He might tone down his post-field goal celebrations a little when he recovers from surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament, but he isn't making any promises.

Gramatica, like his brother Martin of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, is an exuberant personality, and that's not going to change.

"It's not for show," Gramatica said Wednesday of his after-kick celebrations. "I'm not going to change the way I feel about field goals. I may not jump as high, but obviously if I kick a game-winner, my emotions go everywhere. When I stop feeling the way I do, I'm going to retire, because I'm doing it because I love it."

Surgery is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 2 in Miami, and then Gramatica will go to his family's home in Tampa for rehabilitation. Doctors have said recovery could take nine months.

Gramatica, a fourth-round draft pick out of South Florida, was hurt as he leaped into the air after kicking a 42-yard field goal early in Saturday's game against the New York Giants.

"I'm sad that it happened," coach Dave McGinnis said. "I was in disbelief when it happened, and now I'm sad. But he'll be back. He was really a good kicker and he'll be a good kicker again."

No one was near Gramatica when the left-footed kicker grabbed his right knee and toppled over in pain, a scene repeated time and again on ESPN and ridiculed on sports talk shows across the country.

Gramatica, the middle of three kicking brothers of Argentine parents, celebrates enthusiastically after the most routine of field goals, even more after his two game-winning kicks this season. He was named NFC special teams player of the week after the first game winner and shared it with his brother when both did it the following week.

"I've jumped playing soccer, playing football. You watch the first goal in World Cup this summer and see what they do," Gramatica said. "Mine will be nothing compared with what they do. They take their jersey off and throw it in the stands. It's the love of the sport. I love playing football."

Gramatica's teammates have voiced their support.

"The guy made a kick and he was happy he did it. That's who he is," said punter and field goal holder Scott Player. "It was a freak thing that happened."

Martin Gramatica came back from a torn ACL at Kansas State and had an All-America season, then went on to become a Pro Bowl kicker in the NFL. His injury occurred when he got a cleat stuck in the turf during practice.

His brother's comeback gives Bill Gramatica inspiration.

"There also are other kickers I'm going to call," he said. "I know Joe Nedney hurt his knee, so I'm going to call him for advice, and John Kasay.

"Kickers give each other advice and try to help each other out. "I have faith and I know I'm going to come back strong and be ready to go."

One kicker's misfortune is another's opportunity.

The Cardinals signed Cedric Oglesby to replace Gramatica for the last three games of the season. Oglesby, who played at South Carolina State, was in the San Diego Chargers' training camp this year and the Dallas Cowboys' camp last year.

"Most kickers don't make it on their first chance. The average time it takes to make it is three years," Oglesby said. "There are guys out there who can really kick who aren't getting chances right now. The guys that make it are the guys that just stay persistent. ..."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Arizona Republic reports: (WR) MarTay Jenkins did not practice Wednesday because of a sprained ankle. Jenkins is listed as questionable but he said Wednesday the ankle was extremely sore.

19 DEC: Arizona Republic: Rookie kicker Cedric Oglesby, who reported for tryouts with the Cardinals on Tuesday will be the their new kicker.

19 DEC: Arizona Republic on MarTay Jenkins: Cardinal (WR) Jenkins (ankle) could be limited in practice this week.

18 DEC: Arizona Republic: More proof that the Cardinals are the personification of Murphy's Law: The 14th week of their season has come down to auditioning place-kickers Cedrick Oglesby and Vitaly Pisetsky today. Oglesby and Pisetsky will try out today to replace (K) Bill Gramatica, who is lost for the season after tearing the ACL and medial meniscus cartilage in his right knee while celebrating a 42-yard field goal in the first quarter of Saturday's 17- 13 loss to the Giants. The extent of Gramatica's injury was learned after a MRI test Monday. He will undergo surgery and will be placed on injured reserve this week.

18 DEC: Arizona Republic on Jake Plummer: There has been speculation about the Cardinals opening up considerable salary-cap space after the season by releasing (QB) Plummer, but Coach Dave McGinnis says not to buy into it. Plummer will receive a $2.94 million signing bonus and $5.7 million base salary next season. If Plummer is released, he will count $2.94 million against the cap versus $8.66 million if he stays. McGinnis said, "Jake is operating this offense very well and he's comfortable. The more he operates it, the more comfortable he and our players will be. Jake is playing pretty darn well. You gotta have a QB. He's my QB and I ain't sharing him."

RB: M. Pittman, T. Jones, M. Shipp

FB: J. Makovicka, D. McKinley

WR: D. Boston, F. Sanders, M.T. Jenkins, A. Jackson, B. Gilmore

TE: T. Mitchell, S. Bush, L. Hart

PK: C. Oglesby

"It feels good," Anderson said. "I can't remember feeling this good at this point in my rehab last time."

Anderson tore the knee ligament Sept. 30 against Arizona, two seasons after tearing his right ACL. Anderson said he has been able to apply his experiences from the first rehab. For instance, he gained a full range of motion in the joint after three or four weeks; it took seven or eight weeks the first time.

Anderson wants to be ready to start offseason workouts with the team in March. ...

Other notes of interest this week. ...

Wide receivers Terance Mathis and Brian Finneran suffered slight injuries against the Colts. Mathis is probable with a tight back, and Finneran is probable with a minor shoulder injury.

In an article published last Friday, ESPN.com insider Len Pasquarelli wrote, "backup tailback Rodney Thomas to get increased action down the stretch. Second-year veteran Maurice Smith, who is trying to play with a slightly torn cartilage in his knee, found out the hard way that being a feature back in the NFL is a lot different from getting 20-25 carries a game at North Carolina A&T, his alma mater. In the last four games, Smith has carried 66 times for just 130 yards, less than two yards per attempt. Over that period, 34 of his 66 carries netted one yard or less and 41 were for two yards or fewer. He has just two rushes of more than 10 yards. Of course, it hasn't helped Smith or quarterback Chris Chandler that the team continues to juggle its offensive line, particularly the guards. Offensive line coach Pete Mangurian did a tremendous job early in the season with the line, especially in getting players like Bob Whitfield to drop weight, but the lack of true quality is catching up the unit. Beyond the fact Atlanta can't seem to run the ball very well right now, the quarterbacks have been sacked at the rate of once every 8.2 'dropbacks,' the worst ratio in the league."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Atlanta Journal Constitution on Jamal Anderson reports: (RB) Anderson, out for the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, said he will be running before the end of the season. "It feels good," Anderson said. "I can't remember feeling this good at this point in my rehab last time." Anderson tore the knee ligament Sept. 30 against Arizona, two seasons after tearing his right ACL. Anderson said he has been able to apply his experiences from the first rehab. For instance, he gained a full range of motion in the joint after three or four weeks; it took seven or eight weeks the first time. Anderson wants to be ready to start offseason workouts with the team in March.

20 DEC: Atlanta Journal Constitution on Bob Christian reports: (RB) Christian, a 5-foot-11, 232-pound fullback, is blocking as well as anyone at his position in the NFL. He has become an integral part of the Falcons' offense and has compiled several career highs as a result. Coach Dan Reeves once called Christian pound-for-pound, ''the best blocker I've ever seen.'' With Jamal Anderson out and Maurice Smith injured, Christian's role has changed. With three games remaining, he has career highs of 248 rushing yards, a 7.5- yard average. He ran for 66 yards at Green Bay and 78 yards at Carolina.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Maurice Smith reports: officially, the Falcons have listed (RB) Smith (knee/ankle) as probable for Week #15.

18 DEC: Augusta Chronicle on Michael Vick: The NFL's #1 draft (QB) Vick choice played two series in the season opening loss at SF and one series in a Week #2 win over Carolina. Vick later made a one-play appearance, running for a TD on third-and-goal at the 2 to give the Falcons a 24-13 lead. The season since has gone downhill for Vick. Since Week #4, Vick's time has been based solely on (QB) Chris Chandler's health. He can't remember the last time Reeves approached him before kickoff and told him he would play. Vick insisted, though, he feels no frustration.

RB: M. Smith, R. Thomas, T. Jervey

FB: B. Christian, G. Layne

WR: T. Mathis, T. Martin, S. Jefferson, B. Finneran, Q. McCord

TE: R. Kelly, A. Crumpler, B. Kozlowski

PK: J. Feely

The Ravens have an escape clause in Grbac's five-year, $30 million contract that would allow the team to terminate the deal after this season. But Billick said Grbac, the 12th-rated quarterback in the AFC, would be around for the long haul.

"He's my quarterback now, he's going to be quarterback next year and hopefully the year after that and the year after that," Billick said. "The only thing that will change that is if he chooses to A, retire -- which I doubt -- or B, he gets a career-ending injury."

Billick acknowledged that the Ravens have the ability to sever ties with Grbac after this season at a cost of only $5.5 million -- the price of his signing bonus and this year's salary. But Billick said the contract was drawn up in that fashion because of the salary cap, and insisted the Ravens have no intention of releasing the quarterback after this season.

"We can get out of anybody's contract if we're willing to take the appropriate hit," Billick said. "Those who chosen to isolate on Elvis Grbac's contract, with the intent to convey an idea that we have the latitude, that we're contemplating exercising that latitude, you're wrong."

Grbac was signed by the Ravens in March to replace Trent Dilfer, who led Baltimore to a Super Bowl victory last January by playing conservatively within a run-oriented attack. Grbac was supposed to spice up the passing game, but he's thrown 16 interceptions compared to 14 touchdowns, has been sacked 16 times and owns a meager 73.2 quarterback rating -- well below his career mark of 81.7.

"What's hard to do is separate his play from that of the entire team," Billick said. "Everybody can play a little bit better, but up to this point I'm pleased with Elvis' play. I have a great deal of faith in Elvis and believe he can indeed win for us, take us to the playoffs and win a Super Bowl."

Grbac is satisfied with his performance and pleased that Billick evidently feels that way, too.

"I never really doubted the coach's confidence in me," Grbac said.

His teammates are also behind Grbac, even though he's only 6-5 as a starter with Baltimore (he missed two games with a rib injury).

"I'm sure Elvis would have liked to have played better. We'd have all liked to have played better, or we wouldn't be 8-5," tight end Shannon Sharpe said. "I cannot put all the blame on Elvis. This is not all Elvis' fault. There are things we could have done to help Elvis, things we could have done to make Elvis feel he doesn't have to win this thing on his own.

"Brian says we're going to war with Elvis, so we're going to war with Elvis. I welcome that. ..."

However, CNN/SI insider Peter King wrote on Monday, "Grbac is doing everything in his power to get run out of Baltimore on a rail. He is nothing like he was a year ago in his 4,169-yard Kansas City season. And how about his turning away from Shannon Sharpe's sideline tirade in the second half? I said this on the Sunday morning CNN NFL Preview show, and I believe it now more than ever: Grbac holds his future squarely in his hands, and if he blows it over the next month, I could see the Ravens going after Drew Bledsoe in the offseason. ..."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Baltimore Sun on Terry Allen reports: (RB) Allen said he is ready for extended play against the Bengals. The Steelers game was Allen's first action since he fractured his hand. There is a good chance Allen could return to the starting lineup against Cincinnati and carry much of the rushing load, though coach Brian Billick declined to confirm that's his plan. "It was good to get him some hits the other day," Billick said. "You know my feeling about starters. We're going to have a lot of starters a lot of different ways, so yeah, he's a starter." Allen said he is capable of carrying 20 times. "I expect to see more time but I'm still not 100 percent."

20 DEC: Baltimore Sun reports: The top-ranked pass defense nine weeks ago, the Ravens have plummeted to No. 18 against the pass, becoming the weakest link in a once-vaunted defense. In the past nine quarters, teams have completed 61 percent of their passes against the Ravens, throwing for 719 yards and five touchdowns.

20 DEC: Washington Post on Elvis Grbac reports: Coach Billick today forcefully dismissed speculation that (QB) Grbac might not return next season. "He is my quarterback now," Billick said. "He's going to be my quarterback next year [and], hopefully, the year after that and the year after that. The only thing that will change that is if he retires, which I doubt, or, God forbid, he'd get a career-ending injury."

20 DEC: USA Today on Terry Allen: despite only three carries against Pittsburgh in his first game back since breaking his hand, Ravens (RB) Allen is expected to get the start this week. RB Moe Williams likely will be Allen's backup.

19 DEC: Baltimore Sun on Elvis Grbac reports: The Ravens have to consider whether to exercise (QB)Elvis Grbac's $6 million signing option in March, which virtually keeps him for another three years. Grbac, the AFC's 12th-rated passer, said he doesn't think about contract issues during the season. He signed a five-year, $30 million deal in March, but the contract could end after one year if the team doesn't exercise the option. "When you're in the season, you're a football player strictly and do everything you can do to help the team win," Grbac said.

18 DEC: Washington Times: there is a difference of opinion in the Ravens' ranks over the outlook for the rest of the season. (TE) Shannon Sharpe said, "The guys are just beginning to realize that it's time to panic now because we've truly backed ourselves into a corner and we have no one else to blame." But Coach Brian Billick said, "For us, we're in a great position. We've got to be very satisfied that we are in control of our destiny. But that I mean we are in control of our playoff picture." The Ravens (8-5) are tied with the Jets for the fifth playoff spot, a half-game behind New England (9-5).

18 DEC: Baltimore Sun on Jamal Lewis: Ravens (RB) Lewis was reinstated by the NFL Monday after serving a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance and alcohol abuse policy. Lewis, who is on injured reserve after blowing out his left knee this summer, returned to the Ravens' Owings Mills practice facility to resume his rehab. During his suspension, the team could not have any contact with Lewis but kept track of his recovery through his agent, Mitch Frankel. "My teammates know I messed up and I wouldn't do anything else to hurt them," Lewis said.

18 DEC: Baltimore Sun: Ravens (RB) Moe Williams, (RB) Terry Allen and (FB) Obafemi Ayanbadejo combined for 10 carries for 40 yards Sunday night. Ravens Coach Brian Billick is leaning toward featuring one back this week, presumably Allen, who had missed the previous three games with a hand injury. "We'll continue a rotation, to a degree," Billick said. "It was good to get Terry some good licks in there. I'd like to see Terry back involved with Moe. Obafemi had some real nice runs for us. We'd like to get one guy cranked up to see if we can focus on [him], particularly by the nature of the team we are playing. ... Clearly, we have to get that going. The last couple of weeks, it's been pretty good for us. We're trying real hard to have that semblance of balance needed to win a game."

RB: T. Allen, M. Williams, O. Ayanbadejo, J. Brookins

FB: S. Gash, O. Ayanbadejo

WR: Q. Ismail, T. Taylor, B. Stokely, J. Lewis, P. Johnson

TE: S. Sharpe, T. Heap, J. Jones

PK: M. Stover

While tests revealed no structural damage, coach Gregg Williams said on Wednesday that he felt it best to rest Henry this week.

Henry was hurt in the second quarter of Sunday's 12-9 overtime loss to New England. After crashing into the pile, Henry got tangled up in a number of bodies, including Patriots cornerback Ty Law, who fell on Henry's leg.

Before leaving the game, the second-round draft pick had become the seventh Bills rookie to surpass the 700-yard rushing plateau with 729 yards. Averaging 3.4 yards a carry, he also leads the team with four rushing touchdowns.

Sparingly used third-year veteran Shawn Bryson, who has 88 yards rushing on 24 carries, will take over for Henry as the starter.

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: 4for4 on Peerless Price reports: Coach Gregg Williams told reporters that (WR) Price (ankle) was held out of practice yesterday to give his ankle more time to heal.

20 DEC: Rochester Democrat&Chronicle on Shawn Bryson reports: Bills (RB) Bryson should have plenty of incentive Sunday filling in for injured rookie Travis Henry. His future in Buffalo could be on the line and this might be his last chance to showcase himself to other teams.

20 DEC: Rochester Democrat&Chronicle on Peerless Price reports: (WR) Price (ankle) did not practice yesterday.

20 DEC: Rochester Democrat&Chronicle on Travis Henry reports: (RB) Henry will sit. Bills coach Gregg Williams confirmed that Travis has a sprained knee and he will not play Sunday against the Falcons. "The test results on Travis came back that it's just a knee sprain," Williams said. "We are going to go ahead and take the safe side and hold him out this week." Williams would not estimate when Henry would return, only to say it would be a week-to-week evaluation. "We'll see how fast he recovers," Williams said. Shawn Bryson will start at HB while Sammy Morris will also see playing time.

20 DEC: WGR Radio on Rob Johnson: Bills (QB) Johnson's rehab is coming along well. He won't be back in the practice setting yet, but will move on in the rehab process of starting to throw lightly this week

20 DEC: 4for4 on Peerless Price reports: officially, the Bills have listed (WR) Price (ankle) as questionable for Week #15.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Travis Henry reports: as we learned early today, from sources in Florida close to Henry, the rookie has been ruled out for Week #15 due to his knee problem.

19 DEC: Buffalo News on Travis Henry: Bills (RB) Henry will miss Sunday's game at Atlanta with a sprained right knee. While tests revealed no structural damage, Coach Gregg Williams said today that he felt it best to rest Henry this week. (RB) Shawn Bryson will start in his absence.

18 DEC: Rochester Democrat&Chronicle on Travis Henry: Coach Gregg Williams was unsure yesterday what (RB) Henry's availability would be for Sunday's game in Atlanta. Henry suffered a twisted knee in the third quarter of the loss to New England. Williams said, "We really don't know more than we did yesterday. He's in the process of getting tested right now, and they're doing more tests. It's classified as a knee sprain. We're encouraged that we saw him walk off the field and after the ballgame, too, but we won't know the significance until we get all the tests in."

18 DEC: Buffalo News on Peerless Price: Bills (WR) Price is listed as day-to-day after twisting his right ankle and knee on Sunday.

RB: S. Bryson, S. Morris, T. Henry

FB: L. Centers, P. Crosby

WR: E. Moulds, P. Price, R. Germany, J. McDaniel, A. Black

TE: J. Riemersma, S. Jackson, S. Osborne

PK: S. Graham

Tight end Wesley Walls and wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad are listed as questionable for Sunday's game against St. Louis. Earlier in the week, coach George Seifert said both players could be ready.

But Seifert didn't sound as optimistic Wednesday. Walls, who has an ankle injury, took part in some drills. Muhammad, who has turf toe, did not practice.

"I'm not going to force the issue in either case," Seifert said. "I would be a little more apprehensive (than earlier in the week)."

If Muhammad can't play, Isaac Byrd likely would be the starter. Kris Mangum is the top backup to Walls.

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Charlotte Observer: (TE) Wesley Walls, who has an ankle injury, took part in some drills Wednesday. "I'm not going to force the issue in either case," Seifert said. "I would be a little more apprehensive (than earlier in the week)." Kris Mangum is the top backup to Walls.

20 DEC: Charlotte Observer: (WR) Muhsin Muhammad is questionable for Sunday's game against St. Louis. Earlier in the week, coach George Seifert said he would be ready. But Seifert didn't sound as optimistic Wednesday. Muhammad, who has turf toe, did not practice. If Muhammad can't play, Isaac Byrd likely would be the starter.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Wesley Walls reports: officially, the Panthers have listed (TE) Walls (ankle) as questionable for Week #15.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Muhsin Muhammad reports: officially, the Panthers have listed (WR) Muhammad (toe) as questionable for Week #15.

18 DEC: 4for4 on Wesley Walls: Panthers (TE) Walls (ankle) was limited in practice yesterday. He remains somewhat questionable but Coach Seifert has indicated that they expect Walls will be able to play in Week #15.

18 DEC: 4for4 on Muhsin Muhammad: early word this week from Carolina is (WR) Muhammad will play this weekend. However, he was held out of practice yesterday.

RB: R. Huntley, N. Goings, B. Hoover

FB: B. Hoover, C. Hetherington

WR: M. Muhammad, D. Hayes, I. Byrd, P. Jeffers, S. Smith, K. Hankton

TE: W. Walls, K. Mangum, L. Broughton, C. Crawford

PK: J. Kasay

It's not the way he's been treated in Chicago that's caused Matthews to consider retirement, although some other players in his situation might have considered the possibility long ago.

"I know my wife (Stephanie) is kind of tired of living in a bunch of different areas because my daughter (Brooke) has to go to school in two different places," said Matthews, who lives in Florida but has brought his wife, daughter and young son Luke to Chicago for the last two football seasons.

Next year promises to be even rougher for the Matthews family, as the Bears will play their home games 21/2 hours south of the city, in Champaign.

"Dealing with Champaign is going to be a real pain for everybody involved. We'll see what happens for next year," he said. "They like it here at times, but it's just hard when my kids are used to Florida. They can go swimming every day.

"I'm not saying I'm going to retire, but my wife wants me to just so we can finally live in one place."

Matthews said he could walk away from the game even though this season he's making what many people would consider a salary enough for 10 years - $600,000.

"This is my ninth year," he said. "An average person in the NFL lasts maybe two years. Obviously, my career hasn't gone the way that I would like, but I've been blessed in a lot of different ways.

"We're just going to wait and see at the end of the year what happens and go from there."

It's ironic, but Matthews might be gaining popularity in the eyes of Bears fans these days, even as he lives the life of a backup. With the Bears' passing attack managing only 360 yards total in three weeks behind starting QB Jim Miller, it seems that public opinion has shifted.

"Everybody loves the backup quarterback," Matthews said.

Coach Dick Jauron said after last Sunday's loss to Green Bay that he never considered replacing Miller with Matthews. Offensive coordinator John Shoop appeared almost shocked this past week that anyone would mention the possibility.

"I have a lot of confidence in Jim and I have not thought of that," Shoop said. "And Dick has not mentioned it to me."

Matthews isn't dwelling on any ground swell of support from fans.

"I don't really worry about what people on the outside say," he said. "When Jim came in and played well, I was happy for him. I would love to get in some more games, but I don't know if that's going to happen or not."

Besides, he added, "Most of Chicago wanted Jim to play when I was playing."

Miller's advantage is a stronger throwing arm. But his yards-per-pass-attempt average has shrunk to 5.67 (in 282 attempts). Matthews, who began the season as the Bears' starter, had an average of 5.38 (in 129 attempts).

Matthews does believe he got treated differently than Miller -- and probably most other players -- when he lost his job after suffering an injury.

After Matthews pulled rib muscles against Minnesota in the season's second game, Miller took over and became the starter. When Matthews was well enough to play, he had lost the starting job to Miller.

However, when Miller suffered a hip pointer and Matthews came on to lead the Bears to two comeback wins, over San Francisco and Cleveland, it still was not enough to let Matthews reclaim the starting job. Miller was back on the field when he was deemed healthy enough to play.

"That's not my decision," Matthews said. "I don't know who makes that decision. The same thing happened two years ago and they never let me back in there. They decided to go with Jim, and I have to live with it."

The situation in 1999 was different, since the team was grooming Cade McNown to be the quarterback of the future. It turned out that McNown's future became holding clipboards for Dave Wannstedt in Miami.

Either Matthews or Danny Wuerffel would appear to be the odd man out for next season if the Bears bring in former Stanford quarterback Chad Hutchinson. General manager Jerry Angelo said Thursday that Hutchinson still hasn't made a formal commitment to leave the St. Louis Cardinals baseball organization and play football.

It's a tenuous situation at best. Matthews remembers the purging of some of his veteran teammates just prior to the start of the regular season.

"I don't know what they're going to do," Matthews said. "I'm still under contract for next year. But that means absolutely nothing."

With backup quarterbacks, this much is certain: The future is never certain.

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Chicago Sun Times on Anthony Thomas reports: he was selected as the NFC offensive player of the week for his 173-yard effort against the Bucs. He joined Walter Payton and Gale Sayers as the only backs in Bears team history to gain more than 170 yards twice in a season.

20 DEC: Chicago Sun Times on Fred Baxter reports: he has found a team that appreciates all of his skills. Forgotten as a pass receiver for most of his eight seasons with the New York Jets, Baxter is flashing his versatility as a tight end for the Bears. He made an acrobatic 18-yard touchdown catch between two Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in a 27-3 victory at Soldier Field. His 19 receptions are the second- most in his career and just eight shy of his best season in 1997.

19 DEC: Chicago Tribune reports: Responding to continuing speculation about his uncertain future in Chicago, Bears coach Dick Jauron steadfastly stuck to his week-by-week philosophy on Monday, saying only, "Washington is our next opponent and I'm not concerned about anything else." If week-by-week is what Jauron likes, general manager Jerry Angelo appears ready and willing to give it to him. Despite clinching the team's first playoff berth since 1994 with a shocking 10 wins in 13 games, Jauron could be coaching the Bears next season as a lame duck, fulfilling the final year of his contract.

19 DEC: Chicago Sun Times on Jim Miller: (QB) Miller's agent referred to his client as Dick Jauron Jr. yesterday, a reference to the uncertainty of his future with the Bears. Miller is taking the same approach as Jauron and maintaining focus on the stretch ahead. To date, Miller has completed 58 percent of his passes for 1,790 yards, 10 TDs and 10 interceptions. They are not Pro Bowl numbers, but he has been sacked only nine times and excels at what Angelo calls "managing the system."

RB: A. Thomas, J. Allen, A. Denson, L. Johnson

FB: D. Shelton, S. Pritchard

WR: M. Booker, D. White, D. Terrell, D. Bates

TE: F. Baxter, J. Davis, D. Lyman

PK: P. Edinger

A two-year veteran and the team's seventh-round pick in the 1999 draft, Covington was released by the Bengals this summer, and despite several inquiries did not sign with another team. He has been at home in California, staying in shape and throwing regularly, and hoping to catch on with a team for training camp in 2002.

Covington, 25, is expected to practice Thursday with the team and, depending on the status of Jon Kitna, there is actually a possibility he could start Sunday's game at Baltimore.

Kitna has a sprained finger on his throwing hand and demonstrated little arm strength in practice on Wednesday. Backup Scott Mitchell, who might have earned the start this week, strained his rib cage in practice and might miss the rest of the season. Third-year veteran and former No. 1 pick Akili Smith, who started last week's game, was placed on injured reserve for the year with a torn hamstring sustained in that contest.

The Bengals earlier this week signed to the practice squad quarterback Kevin Thompson, a former Penn State star who was in camp with the Cleveland Browns this summer, but he is not familiar with the offense and probably won't be elevated to the active roster. When Mitchell left the field Wednesday, the emergency call went out to Covington, who complained in preseason that he was not afforded a legitimate chance to make the roster.

The former Miami standout has appeared in three games, all in relief, and completed four of five passes for 23 yards, with no touchdown passes and no interceptions. ...

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer on Scott Mitchell reports: The day after Akili Smith was lost for the season with a torn hamstring, Scott Mitchell strained his right rib cage during Wednesday's practice and is doubtful for Sunday's game at Baltimore, leaving the team with just one healthy quarterback: Kevin Thompson, who has taken one NFL snap.

20 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer on Jon Kitna reports: he has a strained middle finger on his throwing hand. Kitna and backup QB Thompson shared the snaps during practice, and Kitna is expected to start Sunday, although LeBeau has made no formal announcement.

19 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer: The Bengals signed two players to their practice squad - (QB) Kevin Thompson and (WR) Khori Ivy. Thompson's signing means the Bengals likely won't try to re-sign former backup Scott Covington and will play out the season with starter Jon Kitna and Scott Mitchell, with (WR) Peter Warrick as the emergency third QB. Thompson (6- 5, 236) played at Penn State before signing as a rookie free agent with the Browns in April 2000.

19 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer on Akili Smith: After suffering a torn hamstring Sunday in his only start of the season, (QB) Smith was placed on injured reserve Tuesday. He might undergo surgery to reattach the muscle group to the bone. Bengals trainer Paul Sparling said Smith is looking at a six-month rehabilitation even without surgery. Smith said he is determined to return to Cincinnati and claim the starter's job.

19 DEC: Bengals.com on Akili Smith: there was still no word Tuesday if (QB) Smith is going to have surgery on his torn left hamstring, but the Bengals put him on injured reserve for the rest of the season.

18 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals Coach Dick LeBeau is considering signing a third QB, possibly Scott Covington. If the Bengals don't sign a #3 QB, (WR) Peter Warrick would serve as an emergency QB.

18 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer: Bengals Coach Dick LeBeau said he isn't sure who will start Sunday at Baltimore, starting (QB) Jon Kitna (strained finger ligament) or backup (QB) Scott Mitchell. "We'll look at that as we go through the week," said LeBeau. "If I think there's a better chance for us to win with Scott, Scott would start."

18 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer on Corey Dillon: (RB) Dillon's dislocated finger is improved.

18 DEC: Cincinnati Enquirer on Akili Smith: For about 22 minutes Sunday at the Meadowlands, where the Bengals lost 15-14 to the Jets, Cincinnati's QB question appeared to clear for the rest of the season. But in the instant it took for Smith's left hamstring to tear and end his year, QB again became a murky place. Smith was declared out for the season Monday with a hamstring injury so severe it might require surgery to re-attach the muscle group to the bone. Trainer Paul Sparling said, "It appears surgery is a likely option."

RB: C. Dillon, B. Bennett, C. Keaton, R. Johnson

FB: L. Neal, N. Williams

WR: D. Scott, P. Warrick, C. Johnson, R. Dugans, D. Farmer, T.J. Houshmandzadeh

TE: K. McMullen, N. Williams

PK: N. Rackers

20 DEC: Clevelandbrowns.com on James Jackson: Browns (RB) Jackson (ankle) is listed as out of Sunday's game at Green Bay.

20 DEC: 4for4 on James Jackson reports: as expected the Browns have ruled (RB) Jackson (ankle) out for Week #15.

19 DEC: Milwaukee Journal reports: Aaron Shea (6-4, 244), the Browns #1 H-back, is questionable with a shoulder injury.

19 DEC: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on James Jackson reports: their top running back, suffered what looks like a season-ending ankle injury Sunday in a 15-10 loss to the Jaguars. With Jackson, a low-grade starter, out with an ankle injury, the burden becomes too much for scatback Jamel White (5-9, 208) and rookie free agent Ben Gay (6-1, 227).

18 DEC: Cleveland Plain Dealer on James Jackson: Browns Coach Butch Davis indicated that (RB) Jackson (sprained ankle) could be done for all or most of the season. "It's disappointing because I know how talented this kid is," he said. "He's capable of rushing for 1,000 yards in this league. Had he been able to stay healthy, certainly some of our running game problems would not be as significant as they were." Davis had planned to use Jackson and third-down (RB) Jamel White together in the backfield for about 25 to 30 plays against the Jaguars, but Jackson was injured in the first quarter.

RB: J. White, B. Gay, C. Fair

FB: A. Shea

WR: K. Johnson, Q. Morgan, D. Northcutt, J. Dawson, A. King

TE: O.J. Santiago, A. Shea, J. Moreland

PK: P. Dawson

"It will be fine," Leaf said Thursday. "I'll come back to training camp next year, and we'll have a good competition."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

18 DEC: Dallas Morning News on Emmitt Smith: Cowboys (RB) Smith's run of 10 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, tying him with Barry Sanders for the NFL record, probably ended on Sunday at Seattle. In a curious bit of strategy by OC Jack Reilly, Smith ran only once in the final 24 minutes had 12 carries for 39 yards in the loss. With three games remaining, Smith needs 310 yards to reach 1,000. His most productive three-game stretch this season produced only 203 yards. If the streak ends, Smith will feel the loss.

17 DEC: 4for4 on Michael Wiley reports: the Cowboys speedy little scat- back injured his hip yesterday playing in a steady rain at Seattle. His status is uncertain at this time.

RB: E. Smith, T. Hambrick, M. Wiley

FB: T. Hambrick, J.J. Huggins

WR: J. Galloway, R. Ismail, R. Swinton, D. Chiaverini, K. Rambo, R. Williams

TE: J. Harris, M. Lucky, J.J. Huggins, M. Solwold

PK: J. Hilbert

The former Stanford standout was a sixth-round choice of the Washington Redskins in the 2000 draft, spent his entire rookie season on the roster, but was waived this summer. Husak has drawn interest throughout the season, and auditioned for a few teams, but most were interested in him for the 2002 campaign.

Contract details were not immediately available, but it is likely Husak will sign a one-year deal for the second-year veteran minimum of $298,000, pro-rated over the balance of the season.

Backup quarterback Gus Frerotte, who suffered a third-degree separation of his right shoulder on a 4-yard touchdown run in the defeat Sunday at Kansas City, will be placed on injured reserve, a move that officially ends his season. Starter Brian Griese, who did not play against the Chiefs because of a concussion, is expected back for the Broncos' game on Dec. 30.

Denver has a bye this week, which will provide Husak a chance to at least gain a modicum of familiarity with the Broncos offense, and serve as the No. 3 quarterback the rest of the year. The team's only healthy quarterback right now is second-year pro Jarius Jackson.

Husak, 23, appeared in two games for the Redskins in 2000. He completed both of his pass attempts, each to fullback Larry Centers, for minus-2 yards. He also had two rush attempts for minus-1 yard.

The former Washington staff liked his potential, and felt he was a bright player with a decent arm and good awareness, but new coach Marty Schottenheimer and his assistants apparently did not share that assessment. When the Redskins selected Sage Rosenfels in the fourth round this year, it meant they did not have room for two developmental-type quarterbacks, and Husak was the loser in the numbers game.

Also of interest. ...

Jason Elam is preparing for a future without the Denver Broncos, just in case.

The kicker is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent when the season ends. Although he isn't sure what the future holds, he has sold his Denver-area home and discussed the idea of working in different cities with his wife.

"My friends keep asking me: 'What are you going to do? You're a free agent -- here or not?"' Elam said. "I honestly don't know."

Broncos officials plan to sit down with the 31-year-old Elam shortly after the season and hammer out a new long-term extension to keep him in Denver through the end of his career.

"With the way he's kicking, he has proven to be an extremely reliable guy. We know what we've got. I sure wouldn't want some of the other guys out there," Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said.

Elam said, "I think I'd be a bit more optimistic if they would have talked to us a little bit. But it has just seemed like there's no interest. Which is fine.

"I think Mike Shanahan's doing the best job he can to put together the best team he can. I feel like I'm going to have a job somewhere, and I'm not too worried about it."

Elam leads the league in scoring this season. He earned $950,000 in base salary this past season.

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

19 DEC: Denver Post on Eddie McCaffrey reports: "In hindsight, the Eddie McCaffrey injury was probably as big a season-ending injury as I've ever been associated with," said Broncos Owner Pat Bowlen. Told there was no assurances the 33-year- old McCaffrey would be back, Bowlen said: "That's true. But I happen to think he will (return), because I see him down here every day. Maybe he's going to be a half a step slower, maybe he isn't. I don't know. But I think Eddie has got a little more football in him yet. And maybe the good news is we've got some young guys who at least had a chance to play. I think there are some top-notch receivers in that group."

19 DEC: Rocky Mountain News: Third string (QB) Jarius Jackson, who entered Sunday's game when backup (QB) Gus Frerotte's shoulder was separated, will likely will go from the fire back to bench-warmer on Dec. 30 when the Broncos face AFC West-rival Oakland. (QB) Brian Griese, who missed Sunday's game because of the lingering effects of a concussion, is expected back in the starting lineup. And Griese's six- year, $39 million contract means he is Denver's QB of the future as well. But Jackson has his eyes set on the #2 job next season.

18 DEC: Rocky Mountain News on Terrell Davis: Coach Mike Shanahan had expected a high-octane performance Sunday from (RB) Terrell Davis. Instead, he felt like a car owner who had mistakenly bought low-octane fuel. Shanahan said, "He looked like he was more sluggish than he has been. I'm not sure what the reason was. But looking at the film, he wasn't the same as he was for the last two weeks." Davis, who had a 21-carry, 70-yard performance, admitted as much, saying he experienced a tough day.

18 DEC: Boulder News on Brian Griese: Broncos Coach Shanahan did say he thought Griese, the starting QB for the first 13 games of the season, would be ready to go against the Raiders after sitting out Sunday's loss recovering from the after-effects of a concussion. That would make Jarious Jackson the #2 QB for the final two games of the season. Shanahan said, "I thought he (Jackson) did a good job. You could see his athletic ability. He made some plays most people can't make. But it's always tough coming in and not getting any reps, trying to run a game plan. But what he did, I thought he did well."

18 DEC: Rocky Mountain News on Gus Frerotte: Coach Mike Shanahan said (QB) Frerotte will wait to make a decision on whether to undergo surgery until after he gets a second medical opinion. Shanahan said, "The chances are he will need surgery. It's very similar to what Brian went through, so it will be about the same recovery time."

20 DEC: Pittsburgh Tribune on Mike McMahon: with the Lions on tap for Sunday, the Steelers say they respect their rookie (QB), McMahon - who grew up a die-hard Steelers fan and graduated from North Allegheny in 1997. McMahon has completed 41 of 87 passes for 533 yards, one TD, and no interceptions so far this season. He has also run 25 times for 124 yards and a TD. (S) Lee Flowers said, "We've got the utmost respect for him because he's definitely better than some of these starting QBs we've played against."

20 DEC: Detroit Free Press: (RB) James Stewart practiced (Wednesday) despite his hip pointer and Coach Mornhinweg hopes he also will play at Pittsburgh.

20 DEC: Detroit Free Press: Bert Emanuel practiced Wednesday for the first time in a month. And then he went home to wait. "It's going to come down to how the leg feels in the morning, and how it progresses throughout the week," he said. If his left knee feels good -- little or no pain or swelling -- he very likely will be one of the wide receivers in the Lions' game Sunday at Pittsburgh.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Larry Foster reports: the Lions have officially listed (WR) Foster as questionable (sore thigh) for this weekend.

19 DEC: Detroit Free Press on Cory Schlesinger reports: Coach Mornhinweg commended running back James Stewart for "taking a shot to the hip to come back and play" after being injured for four games. He also said fullback Cory Schlesinger, who did a terrific job blocking against the Vikings, is now one of the best in the league.

19 DEC: Michigan Live on Bert Emanuel: Lions (WR) Emanuel (knee) will return to practice this week and could play in Sunday's game.

19 DEC: Michigan Live on Larry Foster: Lions (WR) Foster (bruised knee) is listed as questionable against the Steelers this week.

19 DEC: Michigan Live on James Stewart: Lions (RB) Stewart (hip) is expected to play against the Steelers this week.

18 DEC: Detroit News on Mike McMahon: After Sunday's win, Coach Marty Mornhinweg gave his players yesterday and today off. Before doing so, however, Mornhinweg had a talk with rookie (QB) McMahon. Mornhinweg commented later, "I want him to think he's got it all figured out, yes, but not to the point where he thinks he's arrived. It's because he hasn't. He's going through a learning process now."

18 DEC: Detroit News on Bert Emanuel: Lions (WR) Emanuel, out for four games because of a sprained left knee, probably will return to practice Wednesday, Mornhinweg said.

18 DEC: Detroit News on Larry Foster: Lions (WR) Foster's bruised left knee won't be known until Wednesday.

18 DEC: Detroit News on James Stewart: Lions (RB) Stewart, who finished Sunday's game despite suffering a hip pointer in the first half, might not be hurt as badly as first thought. "He's feeling pretty good and getting a workout in," Coach Marty Mornhinweg said.

RB: J. Stewart, R. Droughns, L. Warren, A. Cason,

FB: C. Schlesinger, B. Olivo, S. Trejo

WR: J. Morton, B. Emanuel, S. Anderson, L. Foster, D. Howard

TE: D. Sloan, S. Trejo, B. Banta

PK: J. Hanson

The former Pro Bowl starter concluded last season with his best Terry Glenn impersonation and a suspension, and it seemed like Green Bay wasn't big enough for him or his new coach, Mike Sherman.

"My relationship with Coach Sherman was awful," Freeman said. "We didn't get along, I don't think I ever really took the time to listen to his message.

"When I got suspended for the last game last year, I knew I needed to take a good hard look at my decision-making process. After that suspension, I realized the only way for me to make it this year is to start believing in Coach because last year I didn't. I didn't believe in some of his things. We seemed to be on two different wavelengths.

"At one point this offseason, I said to myself that I needed to learn to deal with this man. If we didn't want to be around each other, he could get me out of here but I couldn't get him out of there."

So what did he do to put his career back on track? Freeman went for some group therapy.

The embattled wide receiver began secretly meeting with school children, opening up to them about his suspect decision-making process and asking them for opinions and their examples of their own challenges or adversities.

"I started spending my off days doing this in Milwaukee and in Green Bay with kids to use the decisions I've made, the good and bad ones, to help them with the trials and tribulations of life," said Freeman.

"I've tried to use what I did to help them but they've helped me, too. It's been great for both of us because I've come completely clean with them. You can't lie to kids, they'll cut right through you. I've made too many wrong decisions and I've learned from those decisions. These kids will make mistakes, too, but it's how they learn from them that will mold their lives. I've had as much adversity as anyone else and I never thought I'd get over the hump."

Freeman doesn't really seem to care who believes his turnaround as long as his young audience gives him their complete attention.

"I get one period in each school, which is usually about 50 minutes, and it's a completely open and honest discussion," said Freeman. "I told them about me and Coach Sherman and related it to their own teachers. I told them we didn't get along but I knew we had to for the success of the rest of the team. I told them, 'You, as a student, may or may not get along with your teacher but you have to believe in him or her because it's in the best interest of your future.' I didn't want to deal with this man but I knew I had to learn to or else my decisions would have led me out of there."

Last season, Freeman was considered a cheeseball, not a beloved Cheesehead. He discussed the line of thinking that vilified him in the court of public opinion. He has opened up with admissions of guilt to those who might still look at him through eyes of innocence.

"I wanted to win back the fans, I wanted to win back the coach's trust and the players' trust," Freeman said. "It's been a hard road but I was the one who made it hard. Now I'm acting on what I've learned.

"Last year when we had our bye week, we didn't need to be back until 1 o'clock Monday," he recalls with more than a hint of embarrassment. I took a Monday flight but it ended up being delayed. I missed my connecting flight and was late and as a result was suspended for one game and fined $10,000. That was a mistake, a really bad decision.

"So what did I do this year when our bye came? This year I planned my travel to make sure I came back on Sunday. If something went wrong at least I had time to make an adjustment on the move. It's all about acting on which decision is right and which is wrong and those will shape life."

Freeman's little therapists/pupils were asked to do more than simply listen.

The starting wide out in the 1998 Pro Bowl and consensus All-Pro required that these middle school children write a one-page essay about learning from a mistake that they made. Ten from each school are then awarded with tickets to either the Packers-Browns game on Dec. 23 or Vikings-Packers on Dec. 30.

"I call it the B Mor Free (Facing Real-Challenges and Exemplifying Excellence) program in order to alert the kids that there will be trials and tribulations and what it all bears down to is you loving and believing in yourself and having the confidence to stand up and make the correct decisions, even in the face of peer pressure or adversity," said Freeman, who will send more than 100 children to pro sporting events this year.

"I've made the wrong decisions, many of them, and I've learned from those decisions. These kids are going to make mistakes, too, but it's how they learn from those mistakes that will alter their lives."

Freeman's therapy sessions have not only unlocked him from the coach's doghouse this year, he is once again a feared offensive threat. The former Virginia Tech star has teamed with running back Ahman Green and All-World quarterback Brett Favre this year to give the Packers one of the most dangerous "triplets" in the NFL.

Freeman has helped his team's cause by hauling in a touchdown catch in four of their past six games. Two weeks ago he dropped 104 yards on the Jaguars, and earlier this season vs. the vaunted Ravens he ran rampant with nine catches for 138 yards and a score.

But had Freeman taken the same path he did last year, the receiver's road would have been much, much bumpier.

"This year I've tried to get to know who he is and at the same time try to keep to myself. I'm not out partying during all that down time, I'm not out going to bars after a game. I had to change how I used my off time; I had to make that decision. It was embarrassing last year and shameful to me. I was not only battling my coach but I was also battling my teammates. I've just decided that I needed to make better decisions."

The Packers shot out of the gate with a 3-0 record and now own a share of the NFC Central lead with a surprising 9-3 slate. Slowly, Favre and Co. have garnered more support as Sherman has returned them to respectability.

"I needed to start listening to him and to start doing things that wouldn't embarrass me anymore," he said. "I just started making better decisions and started trusting what Coach Sherman was trying to teach.

"Our relationship is so much better. He's told me how proud he is of me and the changes I made. He tells me how proud he is of the way I work now, the way I practice and the example I'm setting. I completely trust him now and it's helped the whole team."

Unlike so many other controversial athletes who claim they've completely changed after off-field problems, Freeman makes no such contention. In fact, he admits he's only taken the first step in revamping and preserving a career in Green Bay. A career Freeman hopes he saved before it was too late.

"I wouldn't say I've grown up, but I am making better decisions," said Freeman. "I want to grow up and the best way is to keep making better choices."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Milwaukee Journal on Ahman Green: Packers (RB) Green sat out the final portion of practice for rest, according to the Packers.

20 DEC: Milwaukee Journal on Bubba Franks: Packers (TE) Franks (ankle) sat out practice Wednesday and is listed as probable.

19 DEC: Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Bill Schroeder reports: The Packers have 20 of 24 starters (including their kickers) under contract for next season. Current starters eligible for unrestricted free agency are wide receiver Bill Schroeder, guard Mike Wahle, fullback William Henderson and nose tackle Gilbert Brown. The Packers are not likely to keep them all, but losing any of them would not be an insurmountable problem by any means.

RB: A. Green, D. Levens, H. Goodman

FB: W. Henderson

WR: B. Schroeder, A. Freeman, C. Bradford, D. Driver, C. Lee, R. Ferguson

TE: B. Franks, D. Martin, T. Davis

PK: R. Longwell

20 DEC: Colts.com: (K) Mike Vanderjagt (knee) listed as probable, likely will play this week.

20 DEC: Colts.com on Trevor Insley: (WR) Insley (knee) listed as probable, likely will play.

20 DEC: Colts.com on Terrence Wilkins: (WR) Wilkins is listed as doubtful on the injury report with a hamstring injury that kept him out of the Falcons game Sunday. Mora said Wilkins likely won't play.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Terrence Wilkins reports: he's doubtful for Week #15 due to his nagging hamstring problem.

19 DEC: Colts.com on Terrence Wilkins: (WR) Wilkins (hamstring) will be listed as doubtful for this week.

RB: D. Rhodes, K. McDougal, S. Stith

FB: J. Finn, W. Ours

WR: M. Harrison, R. Wayne, T. Insley, T. Simmons, T. Wilkins

TE: K. Dilger, M. Pollard, J.D. Davenport, J. Snow

PK: M. Vanderjagt

19 DEC: Florida Times Union on Mark Brunell reports: The Jaguars, especially Mark Brunell and Jimmy Smith, could have a field day against Minnesota's beat-up defense, although the Vikings are no doubt mindful of the combined 16 sacks allowed by Jacksonville the past two games. The Vikings aren't known as a blitzing team, but that could change Sunday.

19 DEC: Florida Times Union: it was overlooked in all the controversy about the bottle throwing Sunday, but the old (K) Mike Hollis suddenly returned and made the difference in the Jaguars' 15-10 victory over Cleveland. Hollis, who had been one of the NFL's most reliable field-goal kickers in past years, had made only 10 of his first 18 attempts this season going into the Cleveland game. He also missed his first extra-point attempt since the 1995 season after the Jaguars scored on their opening drive Sunday. But Hollis rallied for field goals of 43, 46 and 37 yards to win the game and boost his season total to 13 of 21.

18 DEC: Florida Times Union on Mark Brunell: Jaguars Coach Tom Coughlin wouldn't be surprised if a 16-sack barrage the past two games is causing (QB) Brunell's accuracy to suffer. Brunell had one of his shakier outings of the season in Sunday's 15-10 victory at Cleveland, throwing for 202 yards and two interceptions. "I don't think [the sacks are taking their toll], but Mark was just a little bit off [Sunday]," Coughlin said yesterday. Brunell's lack of sharpness against Cleveland was understandable, considering he endured a franchise-record tying eight sacks for the second consecutive week, ironically, both of them victories. Cincinnati also sacked him eight times on Dec. 9th.

18 DEC: Florida Times Union on Elvis Joseph: Jaguars (RB) Joseph exited Sunday on the game's opening play after aggravating a shoulder injury suffered earlier this season. "He's going to be sore, but hopefully, he can bounce back," Coughlin said.

RB: S. Mack, E. Joseph, R. White, F. Taylor

FB: P. Washington

WR: J. Smith, K. McCardell, S. Dawkins, D. Gibson, R. Micah

TE: K. Brady, R. Prince, J. Zelenka

PK: M. Hollis

20 DEC: Kansas City Star on Priest Holmes: Chiefs (RB) Holmes (sore groin) did not practice Wednesday, but Coach Dick Vermeil said he would practice today and play on Sunday.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Priest Holmes reports: officially, KC has listed Holmes as probable due to his previously sore groin. We'll follow his progress closely during the rest of this week.

19 DEC: San Diego Tribune on Trent Green reports: If the Chargers concentrate on shutting down Holmes, the Chiefs will turn to (QB) Green, whose passer rating (70) is only slightly better than Doug Flutie's (69.8). But the Chiefs have thrown for 231 yards per game and Green is coming off a 17- for-21 performance against Denver.

19 DEC: San Diego Tribune on Priest Holmes: (RB) Holmes (groin) will practice at half-speed today and possibly tomorrow but should play Sunday.

19 DEC: WWSW Radio on Tony Richardson: Chiefs Coach Dick Vermeil said (FB) Tony Richardson's shoulder is bothering him but he still can play.

18 DEC: Kansas City Star on Tony Richardson: Chiefs (FB) Richardson (shoulder) is on the team's injury report.

18 DEC: Kansas City Star on Priest Holmes: Chiefs Coach Dick Vermeil said (RB) Holmes probably would skip practice Wednesday and perhaps Thursday because of a sore groin muscle.

RB: P. Holmes, M. Cloud, D. Blaylock

FB: T. Richardson

WR: D. Alexander, M. Minnis, E. Kennison, L. Parker, D. Hall

TE: T. Gonzalez, M. Ricks, J. Dunn

PK: T. Peterson

20 DEC: Florida Sun Sentinel on Oronde Gadsden: if the Dolphins were playing New England today, they'd be doing it without (WR) Gadsden. "I definitely wouldn't play [today]," said Gadsden, who is battling problems with his left hamstring and right shoulder. Gadsden had MRIs taken on his hamstring and shoulder Wednesday morning. The results aren't yet known, but Gadsden missed practice for the second consecutive day Wednesday and he's listed as questionable on the team's official injury report. "If I can go, I'll go," said Gadsden. "If I can't go, I'll just have to be there for moral support."

20 DEC: 4for4 on Oronde Gadsden reports: the Dolphins have officially listed Gadsden (hamstring) as questionable for Week #15.

19 DEC: Florida Sun Sentinel on Jay Fiedler reports: "The overall strength he gained has kept him healthy and made us feel better about putting him in situations where he has to carry the football and take a hit," said Coach Wannstedt. (QB) Fiedler also has benefited from solid protection by the line and the occasional insertion of backup Ray Lucas. The Dolphins (9-4) have allowed only 18 sacks, while the use of Lucas has helped shield Fiedler from some blows inherent for QBs in short-yardage situations.

19 DEC: Florida Sun Sentinel on Jay Fiedler: (QB) Fiedler needs two yards to break the Dolphins' single-season rushing record for a QB, 272, set by David Woodley in 1981. Coach Dave Wannstedt said after practice yesterday, "One of Jay's strengths is his mobility and ability to scramble. He's done a good job of doing that this year. The coaches have incorporated some of his mobility into the game plan." Fiedler ranks sixth in the league in rushing yards by a QB this year.

19 DEC: Florida Sun Sentinel on Oronde Gadsden: Dolphins (WR) Gadsden (left hamstring) missed practice Tuesday, but he's also expected to play.

RB: L. Smith, T. Minor, J.J. Johnson

FB: R. Konrad, D. Dyer

WR: J. McKnight, C. Chambers, O. Gadsden, J. Ogden, D. Ward

TE: H. Goodwin, J. Weaver, E. Perry

PK: O. Mare

Culpepper hurt his knee Nov. 25 against Chicago and started the following week against Pittsburgh but couldn't finish. His condition worsened the next week in practice, and Todd Bouman played in his place the last two games.

The average recovery time from the surgery is two or three weeks, but the Vikings haven't ruled out his return for the regular season finale -- Jan. 7 at Baltimore.

Bouman has a sprained ligament in the thumb on his passing hand but is listed as probable on the injury report and is expected to play Sunday against Jacksonville.

Coach Dennis Green said Bouman would take it easy in practice Wednesday afternoon but probably go full speed Thursday and Friday. Spergon Wynn, acquired in September from Cleveland, is next in line in the unlikely case Bouman is unable to play this weekend.

Also of interest. ...

According to SportsLine.com insider Jay Glazer, even if Vikings perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver Cris Carter decides not to retire following the season, his Vikings career will soon be over.

SportsLine.com has obtained a copy of Carter's contract and it states he has qualified for an option to void the final five years of his contract on Feb. 28, or the last day of this league year. Carter has reached certain performance-based incentives that can void his deal and allow him to leave the Vikings to become an unrestricted free agent.

While some close to Carter insist he is likely to exercise this option, the Vikings won't let his deal run past the "voidable" date. Carter's contract also states the team must pay him a $2 million bonus March 1 if he is on the roster. Either route taken by either side would put the Vikings in a bad position based upon the salary cap. If Carter voids the final five years of his contract, the Vikings will take a $5.938 million cap hit (or 8 percent of the team's cap) for a player who is no longer on their roster.

Carter's contract states: "As hereby agreed between the Vikings and Cris Carter the following provisions shall govern the 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2006 contract years. The 2002-2006 seasons will be considered null and void at player's option if player is a member of the 80-man roster on last day of 2001 league year and any one of the following has occurred:

"Player has played 50 percent of plays during the 1998, 1999, 2000 or 2001 season; club wins one more regular-season game in any of these years than the club won in the immediate prior season; club ranks 10th or better in the NFL in total points scored in any of the aforementioned seasons.

"Players shall give written notice to club on the last day of the 2001 league year."

According to people close to Carter, his preference is to begin his post-career aspirations of being an NFL broadcaster or analyst, a trade he has been intensely training for over the past few years. However, should the right offer or role not arise, his next preference would be to void his deal and sign as an unrestricted free agent with a team that has a Super Bowl chance.

"He won't be back in Minnesota," said one person close to the future Hall of Famer. "He'd be a perfect fit for a place like Denver or to rejoin Brian (Billick, his former offensive coordinator with the Vikings and now head coach of Ravens). He'd play again if the right TV job doesn't open up."

Carter's relationship with coach Dennis Green has badly soured in the past few weeks. In fact, the sources say his coach is one of the primary reasons why Carter will look to leave Minnesota shortly after the season ends.

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Pioneer Press on Jim Kleinsasser reports: Jim missed his 4th consecutive game because of ankle sprain. He is expected to play this Sunday.

20 DEC: Florida Times Union on Todd Bouman reports: The Jaguars expect injured Todd Bouman to QB Minnesota on Sunday, and Vikings coach Dennis Green said they're probably right. "Todd Bouman should start," Green said yesterday.

20 DEC: Minneapolis Star Tribune on Cris Carter: Vikings (WR) Carter said he plans to speak with CNN/SI NFL analyst Irving Fryar, who took things away from their conversation that Carter said he did not say. Fryar, a former NFL WR himself, told viewers Monday: "I tell you what. These Lions beat a team that's in total disarray. I talked to Cris Carter this week from the Vikings. He's fed up. He doesn't want to be on the Vikings anymore. He said what's going on with the Randy Moss situation is Dennis Green's fault; he's allowing it to go on." Carter didn't want me to play him the tape of Fryar's remarks and didn't have much to say after I did.

20 DEC: Minneapolis Star Tribune: Vikings Third-string (QB) Spergon Wynn took the majority of snaps in practice as the newly signed (QB) Romaro Miller re-familiarized himself with the offense. Bouman wore elastic tape on the thumb, which he said had reduced swelling considerably.

20 DEC: Minneapolis Star Tribune on Todd Bouman: Vikings (QB) Bouman sat out practice and was unable to throw Wednesday because of a sprained ligament in his right thumb. The Vikings are hoping he can go through a full practice today, but Bouman seemed uncertain of that as he departed Winter Park. "I'll try to go [today] and see what I can do," Bouman said. "The swelling is a lot better than it was. Hopefully, I'll be able to get on the field and let it rip a few times." Bouman is listed as probable on the team's injury report.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Todd Bouman reports: as expected, the Vikings have officially listed Bouman (thumb) as probable for Week #15.

19 DEC: 4for4 on Todd Bouman: Vikings (QB) Bouman (strained thumb) will be listed as probable on the team's injury report and is not certain that he will be ready Sunday. That leaves second-year player Spergon Wynn as the Vikings' only fully healthy QB.

19 DEC: Pioneer Press on Randy Moss: Vikings (WR) Moss caused another stir when he took himself out of Sunday's game on third down with 14 seconds left, before coming back in on fourth down. Fans ripping Moss flooded radio call-in shows. However, several people in the organization defended Moss, saying he ran long routes on several plays earlier in the final drive. Fellow (WR) Cris Carter took himself out for a play on the same drive.

19 DEC: Florida Times Union on Randy Moss: which (WR) Moss the Jaguars will face when they take on the Vikings Sunday - is it going to be the unstoppable force who has caught a combined 54 TD passes the past four seasons? Or will it be the petulant, immature Moss who disappears for long stretches and who recently said he plays "when I want to play"? Moss apparently has decided to play the past three weeks. Since uttering his infamous proclamation...Moss has a combined 22 receptions for 446 yards and four TDs.

18 DEC: Pioneer Press on Jim Kleinsasser: (FB) Kleinsasser is expected to play Sunday after missing four games with an ankle sprain.

18 DEC: Minneapolis Star Tribune on Todd Bouman: Vikings Backup (QB) Bouman strained a ligament on the palm side of the thumb during the Vikings' 27-24 loss Sunday at Detroit, and although he will be listed as probable on the team's injury report, Bouman said Monday he is not certain he will be ready Sunday. That leaves second-year player (QB) Spergon Wynn as the Vikings' only fully healthy QB, and he would play Sunday if Bouman's thumb does not progress this week. As a result, the Vikings were finalizing plans Monday to re-sign (QB) Romaro Miller, a final roster cut this summer who would have been the Vikings' No. 3 QB had they not acquired (QB) Spergon Wynn in a trade with the Browns.

18 DEC: Minneapolis Star Tribune on Daunte Culpepper: Vikings (QB) Culpepper said Monday he will have his left knee operated on this week, possibly as early as Wednesday, leaving a slight but unlikely chance he could return for the Vikings' regular-season finale at Baltimore.

18 DEC: 4for4 on Todd Bouman: Based on Coach Green's comments yesterday, it appears that (QB) Bouman is probable for Week #15. "We'll have to put him on the injury list as probable." Over his last two starts, Todd is averaging 296 passing yards, 3 TDs and 29 rushing yards per game.

18 DEC: KFXN: (QB) Daunte Culpepper will have arthroscopic surgery on his knee this week. Coach Green said Daunte can't play without having the surgery. Depending on how well the process goes, it's possible Culpepper might be able to play again in the 2001 season.

RB: M. Bennett, D. Chapman, T. Prentice

FB: J. Kleinsasser, H. Morrow

WR: R. Moss, C. Carter, J. Reed, C. Walsh, T. Walters, N. Jacquet

TE: B. Chamberlain, A. Jordan

PK: G. Anderson

19 DEC: Boston Globe on Terry Glenn: Patriots (WR) Glenn said he played a little more in the Buffalo game than he did the week before. Glenn wants to make more of an impact, but this week's opponent, the Dolphins, shut Glenn down last season.

19 DEC: Chicago Sun Times on Drew Bledsoe reports: He has become the backup to Tom Brady in New England, but there's no way he will remain in that role next season after signing a series of contracts in March that could net $103 million over 10 years. Bledsoe is 29 and has led the Patriots to a Super Bowl. Unloading Bledsoe would cost the Pats a salary- cap hit of close to $7 million, but it might be worth it to avoid a rift entering training camp. Although the Bears have considerable room under the salary cap to include Bledsoe's deal, the salary and the price to acquire him might scare off Angelo.

18 DEC: Boston Globe on David Patten: Patriots Coach Bill Belichick reported his team sustained no serious injuries from the Bills game. (WR) Patten was knocked unconscious, but he is fine now.

18 DEC: Boston Globe on Tom Brady: Patriots (QB) Brady certainly has played remarkably well since taking over for [Drew] Bledsoe three weeks into the season, but never has one man not named Doug Flutie gotten more credit for doing less, especially in the past few weeks. Brady is 9-3 as a starter and often has been a steady hand on the wheel, but he's beaten only two teams that have a winning record as of this morning (the Jets and Saints) while losing to just as many (Miami and St. Louis).

RB: A. Smith, K. Faulk, J.R. Redmond

FB: M. Edwards, P. Pass

WR: D. Patten, T. Brown, T. Glenn, C. Johnson, F. Coleman

TE: R. Rutledge, J. Wiggins, A. Love

PK: A. Vinatieri

The Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Department is looking into the actions that led to the wide receiver being disciplined by the team.

"The matter is under investigation," said sheriff's department spokesman Col. Bob Garner. He would not comment on when or why the investigation began.

The Saints suspended Connell on Monday for the final four games of the season and fined him an additional paycheck "for conduct detrimental to the team." Neither the Saints nor Connell's agent, Peter Schaffer, would specify what Connell allegedly had done.

"It was a regular locker-room prank," Schaffer said. "It was the typical kind of thing a veteran would do to a rookie."

Saints general manager Randy Mueller refused to discuss the incident, as did coach Jim Haslett.

"That's out of my hands," Haslett said. "That's out of the organization's hands right now and I'll let the due process take control of that."

Saints No. 1 draft pick Deuce McAllister refused to comment on reports he was the target of Connell's actions.

"I'm not going to comment on anything to do with that," McAllister said. "Albert is a good friend of mine and I wish he was still on the team. We could use him while we're trying to get into the playoffs."

Although Saints officials said Connell no longer is part of the organization, Schaffer said Connell still believed he was a member of the team.

"What we're trying to do is work with the Saints to resolve this," Schaffer said. "Albert wants to remain with the team. He was happy when they signed him as a free agent and he hopes to stay in New Orleans."

Connell was inactive for the game with the Atlanta Falcons on Dec. 9 and cleaned out his locker the next day. Team officials at first denied Connell had packed his belongings, but later in the week, Mueller acknowledged Connell was gone and would not play again for the team this season.

"Obviously, Albert has some issues he is dealing with," Mueller said. "And we probably have some issues with Albert."

The Saints signed Connell this spring, hoping he would add an additional deep threat to their passing game. Connell caught just 12 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games.

Connell, who signed a five-year, $14 million contract in March, was paid $1.5 million of his $2.5 million bonus at the time. The remaining $1 million was to be paid in three installments in 2002. Monday's suspension jeopardizes Connell receiving those payments.

Connell was fined $29,411, or 1/17th of his $500,000 base salary. The four-game suspension will cost Connell $117,647 in salary, bringing the total money he'll forfeit to $147,058.

Connell could file a grievance with the NFL Players Association, but Schaffer seemed to rule that out -- at least for now.

"We would like a harmonious resolution to this," Schaffer said. "We don't want to make this any bigger deal than it is."

Just for the record. ... ESPN.com insider Len Pasquarelli reported last Friday that Connell's trouble in New Orleans stems from a gambling problem. ...

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Times Picayune on Ricky Williams reports: (RB) Williams suffered a hairline fracture in a rib Monday night against the Rams and is listed as questionable, However, Saints Coach Jim Haslett expects Ricky to be ready for Week #15 action against Tampa Bay.

20 DEC: The Advocate on Ricky Williams: New Orleans Saints (RB) Williams (ribs) is questionable.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Ricky Williams reports: in a move that somewhat surprised several of those that closely follow the Saints, (RB) Williams has officially been listed as questionable for Week #15 due to his sore ribs. We'll have much more on Ricky as the week progresses.

19 DEC: Times Picayune on Albert Connell: Saints Coach Jim Haslett said the club has no plans to replace (WR) Connell, who has been placed on the reserve/suspended list for the final three games of the season. There are five receivers on the active roster, which normally is composed of 53 players. "If there's somebody out there that can help us, we'll fill it. Otherwise we'll stay at 52," Haslett said.

19 DEC: Sun Herald on Albert Connell: Saints (WR) Connell is accused of stealing twice from teammate (RB) Deuce McAllister's locker to the tune of a combined $800, and his agent characterized it as a prank. The Saints cited "conduct detrimental to the team" as the reason. The team also fined him an additional game check, meaning they'll withhold 5/17th of his $500,000 salary for the 2001 season. The team also may take action to stop payment on $1 million still left to be paid on his $2.5 million signing bonus. Sources say that overall there was more than one incident of theft involving more than one player.

RB: R. Williams, D. McAllister, F. McAfee

FB: T. Smith, M. Norris, K. Houser

WR: J. Horn, W. Jackson, R. Wilson, W. McGarity, O. Ojo

TE: C. Cleeland, E. Williams, L. Hall,

PK: J. Carney

20 DEC: 4for4 on Joe Jurevicius reports: early word from New York suggests -- barring a setback or a tweak to his hamstring area -- the former Penn State star should be available for Week #15.

19 DEC: Newark Star Ledger on Joe Jurevicius reports: Coach Fassel has said he expects (WR) Jurevicius (hamstring) and (RB) Damon Washington (knee) to be available Sunday.

18 DEC: New York Newsday on Ike Hilliard: Giants (WR) Hilliard aggravated his sore right foot Saturday and might be limited this week.

17 DEC: Giants.com on Damon Washington: Coach Jim Fassel said (RB) Washington (knee) should be ready to face the Seahawks this week.

17 DEC: Giants.com on Joe Jurevicius: Coach Jim Fassel said (WR) Jurevicius (hamstring) should be ready to face the Seahawks this week.

17 DEC: Giants.com: The Giants suffered no significant injuries in Saturday's game.

RB: T. Barber, R. Dayne, D. Washington

FB: G. Comella, A. Green

WR: A. Toomer, I. Hilliard, J. Jurevicius, R. Dixon, T. Davis

TE: H. Cross, D. Campbell, M. Rivers

PK: M. Andersen, O. Pochman

20 DEC: New York Post reports: Rookie (WR) Santana Moss, out the last two games with a strained thigh, returned to practice, an indication that he could play.

20 DEC: New York Times on Santana Moss: Jets (WR) Moss (quadriceps) practiced Wednesday and is questionable for Sunday.

19 DEC: New York Daily News on Laveranues Coles reports: One reason for Kevin Swayne's breakout game (four third-down catches for 74 yards) was that Laveranues Coles and Wayne Chrebet drew double-coverage on third down. Coles drew double coverage almost the entire game, according to Jets OC Paul Hackett. The Bengals perceived Coles as a bigger threat than Chrebet.

18 DEC: New York Times on Vinny Testaverde: On the day after the Jets' 15-14 victory over the Bengals...the back-story to the Jets' comeback is an intriguing one. Head Coach Herman Edwards said today that, after he told (QB) Testaverde at halftime that the game was on his shoulders, he asked Testaverde what plays he was comfortable running. Edwards then went to the OC, Paul Hackett, and said that it was time to let Testaverde throw the ball.

18 DEC: New York Times on Santana Moss: Jets (WR) Moss (quadriceps) remains questionable. He has already missed two consecutive games. His speed would be particularly missed this week, on the artificial turf in Indianapolis.

RB: C. Martin, L. Jordan, C. Morton

FB: R. Anderson, J. Sowell

WR: W. Chrebet, L. Coles, K. Swayne, S. Moss, M. Hatchette, C. Yeast

TE: A. Becht, J. Dearth, D. Wilcox

PK: J. Hall

19 DEC: Contra Costa Times on Tyrone Wheatley: Raiders Coach Gruden expects (RB) Wheatley to play against the Titans. Wheatley dressed, but did not play last Saturday at San Diego.

19 DEC: SF Chronicle: Raiders (K) Sebastian Janikowski (groin) did not kick yesterday, but is expected to be ready to play Saturday.

19 DEC: Mercury News: Raiders Coach Jon Gruden said he did not keep (RB) Tyrone Wheatley out of last Saturday's game by design. "I don't want anybody to get their feelings hurt or get upset, but sometimes you've got to make some tough decisions in the heat of the battle," said Gruden, who knows Wheatley was displeased about not getting into the Chargers game. Wheatley was kept out of the game while Charlie Garner, Zack Crockett and Terry Kirby shared RB duties.

18 DEC: Mercury News: Raiders Coach Jon Gruden expects (K) Sebastian Janikowski to play Saturday against the Tennessee Titans, but the Raiders might sign an extra kicker just in case. Janikowski suffered a strained groin against San Diego but finished the game.

RB: C. Garner, T. Wheatley, R. Jordan, T. Kirby

FB: J. Ritchie, Z. Crockett, J. Williams

WR: T. Brown, J. Rice, J. Porter, M. Knight, J. Jett

TE: R. Williams, J. Brigham, M. Fulcher

PK: S. Janikowski

20 DEC: 4for4 on Chad Lewis reports: he's officially been listed as probable for the Eagles-49ers game this weekend.

19 DEC: 4for4 on Chad Lewis: Eagles (TE) Lewis (neck stinger) was in for treatment and should be fine for Sunday's game.

19 DEC: Philadelphia Inquirer on Duce Staley: that even though his title is RB, Staley is more than willing to gain yardage as a pass receiver. Said Staley, "You might have an argument if it wasn't working. But if it works, you stick to it. I don't care." Right now, throwing the ball to Staley is working much better than handing it off to him. It may be Coach Andy Reid's philosophy, a trend in the way defenses are approaching the West Coast offense, Reid's desire to shield Staley from further injury, or a combination of all those things.

18 DEC: Philadelphia Inquirer on Donovan McNabb: Eagles (QB) McNabb, who suffered a sprained left wrist Sunday, then fell on the wrist several times is expected to be ready Saturday. McNabb also had back spasms yesterday.

18 DEC: Philadelphia Inquirer on Todd Pinkston: Eagles (WR) Pinkston was X-rayed to assess the damage from the "stinger" he suffered in the second half of Sunday's victory over Washington. Pinkston's collarbone was not broken, Reid said, but he had spasms in a trapezoid muscle. His status will be updated today.

18 DEC: 4for4 on James Thrash: Eagles Coach Andy Reid has stated that starter (WR) Thrash has sore ribs however he's doing well and should be okay.

RB: D. Staley, C. Buckhalter, B. Mitchell, R. Smart

FB: C. Martin, J. Reader

WR: J. Thrash, T. Pinkston, F. Mitchell, N. Brown, G. Scott, D. Douglas

TE: C. Lewis, T. Stewart, M. Bartrum, J. Thomason

PK: D. Akers

Bettis, the NFL's leading rusher for part of the season, probably won't play Sunday against the Detroit Lions, but expects to be ready to play Dec. 30 in Cincinnati.

Bettis, who assured himself of a sixth consecutive 1,000-yard season before he was hurt Dec. 2 against Minnesota, also said the groin injury he had during the 1996 playoffs was much worse than his current injury.

"There wasn't any next week then -- and now there is," Bettis said. "Right now, this is the smartest thing to do. Now, we've got the luxury of time on our side and we've got to take advantage of it."

The Steelers (11-2) have clinched the AFC Central title and can assure themselves of a first-round bye if they beat the Lions (1-12). They also lead Oakland (10-3) in the race for home field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs.

Bettis tried playing with the severely injured groin in 1996, but was held to 43 yards on 13 carries in a 28-3 loss at New England. The week before, he ran for 102 yards and two touchdowns in a 42-14 playoff victory over Indianapolis.

Bettis was in so much pain before the New England game that he needed five to six painkilling and antispasmodic injections and hours of therapy just to get on the field.

"Yeah, that was a tough one," Bettis said. "But that was different. That was the groin actually being torn from the bone."

That kind of injury, he said, is more like that which has sidelined Jacksonville Jaguars running back Fred Taylor for most of the season. Bettis said the injury he has now is much less severe.

If Bettis sits out Sunday, he will have missed three consecutive games, or as many as he did in his first eight NFL seasons combined. The injury may have also cost him any chance of winning the NFL rushing title for the first time.

However, Bettis said he is much more interested in getting to the Super Bowl for the first time. He was traded to Pittsburgh before the 1996 season, or the year after they lost to Dallas 27-17 in the Super Bowl.

"For me, that (the rushing title) doesn't mean anything," Bettis said. "I understand the big picture. We've got to be smart and be conscious that we've got a special situation here that doesn't come very often. You've got to put your personal ambitions aside and go for that team goal.

"And, for me, that's what I've always wanted anyway."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Pittsburgh Gazette on Jerome Bettis reports: he has a groin/hip injury and could play this week if they needed him. The Steelers want to get him healthy for the playoffs. Bettis has said he will be ready to play in Cincinnati next week, but even if he is it's possible they could hold him out of that game too. He said the team's approach "is the smartest thing to do."

20 DEC: Pittsburgh Gazette on Jerome Bettis: Steelers (RB) Bettis did not practice Wednesday.

20 DEC: Pittsburgh Gazette on Amos Zereoue: Steelers (RB) Zereoue, dressed in a sweat suit Wednesday, did not practice.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Jerome Bettis reports: as expected, the Steelers have listed Jerome as doubtful for Week #15 due to his groin problem.

19 DEC: Detroit Free Press on Jerome Bettis reports: Pittsburgh's Jerome Bettis, who has 1,072 yards rushing in 11 games, is likely to miss a third consecutive game because of a groin injury. He's listed as doubtful. If he sits out, he will have missed as many games as he did in his first eight seasons combined.

19 DEC: Pittsburgh Gazette on Jerome Bettis: Coach Bill Cowher reversed field yesterday and downgraded (RB) Bettis to doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions. Responding to reports on local radio that Bettis would not play again this season, Cowher gave his assurance that he would. Several Steelers sources insist that Bettis could play if necessary, and the Bus has been lobbying Cowher the past two weeks to play him.

19 DEC: WWSW Radio Jon Witman: Steelers (FB) Witman (ankle) is probable to play this week.

19 DEC: WWSW Radio on Amos Zereoue: Steelers Coach Bill Cowher said (RB) Zereoue (shoulder) is questionable.

19 DEC: WWSW Radio on Jerome Bettis: Steelers Coach Bill Cowher said (RB) Bettis (groin/hip) is doubtful to play this week.

18 DEC: Pittsburgh Gazette on Amos Zereoue: Steelers (RB) Zereoue, who had 73 yards on 16 carries against the Ravens on Sunday, did not return after re-injuring his sprained shoulder late in the fourth quarter. It is not known if Zereoue will be able to play against the Lions this week.

18 DEC: Pittsburgh Tribune on Jerome Bettis: Steelers Coach Bill Cowher appears to be leaning toward returning (RB) Bettis (hip/groin) to the lineup next week against the Lions. "I think he's going to be close to 100 percent by next week," Cowher said. "We'll see. I don't want to make any predictions, but I'd be surprised if he wasn't playing next week. It's going to be good have a healthy Jerome Bettis down the stretch."

RB: C. Fuamatu Ma'afala, A. Zereoue, J. Bettis

FB: J. Witman, D. Kreider

WR: H. Ward, P. Burress, B. Shaw, T. Edwards, L. Jackson

TE: J. Tuman, M. Cushing, C. Geason

PK: K. Brown

19 DEC: St. Louis Dispatch: The Rams got out of New Orleans without getting banged up. "We're getting our guys back and it's a good feeling to have," Rams coach Mike Martz said one day after his team played an in-your-face, body-slamming contest in New Orleans. "This is that time of year when we need everybody coming down the stretch."

19 DEC: KTRS Radio on Isaac Bruce: Rams Coach Mike Martz said of (WR) Isaac Bruce's injury that it's nothing more than a bruise with some swelling. He may miss a day or so of practice but is expected to play this week.

18 DEC: Times Picayune on Kurt Warner: (QB) Warner and the Rams got the last word. Three of Warner's TD passes went to (WR) Isaac Bruce, and the other to Marshall Faulk. The Rams weren't perfect -- St. Louis lost two fumbles, increasing their league-leading giveaway total to 37. One set up a Saints TD and the other prevented a Rams score. But New Orleans had its own problems, including 16 penalties for 132 yards.

18 DEC: St. Louis Dispatch on Isaac Bruce: with 86 receiving yards on five catches in last night's game, Rams (WR) Bruce has 1,019 yards for the season. He has five seasons of 1,000 yards or more, a Rams record. Coming into the game Bruce was tied with Rams offensive assistant Henry Ellard, each of who had four 1,000-yard seasons. Bruce also is only the second player in franchise history with three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons. And perhaps more importantly, Bruce holds the team record for receiving TDs in a career. He needed one to break a tie with Hall of Famer Elroy "Crazylegs" Hirsch.

18 DEC: 4for4 on Kurt Warner: Last night (QB) Warner displayed excellent poise and judgment in the pocket as he led the Rams to a 34-21 road victory over the New Orleans Saints. Warner's accuracy was outstanding. He perfectly placed the ball on numerous occasions. Kurt ended the game with 338 passing yards and 4 TDs. With the win, the Rams (11-2) clinched a playoff spot.

RB: M. Faulk, T. Canidate, R. Holcombe

FB: J. Hodgins, J. Watson

WR: T. Holt, I. Bruce, A. Hakim, R. Proehl, Y. Murphy

TE: E. Conwell, J. Robinson, B. Manumaleuna

PK: J. Wilkins

20 DEC: Kansas City Star on Drew Brees: Chargers rookie (QB) Brees tore up the Chiefs in last month's game in San Diego, throwing for 221 yards, most coming in the second half, and leading the Chargers back from a 19-point deficit. Brees may get another shot at the Chiefs when the clubs meet again Sunday at Arrowhead Stadium. Chargers HC Mike Riley said Brees might get some playing time in relief of starter (QB) Doug Flutie. Brees hasn't played in any of the Chargers' 13 other games. Riley has taken heat lately because Flutie has played poorly and the Chargers have lost seven straight games.

19 DEC: Kansas City Star on Drew Brees reports: It appears San Diego coach Mike Riley plans to stick with Doug Flutie at QB for the rest of the season rather than take a look at rookie Drew Brees. Riley did not rule out the possibility of Brees seeing some action in the final two games, but he made it clear that he's not comfortable with throwing the rookie into the mix as a starter.

18 DEC: San Diego Tribune on Tim Dwight: Chargers (WR) Dwight (fluid lung) won't play Sunday against the Chiefs.

18 DEC: San Diego Tribune on Doug Flutie: Coach Mike Riley admitted there is a good argument to play rookie (QB) Drew Brees Sunday, but he said Flutie will remain his QB.

RB: L. Tomlinson, R. Jenkins, T. Fletcher

FB: F. McCrary, D. Harris

WR: C. Conway, J. Graham, T. Gaylor, P. Batteaux, G. Milburn, T. Dwight

TE: F. Jones, S. Heiden, J. Whitman, A. Young

PK: S. Christie, W. Richey

Garcia, who suffered sore ribs during the 49ers' 21-0 win over the Miami Dolphins last Sunday, hasn't practiced this week. 49ers coach Steve Mariucci wouldn't say whether Garcia would start Saturday, although it's hard to imagine he won't.

The 49ers (10-3) already have clinched a playoff berth but are still in contention for the NFC West title and conceivably home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

"There's more to accomplish right now than just earning a playoff spot," Mariucci said. "We're still in the divisional race. The Rams could certainly win out and clinch the division, but we're still fighting for the divisional lead, we're still fighting for a home-field playoff game. There's more to accomplish that could put us in a better position in the playoffs.

"With that said, we have to determine who's healthy enough to play. Is it worth the risk? Guys are hurt all over the place and at some point we may have to consider if a guy's capable and able to play."

Garcia, enjoying his second straight Pro Bowl-caliber season, said he's in considerable discomfort but indicated he'll probably play.

"I'm just dealing with the soreness," Garcia said. "I don't think it's something I'll really chance as far as making worse by playing. It's one of those things where there's some pain there and I'll just have to see how I feel and deal with it.

"The bruising has kind of spread a little bit and it's a little more tender than it was Sunday during the game. It's not a real comfortable feeling, that's for sure."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Mercury News on Jeff Garcia reports: "There's not a question in my mind," Garcia said. "It's sore today but it's not any more sore than it was yesterday. Hopefully it will start to get better and we'll just deal with it." Coach Steve Mariucci said Garcia's chances of playing were 50-50. He said the possibility he could aggravate the injury would be a factor in deciding his status later this week. "We will take that into consideration and get all the medical advice we can," Mariucci said.

20 DEC: Philadelphia Daily News on Jeff Garcia reports: the overall belief in the Eagles' locker room yesterday was that Garcia would play. But, 49ers Coach Steve Mariucci said he was not so sure. "I don't know about Saturday," he said. "Most QBs in the league right now are a little banged up, Jeff's one of them." Garcia did not practice yesterday, and how he feels today will determine whether he will practice. Garcia, who normally wears a flak jacket to protect his ribs, said he was "a little bit sore" but expected to play. "I plan on playing on Saturday," he said.

20 DEC: Philadelphia Inquirer: Expect the Eagles to go after Niners (QB) Jeff Garcia, who suffered torn cartilage in his rib cage on Sunday. But then, in DC Jim Johnson's scheme, the Eagles go after every QB.

20 DEC: Press Democrat on Jeff Garcia: Just because 49ers backup (QB) Tim Rattay took all the practice snaps Wednesday doesn't mean he expects to jog out with the starters on game day. But (QB) Garcia, with sore ribs on his right side, is listed as questionable for Saturday's game against the Eagles, seemingly jeopardizing his streak of 34 consecutive starts. Head Coach Steve Mariucci said, "It's hard for me to say one way or the other. We'll make that decision later on in the week." Although Mariucci said the odds of Garcia playing are just 50-50, Garcia said he believes he should be able to play effectively by the time Saturday rolls around.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Jeff Garcia reports: the 49ers have officially listed Jeff as questionable due to his rib injury. We'll certainly have much more to say about Jeff later in the week.

19 DEC: 4for4 on Jeff Garcia: 49ers (QB) Garcia is sore and plans to use a sturdier flak jacket to protect his right side. Coach Steve Mariucci anticipated Garcia would be available depending on how well Garcia practices this week. At this time Garcia listed as probable.

18 DEC: SF Chronicle on Jeff Garcia: A CAT scan of 49ers (QB) Garcia's battered right side revealed torn rib cartilage and nothing more, the 49ers said yesterday. Nevertheless, the situation creates a dilemma for Coach Steve Mariucci: Does he play Garcia and risk further injury to his most indispensable player, or does he rest him in one or more of the next three games so that he's healthier for the postseason? Mariucci seemed to be leaving the decision up to Garcia, saying if a player practices, he should be able to play in a game.

18 DEC: Contra Costa Times: 49ers (K) Jose Cortez, who missed a 41-yard field goal attempt Sunday and hasn't made a field goal at 3Com Park since Oct. 7, is testing his coaches' collective patience. However, his job is apparently safe. "Right now, he's what we've got and he's capable," Coach Steve Mariucci said. "He's been practicing pretty well. We're just hoping he makes the next one." Mariucci said the 49ers haven't discussed replacing Cortez, who Mariucci said he thinks may have a tired leg from kicking in the XFL earlier this year.

17 DEC: ESPN on Jeff Garcia reports: (QB) Garcia was X-rayed following Sunday's win over the Dolphins after injuring ribs. Jeff suffered torn cartilage but is expected to play Saturday against the Eagles.

17 DEC: Contra Costa Times on Eric Johnson: 49ers (TE) Johnson sprained his right pinkie finger.

17 DEC: Miami Herald on Jeff Garcia: 49ers (QB) Garcia, who injured his ribs when he got sacked by Dolphins (LB) Derrick Rodgers just before halftime, was able to stay in the game until 49ers backup (QB) Tim Rattay relieved him on the 49ers' second-to-last series. Garcia underwent X-rays after the game, and he said they didn't reveal any damage. "It looked OK so we'll go from there,'' said Garcia, who is listed as probable for Saturday's game against the Eagles.

17 DEC: ESPN on Jeff Garcia reports: the 49ers QB was X-rayed following Sunday's game against the Dolphins and was diagnosed with bruised ribs. He will be re-evaluated today.

16 DEC: 4for4 on Jeff Garcia reports: (QB) Garcia suffered a chest injury today in leading the 49ers to a decisive victory against the Dolphins. For his part, Garcia tallied 133 passing yards and 1 TD. The extent of Garcia's chest/rib injury is uncertain at this time.

RB: G. Hearst, K. Barlow, P. Smith, J. Lewis

FB: F. Beasley, T. Jackson

WR: T. Owens, J.J. Stokes, T. Streets, C. Wilson, V. Sutherland

TE: E. Johnson, J. Swift, B. Jennings, G. Clark

PK: J. Cortez

He will start the final three games of the Seahawks' regular season, as well as the playoffs if his team gets that far.

Injured in Seattle's victory over the Dallas Cowboys last Sunday, Watters will be a free agent at the end of the season and is unlikely to be re-signed by the Seahawks.

Coach Mike Holmgren gave Watters the starting nod last week after the veteran returned from a shoulder injury. Now Alexander is confident he can continue to have the same success running the ball as he did when he filled in for Watters earlier in the season.

The Seahawks went 5-4 in the games in which Alexander started. He became the fourth 1,000-yard rusher in the franchise's history.

Alexander said Wednesday he didn't realize the extent of Watters' injury until he arrived at team headquarters on Monday.

"I saw him get out of his car with crutches. I said, 'My God, what did you do?' It was just shocking."

The Seahawks (7-6) will face the New York Giants (6-7) on the road on Sunday.

Alexander, a first-round draft choice from Alabama in 2000, was unhappy about his demotion last week.

"It's like eating peanuts and then eating steak," he said. "Peanuts are good, but going back to peanuts after you've had steak is tough. Now, I'm back on steak again so I guess everything is good."

The Giants hope Alexander won't enjoy his trip to Giants Stadium.

"He's very slippery," star defensive end Michael Strahan said in a telephone conference call Wednesday. "Guys don't miss tackles because the guy is standing still. He's making you miss. He's very talented."

Alexander played in the fourth quarter of the Cowboys' game, after Watters was injured, and scored his 13th touchdown on a 7-yard run. His 13 touchdowns are tied for the NFL lead with Marshall Faulk of St. Louis and Terrell Owens of San Francisco.

His 1,036 rushing yards are ninth in the league although he didn't start in four of the Seahawks' games.

Alexander hopes to lead Seattle into the playoffs.

"If your team is playing well at this time, then you've done something well," he said. "Hopefully, we can do some great things this month."

Alexander has had rushing games of 266, 176 and 142 yards this season. His 266-yard effort against Oakland on Nov. 11 was the fourth best rushing total in NFL history.

"I don't anticipate him feeling squeezed or more pressured," Holmgren said. "He's an interesting young guy. His demeanor and how he approaches things. It's been consistent."

Alexander's teammates have confidence in him as well.

"I think everybody would love to have Ricky here, but Shaun's shown he's more than capable of getting the job done," fullback Mack Strong said. "With Shaun in there, we've got to pick up where we left off."

"I like Shaun a lot," wide receiver Bobby Engram said. "He's come in and made some incredible runs this season."

Other notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: KHHO Radio on Ricky Watters: Seahawks (RB) Watters (ankle- IR) is getting a second opinion on his ankle injury before deciding if he'll have surgery.

19 DEC: Seattle Post Intelligencer on Ricky Watters: The Seahawks have placed (RB) Watters (cracked ankle) on injured reserve.

18 DEC: Seattle Times on Ricky Watters: Seahawks (RB) Watters was unavailable for comment yesterday, but several players and coaches expressed shock and disappointment about losing one of the team's captains. Holmgren added, "It's a shame. He was really looking forward to coming back and playing. He did an excellent job in the football game. Everybody went through all that rigmarole about who was going to play and all that. Now, his season is finished."

18 DEC: Seattle Post Intelligencer on Ricky Watters: (RB) Watters' second major injury of the season, this time a broken right ankle, will sideline him for the rest of his 11th year in the NFL and fourth with the Seahawks. It also probably will mean he's had his last carry in a Seahawks uniform. Watters' contract is up at the end of the season, when he becomes a free agent. With Alexander waiting, the Seahawks are not expected to offer Watters a new contract. Holmgren said, "I just feel bad for him. He hadn't been hurt in probably 10 years of playing football. Now, he's had a couple of them this year."

18 DEC: Seattle Post Intelligencer on Ricky Watters: A MRI test revealed the cracked bone. (RB) Watters likely will be placed on injured reserve, making it even more probable that he has played his final game for the Seahawks. Watters, 32, becomes an unrestricted free agent after the season and would have to accept a substantial pay cut and diminished role to return.

18 DEC: Seattle Post Intelligencer on Shaun Alexander: Less than a week after veering away from second-year (RB) Alexander, Coach Mike Holmgren is going back to Alexander, because Ricky Watters cracked a bone in his right ankle Sunday during the fourth quarter of a 29-3 victory over the Cowboys. The injury was originally called a sprained ankle, and Holmgren said after the game that he expected Watters to play Sunday when the Seahawks meet the Giants in the Meadowlands.

RB: S. Alexander, J. Graham, C. Rogers

FB: M. Strong, H. Evans

WR: D. Jackson, K. Robinson, B. Engram, J. Williams, A. Bannister, F. Bownes

TE: C. Fauria, I. Mili, R. Stewart

PK: R. Lindell

Despite the constant double coverage this season, Johnson is on pace to post 123 catches, which would tie Lions WR Herman Moore for the NFL single-season record set in 1995. Johnson recorded his fourth 100-yard receiving game of the season and can now boast a career-high 1,196 receiving yards, passing his previous best of 1,170 yards with the N.Y. Jets in 1999. The 1,196 yards also rank second-best in team history and he is just 227 yards shy of breaking Mark Carrier's club-record 1,422 yards in 1989.

General notes of interest from 4for4.com:

20 DEC: Tampa Tribune on: more Bucs fans are clamoring to see (QB) Shaun King replace (QB) Brad Johnson as starting QB, and maybe they have a point. After throwing just six interceptions and nine TD passes in he first eight games this season, Johnson has thrown seven interceptions and only one TD the past five. Coach Tony Dungy dismisses the idea of replacing Johnson with King, saying, "Is that going to help us run the ball any better?"

20 DEC: Tampa Tribune on Brad Johnson: The Bucs are noticing a higher intensity level as the team prepares to meet the Saints this week. (QB) Johnson said, "This game will dictate who's going to make the playoffs, so I think there's a little buzz of energy around the locker room." While the Saints are known for their front four, Johnson thinks the more critical battle for the Bucs' offense will be in the secondary. Johnson said, "They're going to have a lot of man coverage with our wide receivers. So our receivers are going to have to win some one-on-one match- ups. That's what it's going to come down to."

RB: W. Dunn, A. Stecker, R. Abdullah

FB: M. Alstott, J. Cook

WR: K. Johnson, J. Green, R. Anthony, F. Murphy, K. Williams, M. Wynn

TE: D. Moore, T. Yoder, S. McDermott

PK: M. Gramatica

20 DEC: Nashville Tennessean on Steve McNair: Titans (QB) McNair (back) has not practiced much this week but is expected to play against the Raiders.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Eddie George reports: in predictable fashion, the Titans have officially listed Eddie as questionable due to his ankle. Early word suggests, barring a major setback, he should be fine and available for Week #15. However, keep in mind, Skip Hicks may very well "steal" carries from George this weekend.

19 DEC: 4for4 on Skip Hicks reports: Titans Head Coach Jeff Fisher has made it clear he's going to give (RB) Hicks his share of playing time for the rest of the 2001 season. It's hard to gauge exactly what this means, however based on game dynamics, we'd speculate this could be 6-14 carries.

19 DEC: Nashville Tennessean on Derrick Mason: Titans (WR) Mason (hip flexor) did not participate in team drills.

19 DEC: Nashville Tennessean on Shad Meier: Titans (TE) Meier (hand) did not participate in any portion of practice.

19 DEC: Nashville Tennessean on Steve McNair: Titans (QB) McNair did not practice because of a stiff back.

19 DEC: Nashville Tennessean on Chris Sanders: Titans (WR) Sanders returned to the practice field for the first time in nearly two months yesterday. Sanders had surgery to have a piece of a disc removed after suffering back pain early in the season. He hasn't played in a game since Oct. 14 against Tampa Bay. Sanders went through individual drills and practiced on the scout team. He is not expected to play against Oakland, though he'd like to play at some point this season. He said he feels like he's at about 80 to 85 percent.

18 DEC: Nashville Tennessean: for the past two weeks, Titans Coach Jeff Fisher has been saying (RB) Skip Hicks would get more work. Hicks' 142 yards on 17 carries Sunday firmed up that plan. "We're going to play Skip more," Fisher said yesterday. "We're going to play Skip, if at all possible, as much as he played [Sunday] night ... But I also want to get Eddie George 1,000 yards." George, lately battling a sore ankle, has 736 yards. He needs 264 over the final three games to reach the 1,000-yard milestone for the sixth time in his career. George has rushed for at least 1,294 yards in each of his first five seasons in the league.

RB: E. George, S. Hicks, M. Green, D. Alexander

HB: E. Kinney, S. Meier

WR: D. Mason, K. Dyson, D. Bennett, E. Berlin, C. Coleman, C. Sanders, J. McCareins

TE: F. Wycheck, E. Kinney, S. Meier

PK: J. Nedney

20 DEC: Chicago Sun Times on Stephen Davis reports: Redskins, running back Stephen Davis, who leads the NFC with 1,116 yards, is questionable with a bruised knee. Coach Marty Schottenheimer expects him to practice today and play.

20 DEC: Washington Post: (TE) Stephen Alexander, who has been sidelined by a fractured bone in his lower leg, did not practice but did some drills on a side field. Alexander is doubtful for Week #15.

20 DEC: Washington Post: (RB) Stephen Davis sat out yesterday's practice because of a bruised knee but might practice today, Schottenheimer said. The tailback has vowed to play Sunday.

20 DEC: 4for4 on Stephen Davis reports: the Redskins have officially listed (RB) Stephen Davis (knee) as questionable for Week #15. We'll have more on Davis as the week progresses.

19 DEC: Washington Post on Stephen Davis: Redskins (RB) Davis said he intends to be in the Redskins' lineup Sunday against the Bears despite a bruised knee. Davis (knee) is expected to sit out practice today.

18 DEC: Washington Post on Tony Banks: (QB) Banks' job as the Washington Redskins' starting QB remains secure, Coach Marty Schottenheimer said yesterday, despite his poor performance in Sunday's 20-6 loss to the Eagles. The defeat dealt a sharp blow to the team's already precarious playoff hopes. Schottenheimer said he never considered benching Banks, who threw two interceptions and failed to engineer a TD drive as the Redskins dropped to 6-7 and were all but eliminated from contention for the NFC East title or a shot at a wild-card playoff berth.

18 DEC: Washington Post on Ki-Jana Carter: Redskins (RB) Carter was excused from running drills because of lingering soreness from Sunday's game.

18 DEC: Washington Post on Stephen Davis: Redskins (RB) Davis (bruised knee) is hurting. Davis attended team meetings and yesterday's light practice but did not run. "He's sore today, but he has indicated he'll be fine," Schottenheimer said.

RB: S. Davis, K.J. Carter, M. Bates

FB: D. Bennett, B. Johnson

WR: R. Gardner, M. Westbrook, K. Lockett, D. Thompson, D. McCants, E. Metcalf

TE: W. Rasby, Z. Flemister, M. Battaglia, S. Alexander

PK: B. Conway