passer rating. Teams are 27-6 (.818) when Brees
has 100+ rating. Since joining Saints in 2006, Brees has passed for 11,065 yards, most in NFL. Aims for 5th
consecutive home game with 300+ yards & has 1,356 (339.0 per game) in past 4 Saints are 11-3 (.786)
when RB DEUCE MCALLISTER has 2+ rush TDs. Had 2-yard TD run in last game vs. SD TE JEREMY SHOCKEY
registered 6 receptions for 101 yards (16.8 avg.) in only career game vs. SD (9/25/05 with the NYG). WR DEVERY
HENDERSON averages 31 yards per catch this year (15 rec. for 465 yards) DE WILL SMITH has 7 sacks
in past 15.
OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-4) AT BALTIMORE RAVENS (3-3)
The Baltimore Ravens lead the series 3 games to 1. The Ravens and Raiders last met on 9/17/2006 in Baltimore as
the Ravens won 28 - 6. In that game, the Baltimore Ravens defense registered 6 sacks & forced 6 turnovers,
limiting the Oakland Raiders to 162 total net yards. Ravens K Matt Stover converted all 4 field goal attempts.
Last week both teams won coincidentally against AFC East opponents. The Oakland Raiders won at home in overtime,
defeating the New York Jets 16 - 13. The Blatimore Ravens defeated the Miami Dolphins on the road by a score of 27 - 13.
OAKLAND RAIDERS (2-4)
In 7 career starts, QB JA MARCUS RUSSELL has completed 107 of 195 passes (54.9 pct.) for 1,254 yards with
6 TDs vs. 3 INT & 78.5 passer rating RB JUSTIN FARGAS totaled 74 yards (2.6 avg.) on 28 attempts last week
& Raiders are 2-1 (.667) when Fargas has 25 or more attempts Rookie RB DARREN MC FADDEN (1st round, No. 4) averages
5.1 rush yards per carry (67 attempts, 341 yards) WR JAVON WALKER posted 1st TD as Raider last week
In 2008, WR-KR JOHNNIE LEE HIGGINS averages 25.7 yards per catch (6 receptions, 154 yards). In
2008, TE ZACH MILLER averages 14.2 yards per catch (18 receptions, 256 yards) Defense totaled 16
sacks in past 5 Since 2007, LB THOMAS HOWARD (6) ranks 1st & LB KIRK MORRISON (5) ties for 2nd in
NFL for most INTs among LBs Rookie DE TREVOR SCOTT (6th round, No. 169) had career-high 2 sacks last
week Since 2005, CB DE ANGELO HALL is 3rd in NFL with 18 INTs
BALTIMORE RAVENS (3-3)
The Baltimore Ravens need 1 more regular season win to reach 100 franchise wins Dating back to 12/30/07, club has won 3 of past 4 at home Rookie QB JOE FLACCO (1st round, No. 18) posted career high 73.9 completion pct. (17 of 23) & career best 120.2 passer rating last week RB WILLIS MC GAHEE posted 1st 100-yard rush game of season last week & 20th of his career WR DERRICK MASON averages 91.3 receiving yards per game in past 4 vs. Oak. (365 yards). Since ’03, Mason ranks 3rd in NFL with 481 receptions (TORRY HOLT, 522; CHAD JOHNSON, 489) TE TODD HEAP has 11 rec. for 110 yards (10.0 avg.) with 2 TDs in 2 career games vs. Oak Ravens have not allowed RB to gain 100+ rush yards in 25 games (longest current streak in NFL) LB TERRELL SUGGS posted 1st career INT-TD on 44-yard return last week. Suggs had 2 sacks in last meeting vs. Oak DT TREVOR PRYCE has 7 career sacks vs. Raiders Since ’02, S ED REED leads NFL with 35 INTs CB FABIAN WASHINGTON spent 3 seasons (2005-07) with Raiders.
ARIZONA CARDINALS (4-2) AT CAROLINA PANTHERS (5-2)
The Carolina Panthers have won the past 4 games versus the Arizona Cardinals and lead the series 5-2. The
Panthers and Cardinals last played each other in Arizona on 10/14/2007. The Panthers won 25 to 10. In that game,
The Carolina Panthers scored 16 unanswered points in the final 5:40 of the 4th quarter. Carolina Panthers QB
Vinny Testaverde threw a TD pass for an NFL record 21st consecutive season.
Last week was the Arizona Cardinals bye week. The Cardinals had defeated the Dallas Cowboys in overtime of
NFL 2008 week 6 by the score of 30 to 24. The Carolina Panthers defeated the New Orleans Saints 30 to 7 at home
last week (NFL 2008 Week 7).
ARIZONA CARDINALS (4-2)
In 3 home games this season, Arizona Cardinals QB KURT WARNER has completed 74 of 96 (77.1 pct.) for 847 yards with 7 TDs vs. 1 INT for 123.0 passer rating. In Warner’s starts with 15+ attempts (including playoffs), his teams are 33-3 (.917) when he has 100+ rating. In last game at Carolina (12/23/01 with the Saint Louis Rams), Warner completed 18 of 23 (78.3 pct.) for 217 yards with 2 TDs vs. 2 INTs for 98.7 passer rating in win In only meeting, RB EDGERRIN JAMES had 23-yard TD. James leads all active rushers with 11,970 yards In 3 career games vs. the Carolina Panthers, WR LARRY FITZGERALD has 22 receptions for 325 yards (108.3
per game) & 2 TDs. Fitzgerald’s 5 rec. TDs ties for NFL lead WR STEVE BREASTON has 24 catches for
301 yards (100.3 per game) in past 3 games, including 1st career receiving TD in last week. Had 12 catches for
164 yards in 19 previous career games In last game at the Carolina Panthers, S ADRIAN WILSON
returned INT 27 yards In last game, WR SEAN MOREY registered career-high 4 special teams tackles
& blocked punt in OT that resulted in the game-winning TD
CAROLINA PANTHERS (5-2)
Carolina Panthers QB JAKE DELHOMME is 3-0 vs. Cardinals, completing 50 of 86 (58.1 pct.) for 636 yards
with 5 TDs vs. 3 INTs for 86.2 passer rating. With Panthers, Delhomme is 7-1 vs. NFC West, and completed 135
of 238 (56.7 pct.) with 15 TDs vs. 6 INTs for 91.1 passer rating. As starter, when Delhomme has 110.0+ rating,
his teams are perfect 15-0, including last week vs. the New Orleans Saints (122.3 rating) RB DE ANGELO
WILLIAMS tied 2nd-highest career rushing total (121 yards) in only career meeting vs. the Arizona Cardinals,
including career-long 75-yard run. Panthers are perfect 7-0 when Williams rushes for 80+ yards Rookie RB JONATHAN STEWART (1st round) has 5 rush TDs in past 6 In past 2 vs. the Arizona
Cardinals, WR STEVE SMITH has registered 18 rec. for 255 yards (127.5 per game) & 3 TDs, including a 65-yarder
in each contest. Aims for 3rd in row with 100+ yards DE JULIUS PEPPERS ranks 1st in team history
with 60 sacks & 22 FFs. Has 4.5 sacks in past 4 meetings, including 1.5 in last game CB KEN LUCAS had only career INT-TD at the Arizona Cardinals (10/24/04 with the the Seattle Seahawks).
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (5-2) AT DALLAS COWBOYS (4-3)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have defeated the Dallas Cowboys in 3 of the their past 4 games. However, the Cowboys
lead the series 7 to 3. The Bucs and Cowboys last met in Dallas on Thanksgiving Day 2006 (11/23/2006) in Dallas.
The Dallas Cowboys won 38 to 10. In that game, Dallas QB Tony Romo threw for 306 yards & 5 TDs. Dallas Cowboys RB
Marion Barber had 86 scrimmage yards & scored 3 TDs.
Last week, the Buccaneers defeated the Seattle Seahawks at home by the score of 20 to 10. The Dallas Cowboys
lost to the Saint Louis Rams on the road 34 to 14.
TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (5-2)
Under head coach JON GRUDEN, Bucs are 18-0 since 2002 when not committing turnover QB JEFF GARCIA completed 15 of 23 (65.2 pct.) for 238 yards with 1 TD vs. 1 INT for 95.9 passer rating in last game vs. the Dallas Cowboys (12/25/06 with the Philadelphia Eagles). Had 1st career 4 TD pass game vs. Cowboys (9/24/00 with the 49ers) which ties for career-high RB EARNEST GRAHAM aims for 3rd consecutive game with rush TD. Bucs are 6-0 when Graham has 20+ att WR JOEY GALLOWAY spent 4 years with Cowboys (2000-03). WR ANTONIO BRYANT was 2nd round pick by the Dallas
Cowboys. in 2002 & played 37 games before being traded to Cle. in 2004. Last week, had 6 catches for 115 yards
(19.2 avg.), including 47-yard TD Defense ranks 1st in NFL in red zone defense (30.8 TD pct.) & 2nd in NFL with 12 INTs. The Tampa Bay
Buccaneers are 4-0 when LB BARRETT RUUD has INT 1st round selection (No. 20) CB AQIB TALIB registered
3rd INT last week vs. the Seattle Seahawks, & is tied for 1st among NFL rookies. Aims for 3rd consecutive game with INT. This
week, CB RONDE BARBER will make his 160th career start. Has made 142 consecutive starts, most among active
CBs
DALLAS COWBOYS (4-3)
Dallas Cowboys QB BRAD JOHNSON will make his 1st career start vs. former club since leaving after 2004
season. Johnson’s holds The Tampa Bay Buccaneers single-season (2003) records in yards (3, 811) & TD passes
(26) When RB MARION BARBER has 11+ carries, Cowboys are 23-3 (.885). Has 35 TDs (29 rush, 6 rec.)
in past 38 Aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD In 2 career starts vs. The Tampa Bay
Buccaneers, WR TERRELL OWENS has 14 catches for 259 yards (129.5 per game) & 2 TD, including 75-yarder
(10/19/03) TE JASON WITTEN has 358 catches & 4,177 yards since 2004, most by TE in NFC.
Leads NFL with 20 receptions on 3rd down (222 yards, 11.1 avg.) 2nd round selection TE
MARTELLUS BENNETT registered 1st career TD and career-high (67) yards last week With 3.0
sacks last week, LB DE MARCUS WARE tied NFL record with 10th game in row with 1.0+ sack. Has 13.0
sacks in past 10. Leads NFL with 9.0 sacks. LB GREG ELLIS has 15.5 sacks in past 20. Aims for 3rd
consecutive game with sack vs. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS (5-2) AT DETROIT LIONS (0-6)
The Washington Redskins hold a commanding 26 to 10 lead in their series versus the Detroit Lions. The Redskins have
won 18 of the past 20 meetings. The Lions and Redskins last met on 10/7/2007 in Washington as the Redskins defeated the
Lions 34 to 3. In that game, Washington Redskins QB Jason Campbell completed 79.3 pct. of his passes for 248
yards & 2 TDs. Redskins DE Andre Carter added 2 sacks plus a safety in the victory.
Last week, the Redskins defeated the Cleveland Browns at home 14 - 11, while the Detroit Lions continued their losing
ways falling to the Houston Texans 28 to 21 in Houston.
WASHINGTON REDSKINS (5-2)
Washington Redskins QB JASON CAMPBELL has not thrown an INT this season (202 attempts). In only career start vs. the Detroit Lions (10/7/07), completed 23 of 29 (79.3 pct.) for 248 yards with 2 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 125.3 passer rating. Aims for 3rd consecutive road win, after completing 36 of 60 (60.0 pct.) for 407 yards with 2 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 91.5 passer rating in previous 2 games Over past 4 games, RB CLINTON PORTIS has registered 570 rushing yards (142.5 per game) & 4 TDs. Aims for 5th consecutive 120+ yard game. In 1/07/04 game, recorded 1st career TD pass (15 yards) & had 147 yards rushing. When Portis has 100+ yards, his teams are 31-10 (.756). When Portis rushes for 2+ TDs, his clubs are 14-5 (.737) TE CHRIS COOLEY has 28 TDs since 2004, most in NFC among TEs WR SANTANA MOSS had TD rec. in only career game vs. Lions WR-PR ANTWAAN RANDLE EL had 7 receptions for 100 yards (14.3 avg.) in last meeting. Had 81-yard
PR-TD vs. the Detroit Lions (1/1/06 with the Pittsburgh Steelers). Including playoffs, has 26 career TDs
(14 rec., 6 PR, 5 pass, 1 KR) LB-DE JASON TAYLOR has 118.0 sacks, most among active players.
DE ANDRE CARTER had 2 sacks & safety in last meeting. CB SHAWN SPRINGS had INT on 11/16/03
DETROIT LIONS (0-6)
In his first 2 career starts, Detroit Lions QB DAN ORLOVSKY has completed 24 of 46 (52.2 pct.) for 415 yards with 2 TDs vs. 0 INTs for 97.6 passer rating. Aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD pass RB KEVIN SMITH (3rd round) leads team in rushing with 256 yards & 3 rush TDs. Is 1 of 5 rookies to lead club in rushing. Had 26-yard TD last week. In only career game vs. Was. (11/14/04), RB RUDI JOHNSON registered 102 rushing yards & 1 TD. When Johnson has 25+ attempts, his teams are 18-1 (.947) Last week, WR CALVIN JOHNSON had 2 rec. for career-high 154 yards receiving (77.0 avg.), including 4th-longest reception in club’s 75-year history (96 yards) Defense had 8 sacks in past 2 games. DE JARED DE VRIES aims for 3rd sack in 4 games. DE DEWAYNE WHITE has sack in 4 of 6 games this year K JASON HANSON has 393 FGs, 6th most in NFL history & 4th among active players.
BUFFALO BILLS (5-1) AT MIAMI DOLPHINS (2-4)
The Buffalo Bills have won 7 of the past 8 matchups between these two AFC division rivals. The Dolphins still
hold a commanding 49-34-1 edge in the series. Last season, the Buffalo won both games in the home-and-home series.
On 11/11/2007 the Bills defeated the Dolphins 13 to 10 in Miami. The Buffalo Bills overcame a 10 to 3 4th-quarter
deficit with a TD run by rookie RB Marshawn Lynch & a game-winning 34-yard FG by Rian Lindell with 46 seconds left.
On 12/9/2007, the Bills defeated the Dolphins 38-17 at home. The Buffalo Bills scored 31 points in 1st 21
minutes to stay in Wild Card race. Bills RBs Fred Jackson (115) & Marshawn Lynch (107) both rushed for 100 yards.
Last week, the Buffalo Bills defeated the Chargers at home 23-14, while the Dolphis lost their home game to the
Baltimore Ravens 27-13.
BUFFALO BILLS (5-1)
The Buffalo Bills aim for their 4th consecutive win against the Miami Dolphins in October QB TRENT EDWARDS has 10-5 (.667) record as starter with 12 TDs & 9 INTs & 82.5 passer rating. In 4th
quarter this season, Edwards has completed 29 of 38 passes (76.3 pct.) for 375 yards with 3 TDs vs. 0 INTs &
133.1 passer rating. In last meeting against Miami, Edwards posted career-high 4 TDs. Team is 8-1 (.889)
when Edwards has 80+ passer rating RB MARSHAWN LYNCH averages 84 rush yards per game against
Dolphins & aims for 2nd consecutive 100-yard rush game vs. the Miami Dolphins RB FRED JACKSON gained
career-high 115 yards (7.7 avg.) on 15 attempts in last meeting against the Miami Dolphins WR LEE
EVANS averages 21.7 yards per catch in 2008 (24 receptions, 521 yards). Evans has 8 TD receptions vs. the
Miami Dolphins (most vs. any opponent) Club is 12-2 (.857) under head coach DICK JAURON when holding
opponents to 300 yards or fewer Since ’03, DE AARON SCHOBEL ranks 2nd in NFL with 53 sacks (JASON
TAYLOR, 60) LB KAWIKA MITCHELL posted 1st INT with Bills last week
MIAMI DOLPHINS (2-4)
The Miami Dolphins Offense aims for 350+ total yards in 5 games in row In past 4, QB CHAD
PENNINGTON has completed 82 of 109 passes (75.2 pct.) for 1,033 yards with 4 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 108.8 passer
rating. Including playoffs Pennington’s teams are 19-7 (.730) when has 100+ passer rating. RB RONNIE BROWN
is averaging 78.8 rush yards per game in past 4 & has 8 TDs (7 rush, 1 passing) in past 5. Brown is averaging
93.5 rush yards per game in past 6 against AFC East. In 6 career meetings against Bills, RB RICKY
WILLIAMS averages 121.3 rush yards per game (728 total). In past 2, RB PATRICK COBBS has totaled 202 receiving
yards (25.3 avg.) on 8 receptions with 2 TDs Undrafted rookie free agent WR DAVONE BESS posted 1st career TD reception last week In 2008, TE ANTHONY FASANO averages 13.8 yards per catch (17 receptions, 234 yards) Defense has 11 sacks in past 4 games LB JOEY PORTER is tied for 2nd in NFL with 8.5 sacks & has 7.5 sacks in past 4 games S YEREMIAH BELL leads team with 50 tackles.
ST. LOUIS RAMS (2-4) AT NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (4-2)
The Rams lead the series 5-4 and have won 4 of the 5 past games against the Patriots. The two teams last faced
each other on November 7, 2004 in Saint Louis. The Patriots defeated the Rams 40 to 22. New England kicker
Adam Vinatieri converted all 4 FG attempts (43, 31, 45, 36) & also threw a 4-yard TD pass to WR Troy Brown on
a fake field goal.
Last week both teams won at home. The Saint Louis Rams defeated the Dallas Cowboys 34-14. Meanwhile,
the New England Patriots defeated the Denver Broncos 41-7.
ST. LOUIS RAMS (2-4)
In 18 career starts vs. AFC teams, Rams QB MARC BULGER has completed 389 of 607 (64.1 pct.) for 4,859
yards with 30 TDs vs. 16 INTs for 94.3 passer rating. Has 6 300-yard games vs. AFC, including 2 games with 450+ yards.
In only game vs. the New Enlgand Patriots (11/7/04), Bulger completed 23 of 33 (69.7 pct.) for 285 yards with
2 TDs vs. 1 INT for 103.7 passer rating For career club is 10-4 (.714) when RB STEVEN JACKSON has
100+ rush yards. When Jackson has 22+ attempts, Rams are 16-6 (.727), & in past 22, Jackson has rushed for
2,492 yards (113.3 per game) & 17 TDs. Last week, Jackson tied career-high with 3 rush TDs & his 160 yards
rushing were 2nd-highest single-game total of career Since 2000, WR TORRY HOLT leads NFL with 776
receptions & 11,337 yards. Had 6 catches for 111 yards in last meeting S O.J. ATOGWE has 10 INTs
in past 14 games. Last week, tied career-best with 2 INTs DE LEONARD LITTLE has 4.5 sacks in past 3
games. Aims for 3rd consecutive game with FF DT LA’ROI GLOVER recorded 1st career INT vs. the New
Enlgand Patriots (10/4/98 w/the New Orleans Saints).
NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS (4-2)
Including Super Bowl XXXVI, the New England Patriots aim for their 3rd consecutive win against the Rams Since ’03, Patriots are 11-1 (.916) in October at home Club aims for 13th win in row against NFC In 3 games at home in 2008, QB MATT CASSEL has completed 50 of 73 passes (68.5 pct.) for 468 yards with 5 TDs vs. 1 INT & 103 passer rating RB KEVIN FAULK averages 6.6 yards per carry in 2008 (23 attempts, 152 yards). RB SAMMY MORRIS gained career-high 138 yards (8.6 avg.) on 16 carries with 1 TD last week In 3 career games against Rams, WR RANDY MOSS averages 104 receiving yards per game & aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD reception vs. Saint Louis Rams Including postseason, WR WES WELKER aims for 11th consecutive game with 6 or more receptions & ranks 2nd in NFL with 154 rec. since 2007 (T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH, 158 rec.) S BRANDON MERIWEATHER has 2 INTs in past 3 DE RICHARD SEYMOUR posted 1.5 sacks last week & the New Enlgand Patriots has 26-3 (.897) record when has 1 or more sacks CB-KR ELLIS HOBBS leads NFL with 30.1 KR avg.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (1-5) AT NEW YORK JETS (3-3)
The Chiefs hold a 16-15-1 edge in their head-to-head series over the New York Jets. The two teams last played
on December 30, 2007 in New York when the Jets defeated the Chiefs in overtime 13 - 10. New York K Mike Nugent kicked a
43-yard FG in the freezing rain after RB Thomas Jones moved the Jets into position with runs of 9, 8, 10 & 8 yards in OT.
Last week both the Jets and Chiefs lost their respective games. The Chiefs lost at home to the still
undefeated Titans at 34-10, while the Jets lost an overtime game to the Raiders in Oakland 16-13.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS (1-5)
HERM EDWARDS spent 5 seasons (2001-05) as Jets head coach In 21 starts with Chiefs, QB DAMON HUARD has completed 349 of 570 passes (61.2 pct.) for 3,899 yards with 20 TDs vs. 17 INTs & 80.9 passer rating.
QB TYLER THIGPEN recorded 1st career rush TD last week In 1 career meeting vs. Jets. (9/11/05), RB
LARRY JOHNSON gained 110 yards (12.2 avg.) on 9 attempts with 2 TDs. Chiefs are 22-7 (.759) when Johnson has
100+ rushing yards. KC is 12-1 (.923) when Johnson has 30+ att TE TONY GONZALEZ extended reception
streak to 121 in last game – streak is 2nd in NFL history among TEs (OZZIE NEWSOME, 150). Gonzalez totaled
season-high 97 receiving yards (16.2 avg.) last week on 6 receptions WR DWAYNE BOWE aims for 4th
consecutive with 5+ receptions Chiefs are 5-1 (.833) under Edwards when opponents score 10 or fewer
points LB DONNIE EDWARDS leads NFL active LBs with 28 career INTs
NEW YORK JETS (3-3)
Dating back to 12/30/07, the Jets have won 3 of their past 4 home games In 3 games at home in
2008, QB BRETT FAVRE has completed 67 of 93 passes (72.0 pct.) for 659 yards with 8 TDs vs. 4 INTs & 102.4
passer rating. Favre’s teams are 85-8 (.914) when he posts 100+ passer rating With 159 rush yards
last week, RB THOMAS JONES aims to become 1st Jet since CURTIS MARTIN (10/3/04) to record back-to-back 100-yard rushing games. Jones averages 130 rush yards per game when has 20 or more attempts in 2008 & Jones teams are 26-14 (.650) when he records 20+ att WR LAVERANUES COLES aims for 3rd consecutive home game with 8+ receptions. Coles averages 91 receiving yards per game in past 2 vs. KC (182 total) WR JERRICHO COTCHERY totaled 8 receptions for 76 yards (9.5 avg.) in last meeting against KC TE CHRIS BAKER had career-high 124 receiving yards (17.7 avg.) on 7 receptions with 1 TD vs. KC (9/11/05) Defense aims for 3rd consecutive home game with 5 sacks LB CALVIN PACE has sack in 2 of past 3 DE SHAUN ELLIS has sack in 5 of past 6 games & aims for 4th in row with sack.
ATLANTA FALCONS (4-2) AT PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (3-3)
The Philadelphia Eagles lead the series 12-10-1 and have won 3 of the past 4 games against the Atlanta Falcons.
The Eagles and Falcons last met in Philadelphia on New Year's Eve 2006.
Philadelphia Eagles QB A.J. Feeley threw for 321 yards & 3 TDs, including an 89-yarder to Hank Baskett for the
winning TD on the NFL season’s final day. The Eagles won 24 - 17.
Last week was each respective teams bye week. Both teams are coming off victories during NFL 2008 week 6.
ATLANTA FALCONS (4-2)
The Atlanta Falcons are looking for their 3rd consecutive victory In their last game, rookie QB MATT RYAN had first career 300-yard outing. Ryan completed 22 of 30 passes (73.3 pct.) for 301 yards
with 1 TD vs. 0 INTs for 116.1 passer rating. Aims for 4th game with 100+ rating this season RB MICHAEL TURNER ranks 3rd in NFC with 597 rushing yards & averages 99.5 yards per game. When Turner has 8+
carries, his teams are 15-2 (.882). RB-KR JERIOUS NORWOOD has 4 career rush TDs & 3 have been 67+ yards WR RODDY WHITE has 29 catches for 453 yards (113.3 per game) & 3 TDs in past 4. DE JOHN ABRAHAM
has 17 sacks in past 21. Second in NFC with 7 sacks. Has 74.5 sacks since 2000, tied for 5th-most in NFL. Had 3.5 sacks in 10/26/03 meeting (with the NYJ), 2nd-best single-game sack total of career DE JAMAAL ANDERSON had 1st career sack in last game K JASON ELAM has converted 16 of 17 FGs
(94.1 pct.) this season. In last game, kicked game-winning 48-yarder vs. Chi. as time expired. Ranks 5th in
NFL history with 411 FGs. Has 38 FGs of 50+ yards, 2nd in NFL history
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (3-3)
In 3 career home games vs. the Atlanta Falcons (including playoffs), QB DONOVAN MC NABB is 3-0 & has completed 67 of 100 (67.0 pct.) for 738 yards with 5 TDs vs. 1 INT for 101.2 passer rating. When McNabb has 100+ rating (including playoffs), Eagles are 37-1 (.974) WR DE SEAN JACKSON (2nd round, No. 49) leads NFL rookies with 433 rec. yards. His 29 receptions leads NFC rookie WRs & 13.3 punt return average ranks 2nd in NFC WR HANK BASKETT had 7 catches for career-high 177 yards (25.3 avg.) & 89-yard TD in last meeting TE L.J. SMITH had 97 yards in 11/2/03 game, 3rd-highest total of career Defense ties for NFC lead with 21 sacks. DE JUQUA PARKER has 4.5 sacks in past 4. Had 2 sacks in last meeting. DE TRENT COLE has 14 sacks in past 20 CB ASANTE SAMUEL has 18 INTs since 2006, most in NFL. S SEAN CONSIDINE recorded 1st career INT & sack in last meeting. S BRIAN DAWKINS has recorded INT in 3 of past 4 games (including playoffs) vs. Atl & recorded 1st career INT 9/22/96 game. One of 5 DBs in NFL history with 20 or more sacks. Eagles have won 16 of past 19 when Dawkins has INT.
CINCINNATI BENGALS (0-7) AT HOUSTON TEXANS (2-4)
The winless Cincinnati Bengal hold a 3 - 0 lead in their series versus the Houston Texans.
The two teams last played each other on 10/2/2005 in Cincinnati as the Bengals won 16 to 10. Cincinnati Bengals
QB Carson Palmer passed for 276 yards & 1 TD. Bengals K Shayne Graham kicked 3 FGs & RB Rudi Johnson added 88 rush yards.
Last week the Cincinnati Bengals lost at home to the Pittsburgh Steelers 38-10 while the Texans defeated the
Detroit Lions at home 28 to 21.
CINCINNATI BENGALS (0-7)
The Bengals aims for their 4th consecutive win against the Texans In 1 career meeting against Texans (w/Rams on 11/27/05), QB RYAN FITZPATRICK completed 19 of 30 passes
(63.3 pct.) for 310 yards with 3 TDs vs. 1 INT & 117.4 passer rating. In past 2, Fitzpatrick has completed 41
of 68 passes (60.3 pct.) for 316 yards with 1 TD vs. 0 INTs & 76.6 passer rating RB CEDRIC BENSON
made 1st start as Bengal last week. In 1 career start against Houston (w/Was. on 12/22/02), RB KENNY WATSON
gained 110 rush yards (5.5 avg.) on 20 att WR T.J. HOUSHMANDZADEH aims for 6th consecutive game
with 6 or more receptions. Houshmandzadeh posted 8 receptions for 105 yards (13.1 avg.) in last meeting
against Texans. WR CHAD JOHNSON aims for 100th consecutive game with reception Since ’03, team
is 22-6 (.786) when defense has 2+ INTs LB DHANI JONES leads team with 63 tackles DE
ANTWAN ODOM has 3.5 career sacks against Texans (most vs. any opponent) WR-KR GLENN HOLT ranks
1st in NFL with 744 KR yards (26.6 avg.)
HOUSTON TEXANS (2-4)
The Texans have won 6 of past 7 at home dating back to
11/18/07 The Houston Texans are averaging 27.8 points over their past 4 games In past 3, QB MATT SCHAUB has averaged 317.7 passing yards per game with 6 TDs vs. 2 INTs & 104.3 passer rating Rookie RB STEVE SLATON (3rd round, No. 89) ranks 3rd in NFL among rookie RBs with 423 rush yards (4.8 avg.) on 89 attempts & 4 TDs WR ANDRE JOHNSON is averaging 150 receiving yards in past 3 & aims for 4th consecutive 100-yard receiving game (131, 178, 141). Johnson is averaging 119.3 receiving yards in past 8 at home. WR KEVIN WALTER spent 3 seasons (2003-05) with Bengals TE OWEN DANIELS leads AFC TEs in receptions (29) & yards (374). Daniels tied career-high with 2 TD receptions last week (2 vs. the Tennessee Titans on 10/29/06) Since 2007, DE MARIO WILLIAMS ranks 3rd in NFL with 20 sacks (DE MARCUS WARE, 23; JARED ALLEN, 20.5). Williams has 4 sacks in past 3 games LB ZAC DILES recorded 1st career sack last week & leads team with 45 tackles.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (2-4) AT JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (3-3)
The Jacskonville Jaguars lead their series against the Browns with an 8-2 record and have won 2 of their past 3
matchups. The Jaguars and Browns last squared off in Cleveland on 12/4/2005. The Jaguars won 20 - 14 as
the Jacksonville Jaguars erased an 11-point deficit with a 29-yard FG by K Josh Scobee & 2 TD passes by QB David
Garrard in the 3rd quarter. It was the Jaguars 5th straight win at the time.
Last week the Browns lost to the Redskins 14-11 on the road while the Jaguars did not play as it was their bye
week.
CLEVELAND BROWNS (2-4)
The Cleveland Browns aim for their 3rd consecutive win at Jacksonville Club is 6-0 under head coach ROMEO CRENNEL when scoring 30+ points In past 2, QB DEREK ANDERSON has 3 TDs vs. 0 INTs
& 85.8 passer rating. Team is 5-0 when Anderson has 100+ passer rating. Anderson will make 1st career start against Jaguars Browns are 5-0 when RB JAMAL LEWIS has 25+ carries In 1 career
meeting against Jaguars, WR BRAYLON EDWARDS posted 5 receptions for 86 yards (17.2 avg.) with 2 TDs. WR DONTE’
STALLWORTH averages 18.3 yards per reception against Jax. (6 receptions, 110 yards). WR JOSHUA CRIBBS
registered 1st career TD reception last week CB ERIC WRIGHT has INT in 2 of past 3 -
In last meeting against Jax. (w/Patriots in WC on 1/7/06), LB WILLIE MC GINEST set NFL postseason
record with 4.5 sacks Rookie LB ALEX HALL (7th round, No. 231) has 3 sacks in past 4 games & leads
NFL rookies with 3 sacks
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS (3-3)
The Jaguars have a 7-6 record (.538) after bye weeks Since ’06, team is 15-4 (.789) when gaining 150+ rush yards In past 3, QB DAVID GARRARD has 3 TDs vs. 0 INTs & 98.7 passer rating. In 1 career start against Browns, Garrard is 1-0 & has completed 11 of 20 (55.0 pct.) passes for 116 yards with 2 TDs & 1 INT & 84.6 passer rating For career, RB FRED TAYLOR averages 111.3 rush yards per game when has 20+ carries (7,237 total in 65 games). Team is 15-5 (.750) when Taylor has 25+ attempts Taylor aims for 4th consecutive game with 100+ rush yards vs. Cle. (136, 181, 145). Against AFC, RB MAURICE JONES-DREW averages 5.4 yards per carry (326 attempts, 1,746 yards) Jones-Drew totaled 125 rush yards last game & aims for back-to-back 100-yard rush games for 1st time in career WR MATT JONES has 5+ receptions in 5 of past 6 TE MARCEDES LEWIS has 4 receptions for 88 yards (22.0 avg.) in past 2 & aims for 3rd consecutive game with TD Club has 6 sacks in 3 home games in 2008 CB RASHEAN MATHIS has 2 INT-TDs this season Rookie KR-CB BRIAN WITHERSPOON (undrafted free agent) ranks 3rd in NFL with 28.6 KR avg.
NEW YORK GIANTS (5-1) AT PITTSBURGH STEELERS (5-1)
The Giants lead this series between these 2 charter NFL members 43-28-3. The Steelers have won 2 of the past 3.
The Giants and Steelers last played each other in Giants Stadium on December 18, 2004. The Steelers won
33 - 30 as the Pittsburgh Steelers took the lead on a 1-yard TD by Jerome Bettis in a game with 7 lead changes.
Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger passed for 316 yards & 1 TD.
Last week both teams won as the Giants defeated the 49ers at home 29 -17, while the Steelers won on the road
defeating the Bengals 38 - 10.
NEW YORK GIANTS (5-1)
Giants QB ELI MANNING is 19-5 (.792) in past 24 starts (including playoffs). In only career start vs. Pittsburgh Steelers, completed 16 of 23 passes (69.6 pct.) for 182 yards with 2 TD vs. 1 INT for 103.9
rating When RB BRANDON JACOBS has 100+ yards, Giants are 6-1 (.857). When Jacobs has 10+ attempts (including playoffs), Giants are 19-4 (.826) RB DERRICK WARD rushed 10 times for 101 yards
(10.1 avg.) in last game vs. AFC North opponent, 2nd career 100-yard game WR PLAXICO BURRESS plays 1st game vs. former club (2000-04). Burress’ 12 100-yard receiving games ranks 4th in Pittsburgh
Steelers annals & his 253 yards vs. the Atlanta Falcons (11/10/02) is club-record In 12/10/00 game, WR AMANI TOOMER had 9 catches for 136 yards (15.1 avg.) & 1 TD Defense ties
for NFC lead with 21 sacks. DE JUSTIN TUCK has 7 sacks in past 7 (including Super Bowl XLII), including 2 last week vs. the San Francisco 49ers. When Tuck has 1+ sacks, Giants are 9-3 (.750). DT FRED ROBBINS has
5 sacks in past 5 games. Giants have won 12 of past 14 when DE MATHIAS KIWANUKA plays CB SAM MADISON
had 1st career 2 INT game vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (9/20/98 with the Miami Dolphins)
PITTSBURGH STEELERS (5-1)
STEELERS: Club aims for 10th consecutive win against NFC at home QB BEN ROETHLISBERGER is
13-3 (.812) against NFC & has completed 221 of 353 passes (62.6 pct.) for 3,107 yards with 22 TDs vs. 9 INTs
& 101.1 passer rating Including playoffs, team is 29-2 (.935), when Roethlisberger has 100+ passer
rating Since ’06, RB WILLIE PARKER averages 82.7 rush yards per game against NFC. Last week, RB
MEWELDE MOORE gained 120 yards (6.0 avg.) on 20 attempts (most since 122 yards on 11/21/05 with the Minnesota Vikings) & posted
3 TDs (2 rush, 1 receiving) For career, WR HINES WARD averages 99 receiving yards per game against
Giants (198 total) WR SANTONIO HOLMES averages 97.7 receiving yards per game in past 3 against
NFC (293 total) Defense ranks 1st in NFL allowing 228.3 yards per game in 2008 LB LA
MARR WOODLEY aims for 5th consecutive game with sack & has 6.5 sacks in past 4 games LB JAMES HARRISON has aims for 4th consecutive game with sack & has 5.5 sacks in past 3.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (1-5) AT SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (2-5)
The Seattle Seahawks have won 2 of the past 3 meetings and lead the series against the 49ers 10-9.
The 49ers won the first game between the two this NFL 2008 season (9/14/2008) in Seattle winning in overtime 33 to 30.
San Francisco K Joe Nedney connected on a 40-yard FG in OT after tying the game with a 28-yarder with 2:42 remaining.
Last week both teams lost on the road as the Seahawks lost 20-10 to the Buccaneers and the 49ers lost
29-17 to the Giants.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS (1-5)
The Seahawks have won 16 of past 21 vs. division, including 6 of past 7 QB MATT HASSELBECK is 8-3 (.727) in career as starter vs. the San Francisco 49ers, and has completed 237 of 377 (62.9 pct.) for 2,915 yards with 21 TDs
vs. 12 INTs for 92.0 passer rating. In starts with 10+ attempts (including playoffs), Hasselbeck is 31-6 (.838) when posting 95+ rating. Since ‘05, Hasselbeck is 14-4 (.778) as starter vs. NFC West with 93.0 rating RB JULIUS JONES has 414 rush yards (82.8 per game) & 2 TDs in past 5. In 2 career games vs. the San
Francisco 49ers, Jones has 212 yards (106.0 per game) & 3 TDs. RB T.J. DUCKETT had TD in last meeting DE PATRICK KERNEY has registered 1+ sack in 6 of past 7 divisional contests. Has 11 sacks in past 7
vs. NFC West opponents. Aims for 5th consecutive game with 1+ sack vs. the San Francisco 49ers. LB JULIAN
PETERSON aims for 4th meeting in row with sack. Has 5 sacks in past 3 vs. former team. Has 24.5 sacks in 42
games with the Seattle Seahawks (including playoffs). CB MARCUS TRUFANT had 2 INTs in 9/30/07 meeting
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS (2-5)
New 49ers head coach MIKE SINGELTARY debuts In 1st career start vs. the Seattle Seahawks
(9/14/08), QB J.T. O’SULLIVAN completed 20 of 32 (62.5 pct.) for a career-high 321 yards with 1 TD vs. 0 INTs for 106.4 passer rating In past 5 vs. the Seattle Seahawks, RB FRANK GORE has 715 scrimmage yards (143.0 per game), including 568 rush yards (113.6 per game). Gore set career-highs in rush yards (212) & scrimmage yards (238) in 11/19/06 contest vs. the Seattle Seahawks Since start of 2006, Gore has 4,499 scrimmage yards (3,332 rush, 1,167 rec.), 2nd-most in NFL WR ISAAC BRUCE is 3rd in NFL history with 14,459 rec. yards & tops active players. In 1st game (with the the San Francisco 49ers vs. Sea), registered 153 rec. yards, most vs. the Seattle Seahawks (including playoffs) in 15 career games WR BRYANT JOHNSON has TD reception in 5 of past 6 games vs. Sea Rookie WR JOSH MORGAN had career highs in rec. (5) & yards (86), including first career TD. Last week vs. NYG LB PARYS HARALSON leads club with 3.5 sacks CB NATE CLEMENTS tied career-high against the Seattle Seahawks with the 13 tackles (11/12/07).
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-3) AT TENNESSEE TITANS (6-0) - MONDAY NIGHT, OCTOBER 27
The Colts have a 15-11 lead in the series as the Titans have won 2 of the past 3 games. Last season each team
beat each other on the road.
In Tennesse on 9/16/2007 it was the Colts 22, Titans 20. Indianapolis QB Peyton Manning threw for 312 yards,
including a 22-yard TD to TE Dallas Clark. Colts K Adam Vinatieri made all 3 FG attempts.
In Indianapolis on 12/30/2007, the Titans defeated the Colts 16 to 10. Tennessee K Rob Bironas kicked 3 FGs,
including 2 in the 4th quarter, as the Titans earned the 6th & final AFC playoff spot.
Last week the Colts lost to the Packers in Green Bay 34 - 14, while the Titans remained undefeated by
beating up on the Kansas City Chiefs 34 to 10.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS (3-3)
The Colts aim for their 8th consecutive win on Monday Night Football (MNF) Colts are 29-9
(.763) against AFC South since 2002 Club has won 4 of past 5 at Ten In 12 career meetings
vs. the Tennessee Titans, QB PEYTON MANNING has completed 264 of 374 passes (70.6 pct.) for 3,079 yards with 20
TDs vs. 10 INTs & 101.9 passer rating. Manning is 9-2 (.818) on MNF with 23 TDs vs. 10 INTs & 100.7 passer
rating. Since’ 04, Colts are 38-6 (.863) when Manning has 2 or more TDs. RB DOMINIC RHODES has 3 TDs in
past 2 & aims for 3rd in row with TD In 2008, WR REGGIE WAYNE is averaging 82 receiving yards per
game & has TD reception in 2 of past 3. For career, WR MARVIN HARRISON averages 111 receiving yards per game
at the Tennessee Titans (666 total) Including postseason, Colts are 13-2 (.867) when DE DWIGHT
FREENEY records 2 or more sacks. Freeney has 10 career sacks in 11 games vs. the Tennessee Titans
TENNESSEE TITANS (6-0)
This is the Titans first MNF home game since 12/13/2004 vs. Chiefs The Titans aim for their 1st 7-0 start in franchise history Dating back to 12/16/07, Titans have 9 consecutive regular season wins (longest current streak in NFL) In last meeting vs. Colts, QB KERRY COLLINS completed 10 of 13 passes (76.9 pct.) for 106 yards with & 100.2 passer rating Rookie RB CHRIS JOHNSON (1st round, No. 24) gained career-high 168 rush yards last week & leads AFC with 549 rush yards RB LEN DALE WHITE posted career-high in rush yards (149) and TDs (3) last week. White leads NFL with 8 rush TDs WR JUSTIN GAGE totaled 7 rec. for 104 yards (14.9 avg.) in last meeting vs. Ind TE BO SCAIFE ranks 6th in NFL among TEs with 23 rec Since ’06, team is 15-2 (.882) when it records 2 or more INTs Defense ranks 1st in AFC with 10 INTs CB CORTLAND FINNEGAN (4) & S MICHAEL GRIFFIN (4) are tied for league lead with 4 INTs apiece (CHARLES WOODSON & NICK COLLINS, 4).
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RELATED: NFL 2008 Week 8
"We still have a chance to go 4-12," says Titans linebacker KEITH BULLUCK.
Another team – that other club in New York, the Super Bowl champion Giants who were quiet in their bye week while BRETT FAVRE was throwing six touchdown passes -- will look to up their record to 4-0 for the first time since 1990.
NFL 2008 Week 4: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
AFC & NFC Players of the Week - Jets QB Brett Favre AFC Player of the Week For 6 TD Passes Against Cardinals
Quarterback BRETT FAVRE of the New York Jets, linebacker DERRICK JOHNSON of the Kansas City Chiefs and kicker
JEFF REED of the Pittsburgh Steelers are the Week 4 AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for
games played the fourth week of the NFL 2008 season (September 28-29)
Quarterback JAKE DELHOMME of the Carolina Panthers and linebacker DERRICK BROOKS and kicker MATT BRYANT of the
Tampa Bay Buccaneers are the Week 4 NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the fourth week of the NFL 2008 season (September 28-29)
NFL 2008 Week 4:
The Pressure is Already On with Big Division Matchups & Old Rivalries
In the National Football League, whether it is Week 4, like this week, or
Week 14 of the NFL 2008 season, the pressure is always on.
Sure, you’d rather be undefeated – as six NFL teams are – or at least have a winning record as the last
weekend of September looms.
But all those teams on the downside of the won-loss ledger should remind themselves of the
2007 San Diego Chargers.
The Chargers began last season at 1-3, won their final six games then took an 11-5 record into the
playoffs, advancing all the way to the AFC Championship Game.
"It doesn’t matter whether you’re the favorite now or the least favorite," says quarterback TONY ROMO of the 3-0 Dallas Cowboys. "The reality of it is you’ve got to keep playing games. You’re not trying to be the favorite now, you’re trying to be the favorite at the end of the year."
NFL 2008 Week 3: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
RB Michael Turner of the Falcons Earns 2nd Player of Week Honor in Young Season
Running back MICHAEL TURNER of the Atlanta Falcons, safety BRIAN DAWKINS of the Philadelphia Eagles and kicker
JOHN CARNEY of the New York Giants are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for
games played the third week of the NFL 2008 season (September 21-22).
Running back RONNIE BROWN of the Miami Dolphins, cornerback ANTONIO CROMARTIE of the San Diego Chargers and kicker JOSH SCOBEE of the Jacksonville Jaguars are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played the third week of the NFL 2008 season (September 21-22).
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Kurt Warner QB, Arizona Cardinals
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NFL 2008 Week 3: Fall's Coming Up & the NFL is Heating Up!
NFL 2008 WEEK 3 TOPS OFF WITH ROMO VS. RODGERS, FAVRE VS. RIVERS
Great way to start. Great way to come back.
That easily summarizes developments in the NFL so far this NFL 2008 Season that have already packed a season's worth of
surprise and suspense into the league’s first two weeks. As autumn looms on Monday, who can imagine what's in store?
Look at things so far.
Three of the 2-0 teams (Buffalo, Carolina and Denver) won only seven games apiece last year. So things are looking up for them.
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But, hold on. Just look at last year. The Giants started 0-2
and won the Super Bowl. The Chargers began 1-3 and reached the AFC Championship Game. It’s two weeks down –
and a long way to go!
NFL 2008 Week 2: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
Saint Louis Rams QB Kurt Warner named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his perfect performance
In the NFC, Quarterback KURT WARNER of the Arizona Cardinals, safety CHRIS HORTON of the Washington Redskins
and kick returner-running back FELIX JONES of the Dallas Cowboys are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special
Teams Players of the Week for games played the second week of the NFL 2008 season.
Wide receiver BRANDON MARSHALL of the Denver Broncos, safety TROY POLAMALU of the Pittsburgh Steelers and
linebacker KEITH BULLUCK of the Tennessee Titans are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of
the Week for games played the second week of the 2008 NFL season (September 14-15).
NFL 2008 Week 2: Big Division Games Highlight Week 2
It's only Week 2 of the 2008 NFL season & already "big games" is a term that will be heard repeatedly.
On top of them being key division games, the matchups have intriguing storylines as well. It is only Week 2
of the 2008 NFL season and already "big games" are on tap.
"It's a rival game every time we play in our division," says linebacker BRADIE JAMES of the Dallas Cowboys,
who play NFC East foe Philadelphia on Monday night. "Everybody approaches it like it's a playoff game."
So after a Kickoff week that saw such thrills as a TD on a first pass (Atlanta rookie MATT RYAN on his first
NFL attempt) and one on a last pass (by Carolina quarterback JAKE DELHOMME to win a game with no time left),
here comes Week 2 of what promises to be another memorable NFL season.
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Willie Parker of the Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC Offensive Player of the Week
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NFL 2008 Week 1: AFC & NFC Players of the Week
Willie Parker, Cortland Finnegan, Roscoe Parrish, Michael Turner, Adewale Ogunleye & Will Blackmon
Running back Willie Parker of the Pittsburgh Steelers, cornerback Cortland Finnegan of the Tennessee Titans
and wide receiver - punt returner Roscoe Parrish of the Buffalo Bills are the AFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games played on NFL Kickoff 2008 Weekend.
In the NFC, Running back Michael Turner of the Atlanta Falcons, defensive end Adewale Ogunleye of the Chicago Bears and punt returner - kick returner Will Blackmon
of the Green Bay Packers are the NFC Offensive, Defensive and Special Teams Players of the Week for games
played on NFL 2008 Opening Weekend.
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Adrian Peterson, NFL Rookie of the Year & Pro Bowl MVP
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NFL 2008
Rookie of the Year & Pro Bowl MVP Adrian Peterson Ready to Pick Up Where He Left Off
2008 NFL Football Player Profile: Adrian Peterson Running Back Minnesota Vikings
During the NFL 2007 Regular season, Minnesota Vikings rookie sensation ADRIAN PETERSON ranked second in the NFL (and first in the NFC) with
1,341 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, carried the ball 238 times and led the league rushing for 95.8
yards per game.
Adrian Peterson also rushed for 296 yards rushing against the San Diego Chargers (November 4, 2007), setting
the single-game rushing record. Peterson also made 19 receptions for 268 yards including a 60 yard touchdown,
and amassed 2,021 combined net yards.
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NFL 2008: Chargers' Running Back La Dainian Tomlinson Closes in On Records
2008 NFL Football Player Profile: La Dainian Tomlinson Running Back San Diego Chargers
In 2008, San Diego Chargers running back La Dainian Tomlinson can pass Pro Football Hall of Famer ERIC
DICKERSON and become the only player in history to begin a career with eight consecutive 1,200-yard rushing
seasons. Tomlinson can also extend his streak of consecutive seasons to start a career with at least 10 rushing
touchdowns to eight. With nine rushing touchdowns, Tomlinson (currently 115) will pass Pro Football Hall of Famer MARCUS ALLEN
(123) to move into second place all-time.
Atlanta Falcons running back MICHAEL TURNER, who served as Tomlinson's understudy for four seasons in San Diego, observed Tomlinson's attributes firsthand.
NFL 2008 Quarterbacks Review & Preview
Last Season 7 QBs threw for 4,000 yards, the most ever in a single season
The NFL has a long history of excellence at the quarterback position, but the recent influx of poised
and accurate passers has been steady and remarkable. Coaches' schemes continue to grow more
and more complex, taking advantage of the unique talents of today's QBs. Last season Seven quarterbacks threw
for 4,000 yards, the most ever in a single season; PEYTON MANNING continued to rise to the top of
the NFL's record books; Tom Brady was named the 2007 AP NFL MVP after a record-shattering regular season
who set or tied nine NFL records; and Eli Manning took charge and marched the Giants to Super Bowl Victory and
was named Super Bowl XLII MVP.
NFL 2008: Peyton Manning Colts QB Continues Rising to Top of NFL Record Books
Peyton Manning can become 1st to throw 25 TDs 11 years in a row & pass for 4,000 yards in 9 different seasons.
Indianapolis Colts quarterback PEYTON MANNING continues to rise to the top of
the NFL's record books. In 2008, Manning can become the first QB in NFL annals to
throw 25 touchdowns in 11 years in a row as well as become the first to pass for 4,000
yards in nine different seasons. Manning's success has been attributed to his superior
work ethic, preparation, focus, dedication and competitive spirit.
NFL 2008 Kickoff & Punt Returners: Thank Devin For Many Happy Returns
Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears is Widely Considered the King of Return Specialists
With six combined kick-return touchdowns in 2007 (four punt and two kickoff), Chicago's DEVIN HESTER -- a Pro Bowl All-Star in each of his two NFL seasons -- is widely considered the
king of the return specialists. But there are several worthy adversaries to his throne. Though Hester's kick-return touchdown total set an NFL record, he led in neither kickoff nor
punt return average.
NFL 2008: Double Trouble Running Backs & Big Play Excitement Wide Receivers
Momentum comes in the form of a big play in the running or passing game.
Double-Trouble Running Backs seem to be all over the NFL. Guys like La Dainian Tomlinson, Brian Westbrook,
Joseph Addai and others. These are the running backs that can hurt you two ways: rushing or catching the ball.
Wide Receivers such as Torry Holt and Braylon Edwards produce momentum-changing exhilaration from their
teammates and the crowd.
NFL 2008: Active Streaks & Individual Accomplishments on the Horizon
Patriots & Colts Active Win Streaks; Peyton Manning & La Dainian Tomlinson Headline Individual Accomplishments
The National Football League's 2008 Season should be a year full of major individual and team record-breaking
performances. The New England Patriots look to continue building upon their regular season all-time winning streak
while the Indianapolis Colts are on track to extend their consecutive 12 or victories per season to six. Peyton Manning and La Dainian Tomlinson continue to expand on their Hall of Fame in the making individual
performances. Plus other NFL Players are likely to set or build upon great individual accomplishments.
NFL 2008 Running Backs: Tandem Backfields - Good Things Come in Pairs
Last season, 12 clubs boasted 2 running backs with at least 500 rushing yards apiece, including 5 playoff teams
"Tandem" backfields continue to grow! Last season, 12 clubs boasted two running backs with at least 500 rushing yards apiece, including five
playoff teams – the New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars and Seattle Seahawks.
Additionally, the Super Bowl XLII champion Giants became the fifth Super Bowl winning team since 2000 to feature
two running backs with more than 500 rushing yards each (2006 Colts, 2003 Patriots, 2002 Buccaneers, 2000 Ravens).
In the eight prior seasons, only one such team won the coveted Lombardi Trophy (1996 Packers)
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