While Leinart sits looking for more money, Jay Cutler, who some believe is better, makes a fine start for Denver.
Cutler impressive, but Lions edge Broncos
NFL.com wire reports
DETROIT (Aug. 11, 2006) -- Rod Marinelli remembers scurrying along the sideline before The Star-Spangled Banner, making sure the Lions were standing and holding their helmets properly.
Before Marinelli knew it, his debut as a head coach at any level was over.
Each of the Lions' quarterbacks -- Jon Kitna, Dan Orlovsky and Josh McCown -- led scoring drives and Detroit's defense caused three turnovers in a 20-13 victory against the Denver Broncos.
"I love to win," said Marinelli, a former defensive line coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "If we're playing marbles, I'm going to get you."
Third-string quarterback Bradlee Van Pelt drove Denver deep into Detroit territory in the final minute, but on a fourth-and-goal at the 9 his pass behind David Kircus was dropped.
"You couldn't have a better way to finish," Marinelli said. "I like pressure."
Kircus, a former Lions receiver competing for a spot on Denver's roster, had six catches for 76 yards and a score. But he only lamented his final opportunity.
"Any time you get a chance for the ball, have it touch your hand in the end zone on the last play of the game, it's heartbreaking when you don't bring it in," he said.
Even though his team lost, Broncos safety John Lynch was happy to see one of his former coaches get a chance to lead a team.
"This opportunity has been long overdue," Lynch said. "He was a defensive line coach with the Bucs, but he was more than that to guys on both sides of the ball. He's a special coach, and a great guy."
Damian Gregory (93) and Claude Harriott gang up on Denver's Bradlee Van Pelt.
The Lions led 10-0 early in the second quarter and, after losing the lead, went back ahead 17-13 midway through the third. Artose Pinner's 2-yard run was the go-ahead score, set up by Mike Williams' 24-yard catch from McCown. After Denver's third turnover, Matt Prater's field goal early in the fourth quarter gave Detroit a 20-13 lead.
Jay Cutler had a solid debut for the Broncos. The 11th pick in the draft was 16-for-22 for 192 yards and a touchdown.
"He played well, executed the offense," Denver coach Mike Shanahan said. "Both teams were very vanilla in their approach, so you don't get too excited. But a guy's got to go out there and perform, and I thought he showed a lot of poise."
Both starting quarterbacks, Kitna and Denver's Jake Plummer, played only one series and each moved the ball about 60 yards.
Kitna, signed as a free agent to replace Joey Harrington, converted consecutive third downs with an 18-yard pass to Roy Williams and a 10-yard run to set up Jason Hanson's 36-yard field goal.
Plummer got the Broncos past midfield with a 16-yard pass to Darius Watts, then Mike Bell fumbled two plays later -- less than a week after the undrafted rookie moved past Tatum Bell and Ron Dayne to become the No. 1 running back.
"We didn't like the fumble, but that's typical of young guys in the NFL," Shanahan said. "It's similar to what Clinton Portis went through as a rookie. That's why you play those guys in these situations."
Marinelli said earlier in the week McCown would be the second quarterback to play, but Orlovsky took snaps after the coaching staff decided to change plans. The second-year pro made a 24-yard pass to Corey Bradford on his first play and ended his first possession with a good read and accurate toss to running back Arlen Harris for a 20-yard TD and a 10-0 lead.
Cutler took advantage of a turnover by threading a pass through a zone to Tony Scheffler for a 15-yard gain, which set up Jason Elam's 36-yard kick. With 44 seconds left in the half, Cutler threw three passes for 27 yards and Tatum Bell had a 15-yard run before Elam made another field goal to make it 10-6 at halftime.
Tatum Bell finished with 26 yards on five carries and Mike Bell had 20 yards on seven rushes.
Denver went ahead 13-10 early in the third quarter. Cutler looked right and threw left to a wide-open Kircus.
The Lions had 16 players inactive, including five starters on defense and two first-string linemen on offense.
Denver had seven inactives, including receivers Javon Walker (knee) and Rod Smith (hamstring), cornerback Champ Bailey -- coming off a season slowed by shoulder and hamstring injuries -- and defensive end Courtney Brown, whose latest knee surgery was Aug. 9.
GAME NOTES:
After an impressive training camp and one reception for 9 yards, Broncos rookie WR Brandon Marshall left the game in the first half with a strained right knee. Shanahan said he didn't think the injury was serious.
Detroit TE Casey FitzSimmons, who had moved past Marcus Pollard on the depth chart, might be out for two weeks with an injured left wrist.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
Chad Pennington Sharp; Tampa Bay Bucs Rush For 167 - Get Win 16-3
Don't count Chad out; remember, he was injured.
Pennington plays well, but Bucs win 16-3
NFL.com wire reports
TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 11, 2006) -- Even if Eric Mangini isn't ready to say it, Chad Pennington looks like a quarterback ready to reclaim his job.
Playing for the first time since undergoing a second major operation on his right shoulder, Pennington worked two series in the New York Jets' 16-3 preseason loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"It's fun to be back out there with my teammates. That's most important," Pennington said. "You miss that when you're injured."
The seventh-year pro completed 9 of 14 passes for 54 yards and lost a fumble when he was sacked early in the second quarter. But more important for him and the Jets, his surgically repaired shoulder withstood the first hits he has taken since Week 3 of last season.
"I feel pretty good. I took a few shots, but everything worked out fine. That's what you work hard for," Pennington said. "I was pleased how everything turned out."
Whether he's officially No. 1, though, is unclear.
"That's completely up in the air," Mangini, the Jets' first-year coach, said when asked about the quarterback rotation for the next preseason game.
Rookie Bruce Gradkowski threw second-half touchdown passes of 11 yards to Paris Warren and 2 yards to third-round draft pick Maurice Stovall for Tampa Bay, which pulled its first-team defense after Pennington kept them on the field for a few more plays than the Bucs would have liked.
"We didn't give up any points," Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay's All-Pro linebacker said. "But obviously we would like to get off the field a little sooner."
Pennington completed his first five passes -- all short throws -- for 30 yards. He took his first real hit since the latest operation on his right rotator cuff when he ran for 5 yards and was tackled by cornerback Juran Bolden.
Maurice Stovall's touchdown catch closed the scoring.
The New York quarterback sustained his first drive with three third-down conversions, one a 9-yard completion to Tim Dwight. He moved the ball deep into Tampa Bay territory on the Jets' second possession, but fumbled when sacked by safety Kalvin Pearson on third-and-goal from the 5.
Mangini declined to reveal a starter for the preseason opener. Nevertheless, it wasn't a surprise when Pennington trotted onto the field to take the first snap. He has been No. 1 for parts of the past four seasons and has been having the best camp of any of the candidates for the job.
"I thought Chad did a really nice job with handling the huddle, with moving the football, with his decisions," Mangini said. "I thought he did a really good job."
The coach gave a less favorable review of the Jets' performance overall.
"Before the game, I talked to the players and said the important things were focus, communication and finish. That's what I was looking for," Mangini said.
"I think we did a pretty good job in the first half of moving the football. But we couldn't finish the drives and they could finish drives. That was the difference."
Rookie Kellen Clemens followed Pennington in the second quarter, leading a drive that produced Mike Nugent's 20-yard field goal on the last play of the half. Patrick Ramsey finished up for the Jets, who did not use Brooks Bollinger.
Chris Simms started for Tampa Bay and played one series. Tim Rattay directed a first-half field goal drive and Gradkowski, a sixth-round draft pick from Toledo, played most of the second half, completing 11 of 13 passes for 104 yards against New York's reserves.
"Of course we had some mistakes, but you expect that in the first preseason game," said Simms, who completed 2 of 3 passes for 5 yards. "We did some things well, too. It is a good building block."
Nearly all of Tampa Bay's starters were out by the second series, and three regulars on offense -- running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams, receiver Joey Galloway and tackle Kenyatta Walker -- didn't play. Cornerback Brian Kelly was missing on defense after being excused to attend to a personal matter.
GAME NOTES:
The Bucs rushed for 167 yards, with Earnest Graham gaining 69 on 17 carries and Carey Davis 67 on 14 attempts.
The Jets appeared to stop the second-quarter drive that ended with Matt Bryant's 25-yard field goal when they recovered Michael Pittman's fumble at the Bucs 42. Pittman was ruled down by contact, and the Jets challenged the call. The replay review confirmed that Pittman fumbled. However, the Jets were not awarded possession because the officials couldn't determine who immediately recovered the ball.
Bucs first-round draft pick Davin Joseph started at right guard and second-rounder Jeremy Trueblood started at right tackle.
The Jets waived CB Bruce Thornton and claimed FB Jamar Martin off waivers. DT Sione Pouha was placed on injured reserve.
Pennington plays well, but Bucs win 16-3
NFL.com wire reports
TAMPA, Fla. (Aug. 11, 2006) -- Even if Eric Mangini isn't ready to say it, Chad Pennington looks like a quarterback ready to reclaim his job.
Playing for the first time since undergoing a second major operation on his right shoulder, Pennington worked two series in the New York Jets' 16-3 preseason loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"It's fun to be back out there with my teammates. That's most important," Pennington said. "You miss that when you're injured."
The seventh-year pro completed 9 of 14 passes for 54 yards and lost a fumble when he was sacked early in the second quarter. But more important for him and the Jets, his surgically repaired shoulder withstood the first hits he has taken since Week 3 of last season.
"I feel pretty good. I took a few shots, but everything worked out fine. That's what you work hard for," Pennington said. "I was pleased how everything turned out."
Whether he's officially No. 1, though, is unclear.
"That's completely up in the air," Mangini, the Jets' first-year coach, said when asked about the quarterback rotation for the next preseason game.
Rookie Bruce Gradkowski threw second-half touchdown passes of 11 yards to Paris Warren and 2 yards to third-round draft pick Maurice Stovall for Tampa Bay, which pulled its first-team defense after Pennington kept them on the field for a few more plays than the Bucs would have liked.
"We didn't give up any points," Derrick Brooks, Tampa Bay's All-Pro linebacker said. "But obviously we would like to get off the field a little sooner."
Pennington completed his first five passes -- all short throws -- for 30 yards. He took his first real hit since the latest operation on his right rotator cuff when he ran for 5 yards and was tackled by cornerback Juran Bolden.
Maurice Stovall's touchdown catch closed the scoring.
The New York quarterback sustained his first drive with three third-down conversions, one a 9-yard completion to Tim Dwight. He moved the ball deep into Tampa Bay territory on the Jets' second possession, but fumbled when sacked by safety Kalvin Pearson on third-and-goal from the 5.
Mangini declined to reveal a starter for the preseason opener. Nevertheless, it wasn't a surprise when Pennington trotted onto the field to take the first snap. He has been No. 1 for parts of the past four seasons and has been having the best camp of any of the candidates for the job.
"I thought Chad did a really nice job with handling the huddle, with moving the football, with his decisions," Mangini said. "I thought he did a really good job."
The coach gave a less favorable review of the Jets' performance overall.
"Before the game, I talked to the players and said the important things were focus, communication and finish. That's what I was looking for," Mangini said.
"I think we did a pretty good job in the first half of moving the football. But we couldn't finish the drives and they could finish drives. That was the difference."
Rookie Kellen Clemens followed Pennington in the second quarter, leading a drive that produced Mike Nugent's 20-yard field goal on the last play of the half. Patrick Ramsey finished up for the Jets, who did not use Brooks Bollinger.
Chris Simms started for Tampa Bay and played one series. Tim Rattay directed a first-half field goal drive and Gradkowski, a sixth-round draft pick from Toledo, played most of the second half, completing 11 of 13 passes for 104 yards against New York's reserves.
"Of course we had some mistakes, but you expect that in the first preseason game," said Simms, who completed 2 of 3 passes for 5 yards. "We did some things well, too. It is a good building block."
Nearly all of Tampa Bay's starters were out by the second series, and three regulars on offense -- running back Carnell "Cadillac" Williams, receiver Joey Galloway and tackle Kenyatta Walker -- didn't play. Cornerback Brian Kelly was missing on defense after being excused to attend to a personal matter.
GAME NOTES:
The Bucs rushed for 167 yards, with Earnest Graham gaining 69 on 17 carries and Carey Davis 67 on 14 attempts.
The Jets appeared to stop the second-quarter drive that ended with Matt Bryant's 25-yard field goal when they recovered Michael Pittman's fumble at the Bucs 42. Pittman was ruled down by contact, and the Jets challenged the call. The replay review confirmed that Pittman fumbled. However, the Jets were not awarded possession because the officials couldn't determine who immediately recovered the ball.
Bucs first-round draft pick Davin Joseph started at right guard and second-rounder Jeremy Trueblood started at right tackle.
The Jets waived CB Bruce Thornton and claimed FB Jamar Martin off waivers. DT Sione Pouha was placed on injured reserve.
Alex Smith Leads 49ers Over Chicago Bears 28-14 - NFL.com
The 49ers best addition was Offensive Coordinator Norv Turner, and it showed.
49ers impress in 28-14 opening win
NFL.com wire reports
SAN FRANCISCO (Aug. 12, 2006) -- Frank Gore can see it in his quarterback's eyes. Alex Smith is ready to lead the San Francisco 49ers.
Brian Griese seems just as ready to lead the Chicago Bears -- and that might be bad news for Rex Grossman.
Smith passed for 137 yards and led the 49ers to a big early lead in their 28-14 exhibition victory over the Bears.
The 49ers had the league's worst offense and defense last season, but they were up 17-0 when Smith left after going 16 for 21 with no interceptions in perhaps the most confident performance of his short NFL career. New receiver Antonio Bryant had five receptions for 54 yards, and running back Frank Gore also caught five passes from last season's No. 1 overall draft pick.
"He's a grown man now," said Gore, who rushed for 49 yards and a score. "I looked in his eyes last year, and his eyes were like this."
Gore widened his eyes until his lids disappeared, suggesting fear and uncertainty.
"Now, he's a grown man," Gore concluded. "Alex wants it. That's what I respect about him. He wants to be great."
Alex Smith had one of his best performances as a pro quarterback.
Keeping the athletic Smith on the move with play-action and rollouts, the 49ers drove the ball with surprising ease against the defense that allowed the NFL's fewest points last season.
Smith led a 13-play scoring drive in the second quarter, pushing San Francisco 68 yards before Gore's 1-yard TD plunge.
"It was a ton of fun," said Smith, who had one touchdown pass and 11 interceptions in nine appearances last season. "I had so much anxious energy to go out and get something done. We worked really hard during this offseason and camp, and it's starting to show up."
Meanwhile, Chicago's first-team offense did nothing to erase memories of last season's bumbling unit, which was carried to the NFC North title by an outstanding defense. Grossman, who missed the first 13 regular-season games with a broken ankle, went 3 of 11 for just 47 yards while Chicago struggled to move forward.
The Niners forced two first-quarter turnovers that led to 10 points, including linebacker Jeff Ulbrich 's 32-yard TD return of Grossman's fumble.
"I just never really established any kind of rhythm," Grossman said. "I wasn't able to calm down and really feel in control of what I was doing. Tonight just wasn't a good night, and I'm glad it's over."
But Griese, signed in the offseason to give provide an alternative to the injury-plagued incumbent, led a 75-yard scoring drive late in the first half, capped by Gabe Reid 's 12-yard TD catch.
Griese did it again in the second half, guiding an 83-yard drive ending in Rashied Davis' 41-yard TD reception. Nearly 10 months after Griese's season ended in Tampa Bay with a knee injury, the veteran showed he's ready for more action.
"My biggest goal of this preseason is to make sure my knee feels good, and then show this team that I can lead them down the field and score," Griese said.
Coach Lovie Smith has insisted the Bears have faith in Grossman, but Griese -- who went 6 for 7 for 134 yards -- says he wants to start in Chicago.
When asked if a quarterback controversy was brewing, Smith smiled and said: "Rex is our starting quarterback. This is our first game. We'll go on to next week."
Gore got 10 carries and most of the first-team action in the latest indication he has passed Kevan Barlow, who got just one carry while nursing a bruised thigh, on the 49ers' depth chart.
But the 49ers' defense also did its share: Mark Bradley fumbled after a short reception on the Bears' opening drive, and Walt Harris recovered. Smith moved the 49ers into scoring range with short passes, and Joe Nedney hit a 33-yard field goal.
Grossman made the Bears' next big mistake, muffing a third-down snap and then fumbling the ball straight to Ulbrich, who returned it down the Chicago sideline for his first touchdown. Grossman then missed two open receivers on the Bears' first drive of the second quarter.
Notes: The 49ers replaced Smith with Jesse Palmer and Shaun Hill, who scrambled for a fourth-quarter touchdown. ... Chicago rested running backs Cedric Benson and Thomas Jones with minor injuries in front of a half-full Candlestick Park. ... Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher, whose NFL-record 108-yard return of a missed field goal ended the first half of Chicago's victory over the 49ers last season, was shaken up on a hit in the first quarter, but returned to the game.
Friday, August 11, 2006
Jerry Jones - Dallas Cowboys Owner Concerned About Offensive Line - Star Telegram
COWBOYS NOTES
Jones concerned with offensive line
By MAC ENGEL
Star-Telegram Staff Writer
STAR-TELEGRAM/RALPH LAUER
Terrell Owens wore a Discovery Channel cycling jersey and bike helmet as he watched practice Thursday.
OXNARD, Calif. -- The offensive line is what Jerry Jones calls a "challenge."
The Cowboys owner/general manager is excited about the prospects of seeing backup quarterback Tony Romo start, which is all but a certainty when the Cowboys start their preseason Saturday night in Seattle.
Jones isn't worried about Terrell Owens, or the circus that follows him.
But he is concerned about his O-line.
"That is our biggest challenge," Jones said. "[Flozell Adams] has got to improve, and will, coming off his knee surgery.
"I look across there [and] we have a lot of ifs there, got a lot of promises there. But that doesn't surprise me because we haven't competed that much against a situation to really evaluate it. But we haven't found out a lot at right tackle, either. That's the challenge."
Jones sounds cautiously optimistic that the Cowboys may have a quarterback of the future on their team. And they have one despite not going to the top of the draft and making the financial risk of acquiring a quarterback.
Whether that quarterback of the future is Romo or Drew Henson, he's not sure. But at least there is the chance.
"I can't help, at any position, to like to see a young player," Jones said. "It's something about knowing it's not just this game, but there is a lot in the future there.
"But I don't want my enthusiasm for the future to really, in any way, color the fact that with my expectations for this year it's going to be hard to get there with a rookie quarterback. In my mind, having never taken a snap in the NFL, that's a rookie quarterback."
Jones also said the team continues to discuss a contract extension with linebacker Bradie James. James' agent, Jimmy Sexton, has been at Cowboys camp the past few days.
But a Cowboys source said no deal is imminent and might not happen at all.
Spears close
Defensive tackle Marcus Spears, who has been out since the second day of camp with a cartilage tear in his knee, said he's close to returning. And unlike last season, when he missed a great deal of training camp as a rookie because of a sprained knee, this time is different.
"Physically, I'm there. I know the playbook now," Spears said. "Last year, I got so far behind; I didn't know what defense we were in."
Cowboys coach Bill Parcells said he expects fellow second-year lineman Jay Ratliff to push Spears for the job. Spears welcomes the challenge.
"It's all competition. At the end of the day you are teammates, but everybody wants to play, and I respect a guy that comes in and plays well," Spears said. "Nothing bad to say; Jay is playing great. When I come back I'll put my résumé on the table, and we'll see what happens."
SI's Mike Silver Ranks NFL Owners : Bob Kraft 1; Tom Benston 32
My long time friend Mike Silver of Sports Illustrated recently ranked all 32 NFL Owners, placing New England Patriots Owner Bob Kraft first and New Orleans Saints Owner Tom Bentson last, and he did that for Bentson's initally heartless plan to move the team in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.
But I know Sil wanted to place Al Davis lower than 25th ranking just for banning him from Raiders practices years ago. Still the 25th ranking means Sil's over it, and has been treated better by the Raiders, due in no small part to the behind the scenes work of Raiders PR guy -- and former Fox Sports announcer -- Artie Gigantino.
Al Gore - USA Today Column Is Just Plain Stupid
Leave it to the USA Today to give space to Peter Schweizer, of the conservative Hoover Institution, to write what has to be the dumbest column on Al Gore I've ever read. Look, maybe Al's not the poster child for conservation, but I'm sure it's occured to him that even his family needs to change its ways. So what? Does that reduce his message? No. Not one bit.
Let's take Peter Schweizer's point a step further. What Peter Schweizer's saying is that Gore should not preach conservation at all. But that's pap. Gore's message is obviously timely. And if it causes Gore and America to change, awesome.
Peter Schweizer. Here's my question to you: is it OK to pollute and not conserve? Is that what you're saying? Geez.
I think Media Girl's right about the GOP: reality's a bitch.
_______________________
Gore isn't quite as green as he's led the world to believe
Updated 8/10/2006 10:44 AM ET E-mail | Save | Print | Subscribe to stories like this
Enlarge By Rusty Kennedy, AP
Former Vice President Al Gore shakes hands with a woman after signing a copy of his book An Inconvenient Truth for her, in Philadelphia last month.
By Peter Schweizer
Graciously, Gore tells consumers how to change their lives to curb their carbon-gobbling ways: Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, use a clothesline, drive a hybrid, use renewable energy, dramatically cut back on consumption. Better still, responsible global citizens can follow Gore's example, because, as he readily points out in his speeches, he lives a "carbon-neutral lifestyle." But if Al Gore is the world's role model for ecology, the planet is doomed.
For someone who says the sky is falling, he does very little. He says he recycles and drives a hybrid. And he claims he uses renewable energy credits to offset the pollution he produces when using a private jet to promote his film. (In reality, Paramount Classics, the film's distributor, pays this.)
Public records reveal that as Gore lectures Americans on excessive consumption, he and his wife Tipper live in two properties: a 10,000-square-foot, 20-room, eight-bathroom home in Nashville, and a 4,000-square-foot home in Arlington, Va. (He also has a third home in Carthage, Tenn.) For someone rallying the planet to pursue a path of extreme personal sacrifice, Gore requires little from himself.
Then there is the troubling matter of his energy use. In the Washington, D.C., area, utility companies offer wind energy as an alternative to traditional energy. In Nashville, similar programs exist. Utility customers must simply pay a few extra pennies per kilowatt hour, and they can continue living their carbon-neutral lifestyles knowing that they are supporting wind energy. Plenty of businesses and institutions have signed up. Even the Bush administration is using green energy for some federal office buildings, as are thousands of area residents.
But according to public records, there is no evidence that Gore has signed up to use green energy in either of his large residences. When contacted Wednesday, Gore's office confirmed as much but said the Gores were looking into making the switch at both homes. Talk about inconvenient truths.
Gore is not alone. Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean has said, "Global warming is happening, and it threatens our very existence." The DNC website applauds the fact that Gore has "tried to move people to act." Yet, astoundingly, Gore's persuasive powers have failed to convince his own party: The DNC has not signed up to pay an additional two pennies a kilowatt hour to go green. For that matter, neither has the Republican National Committee.
Maybe our very existence isn't threatened.
Gore has held these apocalyptic views about the environment for some time. So why, then, didn't Gore dump his family's large stock holdings in Occidental (Oxy) Petroleum? As executor of his family's trust, over the years Gore has controlled hundreds of thousands of dollars in Oxy stock. Oxy has been mired in controversy over oil drilling in ecologically sensitive areas.
Living carbon-neutral apparently doesn't mean living oil-stock free. Nor does it necessarily mean giving up a mining royalty either.
Humanity might be "sitting on a ticking time bomb," but Gore's home in Carthage is sitting on a zinc mine. Gore receives $20,000 a year in royalties from Pasminco Zinc, which operates a zinc concession on his property. Tennessee has cited the company for adding large quantities of barium, iron and zinc to the nearby Caney Fork River.
The issue here is not simply Gore's hypocrisy; it's a question of credibility. If he genuinely believes the apocalyptic vision he has put forth and calls for radical changes in the way other people live, why hasn't he made any radical change in his life? Giving up the zinc mine or one of his homes is not asking much, given that he wants the rest of us to radically change our lives.
Peter Schweizer is a research fellow at the Hoover Institution and author of Do As I Say (Not As I Do): Profiles in Liberal Hypocrisy.
Let's take Peter Schweizer's point a step further. What Peter Schweizer's saying is that Gore should not preach conservation at all. But that's pap. Gore's message is obviously timely. And if it causes Gore and America to change, awesome.
Peter Schweizer. Here's my question to you: is it OK to pollute and not conserve? Is that what you're saying? Geez.
I think Media Girl's right about the GOP: reality's a bitch.
_______________________
Gore isn't quite as green as he's led the world to believe
Updated 8/10/2006 10:44 AM ET E-mail | Save | Print | Subscribe to stories like this
Enlarge By Rusty Kennedy, AP
Former Vice President Al Gore shakes hands with a woman after signing a copy of his book An Inconvenient Truth for her, in Philadelphia last month.
By Peter Schweizer
Graciously, Gore tells consumers how to change their lives to curb their carbon-gobbling ways: Switch to compact fluorescent light bulbs, use a clothesline, drive a hybrid, use renewable energy, dramatically cut back on consumption. Better still, responsible global citizens can follow Gore's example, because, as he readily points out in his speeches, he lives a "carbon-neutral lifestyle." But if Al Gore is the world's role model for ecology, the planet is doomed.
For someone who says the sky is falling, he does very little. He says he recycles and drives a hybrid. And he claims he uses renewable energy credits to offset the pollution he produces when using a private jet to promote his film. (In reality, Paramount Classics, the film's distributor, pays this.)
Public records reveal that as Gore lectures Americans on excessive consumption, he and his wife Tipper live in two properties: a 10,000-square-foot, 20-room, eight-bathroom home in Nashville, and a 4,000-square-foot home in Arlington, Va. (He also has a third home in Carthage, Tenn.) For someone rallying the planet to pursue a path of extreme personal sacrifice, Gore requires little from himself.
Then there is the troubling matter of his energy use. In the Washington, D.C., area, utility companies offer wind energy as an alternative to traditional energy. In Nashville, similar programs exist. Utility customers must simply pay a few extra pennies per kilowatt hour, and they can continue living their carbon-neutral lifestyles knowing that they are supporting wind energy. Plenty of businesses and institutions have signed up. Even the Bush administration is using green energy for some federal office buildings, as are thousands of area residents.
But according to public records, there is no evidence that Gore has signed up to use green energy in either of his large residences. When contacted Wednesday, Gore's office confirmed as much but said the Gores were looking into making the switch at both homes. Talk about inconvenient truths.
Gore is not alone. Democratic National Committee Chairman Howard Dean has said, "Global warming is happening, and it threatens our very existence." The DNC website applauds the fact that Gore has "tried to move people to act." Yet, astoundingly, Gore's persuasive powers have failed to convince his own party: The DNC has not signed up to pay an additional two pennies a kilowatt hour to go green. For that matter, neither has the Republican National Committee.
Maybe our very existence isn't threatened.
Gore has held these apocalyptic views about the environment for some time. So why, then, didn't Gore dump his family's large stock holdings in Occidental (Oxy) Petroleum? As executor of his family's trust, over the years Gore has controlled hundreds of thousands of dollars in Oxy stock. Oxy has been mired in controversy over oil drilling in ecologically sensitive areas.
Living carbon-neutral apparently doesn't mean living oil-stock free. Nor does it necessarily mean giving up a mining royalty either.
Humanity might be "sitting on a ticking time bomb," but Gore's home in Carthage is sitting on a zinc mine. Gore receives $20,000 a year in royalties from Pasminco Zinc, which operates a zinc concession on his property. Tennessee has cited the company for adding large quantities of barium, iron and zinc to the nearby Caney Fork River.
The issue here is not simply Gore's hypocrisy; it's a question of credibility. If he genuinely believes the apocalyptic vision he has put forth and calls for radical changes in the way other people live, why hasn't he made any radical change in his life? Giving up the zinc mine or one of his homes is not asking much, given that he wants the rest of us to radically change our lives.
Peter Schweizer is a research fellow at the Hoover Institution and author of Do As I Say (Not As I Do): Profiles in Liberal Hypocrisy.
LenDale White Shows His Ass To Titans - Spits In Face Of Player
No. He didn't do it to Vince Young!
Clash of Titans is spit for spat
White-Nickey fight draws ire of Fisher
By JIM WYATT
Staff Writer
CLARKSVILLE — On the final day of a stay at Austin Peay intended to help forge character, the Titans experienced an ugly incident Coach Jeff Fisher hopes is out of character.
Rookie running back LenDale White spit in the face of veteran safety Donnie Nickey during the morning practice, leading to a fight involving several players.
"There's a code of ethics on the field and it was violated,'' Fisher said. "We've addressed it, it is over and it is done with.
When it gets hot and you get at the end of camp and get going, things happen. You don't want to see that. But it has all been addressed and taken care of.
"LenDale understands he crossed the line and you just don't do that. It will not happen again. I assure you, it will not happen again.''
White, one of the nation's top running backs last season at Southern California, came to the Titans as a result of some controversy.
Most NFL Draft experts believe he slid all the way to the second round, where the Titans selected him 45th overall, because of questions about his attitude as much as his injured hamstring.
Thursday's developments probably didn't endear White to his new teammates, who were instructed by Fisher not to speak to the media about the spitting incident. Coming off the field, White wasn't talking much either.
"It's competition at its finest, that's all,'' he said of the fight.
Asked whether he spit on Nickey, White shook his head and said, "No comment.''
In the middle of a crowd of teammates following afternoon practice, White denied it.
"What are you talking about?" he said. "It didn't happen.''
Nickey, a fourth-year pro, declined comment.
It began when White, who was carrying the ball, collided with Nickey. At the end of the play, Nickey immediately accused White of spitting on him. Other defensive players immediately backed him up to nearby coaches. At one point, Nickey took his helmet off and took a swing at White with it.
Minutes later, Nickey ran across the field and knocked down White, who had failed to haul in a pass near the sideline. White got up and elbowed safety Vincent Fuller. Several other defenders jumped in, including rookie cornerback Cortland Finnegan, and Nickey began throwing punches.
When the players were separated, Fisher then sounded off, loud enough that everyone could hear him. He accused Nickey of a "cheap shot" and threatened to suspend him for a month if he removed his helmet again.
White is expected to be fined by the Titans. When Fisher spoke about the incident with reporters later in the day, a fine for Nickey seemed less likely.
"There are times when the head coach doesn't know everything that happens and this is one of those examples, and I apologized to Donnie,'' Fisher said. "But there is stuff that goes on out there that shouldn't have been out there. Donnie understands. LenDale understands he crossed the line and you just don't do that.
"You don't want to see that happen, but there will be no lasting, lingering effect. It has all been addressed and taken care of.''
The Titans left Austin Peay on Thursday night and open their preseason schedule on Saturday night against the New Orleans Saints at LP Field. Training camp resumes Monday at MetroCenter.
"It's hot out, the last day out here, we're just getting after it,'' linebacker Keith Bulluck said. "We haven't had a dress rehearsal yet. Maybe that's a prelude to Saturday night, minus all the extracurriculars. Hey, it's football. Tempers are going to flare in football.''
Matt Leinart At Cardinals Training Camp Before Holdout
This video captures Arizona Cardinals rookie QB Matt Leinart throwing footballs at Arizona Cardinals Training Camp. Leinart -- tied up in contract negotiations -- is out of training camp as of this writing.
Eagles 20, Browns 7 - Kellen Winslow Returns
Eagles post solid 20-7 win over Browns
NFL.com wire reports
PHILADELPHIA (Aug. 10, 2006) -- Kellen Winslow made some blocks, caught a couple passes and took a few hits.
The highlight-reel catches and touchdown celebrations can wait. For now, this was progress.
Playing his first game in nearly two years, the Browns tight end made two catches in Cleveland's 20-7 preseason loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
"It was really good to get back out there," said Winslow, whose career was stalled by an in-game leg injury and a motorcycle accident. "I just wanted to get tackled to get some confidence back."
Donovan McNabb looked sharp for the second straight game, and Jeff Garcia connected with Darnerien McCants on a 32-yard touchdown pass for the Eagles (1-1).
McNabb completed his first five passes and finished 7 for 9 for 78 yards. He led the Eagles to a score on the opening drive and went to the sideline after the second series.
"We were able to execute when we needed to," McNabb said. "We've still got some work to do, but it's a great beginning."
Eager to get the season started, Winslow walked out to midfield in full uniform about two hours before kickoff while everyone else was still in warmups.
After blocking on the first two plays, Winslow caught a pass that was nullified by a defensive penalty on third down. He had a 6-yard reception on the following play, and added a 1-yard catch later.
"He made some plays and looked good making them," Browns coach Romeo Crennel said. "He looked like a pretty decent guy running around out there and that was encouraging to see."
The Browns didn't get much from anyone else. Both the starters and backups on offense were equally inept in their preseason opener, putting up 99 total yards through 3 1/2 quarters.
Starting quarterback Charlie Frye was 4 of 7 for 23 yards, before taking a seat. Backup quarterback Ken Dorsey completed 5 of 10 passes for 48 yards. Reuben Droughns rushed four times for 21 yards.
Winslow, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2004 draft, hadn't played since he broke his right fibula at Dallas on Sept. 19, 2004. He sat out all of last year after a motorcycle accident on May 1, 2005 injured his knee so badly that it required several surgeries and was complicated by a staph infection.
"I thought I did OK," Winslow said. "I wanted to get my feet underneath me and take a hit on my knee."
Philadelphia rookie wideout Hank Baskett made an outstanding diving catch on a 33-yard pass from McNabb to Cleveland's 2, but Philadelphia's opening drive stalled and the Eagles settled for a 22-yard field goal by David Akers.
Garcia hit McCants perfectly in stride on a go-route for a touchdown pass that put Philadelphia ahead 10-0 in the third quarter. He led the Eagles on another scoring drive capped by Thomas Tapeh 's 4-yard touchdown run that made it 17-0 late in the third.
Garcia finished 8 for 11 for 125 yards and one touchdown. Timmy Chang, competing for the No. 3 spot with Koy Detmer, completed his only pass. Detmer didn't play.
The Eagles used a makeshift backfield featuring fourth-string running back Reno Mahe because Brian Westbrook, Ryan Moats (knee), Correll Buckhalter (knee) and Bruce Perry (concussion) were sidelined. Mahe ran seven times for 10 yards on the first drive, but left with a concussion. Newly signed Marty Johnson had 47 yards on 12 carries.
Notes: Eagles coach Andy Reid angrily denied an apparent report that Pro Bowl long snapper Mike Bartrum had suffered a heart attack. The team said Bartrum didn't play because of an undisclosed illness. Reid said Bartrum will see a doctor on Aug. 11. ... Browns WR Braylon Edwards didn't make the trip. He's returning from a torn ACL and hopes to play in the season opener on Sept. 10. ... Eagles rookie DT Brodrick Bunkley almost recorded a sack on his third play. Bunkley, the 14th-overall pick in this year's draft, sat out Philadelphia's preseason opener after a two-week holdout. ... Browns CB Gary Baxter (pec) and DL J'Vonne Parker (foot) left with injuries.
LaVar Arrington Out For Giants Preseason Opener
Well, at least it's just the first preseason game...
Arrington to miss preseason opener
NFL.com wire reports
ALBANY, N.Y. (Aug. 9, 2006) -- The New York Giants will have to wait at least another week to see linebacker LaVar Arrington playing for them in a game.
Arrington, signed in the offseason and touted as a key addition as the Giants seek to elevate themselves into a Super Bowl contender, will miss New York's preseason opener against Baltimore Aug. 11 with soreness in his right knee.
Giants coach Tom Coughlin confirmed after practice that the three-time Pro Bowler would miss the game.
"We're in the process of developing a way in which we can manage this thing with him," Coughlin said. "As we go forward, we'll be under those guidelines. If we get him back next week, that will be fine. I'll be OK with that."
The soreness is affecting the same knee Arrington underwent two surgeries on in 2004 and 2005 when he was with the Washington Redskins. At Giants camp this month, he participated in team drills for the first week but has worked only briefly in one practice since Aug. 4. He watched from the sidelines again Aug. 9 at the University at Albany.
Arrington seemed unconcerned about the missed time.
"Whenever you have surgical procedures there's always things you have to pay attention to," he said. "I'm not in any danger zone, healthwise or anything like that. This is just the course the training staff has chosen to take. They're approaching it the right way. All I can do is pay attention and be a student of the game and pay attention and be ready."
Arrington suffered the original injury early in the 2004 season and had surgery to repair torn cartilage. He reinjured the knee in practice a month later, missed several more games and played a limited role in two more, then was put on injured reserve that December.
He underwent a second surgery in January 2005, at which time he publicly lashed out at the Redskins, claiming they didn't support him during the time he was injured and implying that he was rushed back too soon.
So far, he has given rave reviews to the Giants training staff.
"I'm not even in a situation where they would need to do what they're doing, but instead they're making 100 percent sure I'm OK and I think that's awesome," he said. "I think they saw how hard and how much I was doing when I was out there and they're forcing me to pace myself. It's a long season. You have to be mindful of that."
Arrington's history and his publicized disputes with the Redskins have focused extra attention on him at Giants camp. Arrington himself is keenly aware that his every move is being dissected and analyzed.
"I know at the end of the day when I get back on the field people will say, 'Oh, he really was telling the truth,"' he said. "The minute I knew they were going to slow me down, I knew this was going to be a media issue due to my having the injury in Washington. I'm telling you guys the total, 100 percent truth. I'm not holding anything back. We're staying the course, we're troubleshooting and making sure I'm as healthy as I possibly can be."
The Giants added Arrington for his pass-rushing abilities and to strengthen a linebacking corps that was wrecked by injuries last season. Starters Antonio Pierce, Reggie Torbor and Carlos Emmons finished the season on the sidelines, and four linebackers wound up on injured reserve.
Arrington to miss preseason opener
NFL.com wire reports
ALBANY, N.Y. (Aug. 9, 2006) -- The New York Giants will have to wait at least another week to see linebacker LaVar Arrington playing for them in a game.
Arrington, signed in the offseason and touted as a key addition as the Giants seek to elevate themselves into a Super Bowl contender, will miss New York's preseason opener against Baltimore Aug. 11 with soreness in his right knee.
Giants coach Tom Coughlin confirmed after practice that the three-time Pro Bowler would miss the game.
"We're in the process of developing a way in which we can manage this thing with him," Coughlin said. "As we go forward, we'll be under those guidelines. If we get him back next week, that will be fine. I'll be OK with that."
The soreness is affecting the same knee Arrington underwent two surgeries on in 2004 and 2005 when he was with the Washington Redskins. At Giants camp this month, he participated in team drills for the first week but has worked only briefly in one practice since Aug. 4. He watched from the sidelines again Aug. 9 at the University at Albany.
Arrington seemed unconcerned about the missed time.
"Whenever you have surgical procedures there's always things you have to pay attention to," he said. "I'm not in any danger zone, healthwise or anything like that. This is just the course the training staff has chosen to take. They're approaching it the right way. All I can do is pay attention and be a student of the game and pay attention and be ready."
Arrington suffered the original injury early in the 2004 season and had surgery to repair torn cartilage. He reinjured the knee in practice a month later, missed several more games and played a limited role in two more, then was put on injured reserve that December.
He underwent a second surgery in January 2005, at which time he publicly lashed out at the Redskins, claiming they didn't support him during the time he was injured and implying that he was rushed back too soon.
So far, he has given rave reviews to the Giants training staff.
"I'm not even in a situation where they would need to do what they're doing, but instead they're making 100 percent sure I'm OK and I think that's awesome," he said. "I think they saw how hard and how much I was doing when I was out there and they're forcing me to pace myself. It's a long season. You have to be mindful of that."
Arrington's history and his publicized disputes with the Redskins have focused extra attention on him at Giants camp. Arrington himself is keenly aware that his every move is being dissected and analyzed.
"I know at the end of the day when I get back on the field people will say, 'Oh, he really was telling the truth,"' he said. "The minute I knew they were going to slow me down, I knew this was going to be a media issue due to my having the injury in Washington. I'm telling you guys the total, 100 percent truth. I'm not holding anything back. We're staying the course, we're troubleshooting and making sure I'm as healthy as I possibly can be."
The Giants added Arrington for his pass-rushing abilities and to strengthen a linebacking corps that was wrecked by injuries last season. Starters Antonio Pierce, Reggie Torbor and Carlos Emmons finished the season on the sidelines, and four linebackers wound up on injured reserve.
Rams 19, Colts 17, Two Views Of A Game
Here are two views of the Rams / Colts preseason game -- the Colts' view, followed by the Rams view
Colts View:
OPENING UP
By John Oehser - Colts.com
Colts Lose to St. Louis Rams in Preseason Opener
ST. LOUIS, Mo. – The Colts’ preseason ideal is to win.
That doesn’t necessarily mean winning on the scoreboard, Colts Head Coach Tony Dungy said this past week. Sometimes, it means winning segments of the game, in particular key phases when starters and prominent reserves play.
The Colts didn’t win their preseason opener.
Still, they had their share of solid moments – particularly early, before the reserves and rookies entered in the second quarter. The result was mixed emotions from Dungy following the preseason opener – a 19-17 loss to the St. Louis Rams Thursday night in front of an announced 60,620 at the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis.
Yes, the Colts very much wanted to win, which they haven’t done in the preseason since 2004.
But no, the scene afterward wasn’t all disappointment.
“We’re kind of in the same mode we were in ’05,” Dungy said, referring to last season, when the Colts went 0-5 during the preseason before winning their first 13 regular-season games.
“We did some good things, but not enough to win. We’re disappointed not to get the win. We’d like to give ourselves a chance at the end, but there were some positive things.”
The Colts had a chance late despite playing without five defensive starters, including safeties Mike Doss and Bob Sanders, defensive tackle Montae Reagor, cornerback Jason David and three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Dwight Freeney.
Middle linebacker Gary Brackett left the game with a knee injury, but Dungy said it isn’t expected to be serious.
“We didn’t have a lot of defensive players, and we kind of wore down with the guys that did finish, but there were some positive things,” Dungy said.
The Colts not only started well against the Rams, moving 59 yards in seven efficient plays on the game’s first series, reserve quarterback Shaun King continued to show a knack for making key plays, rallying the Colts from a nine-point second-half deficit.
King, who last Saturday rallied the offense to victory in the team’s annual Blue-and-White game with a last-play touchdown pass, on Thursday played the entire second half. Late in the half, he nearly led the Colts to victory.
The Colts, who struggled offensively in the second, third and early fourth quarters, cut the nine-point second-half deficit to two when King threw deep to wide Levon Thomas.
Thomas, a first-year veteran from Georgia Tech, outwrestled a Rams defender for the ball, then dived into the end zone for the touchdown with 10:50 remaining.
Indianapolis regained possession, but after a punt, the Rams ran out the clock.
The Colts began in the fashion they hoped – with an efficient drive from the first-team offense.
The Colts surprised the Rams with an onside kick on the opening kickoff, and after cornerback Von Hutchins recovered, Indianapolis had possession on its 41.
With quarterback Peyton Manning, the NFL’s Most Valuable Player in 2003 and 2004, throwing accurately, the Colts moved 59 yards in seven plays, with Manning capping the drive with an 8-yard touchdown
pass to tight end Ben Utecht.
Manning completed three of five passes on the drive for 50 yards, including a 31-yard stop-and-go completion to six-year veteran Reggie Wayne. Dominic Rhodes, who started at running back, had 10 yards on four carries, playing only the first quarter.
Joseph Addai, the Colts’ first-round selection in this past April’s NFL Draft, played much of the second quarter, and finished with three yards on three carries.
Manning said he expects the duo to share carries – and for each to work extensively with the first team – throughout the preseason.
“It’s only fair if you give both of those guys equal reps with the first unit,” Manning said. “It’s really the best way to get a good evaluation and to be fair to those guys. I think we’ll give Joseph more opportunities to get in there with the first unit and get in the normal flow of the offense.”
Addai said no matter when he played, the experience of his first NFL game was valuable.
“It was cool, though,” Addai said. “It was a good learning experience, I think. Now, it’s going out and watching the plays, learning from it and trying to get better next week.”
Addai said he wasn’t disappointed with his carries.
“I understand how the preseason goes,” he said. “You’re trying to get everybody in the game and understand what’s going on. I understand it. I just try to make much of what I get.
“I’m more comfortable and relaxed now. Now, I understand what it takes in a real game.”
Defensively, the Rams played seven and eight defenders near the line of scrimmage. That helped keep the Colts’ running opportunities to a minimum, Dungy said.
“They’ll be fine,” Dungy said of Rhodes and Addai. “I don’t think people will want to play us like that all the time. We’ll take our chances if they do.”
Said Manning, “The Rams threw a lot at us early on.”
After the opening series, the Colts’ offense managed just 65 yards offensively in the half, with a 53-yard field goal by newly-signed kicker Adam Vinatieri later in the quarter giving Indianapolis a 10-5 lead.
The Rams, who pulled to within 7-5 on a safety and a 33-yard field goal by Remy Hamilton, took a 12-10 lead with 19 seconds remaining in the first quarter. The lead came on a 7-yard touchdown run by Travis Fisher.
With backup quarterback Jim Sorgi playing the second quarter with the Colts’ reserves, the Rams extended their lead to 19-10 on a 1-yard run by veteran running back Mo Williams.
Dungy had said this week it was tricky preparing for the Rams because St. Louis had a new coaching staff under first-year Head Coach Scott Linehan. That meant there was no game tape available, which made game-planning difficult.
“They blitzed us a lot, and if you can’t make them pay in the passing game, it’s going to be a tough day,” Dungy said. “Our first drive we did, and Shaun hit one, but overall, we didn’t make enough plays against the blitz.
“It was tough for us, not knowing exactly what type of defense they were going to choose. We couldn’t get a lot of tape on them.
“But all in all, some things we can build on.”
Rams View
Rams Edge Colts in Linehan Debut
Thursday, August 10, 2006
By Nick Wagoner
Senior Writer
An inauspicious beginning to the Scott Linehan era turned into the type of power running/dominant defensive performance that Linehan hopes to instill in the new era of Rams football.
Tony Dungy wasted no time welcoming Linehan to the NFL. After the Rams won the coin toss and elected to receive, kicker Adam Vinatieri booted an onside kick that the Colts recovered and subsequently scored on.
“You expect anything during the preseason,” Linehan said. “Maybe it was a little indoctrination into the head coaching ranks by Coach Dungy, but I understand it. It worked. Hats off to them.”
By the time the Rams had settled down, their starters were off the field, but the second and third units came through with a powerful rushing attack complemented by a suffocating defense.
Ultimately, it was Linehan who got the last laugh as the Rams overcame the special teams blunder and hung on to beat Indianapolis 19-17 Thursday night at the Edward Jones Dome.
Soon after his hire, Linehan made it clear that the running game would be a big part of the team’s offense, something that hadn’t been the case in the previous regime. If his first go at being a head coach in any indication, Linehan is a man of his word.
St. Louis finished with 40 rushes for 202 yards and two touchdowns divided among a group of five running backs. The defense chipped in with four sacks, an interception, a safety and held the Colts to 249 yards, 38 of which were rushing yards.
“A couple of things I was very happy about was our ability to run the ball and stop the run,” Linehan said. “It’s an easier game when you are able to do those two things. We have obviously got players that can do a lot of things not only in the running game, but in the passing game. It certainly makes you feel in a rhythm and a lot better about what you are doing on a consistent basis when you feel like you can go to the run game.”
And, though the Rams blitzed fairly often, Linehan said that is a product of the way the system is going to be. It didn’t hurt that it came in response to an onside kick to start the game.
“You didn’t see 85 percent of Jim Haslett’s blitzes tonight,” Linehan said. “That’s how we play. Some teams are vanilla type of team. We are going to be multiple. We have things we have to work and things we have to prepare for. We have to get better at it. Multiple blitzes and onside kicks, I don’t know how you be too critical of either one.”
The Rams used a balanced attack in the first two series with the starters on the field, but soon after, it became predominantly a rushing attack that ran over the Colts.
Backup Tony Fisher proved his worth as the No. 2 to Steven Jackson, showing elusiveness previously unseen on his way to five carries for 33 yards and what would prove the touchdown that put the Rams ahead for good with 19 seconds left in the first quarter.
That 7-yard run and the ensuing extra point gave the Rams a 12-10 lead they would not relinquish. On their next possession, the Rams added to their lead as Ryan Fitzpatrick took over at quarterback.
Fitzpatrick, involved in a battle for the third signal caller job with Dave Ragone, promptly made his case for the job by marching the Rams 80 yards on the way to Moe Williams’ 1-yard touchdown run.
Fitzpatrick’s evening came to an end in the third quarter as he ended the evening eight-of-11 for 51 yards.
Williams, signed last week to compete with Fisher for the No. 2 running back job, made a strong case for himself as well. He finished with seven carries for 17 yards with a touchdown and had three catches for 19 yards. His touchdown plunge made it 19-10 Rams.
Those touchdowns helped erase the memory of the first quarter in which the Indianapolis starters outplayed the Rams’ first-unit. After the onside kick recovery, Peyton Manning took the Colts down the field quickly before hitting tight end Ben Utecht for an 8-yard touchdown to give Indianapolis a 7-0 lead.
“We have to be a little bit tighter in coverage, put a little bit more pressure on him,” Linehan said. “I was very happy with the way the defense came back out and never let it affect them. I know our defense is growing and becoming a tight unit and I’m really satisfied with where we are at right now.”
The Rams’ defense responded with its first points of the Jim Haslett era after Matt Turk’s punt pinned the Colts at their 2. On second down, cornerback Fakhir Brown made his first impression as a Ram, blindsiding Jim Sorgi and forcing a fumble that was recovered by the Colts in the end zone for a safety. That score made it 7-2.
On the ensuing possession, the Rams marched to the Indianapolis 15 before settling for Remy Hamilton’s 33-yard field goal to make it 7-5 Indianapolis. That drive was highlighted by Jackson’s 23-yard run and brought the first-team offense’s night to an end.
Jackson finished with 41 yards on five carries for an average of 8.2 per attempt. Quarterback Marc Bulger was three-of-six for 51 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. More important, though, is the fact that Bulger made it out of the game healthy after taking some shots from the Indianapolis defense.
The Colts made a late run at the win as Shaun King hit Levon Thomas for a 40-yard touchdown to make it 19-17 Rams. The St. Louis defense held serve, though, and the Rams escaped with the first preseason win of Linehan’s young career.
Mike Douglas - Mike Douglas Passes Away At 81
I just got the news that Mike Douglas passed away at 81 years old. I basically grew up with the Mike Douglas Show, so it's as if a little part of me passed on with him.
For those of you who don't know about him, here's a video clip of Mike Douglas with Tom Waits, followed by a bio.
Mike Douglas bio from Wikipedia
Mike Douglas (born Michael Delaney Dowd, Jr., August 11, 1925 in Chicago, Illinois, died August 11, 2006 in North Palm Beach, Florida) was an American entertainer.
After serving briefly in the United States Navy near the end of World War II, Douglas became a vocalist in the big band of Kay Kyser, with whom he was featured on two notable hits, "Ole Buttermilk Sky" in 1946 and "The Old Lamplighter" the following year. He remained part of Kyser's band until Kyser retired from show business in 1951.
He next surfaced in 1961 in Cleveland, where he was hired for $400 a week as an afternoon television talk-show host at KYW-TV. The show rapidly gained popularity, and ultimately, national syndication in August 1963 on five Westinghouse-owned stations. It stopped broadcasting live in 1965 after guest Zsa Zsa Gabor used inappropriate language on the air. The program moved to Philadelphia in June of 1965. Guests ranged from Truman Capote and Richard M. Nixon to The Rolling Stones and Herman's Hermits. The show helped introduce entertainers such as Barbra Streisand and Aretha Franklin. Regrettably, Streisand's appearance, like many others of this era, was discarded by KYW-TV.
After the move to Philadelphia, Douglas also attempted to revive his own singing career, logging his lone Top 40 single as a solo artist, "The Men In My Little Girl's Life," in 1966.
By 1967 The Mike Douglas Show was broadcasting to 171 markets and 6,000,000 viewers each day, mostly women at home. It earned $10.5 million from advertisers, while its host was paid more than $500,000. In 1967, the program received the first Emmy Award for Individual Achievement in Daytime Television from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
Douglas became a local cultural icon in Philadelphia, often inviting prominent players from the city's professional sports teams to be guests on his show (he had a particular affinity for the city's pro football team, the Philadelphia Eagles, constantly referring to the team as "Our Eagles," and he could often be seen in attendance at Eagles' home games, especially whenever they appeared on Monday Night Football). He also assisted in mayor Frank Rizzo's campaign against derisive jokes often told by outsiders about the city, acting as chief spokesperson for the "Anti-Defamation Agency" Rizzo had set up for this purpose.
In July of 1978, the talk show's home base was transferred to Los Angeles, where it remained until finally going off the air in 1981. A second series, "The Mike Douglas Entertainment Hour," ended production in 1982.
Douglas passed away on his 81st birthday, August 11, 2006.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Curtis Martin - Picts of Curtis Martin Walking Without A Limp
I remember when we were out at Jets camp two weekends ago.
Ken Berger and i were in the same interview with Curtis. He swore he was playing opening day. He also was NOT walking with a limp 12 days ago(or 11).
So now it's constantly swelling and he's limping? We even have Pics of him walking Without a Limp!!
Bob McNair - Houston Texans Owner Talks About 2006 Season
| Bob McNair is the founder and CEO of the Houston Texans. In this candid interview he talks about the off-season changes from new head coach to new general manager to the controversial first round draft pick of Mario Williams from North Carolina State. He also discusses 2006 expectations and other changes on the team roster as the Texans begin their fifth season in the NFL. | |
Google Video - Google Option Bar Now Features Video
If you check out the option bar on Google pages, there's a new feature: video.
This is an exciting development which just by the quick availablity of video will change the way we see content online.
I think we're entering a new World where the definition of media has expanded to include web portals which not only give information in combination of video, text, and sound, but present information for use in -- for example the classroom -- using video, text, and sound, as well as games --- which are just another way of presenting media.
That kind of company is Sports Business Simulations.
This is an exciting development which just by the quick availablity of video will change the way we see content online.
I think we're entering a new World where the definition of media has expanded to include web portals which not only give information in combination of video, text, and sound, but present information for use in -- for example the classroom -- using video, text, and sound, as well as games --- which are just another way of presenting media.
That kind of company is Sports Business Simulations.
Heathrow - A380 lands at Heathrow - Is It Safe From Terrorists
| Watch the historic first landing of Airbus'A380 at legendary London Heathrow Airport as it was captured by the AirU team from www.airutopia.com The A380's service takes new focus in the wake of the plot to bomb planes out of Heathrow. Since this airport can accomodate the World's Largest Passenger Plane, the A380 will certainly become a terrorist target. Other than airport security, what on-board measures have been installed? This is a question that should be adressed. | |
9-11: CNN's Lou Dobbs Talks Of Possible Lies Regarding Government Involvement
This segment of Lou Dobbs' show is pattern-breaking in that Lou's seemingly conservative take would make one think he and his staff would not give airtime to such allegations as...
1) Americans don't know the whole truth behind the government's response to 9-11
2) Pentagon made mistatements.
3) FAA and Norad gave an untrue account of their response.
4) Government officials were not forthcoming with information
There's more. Here's the video.
1) Americans don't know the whole truth behind the government's response to 9-11
2) Pentagon made mistatements.
3) FAA and Norad gave an untrue account of their response.
4) Government officials were not forthcoming with information
There's more. Here's the video.
Heathrow - Airlines Not Helping Passengers According To This Blogger
Jae in England notes that the airlines are not being helpful regarding getting the right information to passengers.
US Terror Threat Condition At Severe; No Liquid Gels In Carry-On Bags - TSA Website
In response to the Heathrow bomb plot, the US Terror Threat level is now at "Severe."
Here's what they posted:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. This includes all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Well, I'm safe here, as I always put my lotions and bathroom items in checked luggage.
But they do make an exception for baby milk and formula.
But what about meals on flights? Does this mean I can't buy a meal anymore?
Here's what they posted:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY-ON BAGGAGE. ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE. This includes all beverages, shampoo, suntan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Well, I'm safe here, as I always put my lotions and bathroom items in checked luggage.
But they do make an exception for baby milk and formula.
But what about meals on flights? Does this mean I can't buy a meal anymore?
Heathrow - Plot To Bomb Planes In UK Blocked, But Worldwide Travel Chaos Results
It happened for me last night, flipping channels to CNN to see thousands of people crowded into a main terminal at London's Heathrow Airport. While this CNN report below explains it in detail, what can't be replicated is the sheer terror at play around the World. It still makes you wonder if any place is safe. And it makes you wonder to what degree US international policy is at fault.
Plane plot involved 'explosive cocktail,' official says
Air travel in chaos after plot to bomb airliners exposed
Thursday, August 10, 2006; Posted: 4:24 p.m. EDT (20:24 GMT)
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Terrorists planned to concoct an "explosive cocktail" using MP3 players and sports drinks to blow up as many as 10 jetliners bound for the United States, authorities said Thursday.
U.S. intelligence officials said the plotters hoped to stage a dry run by Friday, The Associated Press reported. The actual attack would have followed days later, the officials told AP.
A senior congressional source said it is believed the plotters planned to mix a British sports drink with a gel-like substance to make an explosive that they would possibly trigger with an MP3 player or cell phone.
The sports drink could be combined with a peroxide-based paste to form a potent "explosive cocktail," if properly done, said a U.S. counterterrorism official.
"There are strong reasons to believe the materials in a beverage like that could have been part of the formula," the official said.
British and Pakistani authorities joined forces to block the plot to bomb the airliners, officials said.
British police acted urgently overnight, arresting 24 people in what U.S. government officials said privately could have been the biggest terrorist attack since September 11, 2001.
Among those arrested were a Muslim charity worker and a Heathrow Airport employee with an all-area access pass, according to Britain's Channel 4.
Five suspects in the plot are still at large, ABC News reported on its Web site, citing U.S. sources.
Information gathered after recent arrests in Pakistan convinced British investigators they had to act urgently to stop the plot, sources told CNN.
Pakistani authorities also made arrests in coordination with Britain, said a spokesman for the Pakistani Foreign Ministry. He did not say how many arrests were made.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said the plans were "suggestive of an al Qaeda plot," and President Bush said the arrests are a "stark reminder" that the U.S. is "at war with Islamic fascists." (Watch Bush say what the arrests mean for the U.S. -- 2:37)
Bush thanked British Prime Minister Tony Blair for "busting this plot." (Full story)
Authorities immediately banned all passengers headed to or departing from U.S. airports from carrying any liquid in their carry-ons. The massive lines that resulted at security checkpoints made chaos of air travel worldwide as flights were delayed or canceled. (Full story)
The effects of the plot rippled across the globe Thursday.
The plot was "intended to be mass murder on an unimaginable scale," London's Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Paul Stephenson said. (Full story)
Chertoff said the plan was reminiscent of a plot by September 11 coordinator Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, who in 1995 had envisioned detonating bombs on 11 airlines possibly traveling over the Pacific Ocean.
The plot was "as sophisticated as any we have seen in recent years as far as terrorism is concerned," Chertoff said. (Watch Chertoff detail the threat to blow up jetliners -- 7:38)
CNN terror analyst Peter Bergen said two factors pointed to the influence of al Qaeda. He said al Qaeda was "obsessed" with commercial aviation and that the timing of the plot was "very interesting."
"It's not clear when this was going to be implemented ... but we are coming up on the fifth anniversary of 9/11. They do want to make a big statement," he said on CNN's "American Morning."
The U.S. threat level has been raised to the highest level of "severe," or red, for commercial flights originating in the United Kingdom bound for the United States, according to the Department of Homeland Security. (Full story)
In addition, the threat level has been raised to "high," or orange for all commercial flights operating in or coming to the United States, the DHS said.
The nation's overall terror threat level has not been altered.
Thursday was the first time the DHS has raised the threat level for a specific group of flights.
New security restrictions
"Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, we are prohibiting any liquids, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane," a DHS statement said.
Increased security means airline passengers around the country should show up at least two hours early for all flights, an official with the Transportation Security Administration told CNN.
Plane plot involved 'explosive cocktail,' official says
Air travel in chaos after plot to bomb airliners exposed
Thursday, August 10, 2006; Posted: 4:24 p.m. EDT (20:24 GMT)
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- Terrorists planned to concoct an "explosive cocktail" using MP3 players and sports drinks to blow up as many as 10 jetliners bound for the United States, authorities said Thursday.
U.S. intelligence officials said the plotters hoped to stage a dry run by Friday, The Associated Press reported. The actual attack would have followed days later, the officials told AP.
A senior congressional source said it is believed the plotters planned to mix a British sports drink with a gel-like substance to make an explosive that they would possibly trigger with an MP3 player or cell phone.
The sports drink could be combined with a peroxide-based paste to form a potent "explosive cocktail," if properly done, said a U.S. counterterrorism official.
"There are strong reasons to believe the materials in a beverage like that could have been part of the formula," the official said.
British and Pakistani authorities joined forces to block the plot to bomb the airliners, officials said.
British police acted urgently overnight, arresting 24 people in what U.S. government officials said privately could have been the biggest terrorist attack since September 11, 2001.
Among those arrested were a Muslim charity worker and a Heathrow Airport employee with an all-area access pass, according to Britain's Channel 4.
Five suspects in the plot are still at large, ABC News reported on its Web site, citing U.S. sources.
Information gathered after recent arrests in Pakistan convinced British investigators they had to act urgently to stop the plot, sources told CNN.
Pakistani authorities also made arrests in coordination with Britain, said a spokesman for the Pakistani Foreign Ministry. He did not say how many arrests were made.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said the plans were "suggestive of an al Qaeda plot," and President Bush said the arrests are a "stark reminder" that the U.S. is "at war with Islamic fascists." (Watch Bush say what the arrests mean for the U.S. -- 2:37)
Bush thanked British Prime Minister Tony Blair for "busting this plot." (Full story)
Authorities immediately banned all passengers headed to or departing from U.S. airports from carrying any liquid in their carry-ons. The massive lines that resulted at security checkpoints made chaos of air travel worldwide as flights were delayed or canceled. (Full story)
The effects of the plot rippled across the globe Thursday.
The plot was "intended to be mass murder on an unimaginable scale," London's Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner Paul Stephenson said. (Full story)
Chertoff said the plan was reminiscent of a plot by September 11 coordinator Khalid Shaikh Mohammed, who in 1995 had envisioned detonating bombs on 11 airlines possibly traveling over the Pacific Ocean.
The plot was "as sophisticated as any we have seen in recent years as far as terrorism is concerned," Chertoff said. (Watch Chertoff detail the threat to blow up jetliners -- 7:38)
CNN terror analyst Peter Bergen said two factors pointed to the influence of al Qaeda. He said al Qaeda was "obsessed" with commercial aviation and that the timing of the plot was "very interesting."
"It's not clear when this was going to be implemented ... but we are coming up on the fifth anniversary of 9/11. They do want to make a big statement," he said on CNN's "American Morning."
The U.S. threat level has been raised to the highest level of "severe," or red, for commercial flights originating in the United Kingdom bound for the United States, according to the Department of Homeland Security. (Full story)
In addition, the threat level has been raised to "high," or orange for all commercial flights operating in or coming to the United States, the DHS said.
The nation's overall terror threat level has not been altered.
Thursday was the first time the DHS has raised the threat level for a specific group of flights.
New security restrictions
"Due to the nature of the threat revealed by this investigation, we are prohibiting any liquids, including beverages, hair gels, and lotions from being carried on the airplane," a DHS statement said.
Increased security means airline passengers around the country should show up at least two hours early for all flights, an official with the Transportation Security Administration told CNN.
Manny Lawson & Vernon Davis Duel In 49ers Training Camp - SF Chroncle
Lawson and Davis
49ERS NOTEBOOK
Davis-Lawson rivalry is user-friendly
Kevin Lynch, Chronicle Staff Writer
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Linebacker Manny Lawson and tight end Vernon Davis will welcome the opportunity to go against somebody else Friday night when the Bears come to town for the 49ers' first exhibition game. So far, the two have done a fairly good job of beating up on each other in training camp.
The 49ers' two first-round picks have dueled both when Davis goes out for passes and when Lawson is rushing the quarterback.
"We've got a little friendly competition going," Davis said.
The competition nearly turned calamitous early in camp. During a scrimmage, quarterback Alex Smith rolled out while Davis tried to block the onrushing Lawson. Lawson was just about to slip the block when Davis dived at the 6-foot-5, 240-pounder. Both players tumbled to the ground and then rolled into a bank of players watching.
Coaches constantly instruct players to stay on their feet during practice, and cutting your teammate is strictly forbidden. Davis let his competitive instincts overpower him.
When each was asked separately about the incident, neither commented but both laughed.
"He's just making me better," said Lawson, who thinks he probably won't face another tight end with Davis' physical gifts. "You fast? Vernon's fast. You strong? Vernon's strong. I've got that right here in San Francisco."
Coach Mike Nolan considered easing Lawson's learning curve in converting him from college defensive end to NFL linebacker, as he'd had to do with former Arizona State player Terrell Suggs in Baltimore. Now Nolan and 49ers defensive coordinator Billy Davis believe Lawson can handle the position mentally.
"If you set me down and told me a play, I could tell you what I have to do," Lawson said. "Now it's just doing what I know and trusting what my eyes see."
Torrey out: An MRI exam of linebacker Andre Torrey's left knee revealed a torn anterior cruciate ligament. The 49ers probably will put the Alameda High School grad on injured reserve, which means he won't play this year.
Torrey went down after getting tangled up with defensive end Scott Scharff while covering a kickoff Tuesday on the 49ers' new synthetic turf.
The 49ers signed rookie free-agent linebacker Bobby Iwuchukwu to replace Torrey on the roster.
Jerramy Stevens - Seahawks' Jerramy Stevens Ready For 2006 After Super Bowl Loss - Seattle PI
Seahawks' Stevens ready to move on
TE recovering from injury, Super malaise
By CLARE FARNSWORTH
P-I REPORTER
CHENEY -- Jerramy Stevens' bothersome left knee passed every physical test necessary to get the explosive tight end back on the football field Wednesday for the first time since the Super Bowl in February.
It's his mental well-being from an implosive performance in the Seahawks' loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers that has coach Mike Holmgren concerned even after Stevens took his next step back from arthroscopic surgery in April.
"We did have a pretty in-depth discussion about how you bounce back from something, and he's listening," Holmgren said. "The disappointment lingers certainly, particularly with a player that cares, and he cares. He was very disappointed and he felt bad.
"And that's a good thing."
So is getting Stevens back in pads, which will allow him to continue putting the game against the Steelers behind him. He will not play in Saturday night's preseason opener against the Dallas Cowboys at Qwest Field, but is scheduled to see his first action Aug. 20 against the Colts in Indianapolis.
"You've got to mature and grow from that and keep pushing forward," Stevens said after practice. "Obviously it was rough. But it's something that's behind me now and I'm using that as a shield to go forward."
As they look to defend their NFC championship, the Seahawks need Stevens to be the player who caught 45 passes last season, the second-highest total by a tight end in franchise history, not the one who had more passes go off or through his hands (five) than receptions (three) in the Super Bowl.
The tight end has traditionally played a large role in Holmgren's hybrid of the West Coast offense, and Stevens has the size (6-foot-7, 260 pounds), speed and soft hands to excel like Brent Jones when Holmgren was the San Francisco 49ers' offensive coordinator; and Jackie Harris, Mark Chmura and Keith Jackson during Holmgren's tenure as head coach of the Green Bay Packers.
Stevens damaged the meniscus in his knee during the Seahawks' first playoff victory over the Washington Redskins. It was originally diagnosed as floating particles, Stevens said, and "something that I was just going to work through." But as the discomfort increased, an MRI detected the meniscus damage and he had it repaired.
"The trainers and doctors say he's good to go," Holmgren said. "He's worried up here, in his mind: How's it going to feel? So we've got to get over that hump."
Wednesday was a needed step. Stevens did not participate in the full-team portions of practice, but he looked quick and smooth while running routes and catching the ball in individual drills.
"It's all about strength in my leg and confidence," Stevens said. "It felt good today. It was good to stop while I was ahead. That's the plan, to stop while I'm feeling good every day and try and progress a little bit every day."
The mental anguish from the Super Bowl also should subside as Stevens moves closer to the 2006 season.
"If you're playing this sport, most every play you get hit right in the mouth. How do you handle that?" Holmgren said. "You've got to get back up, and that was on a bigger stage. So I would expect him to bounce back. If a player can't bounce back from things like that, then they don't last very long."
It didn't help that Stevens became an unwitting participant in what turned into a woofing match with Steelers linebacker Joey Porter during the week leading up the Super Bowl.
"I don't feel like I said something that was inappropriate or out of place," Stevens said. "I supported my team and told (reporters) that we were here to win, and I stick by that now."
Stevens would just as soon put it all behind him -- the Super Bowl and the injury.
"I plan on moving forward and doing better and bigger things this year, just use that as a stepping stone," he said. "I've taken one step. I've got to continue to take steps forward."
P-I reporter Clare Farnsworth can be reached at 206-448-8016 or clarefarnsworth@seattlepi.com.
Chris Chambers - Chris Chambers Picked To Improve With Daunte Culpepper - Miami Herald
CHRIS CHAMBERS
Pressure thrown at Chambers
With the offseason acquisition of Daunte Culpepper, receiver Chris Chambers will have greater expectations placed on him for the 2006 season.
BY DAVID J. NEAL
dneal@MiamiHerald.com
Dolphins wide receiver Chris Chambers knows what is expected of him after a career season: more.
More catches, more yards, more spectacular plays, more big plays that aren't so spectacular but lead to more victories. More leadership, especially with rookie Derek Hagan.
Like the Dolphins, Chambers' 2005 success earned him the right to be judged against a higher standard. That would be the case even if the Dolphins had not traded for quarterback Daunte Culpepper in the offseason.
''I don't really feel the pressure,'' Chambers said. ``I know it's my responsibility to be more of a leader and step my game up even more to help the team win. I know I have guys around me that can make plays as well. So it's really not a pressure-type deal for me.''
Or maybe it's that Chambers has dealt with expectations since the start of his career. Last season wasn't much different.
Everything seemed set for a big season from Chambers. The Dolphins brought in Scott Linehan as offensive coordinator from the Minnesota Vikings, where Linehan choreographed a dazzling offense starring Culpepper and Randy Moss. Quarterback Jay Fiedler was replaced by Gus Frerotte.
The Dolphins voted Chambers an offensive captain, acknowledging him as a team leader but also making an unspoken request for greater production.
Few who have spent time around the reserved Chambers would expect him to transform into an emotional, vocal leader. His brand of leadership would have to come through performance.
And it did, after eight games in which he sometimes struggled. In the second half of the season, Chambers had 52 catches for 701 yards and eight touchdowns. Subtract the 15-catch, 238-yard game against Buffalo that made him the first Dolphins wide receiver since 1994 to be named AFC Offensive Player of the Week, and still there is a respectable 37 catches for 463 yards and seven TDs in seven games.
''Reading defenses is one of the things I got better at,'' Chambers said. ``As I get better at that, it makes it a lot easier for me to go out there and run routes. Different ball drills that I wasn't doing early in the year, I'm starting to do them now early in training camp so that I can continue doing that throughout the whole year.''
Dolphins coach Nick Saban said he believed Chambers' confidence grew during last season.
''[He] made more big plays with fewer drops,'' Saban said. ``Played faster with a better understanding and knowledge of what he needed to do to get open or execute that particular play. That's no disrespect to what he did in the beginning of the year, but I just think he got better and better as the year went on.''
And his expectations for this season?
''I think, if he plays with the consistency that he finished the year with last year for an entire season . . .'' Saban said, his voice trailing off before finishing, `` he had a fantastic year last year, but he would have an absolutely fantastic year.''
Daunte Culpepper - Daunte Culpepper's Knee Better, Will Play Saturday
Adam Scheafter of the NFL Network asked the right question: how will he do in the Dolphins offense?
Culpepper will play in Dolphins' preseason opener
BY DAVID J. NEAL
dneal@MiamiHerald.com
JOE RIMKUS JR. / MIAMI HERALD STAFF
Dolphins quarterback Daunte Culpepper will play in Saturday's preseason game against Jacksonville at Dolphin Stadium.
In his opening statement to the media after this morning's practice, Dolphins coach Nick Saban said, ``As of right now, you can expect all the quarterbacks to play some.''
Saban declined to say how much each quarterback would play.
Culpepper has not played since shredding knee ligaments when tackled during an Oct. 30 game against Carolina.
Maurice Clarett is a Tragedy
Maurice Clarett Arrested
by Walter Anaruk
Field Position
The situation surrounding former Denver Broncos and Ohio State RB Maurice Clarett is a mystery. Clarett led police in Columbus, Ohio on a chase that ended in a restaurant parking lot. Four loaded guns, including an assault rifle, and half a bottle of vodka were found in the front of the vehicle Clarett was driving. A sobriety test was not administered because officers had no indication that Clarett was intoxicated.
Police attempted pull Clarett over for an illegal U-turn. Clarett did not pull over and led police onto eastbound Interstate 70. He then accelerated across the median and turned westbound where he drove over a spike strip placed by police.
When Clarett came to a stop, police stated that he refused orders to get out of the vehicle. According to police reports, Clarett struggled against police when they attempted to remove him from the vehicle. Tasers were ineffective because Clarett was wearing a bullet-resistant vest. So police used mace to subdue Clarett who continued to fight officers until he was handcuffed in the paddy wagon.
ESPN the Magazine's Tom Friend reportedly was called by Clarett just hours before his arrest. Friend describes Clarett's disposition as melancholy and stated in an ESPN news segment that it almost felt as if Clarett were saying his good byes. Friend said that Clarett called him to thank him for making Clarett "see reality." Friend had Friend also said that Clarett claimed to be calling others such as his college coach Jim Tressell and childhood friend LeBron James. Several times during his appearance on ESPN, Friend alluded to the possibility that Clarett was either suicidal or felt his life was in danger.
Besides the well publicized football follies and the recent charges of assault and armed robbery, Clarett had a life frought with problems. After he left Ohio State and was denied entry into the NFL Draft, Clarett accepted the sponsorship of several managers in the rap music industry. He lived in a plush home on Malibu beach and trained in celebrity health spas, and drove around in expensive automobiles. His benefactors believed that Clarett would be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft and would repay them when he earned his millions.
In 2005, Clarett entered the draft. But he was not in good shape. He had shunned the assistance of professional trainers preferring the celebrity lifestyle he had grown accustomed to. Additionally his massive insecurities and paranoia made him afraid to work out where people might recognize and judge him. His lack of training resulted in a slow 40 yard dash. His slow time combined with his obvious lack of conditioning made his selection by the Denver Broncos in the third round, a tremendous suprise.
Instead of taking the guarateed $416,000 signing bonus and minimum contract that his agents pleaded with him to sign, Clarett opted for no guaranteed money. He wanted an incentive laden contract that would pay him millions for 1000 plus yard seasons, he wanted bonuses for making the Pro Bowl. The Broncos were only too happy to sign. And when he spent the first three weeks of training camp nursing a sore leg, the Broncos cut him with no financial reprocussions. Clarett never even appeared in an NFL preseason game. He had no money because he had removed all of his guarantees. He owed a lot of people a lot of money.
What was he doing with three loaded hand guns, a loaded assault rifle, wearing a bulletproof vest that early morning? No one knows. He had just recently become a father and told Friend in their midnight phone call that he would do anything for his baby daughter - even spend 30 years in jail. Friend thought it was an odd example at the time. Obviously Clarett felt his life and the life of his daughter might be threatened. Could be his paranoia. It could be that he owed a lot of money to some of the wrong people. The story will unfold as days go on. But not since University of Maryland basketball star Len Bias died in 1986 or possibly the story of boxer Mike Tyson in the late 90s has such a tragic tale of fallen grace been witnessed.
NY Jets Curtis Martin May Have To Retire Due To Knees - Newsday
Curtis' knee in bad shape
12-year veteran has 'virtually no cartilage' and walking with limp
BY KEN BERGER
Newsday Staff Writer
August 9, 2006
Curtis Martin has a "bone-on-bone" condition in his surgically repaired right knee, a setback that has the Jets' coaching staff privately wondering if the future Hall of Famer will be able to suit up for the start of his 12th season.
"The guy is bone-on-bone on the knee and can't play," a person with knowledge of Martin's injury said yesterday, speaking on condition of anonymity. "No one has said he's not going to play, but I don't know how much more they're going to get out of the guy."
The person confirmed earlier reports that Martin has virtually no cartilage in his right knee, which was repaired arthroscopically in December.
Coach Eric Mangini said yesterday that Martin's status hasn't changed and that he's at the complex every day for rehab, all of which is done out of the media's view. Martin is attending all team meetings and functions, Mangini said.
But when asked about Martin's recovery and demeanor, several players said they haven't seen Martin much at all. "I've been going from the meetings to eating and back to meetings," Chad Pennington said. "Our schedule has been so full."
Martin was seen walking with a distinct limp Sunday at Giants Stadium, where the Jets held an intrasquad scrimmage. It was quite a contrast to the last time reporters saw Martin for any extended period, at the June minicamp, when he ran and did individual drills.
It is not known if Martin has had further surgery on the knee. Mangini declines to address the specifics of injuries, and a high-ranking team official with knowledge of Martin's condition declined comment yesterday on whether he had to have another scope.
"We know what Curtis means to us as an organization, especially to me as a person with all the things I've gone through these last three years," Pennington said. "He's been a solid rock for me to lean upon and we just can't wait to see him out here."
Martin has not been available for comment since July 29, when he said the situation hasn't forced him to think about how much longer he can play. "My fire will burn until the day that I'm done with football," Martin said.
The Jets continue to explore the running backs market. The latest names added to the list are the Cardinals' Marcel Shipp and the Chargers' Michael Turner, who worked with Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer the past two years.
Martin, the NFL's No. 4 career rusher and the Jets' most accomplished player since Joe Namath, has slipped into the past tense in the minds of some teammates.
"He was a mainstay, he was a guy you could look to to be a professional," linebacker Jonathan Vilma said. "That's what he still is. He's a bona fide professional and always did the job right. It's different right now in training camp not having him around."
Notes & quotes: Mangini refused to confirm that S Erik Coleman had his appendix removed ... WR Justin McCareins, already in Mangini's doghouse, had two drops ... WR Dequawn Mobley, an undrafted rookie from the Bronx, was waived.
12-year veteran has 'virtually no cartilage' and walking with limp
BY KEN BERGER
Newsday Staff Writer
August 9, 2006
Curtis Martin has a "bone-on-bone" condition in his surgically repaired right knee, a setback that has the Jets' coaching staff privately wondering if the future Hall of Famer will be able to suit up for the start of his 12th season.
"The guy is bone-on-bone on the knee and can't play," a person with knowledge of Martin's injury said yesterday, speaking on condition of anonymity. "No one has said he's not going to play, but I don't know how much more they're going to get out of the guy."
The person confirmed earlier reports that Martin has virtually no cartilage in his right knee, which was repaired arthroscopically in December.
Coach Eric Mangini said yesterday that Martin's status hasn't changed and that he's at the complex every day for rehab, all of which is done out of the media's view. Martin is attending all team meetings and functions, Mangini said.
But when asked about Martin's recovery and demeanor, several players said they haven't seen Martin much at all. "I've been going from the meetings to eating and back to meetings," Chad Pennington said. "Our schedule has been so full."
Martin was seen walking with a distinct limp Sunday at Giants Stadium, where the Jets held an intrasquad scrimmage. It was quite a contrast to the last time reporters saw Martin for any extended period, at the June minicamp, when he ran and did individual drills.
It is not known if Martin has had further surgery on the knee. Mangini declines to address the specifics of injuries, and a high-ranking team official with knowledge of Martin's condition declined comment yesterday on whether he had to have another scope.
"We know what Curtis means to us as an organization, especially to me as a person with all the things I've gone through these last three years," Pennington said. "He's been a solid rock for me to lean upon and we just can't wait to see him out here."
Martin has not been available for comment since July 29, when he said the situation hasn't forced him to think about how much longer he can play. "My fire will burn until the day that I'm done with football," Martin said.
The Jets continue to explore the running backs market. The latest names added to the list are the Cardinals' Marcel Shipp and the Chargers' Michael Turner, who worked with Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer the past two years.
Martin, the NFL's No. 4 career rusher and the Jets' most accomplished player since Joe Namath, has slipped into the past tense in the minds of some teammates.
"He was a mainstay, he was a guy you could look to to be a professional," linebacker Jonathan Vilma said. "That's what he still is. He's a bona fide professional and always did the job right. It's different right now in training camp not having him around."
Notes & quotes: Mangini refused to confirm that S Erik Coleman had his appendix removed ... WR Justin McCareins, already in Mangini's doghouse, had two drops ... WR Dequawn Mobley, an undrafted rookie from the Bronx, was waived.
ROGER GOODELL PRESS CONFERENCE TRANSCRIPT - NFL
August 8, 2006 - http://www.nflmedia.com and ASAPSports
NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE
An Interview With:
ROGER GOODELL
ROGER GOODELL: I certainly want to thank the ownership for their confidence. I committed over the last several months that I would do my best to help promote the National Football League. I told them that we've had the two greatest sports commissioners in the history of all sports with Paul Tagliabue and Pete Rozelle; I've been fortunate to work for both of them. I can't think them enough for the opportunities they have both given to me.
And I'm thrilled by this challenge. I'm excited. It hasn't hit me yet how big a job it's going to be, I'm sure, but I look forward to the challenge and thank them again for their confidence in my abilities.
So thank you very much. I look forward, and if you've got some questions, I'd be happy to take them.
Q. This goes back to Paul. The first thing Paul said when he was elected commissioner was somebody asked him why he wanted the job and he said because it would be fun. You've worked in the league almost your entire career. Do you think it's going to be fun?
ROGER GOODELL: I wouldn't say that. The Commissioner said that.
No, I think it's a great challenge. I must tell you, I'm very fortunate, and I know that. I've spent my life following my passion, what I always loved to do. And I know that from my standpoint, I can't think of a greater job and a greater league to be associated with, so I'm thrilled.
Q. How did you get the news that you had been selected as the next commissioner?
ROGER GOODELL: The gentleman here to my right came upstairs when I was sitting upstairs. I was not watching the NFL Network. I was doing some work trying to be distracted, and Mr. Rooney came up and knocked on the door and told me. Thankfully I just put my pants on. (Laughter).
Q. Was it a nerve-wracking process, just the wait?
ROGER GOODELL: You mean this afternoon or the entire process?
Q. Both.
ROGER GOODELL: Yes, both were as a matter of fact. It was a very good process. In fact, I've said to people over the past several days, that I think the process has been very good for me personally and very good for the National Football League. It was open. I think there were some very strong candidates put forth. As I said, I'm honored they selected me.
It helped me reflect a little bit on what I've done, what I think I can do for the league in the future, and it was very helpful in preparing me for this opportunity.
Q. What do you think the biggest issue facing you is, Roger?
ROGER GOODELL: It's pretty tough to focus on one issue. I think the league is fortunate to have great success. It's also got a great foundation on which to build.
But I think we've got a lot of challenges to face, and the good news is I think we'll face them together with 32 owners that are focused and prepared, because I think the process allowed us to talk about a lot of those issues and what we need to do together to address those.
Q. When does it sound like you are officially taking office?
ROGER GOODELL: That's a good question, Adam. The Commissioner and I have not discussed it other than very briefly downstairs. We will agree to that sometime over the next several days, but I would assume before the regular season starts.
Q. Paul had some pretty big shoes to fill when he started, and now you succeed a very successful commissioner. How daunting is that challenge to you?
ROGER GOODELL: As I said, I think I've had the good fortune of working for the two greatest sports commissioners, and I know how big those shoes are, both literally and figuratively.
He is a gold standard for me. I will do my best, and I'll work hard at it, but I know they are big shoes.
Q. What do you think is the one thing that you learned from Pete that you can take into this job and the one thing that you learned from Paul that you can take into the job?
ROGER GOODELL: I think it's the same with both of them, Gary. It's the importance of the game. The game of football is the most important thing, and we can't lose focus of that. That's why the fans love the NFL, and we have to keep producing that and giving them that.
Q. Because of the way the process played out, because you knew what the process would be, and the questions, what you might be asked, did it allow you over the last month or so to be not only introspective, but also forward-thinking to maybe crystallize and galvanize some of your own thoughts on how you might operate if you got this job?
ROGER GOODELL: It absolutely does. It forces you to go through that process, and I spent an awful lot of time thinking about it. And I think that this process required you to tell the ownership how you saw the future, what you thought the National Football League should be doing to prepare for that future.
Obviously I must have told a pretty good story along the way, because they have given me the opportunity. So I'm grateful for that, and we'll carry out what we talked about over last several days.
Q. Sorry to ask a homer question, but what happens next in southern California?
ROGER GOODELL: Alan, I just got the job ten minutes ago, and you just -- (Laughter).
Q. I'll going to be asked by my editor, so I might as well ask you.
ROGER GOODELL: I know that that's one of the things the ownership wants to focus on, but we haven't given much thought to it the last couple days.
Q. Can you build a bridge between large market owners and the small market owners?
ROGER GOODELL: I think the ownership has gotten a lot more incumbent than you think. I think they certainly have differences of opinions on certain things, but they I think always do what's in the best interests of the game. I think they will continue to do that.
So I believe that those issues, while they need to get addressed, will get addressed properly and quickly.
Q. What are some things you did talk to the owners about as far as your vision of the future?
ROGER GOODELL: Well, I had a number of things that we talked about and that I focused on. They really came under three simple headings: The game, strengthen our 32 teams and innovation. And I think those are the things that made the NFL great in the past, and I think they will help us keep our focus and make the game great going forward.
Q. What do you mean by innovation, media, international?
ROGER GOODELL: I think we've been very innovative with our media packages, as one example. But I think the league has always tried to find a better way of doing things and be responsive before we need to. And I think that has been a hallmark of our leadership under both Commissioner Rozelle and Commissioner Tagliabue, and I certainly hope to carry that on.
The NFL HoF Class of 2006
Reggie White's wife, Harry Carson, Troy Aikman, John Madden, Warren Moon, Rayfield Wright.
A photo for the ages.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Warren Sapp On NFL Network
NFL Network's Terrell Davis (former Broncos star running back) interviews -- or is it cuts up with -- Oakland Raiders Defensive Tackle Warren Sapp.
Warren Sapp talks about the Oakland Raiders under new head coach Art Shell and the Raiders' top draft pick, Michael Huff.
Warren Sapp talks about the Oakland Raiders under new head coach Art Shell and the Raiders' top draft pick, Michael Huff.
NFL Network Live - Sprint / Samsung Phone Commercial
I met a Sprint rep at the NFL Draft who asked if I would help the company promote its new Sprint / Samsung NFL Network Phone. You can pick up NFL Network telecasts live. So I tried it and I've got to admit it's a really cool phone. It really does show live NFL Network telecasts, like this one of the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XI.
This video was originally shared on blip.tv by zennie2005 with a Creative Commons Attribution license.
Cool Phone - Sprint / Samsung NFL Network Phone Commercial
I met a Sprint rep at the NFL Draft who asked if I would help the company promote its new Sprint / Samsung NFL Network Phone. You can pick up NFL Network telecasts live. So I tried it and I've got to admit it's a really cool phone. It does show live NFL N
This video was originally shared on blip.tv by zennie2005 with a Creative Commons Attribution license.
Maurice Clarett Suffers Meltdown - Arrested With An SUV Full Of Weapons - AP News
When I read the following story, my first thought was just how much agony Maurice Clarett's Mom must be going through to see her only child go through a very public collapse of character. What some who try out for the NFL forget is that -- if they get a good education and show that they're good people, and maintain relationships -- they could wind up with an NFL front office job. But all that's too late for Maurice -- unless he cleans up and right now. He needs to go back to school.
Police use Mace on Clarett, arrest him after chase
Associated Press
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Maurice Clarett was charged with carrying a concealed weapon after a highway chase early Wednesday that ended with police using Mace on the former Ohio State running back and finding four loaded guns in his sport utility vehicle, police said.
Officers used Mace to subdue Clarett after a stun gun was ineffective because the former Fiesta Bowl star was wearing a bullet-resistant vest, Sgt. Michael Woods said.
"It took several officers to get him handcuffed," Woods said. "Even after he was placed in the paddy wagon, he was still kicking at the doors and being a problem for the officers."
The complaint police filed when they charged him with carrying a concealed weapon without permit said he had a 9 mm handgun under his legs in the driver's seat of an SUV.
Police also charged him with failing to maintain a continuous lane, which they said was for Clarett making a U-turn on the freeway. More charges are possible, Woods said.
Clarett did not speak to police who tried to interview him at the station before he was moved to the Franklin County Jail.
Wearing tan jail-issue clothes, he talked on the telephone in the booking area, separated from reporters by a window. He was to be held at the jail at least until an arraignment Thursday morning, unless his attorneys work out an agreement for his release, police said.
Clarett made an illegal U-turn on the city's east side and failed to stop when officers, in a cruiser with lights flashing, tried to pull him over, Woods said.
Police said they pursued Clarett onto the eastbound lanes of Interstate 70, one of the city's main freeways, when he darted across the median and began heading west. Clarett drove over a spike strip that was placed on the highway, flattening the driver's side tires of the SUV, Woods said. A police helicopter in the area helped track the vehicle.
Clarett exited the highway and pulled into a restaurant parking lot about 10 minutes after police say they saw him make the U-turn. Officers removed him from the SUV after he failed to obey numerous orders to exit the vehicle, Woods said.
After Clarett was placed in a police van, officers discovered a loaded rifle and three loaded handguns in the front of his vehicle, Woods said.
"We don't have any idea why he had them or what, if anything, he was going to do with them," Woods said. Police don't know where Clarett got the guns or where he was headed or coming from in the SUV. Federal authorities plan to trace the guns' ownership.
Clarett
A half-full bottle of vodka was found in the SUV, but no breath test was administered because police had no indication that Clarett was intoxicated, Woods said.
The 22-year-old Clarett is currently awaiting trial on two counts of aggravated robbery, four counts of robbery and one count of carrying a concealed weapon in a separate case. Authorities said he was identified by witnesses as the person who flashed a gun and robbed two people of a cell phone in an alley behind the Opium Lounge in Columbus in the early hours of Jan. 1.
One of Clarett's attorneys in that case, Nick Mango, said he was going to the jail to see Clarett to "make sure he's OK emotionally and mentally." Clarett has not asked Mango to represent him on the new charges.
"I'm shocked as everyone else is about the allegation," Mango said. "Obviously, he's a young man with a lot of weight on his shoulders."
The home address Clarett gave police was his mother's house in Youngstown. A message seeking comment was left at the home.
Clarett scored the winning touchdown in the second overtime of the Fiesta Bowl against Miami to lead Ohio State to the 2002 national championship, the school's first since 1968. But that was the last game the freshman played for Ohio State.
He sat out the 2003 season after being charged with misdemeanor falsification on a police report, then dropped out of school. He sued to be included in the 2004 NFL draft and lost in court.
A surprise third-round pick in the 2005 draft, he was cut by the Denver Broncos during the preseason.
Clarett plans to play for the Mahoning Valley Hitmen, one of five teams in the Eastern Indoor Football League. The team, based in Clarett's hometown of Youngstown, is to begin play in January.
Hitmen coach and owner Jim Terry said that there was no indication that anything was wrong when he spoke with Clarett by cell phone early Wednesday morning about the team's upcoming tryouts. The call was disconnected around 1 a.m. and Terry missed Clarett's second call about an hour and a half later, which would have been near the time when police say they saw Clarett make a U-turn.
The arrest will not affect Clarett's status with the team, Terry said.
"We gave him a chance and now we'll wait to see what happens," he said. "I've seen far worse situations than this."
Clarett has not signed a contract with the team yet, pending a fire marshal's inspection of the team's home field. Clarett's proposed contract includes attendance incentives which cannot be finalized until the fire marshal determines the capacity of the team's arena.
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