Troy Aikman Divorce? -- I'm Separating from My Wife

Troy Aikman is separating from his wife of 10 years ... the NFL star has announced. The Dallas Cowboys legend released a statement earlier today saying, "This has been a difficult decision for Rhonda and me, but after 10 years of marriage we have decided to separate."

The statement continues, "We remain deeply committed to our children and respectfully ask that you honor our family’s privacy during this period of adjustment."

The couple has two minor daughters together ... and Rhonda has one child from a previous marriage.


News From: WWW.tmz.com

Ben Roethlisberger suspension

Ben, Roethlisberger suspension: NFL commissioner reduces ban of Pittsburgh Steelers QB to four games

Terry Bradshaw's prayers weren't answered. The NFL has reduced Ben Roethlisberger's suspension.

Two days after Bradshaw ripped into Roethlisberger for his actions toward women, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell met with the current Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Friday and reduced his suspension from six games to four. He also praised the 28-year-old for the effort he has shown in trying to improve his behavior.

"You have told me and the Steelers that you committed to making better decisions," Goodell told Roethlisberger, according to a statement released by the league. "Your actions over the past several months have been consistent with that promise, and you must continue to honor that commitment."

The reduction, according to the league, is "contingent on (Roethlisberger) continuing to adhere to the program established by our advisers and avoiding any further violations of the Personal Conduct Policy." While suspended, he must stay away from the Steelers completely and have no contact with the coaches or front office.

Roethlisberger reportedly delivered a tearful apology to his teammates after their final exhibition game on Thursday night. He is eligible to return for the Steelers' Oct. 17 game against the Cleveland Browns.

Roethlisberger was suspended by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy in early March when he was accused of sexually assaulting a college student in a Milledgeville, Ga., bar. He wasn't charged in the incident, but the mountain of evidence against him did not reflect well on him or the league, and obviously convinced Goodell that Roethlisberger did not behave appropriately.

Clearly Bradshaw, a Hall of Famer and former Steelers quarterback, is convinced of that. He's never been a fan of Roethlisberger and he hammered him again on Wednesday during a pointed speech at a luncheon in Shreveport, La.

"Going to bars, treating women like that. . . . Oh my God," Bradshaw said. "I pray they don't cut (his suspension) to four games. I hope they leave it at six."

Read more: www.nydailynews.com

2011 NFL Game Times

2011 NFL Playoff Schedule, Kick Off Times And NFL Point Spreads

2011 NFL Playoff Schedule, Kick Off Times & NFL Point Spreads: The 2011 NFL playoff schedule winds down and we take a look at their respective kick off times and NFL point spreads. The first game on Sunday will take place at Soldier Field at 3:00p.m. ET on FOX when the Chicago Bears (12-5) host the Green Bay Packers (12-6) in the 2011 NFC Conference Championship Game. The NFL point spreads for this showdown opened up with the Packers as -3 point favorites and that spread has moved up to -4 points at Bodog.com. Green Bay has been playing like a team possessed and even if they don’t cover their spread, they will move on to the 2011 Super Bowl two weeks from Sunday. Online Sports Handicapping always offers the most accurate free sports picks and 2011 Super Bowl odds from our dedicated team of 2011 NFL playoff predictions experts. Find our winning NFL picks selection below.

The late game features the Pittsburgh Steelers (13-4) battling the New York Jets (13-5) in the 2011 AFC Conference Championship Game from Heinz Field with the kick off time set for 6:30p.m. ET on CBS. The NFL point spreads for this showdown opened up with the Pittsburgh Steelers as – 3 point home favorites over the Jets. Bettors have slightly favored Pittsburgh slightly in the NFL betting action and that point spread is currently listed at -3½ points at Bodog.com. The Jets have grown accustomed to the underdog/villain role and they have exceled when playing the part. That will be no different this week. Our team of 2011 NFL playoff predictions experts has the New York Jets (+170) pulling off the upset against the AFC North Champion Pittsburgh Steelers (-200).

Point Spreads NFL Playoff Odds 295% Bonus Sports Odds

Super Bowl XLV will feature both number six seeds when the Green Bay Packers and the New York Jets face off in Dallas on Sunday, February 6th at 6:30p.m. ET on FOX. The Jets will cap off a miraculous season with a Super Bowl victory in a game where the NFL point spreads will most likely favor the Green Bay Packers by -2 points since the game will take place at a neutral location. Our team of 2011 Super Bowl predictions experts have the New York Jets (+350) beating the Green Bay Packers (+160) in Super Bowl XLV, where the NFL betting odds will likely open up with the Packers favored by -3 points.

If you’re looking for the inside edge, subscribe to our Free Sports Picks Newsletter and get the insight you need to make an informed decision from the Top NFL Handicapping Experts before every sports wager.

Laura Vikmanis Redefining NFL Cheerleading

Laura Vikmanis: Meet The Mom Who Is Redefining NFL Cheerleading!

Cheerleaders are supposed to be sweet young things that capture the ideal view of youth. At least that’s what cheerleaders used to be until mom Laura Vikmanis decided to pick up her pom-poms and bring the role of cheerleader into the modern age.

The 42-year-old mom-of-two may be one of the oldest folks on the sidelines every time she puts on her BenGALS uniform to cheer on the NFL team, but she’s proud of the fact that she can serve as an inspiration for other moms about just what is possible over the age of 40.

It’s really her own daughters - Lila, 14, and Alexa, 12 – that she wants to inspire most to live out their dreams. She asays, “I look at myself as a role model for my children to show them no matter what age or dream you have, you can work really hard and achieve it.”

Deer Antler NFL found Spray

NFL bans substance found in a spray derived from deer antlers

This story is as weird as the recent deodorant commercials Ray Lewis stars in.

The scariest man in the NFL and former University of Miami star has been implicated in a drug scandal that involves body parts from a deer. Yes, deer!

Apparently, Lewis uses a mouth spray derived from the velvet on deer antlers from New Zealand that essentially works as a Fountain of Youth and keeps his body fresh and helps him recover after dishing out dozens of violent hits every week similar to how a performing enhancement drug like HGH would.

While the antler brew is derived from a natural substance, it contains IGF-1, a substance banned by the NFL, reports the Baltimore Sun. The deer antlers are also crushed up and put in capsules to be taken in pill form.

It's official: Athletes will do anything to get ahead. Boxers and baseball players have turned to their own urine for an edge, others have used teas and herbs, both illegal and allowed, but if the allegations are true, Lewis has gone buck wild.

The supplier of the deer spray, Mitch Ross, said he has provided 25 bottles of his youth-enducing brew to the All Pro linebacker in the past two years and has the text messages to prove it.

Lewis, a15-year veteran, had his best statistical seasons in six years in 2010 and didn't miss a game. He recorded 139 total tackles while leading the Baltimore Ravens' stingy defense.

Lewis, whose Ravens were knocked out of the playoffs last weekend, has not commented on the controversy, but he has never failed an NFL-sanctioned drug test.

But Yahoo! Sports claims the antler spray wouldn't be detected because it would be found in the blood stream and not the urine, which the NFL tests.

Cincinnati Bengals safety Roy Williams said he uses the spray also, which begs the question how many tough NFL players are turning to Bambi for a pick me up?

2011 NFL Playoff Predictions

Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears 2011 NFL Playoff Predictions

Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears 2011 NFL Playoff Predictions: The Chicago Bears (12-5) will be tested a lot harder by the Green Bay Packers (12-6) in the NFC Championship Game than they were in their only other playoff game so far against the Seattle Seahawks. The score to their divisional round may indicate it was a closer game than it really was. The Pack went from the last team to clinch to being the 2011 NFL playoff predictions’ favorites to win Super Bowl XLV. Online Sports Handicapping always offers the most accurate free sports picks and 2011 Super Bowl Odds from our dedicated team of 2011 NFL playoff predictions experts.

The NFL betting odds for this game opened up with the Packers as -3 point favorites over the Bears, and heavy action on the Packers since then has bumped the NFC Conference championship point spread up to -4 points at Bodog.com. If you want to take the Packers, do it sooner rather than later as that spread is likely to move up a little more before kickoff. The Packers have been playing tremendous defense, particularly against the run. Chicago running back Matt Forte will be contained in the running game. Forte’s strength is being a dual threat out of the backfield and if the Packers can take away one of his strengths and make this Bears offense one-dimensional, then Jay Cutler will get caught trying to force some throws into that world-class secondary. The 2011 NFL playoff lines at SBG Global Sportsbooks have the Green Bay Packers (-200) pegged to win the 2011 NFC Conference Championship Title over the Chicago Bears (+170).

Point Spreads  |  NFL Playoff Odds  |  295% Deposit Bonus  |  Sports Odds

With Green bay’s defense keeping Jay Cutler on the bench, the Packers will grind out this game and frustrate the Bears like they did to their previous two victims. With so many opportunities, look for Aaron Rodgers to find a rhythm on offensive and play the short game until he sees an opportunity to take a shot down field to Greg Jennings, which has become his go-to guy on offense. The Packers will win the turnover battle and the time of possession battle, and while Chicago may score a touchdown at the end of the game to make it look closer than it really was, look for this one to be decided before the fourth quarter. Our team of 2011 NFL playoff predictions experts have the Green Bay Packers not only winning the game, but covering their -3 (-110) point spread, and advancing to Dallas for the 2011 Super Bowl.

If you’re looking for the inside edge, subscribe to our Free Sports Picks Newsletter and get the insight you need to make an informed decision from the Top NFL Handicapping Experts before every sports wager.

NFL Playoff Schedule

2010 - 2011 NFL Playoff Schedule

The Following is the 2010-2011 NFL Playoff schedule with opponents, times, updated scores and more. If you are looking for winning NFL playoff picks don't miss out on the guaranteed winning playoff picks from Doc's Sports. Visit the individual expert handicapper pages on the left side bar in the "Advisory Board" section for free picks and betting advice.
Wild Card Weekend - Saturday, Jan. 8

Wild Card Weekend - Sunday, Jan. 9

Divisional Playoffs - Saturday, Jan. 15

Divisional Playoffs - Sunday, Jan. 16

Conference Championships - Sunday, Jan. 23

Pro Bowl, Jan. 30 @ Aloha Stadium, (Honolulu, HI)
AFC vs. NFC 7 pm p.m. Fox

Super Bowl XLV, Feb. 6 @ Cowboys Stadium (Arlington, TX)
6:30 p.m. Fox

Nfl Schedule

Nfl Schedule, (CP) – BALTIMORE (13-4) at Pittsburgh (12-4) Saturday 16:30 CBS
Opening line – Pittsburgh by 3 1 / 2
RECORD VS. SPREAD – Baltimore, 9-8, 9-6-1 Pittsburgh
Series of recordings – Lead Steelers 20-12
LAST MEETING – Steelers beat Ravens 13-10, December 5, 2010
LAST WEEK – Ravens beat Chiefs 30-7, bye Steelers
GENERAL (22), RUSH (14), PASS (20) – INFRINGEMENT RAVENS
GENERAL (10), RUSH (5), PASS (21) – RAVENS DEFENSE
GENERAL (14), RUSH (11), PASS (14) – INFRINGEMENT STEELERS
GENERAL (2), RUSH (1), PASS (12) – STEELERS DEFENSE
Striations, STATS AND NOTES – On the basis of winning percentage, the Ravens (9-5, 0643) and Steelers (31-10, 0620) own two main documents NFL playoffs. Baltimore is 7-3 in playoff road games. Steelers are 18-8 at home, 5-3 since 2001. Pittsburgh is 7-1 in the playoffs since 2005 with a loss of only Jacksonville, wild card round in 2007. … Steelers, Ravens tied AFC North title, but Pittsburgh won tiebreaker with the better division record. … All but one of the last seven games Ravens-Steelers was decided by 4 points or less. … Pittsburgh is 2-0 against the Ravens in postseason, winning in 2001 and 2008 seasons. Pittsburgh beat Baltimore 23-14 in a match of the AFC championship two seasons ago before beating Arizona 27-23 in the Super Bowl. … Or Ravens or Steelers have the best running back 100 yards over the last 14-playoff games. Washington (17 games) has the longest ongoing series. Steelers allowed an average of 62.8 yards per game this season, third lowest since 1970 merger of the NFL. … Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger is 8-2 in season’s end. Ravens Joe Flacco is the first QB to start and win playoff game in each of the first three seasons. … Ravens coach John Harbaugh is 2-5 against Pittsburgh, but he and Barry Switzer are only two head coaches in the NFL to win playoff games in each of the first three seasons. … Ravens RB Ray Rice averaged 128.3 yards rushing and receiving in his last three-playoff games. RB Rice is in the 50 games to run for at least 100 yards against Pittsburgh. He gained 141 yards in 23-20 losses to the Ravens at Heinz Field December 27, 2009. … Ravens RB Willis McGahee has four touchdowns rushing in his last four-playoff games. … Baltimore has 29 interceptions in the game post-season 14, including three against Kansas City. … By winning, the Steelers in a close victory Cowboys (33 wins) for most in the post-season. Dallas appeared in 57 playoff games, Pittsburgh 51. Pittsburgh cannot access the games of the 15th conference title, surpassing Dallas (14) for the most since 1970. … Steelers are 8-0 in playoff series against division opponents since 1970 ger Wed Their only loss was comparable in 1947, when they were beaten by Philadelphia in a playoff game in the Eastern Conference for the Right to advance NFL title game. … Steelers WR Hines Ward needs an outlet to overcome Thurman Thomas (76 catches) for the fifth most receptions playoffs. … Steelers LB LaMarr Woodley has eight sacks in four playoff games.
___
GREEN BAY (11-6) at Atlanta (13-3)
Saturday, 20 am, FOX
Opening line – Atlanta by 1 1 / 2
RECORD VS. Green Bay 10-7, 11-5 Atlanta – SPREAD
SERIES RECORD – Tied 13-13
LAST MEETING – Falcons beat Packers 20-17, November 28, 2010
LAST WEEK – Packers beat Eagles 21-16; bye Falcons
INFRINGEMENT PACKERS – GENERAL (9), RUSH (24), PASS (5)
PACKERS DEFENSE – OVERALL (5), RUSH (18), PASS (5)
INFRINGEMENT Falcons – GENERAL (16), RUSH (12), PASS (15)
Falcons DEFENSE – OVERALL (16), RUSH (10), PASS (22)
Striations, STATS AND NOTES – Packers come off playoff road win since their first victory against San Francisco 49ers in 1997 NFC championship. … Green Bay is 4-5 in Round of playoffs division, Atlanta is 2-4. … Falcons beat Packers 20-17 in the regular season on goal by Matt Bryant field from 47 yards with nine seconds remaining. … Green Bay’s third best winning percentage in the league post-season with 26-16 record (0619). By comparison, Atlanta is 6-9 playoff marks, but Falcons are 3-1 at home. … Falcons went 7-1 at the Georgia Dome during the regular season, losing only against New Orleans 17-14 next week before last. Since the beginning of the 2008 season, Atlanta has best mark at home in the NFC (20-4) and trails only New England (21-3) in general. … Atlanta-field advantage in NFC playoffs for only the second time in team history. It was first held in 1980, when Falcons lost 30-27 to Dallas at the old Atlanta Fulton County Stadium in divisional round. … Will third playoff meeting between the Packers and Falcons. During the 2002 season, Atlanta became the first road team to beat Packers post-season at Lambeau Field, winning 27-7 behind Michael Vick and stifling defense. Green Bay won 37-20 wild-card confrontations in 1995. … Green Bay six losses this season were by a combined 20 points. The average margin of 3.33 is the lowest in the NFL. … Atlanta WR Roddy White led the NFL with his best catch-115. He ranked second with 1,389 yards, trailing Denver Brandon Lloyd (1,448). … Packers have never attended by more than seven points in a game this season. … Falcons were the least penalized team in the league, noted that 3.6 times per game. Green Bay finished third at 4.7. … The two teams also ranked among the top 10 in turnover margin, with Packers Atlanta fourth and ninth. … Green Bay had three receivers catch at least 50 for the first time in their history: Greg Jennings (76) Donald Driver (51) and James Jones (50). … Falcons will have to deal with the player who was not a factor in their first meeting. RB James Starks ran for 123 yards in wild-card victory over Philadelphia, more than it had during the entire regular season. … Packers QB Aaron Rodgers has spent seven touchdowns in the first two career playoff games, an NFL record. Five SBC had previously shared the mark with six. … Falcons QB Matt Ryan has a 20-2 career record as a starter at the Georgia Dome. … Green Bay has allowed just 15 points per game during the regular season, second in the league behind Pittsburgh (14.5). In five of the last nine games, Packers allowed seven points or less.
___
SEATTLE (8-9) AT CHICAGO (11-5)
Sunday, 13 am, FOX
Opening line – Chicago by 9 1 / 2
RECORD VS. SPREAD – Seattle 8-9-0, 9-6-1 Chicago
Series of recordings – Seahawks lead 8-5
LAST MEETING – Bears beat Seahawks 23-20, October 17, 2010
LAST WEEK – Seahawks beat New Orleans 41-36; bye Bears
GENERAL (28), RUSH (31), PASS (19) – INFRINGEMENT SEAHAWKS
GENERAL (27), RUSH (21), PASS (27) – SEAHAWKS DEFENSE
INFRINGEMENT BEAR – GENERAL (30), RUSH (22), PASS (28)
BEARS DEFENSE – OVERALL (9), RUSH (2), PASS (20)
Striations, STATS AND NOTES – Matt Hasselbeck threw for 242 yards and touchdown in the first meeting, Mike Williams had 10 catches and 123 yards and the defense sacked Jay Cutler of Seattle six times. Seattle stood bye and had made several major trends that have led to the game, receiver Deion Branch trade of New England and the acquisition of Marshawn Lynch in Buffalo. Cutler, who was 17, 39, declined to pass 47 times in that game while you spend only 12 times. … Bears beat Seahawks 27-24 in overtime in the playoff game of the division on how the Super Bowl four years ago, winning goal Robbie Gould field of 49 yards. Chicago Rex Grossman threw for 282 yards in that game. … Only 21 of the 53 players on the Seahawks active roster were with the team last season. … Lynch’s tackle-breaking 67-yard run last week caused a seismic event to be recorded by sensors outside Qwest Field. … Hasselbeck threw four touchdown passes last week. Three-time Pro Bowler is 5-5 in the early post-season 10 in Seattle. … Bears have a better record on the road (6-2) at home (5-3) regular season. … Bears in the playoffs for the 25th time and third in seven seasons under the guidance of Lovie Smith. Chicago is 16-17 at the end of the season, including 11-7 at home. … Offense had 258 rushing attempts and 276 pass plays (attempts more bags) during the last nine regular season games. … Bears defense held offenses to 256 points (16 ppg), fourth-less NFL. Chicago has allowed 14 passing TDs, the second fewest in the NFL. … The Bears had 35 takeaways, tied for third in the league. … Cutler threw for 3,274 yards, the third in their history, and became the first Bears QB to throw for 3,000 in seasons back-to-back. … RB Matt Forte ran for 717 yards last nine games while averaging 4.9 per carry, eighth in the league during that period. Forte finished with 1,069 rushing yards and 547 receiving, joining Walter Payton as only Bears with 1,000 yards rushing and 500 receiving in the same season. He also had three touchdowns receiving, tied for most among NFL running backs this season. … Devin Hester set the NFL record with his statement of career a kick 14th TD, and Eric Metcalf tied the record with his 10th TD punt return. His average of 17.1 yards on punt returns was the best ever among those who are 30 or more in a season.
___
New York Jets (12-5) AT NEW ENGLAND (14-2)
Sunday, 4:30 p.m., CBS
Opening line – New England 8 1 / 2
RECORD VS. SPREAD – New York 10-7, 11-5 New England
SERIES RECORD – Tied 51-51-1
LAST MEETING – Patriots beat Jets 45-3, December 6, 2010
LAST WEEK – Jets beat Colts 17-16; Patriots bye
BREACH OF JETS – GENERAL (11), RUSH (4), PASS (22)
JETS DEFENSE – OVERALL (3), RUSH (3), PASS (6)
INFRINGEMENT PATRIOTS – Overall (8), RUSH (9), PASS (11)
PATRIOTS DEFENSE – OVERALL (25), RUSH (11), PASS (30)
Striations, STATS AND NOTES – fierce rivals split the season series with both winning at home, with the Jets 28-14 victory on Sept. 19 and with the Patriots 45-3 victory on Dec. 6. … Tom Brady is 14-4 against the Jets, including 1-0 in playoffs. … Since 2000, the Jets’ five victories in Foxborough Patriots are the most by an opponent during this period. … Jets will set franchise record for road victories in a season with their eighth defeat if Patriots. They are tied with the team last year, which had won seven away from home on the road to the championship game of the AFC. … In the post-season games four sub Rex Ryan, Jets averaged 148.8 yards rushing. Shona Greene has 374 meters of these games, already ranks third in franchise post-season history in only his second NFL season. … QB Mark Sanchez is 3-1 late in the season with 4 TDs and 3 interceptions and 83.2 QB rating. If strong second half against Indianapolis, a leader on the Jets coaching victory with less than minute, completing all three of his passes for 45 yards. Said his sore right shoulder, which had been bothering him since last month, the best he has felt in three or four weeks. … K Nick Folk FG kicks of 32 yards to beat Colts as time expired. … RB LaDainian Tomlinson has struggled in the playoffs especially in career, but was outstanding in the first game post-season Jets while rushing for 82 yards and two touchdowns and caught four passes for 17 yards vs. Colts. … RT Damien Woody was placed on season-ending IR earlier this week after suffering left Achilles tendon injury in the Colts victory on Saturday. He will be replaced by veteran backup Wayne Hunter. … DE Shaun Ellis to extend his franchise record for most games played post-season with his 11th on Sunday. … CB Darrelle Revis come off impressive performance vs. Colts in which he held Reggie Wayne to a catch of 1 yard. … LB Jason Taylor is NFL career active leader in sacks, but failed to bring down a QB in the post-season games in seven years. … P Steve Weatherford tied the NFL record by placing 42 punts inside the 20-yard line during the regular season. … Patriot’s layoffs p for the 12th time in 17 seasons Robert Kraft as the owner. … They led the NFL in scoring with 32.4 points per game and tied the NFL record by scoring own at least 30 points in eight consecutive games, capped by winning 38-7 in the final in Miami. … Brady has won NFL-record 28 straight home starts during the regular season but lost the last game of the playoffs it, 33-14 in the first round last season. Brady threw three interceptions in that game against the Ravens, but this season he threw only four interceptions and 36 touchdowns. … Danny Woodhead, cut by Jets after first game, ran for 547 yards and five touchdowns and caught 34 passes for 1 TD for the Patriots. … With 86 catches, 432 Wes Welker has the last four seasons, most in the NFL. … Patriot’s rookie CB Devin McCourty, first-round pick from Rutgers, tied for second in the NFL with 7 interceptions. … Shayne Graham K has made all 12 of his FG attempts in eight games since he took when Stephen Gostkowski went on the disabled list with a hamstring injury. … Patriots are 11-2 in playoff games at home. Loss ravens beat 11 games winning streak in Foxborough. … Patriots committed 10 turnovers, least in the NFL since he went to the 16-game schedule 1978.

Ravens vs. Steelers

Ravens vs. Steelers could be test case for new NFL OT rules

PITTSBURGH — The NFL's new overtime rule for the playoffs is in force. It has yet to be used. Given the history of tight finishes between the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers, might OT enter the equation here Saturday?

"Hey, if I had to bet which two teams are going to be the first ones to go do it, it would be Baltimore and Pittsburgh," says Steelers linebacker Larry Foote.

"I mean every game is decided by three points. It seems like every game is going to go down to it. So I'd like to see it. As long as we're the last team standing, I'm cool."

PLAYOFF PICKS: Our analysts choose this weekend's winners
WHO HAS THE EDGE? Breaking down Ravens vs. Steelers

Pittsburgh and Baltimore play at least twice a year in the AFC North. In five of their last six regular season meetings, the margin of victory has been three points (with the teams entering overtime twice in the past three seasons). The lone exception was a four-point Pittsburgh win, 13-9 in Baltimore in 2008.

The last playoff meeting between the two wasn't quite that close at the finish, but it was tight. Pittsburgh won the AFC title game 23-14 here in the 2008 season with the help of a late interception return touchdown by Troy Polamalu.

In 2010, the Ravens won 17-14 in October in Pittsburgh. The Steelers won 13-10 in Baltimore in December.

PLAYOFFS: Results, schedule on Road to Super Bowl

"To me, it's definitely the best rivalry in sports. … It's the most physical game of the year.," says Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs.

"So, that's just what it is. It's going to be a physical gang fight, just like the first two games were."

Except maybe longer.

Under the new overtime rule:

• If the team that gets the ball first in overtime scores a touchdown on its first drive, the game is over.

• If the team that gets the ball first scores a field goal on its first drive, the other team gets a chance with the ball. If it scores a touchdown, it wins. If it gets a matching field goal, play continues until the next score.

Both teams must get the opportunity to possess the ball in overtime — as long as the opening drive doesn't end in a touchdown.

The first case could happen here.

"Yeah it could. That's a new rule that none of us have ever had to deal with, really. It's not so much emphasis on the coin toss as there used to be," says Steelers defensive end Brett Keisel.

"But hopefully it doesn't get to that point. Hopefully, we can just take care of business in the four quarters we're allotted."

If neither team manages that, it could come down to the placekickers: Shaun Suisham of Pittsburgh and Billy Cundiff of Baltimore.

While Suisham says invocation of the new rule "would be interesting," he would prefer to see Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger taking a knee at the end of the game to wrap up a victory.

"I'd rather see the guys in victory formation, but if I'm asked to do it I certainly will be ready," says Suisham.

He says the new rule won't make his job any different.

"No, absolutely. I don't ever want to over-complicate what I do. I go on the field and kick the ball through the uprights," says Suisham.

This time, Suisham or Cundiff might have to kick more than one field goal in overtime to win.

"You never know what's going to happen during the game," says Suisham. "I'll be prepared for whatever I'm asked to do."

Casey Matthews News Reports

2011 NFL Draft Player Profile: Casey Matthews

If you haven’t heard of the Matthews family by now, you most likely live under a rock. It’s no secret that they are one of the most dominant football families to ever play in the NFL. Clay Matthews Sr., and Clay Matthews Jr. are the most well know, as well as his uncle Bruce Matthews who will go down as one of the best offensive tackles to ever play the game. His grandfather Clay Matthews I was a standout in the 1950’s, as well.
While his brother walked on and under-achieved at USC, Casey wasn’t as fortunate. He was an undersized three star recruit coming out of Oaks Christian High School. He received scholarship offers from numerous Pac-10 schools, as well as a few medium ranged ACC schools. He chose Oregon in the end, and played in all 11 games in his freshman year.
Casey may not be as physically gifted as his brother Clay, but there’s no doubt that he’s just as intelligent and has a great work ethic.
Player Name: Casey Matthews
Position: Inside Linebacker
School: Oregon
Height: 6’2
Weight: 237
Strengths
Matthews’ biggest strength is his athleticism. He’s also an extremely intelligent player who does well reading and reacting to the offensive play on every down. He has a non-stop motor, playing well sideline to sideline. He’s a very good tackler, who’s very fundamentally sound. He doesn’t often get caught out of position, and he uses his athleticism to make up for his lack of overall bulk. Matthews is also excellent in making plays in coverage. He covers his zone almost effortlessly, and has a knack for finding the ball. He’s an underrated pass rusher on the inside, and has the speed to maybe make the transition to the OLB position in a 3-4, although that may not utilize his skill-set to the maximum. However, his versatility is fantastic and will be coveted among teams in the 2011 NFL Draft.
Weaknesses
The biggest knock on Matthews is his size. He’s not the biggest or strongest player on the football field. He plays in a very loosely based zone defense in Oregon which helps his athleticism shine. He may not be able to transition to a 3-4 defense because of his inability to frequently get off of blockers. He’s most likely restricted to a 4-3 role, but he’s versatile enough to play all three linebacker positions in a 4-3 scheme. While he’s not weak by any means, he still needs to improve on his strength and use his arms to get off blocks, rather than getting fully engaged with blockers.
Draft Range
Right now, it’s completely open where Matthews goes. His brother, Clay, had some of the same weaknesses coming out, not being a big, strong linebacker. But hard work propelled him into the first, and Casey could do the same if he works out well enough at the combine. Right now, his ceiling is as high as a late first round pick, but he’ll most likely be selected between the middle of the second round and middle of the third round. Look for teams like Indianapolis, Philadelphia, New Orleans, and Detroit to target him. If teams feel he can make the transition to 3-4, it could improve his stock heavily as teams like Cleveland, Buffalo, Arizona, and Green Bay could look at grabbing him in the 2011 NFL Draft.

Eagles vs Packers NFL playoffs 2011

Eagles vs Packers live stream – free watch online NFL playoffs 2011 Wild Card Weekend football games

Watch Green Bay Packers vs Philadelphia Eagles live stream online free NFL Wild Card playoffs 2011 football games
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Eagles vs. Packers Wild Card Game Inactives: No Bradley or Jean-Gilles

The Eagles and Packers have announced their inactive players for their playoff showdown:

Eagles: S Jamar Adams, LB Stewart Bradley, DT Jeremy Clark, G Max Jean-Gilles, T Austin Howard, CB Brandon Hughes, QB Mike Kafka, DE Bobby McCray

Packers: S Atari Bigby, G Evan Dietrich-Smith, CB Josh Gordy, DT Howard Green, FB Korey Hall, QB Graham Harrell, G Nick McDonald, LB Frank Zombo

The Eagles will be without two starters for this game as Jean-Gilles and Bradley are unable to go. Filling in at right guard will be Nick Cole, who hasn't started a game since Week 11. Filling in at middle linebacker for Bradley will once again be Jamar Chaney, who has done quite well considering he is just a rookie. There was some hope that Bradley would be able to play today but apparently his elbow just isn't strong enough for him to be effective.

This one promises to be a good one, folks. The Eagles and Packers are very closely matched and there should be plenty of offensive fireworks. Let's hope Michael Vick can work his magic. GO BIRDS!

Colts Vs Jets NFL Playoffs 2011

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Colts Vs. Jets: Wild Card Weekend Late Game Open Thread 

Wasn't sure how many of you were interested in the New Orleans Saints and Seattle Seahawks game in the NFC, but I know Steeler Nation will be keeping a very close eye on the evening game in the AFC between the Indianapolis Colts and the AFC East runner up New York Jets.

I'll be tuned in to see who advances on to the Divisional Round, so join me and other Steelers fans to talk about the opening round action in the AFC as it unfolds right here.

Seahawks Open Game Thread

NFL, Playoffs, Are Finally Here: Saints-Seahawks, Jets-Colts

This one has implications for the Falcons, so you're going to want to watch it closely.

If the Saints best the Seahawks, they're perhaps the Falcons' likeliest opponent, especially if the Eagles manage to take care of business against the Packers. That would set up another truly epic confrontation between NFC South opponents.

Of course, down a running game and several other players, the Saints won't find Qwest Field hospitable. They're even less likely to find solace in the snow in the forecast for today. An upset is exceedingly unlikely, but I expect we'll all be rooting hard for it.

Jim Harbaugh

Jim Harbaugh Signs With The San Francisco 49ers

SAN FRANCISCO -- All week, Jim Harbaugh had a good feeling about making the jump to the NFL and joining the San Francisco 49ers -- just the way mentor and late Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh did more than 30 years ago.
Harbaugh signed a five-year, $25 million contract, league sources told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Declaring it a "perfect competitive opportunity," Harbaugh accepted the job as coach of the 49ers on Friday and said his goal is to win a Lombardi Trophy for "one of the legendary franchises in all of football."
The successful Stanford coach receives a five-year deal and gets to remain right at home in the Bay Area, moving to the NFL after four years with the Cardinal. A longtime NFL quarterback, he replaces fired coach Mike Singletary.
Harbaugh decided to leave Stanford for the pros even though San Francisco has missed the playoffs for eight straight seasons and Orange Bowl MVP quarterback Andrew Luck announced Thursday he would remain at Stanford for another season.
"I can feel the enthusiasm coursing through my veins right now," said Harbaugh, who was going to team headquarters Friday night to get to work. "I accept this competitive challenge willingly."
The 49ers pulled out all the stops to introduce him. The swanky Palace Hotel in downtown San Francisco rolled out a special red carpet for Harbaugh's arrival, and he showed up in a limousine for a news conference that began with a music video featuring team highlights.
The Cardinal (12-1) finished with a school-record 12 wins following a 40-12 victory over Virginia Tech in the Orange Bowl on Monday night. It's been a whirlwind week to say the least.
Harbaugh has long admired Walsh and how he made the successful leap from Stanford to the 49ers. Harbaugh knew the man nicknamed "The Genius" for 18 years and once received footwork tips from the coach while playing for the Bears. "Everything that came out of his mind, his heart, his mouth, I hung on every single word."
Walsh thought up the original schemes that became known as the West Coast offense, which Harbaugh plans to run with the 49ers. Harbaugh has a picture of Walsh he looks at each day taped to his computer screen, but says it will be a while before any comparisons can be made of the two.
While Harbaugh said he had all but made up his mind to accept the 49ers' offer following a meeting of more than six hours that went into Wednesday evening, he took a couple of days to hear out his other suitors and do his "homework" -- and "do some soul searching" as new 49ers general manager Trent Baalke put it.
"I knew in my heart and my gut the right decision was with the San Francisco 49ers," he said.
After quite a run at Stanford, Harbaugh will head some 10 miles along the 101 freeway from Stanford to turn around a once-proud franchise that is desperate to become a contender again right away. The 49ers were expected to win the NFC West this season, then began 0-5 for their worst start since losing seven straight to begin a 2-14 season in 1979, Walsh's first year as coach.
The 49ers finished 6-10 this year -- in the chase for a playoff berth in the NFL's worst division until the second-to-last week -- and haven't had a winning season since their last trip to the playoffs in 2002.
"I met this man six or seven years ago at a college All-Star game and I fell in love with his energy," Baalke said. "This is the start of a new generation. ... What we have to do is bring back the culture of winning. He's a guy who can lead the 49ers franchise back to where it rightfully belongs."
Harbaugh likely will be grooming a new quarterback in the coming months. Alex Smith, the 2005 No. 1 overall draft pick out of Utah, becomes a free agent. So, finding a QB is high on the team's to-do list heading into what should be a busy offseason.
Once the season begins, Harbaugh will face a familiar foe -- big brother John Harbaugh, coach of the Baltimore Ravens. Jim Harbaugh won't be attending his brother's playoff game in Kansas City this weekend after all.
"Let me tell you guys out in San Francisco, you got a great one," John Harbaugh said. "I'm very happy he's not in the AFC. We'll see him once every four years and Super Bowls -- hopefully we could get a couple of those. ... I got a feeling you'll see two pretty similarly built football teams."
Niners team president and CEO Jed York said when Singletary was fired that money would be no object in finding the team's next coach. He promoted vice president of player personnel Baalke to GM earlier this week, then they worked together to make their push for Harbaugh, who also was in talks with the Miami Dolphins and Stanford.
The 49ers didn't put him on a deadline, telling Harbaugh, "There can't be any doubt in your mind," York said. Harbaugh asked for Thursday night to "sleep on it," then signed his deal Friday. He also informed Luck and his players at Stanford.
Harbaugh insists this move wasn't all about money. He reportedly had an offer for more from Miami.
"It wasn't the factor. I like a buck just like the next guy, but I love coaching and I love winning and I love football," he said. "The factor that dictated my being here was that Trent and Jed and the 49er organization wanted me to be here and I wanted to be here as much or more than they wanted me. Here I am."
The 47-year-old Harbaugh went 58-27 overall as a college coach and 29-21 in four seasons at Stanford. He took over a 1-11 team when he was hired in December 2006 and quickly turned the program back into a winner and bowl contender.
The Cardinal went 4-8 in his first season, 5-7 the next, then improved to 8-5 and earned a Sun Bowl berth in 2009 -- the school's first bowl appearance since 2001.
His next challenge will be getting San Francisco back to the playoffs.
"It's the process of building a team, being part of a team and leading a team, and working at it," Harbaugh said. "It's committing a lot of energy to it. There are definitely similarities."
When Stanford arrived back on campus Tuesday, one man hollered "Stay in the Bay Area!" when Harbaugh hopped off the bus carrying his 2-year-old daughter, Addison. He also has a newborn baby girl. Not having to move his family across the country was an added bonus.
Harbaugh was the Oakland Raiders quarterbacks coach from 2002-03 before spending three seasons as head coach at the University of San Diego. He said he recently spoke to Raiders owner Al Davis, but not specifically about the now-vacant Oakland coaching job.
Harbaugh, a college star at Michigan where there also is a coaching vacancy after the firing of Rich Rodriguez, played 15 seasons in the NFL for the Bears, Colts, Ravens, Chargers and Panthers. A first-round draft pick taken 26th overall by Chicago in 1987, Harbaugh completed 2,305 of 3,918 passes for 26,288 career yards and 129 touchdowns in the NFL. He also ran for 18 TDs.
For York and the front office, landing Harbaugh was the first goal.
"This is a very happy day but our work didn't end today," York said. "It just begins today."
"Losing is not an option," Harbaugh said.
Information from ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter and The Associated Press was used in this report.