Pittsburgh Steelers "James Harrison's assault charge merits a suspension"

The Pittsburgh Steelers are generally known as a clean organization. With the loss of Alan Faneca, a team captain, and James Harrison's arrest for assault, second-year coach Mike Tomlin has his first genuine Public Relations alarm to answer. It's in his best interest to suspend the Pro Bowl linebacker quickly if he is indeed guilty (an affidavit entered at the time of Harrison's arrest says Harrison corroborated everything the victim said). Harrison was arrested in Ohio Township (outside Pittsburgh) March 8 on charges of 6 Sanchez White Jersey
assault. He is accused of slapping his girlfriend across the face after he broke in her room, where she had locked herself in, presumably to avoid Harrison. When Tomlin took the reins from former coach Bill Cowher in January of 2007, his immediate concern was getting the Steelers back into the playoffs after an 8-8 season. Since then, he's presided over the bitter departure of Faneca, the arrest of RB Najeh Davenport for assault, the general collapse of one of the better offensive lines in the game, a somewhat questionable first round draft pick (Lawrence Timmons) and now, a criminal charge against one of the team's best players. How will Tomlin spin this? Cowher had to deal with then-rookie WR Santonio Holmes picking up a domestic assault charge in the summer of 2006, but that was eventually dismissed. Former Steeler Richard Siegler was charged with running a prostitution ring in Las Vegas in 2006, when he was a member of the Steelers practice squad. He was quickly released from the team.Harrison, a Pro Bowl OLB in 2007, won't be so easily dismissed. Obviously, Tomlin is not going to condone Harrison's behavior. Considering the Steelers' reputation, and the pressure NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has placed on the league since he took over in 2006, suspending Harrison for one game may be the Steelers' wisest course of action. Harrison has become a fan-favorite ever since he was placed on the practice squad as an undrafted free agent in 2002. Known for his toughess - which earned him the nickname "Silverback" - Harrison gained YouTube fame in 2003 when he picked up and slammed a fan on the ground who ran on the field during the Steelers at Browns game that season. It's not so 6 Sanchez Green Jersey
funny anymore. His image certainly has been damaged, and a traditionally straight-arrowed organization is going to be forced into action over this incident. While we can expect the standard "We're going to let the authorities investigate the matter before rushing to action," the affidavit filed by Ohio Township Police basically says Harrison admitted to it. It might help the Steelers save some face with their fans and the league to look into the matter right away, and avoid any distraction going into the draft in April and training camp this summer.

San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Brandon Lloyd Kurt Warner

It's been a tough season for both the San Francisco 49ers (2-10) and the Arizona Cardinals (4-8). The Cardinals have earned half of their wins this season against the 49ers, sweeping the two games, winning 31-14 in week 4 in Mexico City, and defeating the 49ers on Sunday 17-10. Sunday's win marked the first time that the Cardinals had won in San Francisco since 1978.In the first meeting in Mexico City the 49ers led 14-0 after the first quarter thanks to two defensive touchdowns. Things went sour for the 49ers after the first quarter as they wereSteelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
pummeled the rest of the way. Cardinals quarterback Josh McCown threw for a career high 385 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin each had a touchdown. Cardinals place kicker Neil Rackers added six field goals in the victoryThe first meeting was very sloppy, and rookie quarterback Alex Smith saw his first major action when he took over for Tim Rattay. Smith completed 6/10 passes for 34 yards. Wide receiver Brandon Lloyd caught 7 passes for 102 yards. The 49ers were out gained by the Cardinals 463-168.On Sunday, at Monster Park, the Cardinals rode the arm of quarterback Kurt Warner and the strength of wide receivers Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. Trailing 10-9 in the 4th quarter and facing a 3rd down and 20, Warner took the shotgun snap and found Boldin on short pass over the middle that Boldin took to the house. Boldin caught the ball, made two guys miss, broke a tackle with three guys on him, and darted down the sideline diving into the end zone for a 54 yard touchdown that proved to be the difference.The game marked another sloppy performance by the two teams. The Cardinals turned the ball over twice on Kurt Warner interceptions and failed to score in all three trips to the red zone. They also only managed 65 yards rushing, but were still able to beat the San Francisco 49ers. Warner exploited the young 49ers secondary all day with Boldin and Fitzgerald both going over the 100 yard receiving mark. Boldin caught 11 balls for 156 yards and 1 touchdown, while Fitzgerald hauled in 8 balls for 129 yards.In Alex Smith's return from injury, the rookie played well, but made a few rookie mistakes. Smith completed 16/23 passes, yet he only threw for 185 yards and had 3 interceptions. The 49ers turned the ball over 4 times. The 49ers were unable to establish the run, only running for 51 yards. Johnnie Morton and Brandon Lloyd were Smith's top targets, with Morton catching 3 balls for 66 yards and Lloyd Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
catching 5 for 46 yards.Once again the 49ers played sloppy and were unable to do much on offense. Also, once again the team showed hope with a few good plays that stick out in an otherwise abysmal performance. They blocked a punt, and Smith had a great first half where he completed 11/12 passes for 138 yards, and they led going into the 4th quarter. For now Smith remains winless and has yet to throw a touchdown pass in his career.

San Francisco 49ers Alex Smith Brandon Lloyd Kurt Warner

It's been a tough season for both the San Francisco 49ers (2-10) and the Arizona Cardinals (4-8). The Cardinals have earned half of their wins this season against the 49ers, sweeping the two games, winning 31-14 in week 4 in Mexico City, and defeating the 49ers on Sunday 17-10. Sunday's win marked the first time that the Cardinals had won in San Francisco since 1978.In the first meeting in Mexico City the 49ers led 14-0 after the first quarter thanks to two defensive touchdowns. Things went sour for the 49ers after the first quarter as they wereSteelers 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
pummeled the rest of the way. Cardinals quarterback Josh McCown threw for a career high 385 yards and 2 touchdowns. Wide receivers Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin each had a touchdown. Cardinals place kicker Neil Rackers added six field goals in the victoryThe first meeting was very sloppy, and rookie quarterback Alex Smith saw his first major action when he took over for Tim Rattay. Smith completed 6/10 passes for 34 yards. Wide receiver Brandon Lloyd caught 7 passes for 102 yards. The 49ers were out gained by the Cardinals 463-168.On Sunday, at Monster Park, the Cardinals rode the arm of quarterback Kurt Warner and the strength of wide receivers Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald. Trailing 10-9 in the 4th quarter and facing a 3rd down and 20, Warner took the shotgun snap and found Boldin on short pass over the middle that Boldin took to the house. Boldin caught the ball, made two guys miss, broke a tackle with three guys on him, and darted down the sideline diving into the end zone for a 54 yard touchdown that proved to be the difference.The game marked another sloppy performance by the two teams. The Cardinals turned the ball over twice on Kurt Warner interceptions and failed to score in all three trips to the red zone. They also only managed 65 yards rushing, but were still able to beat the San Francisco 49ers. Warner exploited the young 49ers secondary all day with Boldin and Fitzgerald both going over the 100 yard receiving mark. Boldin caught 11 balls for 156 yards and 1 touchdown, while Fitzgerald hauled in 8 balls for 129 yards.In Alex Smith's return from injury, the rookie played well, but made a few rookie mistakes. Smith completed 16/23 passes, yet he only threw for 185 yards and had 3 interceptions. The 49ers turned the ball over 4 times. The 49ers were unable to establish the run, only running for 51 yards. Johnnie Morton and Brandon Lloyd were Smith's top targets, with Morton catching 3 balls for 66 yards and Lloyd Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
catching 5 for 46 yards.Once again the 49ers played sloppy and were unable to do much on offense. Also, once again the team showed hope with a few good plays that stick out in an otherwise abysmal performance. They blocked a punt, and Smith had a great first half where he completed 11/12 passes for 138 yards, and they led going into the 4th quarter. For now Smith remains winless and has yet to throw a touchdown pass in his career.

San Francisco 49ers "Patrick Willis could blaze path towards new defensive identity"

After ending last year on a positive note (a big win in Denver that eliminated the Broncos from the playoffs), the 49ers headed into the offseason with a ton of cap room and a strong desire to add an impact player on defense. The team aggressively pursued free-agent All-Pro linebacker Adalius Thomas, Steelers 36 Bettis Jersey
a versatile player who had a history with Niners head coach Mike Nolan (Thomas played under Nolan during the coach's tenure in Baltimore). Despite this connection, Thomas chose to sign with the New England Patriots. This failed attempt to land a marquee free-agent linebacker may actually have been a blessing in disguise. San Francisco lost out on the Thomas sweepstakes, but that paved the way for a brilliant new addition to the team. With the 11th overall pick of April's draft, the 49ers helped carve themselves a new defensive identity. When the Niners chose Ole Miss linebacker Patrick Willis, they secured an athletic, explosive playmaker who has great leadership skills and an unquestioned desire to succeed in the NFL. Nolan made it clear that Willis will be instrumental in the transition to a 3-4 defense. "I expect him to make an impact right away. In the third down area, I would expect him to be a starter right away," Nolan said. While at Mississippi, Willis achieved many accolades. He was the 2006 Butkus Award winner -- an honor issued to the nation's top linebacker. He led the highly competitive SEC in tackles. Off the field, Willis is active in community service and is often commended for his strong character. Willis will surely benefit from the tutelage of assistant head coach and Hall of Fame LB Mike Singletary, whose guidance will offset Willis' inexperience with the 3-4 (he played 4-3 in college). Willis should develop quickly because of his high football IQ, his speed and his ability to make instinctive plays. In addition to his amazing athletic abilities, Willis has a cool confidence about him. When asked by a reporter if he expects to start, Willis said, "Yes, sir; there is no doubt in my mind." With an aging Derek Smith parked in the middle of the team's defense, truer words have never been spoken. The 49ers are expected to challenge for a division title this season. The signing of cornerback Nate Clements (eight years, $80 million) and the acquisition of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
receiver Darrell Jackson are nice moves, but grabbing Willis will go down as the highlight of the 49ers' 2006 offseason. He's the type of player who has perennial Pro Bowler written all over him and can be the quarterback of the defense for the next decade. Securing the admirable work ethic and astounding athletic abilities of a guy like Willis is just one indication that 49ers are headed in the right direction. Keep track of Patrick Willis and the rest of the San Francisco 49ers

Tennessee Titans "Kearse arrested for DUI"

Tennessee Titans defensive end Jevon Kearse has been arrested and charged with driving under the influence. The arrest took place at a traffic stop near the Vanderbilt University campus.Commentary: A Vanderbilt spokesman said that Kearse was stopped Sunday morning after campus police reported seeing his SUV weaving across the road.Kearse did take a field sobriety test but refused a Breathalyzer. He was arrested and charged with DUI and violation of Tennessee's implied consent law for failing to take the Breathalyzer test. The police let Kearse go later that morning. 4 Brett Favre White jersey
In a move to help stabilize a terrific offensive line going forward, the Tennessee Titans were able to tie down left tackle Michael Roos to a six-year, $43 million contract extension last month.Still, that's not to say there haven't been some problems keeping stability on the O-line. Former right guard Benji Olson retired after last season, and ex-left guard Jacob Bell signed with the St. Louis Rams via free agency. But the right side got an upgrade when the Titans signed ex-Indianapolis Colt Jake Scott earlier in the offseason, and the left guard position is in the throes of competition between two talented youngsters in Leroy Harris and Eugene Amano. So it would seem the line is solidified. Except right tackle.David Stewart, who has appeared in 30 games over the past two seasons and is known for having the appropriate lineman's mentality, is a standout right tackle who hasn't been given a long-term deal.The Mississippi State alumnus signed a one-year tender worth just over $2 million last week, which came after he had to sign a waver that allowed him to participate during the offseason. Stewart's uncertain future with the Titans is obviously a contrast to Roos, who will be in Tennessee for the long haul.Having just signed his own big-money deal, Roos is clearly in favor of locking up the line's other anchor in Stewart."Our line is relatively young still with the exception of Kevin (Mawae), so pretty much everyone is signed through except Stewart," the native Estonian said. "We get one more piece of the puzzle, we'll be together for a very long time."With Olson and Bell now gone, maintaining stability is dangerously close to giving way to damage control, which is why the lack of a long-term Stewart deal is baffling."They just got Roos done...There is a difference in the 6 Super Bowl Champions jersey
position a little bit, but to me it is not as significant as some people may believe it is," Bus Cook, Stewart's agent, said. "It depends on what they think. They paid Roos, so they're going to have to pay David. Maybe they can, maybe they can't. We'll see."For the sake of the Titans' offense, fans should hope the team locks up Stewart soon.

Tennessee Titans "sign seventh-round CB Cary Williams"

Tennessee signed cornerback Cary Williams, a seventh-round pick, to a multiyear deal, the Tennessean reported Friday. The Titans open training camp July 25, and they have four picks left to sign -- first-round running back Chris Johnson, second-round defensive end Jason Jones, third-round tight end Craig Stevens and fourth-round defensive lineman William Hayes. Titans rookie contract status as of July 191 (24). RB Chris Johnson, East Carolina – Unsigned2 (54). DE Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan – Unsigned3 (85). TE Craig Stevens, California – Unsigned4 (103). DL 43 Polamalu white jersey
William Hayes, Winston-Salem State – Unsigned4 (126). WR Lavelle Hawkins, California – Signed (four years, no financial terms disclosed)4 (134). OLB Stanford Keglar, Purdue – Signed (four years, no financial terms disclosed)7 (229). CB Cary Williams, Washburn – Signed (three years, no financial terms disclosed) Tennessee signed its sixth-round pick, LB Stanford Keglar, to a four-year contract Friday. The Titans have six picks left to sign.Titans rookie contract status as of July 121 (24). RB Chris Johnson, East Carolina – Unsigned2 (54). DE Jason Jones, Eastern Michigan – Unsigned3 (85). TE Craig Stevens, California – Unsigned4 (103). DL William Hayes, Winston-Salem State – Unsigned4 (126). WR Lavelle Hawkins, California – Unsigned4 (134). OLB Stanford Keglar, Purdue – Signed (four years, no financial terms disclosed)7 (229). CB Cary Williams, Washburn – UnsignedOne of the big hooplas in Nashville is the fact that Tennessee's Jeff Fisher is embarking on his 14th consecutive season as head coach of the Titans. No current NFL coach is more tenured than the former USC safety. In today’s environment where a coach is here today, gone tomorrow -- whether in the NFL or college -- Fisher's mainstay status in Tennessee is truly unique and impressive.Reviewing his term of office and where the team is now, the question becomes: Can the longtime coach, who obviously heads a fairly talented bunch, get Tennessee deep into the playoffs?Since the team's magical 1999 season that ended with a Super Bowl berth, the Titans have recorded four playoff appearances, which is OK on the surface. However, in only one of those seasons, 2002, did the club get past the divisional round. Last season Tennessee made it to the playoffs, compiling a 10-win regular season. However, before the season’s final game, the Titans were sitting on a rickety bubble: A loss to Indianapolis would have done the Titans in. But after the Colts secured home-field advantage and a first-round bye weeks earlier, head coach Tony Dungy pulled all of his starters after the first quarter to save them for the playoffs. That was the catalyst which allowed the Titans to capitalize (barely) by playing the Colts’ backups and get the win. In other words, the only reason Tennessee won was because it was not playing the Peyton Manning-led Colts. Had Dungy left Manning and the rest of his starters in the entire game, chances are Tennessee would have lost. The Titans proved their inferiority during the first week of the playoffs, turning in a dismal performance en route to a 17-6 loss in San Diego.With that said, the Titans’ record has consistently improved over the past three seasons. Tennessee’s 4-12 mark in 2005 went to 8-8 in ’06, then, as mentioned, 10-6 last season. Under Fisher, then, the club has experienced regular-season progress. But to take the next step, Fisher and new offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger must figure out how to make the 'O' score more touchdowns. The Titans averaged 19.4 points per game over the past two seasons; that number obviously has go up. And for that to happen in today’s NFL, you must have a serious passing game. And that’s where Tennessee’s lacking.Unfortunately for the Titans, it doesn't appear their Vince Young-guided aerial attack will be a whole lot better this year: The club squandered opportunities to land a No. 1 receiver during free agency and during the draft. 43 Polamalu black jersey
Tennessee's major offseason’s acquisitions came in the form of tight end Alge Crumpler and first-round running back Chris Johnson, which indicates it still plans on being a short-yardage team.After an offseason in which the Titans didn't seem to address their biggest need, a 2008 campaign lacking progress might be time for fans to begin calling into question the job Fisher is doing; the bottom line is that Tennessee can't be one-dimensional for the second straight season. Though the head coach isn't necessarily the one many look to as the individual making major personnel decisions, as executive vice president and head coach, the buck largely starts and stops with Fisher.

What’s in store for the pass catchers?

It’s no big secret to anyone that the are a run-first team. And run second. And, if they’re close enough, run third.Head coach Lane Kiffin has three more-than-capable running backs, a young, inexperienced passer behind center and an O-line built to clear rushing lanes.Passing the ball in 2008 will simply be a way to keep defenses honest and to pick up long-yardage first downs. It won’t be the way the silver and black plans on dominating or, for that matter, winning games.That doesn’t mean Oakland’s pass catchers won’t see plenty of 36 Bettis White Jersey
action throughout the season, though. They may not produce consistent fantasy-friendly numbers, but the wideouts and tight ends in Oakland are certainly capable of moving the chains.With preseason half over and the regular season less than three weeks away, let’s take a look at some possible finishing numbers for the Raiders’ pass catchers in ‘08.Javon Walker, WR: It’s been one rough offseason for the ex-Denver Bronco. After the Las Vegas robbery incident, Walker was reportedly contemplating retiring from football all together. Nevertheless, the 29-year-old is still Oakland’s No. 1 wideout this season, and will enter as that heading into the home opener against his former team. As long as he’s guaranteed $16 million, he’ll be guaranteed to make some plays. Expect a quiet season for Walker, but one filled with some memorable big plays, particularly in Week 1.Projection: 40 receptions, 525 yards (13.1 YPC), five TDsRonald Curry, WR: Curry has proven himself time and again to be a reliable target for any quarterback in a silver-and-black jersey. Yet, in that same time, he’s also proven to be more useful as a slot pass catcher than as a primary target. Curry’s never caught over 750 yards worth of balls in his seven-year career, and 2008 doesn’t appear to present any greater of a chance for him to do that. Still, Curry will rack up his share of catches with second-year passer JaMarcus Russell under center. Expect him to lead all Raiders wide receivers in first-down conversions this season.Projection: 36 receptions, 450 yards (12.5 YPC), four TDsDrew Carter, WR: Carter, a former Carolina Panther who signed with Oakland this offseason, is currently in a battle with Curry for the No. 2 wideout spot. He’s been silent thus far this preseason, however, and it appears Curry has the early edge. At 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, though, Carter will be a very difficult target for the young Russell to not rely on, particularly in the red zone. Expect some big plays from the fifth-year receiver, but some fairly modest numbers.Projection: 25 receptions, 355 yards (14.6 YPC), four TDsJohnnie Lee Higgins, WR: Higgins has been busy giving both coaches and fans headaches on special teams, so his use on the offensive side of the football is still a bit suspect. Nevertheless, the speedy third-rounder should see some time on the field this year and post career numbers. Keep in mind, Higgins has six catches for 47 yards in his career.Projection: 15 receptions, 205 yards (13.7 YPC), zero TDsZach Miller, TE: If there’s one Raiders pass catcher worth giving a close look on your fantasy draft day, it’s Miller. The second-year tight end set a franchise rookie receiving record last year with 44 grabs for 444 yards, and he’s only looked better with time. Miller has the Raiders’ sole receiving touchdown this preseason and has the most catches of any starter on the team in the two games the Raiders have played. It’s no mistake, as the 22-year-old has already seemingly formed a natural bond with Russell. In Russell’s only start last season, he hooked up with Miller eight times for 84 yards. Expect the youngster to pick up right where he left off and win the numbers game in 2008.Projection: 67 receptions, 720 yards (10.7 YPC), seven TDsJohn Madsen, TE: When Miller needs a rest or the Raiders need another tight end, 25-year-old John Madsen is the other blocker/receiver who can make the big catch. Granted, the 240-pounder has never made more than 11 in a single season, but he’s always good for at least one big play per season. Madsen had a 57-yard reception in ‘06 and a 39-yarder last season. Don’t expect him to just disappear in 2008.Projection: Seven receptions, 75 yards (12.5 YPC), zero TDsRunning backs: Among the halfbacks -- Justin Fargas, Darren McFadden and Michael Bush -- and fullbacks -- Justin Griffith and Oren O’Neal -- Russell will make plenty of new friends this year. All five of these players will see their fair share of opportunities out of the backfield with Russell behind center. Last year, Oakland’s rushers combined for 89 grabs for 671 yards. Expect more catches and yards this year with a new, more explosive brigade of 4 Brett Favre Purple jersey
weapons coming out of the backfield.Projection: 98 receptions, 775 yards (7.9 YPC), five TDs2007 TOTALS: 260 receptions, 2,631 yards, 17 TDs (31st in NFL)2008 PROJECTED TALLY: 288 receptions, 3,105 yards, 25 TDs (Would have ranked 22nd in NFL in 2007)Anthony Carroll can be contacted at (18)