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Thanksgiving Illness Could Sideline Adrian Peterson Vs. Bears

2009-11-28T18:05:30Z

by Andy King - AP

The status of Vikings' superstar Adrian Peterson is suddenly in doubt for Sunday's game against the Bears.

The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that Peterson has come down with some sort of Thanksgiving illness:

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson is questionable for the game Sunday with the Bears after missing practice Friday with an illness.

Peterson was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, listed with an ankle injury, and apparently got sick following Thanksgiving.

If Peterson cannot go, Chester Taylor will get the start. Taylor scored touchdowns in both games against Chicago last season.

For more on the Vikings, head on over to Daily Norseman.

Lions TE Brandon Pettigrew Out For Season With Knee Injury

2009-11-27T21:29:45Z

by Paul Sancya - AP

3 months ago: Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew (84) is brought down by Indianapolis Colts safety Melvin Bullitt after a 13-yard reception during the second quarter of an exhibition NFL football game, Saturday, Aug. 29, 2009 in Detroit. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

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According to MLive.com, Lions rookie tight end Brandon Pettigrew will miss the remainder of the season after suffering an undisclosed injury to his left knee during the team's Thanksgiving day loss to the Packers. Pettigrew will undergo surgery on his injured knee -- which head coach Jim Schwartz said he does not believe is a torn ACL.

Pettigrew was the Lion's second first-round choice this year out of Oklahoma State. He hauled in 30 passes for 346 yards and two touchdowns -- with the last one being the game-winner for the Lions in their thrilling comeback win over the Browns.

Denver's D Reigns Supreme As Broncos Top Giants In Thanksgiving Finale

2009-11-27T01:23:07Z

by David Zalubowski - AP

2 days ago: New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, bottom, is sacked by Denver Broncos linebacker Wesley Woodyard during the second quarter of an NFL football game in Denver, Thursday, Nov. 26, 2009. (AP Photo/ David Zalubowski)

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Denver, CO (Sports Network) - Kyle Orton threw for 245 yards and a touchdown on a bad ankle and the Broncos defense held the Giants in check, forcing three turnovers as Denver dominated New York in a 26-6 victory to snap a four-game slide.

Knowshon Moreno rushed for 88 yards and a score on 19 carries while Brandon Marshall made a couple nice grabs and ended with six receptions for 86 yards.

Brandon Stokley's lone catch went for a 17-yard touchdown for Denver (7-4), which started the season 6-0 but had since been in a swoon that saw the Broncos relinquish first place in the AFC West to San Diego.

"Today really had nothing to do with the streak for us. We were pleased with the way that we came out and prepared this week. Our team had a great attitude. It always feels better to win," said Broncos coach Josh McDaniels.

Eli Manning was 24-of-40 for 230 yards and an interception and Steve Smith caught seven passes for 71 yards. The Giants offense produced only 181 yards of offense before an 86-yard drive inside the final two minutes.

Danny Ware, filling in for an injured Ahmad Bradshaw, and Brandon Jacobs led the ground game with 27 yards each for New York (6-5), which has lost five of its last six games since beginning the season 5-0.

"We played poorly tonight. There is no excuse for it. There's no (excuse with the) short week, none of that stuff," remarked a frustrated Giants coach Tom Coughlin. "We knew what was all at stake. It's very disappointing to me to stand here in front of you to talk about this game because I really felt that we didn't play well."

The Broncos rumbled out to a 16-0 lead at halftime as the Giants failed to even cross into opposing territory through the opening 30 minutes.

Denver marched 76 yards in 13 plays on its second drive of the game and Matt Prater kicked a 26-yard field goal after a 1st-and-goal from the New York seven-yard line netted a loss of one yard.

The hosts began their next scoring foray late in the first and Prater connected from 32 yards out a little more than four minutes into the second to cap another lengthy 12-play drive.

A short field provided Denver with its first touchdown following Ware's lost fumble on New York's next series. The Broncos recovered at the Giants' 38 and needed four plays to find the end zone on Moreno's one-yard score. A deep ball up the left sideline for Marshall gained 28 yards on first down as the combative wideout made a one-handed leaping grab in front of Giants cornerback Corey Webster.

A Giants three-and-out sent the Broncos back on the attack and Prater booted a 47-yarder 3 1/2 minutes before the break for a 16-0 margin.

"We executed pretty well all night and played with a lot of energy on offense, which was great. The defense got us some turnovers (and) got us some great field position, and we took advantage of it," Orton said.

On Denver's opening drive of the second half Marshall made another nice grab, tipping the ball with one hand to himself up the left sideline for a 33-yard gain to reach the New York 36.

Orton, though, threw a lousy pass on 3rd-and-3 that was picked off by Terrell Thomas along the left sideline and a 24-yard return gave the Giants life at their own 40.

On second down Manning completed a 13-yard pass to Mario Manningham to reach the Broncos side of the field for the first time. But New York's drive bogged down at the Denver 21 and Lawrence Tynes kicked a 39-yard field goal to put the visitors on the board.

Denver punted back to the Giants, who seemed to be getting the offense on track. Ware rushed for 14 yards on 3rd-and-1 and Manning's 30-yard pass to a wide open Smith placed New York at the Broncos' 33. Jacobs then ripped off a 13-yard run through the left side but a pair of costly penalties set the drive back to the 34-yard line and Tynes connected on a 52-yard field goal with 31 seconds to go in the third for a 16-6 game.

Nearly five minutes into the fourth, Orton hit Stokley cutting across the middle for a 17-yard touchdown to finish off a nine-play, 64-yard trek and Denver's defense held the lead until the clock read zeros.

Three plays into New York's ensuing drive, Manning was sacked by Elvis Dumervil, who dislodged the ball and recovered at the Giants' 36 to set up a 24-yard Prater boot for a 26-6 difference with five minutes remaining.

Andre Goodman's interception of Manning on a 3rd-and-4 play from midfield all but wrapped things up with 2:43 to play. Denver did punt back to the Giants for one last possession, which proved to be aberration for New York's offense with the Broncos protecting a 20-point cushion.

Hakeem Nicks caught four passes for 66 yards and set a Giants rookie record with a reception in six straight games...Manningham ended with five grabs for 48 yards...Correll Buckhalter helped shoulder the load for Denver's running games, carrying the ball 20 times for 51 yards...The Broncos outgained the Giants 373-267...New York was just 3-of-12 on third-down conversions...Orton completed 18-of-28 passes.

-- Via Sports Network

Cowboys Cruise In Turkey Day Tradition, Top Raiders 24-7

2009-11-26T21:09:09Z

by Erich Schlegel - AP

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For more on the Cowboys and Raiders, check out SBN blogs Blogging The Boys and Silver And Black Pride.

(Sports Network) - Tony Romo threw for 309 yards and a pair of scores, as the Dallas Cowboys' offense got back on track in a 24-7 rout of the Oakland Raiders.

Romo finished 18-for-29 with no interceptions for Dallas (8-3), which had scored just seven points in each of its last two games. The Cowboys dropped a 17-7 decision to Green Bay on November 15 before needing a late touchdown pass on Sunday to take a 7-6 win over Washington.

Miles Austin caught seven passes for 145 yards and a score for the NFC East- leading Cowboys, while Jason Witten recorded 107 yards on five receptions. Roy Williams had a touchdown catch, while Felix Jones ran for a score in the win.

Bruce Gradkowski was 18-of-35 for 200 yards and a touchdown in his second consecutive start for Oakland (3-8), having led the Raiders to a last-minute victory over Cincinnati on Sunday.

Rookie Darrius Heyward-Bey recorded the TD catch, the first of his career.

Stafford Gives Thanks To Packers By Tossing Them Four Picks In 34-12 Lions Loss

2009-11-26T16:34:48Z

by Carlos Osorio - AP

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(Sports Network) - Perhaps winning the football game shouldn't be the main directive for the Detroit Lions on Thursday afternoon.

Maybe, when the Green Bay Packers visit the Motor City, the Lions' first goal should simply be to avoid embarrassment on their marquee Thanksgiving Day showcase.

The Lions have lost five straight on the holiday, with all five defeats coming by double-digits. Detroit was a 47-10 loser against Tennessee on the holiday last season, and has also suffered defeats of 11, 17, 20, and 32 points since last winning on Thanksgiving back in 2003.

That day, the Lions were 22-14 winners over the Packers, and it is that more positive slice of history that Jim Schwartz's club will be trying to replicate as they kick off the Week 12 schedule.

Detroit comes into Thursday's contest basking in the glow of what has become an ultra-rare winning moment for the franchise, though there is a shadow somewhat obscuring that ray of sunshine.

Rookie quarterback and No. 1 overall draft pick Matthew Stafford, who became the first NFL rookie in 72 years to throw five touchdown passes in a game when he led the Lions to a thrilling 38-37 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, is unlikely to play against the Packers after suffering a shoulder injury late in that contest.

Stafford's injury means veteran Daunte Culpepper is likely to make his second straight Thanksgiving Day start, and Culpepper can only hope that this outing goes better than last year's.

Against the Titans, Culpepper was 13-of-26 for just 134 yards with a touchdown and an interception, as Detroit fell into a 35-10 halftime hole. Culpepper is 0-7 as the Lions' starter over the past two seasons, including a 26-0 loss the Packers in his most recent outing this season, and hasn't won a game he's opened since leading the Raiders to a victory over the Chiefs on Nov. 25, 2007.

Seeking to extend the misery for the quarterback and his team will be Green Bay, which also enters Week 12 in a good news/bad news situation.

The Packers have improved their playoff prospects with credible back-to-back victories over the Cowboys (17-7) and 49ers (30-24), but in Sunday's win over San Francisco lost two lynch pins of a defense that had helped fuel those wins.

Outside linebacker Aaron Kampman - a two-time Pro Bowler and the team's best pass rusher over the past four seasons - and physical veteran cornerback Al Harris were both lost for the season due to knee injuries suffered against the 49ers.

The Lions will be looking to exploit that factor as the Niners did in cutting a 23-3 deficit to six points late in last week's contest, and the absences will place more pressure on Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay offense.

Rodgers was 32-of-45 for 344 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions against San Francisco, his third 300-yard game of the season and first since tossing for a season-high 358 yards against Detroit on Oct. 18th.

Green Bay is 12-18-1 all-time on Thanksgiving.

SERIES HISTORY

The series between the Lions and Packers dates back to the 1930 season, with Green Bay holding a 87-64-7 regular season edge. The Pack has won eight straight and 10 of the last 11 in the series, including the aforementioned 26-0 home win in Week 6, and a 48-25 triumph in their trip to Ford Field in Week 2 of last season.

Detroit's last victory over Green Bay came by a 17-3 count in Week 1 of the 2005 campaign in the Motor City.

In addition to the regular season series, the clubs have met twice in the postseason, with Green Bay winning NFC First-Round Playoff matchups in the 1993 and 1994 seasons.

Packers head coach Mike McCarthy is 7-0 in his career against the Lions, while Detroit's Schwartz is 0-1 against both McCarthy and Green Bay as a head coach.

WHEN THE PACKERS HAVE THE BALL

One of the top issues for Green Bay as it heads to Detroit is finishing off drives, something the Packers did poorly against the Lions back in Week 6. The Pack rolled up 435 yards of total offense and held the ball for more than 40 of the game's 60 minutes, but scored just two touchdowns, none after halftime. As mentioned, Rodgers (2788 passing yards, 19 TD, 5 INT) comes off a fine passing day against the 49ers, one in which wideout Greg Jennings (43 receptions, 3 TD) had a long-awaited big game with five catches for a season-high 126 yards and a touchdown. Fellow WR Donald Driver (46 receptions, 4 TD), who has been the team's most reliable pass-catcher this season, was held to five grabs totaling 40 yards on the day, but tight end Jermichael Finley (24 receptions, 1 TD) and wideout Jordy Nelson (14 receptions, 2 TD) helped pick up the slack. Finley had a career-high seven catches totaling 54 yards in the loss, and Nelson scored his second touchdown of the year. Green Bay running back Ryan Grant (829 rushing yards, 5 TD, 20 receptions) comes off just his second 100-yard game of the season, a 21-carry, 129-yard effort that included a touchdown. The Packers are last in the league in sacks allowed (43) and fourth-down conversion percentage (16.7), but have committed the fewest turnovers in the league (8) and lead the NFL in turnover margin (+14).

Though Detroit did manage its second win of the Schwartz era last week, the team's struggling defense came up with few answers in the victory. After surrendering 37 points and 439 yards to what was the worst offense in the league entering the day, the Lions are now last in the league in scoring defense (30.1 points per game), passing defense (275.3 yards per game), opponents' completion percentage (70.4), and are tied for last in interceptions recorded (6) along with the Browns and Redskins. Complicating matters for Detroit are injuries that place the status of safeties Kalvin Pearson (hamstring) and Ko Simpson (knee), linebacker Ernie Sims (hamstring), and defensive end Dewayne White (toe) in doubt as the team embarks on a short week. Cornerbacks Phillip Buchanon (29 tackles) and William James (37 tackles, 1 INT) will be among those responsible for slowing the Green Bay receivers, with safety Louis Delmas (55 tackles, 1 sack, 1 INT) among those helping over the top. Outside linebacker Julian Peterson (44 tackles, 3.5 sacks), who had two-and-a-half sacks of Rodgers in Week 6, will be seeking a repeat performance on Thursday. A Lions squad that ranks 20th in the league against the run (116.2 yards per game) will lean hard on top run-stopper Larry Foote (71 tackles, 2 sacks) and fellow linebacker DeAndre Levy (47 tackles, 1 INT). Foote had a game-high 12 tackles and Detroit's only sack against Cleveland last Sunday.

WHEN THE LIONS HAVE THE BALL

The Lions come off a week in which they piled up 473 yards of total offense, a suggestion that the team was turning the corner on that side of the ball, but the Stafford injury could put the brakes on that progress. Making matters worse are hand and knee injuries to top wideout Calvin Johnson (39 receptions, 2 TD), which place the talented receiver's status in doubt one week after he caught seven balls for a season-high 161 yards and a touchdown. Probable starter Culpepper (384 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 INT), who carries a season passer rating of 66.9 into Thursday's contest, could have to rely on wideouts Bryant Johnson (24 receptions, 2 TD) and Dennis Northcutt (26 receptions, 1 TD), along with tight end Brandon Pettigrew (29 receptions, 2 TD), if he wishes to engineer the upset. The rookie Pettigrew made a big impact against the Browns with six catches for 72 yards, including the game-winning touchdown with no time remaining on the clock. In the running game, Kevin Smith (560 rushing yards, 33 receptions, 4 TD) is still seeking his first 100-yard rushing effort since September, but last week hauled in four balls for 104 yards and a touchdown as a pass-catcher. Detroit has thrown a league-high-tying 18 interceptions on the season, a total Culpepper will be trying not to add to, and the club's 30 sacks allowed are also near the bottom of the league.

Packers defensive coordinator Dom Capers is in search of sandbags to stem the tide of injuries that the team is contending with at the moment. In addition to the loss of Kampman and Harris for the year, Pro Bowl cornerback Charles Woodson (hip) and 2009 sacks leader Cullen Jenkins (ankle) are both dealing with injuries that have them considered questionable heading into Week 12. In the secondary, the team will need players like cornerbacks Tramon Williams (23 tackles, 1 INT) and Jarrett Bush (8 tackles) to take on an increased role, with safeties Nick Collins (31 tackles, 3 INT, 1 sack) and Derrick Martin (18 tackles) helping out over the top. In the pass rushing game, it is time for first-round pick and outside linebacker Clay Matthews (27 tackles, 4 sacks) to begin living up to his promise. The most stable area of the team at the moment, given the injuries elsewhere, is in the run-stopping game where inside linebackers Nick Barnett (61 tackles, 3 sacks) and A.J. Hawk (50 tackles, 1 sack), along with linemen B.J. Raji (13 tackles, 1 sack) and Johnny Jolly (26 tackles, 1 INT), are pacing a unit that is fourth in NFL rushing defense (90.7 yards per game). The first-round rookie Raji posted his first career sack last week against a 49ers team that rushed the ball just 10 times.

FANTASY FOCUS

Rodgers has taken some heat for getting sacked a lot this year, but the former first-rounder rarely turns the ball over and is a regular contributor to fantasy lineups. He's a must-start against the Lions, as are Jennings and Driver, his top two targets. Now healthy, Finley is well worth considering at the tight end position, and Grant - who comes off a 100-yard week - is a solid play as well against a suspect Detroit defense. Even against the Lions, the Packers defense is a shaky start given the team's injury problems, but kicker Mason Crosby may be worth using.

Stafford would have been an intriguing play this week for the Lions had he not suffered the injury, but his replacement, Culpepper, holds less appeal. If he's healthy, the same cannot be said for Calvin Johnson, who finally looks to be living up to his fantasy promise, and the rookie Pettigrew, who seems to be developing into a useful tight end. Kevin Smith had over 100 receiving yards and a touchdown against the Browns, but that type of production has been the exception rather than the rule for the back. Detroit kicker Jason Hanson has a long history of Thanksgiving Day production, but don't count on him getting as many chances as he did last week, when he had a field goal and five points- after.

OVERALL ANALYSIS

The Lions may win another game or two this season, but their need for a major comeback against a horrible Browns team last Sunday should show that they are a long way from beating a quality opponent. The second major injury to Stafford this season isn't going to help matters any on offense, and the defense had trouble slowing a Cleveland attack that was last in the league in a number of categories just five days ago. The Packers, meanwhile, may not be perfect, and the injuries to Kampman and Harris are troubling indeed, but Green Bay is still light years better than Detroit, and will score enough points to extend the Lions' Thanksgiving Day misery by another year.

Sports Network Predicted Outcome: Packers 37, Lions 20

NFL Week 12 Power Rankings: Where Our Bloggers Give The NFC East No Respect

2009-11-25T18:12:09Z

by Tony Gutierrez - AP

Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young (10) points down the field as he rushes for a first down against the Houston Texans during the third quarter of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 23, 2009 in Houston. The Titans beat the Texans 20-17. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)

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The difference between the haves and have-nots has perhaps never been as large in the NFL. For another week, the Colts, Saints, and Vikings controlled the top three of our NFL blogger power rankings, while the Lions, Bucs, Rams, and Browns bring up the rear once again. Parity indeed seems dead.

As for this week's power rankings, both the biggest riser and biggest faller participated in the Monday night game -- the Titans and Texans. Tennessee climbed up to 15th in our power rankings, five spots from last week, on the strength of their last-minute win over Houston. Maybe running the table and getting to ten wins isn't that crazy. Games against the Cardinals, Colts and Chargers will certainly not be easy, but the way the Titans are playing they're at least winnable. As for the Texans, the loss moves them back in the crowded pack of teams angling for the AFC's wild card spots, and our bloggers moved them back from 13th down to 19th.

And Browns fans, at least Eric Mangini will probably get fired after this season, right?

NFL Power Rankings

Brett Favre, MVP

Rank (LW)	Record	Comments
1 (1)	Indianapolis Colts 10-0	SBN's Stampede Blue shines the light on the deserving (and underhyped) Jim Caldwell as possible Coach of the Year. Yes, Caldwell inherited a talented, veteran team, but he has handled the transition seamlessly, while changing the team's defensive schemes without any hiccups. At the very least, Caldwell should be receiving more recognition for what he's done.
2 (2)	New Orleans Saints 10-0	SBN's Canal Street Chronicles makes the case that this Monday's game against the Patriots shouldn't be blown out of proportion; after all, there are few playoff implications and the teams play in different conferences. To which we say: sure, but it's Brady and Brees in a game that will tell us a lot more about where both teams stand. Count us among the geeked up.
3 (3)	Minnesota Vikings 9-1	Brett Favre, MVP? Get ready for the (entirely justified) hype. After leading the league in interceptions last season, Favre has only thrown three this year, along with his 21 touchdowns. With their dominating front four and bevy of playmakers on offense, the Vikings continue to look like the most complete team in the NFC, and maybe the entire league.
4 (5)	New England Patriots 7-3	Remember the Pats' early season struggles? Well it seems that they may have been due in large part to the absence of one pint-sized possession receiver: Wes Wel-kah. Expect fireworks when the Pats take on the Saints on Monday Night.
5 (7)	San Diego Chargers 7-3	Note to Josh McDaniels: you should probably wait until after the game to tell the opposing team that you "own them" -- because when they beat down your team 32-3, you look a tad foolish. After starting the season 2-3, the Chargers are firmly in control of their own destiny, and look set to win another AFC West crown.
6 (4)	Cincinnati Bengals 7-3	Bengals fans were willing to write off last week's loss to the Raiders as a mulligan (it's easier to do that when all the other teams in the division lose). A loss this weekend to the Browns would not be quite as forgivable.
7 (8)	Arizona Cardinals 7-3	After bottling up opposing team's running backs en route to the top-ranked run defense in the NFL, the Cardinals have been gouged on the ground the past month. And with a trip to Tennessee coming up, SBN's Revenge of the Birds wonders whether the Cardinals will be able to slow down Chris Johnson and VY. While the Cardinals appear in control of the NFC West, if they're going to duplicate last year's run to the Super Bowl, they'll need to get back to shutting down opposing team's running games.
8 (6)	Pittsburgh Steelers 6-4	As SBN's Behind The Steel Curtain notes, only the Patriots and Giants have had a better yardage gained/allowed differential than the Steelers. Poor special teams play helps explain this discrepancy.
9 (9)	Dallas Cowboys 7-3	Will the Cowboys be able to put up points against the blitz-happy Raiders? While such a question may have seemed laughable a few weeks ago, the Cowboys' last two games have re-opened all the questions about Tony Romo and their offense. Expect a heavy dose of Marion Barber on Turkey Day.
10 (10)	Philadelphia Eagles 6-4	The Eagles made more of a commitment to the running game last week, getting rookie LeSean McCoy 20 carries against the Bears. If they can continue to remember that they are allowed to hand the ball off, the Eagles should continue to be dangerous.
11 (15)	New York Giants 6-4	It might not have been the prettiest win, but it was a win -- which is more than the Giants could have said for the past month, as Ralph Vacchiano of the New York Daily News pointed out. With the Cowboys struggling to score and the Eagles still looking inconsistent, it's not outside the realm of possibility that the Giants could storm back and win the NFC East.
12 (14)	Green Bay Packers 6-4	Losing both Al Harris and Aaron Kampman for the season is certainly a blow for the Packers' defense as they fight for the playoffs. Still, the Packers' most glaring weakness is their inability to protect Aaron Rodgers. Unless they can improve in that area it's difficult to believe that they'll be playing in January.
13 (12)	Baltimore Ravens 5-5	Ravens fans have to come to expect this: hang with one of the league's elite teams, only to lose in heartbreaking fashion in the final few minutes. Despite this, the Ravens remain only a game out of wildcard (along with a host of other 5-5 teams), and will have a chance to get into the race against the 6-4 Steelers this weekend. Don't write off the Ravens just yet.
14 (11)	Denver Broncos 6-4	Remember when the Broncos were winning games like this? With their fourth straight loss, safety Brian Dawkins called a players-only meeting to clear the air after Brandon Marshall and Knowshon Moreno tussled on the sidelines last week. Hopefully that will spark the Broncos, because this week's game against the Giants has a season-defining feel to it.
15 (20)	Tennessee Titans 4-6	VY just wins football games. While running the table might be a bit much for the Titans, with the Cardinals, Colts, and Chargers still up, 8-8 or 9-7 seems eminently doable for a team that appeared dead in the water after the "Boston Massacre".
16 (19)	Jacksonville Jaguars 6-4	Don't look now, but the Jaguars would be in the playoffs if the season ended today. While it's hard to imagine them maintaining this pace unless they improve their pass defense -- and losing top corner Rashean Mathis will certainly not help -- MJD and Mike Sims-Walker give them enough playmaking on offense to keep them in the hunt.
17 (16)	Atlanta Falcons 5-5	As SBN's The Falcoholic points out, Atlanta's end of season schedule is very favorable, outside of matchups against the Eagles and Saints. The Falcons will have to win at least one of those two games if they are going to have a realistic shot at the playoffs.
18 (17)	Miami Dolphins 5-5	SBN's The Phinsider zeroes in on the big question for Miami this season: can they beat a team that's "better" on paper than they are? While Miami nearly pulled off upsets against the Colts and Saints, they have yet to beat a win a game they weren't more or less favored to win. With games against the Steelers and Patriots still on tap, the Dolphins will have to if they're going to make the playoffs.
19 (13)	Houston Texans 5-5	Painful fact: the Texans could realistically be 9-1. With two losses coming on a failure to punch it in from the goal line, and two others coming on missed field goals, the Texans have lost four very winnable games. Even if they had only won half of those games, that would still mean a 7-3 record and an inside track on the playoffs. With the Colts coming to town this weekend, Houston will have to figure things out quickly if they're going to stay in the playoff hunt.
20 (18)	San Francisco 49ers 4-6	Niners fans want to take a vacation from quotidian things like won-loss records, and imagine San Francisco turning it around while the Cardinals collapse, setting up a December battle for first place between the two. In the NFC West the past few years, crazier things have happened.
21 (21)	Carolina Panthers 4-6	SBN's Cat Scratch Reader takes issue with Panthers beat reporter Darin Gantt's contention that the team's problems can be traced to franchising Julius Peppers, since it prevented the team from using its cap space on adding depth to the roster. But as Cat Scratch Reader points out, the bigger issue is that the team does not have adequate play at quarterback, which is hard to blame on franchising Peppers. Sometimes football is simple; you usually need a good quarterback to win, and the Panthers do not have one.
22 (22)	New York Jets 4-6	After their scintillating start, Gang Green has dropped six of seven, and effectively out of the wildcard race. After crying in front of the team last week apparently did not help, head coach Rex Ryan will now take on a bigger role on the offensive side of the ball. Stay tuned for what Ryan will do next week if the Jets don't beat the Panthers.
23 (23)	Chicago Bears 4-6	Bill Cowher would reportedly be "excited" about coaching the Bears, which has some Bears fans excited too. Somehow, I can't imagine Cowher and his trademark grimace would have much patience for Jay Cutler and his trademark petulance -- which is probably exactly what the Bears need.
24 (26)	Washington Redskins 3-7	While Skins fans are debating whether Jason Campbell or the offensive line is more to blame for the team's poor play, early reports are that owner Dan Snyder has been scouting Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen and Texas quarterback Colt McCoy. Just what Skins fans want: Dan Snyder scouting.
25 (24)	Seattle Seahawks 3-7	SBN's Field Gulls explains that you shouldn't be fooled if Seattle's run game starts producing better: they face a slate of easy run defenses down the stretch, and Justin Forsett has been a revelation, but their offensive line is still average at best (although they have played slightly better as of late).
26 (27)	Kansas City Chiefs 3-7	The Chiefs managed to follow the Bengals' blueprint against the Steelers, blitzing Pittsburgh into mistakes, and just making enough plays offensively themselves. While Matt Cassel's numbers have not been great, he at least gives them a chance to make plays down the field -- something few other bad teams can say
27 (25)	Buffalo Bills 3-7	Now that is what Bills fans were expecting when Terrell Owens came to Buffalo this offseason. Too bad it's nine games too late to make a difference for the Bills.
28 (28)	Oakland Raiders 3-7	What a difference a mediocre quarterback makes! After finally, belatedly benching Jamarcus Russell, the Raiders at least have a quarterback in Bruce Gradkowski who can hit open receivers. That, along with a few lucky breaks, were enough to get the Raiders their second victory over a team with a winning record this season.
29 (30)	Detroit Lions 2-8	The Lions will most likely be without starting quarterback Matthew Stafford on Turkey Day, but they can take this consolation: Stafford is a man. For the first time in quite awhile, there is cause for real hope in Detroit.
30 (29)	Tampa Bay Bucs 1-9	Former defensive coordinator Jim Bates does not seem long for Tampa Bay. After being demoted, Bates has not showed up at the team's practice facility for the past two days. The team is reportedly going back to the famed Tampa Two defense, which they had abandoned this year for a more aggressive defensive scheme. Given that they currently rank 29th in total defense, according to Football Outsiders' DVOA metric, this should decision should only help.
31 (31)	St. Louis Rams 1-9	The Rams' passing "attack" has been so anemic this year that Rams fans responded to the news that Kyle Boller will replace the injured Marc Bulger with a collective shrug. It's not like it can get much worse, after all.
32 (32)	Cleveland Browns 1-9	Eric Mangini must know his time in Cleveland is limited if he's resorting to complaints like this. Maybe he should try blaming himself for taking the timeout that let Matthew Stafford come back onto the field for the final play.

Mike Shanahan Spends Two Days Meeting With Bills

2009-11-25T18:05:08Z

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As was expected, the NFL's sexiest eligible bachelor, Mike Shanahan, met with the Bills Monday and Tuesday of this week to discuss their head coaching vacancy. This from Adam Schefter:

[Bills chief operating officer Russ Brandon] delivered what was said to be a persuasive presentation about why Shanahan should be interested in the Bills. He pitched Shanahan on the merits of the market, the condition of the franchise and what a good match it could be.

The two sides did agree on one point: Each would take its time in this process, making sure it makes the right decision about what's next for each.

"We had an excellent meeting," Shanahan said Wednesday. "I was really impressed with Russ Brandon and everything he had to say. We're going to stay in touch and see what develops."

Via a reliable source embedded deep within the Bills' camp, we have acquired the Powerpoint presentation that Brandon showed Shanahan, which consisted of just one slide:

Very persuasive, indeed.

For slightly more reverent coverage of the meetings, head over to SB Nation's Buffalo Rumblings.

Calvin Johnson Misses Practice With Injuries

2009-11-24T19:31:20Z

by Paul Sancya - AP

6 days ago: Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, left, tries to make a catch in the end zone as Cleveland Browns defensive back Brodney Pool defends in the first quarter of an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009. The play was ruled incomplete. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)

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Lions' standout WR Calvin Johnson sat out practice today nursing hand and knee injuries reports the Detroit Free Press. When asked about Johnson's status for this weekend, Lions Coach Jim Schwartz responded, "We'll see."

Bill Cowher Rebuffs Bills For Now, Reportedly Interested In Bears Or Texans

2009-11-24T04:33:07Z

via a.espncdn.com

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Bill Cowher tells the Buffalo Bills he's not interested in the head coaching job but later tells NFL Network that he'd listen if the Bears or Texans made the same offer.

At or near the top of almost any NFL coaching list would be longtime Steeler head coach. He brings with him a history of winning, a Super Bowl ring and a jaw that could crank a walnut.

The Bills, currently without a head coach to call their own, made a Hail Mary shoutout to Cowher to see if he might be interested. With the changes to the salary keep looming and the Bills being located in Buffalo, NY, Bill let his suitor down gently.

Cowher informed the team that he is not interested in speaking to any clubs about potential jobs until after the season, however, according to the sources, and he could have several options available to him should he opt to return to coaching in 2010.

Upstate New York copy editors everywhere shed a tear at the lost potential of having a Bill coach the Bills.

That would be that except that Cowher is apparently now telling folks that if that offer would come from the Bears or Texans, he would be much more interested.

An NFL Network report Monday night cited a source that said the idea of coaching the Bears or Texans "would excite,'' Cowher if the job becomes open.

That'll simply make the anti-Lovie contingent among Bears fans even more antsy. But the same report said Cowher would command in the range of $10 million per-season - a staggering price even for a head coach with a Super Bowl ring.

When Jim Mora Jr. floated the idea of coaching the Washington Huskies while employed by the Falcons a few years back, he was vilified. Now Cowher isn't working for another squad, but to publicly throw his name out there for two jobs that currently have head coaches, well that just seems like some sort of breach of Head Coach Fraternity Code. It will be interesting to se if Cowher gets a pass on this, especially in Chicago where many might be more than happy to push Lovie Smith out the door for The Chin.

Wide Left: Kris Brown Misses With Time Running Out, Titans Top Texans 20-17

2009-11-23T23:52:17Z

by Dave Einsel - AP

5 days ago: Houston Texans kicker Kris Brown (3) reacts after missing a field goal in closing seconds of the fourth quarter in an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans Monday, Nov. 23, 2009 in Houston. The Titans beat the Texans 20-17. (AP Photo/Dave Einsel)

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Rob Bironas booted a 53-yard field goal with 47 seconds remaining and Kris Brown missed a potential tying kick for a second straight game as Tennessee continued its resurgence with a 20-17 victory over the Houston Texans.

For more on the Texans and the Titans, check out Battle Red Blog and Music City Miracles, respectively.

(Sports Network) - Clearly, there is little time for the Houston Texans to dip their collective toe back in the water following the team's Week 10 bye. At 5-4, the Texans' margin for error is slim if they wish to keep their playoff hopes intact, and the resurgent Tennessee Titans don't figure to make things easy on Houston at Reliant Stadium Monday night.

The Texans already own a win over the Titans this season - a 34-31 thriller in Nashville back in Week 2 - but this Tennessee team has a new quarterback, and seemingly a new energy. Tennessee is 3-0 since quarterback Vince Young entered the starting lineup, making the Texans' prospects at their first home-and-home sweep of the Titans since 2004 seem daunting indeed.

Houston had an extra week to lick its wounds after a disappointing Week 9 that saw them drop a 20-17 decision to the first-place Indianapolis Colts.

The Texans, who were less than 15 minutes from making a statement win after Steve Slaton's 1-yard touchdown run put them ahead, 17-13, couldn't finish in their eventual loss, allowing Peyton Manning to engineer an 8-play, 61-yard touchdown drive culminating in a two-yard touchdown run by Houston native Joseph Addai with 7:11 left in the fourth quarter.

A Matt Schaub interception in Colts territory with 2:20 to play provided a glancing blow to the team's comeback prospects, but Houston fought its way off the ropes and got in position for a makeable 42-yard field goal for Kris Brown with one second to play that would have sent the game to overtime.

But Brown's kick went wide left, essentially taking Houston out of the equation for its first-ever AFC South title, and damaging their wild card prospects as well.

That said, the Titans would love to be where the Texans are at this moment, even though their recent work would suggest that the team is nearly back after its 0-6 start.

In last Sunday's 41-17 rout of the Bills, Tennessee running back Chris Johnson continued his recent exhilarating display, carrying 26 times for 132 yards and two touchdowns, and also catching nine balls for 100 yards out of the backfield to become the first player in franchise history to hit triple-digits via both the ground and air since Billy Cannon on Dec. 10, 1961.

Johnson has inserted himself into the NFL Offensive Player of the Year discussion during a three-game stretch that has seen the second-year-pro pile up 495 rushing yards and six touchdowns. The second-year back out of East Carolina leads the NFL in rushing yards (1091), and the Titans are No. 1 in the league in yards per carry (5.3) and rushes of 20 yards or longer (17).

Alongside the running back during his explosive run has been quarterback Vince Young, who maintained his efficiency by completing 17-of-25 passes for a season-high 210 yards, a touchdown, an interception, and 29 rushing yards in a winning effort last week.

The Titans' defense has also been a credit to the cause after some major problems during the first six weeks, and last week saw safety Vincent Fuller and cornerback Rod Hood help put the game away with pick-six touchdowns against the Bills.

Matthew Stafford Is A Man: Rookie QB Will Play Today Despite Shoulder Injury

2009-11-23T23:17:37Z

Stafford

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Manhood has its price, as Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford is learning. After tossing a touchdown on the final play of the Lion's thrilling 38-37 win over the Browns despite suffering a shoulder injury the previous play, John Niyo of the Detroit News reports Matthew Stafford will miss the team's Thanksgiving game due to a sprained AC joint in his left shoulder. If Stafford can't go, backup Daunte Culpepper will start when the team faces off with the divisional rival Packers on Thursday.

Stafford had the game of his -- albeit, young -- career last Sunday, throwing for 422 yards and five touchdowns (along with two picks), as he guided the Lions to their second win of the season in dramatic fashion. Trailing the Browns by six, the Lions appeared to lose the game when Stafford threw an interception in the end zone as time expired -- only to be given a second chance after pass interference was called on Browns defensive back Hank Poteat for tackling Lions wideout Calvin Johnson in the end zone. With the ball on the one-yard line for an untimed down, the Lions looked as if they would have to go without Stafford, as he had gotten drilled on the previous down, and appeared to be in a great deal of pain (in addition to being required by rule to sit out at least a down since play had stopped for him). But a Browns timeout allowed Stafford to get back on the field after fending off the Lions training staff, just in time to throw the game-winning touchdown to tight end Brandon Pettigrew.

Video of the final play below:

Marc Bulger Out 3-6 Weeks With Leg Fracture; Kyle Boller Sighting To Come

2009-11-23T21:56:34Z

by Tom Gannam - AP

St. Louis Rams quarterback Marc Bulger, bottom right, is slow to get up after being tackled and fumbling the ball which was recovered by teammate Brandon Gibson (11) as Arizona Cardinals' Karlos Dansby (58) and Darnell Dockett (90) look on during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in St. Louis. Arizona won 21-13. (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)

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Stop me if you've heard this one before: Marc Bulger is "really banged up", according the the St. Louis Rams official twitter account:

Monday Injuries: Bulger really banged up. strained groin/hammy, also had blow to head and will be tested Tuesday. MRI on knee today also.

Although the Rams have not necessarily ruled Bulger out for this coming Sunday, he is described as one of the players with "the most serious ailments" of the injured Rams players.

If Bulger is unable to play, backup Kyle Boller will once again take the reins for a suddenly decent Rams offense.

Ravens' CB Fabian Washington Out With ACL Tear

2009-11-23T21:31:27Z

by Gail Burton - AP

about 1 month ago: Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco, left, pulls in a pass under pressure from Baltimore Ravens cornerback Fabian Washington during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Gail Burton)

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Ravens' starting cornerback Fabian Washington likely has a torn ACL. This from Aaron Wilson's twitter:

Fabian Washington likely has a torn ACL, per Harbaugh. Lardarius Webb expected to start in his place now.

If Washington's ACL is indeed torn he will likely be placed on injured reserve, ending his season. Given how vulnerable the Ravens' pass defense has been for large parts of the season, losing one of their starters in the secondary could be rather debilitating for the Ravens.

After dropping another close game, this time to the undefeated Colts, the 5-5 Ravens face an uphill battle to make the playoffs in the crowded AFC field.

Bills OL Seth McKinney Out For Season With Knee Injury

2009-11-23T21:10:15Z

Seth McKinney

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More bad news for the Buffalo Bills and their beleaguered offensive line: guard Seth McKinney is out for the season with a knee injury, according to the team's official twitter account. McKinney is listed as both the backup center and the backup right guard.

With Eric Wood's devastating broken leg, McKinney would have become the starting right guard. The Bills currently do not have anybody listed behind Wood and McKinney on the depth chart.

The Bills have been beset by injuries along their offensive line this year, losing tackles Demetrius Bell and Brad Butler, in addition to guard Eric Wood. The team traded All-Pro left tackle Jason Peters last offseason, and released tackle Langston Walker at the beginning of the season.

Dolphins' NT Jason Ferguson on IR, Done For the Season

2009-11-23T20:26:49Z

by Lynne Sladky - AP

3 months ago: Miami Dolphins' Joe Kowalewski, left, celebrates with Jason Ferguson, right, after scoring a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers during a preseason NFL football game at Land Shark Stadium in Miami, Saturday, Aug. 22, 2009. The Dolphins won 27-17. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

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Miami Dolphins' nose tackle and defensive captain Jason Ferguson is going to be placed on injured reserve today, ending his season. This from Jeff Darlington's twitter:

NT Jason Ferguson will miss the rest of the season because of a quad injury, Sparano says. Another big blow. Second captain to land on IR.

It is unclear who will fill Ferguson's role in the middle of Miami's stout run defense, but the loss will undoubtedly hurt the Dolphins' already waning playoff chances.

Packers LB Aaron Kampman Out For Season With Torn ACL

2009-11-23T19:39:34Z

by Ross D. Franklin - AP

2 months ago: FILE - In this Aug. 28, 2009, file photo, Green Bay Packers linebacker Aaron Kampman (74) celebrates after returning a fumble for a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL preseason football game against the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale, Ariz. Kampman's ability to make the switch from pro bowl defensive end to outside linebacker in the Packers' new 3-4 defense was one of the team's biggest questions heading into camp, and it remains so going into Thursday's final dress rehearsal in Tennessee. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)

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The injuries are piling up for the Packers on the defensive side of the ball. Aside from losing starting cornerback Al Harris for the remainder of the season to a torn ACL, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that the team will also be without starting outside linebacker Aaron Kampman, also due to a torn ACL. From the Journal-Sentinel:

Kampman was returning from a one-game absence due to a concussion and was playing well, getting his first sack since the Cleveland game Oct. 25 and posting a team-high four tackles. Then, with the 49ers facing second and 20 at their own 38, Kampman charged from his outside linebacker position at right tackle Adam Snyder. Just as he got his hands on Snyder, Kampman's left leg gave way.

It was clear right away that the injury was serious by the way Kampman clutched it, and team physician Pat McKenzie spent time testing it for laxity. Kampman was taken to the sideline and then driven off the field on a cart with 7 minutes, 42 seconds left.

Kampman had struggled this season, transitioning from playing defensive end in a 4-3 scheme, to playing with his hand off the ground as an outside rush linebacker in the 3-4; after averaging double digit sacks the previous three seasons, he only had 3.5 so far this year.

SBN's Acme Packing Company, meanwhile, breaks down how the Packers will try to replace Kampman:

LB Brad Jones has impressed the last two week and he'll start in Kampman's spot. LB Brady Poppinga is his backup, with LB Jeremy Thompson behind them. Jones showed some promising pass rush moves this preseason, but his strength right now is against the run and in pass coverage.

Chargers' Antonio Cromartie Investigated For Alleged Assault With Deadly Weapon

2009-11-23T18:30:52Z

by Keith Srakocic - AP

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San Diego ran over the Broncos in Denver yesterday, winning 32-3 and taking control of the AFC West, but not everything was good news for the Chargers because cornerback Antonio Cromartie is (allegedly) throwing champagne like they won the championship game. The La Jolla Light is reporting that Cromartie is "under investigation for alleged assault with a deadly weapon."

Cromartie allegedly threw a champagne bottle that hit another person in the head at Bar West, 959 Hornblend St., around 1:15 a.m., according to the San Diego Police Department.

The Pro Bowl star said that it "slipped out of his hand," said department spokesman Detective Gary Hassen. No injuries were serious enough to require hospital treatment, according to the detective, and no one was arrested.

While Cromartie's defense is that it simply "slipped out of his hand," his agent his taking it a step further and trying to implicate his teammates.

A cut to the head was suffered, and Cromartie was identified as the person who threw the bottle. That hasn't been verified, though.

"This is absolutely not a story," Cromartie's agent, Gary Wichard, said. "Antonio didn't throw the bottle. He was there with two other players. Antonio is at a complex working out. Again, this is not a story."

The surest sign that this may in fact be a story is the agent saying that it is absolutely not one. Where there's smoke, there's fire.

We'll have more updates as they come, and follow SB Nation's Bolts From The Blue for more news and reaction.

(via Brooks and TMZ)

Bengals Fumble Gives Gradkowski, Raiders Win

2009-11-23T02:50:19Z

by Ben Margot - AP

6 days ago: Oakland Raiders' Brandon Myers, right, runs with the ball after recovering a fumble against the Cincinnati Bengals in the fourth quarter of a football game Sunday, Nov. 15, 2009, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

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For more on the Bengals and Raiders, check out Cincy Jungle and Silver And Black Pride.

(Sports Network) - Sebastian Janikowski kicked a game-winning field goal with 15 seconds to play after the Bengals fumbled on a kickoff return, lifting Oakland to a stunning 20-17 win over Cincinnati.

The 33-yard field goal was set up by an Andre Caldwell fumble on the kickoff following a game-tying touchdown throw by Bruce Gradkowski.

The 29-yard scoring strike to Louis Murphy, which came with just 33 seconds to play, was one of two on the day for Gradkowski, who was named Oakland's starter in place of former No. 1 draft pick JaMarcus Russell.

Gradkowski finished the game 17-of-34 for 183 yards, with one interception, as the Raiders (3-7) snapped a three-game slide. The quarterback came up big down the stretch, as two plays before his TD pass to Murphy, he converted a 4th- and-10 with a 16-yard pass to Chaz Schilens.

The loss snapped a three-game streak for Cincinnati (7-3), which had a chance to further its lead in the AFC North, as second-place Pittsburgh fell to 6-4 with an overtime loss to Kansas City earlier Sunday.

The Bengals, who fumbled five times and lost three, got 119 yards on 21 carries from Bernard Scott, who was filling in for an injured Cedric Benson (hip).

Carson Palmer threw for 207 yards on 14-of-22 passing and ran for both of Cincinnati's touchdowns in the setback, which snapped the Bengals' franchise- record five-game road winning streak.

Cincinnati came into Sunday's contest with an 0-9 record all-time in Oakland, but looked ready to take its first victory there after getting the ball with six minutes left with a 17-10 lead.

The Bengals got possession at their own 21-yard line following Johnathan Joseph's interception of a deep Gradkowski pass. They advanced into Oakland territory, but punted after facing a 4th-and-4 at the 48.

The Raiders took over with 2:12 remaining and Gradkowski found tight end Zach Miller on the second play for 19 yards. He went to Miller again on the next play for nine yards to bring the ball across midfield.

A one-yard rush by Darren McFadden to the Cincinnati 45 converted a third down with 1:11 remaining, though the drive seemed to stall there, as Gradkowski threw three consecutive incompletions.

But on 4th-and-10, he found Schilens for 16 yards up the middle, and Gradkowski spiked the ball with 41 seconds left. On the following play, he pump-faked and sent a pass deep to the left for Murphy, who had turned to face the ball as his defender kept running a few steps. Murphy made the clean catch, turned and stretched across the goal line as he was being tackled.

"I just went through my progression and Louis was the second look," Gradkowski said. "I kind of saw the D-back was on top of him so I threw it [to the] back shoulder to him. He made a great play to catch the ball and get in the end zone."

The call was upheld after review, making it a 17-17 game, which looked headed for overtime if not for Caldwell's kickoff fumble. Brandon Myers reached up to strip the ball from Caldwell's arm, then recovered it at the Cincinnati 17.

Gradkowski ran for two yards, then took a knee twice to set up Janikowski's winner.

"This is what happens when you don't take care of the football and take care of things the correct way," Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said. "Throughout today we had a lot of opportunities, but we didn't take care of business. Guys played hard today, but we didn't play winning football."

The result was a stunning turnaround for the Bengals, who built a 14-0 lead in the first half and scored on the game's opening drive. They went 78 yards in 14 plays, eating up about 9 1/2 minutes of the first quarter in the process.

Palmer found Chad Ochocinco for 10 yards on third down to set up a 1st-and- goal at the one, then ran into the end zone with 5:32 left in the frame.

Cincinnati fumbled on its next possession, giving the Raiders the ball in Bengals territory, but Oakland gave the ball right back thanks to a fumble by Gradkowski.

Cincinnati then drove 68 yards, as Palmer's one-yard run into the end zone capped the nine-play drive to make it a two-score contest.

The Raiders got one of those TDs back late in the half on a 10-yard pass to Miller, capping a 71-yard drive with 59 seconds left.

Janikowski kicked a 52-yarder on the opening drive of the third, and Shayne Graham missed a 37-yard try on the Bengals' ensuing drive. But Graham got another chance after Raiders running back Michael Bush fumbled deep in Oakland territory.

Cincinnati couldn't find the end zone, leading to a 25-yarder from Graham to make it a 17-10 game.

The Bengals got to the Oakland 14 early in the fourth quarter, but Jeremi Johnson fumbled and Raiders defensive lineman Desmond Bryant recovered.

Miller finished with five catches for 65 yards for the Raiders, while Justin Fargas totaled a team-high 32 yards on eight carries...Larry Johnson, who the Bengals signed earlier this week after he was released by Kansas City, ran for five yards on two attempts...Ochocinco had 67 yards on four grabs...The Raiders fumbled three times and lost two.

Eagles Stay In NFC East Hunt With 24-20 Win Over Floundering Bears

2009-11-23T01:28:31Z

by Charles Rex Arbogast - AP

6 days ago: Philadelphia Eagles running back LeSean McCoy (29) races to the end zone past Chicago Bears safety Danieal Manning (38) to score the winning touchdown in the Eagles 24-20 win during an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

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The Bears fought back in the second half behind Jay Cutler but LaSean McCoy's 4th quarter TD run was the nail in the coffin on Sunday Night Football. The Eagles move to 6-4 while the Bears drop to 4-6.

Chicago, IL (Sports Network) - Rookie LeSean McCoy rushed for 99 yards and scored the game-winning touchdown late in the fourth quarter after the Eagles capitalized on a blocked field goal to pick up a much-needed 24-20 victory over the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.

McCoy was filling in for an injured Brian Westbrook, who missed his fourth game of the year. Donovan McNabb completed 23-of-32 passes for 244 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception for Philadelphia (6-4), which snapped a two- game skid. DeSean Jackson hauled in eight passes for 107 yards and a score for the victors, who are tied with the Giants for second place in the NFC East, a game behind Dallas.

"It was a must-win situation and as a team we needed to come out with that attitude," said McNabb. "I thought all week at practice guys had that attitude. I thought our effort was where it needed to be today."

Jay Cutler connected on 24-of-43 passes for 171 yards, a touchdown, and an interception for the Bears (4-6), who have dropped three straight games. Kahlil Bell rushed the ball four times for 81 yards. Kellen Davis had a TD catch in defeat as Chicago was dealt a severe blow to its playoff chances.

"We're running out of time," admitted Cutler. "The window is getting smaller and smaller. Each game becomes more important as we get down the line."

The Bears had a chance to build on their 20-17 lead early in the fourth. A McCoy fumble after a 17-yard run set Chicago up at the Philadelphia 37. The Bears lost two yards on three plays and brought Robbie Gould in to attempt a 48-yard field goal. However, Antonio Dixon blocked the field goal to stay within three points with 11:01 to play.

McNabb, a native of Chicago, then orchestrated Philadelphia's game-winning 11- play, 62-yard drive. The Eagles converted a pair of third downs on the march. Faced with a 3rd-and-1 from their own 47, McNabb got a fresh set of downs with a QB sneak. On a 3rd-and-6 from the Bears 20, McNabb connected with Jackson on a 10-yard pass play.

McCoy took the handoff on the next play and made his way to the outside where he found a hole on the left side. McCoy quickly hit the gap and scampered into the end zone for a 24-20 lead with 5:31 remaining.

After each team was forced to punt, the Bears got the ball back at their own 21 with 1:51 to go and no timeouts. After converting on fourth down, Cutler spiked the ball at his own 37 with 52 ticks left. Sean Jones then intercepted Cutler to seal the win for Philadelphia.

The Eagles marched right down the field on the opening possession of the game. On a 3rd-and-1, Michael Vick came into the game and rushed for 34 yards to the Chicago 32. However, Philadelphia's offense sputtered from there and David Akers drilled a 25-yard field goal for a 3-0 edge with 10:54 left.

After forcing the Bears to punt, the Eagles put together an eight-play, 76- yard scoring drive. Brent Celek's 21-yard reception highlighted the march that Jason Avant capped off with a 13-yard TD catch for a 10-0 lead with 2:48 to go. The Eagles used a no-huddle offense for a majority of the first quarter.

"We knew how important it was to start fast against this crew," said Eagles coach Andy Reid. "We wanted to try and do that the best we could. We thought utilizing the no-huddle would allow us to get into a rhythm and catch them off-guard."

Chicago bridged the first and second periods with an eight-play, 30-yard drive. Gould's 45-yard field goal made it 10-3 with 14:45 left until half.

Gould drilled a pair of 28-yard field goals later in the second to cut the Bears' deficit to 10-9 at the half. The Eagles turned the ball over twice in the second quarter.

Chicago took advantage of a short field in the early stages of the third to take the lead. A 16-yard punt from Sav Rocca combined with an ineligible man downfield penalty set up Chicago at its own 49.

A 23-yard pass to Earl Bennett on first down put the Bears at the Eagles 28. Chicago went three-and-out from there and was forced to settle for a 49-yard Gould field goal to go ahead 12-10 with 10:26 left.

Following a series of punts, the quick-strike Eagles needed just two plays to take the lead back. After Jeremy Maclin caught a 16-yard pass, McNabb faked a handoff before hitting Jackson from 48 yards out for a 17-12 margin with 5:53 to go in the third.

Chicago fought right back with a TD to take the lead again. On the sixth play of a 55-yard drive, Cutler lofted a perfect pass to Davis in the right corner of the end zone from 15 yards out. Matt Forte caught the two-point conversion in the end zone to make it 20-17 with 2:52 remaining.

McCoy had 20 carries...Westbrook did not play due to a concussion that he suffered against the Chargers last Sunday. He has missed three games this season because of a concussion that is expected to keep him out for some time...Maclin caught six passes for 64 yards...Forte rushed for 34 yards on 14 carries and hauled in four passes for 20 yards...Bears tight end Greg Olsen caught six passes for 42 yards. Bennett hauled in five passes for 57 yards...Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel left the game due to a stinger...Bell was playing in his first-career game...The Bears hold a 26-9-1 lead in the all-time series with Philadelphia, which dates back to 1933.

Via Sports Network

Flacco Picked Late As Colts Edge Ravens 17-15

2009-11-23T00:02:26Z

by Nick Wass - AP

6 days ago: Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco paces the sidelines in the closing moments of the Ravens' 17-15 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 22, 2009, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

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For more on the Colts and Ravens, check out SB Nation blogs Stampede Blue and Baltimore Beatdown.

(Sports Network) - An interception of Joe Flacco by Colts linebacker Gary Brackett snuffed out a deep Ravens drive late in the fourth quarter, as Indianapolis remained unbeaten by outlasting Baltimore, 17-15, at M&T Bank Stadium.

The Ravens (5-5), who had moved the ball consistently on Indianapolis (10-0) for much of the day but had to settle for five Billy Cundiff field goals, moved within range of a sixth Cundiff field goal when Flacco led them to the Colts' 14-yard line with 2:49 to play.

But on a 3rd-and-7 play, Brackett stepped in front of Flacco's short pass attempt to running back Ray Rice, and a subsequent first-down by the Colts, coupled with some questionable end-of-game management by the Ravens, helped Indy move to 10-0 for the second time in four seasons.

"It was a bad job going to Ray in that situation, but I didn't see [Brackett]," said Flacco. "That's a big play right there. We were in field goal range already, and we wanted to convert on third down, but at the same time, we've got to hold on to the ball, and score some points to take the lead. I did a bad job of doing that."

The Colts have won 19 consecutive regular-season games since a loss at Tennessee last October 27, the second-longest streak in NFL history behind the Patriots' 21-game run from 2006-08.

Just after the Brackett interception, a critical 3rd-and-1 completion from Peyton Manning to Reggie Wayne was followed by a quick timeout for Baltimore -- its second of the half -- but Ravens head coach John Harbaugh opted to challenge the first-down spot. Baltimore lost the challenge, and was charged with its third timeout, allowing the Colts to run additional time off the clock inside of two minutes to play.

"I was trying to flip the timeout into a challenge, and [the officials] wouldn't let me do it," said Harbaugh of the maneuver. "They were right in not letting me do it. I tried to get too much done in that situation. That was a bad job by me, in that situation."

The Ravens would get the ball back on a Colts punt with 28 seconds left, but an errant lateral attempt by Baltimore return man Ed Reed was recovered by the Colts' Freddy Keiaho to effectively end the contest.

The win marked the seventh consecutive time, including playoffs, that the Colts have won in their former home of Baltimore.

Manning completed 22-of-31 passes for 299 yards and a first-quarter touchdown to keep Indianapolis unbeaten, but also threw a pair of interceptions and finished with fewer than 300 yards for just the second time this season.

"We scored touchdowns, they scored field goals, that was kind of the difference," said Manning. "Gary's interception was huge. They probably would have gotten a field goal there, and then it was a matter of how much time would have been left."

The quarterback led the Colts to their only second-half points on a nine-play, 60-yard drive in the fourth quarter that culminated in a Matt Stover 25-yard field goal to provide the final 17-15 margin.

Stover, the Ravens' all-time leading scorer who was playing against his former team for the first time after not being re-signed in the offseason, made his lone field goal attempt and two point-after tries versus the franchise that employed him from 1996 to 2008.

"He's a true professional," said Colts head coach Jim Caldwell of Stover. "He's been through it and certainly he's been kicking for 18 years. Nothing really gets him upset. Not too high, not too low. He wasn't too overly excited, he just came in and did his job, and I'm certain he felt some kinship. These guys love him around here."

But Stover was upstaged in part by Cundiff, who was signed on Wednesday after the team released the erratic Steve Hauschka the day before, and made good on 5-of-6 field goal tries, though a critical 30-yard miss in the third quarter would be another strike against Baltimore's bid for a victory.

Flacco was 23-of-35 for 256 yards and the key interception, with six of the completions for 104 yards coming in the second half to wideout Derrick Mason, who starred with nine catches for 142 yards on the day.

The afternoon did not start well for Baltimore, as Indianapolis put the Ravens in an early hole.

Manning marched the Colts downfield on the team's first possession, with a three-yard touchdown pass to Dallas Clark capping off a seven-play, 87-yard drive. A 66-yard pass play down to the Baltimore six-yard line, on which Pierre Garcon beat cornerback Fabian Washington, helped set up the score.

Garcon would finish with six catches for a team-high 108 yards, marking his first career 100-yard outing.

But Baltimore would chip away after the Colts' initial score, managing Cundiff field goals on each of its next three drives, while forcing Manning into a pair of interceptions that sandwiched a punt, to take a 9-7 lead with 4:43 to play in the first-half.

Indianapolis took the lead just before halftime, as Joseph Addai plunged in from five yards out to cap an eight-play, 80-yard drive and give the Colts a 14-9 advantage with 1:23 to play.

Cundiff's fourth field goal of the first half, a 36-yarder, cut the lead to 14-12 at the break.

Indianapolis threatened to build on its advantage during its first drive of the third quarter, as Manning drove the offense deep into Baltimore territory.

But Colts tight end Tom Santi fumbled following a hit by Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis on the one-yard line, with the ball recovered by defensive lineman Dwan Edwards to snuff out a prime Indianapolis scoring chance.

The Ravens would eventually re-claim the lead, when Cundiff atoned for his lone miss of the day by connecting on a 20-yarder from 20 yards away to cap off a 15-play, 65-yard drive and give Baltimore a fleeting 15-14 advantage with 10:12 left.

Baltimore has now lost five of seven games since a 3-0 start.

With his lone catch of the game, which came on his first-quarter touchdown reception, Clark passed former Baltimore Colts legend John Mackey for the most receptions by a tight end in franchise history with 321 over his seven-year NFL career...Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs was inactive due to a knee injury suffered Monday night against the Browns, with Sunday ending the three-time Pro Bowl pick's consecutive games played streak at 105...Cundiff's five field goals tied a Ravens franchise record set by Stover on four occasions, most recently in an October 14, 2007 win over the St. Louis Rams...Washington suffered a sprained knee late in the fourth quarter and had to be helped from the field before reaching the Baltimore sideline and being carted off.