By Laura Keeley , Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

Tampa Men

Coach: Richard Schmidt (570-254, 29th season at UT)

Last season: 22-7 (10-6 Sunshine State Conference)

Notable: After posting their fewest losses since the 2001-02 campaign, the Spartans were picked this year to finish eighth out of nine teams in the Sunshine State Conference due to the graduation of their two top scorers, who averaged a combined 34.9 points per game. Tampa does return two starters, junior Callum Townsend and senior Ashton Graham, who averaged 8.7 and 8.4, respectively.

Roster

No. Player Ht. Pos. Yr.

3 Jon Riles 6-2 G Fr.

4 Tariq Mackey 6-3 G So.

10 Ryan Kidd 6-3 G So.

12 Terrell Pritchett 5-10 G Fr.

20 Eric Moraes 6-5 G/F So.

23 Dylan DeFeo 6-3 G Sr.

24 Ashton Graham 6-4 G Sr.

25 Brian Wright 6-4 G Sr.

30 Ben Tumas 6-5 F Sr.

31 Irving Fayman 5-11 G Jr.

32 Callum Townsend 6-6 F Jr.

34 Osby Kelly 6-3 G Sr.

35 Jason Brown 6-8 F Fr.

40 Ted Amendola 6-8 F Jr.

42 Corey Pelot 6-6 F Sr.

44 Stefon Barfield 6-6 F So.

Schedule: Nov. 14 — Southeastern, 7:30; Nov. 16 — at Palm Beach Atlantic, 7:30; Nov. 22 — Florida Memorial 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 25 — Shaw at Eckerd, 5:30; Nov. 26 — Puerto Rico-Bayamon at Eckerd; Nov. 30 — Rollins, 7:30; Dec. 3 — at Lynn, 4; Dec. 17 — Malone at Lakeland, 5:15; Dec. 19 — Chowan, 2; Dec. 29 — Brock, 5; Dec. 30 — Winston-Salem State, 2:30; Jan. 4 — Saint Leo, 7:30; Jan. 7 — at Barry, 4; Jan. 11 — at Eckerd, 7:30; Jan. 14 — Nova Southeastern, 4; Jan. 18 — Florida Southern, 7:30; Jan. 21 — Palm Beach Atlantic, 4; Jan. 25 — at Florida Tech, 7:30; Jan. 28 — Lynn, 7:30; Feb. 1 — at Rollins, 7:30; Feb. 4 — Barry, 4; Feb. 8 — at Saint Leo, 7:30; Feb. 11 — at Nova Souheastern, 4; Feb. 15 — Eckerd, 7:30; Feb. 22 — at Florida Southern, 7:30; Feb. 25 — Florida Tech, 4.

Women

Coach: Tom Jessee (195-83, 10th season)

Last season: 21-8 (12-4 Sunshine State Conference)

Notable: Last year's SSC freshman of the year, Lindsey Watson, is back to lead the Spartans after averaging 13.9 points and 4.8 rebounds in her inaugural season. Senior Jaleesa Harmon is the other returning starter back for Tampa, which was picked to finish second in the Sunshine State Conference. The Spartans trailed first-place Rollins by only five votes.

Roster

No. Player Ht. Pos. Yr.

2 Surya Gaffney 6-2 C So.

3 Nina Krstic 5-10 G Fr.

4 Shelby Porter 5-8 G So.

11 Ellie Wilbur 5-8 G Fr.

12 Lindsey Watson 5-7 G So.

14 Greta Bartkute 6-3 F So.

20 Latasha Kennerson 5-6 G Fr.

22 Sarah Wickham 5-7 G Sr.

24 Illyssa Vivo 5-8 G So.

32 Kamari Smith 5-7 G Sr.

33 Britny Taylor 5-10 F Fr.

34 Moriah Hodge 6-3 F Jr.

45 Jaleesa Harmon 6-1 C Sr.

Schedule: Nov. 11 — Wisconsin-Parkside, 4; Nov. 12 — Clayton State, 4:30; Nov. 16 — at Palm Beach Atlantic, 6; Nov. 22 — Puerto Rico-Bayamon, 5:30; Nov. 25 — at North Alabama, 6; Nov. 26 — West Georgia at Florence, Ala., 6; Nov. 30 — Rollins, 5:30; Dec. 3 — at Lynn, 2; Dec. 7 — Ave Maria, 5:30; Dec. 10 — Southeastern, 2; Dec. 30 — Grand Valley State, 5:30; Jan. 4 — Saint Leo, 5:30; Jan. 7 — at Barry, 2; Jan. 11 — at Eckerd, 5:30; Jan. 14 — Nova Southeastern, 2; Jan. 18 — Florida Southern, 5:30; Jan. 21 — Palm Beach Atlantic, 2; Jan. 25 — at Florida Tech, 5:30; Jan. 28 — Lynn, 5:30; Feb. 1 — at Rollins, 5:30; Feb. 4 — Barry, 2; Feb. 8 — at Saint Leo, 5:30; Feb. 11 — Nova Southeastern, 2; Feb. 15 — Eckerd, 5:30; Feb. 22 — at Florida Southern, 5:30; Feb. 25 — Florida Tech, 2.

Laura Keeley, Times staff writer

By Derek J. LaRiviere, Times Correspondent
Saturday, November 5, 2011

BROOKSVILLE — On a brisk, 50-degree morning at Nature Coast, the host Sharks emerged with their first district title in school history with an amazing performance Saturday.

The boys team (16 points) was only one point away from a perfect score at the Class 2A, District 6 championship.

Led by race winner Cody Van Natter, Nature Coast also had the second, third, fourth and sixth-place finishers. Van Natter, who has now won two consecutive races, crossed the line in 16 minutes, 54 seconds, only 20 seconds off of his personal best.

With Nature Coast also hosting the region championship next week, Van Natter was happy with his time and spoke about the advantages of running on his home course in the postseason.

"It was a little cold this morning, but once I warmed up, I felt real comfortable (on the track)," he said. "The whole team knows the course really well, and because of that, we know where to speed up and where to pace ourselves. It helps a lot."

Van Natter, a junior, was able to push teammates James Harkless (16:58), Kevin Ciccone (17:05) and Tyler Moore (17:07) to some of their best times ever.

"Since getting away from the pack running during the middle of the season, I've seen Cody really take off," coach Eric Milholland said. "The good thing about that is that he pushes guys like James Harkless to do more as well."

Hernando's Parker Steinkamp (17:19) was the lone runner to break up the Sharks sweep at the top of the boys leaderboard. The senior helped push Hernando (85 points) to a third-place finish in the team standings, enough to qualify for region.

Tavares (43 points) won the girls' title with Nature Coast (54) and Pasco (59) not far behind, but no one came close to the individual performance of Mount Dora's Ashley Heitling (18:43).

Heitling was almost three minutes better than the first local runner to finish, Pasco's Victoria Baker (21:31).

"The flat course really helped a lot of runners out there," said Baker, who ran her best time of the year. "I really like this course, and it's going to help a lot coming back here next week."

Boys team scores: Nature Coast 16, Tavares 64, Hernando 85, Mount Dora 106, Eustis 115, Pasco 126

Individuals: Van Natter, Nature Coast 16:54; Harkless, Nature Coast 16:58; Ciccone, Nature Coast 17:05; Moore, Nature Coast 17:07; Steinkamp, Hernando 17:19; Murphy, Nature Coast 17:26; Stratton, Nature Coast 17:29; Higginbotham, Tavares 17:40; Sandifer, Nature Coast 17:48; Worfel, Tavares 18:45; Lewis, Hernando 18:48; Hernandez, Pasco 18:48; Moler, Tavares 18:55

Girls team scores: Tavares 43, Nature Coast 54, Pasco 59, Hernando 98, Mount Dora 109

Individuals: Heitling, Mount Dora 18:43; Northrup, Tavares 20:13; Bilz, Tavares 20:40; Baker, Pasco 21:31; Mercadente, Pasco 21:37; Thomson, Nature Coast 22:17; Loose, Hernando 22:21; LaSanta, Nature Coast 22:28; Thomson, Nature Coast 22:30; MacLean, Tavares 22:35; Boswell, Hernando 22:39; Mallo, Tavares 22:45; Newlon, Pasco 23:12

By Matt Baker, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

As the soccer season kicks off — the boys begin this week, and the girls started last week — here's a primer on some of the North Suncoast teams and players to watch this year:

Girls soccer

Players to watch

Hannah Foster, Gulf. The midfielder was a focal point in Gulf's offensive barrage last year that helped the Buccaneers to a runnerup finish at district. As a junior, Foster scored 15 goals and recorded six assists.

Danielle Gottwik, Mitchell: The midfielder was a second-team all-North Suncoast pick as a freshman, and it's easy to see why. She knocked home the first goal in a 2-0 win over Gulf that gave the Mustangs their fifth district championship.

Alyssa Lonsway, Land O'Lakes: Lonsway was a second-team all-North Suncoast player last year and is a team captain for the Gators this winter. The senior defender should be one of the best at her position on a Land O'Lakes team that shut out Anclote in the season opener.

Teams to watch

River Ridge: The Royal Knights advanced to the region semifinals last year. If River Ridge wants to improve on last year, it must do so without player of the year Jenny Karl (44 goals, 18 assists), who signed with the University of Tampa.

Springstead: The Eagles won their first-ever playoff game last year before falling to nationally ranked Newsome. Kirsten Penny, Kim Smith, Zoe Andrew and company will use strong defense to try to improve on that under new coach Scott Wern.

Wiregrass Ranch: An underclassman-heavy Bulls team won their first district title and advanced to the Class 4A region final last season in its first trip to the playoffs. But with AJ Blount out with a knee injury, Berlin Waters, Dayton Wetherby and others must step up.

Boys soccer

Players to watch

Alex Burnham, Academy at the Lakes: The sophomore forward led the Wildcats with 21 goals last season as a freshman.

Brian Hoxie, Mitchell: The goalkeeper has committed to play soccer at Air Force. He's one of 12 seniors on an experienced team that lost only three key contributors from last year.

Zach Mine, Wesley Chapel: The senior forward missed all of last season. Now that he's healthy, Mine is expected to be one of the Wildcats' top scorers and lead a young but talented team.

Teams to watch

Hudson: The Cobras were one of the area's most improved teams last year. They lost to Pasco 6-0 early, but beat the Pirates 2-0 to clinch the district title. Now Owen Derkson, Dan Kumm and the rest of the Cobras will have to try to defend that title.

Land O'Lakes: The Gators have a handful of senior stars, including North Florida commitment Jake Frahm (19 assists last year), Florida Golf Coast commitment Andy Garcia (21 goals, 16 assists) and leading scorer Miguel Laliberte (25 goals, 11 assists).

Zephyrhills: The Bulldogs struggled last year but could be in for a turnaround season. Zephyrhills returns 13 players from last year's squad, including seniors Sean Morehouse and Gunnar Chauncey, a two-time honorable mention all-North Suncoast selection.

By Tyler Jett, Times Correspondent
Saturday, November 5, 2011

GAINESVILLE — Jeff Demps and Mike Gillislee aren't ones for speeches, so they kept their motivational chat before Saturday's game succinct.

The message between the running backs?

"We gotta step up," Gillislee said.

That was it. That was all they needed.

Demps and Gillislee combined for 197 yards on 32 carries, including Demps' career-high 158 on 23 carries, in the 26-21 victory against Vanderbilt.

As far as times to "step up," Saturday was pretty opportune. Chris Rainey, Florida's leading receiver and rusher, was scratched during warmups because of a sprained right ankle.

But even without Rainey, the Gators' running game got back on track. Florida had minus-19 yards in last week's loss to Georgia. But its 197 yards against Vanderbilt were 22 more than it managed in its previous four games combined.

"If you can't run the ball and it gets one dimensional, you can't win — not consistently," Florida coach Will Muschamp said. "You just cannot. The fronts are too good in this league."

Florida's offense was balanced for the first time since September, in part, because it ran most of its plays out of the pistol formation. Quarterback John Brantley, who can't drop back from under center because of his injured right ankle, lined up about 3 yards deep in the backfield, and Demps, generally, was behind him.

Against Georgia, Brantley took snaps only from the shotgun. Without the pistol, the running backs were reduced to mostly sweeps. Putting Brantley in it allowed the backs to build steam before taking the handoff.

"It's just easier to establish a good, downhill run game out of that formation," Brantley said. "We did a great job all week preparing. The O-line did a great job blocking, and Gillislee and Jeff ran very hard."

Gillislee, who did not play against Georgia because of an ankle injury sustained Oct. 15 against Auburn, said the team started practicing out of the pistol Monday. But he said nothing felt different other than Brantley handing him the ball sooner.

Better holes, of course, could simply be a factor of better blocking by the offensive line.

"They had five great days of practice," Gillislee said.

"For us, the running backs, we felt like we should talk to them, keep them up, keep them going. And that's what we did (Saturday)."

Times wires
Saturday, November 5, 2011

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The early part of Louisville's basketball season might have to share some headlines with the Cardinals' surging football team.

Teddy Bridgewater threw for one touchdown and Andrew Johnson returned a blocked field goal for another as Louisville shocked No. 24 West Virginia 38-35 Saturday.

In the visitors' locker room, the entire Louisville team was heard singing John Denver's Country Roads — West Virginia's unofficial theme song.

Not expected to be a factor in the Big East, the Cardinals had their most points this season behind a freshman quarterback in winning their third straight.

"I was not surprised at all to come into this venue and for us to go and play well," said Louisville coach Charlie Strong, a former Florida assistant. "…We didn't come here to lose or to play it tight. We came in here to win."

Geno Smith threw for 410 yards and three scores but couldn't bring the Mountaineers back from 10 points down in the fourth quarter.

Bridgewater, making his sixth start, completed 21 of 27 passes for a season-high 246 yards.

NO. 23 CINCINNATI 26, PITT 24: Zach Collaros threw for 214 yards and ran for two touchdowns as the visiting Bearcats took firm control of the league race at 3-0.

Isaiah Pead rushed for 118 yards and Tony Miliano kicked four field goals for the Bearcats, who won their sixth straight and took a step toward their third conference title in four years.

Pitt led by 10 early in the third quarter but two turnovers deep in its territory let Cincinnati get back in the game.

Tino Sunseri ran for a touchdown and passed for another but Kevin Harper's 50-yard field goal with 14 seconds left was wide right. The Panthers led 23-13 early in the third quarter on Tino Sunseri's 4-yard toss to tight end Hubie Graham.

Yet Cincinnati rallied doing what it has done all season: Forcing opponents into careless turnovers and turning them into points. Down by a touchdown, the Bearcats recovered Sunseri's fumble at the Pitt 27. Cincinnati needed just three plays to tie it at 23, with Collaros plunging over from 3 yards for his second touchdown of the game.

CONNECTICUT 28, SYRACUSE 21: Coach Paul Pasqualoni didn't want this game to be about him. But his players had other ideas.

Quarterback Scott McCummings ran for two touchdowns and Lyle McCombs added 152 yards rushing and a score for host Connecticut, giving "Coach P" a "W" in his first game against a program he coached for 14 seasons. Syracuse fired Pasqualoni in 2004 after going 107-59-1, with four Big East titles, nine bowl appearances and six bowl wins.

"He downplayed the whole thing," said linebacker Sio Moore, who had a key fourth-quarter interception.

Times wires
Saturday, November 5, 2011

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Now that Virginia has become bowl eligible, the Cavaliers don't intend to coast to the finish.

Perry Jones ran for 139 yards and two touchdowns, Michael Rocco threw for two scores, and Virginia beat Maryland 31-13 Saturday to qualify for a bowl bid for the first time in four years.

"I'm extremely humbled because of where the program was, the progress we're trying to make, and the ups and downs you have with your players," second-year coach Mike London said. "It's gratifying to make something significant out of this season. The bowl eligible part of it is good, that's a nice thing, but I'm in the business of developing players, their attitudes and how they respond to adversity."

Playing on the road against their border rivals, the Cavaliers trailed 13-7 in the second quarter. Instead of wilting, they scored the final 24 points.

With four wins in its past five games, Virginia hopes to ride the momentum all the way into the postseason.

"It's nice for our seniors to know we finally clinched it, but that doesn't change our mentality at all," Rocco said. "… Hopefully we'll get pretty far here."

N.C. State 13, N. Carolina 0: Mike Glennon threw a touchdown to help the host Wolfpack earn its fifth straight win against its nearby rival as well as its first shutout win over the Tar Heels in more than five decades.

Last week, Wolfpack coach Tom O'Brien and Tar Heels interim coach Everett Withers traded verbal jabs about graduation rates and the lingering NCAA investigation of UNC's program. The tiff seemed to give North Carolina State's players extra juice.

NOTRE DAME 24, WAKE 17: Tommy Rees threw two touchdowns, and the visiting Irish shut out the Demon Deacons in the second half. Rees was 14-of-23 for 166 yards with scoring passes of 38 yards to Tyler Eifert and 16 yards to Michael Floyd.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

If anyone ever needs an argument against shootouts, tell them to take a look at the Lightning's thrilling 5-4 victory over the Blackhawks on Friday at the St. Pete Times Forum.

The game ended in overtime with Vinny Lecavalier's goal with 53.7 seconds left. There was no need for a shootout. And that is the point.

Really, would anyone in the announced sellout crowd of 19,204 have asked for a refund had that game ended in a tie? It had everything: end-to-end action, great plays, great effort.

If you weren't exhausted just watching, you weren't paying attention.

Now imagine this: The game instead goes to a shootout. We wait while the ice gets a Zamboni treatment. We wait while the coaches decide who is going to shoot. We wait while the players get set up.

And then we go round by round, until, perhaps in the fifth, someone dribbles a puck between a goaltender's pads to end it.

Is that how you would want to remember Friday's game?

I've said this many times before, but it is worth repeating: That kind of ending would have been an insult to what the players went through in the previous 60 minutes of regulation and five minutes of overtime.

A shootout is a skills competition. It's not part of the game. It's a gimmick. That's why it is not used in the playoffs.

In my industry, it would be like breaking a tie for the Pulitzer Prize with a typing contest.

The league loves the shootout because it says fans do. And television wants a thumbs-up, thumbs-down ending.

Here's my ending:

Play five minutes of overtime — or seven, if you want — four on four. Teams get two points for a win but keep a point if they lose. That way teams won't go into a shell to preserve the point already gained.

If no one scores, that's it, game over, and both teams get a point in the standings.

Every game is not going to be as exciting as Friday's. I get that. On the other hand, every game decided by a shootout stinks.

Times staff
Saturday, November 5, 2011

Sprint Cup scouting report

Texas

There are five drivers left with a realistic shot at the title, and by the end of today's race it could well be a two-man fight between the driver who has led the points most of the season (Carl Edwards) and the hottest driver during the Chase for the Championship (Tony Stewart). Edwards has history on his side at Texas Motor Speedway; he's the only three-time winner in Sprint Cup races at the 1.5-mile oval including a sweep in 2008. He was also third this spring and has plenty of help up front, at least at the start; he qualified seventh and Roush Fenway Racing teammates Greg Biffle, David Ragan and Matt Kenseth start 1-2-3. Stewart entered the Chase winless this season but has three victories in the past seven races, and has one career win at Texas. Kenseth is fifth, 37 points out, and his 12 top-10s at Texas are tied for the series high. If he is to get back in title contention he needs to do it today.

Times staff

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Sept. 17

UF 33, Tenn. 23

(3-0, 1-0)

Sept. 10

UF 39,

UAB 0

(2-0, 0-0)

Sept. 3

UF 41,

FAU 3

(1-0, 0-0)

Oct. 8

LSU 41, UF 11

(4-2, 2-2)

Oct. 1

'Bama 38, UF 10

(4-1, 2-1)

Sept. 24

UF 48, UK 10

(4-0, 2-0)

Saturday

UF 26 Vandy 21

(5-4, 3-4)

Oct. 29

Georgia 24, UF 20

(4-4, 2-4)

Oct. 15

Auburn 17, UF 6

(4-3, 2-3)

Nov. 26

vs.

Florida State

TBA

Nov. 19

vs.

Furman

TBA

Nov. 12

at

South Carolina

TBA

By Tom Jones, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

The poll

Which injury sustained during the 24-18 loss to the Bears concerns you most?

Mason Foster (ankle): 15 percent

Brian Price (leg): 9 percent

Jeremy Zuttah (knee): 8 percent

None or other: 3 percent

Total: 758 votes

By the numbers

3-1 Bucs' record against the Saints over the past four meetings

10 Interceptions thrown by the Saints' Drew Brees and Bucs' Josh Freeman this season, second most in the NFL (Chargers' Philip Rivers with 11)

35 Consecutive games with at least one touchdown pass for Brees, one shy of Brett Favre for second longest in NFL history (Colts' Johnny Unitas with 47 from 1956-60)

124.1 Rushing yards per game allowed by the Saints, 24th in the NFL

23 Consecutive games won by the Saints when they have at least 125 rushing yards

83 Consecutive games in which Bucs tight end Kellen Winslow has a catch

What they're saying

The Bucs are dealing with the heightened expectations from last season, but QB Josh Freeman has to keep the offensive profile they previously built by limiting the turnovers. The young and talented defensive line has to put more pressure on the QB. They are 29th in the league in sacks.

Brian Billick Fox Sports

New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees already has been sacked 19 times. That's more than he was sacked in most of his full seasons in New Orleans. It's not hard to figure out what's going on here. The Saints have had a lot of turnover on their offensive line.

Pat Yasinskas ESPN.com

The picks

The Saints will come out angry after suffering a legit beatdown at the hands of the winless Rams last week. Drew Brees doesn't look like he can ever be angry, but just watch. On cue from (coach) Sean Payton, Brees will have another intergalactic day. Saints, 33-17.

Peter King Sports Illustrated

The Saints are coming off the worst loss of the Sean Payton era in terms of who/how they lost. The Rams, like most teams, ran right through them. The Bucs will try to do the same. The last time the Bucs came to New Orleans (last season's finale), they walked out a winner. But the Saints will be refocused here. That loss to the Rams will get them back on track. Drew Brees doesn't have two bad games in a row, but Tampa Bay hangs around. Saints, 27-21.

Pete Prisco CBSSports.com

Bucs at Saints

1 p.m., Superdome, New Orleans

TV/radio: Ch. 13; 620-AM, 103.5-FM

Line/over-under: Saints by 8; 50

Tanard Jackson (hamstring): 19 percent

By Matt Baker, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

What we learned

1. There's no quit in Land O'Lakes: After River Ridge took a 20-0 lead Friday night, Land O'Lakes could have collapsed. After all, the Gators' 14-year playoff streak is over. But Land O'Lakes rallied with 21 unanswered points to steal the victory and prevent the Royal Knights' first win over the school since 1996. Give credit to Ryan Bird (two TD passes), a strong offensive line and a great performance by two-way star Nico Watts.

2. Pasco's defense might be the best in the county: The Pirates shut out a quick Zephyrhills offense that scored more than 40 points the week before. Malik Johns had a pair of impressive pass breakups and returned a fumble for a score. John Baxter, Nick Wilson, Aryn Strickland and others contained Bulldogs QB Jamal Roberts to minus-30 rushing yards. He had been one of the county's leading rushers.

3. Bishop McLaughlin's turnaround is complete: The Hurricanes lost their first five games by an average of 30 points. They could have given up under first-year coach Derrick Alexander. But McLaughlin has rallied since its sluggish start, winning four consecutive games, including Friday's 28-7 win over Merritt Island Christian, to get into the Sunshine State Athletic Conference playoffs for the second year in a row.

Land O'Lakes 21, River Ridge 20

The Gators rallied from a 20-point first-half deficit to squeak by River Ridge on Friday night.

"The kids, they were absolutely amazing," Land O'Lakes coach Brian Wachtel said. "We kept fighting throughout the entire game."

River Ridge (5-4, 3-4) scored three touchdowns early and contained Land O'Lakes' offense. But the Gators (6-3, 5-2) battled back. The offensive line blocked well for quarterback Ryan Bird, who threw two touchdown passes and got a key catch-and-run by fullback Vinny Trott.

The defense buckled down, and Will Fairchild blocked a punt, scooped it up and scored.

"We started swarming to the ball more," Wachtel said.

The Gators took the lead for good on a fourth-down 14-yard pass from Bird to Nico Watts in the fourth quarter. The comeback victory ensured that Land O'Lakes finishes above .500.

"It's Land O'Lakes Gator football tradition," Wachtel said. "No matter what the situation is you're in, you keep fighting and find a way to get it done. That's exactly what we did (Friday) night."

Compiled by Times staff writer Matt Baker and Times correspondent Derek J. LaRiviere.

Game balls

RBs Eli Galvan and Jamel Nunez, Wiregrass Ranch: Each Bull rushed for a touchdown in the third quarter to tie the game in Wiregrass' 19-13 overtime loss to Freedom.

LB Richard Hart, Nature Coast: The senior caught a touchdown pass and added a fourth-quarter interception. He broke up a pass at the 1 early in the second half in a 34-3 win over Springstead.

RBs Tyrail Hawkins and Marqui Redding, Hernando: Hawkins ran for 148 yards and two touchdowns, and Redding rushed for 165 and two scores, accounting for the majority of Hernando's 411 yards of total offense (all rushing) in a 41-14 win over Mitchell. Hawkins now has 1,208 yards and 15 touchdowns rushing this season with Redding chipping in 778 and 11 scores.

DB Malik Johns, Pasco: His 53-yard fumble return for a touchdown was one of the biggest highlights of a great team defensive performance against Zephyrhills. But don't overlook his three pass breakups, including two in a row in the fourth quarter.

FB Hayden Moyer, Hudson: The Cobras' top player all season had a good showing against Anclote. He averaged almost 5 yards per carry, rushed for 82 yards and scored a touchdown in a 41-10 loss.

QB R.J. Perciavalle, Bishop McLaughlin: Threw three of his four touchdowns in the second half as the Hurricanes scored 22 unanswered points in a 28-7 win over Merritt Island Christian that sealed a trip to the playoffs.

RB Alonzo Pettiford, Anclote: The senior had six carries for 164 yards and three touchdowns against Hudson, and helped push his team to a fourth straight victory.

RB Kyrie Rodriguez, Fivay: The senior rushed for 127 yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries in a 48-8 victory over Ridgewood that clinched the Falcons' first trip to the playoffs.

QB Ty Tanner, Wesley Chapel: He finished 14-for-21 passing for 224 yards. He was a part of all five Wildcats touchdowns (three passing, two throwing) in a 35-7 win over Gulf.

DB/WR Nico Watts, Land O'Lakes: The two-way senior star had a key interception and scored the winning touchdown on a fourth-down catch in the fourth quarter of the Gators' 21-20 win over River Ridge.

Playoff picture

District 6A-6: Hernando is the district champion and will host the playoff opener against Gainesville, the District 6A-5 runnerup. Sunlake is the 6A-6 runnerup and will face Ocala Vanguard, which clinched the District 6A-5 title.

District 5A-6: Pasco finished the season unbeaten to claim the district title. The Pirates are off this week but will host Santa Fe, the District 5A-5 runnerup, in the first round. Fivay also advances to the playoffs after finishing second in the district. It opens the postseason at perennial power North Marion, the District 5A-5 champion.

Audibles

"The old Bulldogs would have been 70 to nothing on that board."

Reggie Roberts, Zephyrhills coach, after his team's 45-0 loss to Pasco. The defeat knocked the Bulldogs out of the playoff hunt, but they've still won more games this season (five) than the last two years combined (four)

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

GAINESVILLE — Florida K Caleb Sturgis missed last week's game against Georgia with a leg injury he suffered the previous week against Auburn. Then his first attempt on Saturday afternoon sailed wide right.

He vowed to himself that would be the final miss of the day. Sturgis later connected on two field goals to help the Gators to a 26-21 victory over Vanderbilt.

His 55-yarder late in the first half was the second longest of his career and fourth career 50-yarder, which ties the school record held by Berj Yepremian.

Sturgis and Georgia's Blair Walsh are the only kickers in the SEC with two field goals of 50 yards or longer this season.

"I thought I had to make it because I missed the first one and I felt I let the team down," Sturgis said. "So I had to make the second one.

"When I went out there, I told myself I'm not going to miss this short."

INJURY UPDATE: Injuries continue to plague the Gators. Senior RB Chris Rainey missed his first game of the season and former Tampa Catholic OL Chaz Green missed his second straight game, both with ankle injuries.

Senior DE Lerentee McCray (shoulder) and LB Jelani Jenkins, also did not play. Jenkins took a hit to the head against Georgia last week. QB John Brantley missed the latter part of the third quarter and all of the fourth with an undisclosed injury to his elbow.

PENALTIES: They have been the bane of Florida's existence this season as it entered Saturday leading Division I-A in penalties.

Early on, it looked as if the Gators were headed for another bad day.

They committed a false start on the second play of the game but ultimately committed just three for 17 yards.

Vanderbilt committed 12 for 106, including offside when Florida was going for it on fourth and 1 at the Florida 15 with 4:25 remaining in the game.

"This is one game," coach Will Muschamp said.

"I'm not, after one game, ready to wave the flag that we're disciplined now."

In case you're wondering, Muschamp insisted he wasn't trying to draw Vandy offside on the play.

"We were trying to win the game," he said.

Changes on the line: For several weeks, Muschamp has lamented that lack of depth hinders his ability to make players more accountable for mistakes. Saturday, Muschamp changed that.

After sophomore C Jonotthan Harrison's snap sailed over Brantley's head during a third-quarter drive, he was replaced by Sam Robey. Muschamp later said there had been several errant snaps.

In addition, senior LG Dan Wenger was replaced in the third quarter by Kyle Koehne.

"We just need to be more consistent with our snaps, and we've had issues throughout the year," Muschamp said.

"So I thought we needed to make the change."

After the game, Harrison posted a message on his Twitter account: "I apologize. #Gator Nation."

By Mike Manning, Times Correspondent
Saturday, November 5, 2011

tom jones' two cents

What's hot: Cooler weather has triggered local game fish into feeding heavy before the winter ahead. There is plenty of action on the shallows for snook, redfish, cobia and trout. There also is plenty of action for the offshore anglers with Spanish mackerel, kingfish and grouper.

Inshore flats: Redfish have been schooling up in large schools around oyster bars on the incoming tides from Anclote River to the Cottee River. There has been plenty of action on the small oyster bars along Sand Bay and around Green Key. Most of the action has been on whitebait and small pinfish. Trout have been in large schools around the mouths of creeks, rivers and deep-water canals. There are nice trout starting to show up around the outer islands such as Anclote Key, Three Rooker Bar and the North Sand Bar.

Offshore: The kingfish and Spanish mackerel are showing up in large numbers on the artificial reefs and any hard-bottom areas. Both Pasco One and Two are producing nice kingfish up to 25-30 pounds. There are several ways to catch them, from trolling live and artificial baits to anchoring and chumming with live bait.

Don't have a boat? I'm always getting calls asking about places to fish without a boat. This is a great time of year to fish at the local power plants. Also try fishing the bridges that span the local rivers. There are plenty of snook around the bridges this time of year.

Mike Manning runs Action Fishing Adventures out of Tarpon Springs. Call him toll-free at 1-800-644-5940.

1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch 1 inch of body type 1 inch.

Times wires
Saturday, November 5, 2011

The Giants will be without their leading rusher, leading receiver and starting center today.

Running back Ahmad Bradshaw (broken right foot), receiver Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) and center David Baas (right knee) did not travel to New England.

But former USF defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul, who missed Friday's practice with concussion symptoms, traveled and is expected to play.

Browns: Running back Peyton Hillis was declared out for today's game. He has missed two games with a sore left hamstring.

Raiders: Sebastian Jani­kowski, who missed a game with a sore hamstring, will kick today, NFL.com reported.

Redskins: Corner Phillip Buchanon went on injured reserve. The former Buc has been troubled by neck and knee problems and played in only two games after being suspended for the first four for violating the policy on performance-enhancing substances.

Steelers: Punter Dan Sepulveda went on injured reserve with a right knee injury.

Arena League: The Storm unveiled new uniforms, a new logo and new season ticket plans at its FanFest. For details, go to tampabaystorm.com.

By Rodney Page, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

Seminole coach Rick Masi is in his 20th season with the Warhawks, and nothing is going to keep him away from the sideline this season. Not back surgery. Not a torn labrum in his hip. Nothing. • "I'm coaching, buddy,'' Masi said. "I'll have a walker, but I'll be coaching.'' • Yep, Masi, 59, will roam the sideline with a walker. But he'd rather do that than miss out on what he believes could be a promising season.

Seminole was a district run-nerup to East Lake last year. But the always-strong Eagles are in a different district now. And Seminole is deep and talented.

"I think we're going to be solid," Masi said. "I hate to say anything because you never know about injuries or grades. But it looks good right now.

"This is the most depth I've ever had. I can start one team, then pull a player and put another one on and not miss much. I haven't had that in a long time. A long, long time."

Players to watch for Seminole include center midfielder Tarik Salkicic, sweeper Tyler Zulewski, forward Garrett Bocon and forward Yann Cerf, who was injured last season. But there are plenty of other players who will likely emerge as the season wears on.

Other teams that could pose a threat in Seminole's Class 4A, District 10 include Tarpon Springs and Northeast, although the Vikings did lose seven starters from last year.

While Seminole bears watching, here are some other things to watch when the season kicks off Monday.

Class 5A, District 8 is loaded

Clearly a computer put together these districts, because any person with a heart would not throw so many good teams into one group. Countryside, East Lake and Palm Harbor University are all state contenders. Sarasota Riverview isn't shabby, and Pinellas Park and St. Petersburg are no pushovers.

"I think it's one of the toughest districts in Florida," Countryside coach David Sica said. "You could say that every team has a chance. You throw East Lake, Palm Harbor and Countryside in the same district, then Sarasota Riverview and St. Pete, if you can get out of this district you can go far."

The strong club programs in the Clearwater/East Lake area certainly help. Expect some spirited district games this winter by players who compete against each other in club tournaments.

Killer district, Part 2

Then there is Class 2A, District 9. Clearwater Central Catholic was 19-7 last season and is a perennial district contender. St. Petersburg Catholic is a little undersized but could surprise. Then there are Hillsborough powerhouses Tampa Catholic and Berkeley Prep.

Again, the teams that get out of this district will have earned it.

Team to keep an eye on

Osceola has five senior returners (Alexi Cortez, David Watson, Adam Stephney, Tony Sanopoli and Charlie Canel). The Warriors likely have enough talent to get out of a district that includes Pinellas schools Boca Ciega, Dunedin, Gibbs and Lakewood.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

Stat pack

1 p.m., Superdome, New Orleans | TV/radio: Ch. 13; 620-AM, 103.5-FM | Line, O/U: Saints by 8; 50

avg. Rushing yards

avg. passing yards

avg. total yards

avg. Rushing yards allowed

avg. passing yards allowed

avg. total yards allowed

Bucs

Saints

100.1 (23rd)

117.4 (11th)

Probable starters

BUCS OFFENSE

WR: Mike Williams 19

LT: Donald Penn 70

LG: Ted Larsen 62

C: Jeff Faine 52

RG: Davin Joseph 75

RT: Jeremy Trueblood 65

TE: Kellen Winslow 82

WR: Arrelious Benn 17

QB: Josh Freeman 5

RB: LeGarrette Blount 27

FB: Erik Lorig 44

BUCS DEFENSE

DE: Michael Bennett 71

DT: Gerald McCoy 93

DT: Brian Price 92

RDE: Adrian Clayborn 94

SLB: Quincy Black 58

MLB: Mason Foster 59

WLB: Geno Hayes 54

LCB: Aqib Talib 25

RCB: Ronde Barber 20

SS: Sean Jones 26

FS: Tanard Jackson 36

Special Teams

P: Michael Koenen 9

PK: Connor Barth 10

KO: Michael Koenen 9

PR/KR: Preston Parker 87

Saints offense

WR: Devery Henderson 19

LT: Jermon Bushrod 74

LG: Carl Nicks 77

C: Matt Tennant 65

RG: Jahri Evans 73

RT: Charles Brown 71

TE: Jimmy Graham 80

WR: Lance Moore 16

QB: Drew Brees 9

RB: Pierre Thomas 23

FB: Korey Hall 35

Saints defense

LDE: Turk McBride 90

DT: Aubrayo Franklin 99

DT: Sedrick Ellis 98

RDE: Jeff Charleston 97

SLB: Scott Shanle 58

MLB: Jonathan Vilma 51

WLB: Will Herring 53

LCB: Jabari Greer 33

RCB: Tracy Porter 22

SS: Roman Harper 41

FS: Malcolm Jenkins 27

Special teams

P: Thomas Morstead 6

PK/KO: John Kasay 2

WR: Devery Henderson 19

PR: Darren Sproles 43

The Bucs have proved they can win at the Superdome, having done so the past two seasons. But the Saints, behind prolific passer Drew Brees, likely will be on top of their game, having suffered a shocking loss to the previously winless Rams last week. The last time the Bucs, who beat the Saints 26-20 in Tampa on Oct. 16, swept the season series was 2007. They have split in the three seasons since.

Saints' best offensive player

Sometimes, it seems like the only thing that can slow QB Drew Brees, right, is his inconsistent offensive line. The latter has done him in a couple of times in the past three weeks. Three weeks ago, the Bucs consistently collapsed the pocket around him. Last week, the Rams sacked him six times.

Saints' best defensive player

It has been two years since end Will Smith had his 13-sack season. But Smith, who had 5½ last season, is off to a fast start, notching 4½ in six games. He already has two multiple-sack games, including his two last week against St. Louis.

Prediction Saints 28, Bucs 24

What the Saints do best

Make big plays. New Orleans' passing game is built on QB Drew Brees' quick tempo that opens up plays by catching defenses off guard. The Saints have 30 completions of 20 yards or longer and six of 40 yards or longer.

You can beat the Saints if …

Consistently convert first downs. The Bucs have beaten the Saints three times since 2009. Two of those games featured Tampa Bay surpassing 400 total yards. A running game is critical, too, because it runs the clock and keeps QB Drew Brees on the sideline.

The Bucs must avoid …

Allowing QB Drew Brees to sit comfortably in the pocket. When they put pressure on him last month, the Bucs intercepted him three times. Brees is going to throw the ball early and often, so the pass rush must show up.

123.4 (23rd)

124.1 (24th)

267.7 (26th)

221.9 (11th)

240.3 (12th)

326.8 (1st)

391.1 (29th)

346.0 (15th)

340.4 (15th)

444.2 (2nd)

Injury report

BUCS — Out: DT Frank Okam (calf), G Jeremy Zuttah (knee). Probable: RB LeGarrette Blount (knee), C Jeff Faine (biceps), LB Mason Foster (ankle), QB Josh Freeman (thumb), S Tanard Jackson (hamstring), DT Gerald McCoy (ankle), DT Brian Price (illness), WR Sammie Stroughter (ankle)

FALCONS — Out: RB Mark Ingram (heel). Questionable: LB Jonathan Vilma (knee). Probable: LB Jonathan Casillas (knee), DT Sedrick Ellis (ankle), DE Junior Galette (knee), DT Shaun Rogers (illness), T Zach Strief (knee), TE David Thomas (concussion)

Times wires
Saturday, November 5, 2011

FORT WORTH, Texas — Everything is bigger in Texas.

Even, apparently, NASCAR's punishments.

For many who wondered whether NASCAR's "boys, have at it" edict had a line which couldn't be crossed, Kyle Busch helped the sanctioning body define it.

Busch — who was parked during Friday night's truck race after intentionally wrecking Ron Hornaday under caution — was forced to sit out Saturday's Nationwide race and also will miss today's Sprint Cup race at Texas Motor Speedway.

Busch had no appeal available.

In announcing Busch's suspension for the rest of the weekend, NASCAR president Mike Helton said there was a limit to the on-track retaliation that would be tolerated.

"We saw it last night," he said Saturday.

Busch's Joe Gibbs Racing teammate, Denny Hamlin, took Busch's place in Saturday's race and finished second.

Michael McDowell, who has driven five races for Joe Gibbs this season in the Nationwide series, will drive the No. 18 Toyota during today's AAA 500.

Helton wouldn't say what, if any, additional penalties Busch faces. If there are any, they figure to be announced this week.

Busch is the first driver to be parked for an on-track incident since Robby Gordon in 2007. Kevin Harvick was parked in a 2002 Cup race at Martinsville, Va., after getting parked the day before in a Truck race.

Helton said the decision to park Busch, whose slim hopes for a Sprint Cup title end with this suspension, was not easy.

"It's not something we enjoy doing," Helton said.

Others feel little to no sympathy for "The Wild Child" for wrecking Hornaday, who was competing for a trucks title but saw his hopes end against the outside wall just 14 laps into the race. How angry were his rivals Friday?

• Hornaday: "If NASCAR doesn't do it, I'm going to buy Tommy Baldwin's (Cup car) and that guy will never finish another race. That's a promise. … He lives too close to me. So we'll see what NASCAR does. If they don't handle it right, I'll be at his house Monday morning."

• Harvick, who owns Hornaday's truck: "I think Kyle definitely showed his immaturity, and why he's just one of those guys that just can't stand to lose, and just a poor loser."

Busch, who had no comment Saturday, said Friday, "I lost my cool, no doubt about it. I've been wrecked four weeks in a row, and I've had enough of it, and I retaliated. So it's certainly my fault for doing that. If everybody wants to say, 'Hornaday is racing for a championship, roll over,' that's not my fashion. That's not anybody else's fashion out here."

Though Busch was driving Friday for his own team, JGR owner Joe Gibbs said Saturday he was ultimately responsible and agreed with NASCAR's decision.

"I take full responsibility for it," Gibbs said. "…This is a tough situation for us. We've got a lot of work to do and there and a lot of people to see."

Bayne takes victory

Trevor Bayne earned his first career Nationwide victory, passing dominating teammate Carl Edwards after a tremendous restart with seven laps left at Texas.

Bayne won the Daytona 500 this year but had never won in 76 starts in the second-tier series, where he is a regular for Roush Fenway Racing. Edwards, the Cup points leader, led 157 of 200 laps at the 1.5-mile track.

"It's been a long time coming," said Bayne, 21. "That ending there was cool to get to go up against Carl Edwards and Denny Hamlin."

Points leader Ricky Stenhouse finished sixth and has is 17 points ahead of Elliott Sadler with two races to go. Sadler ran ninth. Tampa's Aric Almirola was 19th.

By Bob Putnam and Rodney Page, Times Staff Writers
Saturday, November 5, 2011

The reclassification of districts provided a lot of changes this season, particularly the disparity among teams in each one. Some districts had as few as four teams. Others had as many as eight. There were logjams at the top, especially in Class 2A-5, where tiebreakers seemed inevitable. But the district shakeouts are now complete, and there is no chaos. Everything worked out with no tiebreakers necessary. There are some established contenders who made the playoffs, such as Countryside and Largo. And there are some newcomers, such as Canterbury and Palm Harbor University, which are in the postseason for the first time. Here is the recap from Week 10:

Notables

RB Justin Goodloe, Clearwater Central Catholic: Not only did Goodloe score the Marauders' first touchdown with a 75-yard run, but he got another from 6 yards out later in the first quarter of a 41-6 win.

RB/DB David Jones, St. Petersburg: Had an 81-yard touchdown run and caught two passes for 87 yards in a 41-14 loss to Countryside.

RB Tyler Lane, East Lake: Had 22 carries for 103 yards and two big touchdowns in a one-point win over rival Palm Harbor University.

ATH Napoleon Maxwell, Admiral Farragut: Not only did he score touchdowns of 42 and 33 yards in a 31-14 win over Cambridge, he also scored on a 35-yard interception return.

RB Brent O'Neal, Canterbury: O'Neal gained 206 yards and scored three touchdowns in a 54-0 win over Northside Christian. He also had a receiving touchdown and returned an interception for a TD.

QB Louis Pappas, Tarpon Springs: Granted, the Spongers got creamed 38-10 by Largo, but Pappas accounted for 202 of his team's 207 yards.

RB Diomi Roberts, Countryside: He seems to be on here every week, but Roberts gained 128 yards on 19 carries and scored a touchdown. He also blocked a punt in the third quarter.

RB Marquis Samuel, Pinellas Park: Had 177 rushing yards and two touchdowns as the Patriots hung on for a 40-33 win over Seminole.

Offensive player of the week

RB Tyler Lane, East Lake: Quarterback Pete DiNovo and receiver Artavis Scott grab more of the headlines, but it was Lane who gained the tough yards for the Eagles in their biggest game of the season. Lane gained 103 yards on 22 carries and scored two of East Lake's three touchdowns in the 21-20 victory.

Defensive player of the week

DL Auggie Sanchez, Northeast: The speed rusher is the statistical leader nearly every week. But he really came through in the 14-7 win over Clearwater with two sacks and 10 tackles, including three for losses. Sanchez was just as valuable on offense, rushing for 198 yards, throwing for 24 and scoring both touchdowns.

Playoff bound

Here are the postseason matchups for county teams (all games 7:30, Nov. 18).

Class 8A

• Palm Harbor University at Centennial

• Vero Beach at East Lake

Class 7A

• Pinellas Park at Bradenton Manatee

• Venice at Countryside

Class 6A

• Hillsborough at Largo

Class 3A

• CC Catholic at Fort Meade

Class 2A

• Admiral Farragut at Fort Myers Evangelical

• Naples St. John Neumann at Canterbury

Super seven

1. Countryside (10-0): Victory against St. Petersburg secures third straight district title and second straight undefeated regular season.

2. Largo (7-2): The Packers were unable to run against Tarpon Springs but were able to do just about anything else.

3. Pinellas Park (7-2): After sweating it out in the fourth quarter, Patriots clinch run-nerup spot in Class 7A-9 with win against Seminole.

4. CC Catholic (7-2): Ground game gets going again as Marauders pound St. Petersburg Catholic in big rivalry game.

5. Lakewood (6-3): Downward spiral continues as Spartans drop third district game against Spoto.

6. East Lake (6-3): Big first half propels Eagles to victory over Palm Harbor University and clinches Class 8A-7 title.

7. Palm Harbor U. (5-4): Furious rally falls short as Hurricanes lose to Eagles but are still in playoffs for the first time.

Times wires
Saturday, November 5, 2011

NEW YORK — Watching the New York City Marathon on TV at home in Ethiopia last year, Werknesh Kidane felt a country's joy and sorrow.

Her husband, Gebre Gebremariam, had just won in his debut at the distance, anointing him as the next great Ethiopian star. But the greatest of all had been halted by injury, and afterward Haile Gebrselassie announced his short-lived retirement.

"In Ethiopia, New York Marathon is very, very big," Kidane, an elite distance runner herself, said Friday through a translator. "… People were regretting that Haile lost and people were happy because Gebre won."

Gebremariam will have to share the spotlight again when he defends his title today. Kidane will run in the women's field. She also was supposed to run in New York last year but pulled out because of a calf injury.

Her husband won in 2 hours, 8 minutes, 14 seconds, the sixth-best time in NYC Marathon history, 31 seconds off the course record. That seems like a plodding pace now, just a year later.

In April, Kenya's Emmanuel Mutai, the runnerup behind Gebremariam in New York, shattered the course record at the London Marathon with a 2:04:40. A day later, countryman Geoffrey Mutai (no relation) ran the fastest 26.2 miles in history (2:03:02) in Boston. It didn't count as a world record because the course is considered too straight and too downhill. Gebremariam was third in a personal-best 2:04:53.

Then in September, another Kenyan, Patrick Makau, officially broke Gebrselassie's world record in Berlin with a 2:03:38.

Both Mutais will be challenging Gebremariam in New York. And Geoffrey Mutai believes this course is easier than Boston.

With a forecast of little wind and highs around 56 degrees for today, the 10-year-old course record of 2:07:43 could fall.

"If the weather is favorable for us, I think the results of that day will be different from the last few years," Emmanuel Mutai said.

On the women's side, Edna Kiplagat of Kenya won't defend her title after hurting her knee while winning the title at the world championships. But London Marathon champ Mary Keitany and Boston winner Caroline Kilel will run.

Most of the top Americans are skipping New York because the U.S. Olympic trials are Jan. 14 in Houston.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, November 5, 2011

Bengals (5-2) at Titans (4-3)

4 p.m.

Titans by 3, 41½

This is an interesting matchup and an extremely difficult pick. Let's establish a few facts: • The Titans will not run successfully unless Chris Johnson has had an epiphany. • The Tennessee secondary is a bit susceptible to big games, meaning Cincy QB Andy Dalton, above, has a shot at a big game. • Tennessee QB Matt Hasselbeck is capable of winning this game by himself. In the end, they're closely matched, but Cincy is more well-rounded.

Bengals 23, Titans 20

Rams (1-6) at Cardinals (1-6)

4:15 p.m.

Cardinals by 3, 41

We're still not sure what got into the Rams defense in that upset of the Saints last week. The six sacks, the interceptions of Drew Brees, holding them to 21 points — it doesn't add up. Meanwhile, the Cardinals went east and nearly pulled off an upset of the Ravens. The Arizona offense has a shot to make some plays here, so look for WR Larry Fitzgerald to loom large. CB Patrick Peterson, above, has a pair of 80-yard-plus punt returns, too — something to watch.

Cardinals 27, Rams 20

Giants (5-2) at Patriots (5-2)

4:15 p.m., Ch. 13

Patriots by 9, 51

A rematch of a Super Bowl we'll never forget. A little less is on the line today, but it's an intriguing game nonetheless. The Patriots have to get more stops on defense. Pittsburgh dominated in time of possession in its win over New England last week, and that likely will be an issue against QB Eli Manning and the Giants today. The New York pass rush is going to create problems for Patriots QB Tom Brady, above, but the Giants don't have what the Steelers do in their secondary.

Patriots 33, Giants 27

Packers (7-0) at Chargers (4-3)

4:15 p.m.

Packers by 5½, 51

Chargers QB Philip Rivers, above, is still trying to shake the fact he quite literally dropped the ball against the Chiefs last week, his fumble eventually leading to a Kansas City win in overtime. It's just the latest of his undeniable issues, namely his NFL-high 11 interceptions. But what if he plays a sharp game and the Chargers run the ball like we know they can with Ryan Mathews? That's right: The Packers could lose. It's a provocative statement, but it's also true.

Chargers 29, Packers 27

Ravens (5-2) at Steelers (6-2)

8:20 p.m., Ch. 8

Steelers by 3, 42

The Ravens are going through something of an identity crisis. One week, their offense can't reach double figures against Jacksonville. The next, their vaunted defense gives up 27 points to Arizona. Combine those issues with the Steelers wanting revenge for that 28-point beatdown in Week 1. The Steelers have stopped pretending they run a balanced offense and are throwing it with abandon. QB Ben Roethlisberger, above, is on pace for 4,600 yards.

Steelers 24, Ravens 20

Bears (4-3) at Eagles (3-4)

8:30 Monday, ESPN

Eagles by 7½, 47½

Last time out, the Bears tried serving up a victory to the Bucs, who played so poorly they didn't deserve to win. With the kind of performance the Eagles displayed against the Cowboys last week, you have to believe they're good enough to beat the Bears solidly — if they're focused. Given their slow start, the Eagles must be. QB Michael Vick, above, could have a big day against a porous secondary while Jay Cutler will be too busy running from the Philly pass rush.

Eagles 28, Bears 21

Jets (4-3) at Bills (5-2)

1 p.m.

Bills by 21/2, 45

The AFC East standings will be impacted considerably by the outcome of today's game. The Bills are tied with the Patriots for the division lead with the Jets one game back. So what's the difference in this contest? We believe it will be the Bills' ground game behind Fred Jackson, above, which has been far more consistent than the Jets' running attack. New York will make things tough on QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, but its run defense is spotty at best.

Bills 23, Jets 20

Seahawks (2-5) at Cowboys (3-4)

1 p.m.

Cowboys by 11, 45

The story of this Cowboys season is starting to become clear. Maybe they're just not that special. They remain good enough to beat inferior opponents. But after that showing at Philadelphia last week coupled with close losses to the Patriots and Lions (wasting double-digit leads in both), the Cowboys look like they'll hover around .500 and miss the playoffs. But this is the kind of game in which QB Tony Romo, above, can have a huge day to keep the Cowboys' hopes alive.

Cowboys 31, Seahawks 17

Browns (3-4) at Texans (5-3)

1 p.m.

Texans by 10½, 41

The Browns aren't what you might consider an offensive machine — unless you consider an average of 11 points in their past three games offensive fireworks. Meanwhile, Houston (as usual) is humming along offensively with QB Matt Schaub, above, having a strong season. The guy who has made things come together, however, is RB Arian Foster. He wants a contract extension. Given how he has lightened the load on Schaub, he seems to be deserving of it.

Texans 26, Browns 14

Falcons (4-3) at Colts (0-8)

1 p.m.

Falcons by 6½, 45

Colts QB Peyton Manning broke his silence last week and offered a bleak assessment of his recovery from three neck surgeries. He has made little progress and appears to be experiencing issues such as "regeneration of the nerve." Meanwhile, back at the ranch, his teammates who are actually playing haven't managed to get a single win. And something suggests it won't come today. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan, above, could have a big day against a leaky Colts defense.

Falcons 28, Colts 17

Dolphins (0-7) at Chiefs (4-3)

1 p.m.

Chiefs by 4, 401/2

This not an attempt at humor: The Dolphins have been a tough out. They play hard, test you, then fall apart (see the Giants loss last week). They can't finish — whether for lack of talent, composure or coaching. It has done in the Dolphins in several games, and it's probably going to get coach Tony Sparano fired. The Chiefs have won four straight under coach Todd Haley, above. They finished the job Monday night against the Chargers and are tied for the AFC West lead.

Chiefs 24, Dolphins 17

Broncos (2-5) at Raiders (4-3)

4 p.m., Ch. 10

Raiders by 7, 42½

It's starting to look like Denver QB Tim Tebow is what he is — not the answer. The Raiders' Carson Palmer, above, is the quarterback to watch in this game. He gets his first start after coming off the bench in his first appearance two weeks ago. Having been sitting at home — threatening to retire — until Jason Campbell's injury last month, Palmer has had adequate time to get it together and probably has learned enough of the Raiders' playbook to beat the Broncos.

Raiders 24, Broncos 17

49ers (6-1) at Redskins (3-4)

1 p.m.

49ers by 4, 37½

The 49ers probably won't have their way against the Redskins defense. It has allowed 19.9 points per game — seventh fewest in the NFL. The imbalance comes with the 49ers defense against the Redskins offense. The 49ers have a fierce pass rush featuring rookie DE Aldon Smith, above, and his 6½ sacks. And the 49ers protect the ball better than most. QB Alex Smith has just two picks, a big reason the 49ers have a plus-10 turnover margin.

49ers 26, Redskins 13