Topic 37 of 71: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Sat, Aug 23, 1997 (05:00) |
Paul Terry Walhus (terry)
Time for a new season of NFL football. See also our virtual poll.
108 responses total.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 1 of 108: jonathan ovalle (drummerboy) * Sat, Nov 8, 1997 (19:23) * 1 lines
Yea, let's hear it for those Tennessee Oliers !!! Those enormous 12,000 plus crowds are only half of the evil I wish on Bud Adams.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 2 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Sun, Nov 9, 1997 (01:12) * 6 lines
I thought they werent' supposed to take the Oilers name with them?
I feel pretty much the same, like I feel about the Hawks and the
football Cardinals leaving St. Louis. I know about boyce feels
about the departed Browns.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 3 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Wed, Dec 22, 1999 (10:03) * 5 lines
What a great game between the Packers and the Vikings on Monday Night
Football, the game came right down to the last play with Brett Favre
making a (failed) attempt at a touchdown pass. It got picked off and the
Vikes won. I like both these teams. Any cheeseheads in the crowd?
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 4 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Dec 22, 1999 (11:27) * 1 lines
I loved the Packers punt fake and touchdown throw. Amazing and it worked so beautifully. I am not a cheesehead, but I was rooting for them to win. So close...
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 5 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Thu, Dec 23, 1999 (18:39) * 2 lines
I was torn, I like 'em both. I'd have to go with the Vikings if forced to
choose.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 6 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Dec 23, 1999 (19:03) * 1 lines
Jeff George sure has an arm worthy of the best team on the field. I could not believe some of the throws he made Monday night. They definitely deserved to win.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 7 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Fri, Dec 24, 1999 (10:10) * 3 lines
It was a huge game for both teams in the standings. The Vikings had the
game within reach, but just couldn't nail it down this time, even with
Randy Moss.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 8 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Dec 24, 1999 (12:03) * 1 lines
Yup....even at home it was not a given that the Viks would win until the last minute. Don't think anyone left early!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 9 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Dec 28, 1999 (17:33) * 46 lines
Send Page
Tuesday - 17:53 12/28/99, EST
Cablevision Chief the Top Bidder for New York Jets
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Charles Dolan, chairman of media and
telecommunications giant Cablevision Systems Corp. (CVC.N), is the highest
bidder for the New York Jets football team, a source familiar with the situation
told Reuters on Tuesday.
The source indicated that Dolan ``is in the process of working out any
outstanding issues with the National Football League,'' and confirmed that
Dolan offered the highest bid.
The team was put on the block by the family of deceased owner Leon Hess,
in accordance with his wishes. Hess died in May.
The New York Post reported that Dolan's bid was $620 million, although this
could not be confirmed.
The NFL, which must approve the sale, declined to comment. Sources said
potential snarls include Cablevision's ownership of three other professional
sports franchises: the New York Knicks basketball team, the New York
Rangers hockey team, and the New York Liberty women's basketball team.
Cablevision, the nation's sixth largest cable provider, also owns Madison
Square Garden, the famous New York arena that houses the Knicks,
Rangers and Liberty.
Dolan's brother Larry bought the Cleveland Indians baseball team for $320
million in November.
The NFL forbids corporate ownership of its franchises, thus requiring an
individual such as Dolan to be the owner, as opposed to Cablevision.
The Jets deferred comment to Goldman Sachs & Co., the New York
investment house that is advising the Jets on the sale, which was also not
available for comment.
Spokespeople from Cablevision and Dolan's office declined to comment.
The newspaper reported that Dolan's price beats a bid of just under $600
million by Robert Wood Johnson IV, great grandson of one of the founders of
Johnson & Johnson. (JNJ.N). Johnson was not available for comment.
In May, the NFL approved the sale of the Washington Redskins to Maryland
communications executive Daniel Snyder for $800 million, a price that
includes the stadium in which the Redskins play. Local businessman Alfred
Lerner bought the Cleveland Browns expansion team for $530 million in Sept.
1998.
Dolan was reportedly an interested bidder in both teams.
Leon Hess, who also founded the multibillion dollar oil company Amerada
Hess Corp. (AHC.N), was part of a group that controlled the team since 1963,
when the team was named the New York Titans. He bought out the other
owners in 1977.
The Jets, besieged by key injuries this year, have a 7-8 record going into the
last game of the season. The team came within one game of reaching the
Super Bowl last year.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 10 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Tue, Dec 28, 1999 (17:42) * 2 lines
I found out something very interesting Sunday at church.
Tampa buck linebacker Paul Gruber's great, great, great, great, grandfather Franz Gruber wrote the music for Silent Night.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 11 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Dec 28, 1999 (18:03) * 1 lines
Thanks for putting that here. Most interesting and timely and I am sure it is news to most people. I know you are partial to Tampa Bay, but do you think they stand a chance of making it to the Super Bowl? (Love their new uniforms!)
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 12 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Wed, Dec 29, 1999 (22:37) * 2 lines
With this child that they have at quarterback now I think they might have a good chance.
Its always hard for me when its between them and the Vikings.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 13 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Dec 29, 1999 (22:45) * 1 lines
I know...I used to be a Steelers fan and rooted for ABC - Anybody But the Cowboys. Things have changed; I have met real Texans and they have won my heart. I can't believe I am becoming a fan of that team, but until Houston gets their team up and running, I guess I just might be! This year is very odd, though. It is hard for me to decide which team I like anymore!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 14 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Thu, Dec 30, 1999 (10:14) * 1 lines
Who's playing this weekend?
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 15 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Dec 30, 1999 (20:12) * 1 lines
Everybody, I believe. They are not into the playoffs yet! (if you meant the NFL, that is)
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 16 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Fri, Dec 31, 1999 (09:34) * 1 lines
Yep.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 17 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Dec 31, 1999 (11:37) * 2 lines
I'll post it next run-through on telnet. Should be an interesting weekend all round for those who love
football - that means me!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 18 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Wed, Jan 5, 2000 (20:32) * 3 lines
What is the telnet?
Good game between Tampa Bay and Chicage. Nest week is a bye.
Will be watching the Vikings
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 19 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Jan 5, 2000 (20:44) * 5 lines
We did not get that game here (they always give us west coast teams if there is a choice - we saw the Raiders game.)
Telnet: the only thing worse than Yapp software (I am kidding...but only a little!) It is the way the internet was before Windows. It is in DOS and the only color is black and white. no graphics, no pretties, no buttons to click on. You have to type commands to go anywhere...it takes some getting used to, but it was the way I learned w a y back when I first got into computers. No mouse, either. Some people, including our brave and handsome leader, Terry uses almost exclusively on Spring. He does no
see my updating weather maps. All he sees is my command string which puts the image there. But, it sure has its uses. If there is a problem with my posts I can go in and see what I did wrong and why the graphic did not show up like it was supposed to do. I can then correct the problem in the next post...
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 20 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Jan 5, 2000 (20:54) * 33 lines
Ditka, Staff Fired at New Orleans Saints
NEW ORLEANS (Reuters) - New Orleans Saints owner Tom Benson has
decided to completely revamp his woeful team, firing general manager Bill
Kuharich, coach Mike Ditka and his entire staff.
Ditka, who guided New Orleans to a 15-33 mark over three seasons, including
a 3-13 mark this season, was expected to meet with Benson on Thursday.
Instead, the fiery Saints owner returned from vacation a day early and cleaned
out the entire front office.
The move was not unexpected as Benson promised ``major'' changes near
the end of another dismal season. The team has gone seven straight seasons
without a winning record and has never won a playoff game in its 33-year
existence.
``I was grateful for the opportunity. I'm sorry it didn't work out. We tried and
we didn't get it done,'' Ditka said. ``It surprised me. I thought we would get
another year.''
Ditka was awarded a contract extension in August 1998 and was under
contract through the 2002 campaign. He was inducted to the Hall of Fame in
1988, three years after coaching a ferocious Chicago Bears team to a
lopsided Super Bowl XX victory over the New England Patriots.
Kuharich had been with the Saints since 1986 and was in his third season as
to president-GM-chief operating officer.
Kuharich and Ditka made the bold move of giving up a plethora of draft
choices in order to get the chance to select Heisman Trophy winner Ricky
Williams from Texas. But Williams struggled through an injury-plagued rookie
season.
``When you bring Ricky Williams in and it doesn't work out, you have to be
realistic,'' Ditka said. ``Life goes on.''
The 60-year-old Ditka retired in 1992 after 11 seasons with the Bears and
took a four-year break as an NBC studio commentator before being lured
back to the sidelines.
As a player, he made the Pro Bowl five times between 1961-66 with Dallas.
He earned a pair of Super Bowl rings with the* Cowboys, as a player in 1972
and as an assistant coach five years later.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 21 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Sun, Jan 9, 2000 (09:16) * 7 lines
The Saints bet everything on Ricky Williams, then he got hurt. And they
didn't bother shelling out a measly million or so for a decent quarterback
which they needed to give Ricky a shot. Look at Edgerin (sp?) James with
the Colts, he had a great rookie year as a running back because the Colts
had a passing game. Ricky had passing, a great blocking fullback (Ricky
Brown), and a great offensive line at UT. He didn't get that at New
Orleans.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 22 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Jan 9, 2000 (13:54) * 1 lines
You're right. I am curious what will happen is San Francisco with their salary cap, too aged and expensive players (Jerry Rice and Steve Young) and they seriously need players who gan get the job done. It should be interesting to watch. Then there is Green Bay...
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 23 of 108: Barbara1330 (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 18, 2000 (19:18) * 13 lines
I grew up in South Florida and was always a Dolphin fan, then a Dolphin and Buc fan and now that we live near Tampa, of course the Bucs are my favorite team at the present time. I was shocked that we beat the Redskins on Saturday. I have an email friend in DC and I had already typed out "Hail to the Redskins..." and was ready to send it!
I also have a soft spot in my heart for the Steelers since we lived there for three years.
But, my biggest question to all of you football fans is: What do you think is going to happen in Miami with the Dolphins? And, does anyone know if the Steelers will be better off without Tom Donohoe? My guess is that they are willing to take the chance and it's probably easier to get general manager than a good coach. I think Cowher would have been hired pretty quickly by someone. One of the things that I saw that the Steelers did wrong was to let all the free agents go. Pretty soon, the team was de
leted of players. I guess things got very ugly there.
Anyway... I'd love to read any and all opinions.
Joe Theisman, on espn site, predicts a Titan win and would be very shocked if Tampa won.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 24 of 108: Barbara1330 (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 18, 2000 (19:20) * 1 lines
oops.. make that depleted of players...
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 25 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 18, 2000 (19:29) * 1 lines
I sent a copy of your posts to my Hilo expert, John. I hope TB wins. Miami is beneath my contempt, thanks to Jimmy Johnson. I am not a big fan of his and when Dan Marino was QB for Pitt, he beat Penn State all the years he started. I just like them a little because they have O.J. McDuffy on the team.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 26 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 18, 2000 (20:05) * 38 lines
As promised (hoped for, actually)From John Burnett:
I have thoughts, but I don't have a crystal ball. My record as a sports
prognosticator, quite frankly, stinks. That's why I don't bet, more than
any moral outrage over the practice. Still, since my thoughts are just
that--thoughts, and I have never been shy about what I think, here goes.
Cowher is a fine coach and I'm glad Pittsburgh was willing to stick with him
during a lean couple of years. If they get a good football person in the GM
position, they will be glad they stuck with Cowher.
I can't express how profoundly I admire Dan Marino and hate Jimmy Johnson,
despite his record as a winner. Johnson, to me, is the perfect example of a
"win at all costs" personality: sportsmanship and citizenship be damned, if
need be. He consistently had unsportsmanlike and criminal behavior on his
teams as U. of Miami's (Florida) head coach...won three Super Bowls in
Dallas with a team that had a rap sheet longer than Capone's and would have
put Lawrence Phillips and his well-documented problems with the law and
society in general in the backfield if he thought he could control him. I
think that Miami is at the cusp of a down cycle. Marino may play another
year, but the Dolphins need to find younger talent, at quarterback and at
key line positions, linebacker and in the defensive backfield.
As for Tampa Bay. I love Tony Dungy. He was passed over many times for head
coaching positions when he deserved a shot, mostly because he was black and
partially because he comes across as cerebral rather than emotional. I
think he has done wonders with this young ballclub. They are defense-minded,
no surprise since Dungy is a career defensive coordinator with a great run
at Pittsburgh. But I think they are still on the way up and this is not yet
their year. Quarterback Shawn King is just a rookie, albeit a fine one and
a diamond strike within a vein of tin. They have a bruiser of a back in
Alstott. But I think Mr. Theismann is right. It looks like midnight for
Cinderella at the fancy ball.
St. Louis and Jacksonville look almost unstoppable at this point and I think
it will be those two (featuring two guys--Kurt Warner and Mark Brunell--who
were backup quarterbacks at Green Bay to Brett Favre)in the final cotillion.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 27 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 18, 2000 (20:08) * 2 lines
Pumpkin time for Tampa Bay? How disappointing. Wait'll next year!!!
Thanks, John...splendid job as usual. Must be great to have profundities pour out of your fingers every time you sit at the keyboard. You, my dear, are wired right!!!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 28 of 108: Barbara1330. (Barbara1330) * Wed, Jan 19, 2000 (07:30) * 14 lines
Gosh, Marcia... more than I expected and great comments, John. I hate to be so personal in my feelings but I've always had a strong dislike for JJ since the year they beat us (the Seminoles) by stealing our plays. We are sure they did this. (The Gators also did this to us one year by having someone impersonate a student but don't ask me how JJ accomplished his!!!) I was really sorry to see him go to Miami and felt bad for Dan. I thought Don Shula had a much better plan and that was to take advantage
f the talent he had rather than trying to fit the talent into a system the way JJ does.
Also, John, what do you think of Kordell Stewart's chances of being the franchise QB? I really had high hopes for him and especially when Cowher kissed him on the sidelines, I thought the team was set. But, you know what happened in the last year and the year before wasn't so great either. Having not read all the press in Pittsburgh, I can't comment too thoroughly but I do believe that Cowher, who has a lovely family, was followed by rumors of affairs, etc. This was a horrible thing for that family to go
through. He has two or three daughters who are adorable and a lovely wife. And, I read there were rumors about Kordell, also, similar to the gay rumors about Troy Aikman in Dallas. (noted in the book Hell Bent, by Skip Bayless)
I'm glad to talk to another who appreciates Tony D. He is the best thing to ever hit Tampa and a great coach and man. Notice that he did get lots of criticism for not drafting Moss but then, after Moss squirts an official with a water bottle, I'm sure Tony is feeling that he did make the right decision. Plus, Dilfer couldn't get the ball to him, anyway, and we don't throw all that much. (which is frustrating for me because I do love the long passing game.)
I'm glad you said "might" be the end for Tampa, because that's what I was thinking last week, and you really do never know. Remember, there is a reason they play the games!!! (I really think this is the end but I want to portray a positive image.)
That's all I can think of for the moment!!!!
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 29 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (08:33) * 1 lines
I kind of like hometown St. Louis chances this year.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 30 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (17:07) * 21 lines
From John Burnett
I don't know what to think of Kordell Stewart. He's a great talent but
outside of one good year has been inconsistent (the second coming of Neil
O'Donnell). I'm not interested in rumors of sexual preference or
infidelity...until someone has proof, rumors are just that. That stuff is
for the tabloids. NFL and NBA players have fathered more children out of
wedlock than all the sperm banks in America combined. They couldn't do it
without willing partners. To me the only issue is once the babies are made,
do they take care of them? If the answer is no, then you have a true
character issue. Every coach and player in the league who is worth anything
respects Tony Dungy. Not because there are no rumors. Because he is a
great coach. As a media person, I found Shula haughty, condescending and
almost inaccessible, but you can't argue with the results he had in 30 years
of coaching...especially in 1972, which made up for being upset in the Super
Bowl in 1970 with the Colts. A lot of media people would also give the same
appraisal of Joe Paterno, who once quipped, "If I were to get a brain
transplant, I'd want the donor to be a sportswriter. Then I'll know the
brain has never been used." I don't have to like a person to respect him.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 31 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (17:08) * 1 lines
Joe Paterno really said that? I had not heard that, but John's word is Gospel truth to me, so I guess he did...*sigh*
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 32 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (18:01) * 4 lines
Good for Joe Paterno. It really ticks me off when they sit up there telling what should have been done. Hindsight makes geniuses.
Tony Dungy likes the players who are members of the Fellowhip Of Christian Athletes in which he is very active.
Don't be too surprised if Sean pulls another one out of the hat. I just hope that Warren Sapp is ready to play.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 33 of 108: Barbara1330 (Barbara1330) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (18:15) * 14 lines
Marcia,
It sounds to me as though Joe P. was joking when he said that about the sport's writer's brain! I would certainly take it that way.
John, if you don't mind telling, what kind of media person are or were you? I appreciate your comments. I hope Kordell can get his act together and be the qb that I had hoped he would be.
I heard Don Shula on an interview on Sunshine Network Live talking about Dan Marino. He said he thought Dan would definitely remain a Dolphin and would not go to another team if he did indeed play next year. He is heavily rooting for the Bucs, of course, because his son Mike is offensive coordinator of the Bucs.
I agree about the rumors but only mentioned them to show the kind of horrible pressures that athletes live with. (and all famous people for that matter.)
At least that's what I was thinking when I mentioned them.
I'm pretty excited about the games this week end. I hope the Bucs can play with the Rams and don't embarrass themselves by having a lousy game. I really can't make a prediction because my heart is too Buc oriented.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 34 of 108: sportsbabe Not! (MarciaH) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (18:36) * 2 lines
re Paterno of the Penn State Nittany Lions (Sorry! Could not help myself)He tends to be a dour sort. Whether it is from shyness or something else, he covers it with bruskness and Brooklyn attitude. I would hope he was kidding. John is amongst many things a peerless sports play-by-play man and a writer of rare skill on all thing, but particularly on sports. He has coached and he has participated in sports on many levels (This is necessarily brief just in case he has the time to fill in the gaps I am l
aving.)
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 35 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (19:07) * 8 lines
John Sez
Joe Paterno's a great coach. The record speaks for itself. And he's
certainly not alone in not liking or at least being uncomfortable around the
media. I don't know what his real personality is like. He doesn't show it
to the media. Maybe he's a robot. He hasn't aged in 30 years. Of course,
we in the media have our own robot: Dick Clark.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 36 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Jan 20, 2000 (21:01) * 6 lines
John:
I'm sure the sportswriter comment was a joke. He is definitely not
comfortable with the media, though and will speak to very few. At least he
isn't as openly hostile as Bobby Knight or Bob Huggins are.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 37 of 108: Barbara1330 (Barbara1330) * Fri, Jan 21, 2000 (04:39) * 3 lines
Bobby Knight. What can I say? I'm sure he's a great coach but as a person... Yuck. Would it have been so hard for him to say something diplomatic about the Steve Alford situation? (I guess so!) IT's sad to me that this is a man so universally admired by so many.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 38 of 108: Barbara1330 (Barbara1330) * Fri, Jan 21, 2000 (06:32) * 5 lines
This might be of interest to Buc fans and to Dolphin fans. There's some speculation about Dan Marino.
http://www.sptimes.com/News/011700/Sports/Bucs_fortunate_JJ_sai.shtml
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 39 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Fri, Jan 21, 2000 (15:20) * 3 lines
So, Terry, what is the St. Louis Rams fight song like? (This is in case I have to sing it for you if the Rams win.)
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 40 of 108: sometime sportsbabe (MarciaH) * Fri, Jan 21, 2000 (16:13) * 1 lines
Interesting sports page with great links. Thanks for posting it. Please don't even think of learning the Ram's fight song...not till after this weekend, anyway! Don't wanna jinx them, huh!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 41 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Sat, Jan 22, 2000 (10:21) * 6 lines
Marcia,
Last week, I had
Hail to the Redskins all typed out and ready to send to a friend of mine in D.C... So, I was really thinking that if I had the words to the Rams song and could type them in an email, ready to go, then, it just might bring the Bucs the good luck that they are surely going to need!
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 42 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Jan 22, 2000 (12:34) * 1 lines
Yup! I know the feeling...Hail to the Redskins is the only fight song of a pro team I do know...but it is irrelevant this year. I cannot think of how any of the others sound! Only 24 hours to wait...and I am gonna be up to my ears in rain trying to watch opening day for the UHHilo Softball season. Bring SCUBA and wetsuit!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 43 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Sat, Jan 22, 2000 (16:16) * 18 lines
Speaking of fight songs... here's one I know.
Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins,
Miami Dolphins, Number One...
(lots of other words follow...
leading up to....
So, when you say "Miami"
You're talking Super Bowl...
This song was very popular during the undefeated 1972 season and
I was totally shocked to hear the same song sung by the...
Houston Oilers... with different words, mind you, but the same
tune and song.
It's cold here in Tampa Bay and I have the heat on. Have a good
at the baseball field and give us a report when you get back.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 44 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Sat, Jan 22, 2000 (17:45) * 6 lines
I don't know the Rams fight song, the Bucs are going to need not only luck
but defense, they're going to pit their best defense in football against
the best offense. This may be the big game of the year, moreso than the
Superbowl.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 45 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sat, Jan 22, 2000 (20:59) * 1 lines
The semifinal game being better than the Superbowl will not be new to me. It seems it has been that way for about 10 or more years!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 46 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Sun, Jan 23, 2000 (04:29) * 16 lines
The Jacksonville and Titan game should be an interesting one, also.
It will be something if the Titans can pull off another win.
Sometimes, one team just has another team's number and is able to
beat them. Jacksonville was usually able to beat the Steelers every
time. That was annoying to me, since it ocurred when we were in PA
rooting for PA.
The Titans came to Tampa Bay last season and beat us badly. We
just could not stop Eddie George and I don't remember the score,
but I know it was decisive victory for them and painful for me
to watch.
This should be a great football day. Good luck to all the teams
and may the best teams win!!!!
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 47 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Jan 23, 2000 (10:29) * 1 lines
...on any given Sunday... I am sure this will be the best football day of them all as far as NFL goes. Have your bean dip shaped football and munchies all ready? Tall cool ones on ice? I am still wondering what to have for breakfast when all of that other more papatable food is sitting there waiting for my consumption of same. The teams who want it the most will win. I just hope none of them are blow-outs. Cheers, and the best team Will win - or they are not the best team...*grin*
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 48 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Jan 23, 2000 (19:05) * 1 lines
Ok, now who're you gonna root for next week? It's the last football game of the year, so we hafta watch...It's the last fix we get till the Hall of Fame game in August or the Kickoff Classic.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 49 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Sun, Jan 23, 2000 (19:12) * 1 lines
Well, they were not blow-outs...they were boring. Too bad the most important one had to hinge on a dubious call.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 50 of 108: Paul Terry Walhus (terry) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (10:47) * 1 lines
St. Louis, my hometown.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 51 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (11:50) * 1 lines
I thought it was Springfield. OK, Lets root for Terry's team (even though it does not pass the PSDU test. But, neither does Tennessee...)
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 52 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (12:23) * 28 lines
A new arrival in Hell was brought before the devil. The
devil told his demon to put the man to work on a rock
pile with a 20-pound sledgehammer in 95-degree heat with
95% humidity.
At the end of the day, the devil went to see how the man
was doing, only to find him smiling and singing as he
pounded rocks. The man explained that the heat and hard
labor were very similar to those on his beloved farm back
in Tennessee.
The devil told his demon to turn up the heat to 120
degrees, with 100% humidity. At the end of the next day,
the devil again checked on the new man, and found him
still happy to be sweating and straining. The man
explained that it felt like the old days, when he had to
clean out his silo in the middle of August on his beloved
farm back in Tennessee.
At that, the devil told his demon to lower the temperature
for this man to -20 degrees with a 40-mph wind. At the end
of the next day, the devil was confident that he would find
the man miserable. But, the man was instead singing louder
than ever, twirling the sledgehammer like a baton.
When the devil asked him why he was so happy, the man
answered, "It's a cold day in Hell! The Titans must be
going to the Super Bowl!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 53 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (16:29) * 4 lines
Congratulations, Terry. I would sing the Rams fight song
for you if you or I knew the words!!!
Barbara :)
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 54 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (17:17) * 30 lines
New York Jets Name Al Groh As Coach
HEMPSTEAD, New York (Reuters) - Al Groh has spent a good portion of his
career following Bill Parcells. He now follows Parcells as the coach of the
New York Jets.
Unable to convince Parcells to remain on the sidelines, new Jets owner
Robert Wood Johnson IV today named Groh, a 55-year-old Long Island
native, as the 14th coach in franchise history.
Groh, a linebackers coach the last three seasons, received a four-year
contract at undisclosed terms to face the enticing yet daunting task of
following Parcells, his close friend who took two different teams to the Super
Bowl.
The only previous head coaching experience for Groh came at Wake Forest
from 1981-86, when he compiled a 26-40 record.
Groh was linebackers coach for Parcells with the New York Giants in 1989
and 1990, a term that included a Super Bowl victory. He was defensive
coordinator for the Giants under Ray Handley in 1991 after Parcells retired for
the first time.
In 1992, Groh was an assistant under Belichick in Cleveland before being
reunited with Parcells in a four-year run as an assistant with the New England
Patriots. When Parcells took over the Jets in 1997, Groh came along.
Groh was raised in Manhasset, New York a short drive from the Jets' training
complex and has had a transient career that included 12 stops in 32 years.
His son, Matt, was a quarterback at Princeton last fall.
Groh inherits a team that won seven of its last nine games and will be
considered a possible Super Bowl contender with the return of quarterback
Vinny Testaverde from a torn Achilles tendon. While he will seek Parcells'
advise, he left no doubt who will be in charge.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 55 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (17:39) * 28 lines
Chiefs Linebacker Thomas Suffers Fractured Spine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Reuters) - Kansas City Chiefs star linebacker Derrick
Thomas, who suffered two spinal fractures after a car accident on Sunday but
was in good condition, will be moved to a Florida hospital for treatment,
hospital and team officials said on Monday.
``They will be transporting him later today to Miami,'' said Liberty Hospital
spokeswoman Mary Cummings. ``He does have two fractures in his spine,
but he is in good condition.''
Cummings said doctors did not know ``to what degree and how permanent''
the partial paralysis is for the nine-time NFL Pro Bowl player.
Chiefs' president Carl Peterson and team physicians met with Thomas and
his family in making the decision to move him out of Kansas City, Cummings
said.
Thomas, 33, will be transferred to Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, which
has a worldwide reputation for the treatment of spinal injuries, team officials
said.
Team physician Jon Browne said Thomas has ``some neurological
impairment, which has continued to evolve'' but has good use of his upper
extremities and his upper chest area.
Thomas was injured and a friend was killed when a sudden winter storm hit
the Kansas City area while he was driving. He lost control of his sports-utility
vehicle when it slid on a patch of icy roadway, struck the median and rolled
several times, according to Missouri Highway Patrol spokesman John Hotz.
Thomas and Michael Tellis, a friend and former business partner, were
ejected from the vehicle. Tellis died at the scene. Neither Thomas nor Tellis
was wearing a seat belt, the highway patrol said. A third passenger who was
wearing a seat belt was slightly injured.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 56 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Mon, Jan 24, 2000 (20:21) * 5 lines
When will people learn to use seat belts? If my long time friends hadn't been wearing them this fall they would both be dead. As it is they are still nursing broken ribs, which take forever to heal.
I will be pulling for the Rams.
That way I can say that the Buc's were beaten by the best. It was a good game though. I think a lot of people were surprised that the Rams were held to so few points.
The Buc's need a better offensive line. I don't know if Jason Odom will be back or not but I hope so.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 57 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (01:09) * 1 lines
Wait til the draft and all the trades sort themselves out. Next year and in the following years I think TB will be very hard to beat. Go Rams!!!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 58 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (15:36) * 5 lines
The papers are talking about lots of changes in Tampa Bay. I hear rumors but don't know many details. One thing Mike Alstott said on his radio show yesterday was that they play as a team and lose as a team and the offense and defense don't blame each other. This is good and shows what a great coach Tony is. Hopefully, he can make the changes that need to be made and get the players we need to be more competitive.
I'm rooting for the Titans in the big game. Sorry, Terry and Marcia, and Lucy... Get the words to that Ram fight song, ready though!
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 59 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (16:53) * 10 lines
Here is the Penn State contribution to the NFL
http://www.psu.edu/sports/football/history/psunfl.html
I note that there are two in TBm Tyoka Jackson and Reggie Givens
We have on Tennessee Titans: Mike Archie and Terry Killens
There is not one single PSU player on the entire Rams roster.
Guess you know what is going on inside my head, but the best team WILL win.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 60 of 108: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (19:15) * 2 lines
Mike should take some lessons on how to hold on to the ball. How many time did he fumble right at the goal line.
I really like Warrick Dunn. He is raising 5 brothers and sisters on his own plus helping low income families get homes by making the down payments on the houses.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 61 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (19:35) * 1 lines
Yup! Mile needs pine tar or whatever stickum to make the ball stay in his hands! It is going to be interesting to see Warrick Dunn mature as a player. He can really make a big difference in the world as well as on the field!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 62 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (19:51) * 8 lines
I love Warrick Dunn. He's been a favorite of mine since his days at FSU. A funny coincidence but it was Doug Williams who brought Warrick to Bobby Bowden's attention and then, Warrick roomed with Charlie Ward at FSU. It's so sad that his mother was killed when he was so young but he has been such a fine young man. Whenever he gets the ball, I close my eyes and hope no one hurts him.
(I know I miss some game action that way, but I can't help it.)
It's still a little painful for me to watch the Super Bowl hype and I'm glad it's just one week long.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 63 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (19:55) * 4 lines
Just checked a web site wfts.com and it reports that the Bucs have
chosen not to keep Dilfer and he is now a free agent.
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 64 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (20:04) * 6 lines
Hate to post a hundred times... but I just read something
about Anthony Dorsett. He played at Pitt when we were in Johnstown. Marcia, I'm sure you remember the year the game between Pitt and Penn State was a scoring match and ended with a win by Penn State, of course. Pitt was so lousy but Anthony was one good player. Now he's with the Titans.
I hate to admit this, Marcia, but I did root for Pitt only because they were the underdogs and needed a fan more than Penn State did!!!
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 65 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (20:28) * 1 lines
Hey, where is it written that you can't root for the team you want to win. This is America and all is forgiven! Pitt was our nemesis when I was there. They beat us consistenetly and thoroughly...which is why I am not a huge fan of Dan Marino even though he deserves better, and really don't like Bear Bryant or Jackie Sherrill. OK how attack me in St Bear's defense... I remember Tony Dorset when he pronounced it DORset...
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 66 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Jan 25, 2000 (20:29) * 1 lines
Oh, if it makes you feel any better, by good buddy John once bet against Penn State and lost. He never bet again!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 67 of 108: Barbara M. (Barbara1330) * Wed, Jan 26, 2000 (06:16) * 11 lines
I'm not a betting person. Once, one of the bag boys at Publix, where
I shopped during the Wide right fiascos when FSU kept losing to Miami,
bet his whole salary that FSU would lose. Well, I told him not to do it,
but would he listen? Nooooo. So, that was one of the years we beat
them.
I'd never bet against Penn State. There's just too much winning tradition
there.
Hugs,
Barbara
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 68 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 1, 2000 (13:59) * 1 lines
Regarding betting against Penn State, John told me he never would again as he lost the one time he did! I am also not a betting person, and I am never sure about PSU until the game is over. We seem to play our worst when the gods of football and everyone on TV can watch us do it! Why is it I feel responsible for their poor performances?!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 69 of 108: terry (sprin5) * Thu, Feb 3, 2000 (08:42) * 1 lines
Goodbye NFL 97, 98 and 99. Hello NFL 2000.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 70 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Feb 3, 2000 (13:15) * 1 lines
Excellent! Lots going on pre-draft-wise. Should be a very interesting off-season.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 71 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Feb 3, 2000 (13:18) * 21 lines
Missing posts from Lucie:
Response 73 of 76: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Mon, Jan 31, 2000 (21:29) * 4 lines
I really thought the Titans were going to pull off a miracle. This was the best Super Bowl game in many years.
Dante Culpepper was born in prison where his mother is serving time. He was adopted by a little lady who gave him a
strict religeous upbringing, keeping him on the straight and narrow. She worked to get him into college and he gives her
credit for everything he has accomplished. None of the bigger schools were interested in him when he was seeking a
scolarship but when he started setting records at UCF a lot of them tried to get him to change schools. He stayed with
UCF because he said his mother had taug
t him the meaning of loyality and UCF was the school who gave him his chance.
Response 74 of 76: Marcia (MarciaH) * Tue, Feb 1, 2000 (11:33) * 1 lines
Wow! Thanks for posting that, Lucie. This Superbowl is fraught with human-interest (there is an animal interest category?)
stories. I am impressed with this man!
Response 75 of 76: Lucille Oftedahl (alyeska) * Tue, Feb 1, 2000 (20:48) * 1 lines
His adopted mother is in her eighties now and has arthritis pretty bad but he make sure she is there when he wins an
award or anthing else important in his life.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 72 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Feb 9, 2000 (11:01) * 11 lines
Bad news for the Minnesota Vikings?
VonAppen hired by Vikings
Star-Bulletin staff and wire
Former University of Hawaii head coach Fred vonAppen was named defensive line coach of
the Minnesota Vikings today. VonAppen, who coached the Rainbows from 1996-1998,
replaces Andre Patterson, who took a similar position with the Dallas Cowboys. VonAppen
coached with Vikings head coach Dennis Green when the two of them were with the San
Francisco 49ers. VonAppen was the 49ers defensive line coach from 1983-86, during which
time the team won a Super Bowl. VonAppen was 5-31 as head coach of the Rainbows. He
spent this past season as a volunteer assistant at the University of Washington.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 73 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Feb 9, 2000 (14:31) * 38 lines
Any thoughts on this new "Football" League?
Expect the worst from WWF's football
By Dave Kindred - The Sporting News
Here I am, at the dawn of a new millennium, thinking thoughts unthought by any thinker of
the old millennium.
I'm thinking of Chief Sleazoid Vince McMahon and his World Wrestling Federation's
announcement that it will create, in the winter of 2001, a professional football league to be
called the XFL, as in Xtreme, Xciting and Xplosive.
Personally, I would consider the XFL to be Xcruciating, Xpendable and Xcreta.
But it's also inevitable, so we might as well deal with it. It's inevitable because for a
decade now the major league sports of football, baseball and basketball have been
making the games themselves marginal, selling the Xperience as much as the
competition.
More and more, my feeling is, the competition itself is sold as secondary to the
Xperience. The next step would be to render the games absolutely inconsequential.
Now comes the WWF to do just that.
"Wherrrre's myyyy fooootballllll?" McMahon moaned shortly after Super Bowl XXXIV left
the stage. His press-conference act included a call for "smash-mouth, wide-open
football." And he promised, in his most pandering way, that his XFL would "give the fans
what they want."
His idea of what football fans want, I presume, would be that they want a show, not a
sports contest. They'd want the same stuff that McMahon has used to make a silly little
regional rasslin' organization into a billion-dollar marketing phenomenon.
That stuff would be sex, sadism, violence, racism and homophobia.
The scary thing is, it might just work sensationally. By the time the XFL loads its rosters
with the NFL's leftovers, the quality of football will be poor.
But McMahon's shows have never been about quality; they're cartoons that allow
customers to see their fears, prejudices and darkest passions acted out in public. There's
an insatiable audience for such stuff; it's just never been sold to an audience as a
legitimate sports event.
I am reminded of a 1970s movie called "Rollerball." Set in the early decades of the 21st
century, the movie transformed the rasslin'-like shtick of Roller Derby into mayhem
involving knives, razors and other cutting tools with rules allowing/demanding the ultimate
penalty, death.
Maybe the XFL will institute capital punishment for kickers who miss field-goal attempts to
win in the last second. Heaven knows, many an NFL fan has wanted just that.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 74 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 1, 2000 (22:04) * 37 lines
I know this isn't the NFL - but at this time of year it will have to do:
Arena League Back; Players to Act As Bargaining Unit
CHICAGO (Reuters) - The Arena Football League is back in business.
Six days after canceling the 2000 season, the league today was notified that
an overwhelming majority of players have given the Arena Football League
Players' Organization Committee authorization to act as their exclusive
collective bargaining unit.
Owners had decided to counter the potential formation of a players union by
canceling the season.
``We want to thank all of our fans, sponsors and other business partners for
their support,'' said Commissioner David Baker. ``The players have spoken,
the owners have responded and the fans have won.''
Last week's news demolished the high-paced, indoor league that became
even more of an intrigue this season with the emergence of Kurt Warner, who
went from Iowa Barnstormers star to NFL hero.
Warner was named Most Valuable Player of the NFL and Super Bowl this
past season.
Arena League training camps will open March 19. The regular season will
begin April 13 with a game between the defending champion Albany Firebirds
and Nashville Kats televised live on TNN.
``After the tremendous exposure provided by the NFL and Super Bowl MVP
Kurt Warner, a former Iowa Barnstormer, and the 42 other Arena Football
League participants who contributed to the NFL this past year, we expect the
2000 Arena Football season to be the greatest ever,'' Baker said.
In a drastic move aimed at countering the players' request to have Local 781
of the Teamsters in Chicago act as their exclusive bargaining representative,
league officials wiped out the upcoming campaign on Thursday.
On February 4, Arena players filed a class action lawsuit against the league
in U.S. District Court in Newark, New Jersey. The suit alleged the league
violated antitrust laws by conspiring to keep down salaries. The average
salary in the Arena League is roughly $30,000.
The suit also alleged the league had no players association or year-round
health insurance. Early reports had nearly half of the league's 640 players
seeking union representation.
With today's news, Arena Football will have two leagues in action this
season, with the 16-team minor league, arenafootball2, still scheduled to
begin play this year.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 75 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 9, 2000 (11:31) * 39 lines
Monday Night Football begins overhaul
HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - Former NBC West Coast president Don Ohlmeyer
is returning to his sports broadcasting roots, signing a two-year, seven-figure
deal to serve as executive producer of ABC's ``Monday Night Football.''
Ohlmeyer cut his producing teeth on ``MNF'' in 1972-77, serving as producer
of the broadcast for several seasons during the legendary era of announcers
Howard Cosell, Frank Gifford and Don Meredith.
In addition, ABC has sacked ``MNF'' commentator Boomer Esiason after just
two seasons, with producer Ken Wolfe and director Craig Janoff also getting
pinkslips. The pigskin franchise, which has suffered steady ratings erosion in
recent years, will undergo a radical overhaul under Ohlmeyer.
ABC Sports president Howard Katz announced the changes late Tuesday. He
did not say who would replace Esiason. Play-by-play announcer Al Michaels
will remain with the broadcast.
Since assuming control of ABC Sports last year, Katz has been on a mission
to restore the ABC Sports brand identity to its former glory. In the years
following Disney's purchase of ABC, execs had tried to turn the sports unit
into an offshoot of Mouse-owned sports cable network ESPN.
In an interview with Daily Variety, Ohlmeyer said his job would be to make
``MNF'' a weekly big-ticket broadcast.
``Can you make 'Monday Night Football' something that has more impact
than just another football game?'' he asked rhetorically. ``I don't know, but
that's what the challenge is.''
Ohlmeyer declined to say who might get the Esiason gig or what other
changes might be in the works. He did indicate his intent was not to simply
go retro.
``We can't bring Howard (Cossell) back from the grave,'' he said, ``and we
can't bring Don (Meredith) back from Santa Fe.''
``MNF'' had its worst Nielsen numbers ever last season, averaging a 13.7
household rating, down a tad from the year before.
Sports industry analysts have already speculated that ABC may attempt to
woo former Jets coach Bill Parcells or newly retired Jimmy Johnson into the
broadcast booth. John Elway and Steve Young have also been mentioned as
candidates.
ABC approached Ohlmeyer about returning late last year, but he initially
resisted. He ultimately came around, and a deal to bring him back was
worked out relatively quickly, insiders said. Ohlmeyer handed over his NBC
West Coast president reins to Scott Sassa last June.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 76 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 10, 2000 (13:38) * 99 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, March 10, 2000
-----------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE:
1. Marino Offered Minnesota's Starting QB Job
2. Jets Considering Trading Keyshawn Johnson
3. Trent Dilfer Lands In Baltimore
4. This Week's Transactions
+------ Marino Offered Minnesota's Starting QB Job ------+
MINNEAPOLIS - Dan Marino was offered Minnesota's starting
quarterback job last week in talks with Vikings coach
Dennis Green, according to broadcast reports. ESPN and Fox
Sports Net, citing unidentified sources, said Sunday night
Green assured the former Miami Dolphins star he would be
the starter. Marino, who has not attracted much interest
from other teams, also is considering retirement. The
38-year-old quarterback, the NFL's career leading passer,
became a free agent last month after voiding his contract
with Miami.
Minnesota has decided not to re-sign starter Jeff George,
and plans to release Randall Cunningham. The Vikings are
hesitant to hand over the starting job to Daunte Culpepper,
the team's No. 1 draft pick last year.
+------- Jets Considering Trading Keyshawn Johnson -------+
NEW YORK - The New York Jets are considering trading Pro Bowl
receiver Keyshawn Johnson and have talked to the Baltimore
Ravens about acquiring the fifth pick in the upcoming draft.
A source familiar with the talks told The Associated Press
Monday night that the Jets want Atlanta's first-round pick,
fifth overall, which the Ravens own, plus a player or another
draft pick. The Ravens have spoken with several teams about
the No. 5 choice. New York already owns the 16th and 18th
overall choices and is eager to deal into the top three
should they obtain the fifth spot.
+------------ Trent Dilfer Lands In Baltimore -----------+
BALTIMORE - After six years, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost
faith in the abilities of Trent Dilfer this offseason but
late Wednesday the veteran NFL quarterback got a chance to
revive his career when, according to various published and
broadcast reports, he was signed to a one-year, $1 million
contract by the Baltimore Ravens. USA Today reported the
deal included a $550,000 signing bonus.
He understands as he joins his new team that he will be
first and foremost the backup to Tony Banks. The Ravens did
not confirm his signing. Ironically, Dilfer basically has
traded places with Eric Zeier, the Ravens' former No. 2
signal-caller, who is now the backup for the Buccaneers.
Dilfer's days in Tampa Bay basically ended when he suffered
a broken collarbone in the Buccaneers' 16-3 win at Seattle
Nov. 28 and was replaced by Shawn King. He became an unre-
stricted free agent this offseason when the Bucs decided
not exercise their option on the final two years of his
contract, worth an estimated $4.6 million.
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Chicago Bears -- Agreed to terms with free agent safety Shawn
Wooden, who had been with the Miami Dolphins, on a three-year,
$3.6 million contract.
Cincinnati Bengals -- Signed free agent safety Darryl Williams,
who had been with Cincinnati Bengals, to a three-year contract.
Denver Broncos -- Signed unrestricted free agent quarterback
Gus Frerotte, who had been with the Detroit Lions; acquired
safety Billy Jenkins from the St. Louis Rams for future
considerations; waived safety Darrius Johnson.
Green Bay Packers -- Named Darrell Bevell offensive assistant
for quality control.
Kansas City Chiefs -- Signed wide receivers Scott Cloman, Kirby
Dar Dar, quarterbacks Marcus Crandell and Bill Lindquist,
fullbacks Chris Gall and Vershan Jackson, punter Nick Gallery,
centers Grant Garrett and Brian Waters, cornerback Ray Jackson,
guard Rob Murphy, tight end Melvin Pearsall, linebackers Tim
Terry and Jason Toren, and guard Donald Willis.
Miami Dolphins -- Signed running back Thurman Thomas to a
three-year contract; acquired punter Matt Turk from the
Washington Redskins for a seventh-round pick in 2001.
Minnesota Vikings -- Re-signed fullback Harold Morrow;
signed cornerback Paul Bradford.
New England Patriots -- Released cornerback Corey Ivey.
New Orleans Saints -- Signed center Jason McEndoo and wide
receiver Robert Wilson to one-year contracts.
New York Jets -- Announced the retirement of offensive
lineman John Elliott.
Philadelphia Eagles -- Signed unrestricted free agent
fullback Stanley Pritchett, who had been with the Miami
Dolphins, to a four-year contract; re-signed defensive
tackle Kelly Gregg to a one-year contract.
San Diego Chargers -- Re-signed unrestricted free agent
cornerback Darryll Lewis to a two-year contract; released
running back Natrone Means; re-signed unrestricted free agent
punter Darren Bennett.
Tennessee Titans -- Named Mike Heimerdinger offensive
coordinator; promoted George Henshaw to assistant head
coach-offense.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 77 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Mar 15, 2000 (14:08) * 22 lines
When did it stop being a game?!
Three Suspended Under NFL's Anti-Violence Policy
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Facing a growing public relations problem with
off-the-field violence, the NFL suspended three players two games apiece
under the league's new anti-crime policy.
Guard Matt O'Dwyer and recently retired tackle Jumbo Elliott were each
suspended without pay for the first two games of the 2000 season for their
involvement in a bar fight last July. Both were members of the New York Jets
when the incident occurred, although O'Dwyer signed with the Cincinnati
Bengals before the 1999 season.
O'Dwyer pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and third-degree assault and
was sentenced to probation. Elliott pleaded guilty to harassment and
disorderly conduct and was sentenced to community service.
Jets tackle Jason Fabini, who was also involved in the fight, was fined
$14,000 by the NFL, the equivalent of his salary for one game.
Denard Walker, the starting left cornerback for the AFC champion Tennessee
Titans, was also suspended without pay for the first two games after pleading
guilty to assault on the mother of his son. He was sentenced to probation.
The suspensions and fines come after the NFL has come under fire for
off-the-field violence involving players. Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis
and former Carolina Panthers receiver Rae Carruth are facing murder charges.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 78 of 108: MarkG (MarkG) * Thu, Mar 16, 2000 (03:21) * 1 lines
The NFL pays millions of bucks to field some of the hardest, meanest, most aggressive men in America. It can't be surprising if not all of them change characters completely every time the gun goes off (to end the game).
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 79 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Thu, Mar 16, 2000 (12:42) * 1 lines
True...especially when they have been taking "supplements" which increase aggression along with bulk. I think no one is surprised. Is the NFL the only macho group fighting this problem?
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 80 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 17, 2000 (12:38) * 128 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, March 17, 2000
------------------------------------------------------------
IN THIS ISSUE:
1. Dan Marino Retires After 17 Years
2. NFL Suspends Four Players
3. Witness Provides Evidence in Ray Lewis Case
4. This Week's Transactions
+-------- Dan Marino Retires After 17 Years --------+
DAVIE, Fla. - Dan Marino retired Monday after 17 years
as quarterback of the Miami Dolphins. "I'm going to
miss it," Marino said, struggling to keep his composure
at a news conference. "I'm going to miss everything
about it."
The 38-year-old Marino wanted to go out like John Elway
and retire as a Super Bowl champion. But after parting
ways with the Dolphins, he reluctantly rejected an offer
to play this year for the Minnesota Vikings.
Marino's wife, children, parents and former coach Don
Shula were with him for the news conference in the team
meeting room - the same location used for departure
speeches by Shula and Jimmy Johnson. "This is a day of
celebration of a great career," Shula said. Dolphins
owner Wayne Huizenga said the Dolphins will retire
No. 13, build a statue for Marino and name a street
after him near their stadium.
+--------------- NFL Suspends Four Players ---------------+
NEW YORK - In the wake of growing public relations problems
with off-the-field violence, the NFL late Tuesday announced
the suspensions of three players for two games apiece under
the league's new anti-crime policy.
Guard Matt O'Dwyer and recently-retired tackle Jumbo Elliott
were each suspended without pay for the first two games of
the 2000 season for their involvement in a bar fight last
July. Both were members of the New York Jets when the
incident occurred, although O'Dwyer signed with the Cincinnati
Bengals before the 1999 season.
Jets tackle Jason Fabini, who was also involved in the fight,
was fined $14,000 by the NFL, the equivalent of his salary
for one game.
Denard Walker, the starting left cornerback for the AFC
champion Tennessee Titans, was also suspended without pay
for the first two games after pleading guilty to assault
on the mother of his son. He was sentenced to probation.
The suspensions and fines are a response to off-the-field
violence involving players in recent months. Baltimore
Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis and former Carolina Panthers
wide receiver Rae Carruth currently are facing murder
charges.
----------------------------------------------------------
+------ Witness Provides Evidence in Ray Lewis Case ------+
BALTIMORE - A witness to the brawl that led to murder and
assault charges against Ray Lewis has given police clothing
that Lewis was wearing when two men were stabbed to death
outside an Atlanta nightclub, a newspaper reported Thursday.
Jessica Robertson had stored the clothing, which police had
been seeking since the day of the killings in Atlanta, The
(Baltimore) Sun reported, quoting unidentified sources.
Robertson turned the clothing over to Fulton County District
Attorney's investigators Monday after receiving a grant of
immunity shielding her from charges, such as evidence
tampering, that she might have faced for having kept or
transported the clothes, The Sun reported. Lewis and two
co-defendants have been charged with assault and murder
stemming from the Jan. 31 fight outside an Atlanta nightclub.
------------------------------------------------------------
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Cincinnati Bengals -- Re-signed defensive tackle Andre
Purvis to a one-year contract.
Denver Broncos -- Named Karl Dorrell wide receivers coach.
Miami Dolphins -- Quarterback Dan Marino announced his
retirement.
Minnesota Vikings -- Signed free agent defensive end
Fernando Smith, who had been with the Baltimore Ravens;
re-signed running back Moe Williams.
New England Patriots -- Re-signed free agent offensive
tackle Ed Ellis and wide receiver Sean Morey and assigned
both to Barcelona of NFL Europe; signed linebacker John
Munch; withdrew their tender offer to cornerback Terry
Billups.
New Orleans Saints -- Named Pat Mondock eastern scouting
supervisor, Mickey Loomis director of football administration
and Omar Khan football operations-coaching assistant.
New York Jets -- Promoted Mike Tannenbaum to director of
player development-contract negotiations.
Philadelphia Eagles -- Re-signed defensive end Al Wallace
and tight end Kaseem Sinceno to one-year contracts; signed
free agent center-guard Eugene Chung to a two-year contract;
acquired tight end Jeff Thomason from the Green Bay Packers
in exchange for tight end Kaseem Sinceno.
St. Louis Rams -- Agreed to terms with unrestricted free
agent defensive tackle Sean Moran, who had been with the
Buffalo Bills.
San Diego Chargers -- Re-signed linebacker Gerald Dixon to a
two-year contract.
Seattle Seahawks -- Signed quarterback Jon Kitna to his tender
offer.
Tennessee Titans -- Elevated Jim Schwartz to linebackers coach;
named Craig Johnson offensive quality control coach and Ronnie
Vinklarek defensive quality control coach.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 81 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Mar 24, 2000 (11:04) * 115 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, March 24, 2000
+------ Criminal Charges Dropped Against Ray Lewis ------+
BALTIMORE - Veteran middle linebacker Ray Lewis of the
Baltimore Ravens, currently facing charges in a high-
profile murder case in Atlanta, Wednesday got a break
on his home turf when assault charges against him were
dropped. The Baltimore Sun reported that a letter written
to attorneys in the case by Howard B. Merker, the deputy
state's attorney in Baltimore County, led to the decision
to drop the second-degree assault charge against Lewis.
Upon hearing of Wednesday's decision, the Ravens quickly
released a public statement. "After a full investigation
of the allegations made against Ray Lewis regarding the
alleged incident, we have been advised that the Maryland
State's Attorney office, in its wisdom, has decided not
to pursue the case. This is an indication that things are
often not what they appear to be at first look," the team
statement said. "We continue to appreciate and have
confidence in the due process that was completed by
Baltimore County Police and the State's Attorney office."
24-year-old Catrice Parker had accused the All-Pro
linebacker of hitting her and knocking her down while
making his way through a crowd of people at a bar. Lewis
had claimed he was attempting to protect himself after he
was recognized and goaded by some people in the crowd.
+----------- Jets Won't Trade Keyshawn Johnson -----------+
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. - Keyshawn Johnson no longer is on the
trading block. New York Jets coach Al Groh said Tuesday the
team no longer is considering dealing its leading receiver,
generally considered the Jets' best player. "While there
has been considerable speculation about the possibility of
trading Keyshawn, the Jets will not entertain any trade
offers at this time," Groh said.
Johnson, through agent Jerome Stanley, has expressed his
dissatisfaction with his contract, which has two years to
run at less than $2 million per season. The two-time Pro
Bowl receiver believes that is far under market value--
Stanley has cited the seven-year, $42 million deal Joey
Galloway signed with Dallas.
+------------- Raiders Sign Anthony Dorsett -------------+
OAKLAND, CA -- The Oakland Raiders shored up their secondary
Tuesday by signing unrestricted free agent defensive back
Anthony Dorsett.
Dorsett, 26, played in all 16 games for the Tennessee Titans
last season, starting two games. His biggest start came in
Super Bowl XXXIV against the St. Louis Rams, when he filled
in at safety for Marcus Robertson and shared the team lead
with five tackles in a 23-16 loss.
The 5-11, 200-pound Dorsett was named as alternate to the
Pro Bowl last season after placing among the league leaders
in special team tackles with 17 and a blocked punt. In the
Titans' base defense, he had 11 tackles and one interception.
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Atlanta Falcons -- Signed free agent guard Anthony Redmon,
who had been with the Carolina Panthers.
Carolina Panthers -- Agreed to terms with free agent
linebacker Lee Woodall, who had been with the San Francisco
49ers; re-signed free agent defensive tackle Tim Morabito.
Chicago Bears -- Signed quarterbacks Clint Dolezel and Mark
Hartsell to one-year contracts.
Cincinnati Bengals -- Re-signed guard-center Brock Gutierrez
to a one-year contract.
Denver Broncos -- Re-signed free agent offensive lineman K.C.
Jones.
Kansas City Chiefs -- Re-signed guard Jeff Smith to a three-
year contract.
Miami Dolphins -- Signed free agent tight end Rich O'Donnell
to a two-year contract; signed free agent running back
Lamar Smith, who had been with the New Orleans Saints, to
a two-year contract; re-signed safety Calvin Jackson to a
two-year contract.
New England Patriots -- Signed unrestricted free agent tackle
Grant Williams, who had been with the Seattle Seahawks, to a
two-year contract; withdrew their tender to linebacker Vernon
Crawford.
New Orleans Saints -- Named Mark Norelli director of ticket
sales.
New York Jets -- Signed free agent defensive tackle Shane
Burton, who had been with the Chicago Bears; promoted scouts
JoTo Wooden and Brian Gaine to the pro player development
department.
Oakland Raiders -- Signed free agent defensive back Anthony
Dorsett, who had been with the Tennessee Titans.
Philadelphia Eagles -- Re-signed tight end Chad Lewis.
Seattle Seahawks -- Signed free agent center Robbie Tobeck
and re-signed tight end Deems May and center Greg Bloedorn.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Re-signed tight end Dave Moore.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 82 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Mar 27, 2000 (15:32) * 28 lines
Instant Replay, Conduct on Table at NFL Meetings
PALM BEACH, Fla. (Reuters) - A vote on instant replay and a new policy on
off-the-field conduct are the main topics at the NFL annual meetings this
week.
The NFL competition committee recently voted 6-1 to present instant replay
as it was conducted last year with a challenge system for a vote at the
meetings. In order for replay to survive, 24 of the 31 teams would have to vote
for it.
A year ago, replay was brought back by an overwhelming 28-3 vote, with the
New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals the only
dissenters.
Facing a growing public relations problem with off-the-field violence, NFL
Commissioner Paul Tagliabue will hold a panel discussion with coaches Mike
Holmgren of Seattle, Tony Dungy of Tampa Bay and Brian Billick of Baltimore
on Wednesday.
The issue has taken on a sense of urgency following the murder charges
against receiver Rae Carruth of Carolina and linebacker Ray Lewis of
Baltimore.
The NFL recently suspended three players two games apiece under the
league's anti-crime policy.
Guard Matt O'Dwyer and recently retired tackle Jumbo Elliott were each
suspended without pay for the first two games of the 2000 season for their
involvement in a bar fight last July. Denard Walker, the starting left
cornerback for the AFC champion Tennessee Titans, was also suspended
without pay for the first two games after pleading guilty to assault on the
mother of his son.
The league is also expected to discuss realignment and a new eight-division
format for 2002.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 83 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 3, 2000 (19:44) * 110 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, March 31, 2000
+----------- NFL Meetings Held--No Changes -----------+
WEST PALM BEACH, FL -- NFL owners decided Wednesday they
had finally come up with a replay system that works and
overwhelmingly voted to retain it. Needing approval from
24 of the 31 owners, the system received support from 28.
Owners also voted to establish the NFL Internet Network,
giving NFL.com and individual club sites a chance to grow.
Among the pooled resources -- current and future -- will
be game highlights, links, game-day applications, radio
broadcasts, advertising, commerce, auctions and photos.
Facing the growing public relations problem of off-the-
field violence, Tagliabue held a panel discussion with
coaches Mike Holmgren of Seattle, Tony Dungy of Tampa
Bay and Brian Billick of Baltimore.
The issue took on a sense of urgency following the filing
of murder charges against receiver Rae Carruth of Carolina
and linebacker Ray Lewis of Baltimore.
+----------- Modell Sells Interest In Ravens -----------+
PALM BEACH, FL -- At the annual NFL winter meetings Monday,
his fellow owners officially approved the sale of 49 percent
of Art Modell's Baltimore Ravens to Stephen Bisciotti for
$275 million. Bisciotti, a Baltimore businessman, has an
option to buy Modell's controlling interest in 2004.
Modell, who has had financial trouble since moving the
franchise from Cleveland after the 1995 season, made the deal
with Bisciotti in January, subject to league approval.
"I would call (the sale) a two-fold purpose," Modell said.
"It's an emotional meltdown for me. You just don't walk away
after 40 years. Also, the Ravens are on the cusp of being a
very good team and I want one more shot at the big enchilada."
Bisciotti also was happy with the transitional deal. "Art
desired to stay on and I desired to stay in the background,"
he said.
+----------- Broncos Release Bubby Brister -----------+
ENGLEWOOD, CO -- Veteran Denver Broncos quarterback Bubby
Brister, who was beaten out for a starting job last season
by Brian Griese, was released Wednesday.
Brister, 37, headed to training camp as the heir apparent
in Denver to the retired John Elway, but performed poorly
in the exhibition games and lost his job to Griese, a
second-year player.
His stock plummeted last season and he spent most of the
year on the bench, appearing in just two games. Brister
clearly had no future in Denver after the Broncos signed
free agent quarterback Gus Frerotte, who is expected to
battle with Griese for the starting spot.
Brister is the second veteran quarterback to leave the
Broncos in the last three months. Frequently injured
Chris Miller retired on Jan. 3, the day after the regular
season ended, not wanting to risk another concussion.
Brister, who has expressed a desire to hook up with
another team, has played in 97 games in a 13-year career
with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, New
York Jets and Broncos.
+----------- Carruth Wanted Girlfriend Beaten -----------+
CHARLOTTE, NC -- Former pro football player Rae Carruth
offered to pay to have his pregnant girlfriend beaten up
so that she would suffer a miscarriage, a North Carolina
newspaper reported Wednesday.
Carruth and three other men are charged with first-degree
murder in the death of Cherica Adams, who was shot four
times as she drove through a south Charlotte neighborhood
last November.
The Charlotte Observer, citing three unidentified sources
familiar with the investigation, said one of the three
co-defendants was paid $2,000 to break into Adams' home
and beat her up. The newspaper said at least one of the
men told police that the former Carolina Panthers player
did not want to pay child support for the baby, who was
delivered 10 weeks prematurely before Adams died from her
injuries.
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Atlanta Falcons -- Waived kicker Clay Rush.
Carolina Panthers -- Terminated the contract of safety Mike Scurlock.
Denver Broncos -- Re-signed defensive tackle Mike Lodish;
waived quarterback Bubby Brister and wide receiver Donald Sellers.
Green Bay Packers -- Received four compensatory picks in the 2000 draft.
Kansas City Chiefs -- Agreed to terms with unrestricted free
agent defensive end Duane Clemons, who had been with the
Minnesota Vikings, on a two-year contract; signed free agent
punter Todd Sauerbrun, who had been with the Chicago Bears,
to a two-year contract; re-signed tight end Mitch Jacoby.
Miami Dolphins -- Signed linebacker Twan Russell to a one-
year contract and tackle Willie Jones to a two-year contract.
Minnesota Vikings -- Received four compensatory picks in the
2000 draft.
New England Patriots -- Signed free agent linebacker Tedy
Bruschi to a two-year contract; released tackle Zefross Moss.
New Orleans Saints -- Signed defensive tackle Winfield Garnett,
cornerback Shannon Garrett, safety Eric Johnson, offensive
tackle Marcus Price, wide receiver Anthony Rodgers, defensive
end Bob Setzer and linebacker K.D. Williams; received two
compensatory picks in the 2000 draft; signed wide receiver
P.J. Franklin, fullback Marvin Powell and running back Dino Philyaw.
New York Giants -- Signed free agent guard-tackle Glenn Parker,
who had been with the Kansas City Chiefs, to a multi-year
contract.
New York Jets -- Named Michael Henning as an assistant.
Philadelphia Eagles -- Signed free agent linebacker Carlos
Emmons, who had been with the Pittsburgh Steelers, to a
four-year contract; released linebacker William Thomas.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Re-signed punter Mark Royals to a
three-year contract.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 84 of 108: terry (sprin5) * Wed, Apr 5, 2000 (06:21) * 1 lines
Ricky Williams continues to get heat for his Sports Illustrated bashing of his offensive lineman, and the guy that interviewed him said he was the most selfish egotistical interviewee he ever had. Will the real Ricky Williams please stand up?
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 85 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Wed, Apr 5, 2000 (15:31) * 1 lines
talk shows are full of it - at least Ricky Williams got them off the hockey stick bashing incident which I got heartily sick of hearing defended!
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 86 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 7, 2000 (13:08) * 93 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, April 7, 2000
** Cowboys Owner Regrets Hiring Gailey **
DALLAS - Jerry Jones acknowledges that hiring Chan Gailey
and allowing him to install an offense for the Dallas Cowboys
that failed to get the most out of Troy Aikman and other
Super Bowl holdovers didn't make sense. "It was not my best
move," the team's owner told The Dallas Morning News in
Thursday's editions. Jones tempered his comments, saying he
will always regret that Gailey didn't coach the Cowboys
longer and adding that he believes one day Gailey will lead
a team to the Super Bowl as head coach. Gailey, now the
offensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, said in
response to Jones' remarks: "I always thought Jerry wanted
to win and do the best for the team." Jones fired Gailey in
January, two days after his second season ended just like
the first: with a one-sided loss in the first round of the playoffs.
++ 49ers QB Leaning Towards Playing Next Season ++
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco 49ers quarterback Steve
Young is in the middle of a long, round-the-world honeymoon,
but he may have left his football heart in San Francisco.
Young's agent, Leigh Steinberg, told the San Francisco
Chronicle his Super Bowl-winning client is interested in
returning for his 16th pro season - and he would like to
do it with the 49ers. Steinberg said Young, who married
Barbara Graham March 14, had been undecided on whether he
would return. And he didn't know if he would return to the
49ers or seek to go to another team. "When the season ended,
it was really unclear to me what he would do," Steinberg
said. "And it's starting to be clearer what he wants to do
is return and play. When he gets back, we'll sit down with
the 49ers and see where he fits into their plans."
** Colts Sign Marvelous Marvin To Extension **
INDIANAPOLIS - The Indianapolis Colts accomplished one of
their off season goals today, signing star receiver Marvin
Harrison to a contract extension. Terms were not disclosed,
but it was said that he was to be the NFL's highest-paid receiver
++ Report: NFL To Suspend Broncos' Carter ++
DENVER - Denver Broncos cornerback Dale Carter will be
suspended for one year for violating the NFL's substance
abuse policy if he loses an appeal, The Denver Post
reported Sunday. The newspaper, citing unidentified NFL
sources, said Carter had violated the policy twice in the
past three months and had two previous violations during
his career. The appeal is expected to be heard in 10 days,
the Post said. Carter's agent Mitch Frankel said his
client did not fail any drug tests during the three-month
period. "He is not up for suspension at this point for
failing any drug test," Frankel said. If Carter, who
signed with the Broncos as a free agent in 1999, is
suspended, he could lose his job as well as the $3.5
million he is to be paid next season.
*** Broncos, Rams Open Mon. Night Schedule ***
NEW YORK - The Denver Broncos and St. Louis Rams, the last
two Super Bowl champions, will open the 2000 NFL season in
St. Louis on Monday night Oct. 4. That game and a Sunday
night meeting in Buffalo between the Bills and the Tennessee
Titans highlight the first weekend of the NFL season. The
second game is a reprise of the "Music City Miracle" in the
first round of last season's playoffs, won by the Titans on
a last-play lateral and kickoff return. They later beat
Indianapolis and Jacksonville and went on to the Super Bowl,
where they lost to the Rams. The Rams' opening game will be
their first Monday night appearance since 1991.
+++ Giant Changes In Appearance +++
NEW YORK - The Giants have unveiled new uniforms and among
the changes is the return of the traditional "nayNY" helmet
logo that was used from 1961-74. To view it visit:
http://www.nfl.com/Giants/news/000405logo.html
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Cincinnati Bengals -- Re-signed outside linebacker Adrian
Ross.
Dallas Cowboys -- The Cowboys have re-signed WR Jason Tucker,
an exclusive-rights free agent who ended the 1999 season with
two-straight 100-yard games. Cowboys also announced they were
releasing WR Ernie Mills
Green Bay Packers -- Signed free agent linebacker Anthony
Harris, who had been with the Miami Dolphins.
Indianapolis Colts -- Signed receiver Marvin Harrison to a
contract extension.
Minnesota Vikings -- Named Daryl Lawrence assistant strength
and conditioning coach. Agreed to terms with quarterback
Bubby Brister, who had been with the Denver Broncos.
New Orleans Saints -- Announced restricted free agent punter
Toby Gowin signed an offer sheet, which Dallas declined to
match; released punter Tommy Barnhardt.
Philadelphia Eagles -- Re-signed wide receiver Dietrich Jells.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 87 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 10, 2000 (00:30) * 52 lines
http://www.sportingnews.com/voices/nfl_inside_dish/19991227.html
NFL Inside Dish
Here's the real skinny on why Bubby Brister lost the Broncos'
starting quarterback job during the preseason: A number of players
told coach Mike Shanahan that Brister would get so flustered and
excitable in the huddle that he was unable to complete the
play-calling. It wasn't that Brister didn't know the plays; he just
lost his composure. . . .
Coach Norv Turner is mulling the possibility of leaving the Redskins
even if the team makes the playoffs. Even if owner Daniel Snyder
doesn't fire Turner, he'll probably try to force him to dismiss
defensive coordinator Mike Nolan, the other defensive coaches and
special teams coach LeCharls McDaniel. Turner has defended Nolan all
season and would be reluctant to get rid of him. . . .
The late-season collapse of the Patriots and the impending firing of
coach Pete Carroll could prompt SS Lawyer Milloy to test the
free-agent market in the offseason. His asking price: $6 million a
year. . . .
What bothered Bucs coaches about QB Trent Dilfer's decision to go
public with some vague criticism of the team's conservative offensive
approach was that Dilfer never voiced any complaint to them.
Nonetheless, the team plans to bring back Dilfer next season. . . .
After making a big splash in free agency in '99, the Rams' main focus
in the offseason will be re-signing their players. Their No. 1 target
will be unrestricted free-agent CB Todd Lyght. They also plan to redo
ontracts for DE Kevin Carter and QB Kurt Warner. With only so many
cap dollars to go around, C Mike Gruttadauria or OT Fred Miller could
be the odd man out. . . .
Look for Bill Parcells to pack it in after this season if he can't
keep his coaching staff intact. Jets defensive coordinator Bill
Belichick probably will be courted by the Patriots, and linebackers
coach Al Groh is a candidate for the head-coaching vacancy at
Princeton, where his son is a freshman quarterback. . . .
The continuing development of rookie defensive lineman Lamar King
will give the Seahawks leverage in contract negotiations with DT Sam
Adams and DE Phillip Daniels, who could be unrestricted free agents
after this season. The 300-pound King has backed up Daniels but also
could play inside. Given that WR Joey Galloway and QB Jon Kitna will
want new deals, it's not likely the club can appease Adams and
Daniels. King's availability to step in as a starter looms large.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 88 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 14, 2000 (23:46) * 82 lines
Penn State Duo Expected to Go 1-2 in NFL Draft
NEW YORK (Reuters) - The last time two players from the same school were
selected 1-2 in the NFL draft was back in 1984.
Back then it was wide receiver Irving Fryar and guard Dean Steinkuhler of
Nebraska who were taken with the first two picks. On Saturday, the dynamic
Penn State defensive duo of end Courtney Brown and linebacker LaVar
Arrington could hold that prestigious distinction.
Brown, Arrington, Alabama tackle Chris Samuels and Florida State receiver
Peter Warrick are rated as the four elite players available in this draft and the
NFC East champion Washington Redskins, who own the second and third
picks, will likely end up with two of them.
After using the top overall pick on quarterback Tim Couch last year, the
Cleveland Browns will build their defense around either Brown or Arrington
with the first selection.
Browns director of football operations Dwight Clark is leaning toward taking
Brown because of his pass-rushing ability, but is also intrigued with
Arrington's impact at outside linebacker.
``You can't lose with either of those players,'' Clark said of the Penn State
tandem. ``They're both going to be great players in this league.''
Penn State's Joe Paterno calls Brown the best defensive lineman he has ever
coached. The 6-5, 270-pounder set the school record in career tackles for
loss (70), career sacks (33) and tackles for loss in a single season (29 in
1999).
Arrington is regarded by some scouts as the best outside linebacker
prospect since Hall-of-Famer Lawrence Taylor. However, the 6-3, 250-pounder
is known for his emotional outbursts and often clashed with Paterno.
After the Browns make their selection, the Redskins will be ready to pounce.
The second overall pick is the final dividend in the Ricky Williams trade with
New Orleans at draft day last season. The other selection comes from
Carolina as part of the compensation for the Panthers' signing of defensive
tackle Sean Gilbert two years ago. Washington traded that pick to the San
Francisco 49ers to move up nine spots to third overall.
``It is an enviable position and we know we're going to end up with two great
players, whichever direction we choose to go,'' Redskins personnel director
Vinny Cerrato said.
The Redskins will take either Brown or Arrington with the second pick and are
expected to take Samuels with the third selection.
That would leave the explosive Warrick for the Cincinnati Bengals, who own
the fourth selection. The addition of Warrick would pave the way for the
Bengals to trade receiver Carl Pickens, who criticized the organization for
retaining Bruce Coslet as coach.
One team interested in Pickens would be the New York Jets, who own an
unprecedented four first-round picks after trading Pro Bowl receiver Keyshawn
Johnson to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the 13th and 27th selections.
New York also has the 12th pick, acquired Thursday in a deal with San
Francisco, and its own 18th selection.
The Jets moved up four spots Thursday by sending their second pick in the
first round, originally acquired from New England as compensation for coach
Bill Belichick, and their second-round pick (No. 48) to San Francisco for the
12th overall choice.
``The acquisition of two more first-round picks (in the Johnson trade) creates
many opportunities for us in the draft including more maneuvering,'' Jets
coach Al Groh said.
However, New York's chances of moving into the top four appear to be
remote. Cerrato said the Jets' picks are too low in the round to pique his
interest.
``To me, this is a draft where between picks 15 and 40 the players are on the
same level,'' Cerrato said. ``If the (Jets) picks were higher, it would be
enticing.''
The Baltimore Ravens own two high picks with the fifth and 10th overall
selections.
The Ravens traded their second-round pick to Atlanta last year for a
first-round pick in 2000. It turned into gold when the Falcons lost star running
back Jamal Anderson to a torn ACL and had a dreadful season, giving
Baltimore the fifth overall pick in this draft.
The Ravens sent their second-round pick to the Denver Broncos to move up
five spots in the first round from 15 to 10.
The Philadelphia Eagles own the sixth pick followed by the Arizona Cardinals,
Pittsburgh Steelers and the Chicago Bears.
The 49ers (16th and 24th) and the Seattle Seahawks (19th and 22nd) are the
other teams with multiple first-round picks along with the Jets, Washington
and Baltimore.
Dallas, Miami, Tampa Bay, New Orleans, Atlanta, San Diego and New
England are the teams without first-round picks.
The draft will be held at the Theater at Madison Square Garden. The first three
rounds will take place on Saturday beginning at noon EDT. The remaining four
rounds will be held on Sunday.
There will be 254 selections, including 31 compensatory choices that have
been awarded to 14 teams.
Teams will have 15 minutes to make their first round picks, 10 minutes for the
second round and five minutes per pick from rounds three through seven. The
draft will be televised by ESPN and ESPN2.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 89 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Mon, Apr 17, 2000 (12:04) * 78 lines
NFL NEWS
IN THIS ISSUE:
1. Keyshawn Johnson Agrees To Bucs Contract, Traded By Jets
2. Bengals Running Back Ki-Jana Carter Injured Again
3. Bam Morris Caught With Huge Quantity Of Pot
4. Packers' Chmura Arrested, Accused Of Sexual Assault
5. Ravens Tackle Suspended Indefinitely
- Keyshawn Johnson Agrees To Bucs Contract, Traded By Jets -
NEW YORK - Keyshawn Johnson was traded by the New York
Jets to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after reaching a contract
agreement late Tuesday night. The deal was made official on
Wednesday morning. A source close to the deal said the contract
is worth $7 million a year and likely will be for eight years,
making Johnson the highest-paid receiver in the league
+--- Bengals Running Back Ki-Jana Carter Injured Again ---+
CINCINNATI - Ki-Jana Carter, the Cincinnati running back who
has missed almost half of his NFL career with injuries since
the Bengals drafted him in 1995, has reinjured the knee that
sidelined him for the 1999 season. Carter, 26, told the Bengals
he injured his right knee during a personal workout Tuesday
night near his home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He was examined
Thursday in Miami where Bengals trainer Paul Sparling said the
exam revealed a partially dislocated kneecap. Sparling said
Carter is considering arthroscopic surgery that could have
him ready to play in 3-to-4 months.
+------ Bam Morris Caught With Huge Quantity Of Pot ------+
KANSAS CITY, MO - Former Kansas City Chiefs running back Bam
Morris, whose career was plagued by recurring bouts with
substance abuse, Friday was charged with conspiracy to
distribute marijuana.
Morris and two co-defendants were charged Friday in U.S.
District Court with conspiring to distribute 100 or more
kilograms of marijuana. If convicted, Morris faces anywhere
from five to 40 years in prison and a fine of up to $2 million.
Also charged in the case were Dewayne Calvin Bryant, 28, and
Robert Corey Myers, 22.
Morris announced his retirement after the 1999 season, shortly
before it was revealed that he was part of a federal probe
into alleged drug and car theft-related crimes. Friday's
arrests followed an ongoing investigation by the FBI and the
Internal Revenue Service.
+-- Packers' Chmura Arrested, Accused Of Sexual Assault --+
HARTLAND, WI - NFL star Mark Chmura was arrested Monday after
his 17-year-old baby sitter accused him of sexually assaulting
her in a bathroom during a party at which they played a drinking
game together. Robert Gessert, a friend of the Green Bay Packers
tight end, also was arrested. An 18-year-old woman accused him
of sexually assaulting her in a hot tub at Gessert's home at
the party after a prom, according to court records. Chmura
appeared in court in an orange jumpsuit with his hands bound
in chains. Chmura and Gessert were released on $5,000 bail and
are due in court May 15. Chmura, 31, and Gessert, 42, have not
been formally charged. Police are recommending a charge of
third-degree sexual assault, punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
+-------- Ravens Tackle Suspended Indefinitely --------+
BALTIMORE,MD - Larry Webster of the Baltimore Ravens has been
suspended indefinitely by the NFL for violating the league's
alcohol and substance abuse policy. The starting defensive
tackle, who has been suspended twice before, could be suspended
for more than a year if he loses an appeal. "We're going to
support whatever sanctions the league will levy," Ravens coach
Brian Billick said Tuesday. "We have to let the process play
itself out, as usual."
Webster twice reportedly tested positive for marijuana when
he was with the Miami Dolphins. He was suspended for six games
after testing positive during the 1995 season. His last
suspension was for the entire 1996 season, a sanction Webster
said came after he drank a beer at his bachelor party. NFL
rules prohibit drinking alcohol after one substance abuse
violation. Webster, 31, started all 16 games last year and
finished with 44 tackles for the Ravens.
Topic 37 of 71 [sports]: NFL 97 98 99 2000 and 2002
Response 90 of 108: Marcia (MarciaH) * Fri, Apr 21, 2000 (13:54) * 127 lines
NFL NEWS - Friday, April 21, 2000
+---------- Russell Maryland Signs With Packers ----------+
GREEN BAY, WI - The Green Bay Packers announced Thursday
they had signed Russell Maryland, likely ending any chance
they will bring back massive defensive tackle Gilbert Brown.
Maryland, who was released by the Oakland Raiders on March
31 in a salary cap move, agreed to a multi-year contract at
undisclosed financial terms.
The Packers have been looking for a replacement for the
350-pound Brown, whose play has slipped over the last two
seasons. Brown so far has attracted little interest as a
free agent.
The Packers already have lost defensive linemen Keith
McKenzie and Vaughn Booker to free agency.
+------------- Redskins Waive Rodney Peete -------------+
ASHBURN, VA - Eight days after signing Jeff George, the
Washington Redskins Tuesday waived veteran quarterback
Rodney Peete.
As a backup for the Redskins last season, Peete appeared in
just three games and completed 8-of-17 passes for 107 yards
and two touchdowns with an interception.
His days in Washington appeared numbered when the Redskins
signed Jeff George to a four-year contract worth $18 million
on April 10 to back up starter Brad Johnson. Casey Weldon is
Washington's third quarterback. The Redskins acquired Peete
from the Philadelphia Eagles last season for a draft pick.
+-------------- Panthers Sign Natrone Means --------------+
CHARLOTTE, NC - The Carolina Panthers found a backup for
running back Tim Biakabutuka by signing veteran Natrone
Means. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The 5-foot-10, 245-pound Means is an eight-year veteran
out of North Carolina. He was released by the San Diego
Chargers for the second time on March 6.
+--------- Exhibition Season Coming Attractions ---------+
NEW YORK - The NFL's exhibition schedule features a Super
Bowl rematch, a meeting of last weekend's top two draft
picks and two games on foreign soil.
St. Louis plays at Tennessee on August 14 in a rematch of
the Rams' 23-16 victory over the Titans in the Super Bowl
on January 30. The first two picks in Saturday's draft,
defensive end Courtney Brown and linebacker LaVar Arrington,
will meet for the first time as pros on August 19 when the
Cleveland Browns play host to the Washington Redskins. On
August 5, the NFL returns to Japan when the Atlanta Falcons
take on the Dallas Cowboys.
*.*.*.*.* This Week's Transactions *.*.*.*.*
Atlanta Falcons - Signed defensive linemen Doug Miller;
claimed wide receiver Kamil Loud off waivers from the Buffalo
Bills.
Carolina Panthers -- Signed unrestricted free agent running
back Natrone Means, who had been with the San Diego Chargers;
released safety Brent Alexander; signed punter Brandon Kale;
acquired linebacker Spencer Reid from the Indianapolis Colts
for running back Fred Lane.
Chicago Bears -- Announced cornerback Terry Cousin and
defensive end Bryan Robinson have agreed to one-year
contracts; waived defensive end Marlon Chambers and wide
receiver Donald Sellers; signed wide receiver Corey Bridges.
Cincinnati Bengals - Agreed to terms with the following 15
free agents: wide receivers Lavelle Boyd, Marvin Chalmers
and Tony Hartley; fullback Ricky Brown; linebackers Alan
Buckwalter, Tarrell Knauls and Armegis Spearman; center
Doug Dorley; defensive linemen Dave Fleischhauer and Mike
Willetts; tackle Joe Hattendorf; punter-kicker Tim Morgan;
guard Roger Roesler; and safety Gary Tompkins.
Green Bay Packers -- Agreed to a multi-year contract with
free agent defensive tackle Russell Maryland, who had been
with the Oakland Raiders; waived defensive end Jon Harris.
Kansas City Ch