Cassel keeps Patriots right in thick of NFL playoff race

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1 Cassel keeps Patriots right in thick of NFL playoff race Page 1 of 2 SPORTS / STEELERS & NFL Cassel keeps Patriots right in thick of NFL playoff race Wednesday, November 26, 2008 By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Julie Jacobson/Associated Press Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel calls out a play against the New York Jets earlier this season. The Patriots host the Steelers Sunday. The New England Patriots' season was supposed to end at the beginning, the day Tom Brady was knocked out in the opener. So, why are the Steelers preparing for a visit to Foxborough, Mass., Sunday against a playoff contender and the NFL's seventh-best offense? The answer is Matt Cassel, a name only his family and Bill Belichick knew before Sept. 7. Cassel, in Brady-like fashion, has kept the 7-4 Patriots in the playoff hunt, one game behind the New York Jets in the AFC East. New England is within a victory Sunday of tying the Steelers and joining them and others in a dash to the finish for the No. 2 playoff seed. The fourth-year pro, who had not started a game since high school, became only the fifth quarterback in NFL history Sunday to throw for more than 400 yards in consecutive games, something Brady never accomplished. Cassel ranks 10th among NFL passers with a 90.5 rating (Ben Roethlisberger is 20th at 80.5). If Belichick's reputation took a hit over "Spygate," it's making a comeback as his team remains a player without Brady. "I don't think that anybody in this industry thinks that coach Belichick is not a great coach," Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. "Injuries are a big part of it. They are dealing with injury, and this is not the first time that they have been successful while dealing with injuries. Anybody that is going to be successful has to be able to do that." Tomlin said, "I think it's obvious they've got a great deal of confidence in what this young man is doing for them. And, yes, they're willing to do whatever it is they deem necessary for them to win. He threw quite a few times last week, over 400 yards. I think his numbers speak for themselves. He's got a plus-90 quarterback rating. He's shown that he's a player in this league at that position. Good for them." Tomlin almost visibly shrugged when he spoke about Cassel's fairy tale story at his news conference yesterday. "I'm not surprised. Nothing surprises me in this league, truth be known. I was part of a team that won a world championship with a guy that didn't start in college at quarterback by the name of Brad Johnson, who's 40 and still playing in the National Football League." Johnson, though, was not the epicenter of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers when they won the Super Bowl in Brady was everything to the Patriots and the main reason they were 18-0 entering the previous Super Bowl. It has taken Cassel and his

2 Cassel keeps Patriots right in thick of NFL playoff race Page 2 of 2 team some time to adjust, but they appear to have weathered the early storms and enter the game Sunday at the top of theirs. "Cassel is doing an awesome job," Tomlin said. "He's spreading the football around to a variety of receivers and doing a nice job of running their offense in its many forms." He also has Roethlisberger-like ability to escape a rush at 6 feet 4, 230 pounds. He has run 53 times for 199 yards, but he also has been sacked in Big Ben fashion times this season, two fewer than Roethlisberger. And that won't be the Miami Dolphins' defense he'll play on Sunday. "He's surprisingly mobile," Tomlin said. "You've seen the highlights, you know that he can make many of the throws on the field. He's doing a good job of communicating, identifying the potential hots and running their offense. "The added element that he brings is his ability to buy time and create as plays lag on or as pockets break down. He was their leading rusher against the [New York] Jets. He's got 200 yards rushing on the season. He's a big reason they're seventh in the league in rushing. His escapability is an issue, and it's an issue that you don't have to deal with historically preparing to play New England." Sunday Who: Steelers (8-3) vs. Patriots (7-4). When: 4:15 p.m. Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxborough, Mass. TV: KDKA. Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com. First published on November 26, 2008 at 12:00 am Patriots Tailgate Party # 1 Patriots Tailgate Party Bus You do the Drinkin we do the Drivin "2008 Diet Of The Year:" Finally, A Diet That Really Works! As Seen On CNN, NBC, CBS & Fox News

3 Steelers Notebook: Parker might be out Sunday Page 1 of 2 SPORTS / STEELERS & NFL Steelers Notebook: Parker might be out Sunday Swollen knee makes him questionable for game against New England Wednesday, November 26, 2008 By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Halfback Willie Parker has swelling in his left knee and coach Mike Tomlin listed him as questionable to play Sunday for the Steelers at the New England Patriots. Parker left in the third quarter of the game Thursday against Cincinnati after he pulled up out of bounds after a 15-yard run. Mewelde Moore will start at halfback if Parker cannot return. Cornerback Bryant McFadden could return to play; Tomlin also listed him as questionable. McFadden has not played since his right forearm was broken Oct. 19. Tomlin listed cornerback Deshea Townsend as doubtful with a hamstring injury that has caused him to miss the past two games, and offensive left tackle Marvel Smith is "status quo," not a good sign since Smith has missed the past six games with a back problem. The coach confirmed that defensive end Brett Keisel will miss the New England game with a sprained MCL in his left knee and may miss two more games after that. No full endorsement Mitch Berger was not given a ringing endorsement the day Tomlin released him in favor of Paul Ernster, and it was not the case again just because Berger is back in place of Ernster. Apparently, the tipping point for re-signing Berger is his ability to hold for kicker Jeff Reed. "Mitch, when we made the decision to go to Paul, I characterized it as not up to snuff," Tomlin said. "Obviously, not up to snuff is relative. We're glad to have Mitch back. "The reason you go back to him is continuity. Jeff is having an awesome season, has been very consistent for us. When you bring in a guy like Mitch, who's got experience with him in the holding category, it weighs into your decision. Hopefully, it continues to be an effective element of our game. I'm talking about place-kicking, and Mitch will be a big part of that. We'll need Mitch to do a quality job punting as well." Just being Anthony Smith Just when everyone thought Anthony Smith could not top his guaranteed victory call against New England last season, he came close. Smith was torched for two long touchdown passes as the starting safety in the Steelers' loss at New England last season. It came days after he guaranteed a victory. Oops, he's at it again. "If they ask me again, I'll say the same thing," he told the Indiana Gazette after the game Thursday night. "We're the No. 1 defense. If we play like we've been playing, and our offense comes around and has a good game, and we're clicking on all cylinders, we're going to win the game." Smith no longer is the first safety into the game for injuries. That job belongs to Tyrone Carter. Smith has played in all but one game this season, mostly on special teams. Tomlin, asked yesterday if that game affected Smith's career, replied:

4 Steelers Notebook: Parker might be out Sunday Page 2 of 2 "You'd have to ask Anthony that. I'm not going to use that game as a turning point or benchmark for anyone or anybody. His career is his career." First published on November 26, 2008 at 12:00 am Buy Steelers Jersey Pittsburgh Steelers Jersey On Sale. Home & Away. Only $ Average Steelers' IQ=126 Are You Smarter Than a Steelers Player? Take a Real IQ Test Now!

5 Woodson, Dawson among Hall semifinalists Page 1 of 2 SPORTS / STEELERS & NFL Woodson, Dawson among Hall semifinalists Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Former Steelers teammates Rod Woodson and Dermontti Dawson were among the 25 semifinalists for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2009 announced yesterday. Woodson, drafted in 1987 and in his first year of eligibility, played cornerback. Dawson, drafted in 1988, played center. Also on the list are former Steelers linebacker Kevin Greene and former Pitt players Russ Grimm and Chris Doleman. The list will be cut to 15, plus two seniors candidates, before the final voting Jan. 31. Semifinalists The 25 modern-era semifinalists for the Hall of Fame: Cris Carter, WR Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, 2002 Miami Dolphins Roger Craig, RB San Francisco 49ers, 1991 Los Angeles Raiders, Minnesota Vikings, Terrell Davis, RB Denver Broncos Dermontti Dawson, C Steelers Richard Dent, DE , 1995 Chicago Bears, 1994 San Francisco 49ers, 1996 Indianapolis Colts, 1997 Philadelphia Eagles Chris Doleman, DE/LB , 1999 Minnesota Vikings, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers Kevin Greene, LB/DE Los Angeles Rams, Steelers, 1996, Carolina Panthers, 1997 San Francisco 49ers Russ Grimm, G Washington Redskins Ray Guy, P Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders Charles Haley, DE/LB , 1999 San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys Lester Hayes, CB Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders Cortez Kennedy, DT Seattle Seahawks Bob Kuechenberg, G Miami Dolphins Randall McDaniel, G Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Art Modell, Owner Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens John Randle, DT Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks Andre Reed, WR Buffalo Bills, 2000 Washington Redskins Shannon Sharpe, TE , Denver Broncos, Baltimore Ravens Bruce Smith, DE Buffalo Bills, Washington Redskins Ken Stabler, QB Oakland Raiders, Houston Oilers, New Orleans Saints

6 Woodson, Dawson among Hall semifinalists Page 2 of 2 Paul Tagliabue, Commissioner National Football League Steve Tasker, Special Teams/WR Houston Oilers, Buffalo Bills Derrick Thomas, LB Kansas City Chiefs Ralph Wilson, Owner 1960-current Buffalo Bills Rod Woodson, CB/S Steelers, 1997 San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, Oakland Raiders First published on November 26, 2008 at 12:00 am Average Steelers' IQ=126 Are You Smarter Than a Steelers Player? Take a Real IQ Test Now! F Tambellini's Ristorante Fine Italian Dining In Pittsburgh. Order Gift Certificates Online!

7 Steelers face daunting schedule - Tribune-Review Page 1 of 2 Steelers face daunting schedule By John Harris TRIBUNE-REVIEW Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Looks like the NFL's most difficult schedule is about to become even more challenging. At 8-3, the Steelers lead Baltimore by a game in the AFC North and have positioned themselves as a top playoff contender. However, given the dynamics of head-to-head matchups and tiebreakers, the next four weeks could determine the Steelers' playoff position -- or if they even will advance to the postseason for the second consecutive year under coach Mike Tomlin. Starting with Sunday's game at New England, the Steelers will face their toughest stretch of games under Tomlin. After facing the 7-4 Patriots, the Steelers will host Dallas (7-4) before returning to the road against Baltimore (7-4) and Tennessee (10-1). The combined record of those four opponents is good for a.705 winning percentage. The winning percentage of the Steelers' first 11 opponents this season was.450. "I didn't care about the schedule in March. I don't care about the schedule now. I really don't," Tomlin said Tuesday at his weekly news conference. "We play New England this week, and that's where we're at. That's where our attention needs to be. I (couldn't) care less what's going to happen in the upcoming month, or the subsequent weeks. That's never been our mentality and won't be." Four of the Steelers' first 11 opponents have winning records. The Steelers defeated Baltimore, in overtime, and Washington (7-4), but lost to the New York Giants (10-1) and Indianapolis (7-4). New England, Sunday's opponent, overcame the loss of superstar quarterback Tom Brady in the opener to trail the New York Jets by one game in the AFC East. Quarterback Matt Cassel, Brady's understudy who never started a game in college, has posted back-to-back 400-yard passing performances. He will test a Steelers defense that hasn't permitted an opposing quarterback to pass for 250 yards this season. "Our guys know about New England. They're a great football team," Tomlin

8 Steelers face daunting schedule - Tribune-Review Page 2 of 2 said. "Well-coached. Rock solid in all three phases (offense, defense, special teams)." Last season, New England won, 34-13, marking the largest scoring output against the Steelers. The Steelers haven't beaten the Patriots on the road since "It's good to have a veteran football team, one that undrestands what this time of year is about and what we're trying to do," Tomlin said. "But at the same time, as a coach, you don't take that for granted. You talk about what's required this time of year, you talk about what's necessary for us to continue to move in the direction that we're headed." John Harris can be reached at jharris@tribweb.com or Images and text copyright 2008 by The Tribune-Review Publishing Co. Reproduction or reuse prohibited without written consent from PghTrib.com

9 Keisel out indefinitely - Tribune-Review Page 1 of 1 Keisel out indefinitely By John Harris TRIBUNE-REVIEW Wednesday, November 26, 2008 â Starting defensive end Brett Keisel will miss Sunday's game at New England with an MCL sprain in his knee and could be lost for an indefinite period of time, coach Mike Tomlin said Tuesday. Keisel, who missed three games earlier in the season with a calf injury, has 29 tackles, one sack and nine quarterback pressures. "He'll be out for this week and, of course, a couple of weeks surely to follow. But we'll take it week-to-week with him," Tomlin said. Running back Willie Parker, who left the Cincinnati game because of knee inflamation, is questionable, as is cornerback Bryant McFadden, who has missed five consecutive games with a broken forearm. Cornerback Deshea Townsend, who has missed two consecutive games with a hamstring injury, is doubtful. Tackle Marvel Smith will miss his seventh consecutive game with back problems. In the Good News Dept., Tomlin said receiver Santonio Holmes, who suffered a concussion against the Bengals, is expected to return to action. * Safety Anthony Smith made another guarantee last week. Just as he did a year ago, Smith told the Indiana (Pa.) Gazette that the Steelers will defeat New England. "Yeah, I can guarantee a win," Smith said. "As long as we come out and do what we got to do." Last season, Smith was victimized for two long touchdown passes after guaranteeing a Steelers win over the Patriots. The Steelers lost, Smith eventually lost his starting job and hasn't been able to beat out Ryan Clark at free safety. "It was taken out of context," Smith said. "Whoever wrote that article misquoted me. But I guess people are going to write what they want to write anyway." Tomlin was asked yesterday if Smith's failed prediction last year contributed to him losing his starting job. "I'm not going to use that game as a turning point or benchmark for anyone," Tomlin said. "His career is his career." Digits 39 --The number of consecutive regular-season games New England has won when leading at halftime. John Harris can be reached at jharris@tribweb.com or Images and text copyright 2008 by The Tribune-Review Publishing Co. Reproduction or reuse prohibited without written consent from PghTrib.com

10 .: Print Version :. Page 1 of 2 Print Page WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 26, 2008 :: Last modified: Wednesday, November 26, :13 AM EST It's parity time for Steelers, AFC By Mike Bires Times Sports Staff The AFC playoff chase is getting so intense that even an 8-3 team like the Steelers aren t even close to clinching a spot in the Super Bowl tournament. That s why Sunday s game in New England is so important. It s the first game in a brutal stretch of a schedule deemed the NFL s hardest when the season began. If they can defeat Bill Belichick and his surging Patriots, the Steelers will remain in first place in the AFC North Division and improve to 8-1 in conference play. But if they lose again at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass. they were blown out there in 2002 and again last year there s a good chance they ll be tied in the division with red-hot Baltimore (7-4). The Ravens, who ve won four of their last five games, play in Cincinnati on Sunday against the Bengals. Just keep taking care of one team at a time, one week at a time, Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs said. We ve got to handle our business. We control our fate, pretty much at this point. After New England, the Steelers play three more teams with winning records: home against the Dallas Cowboys (7-4), at Baltimore and at the Tennessee Titans (10-1). They finish at home against the Cleveland Browns (4-7). Meanwhile, the Ravens, too have a tough December schedule, although three of their last four games are at home. They finish with the Washington Redskins (7-4) the Steelers, at Dallas and home again against the Jacksonville Jaguars (4-7). I didn t care about the schedule in March. I don t care about the schedule now, Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said. I really don t. We play New England this week and that s where we re at. And that s where our attention needs to be. I can care less what s going to happen in the upcoming month or the subsequent weeks. If the Steelers lose to the Patriots, the Dec. 14 game in Baltimore may be the key to their playoff hopes. If the Steelers win that game, they would have swept the Ravens and have a 2-0 head-to-head advantage, a key criteria in the NFL s tie-breaking process. In Pittsburgh, Tomlin refuses to speculate about any playoff scenarios. But he s well aware of the Steelers second-half collapse last year when they started out 6-2 and lost four of their last eight.

11 .: Print Version :. Page 2 of 2 Likewise, Baltimore rookie coach John Harbaugh is tempering the excitement of Ravens fans who are hoping for a worst-to-first turnaround. Last year, the Ravens finished last in the AFC North at Any excitement we feel is tempered by the fact that we have the Bengals in front of us, because that excitement goes away pretty quick when you don t go out and play up to your capability on a Sunday afternoon, Harbaugh said.

12 .: Print Version :. Page 1 of 2 Print Page WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 26, 2008 :: Last modified: Wednesday, November 26, :02 AM EST Notebook: No regrets, one guarantee By Mike Bires Times Sports Staff PITTSBURGH Anthony Smith has apparently offered up another guarantee that the Steelers are going to upset the New England Patriots. After Thursday s win over the Cincinnati Bengals, the Steelers second-string safety told a reporter from the Indiana (Pa.) Gazette that he didn t regret last year s guarantee and that he d do it again. If they ask me again, I ll say the same thing, Smith said. We re the No. 1 defense. If we play like we ve been playing, and our offense comes around and has a good game, and we re clicking on all cylinders, we re going to win the game. Because Smith used the word if, that wasn t an unconditional guarantee that the Steelers (8-3) will win Sunday in New England (7-4). But he certainly will have to answer to the media and to his teammates and coaches today when the Steelers return to practice. Last year when Smith guaranteed a win over the Patriots, who were 12-0 at the time, the Steelers were trounced And Smith was burnt twice on long touchdown passes thrown by Tom Brady. After that game, Smith was roundly criticized by his teammates and even by Pats coach Bill Belichick. Tuesday at his weekly press conference, coach Mike Tomlin refused to speculate if Smith s career took a downward spiral after his ill-fated prediction and poor performance against the Patriots. You d have to ask Anthony that, Tomlin said. I m not going to use that game as a turning point or bench mark for anyone or anybody. His career is his career. WILLIE QUESTIONABLE It appears that running back Willie Parker will miss his sixth game of the season. In last week s win over the Bengals, Parker aggravated an injury to his left knee. He missed four games earlier this year with a sprained knee and another game with a shoulder injury. If Parker can t play, Mewelde Moore will start again with Gary Russell serving as the back-up. Fullback Carey Davis can also play the halfback position. In other injury news, defensive end Brett Keisel will definitely miss Sunday s game and perhaps a few more. He suffered a sprained knee against the Bengals. Wide receiver Santonio Holmes, who sustained a concussion against the Bengals, will play, as will

13 .: Print Version :. Page 2 of 2 cornerback Bryant McFadden, who suffered a broken arm in an Oct. 19 win in Cincinnati. BERGER S BACK Tomlin said one of the main reasons why the Steelers re-signed punter Mitch Berger was his role as a holder for kicker Jeff Reed. Berger had spent the first eight weeks of the season with the Steelers but averaged only 41.9 yards per punt. That wasn t up to snuff, Tomlin said, so Berger was cut on Nov. 5. To take his place, the Steelers signed Paul Ernster. But in the last three games, Ernster only averaged 31.6 yards, so he was cut. Jeff is having an awesome season. He s been very consistent for us. When you bring in a guy like Mitch, who s got experience with him in the holding category, it weighs into your decision, Tomlin said. Hopefully, it continues to be an effective element of our game. I m talking about placekicking and Mitch will be a big part of that. We ll need Mitch to do a quality job punting as well. When asked if Berger s pulled hamstring muscles are better, Tomlin said, I ll just go with the bottom line and the punting wasn t up to snuff. LET IT SNOW On a national radio show Tuesday, Tomlin was asked this question: Mike, if a genie could come down and grant you one wish for this game this weekend as far as an aspect of the game that you could control or dominate, what would you wish for? Here s how Tomlin answered that question: I ll take bad weather. Because that s Steelers weather, you know. I know we re playing in New England and I know they re accustomed to playing under those conditions. I just like the look in the eyes of our guys when we re playing in bad weather conditions. I think they enjoy it, man. They re like kids that get an opportunity to go outside and play in some snow.

14 Steelers offer no promises Page 1 of 2 Steelers offer no promises By F. Dale Lolley, Staff writer dlolley@observer-reporter.com PITTSBURGH - If there's one thing that is guaranteed this week, it's that there will be no guarantees coming out of Steelers locker room. Prior to last year's game at New England, Steelers' safety Anthony Smith offered the Patriots some bulletin board material by guaranteeing a Pittsburgh victory. "We're going to win," said Smith, who was starting in place of injured Ryan Clark. "Yeah, I can guarantee a win. As long as we come out and do what we got to do. Both sides of the ball are rolling, and if our special teams come through for us, we've got a good chance to win." The Patriots burned Smith for a pair of long touchdown passes in a victory. They even took some shots at him after the game when the usually reserved head coach Bill Belichick proclaimed, "We've played against a lot better safeties than him, I'll tell you." After that victory, the Patriots (7-4) will have the undivided attention of the Steelers (8-3) this week - guaranteed - even if the Patriots are without injured quarterback Tom Brady, who threw for 399 yards and four touchdowns in that game. "They beat us pretty bad up there," said wide receiver Hines Ward. The Patriots remain dangerous because Matt Cassell, Brady's replacement, has thrown for more than 400 yards in each of the past two games. Sunday's game at New England starts a difficult stretch for the Steelers, perhaps their toughest of the season. After playing the Patriots, they host Dallas before traveling to Baltimore then Tennessee. All four teams are playoff contenders. The Steelers hold a one-game lead over Baltimore in the AFC North standings, having beaten the Ravens earlier in the season. "I didn't care about the schedule in March. I don't care about the schedule now," head coach Mike Tomlin said. "We play New England this week and that's where we're at. And that's where our attention needs to be. I (couldn't) care less what's going to happen in the upcoming month or the subsequent weeks. That's never been our mentality and won't be." Tomlin expects the veterans to help get the team ready to play in each of the upcoming weeks and not overlook any opponent. But the locker room was filled with veterans last season when Smith made his guarantee. "It's good to have a veteran football team, one that understands what this time of year is about and what

15 Steelers offer no promises Page 2 of 2 we're trying to do," Tomlin said. "But at the same time as a coach you don't take that for granted. You talk about what's required this time a year; you talk about what's necessary for us to continue to move in the direction that we're moving." The Steelers probably feel much the same way Smith, now a reserve, did after losing to the Patriots last season. "We come into every game expected to win," said Smith after that game. "I'm not going to go into any game and say we're going to try to win. We've just got to do it the next time." The next time is now. Copyright Observer Publishing Co.

16 Injuries piling up as season wears on Page 1 of 2 Injuries piling up as season wears on By F. Dale Lolley, Staff writer dlolley@observer-reporter.com PITTSBURGH - The Steelers have an 8-3 record despite, at times, looking more like a group of extras from M.A.S.H. than a football team. The Steelers will again be without three starters Sunday in New England, and possibly two others, as they continue to struggle with injuries. Pro Bowl running back Willie Parker is questionable to play because of inflammation in his left knee. If he does not play, it would be the sixth game he's missed this season. After rushing for more than 100 yards in each of the first two games, Parker left the loss at Philadelphia Sept. 21 with a sprained knee. He returned Nov. 3 at Washington, but suffered a sprained shoulder late in the game and sat out Pittsburgh's loss the next week against Indianapolis. He returned to rush for 115 yards in a win over San Diego Nov. 16. But Parker was held to 37 yards on 14 carries last week against Cincinnati, leaving the game in the third quarter after the knee injury flared up. The Steelers are 5-1 with Parker in the lineup, 3-2 without him. Head coach Mike Tomlin said Parker has some swelling in the knee, but if he can practice later in the week, he could play against the Patriots (7-4). If Parker is unable to play, Mewelde Moore would make his fifth start. "We'll see where he is," said Tomlin, who listed Parker as questionable to play. The news is not so good for defensive end Brett Keisel, who left last Thursday's game with the Bengals in the fourth quarter with a sprained knee. Keisel is likely out at least two weeks and possibly longer. He is expected to be replaced by veteran Travis Kirschke. "Travis has been great when called upon," said Tomlin. Tomlin is hopeful that cornerback Bryant McFadden, who has missed five games with a broken forearm, will return this week. McFadden has been practicing the past two weeks, but is listed as questionable. Cornerback Deshea Townsend (hamstring) and left tackle Marvel Smith (back) are out. No ringing endorsement The Steelers released punter Paul Ernster Monday and re-signed Mitch Berger just two weeks after the

17 Injuries piling up as season wears on Page 2 of 2 team had released Berger to sign Ernster. The Steelers had been forced to release Berger after he suffered hamstring injuries in both of his legs, but Ernster averaged just 31.3 yards on 12 punts. When asked if Berger's hamstrings have healed sufficiently, Tomlin replied, "I just go with the bottom line and the punting wasn't up to snuff." Tomlin said that Berger's ability to hold for placekicker Jeff Reed was a factor in his signing. "When you bring in a guy like Mitch, who's got experience with it (holding), it weighs in your decision," Tomlin said. "We'll need Mitch to do a quality job punting as well." Berger has averaged 41.9 yards per punt this season. Hall semifinalists Four men with ties to the Steelers were among the 25 semifinalists being considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Included on that list is cornerback Rod Woodson, one of four players to be a semifinalist in his first year of eligibility for the Hall of Fame. The others first-year eligible players are John Randle, Shannon Sharpe and Bruce Smith. Players must be retired for five years before they can be considered for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Others with ties to the Steelers either as a player or coach who made the cut include center Dermontti Dawson, linebacker Kevin Greene and former offensive line/assistant head coach Russ Grimm - who is being considered for his playing days as a guard with the Washington Redskins. The original list of nominees this year was 113 players. Copyright Observer Publishing Co.

18 The Herald Standard - Sports - - Parker, four other starters may miss New En... Page 1 of 2 Parker, four other starters may miss New England game PITTSBURGH (AP) - The Pittsburgh Steelers, unable to get their running game going recently without Willie Parker, may not have Parker or four other starters for Sunday's key AFC game at New England. Defensive end Brett Keisel could miss three games with a sprained medial collateral ligament. Coach Mike Tomlin also doesn't know if cornerback Deshea Townsend (hamstring, doubtful), cornerback Bryant McFadden (broken forearm, questionable) and left tackle Marvel Smith (back, status uncertain) can play. Smith has missed six games due to persistent back pain and Tomlin said Tuesday he remains "status quo." Wide receiver Santonio Holmes sat out part of the Bengals game with a concussion, but is expected to play. Advertisement Parker is questionable due to left knee inflammation. He missed four games earlier because of a sprained knee and another with a shoulder injury, and the Steelers were 3-2 without him. Parker was held to 37 yards on 14 carries before his knee began bothering him again during a victory over Cincinnati on Thursday. The injury flare-up is occurring at the same time the Steelers' schedule is toughening, with the Patriots (7-4), Cowboys (7-4), Ravens (7-4) and Titans (10-1) upcoming the next four Sundays. Only the Dallas game is in Pittsburgh. Only the New England game is on Tomlin's mind. "I didn't care about the schedule in March. I don't care about the schedule now," Tomlin said. "I really don't. We play New England this week and that's where we're at. And that's where our attention needs to be. I can care less what's going to happen in the upcoming month or the subsequent weeks. That's never been our mentality and won't be." Still, the next four games will play a role in determining playoff position and, Tomlin said, "Hey, our guys know about New England." Losing a three-time 1,000-yard rusher like Parker for nearly half the season has affected the Steelers' ability to mount a running game to complement Ben Roethlisberger, who threw seven interceptions during home-field losses to the Giants and Colts when Parker was out. Mewelde Moore, signed to be the third-down back, took over when Parker hurt his knee Sept. 21 against Philadelphia and averaged 101 yards in three starts. Moore has been held to 110 yards in his past four games, and was stopped twice on important fourth-down runs from inside the 1-yard line against the Colts and Chargers. The Steelers were limited to 3.3 yards per rushing attempt by Cincinnati's 24th-ranked rushing defense, with Moore getting 56 yards on 15 carries. In and out of the lineup, Parker is only 29th in rushing with 485 yards; a season ago, he was leading the league before breaking his right leg during the Steelers' next-to-last game. "We've got to run the ball," Parker said before his knee began hurting again. "We've got to go back to playing Steelers football." That would appear to be important to do against the Patriots, who have beaten the Steelers six of seven times over the past 10 years, counting two AFC championship games in Pittsburgh. New England beat them last season, when safety Anthony Smith guaranteed a victory over the then-unbeaten Patriots. "This week's challenges are significant," Tomlin said. Especially if the Steelers must play with one-quarter of their lineup out. Keisel is a key not only to stopping the run but mounting a pass rush, although Nick Eason and Travis Kirschke filled in effectively when Keisel missed most of four games with a calf injury. "Those guys have proven to us that they're capable of upholding the standard," Tomlin said. "It will be business as usual." Tomlin also said the Steelers brought back punter Mitch Berger, who was cut nearly a month ago, partly because he is kicker Jeff Reed's holder. Berger had two sore hamstrings when he was let go, but replacement Paul Ernster averaged only 31.3 yards before being released Monday. "When you bring in a guy like Mitch, who's got experience with it (holding), it weighs in your decision," Tomlin said. "We'll need Mitch to do a quality job punting as well."

19 The Herald Standard - Sports - - Parker, four other starters may miss New En... Page 2 of 2 Copyright Associated Press 2008 The Herald Standard 2008

20 Steelers' Smith again guarantees victory vs. Patriots Buzz up! Like this story? Share it with Yahoo! Buzz It's take two for Steelers safety Anthony Smith. The defender who guaranteed a victory against the Patriots last December -- only to see the Patriots relish in a win -- is ready to say the Steelers will again roll in New England when the teams meet this Sunday. "If they ask me again, I'll say the same thing," Smith said after last week's game to the Indiana (Pa.) Gazette. The Pittsburgh reserve -- he's played in 10 games as a backup this season -- said his quote was taken out of context last season. But that didn't stop Patriots players, and even coach Bill Belichick, from using it as motivation and even from calling out Smith after last December's game. "We've played against a lot better safeties than him, I'll tell you,'' Belichick said of Smith after the Patriots' win. "The safety play at that position was pretty inviting.'' Smith's experience last year won't stop him from providing the Patriots with bulletin-board fodder again this year. "We're the No. 1 defense,'' he said to the Gazette. "If we play like we've been playing, and our offense comes around and has a good game, and we're clicking on all cylinders, we're going to win the game.''

21 With Cassel, Patriots have some quarterback options to run - The Boston Globe Page 1 of 2 THIS STORY HAS BEEN FORMATTED FOR EASY PRINTING ON FOOTBALL Patriots have options to run through with quarterback By Mike Reiss, Globe Staff November 26, 2008 In the eyes of many, the Patriots this decade have become a model franchise in the NFL - on and off the field. A significant part of their success has been a core fundamental of business: asset management. From acquiring and grooming players, to hiring and grooming bright young coaches, to producing cutting-edge ideas in the front office, the Patriots are well-stocked. Sometimes those assets stick around for the long haul. Other times they end up elsewhere, and in doing so, they can yield a return that helps keep the assetproducing business churning. The list is long, but what has unfolded over the last 2 1/2 months - the rise of quarterback Matt Cassel from unproven, clipboard-holding backup to bona fide starter - trumps all. Now, with Cassel set to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, the question is: What next? "It's remarkable, as he's become a valuable commodity," said former Tennessee Titans general manager Floyd Reese, who now works for ESPN. Some might say this isn't the time for the discussion, with such a vital game to be played Sunday when the Patriots (7-4) host the Steelers (8-3), and it's a fair point. At the same time, Cassel's stunning emergence (he hadn't started a game since high school prior to this season) and potential earning power (he's making the minimum $520,000 this season) are becoming more powerful stories each week. So given all that, what are the Patriots' options with such a valuable asset? One possibility is assigning Cassel the franchise tag. NFL teams can assign the franchise tag to one player each offseason, restricting the player's ability to fully experience the free agent market. The player is tendered a one-year contract at the average of the top five players at the position, which will be approximately $14 million for quarterbacks in Other teams can still sign a player who has been assigned the franchise tag, but they have to surrender two first-round draft choices if the original club doesn't match the offer. The spirit of the franchise tag is for teams to have a chance to retain their top players - the tag offers the sides more time to negotiate a longer-term deal - but it hasn't always been used that way. Just this past offseason, for example, the Packers put the tag on defensive lineman Corey Williams before trading him for a second-round draft choice. The Chiefs did the same with defensive end Jared Allen and acquired a first-round draft choice in a trade. The Patriots previously used the tag on safety Tebucky Jones before trading him. While some might see the tagging of Cassel as potentially violating the spirit of the rule, the Patriots would have a strong case if they made the decision out of concerns about Tom Brady's health. Still, financial considerations could lead the team away from that choice.

22 With Cassel, Patriots have some quarterback options to run - The Boston Globe Page 2 of 2 If Cassel was counting about $14 million against the salary cap, coupled with quarterback Brady's $14.6 million charge, the Patriots would have almost $29 million of the projected $123 million cap on two players. That runs counter to the team's philosophy of spreading the wealth to a variety of players, creating a strong middle class on the roster. "That would be a giant concern, tying up a fourth or fifth of your cap on two players. That is extreme," Reese said. "The other side of it is that quarterback is the most important player, and you have two that are very, very good. "So it's a risk assessment, and you ask, 'Would it be worth it to do this?' It wouldn't shock me either way." The transition tag is another option, although it's seldom used. A player with that tag would be tendered a one-year contract that averages the top 10 salaries at the position, which for quarterbacks could be in the range of $10 million in Other teams could still sign the player, and the original team would not receive any compensation if it chose not to match, so in essence, the transition tag simply gives the original team the right of first refusal. And, of course, there is the outside possibility that the Patriots and Cassel's representatives could hammer out a contract extension before the start of the 2009 league year in late February/early March. But given that Cassel is already close to the open market - which most players yearn to hit just once, especially when their value is rising - there is likely to be little motivation for him to pursue an extension. Plus, the Patriots simply might not be able to offer him what others can: a starting opportunity. Which is why, in the end, the Patriots are likely going to see another team benefit from an asset they produced. In a sense, they are handcuffed by their own success. The consolation prize in that case would be a compensatory draft choice in If Cassel lands a megabucks contract elsewhere - and other pieces fall into place - chances are the Patriots would receive the highest possible compensatory draft choice, a third-rounder. So while they wouldn't receive immediate return on their asset, they could - at the very least - boast that an unheralded backup quarterback gave them one remarkable season few saw coming. Mike Reiss can be reached at mreiss@globe.com Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company

23 Steeler defense is No. 1 issue - The Boston Globe Page 1 of 2 THIS STORY HAS BEEN FORMATTED FOR EASY PRINTING PATRIOTS NOTEBOOK Steeler defense is No. 1 issue League's top unit poses a challenge By Mike Reiss, Globe Staff November 26, 2008 FOXBOROUGH - Having scored 82 points in the last two games and rung up 500 yards in back-to-back contests for the first time in franchise history, the Patriots' offense has been clicking on many cylinders. Next up: the NFL's No. 1 defense. Sunday's contest between the high-flying Patriots and stingy Steelers pits two units performing at top levels, as Pittsburgh's defense has allowed the fewest yards and fewest points in the league. The Steelers also have the league's best red zone defense, surrendering just 11 touchdowns in 32 trips. Furthermore, they allow the fewest rushing yards per carry (2.9) and the fewest passing yards per game (168.8), and their 37 sacks rank second in the NFL. "It is a huge challenge," said Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. "Obviously, there aren't a lot of weaknesses. There really aren't any." Patriots coach Bill Belichick pointed out yesterday that no team has gained more than 300 yards against the Steelers and that about half of the possessions against them are three-and-outs. Belichick called the Steelers "solid across the board" and noted that they are "no one-man band." One thing offensive players can expect to hear from coaches is reducing the margin for error. "They are very sound in what they do, so you have to be just as sound offensively when you play against them or else you end up making mistakes," McDaniels said. "They are capitalizing on a lot of those. You have to avoid those situations. You have to make the most of your opportunities when you get them." Well-rested opponents In a scheduling quirk, the Patriots' next three opponents (Steelers, Seahawks, Raiders) will all have three extra days of preparation because they will have played on Thursday night the prior week. Belichick was asked if he felt having the extra time was beneficial. "I think for most teams with the coaching staff, it is an advantage because you have a little more time to not only look at the most recent games that you have broken down, but the whole season and study with a little more detail," he said. "For the players - now that we are into the season 10, 11, 12 games - I think most teams would use the time to give them a couple extra days to heal up their bumps and bruises." The Patriots were in that situation last week after facing the Jets on Thursday, Nov. 13; they had extra time to prepare for Sunday's win over the Dolphins. "Even though we had extra time and we had more meeting time, we didn't do a whole lot more on the field than we would in a normal Sunday-to-Sunday week," Belichick said. "I think from some of the other coaches I have talked to in the league, that is closer to the norm." Say it again

24 Steeler defense is No. 1 issue - The Boston Globe Page 2 of 2 Steelers safety Anthony Smith drew the ire of Belichick and New England players last year when he said prior to a Dec. 9 game at Foxborough: "Yeah, I can guarantee a win - as long as we come out and do what we got to do." The Patriots won, 34-13, using Smith's words as motivation and targeting him on the field and in the postgame interview room. Smith, now a backup, was asked his thoughts about this Sunday's game and told the Indiana Gazette: "We're the No. 1 defense. If we play like we've been playing, and our offense comes around and has a good game, and we're clicking on all cylinders, we're going to win the game." Time will tell whether those words wind up on the Patriots' bulletin board. Shedding no light Belichick said he had nothing to add on any potential fallout from Matt Light's on-field fight with Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder Sunday. The NFL made no announcement about any disciplinary action on the matter yesterday... Belichick said the team's schedule won't change much this week, although they may do a bit more today so players can leave the stadium earlier on Thanksgiving. "I think if we just push things up a little, everyone will have time to have a good day with their families, which is important," he said... Steelers running back Willie Parker is questionable for Sunday with knee inflammation, while starting defensive end Brett Keisel is out with a sprained medial collateral ligament. Coach Mike Tomlin is not sure whether cornerbacks Deshea Townsend (hamstring) and Bryant McFadden (forearm) and left tackle Marvel Smith (back) will play. Gobbling up wins Since 2001, the Patriots are 48-9 in games played on or after Thanksgiving (including playoffs), the best mark in the NFL... Patriots players in the top five at their positions in fan voting for the Pro Bowl: receiver Randy Moss (fourth), guard Logan Mankins (fifth), Light (third), inside linebackers Tedy Bruschi (fourth) and Jerod Mayo (fifth), and special teamer Larry Izzo (third)... Matt Cassel was nominated as a finalist for the FedEx Air NFL Player of the Week, with fans voting for the winner on NFL.com. Material from the Associated Press was used in this report Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company

25 Vick Pleads Guilty to Dogfighting Charge - NYTimes.com Page 1 of 2 November 26, 2008 Vick Pleads Guilty to Dogfighting Charge By LYNN ZINSER Michael Vick opened the door to a possible early release from federal prison Tuesday by pleading guilty in Virginia to a state charge of dogfighting, a necessary step in his quest to return to the N.F.L. Vick, the former Atlanta Falcons quarterback now serving a 23-month federal term in Leavenworth, Kan., pleaded guilty in Surry County Circuit Court to one count of dogfighting and not guilty to one count of cruelty to animals, which the state then dropped. Circuit Court Judge Samuel Campbell handed down a three-year suspended sentence. The pleas cleared the only outstanding charges against Vick, a move that could lead to an early release from prison to a halfway house. Federal law prohibits prisoners from being released to a halfway house if they have charges pending. Vick, 28, was sentenced in August 2007 and is scheduled for release on July 20, He will serve three years of probation. Vick is expected to apply to Commissioner Roger Goodell for reinstatement to N.F.L. The league suspended him indefinitely in August 2007 when he pleaded guilty to federal charges stemming from a dogfighting ring run from property he owned in rural Virginia. League officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. I want to apologize to the court, my family, and to all the kids who looked up to me as a role model, Vick told Campbell during Tuesday s hearing. Campbell had ordered Vick to appear in court in person because of the intense public interest in the case. He arrived shackled, but the restraints were removed before the hearing. Vick s mother, Brenda Boddie, his brother Marcus Vick and fiancée, Kijafa Frink, attended the hearing. They had no comment as they left the courtroom. Surry County Commonwealth Attorney Gerald Poindexter hugged Boddie before she left. Vick s problems have not been confined to the maze of dogfighting charges. He has filed for bankruptcy, having reportedly squandered the money he earned in six seasons in the N.F.L. as well as from endorsements. Vick was the No. 1 overall draft pick in In 2004 he signed a 10-year, $130 million contract with the Falcons. His financial problems are part of the reason he is expected to appeal for a speedy return to the N.F.L. But Vick will have to persuade Goodell that he deserves reinstatement, which could be a tough sell considering his offenses and the publicity they provoked. In pleading guilty to the federal charges last year,

26 Vick Pleads Guilty to Dogfighting Charge - NYTimes.com Page 2 of 2 Vick admitted to financing the dogfighting ring, bankrolling gambling on fights and to complicity in the killings of at least six dogs that had underperformed. At the time, Goodell wrote in a letter to Vick that his actions were cruel and reprehensible and that his gambling was a violation of the N.F.L. s personal-conduct policy. Even if you personally did not place bets, as you contend, your actions in funding the betting and your association with illegal gambling both violate the terms of your N.F.L. player contract and expose you to corrupting influences in derogation of one of the most fundamental responsibilities of an N.F.L. player, Goodell s letter said. The Humane Society of the United States said it wished that Vick s sentence was stiffer. We had hoped that the Commonwealth of Virginia would send a stronger message that dogfighting crimes are cruel and unacceptable, Michael Markarian, the executive vice president of the Humane Society, said in a statement. Nevertheless, Michael Vick is already paying his debt to society with a federal prison sentence, and his example has demonstrated to people across the country that dogfighting is a dead-end activity that can jeopardize your freedom and your future. Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company Privacy Policy Search Corrections RSS First Look Help Contact Us Work for Us Site Map

27 Quinn's injury worsens, could keep him out for the year Buzz up! Like this story? Share it with Yahoo! Buzz Just days after Browns coach Romeo Crennel reaffirmed Brady Quinn's standing as the team's starting quarterback, Quinn's season may be over. Fox Sports and ESPN report that Quinn will be shut down for the season after a consultation with Dr. James Andrews on Tuesday revealed his finger injury is worsening. The Browns have not confirmed the news. They said Crennel will update Quinn's status at his Wednesday morning meeting with reporters. Quinn injured his right index finger in last Monday's win in Buffalo. Surgery may not be necessary, but its condition has deteriorated. Quinn played in Sunday's loss to the Texans before Crennel replaced him with former starter Derek Anderson. Continuing to play could threaten the tendons on Quinn's hand. Anderson would return to the starting lineup Sunday vs. Indianapolis if Quinn is not able to play.

28 NFL Insider: Ravens' ailing Brigance inspiring team's run - USATODAY.com Page 1 of 2 Powered by NFL Insider: Ravens' ailing Brigance inspiring team's run By Jim Corbett, USA TODAY Advertisement OWINGS MILLS, Md. Who is the strongest Baltimore Raven? Two-time defensive player of the year Ray Lewis? Monstrous defensive tackle Haloti Ngata? Not even close. BRIGANCE Q&A: On speed limits in the Ravens' hallways POWER RANKINGS: Ravens shooting for top-10 spot Head coach John Harbaugh says his 7-4 team's toughest man is director of player development O.J. Brigance, who can't raise his arms to shake hands, yet touches everyone from his motorized cart whether watching practice, in the locker room before and after games or advising players on their futures. The former special teams standout is battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, an incurable neurodegenerative disease. "Here is O.J. Brigance, the mightiest man in the building," Harbaugh says. "O.J. struggles to walk and he's beginning to have trouble talking. Yet everybody in this building knows he's the strongest guy in here." Brigance, 39, says each year more than 5,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. But he considers himself ALS's ambassador. He teaches players the toughest life skill the attitude one chooses when faced with the kind of news Brigance and wife, Chanda, received with his diagnosis in May "O.J. told us he was in a battle and was going to win that battle," general manager Ozzie Newsome says. "He's winning that battle He's having an even bigger impact the way he's living." Brigance played seven seasons, helping the Ravens hoist the Super Bowl XXXV Lombardi Trophy. "O.J. was a wedge buster, the best in the league," says Harbaugh, a former Philadelphia Eagles special teams coach. "He had no fear. It's exactly how he's living. "He's still busting wedges." Brigance not only created his position in 2003, but was recognized as the league's best in 2005 and "We all pray every day for the miracle cure for O.J.," Harbaugh says. "If it doesn't happen, then, the other miracle is O.J. the power of true faith, true strength and true mightiness in how he's showing us how to live." Brigance saved a man's life recently. "A guy in England wrote me an about how much the NFL Network story on me this spring really touched him," Brigance says. "He lost his daughter at 15. He didn't know how he was going to live. After seeing how I've chosen to live my life in spite of ALS, he was