By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

TAMPA — With the Bucs out of contention for a playoff spot, some attention is likely to turn to the future of the team's young players.

Today, after a solid debut in his first career start, the Bucs have to feel better about the lies ahead for DE Da'Quan Bowers.

The rookie second-round pick from Clemson was credited with one tackle and one quarterback hit, and coaches were cautiously optimistic about his performance in his first full game.

"Bowers played well for his first time out there," coach Raheem Morris said. "His first time out the box. (There were) growing pains of course. He obviously had some bad plays but he had some really good plays. … We can get him to play better. We just keep seeing him grow throughout the season."

Clearly, Bowers has work to do, but his growth could be accelerated by opportunities like he had on Sunday.

Having a full game of tape to evaluate, he said, will help him with self-evaluation.

"It's definitely something to build on," he said. "I can't wait to get in there and critique myself to see what I need to work on."

Bowers had played in a limited capacity until Sunday, when he replaced injured left end Michael Bennett (groin) in the starting lineup. Bennett's solid play throughout the season resulted in only sporadic reps for Bowers, but coaches have seen him emerge in recent weeks and think he's ready for a bigger workload.

Meanwhile, Bennett, who didn't make the trip to Nashville, said Monday he feels better after taking a week off and might return to action against Carolina on Sunday.

NO QUESTION: The Bucs' decision to have QB Josh Freeman spike the ball to stop the clock converting a first down with 1:14 left was questioned by some, but Morris said his staff never wavered.

"We spike the ball on every first down you get (in a two-minute drill)," Morris said. "You pick up a first down, you have to go down and spike it. You have no timeouts left. You have to be ready to deal, so every first down at that point needs to be a spike."

Had the Bucs had an extra down at the end of the game —spiking the ball made it second down — perhaps the outcome would have been different. But players pointed out that hurriedly running an unorganized play with the clock running could have resulted in a turnover or a loss of yardage.

CAM CAN: When DE Tim Crowder looks at Panthers rookie QB Cam Newton, he sees some similarities to his former University of Texas teammate, QB Vince Young. And Crowder feels there's a bright future ahead for Newton and the Panthers.

"He's very unique," Crowder said of Newton. "I practiced against a guy everyday in college (Young) that has those talents. He's the same guy. He can throw, he can run, he's got a lot of confidence over there. And they're just one of those teams on cusp, too. They're probably one of those teams next year that'll be fighting for the division lead."

WAITING ON WORD: The Bucs didn't update the condition of DT Brian Price, who left Sunday's game with a sprained ankle and did not return. Price, who was at One Buc Place on Monday wearing a walking boot, did not speak with reporters but was undergoing further tests.

Times staff writer Joe Smith contributed to this report.

By Stephen F. Holder, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

TAMPA — With the Bucs out of contention for a playoff spot, some attention is likely to turn to the future of the team's young players.

Today, after a solid debut in his first career start, the Bucs have to feel better about what lies ahead for DE Da'Quan Bowers.

The rookie second-round pick from Clemson was credited with one tackle and one quarterback hit, and coaches were cautiously optimistic about his first full game.

"Bowers played well for his first time out there," coach Raheem Morris said. "His first time out the box. (There were) growing pains of course. He obviously had some bad plays but he had some really good plays. … We can get him to play better. We just keep seeing him grow throughout the season."

Clearly, Bowers has work to do, but his growth could be accelerated by opportunities like he had Sunday.

Having a full game on tape, he said, will help his self-evaluation.

"It's definitely something to build on," he said. "I can't wait to get in there and critique myself to see what I need to work on."

Bowers had played in a limited capacity until Sunday, when he replaced injured left end Michael Bennett (groin) as a starter. Bennett's solid play throughout the season resulted in only sporadic reps for Bowers, but coaches have seen him emerge in recent weeks and think he's ready for a bigger workload.

Meanwhile, Bennett, who didn't make the trip to Nashville, said Monday he feels better after a week off and might return Sunday against Carolina.

NO QUESTION: The Bucs' decision to have QB Josh Freeman spike the ball to stop the clock after converting a first down with 1:14 left was questioned by some, but Morris said his staff never wavered.

"We spike the ball on every first down you get (in a two-minute drill)," Morris said. "You pick up a first down, you have to go down and spike it. You have no timeouts left. You have to be ready to deal."

Had the Bucs had an extra down at the end of the game — spiking the ball made it second down — perhaps the outcome would have been different. But players pointed out that hurriedly running an unorganized play with the clock running could have resulted in a turnover or a loss of yardage.

CAM CAN: When DE Tim Crowder looks at Panthers rookie QB Cam Newton, he sees some similarities to his former University of Texas teammate, QB Vince Young. And Crowder said he feels Newton and the Panthers have a bright future.

"He's very unique," Crowder said of Newton. "I practiced against a guy everyday in college (Young) that has those talents. He's the same guy. He can throw, he can run, he's got a lot of confidence over there. And they're just one of those teams on cusp, too. They're probably one of those teams next year that'll be fighting for the division lead."

WAITING ON WORD: The Bucs didn't update the condition of DT Brian Price, who left Sunday's game with a sprained ankle. Price, who was at One Buc Place on Monday wearing a walking boot, did not speak with reporters but had further tests.

Times staff writer Joe Smith contributed to this report.

Dave Walker, Times Correspondent
Monday, November 28, 2011

Windy and chilly conditions are proof that fall is here. Those of us who have avoided the mall probably got some good time on the water. Though a bit breezy lately, fishing has been good.

What's hot: Catch and release trout are abundant in upper Tampa Bay. Rod-bending fun can be obtained in potholes adjacent to grass flats and the areas of fresh water intrusion. Redfish and flounder are also active in the same spots.

Tip: Fish slowly and patiently for best results. When water temperatures start to decline, so does the activity of fish. When you find fish this time of the year, they tend to be bunched up.

Responsibility: Trout are delicate. If their slime layer is breached, it is almost a death sentence for the fish. The "slime" protects the trout from disease. Use a hook remover or bend down the barbs on lures to facilitate easy release. Never use a fish rag to hold the fish. If you must handle the fish, use a wet hand.

Practicality: This time of year it is important to check the weather before any outing on the water. Conditions can change rapidly, and the water is cold enough to kill in just a few hours. If the weatherman says stay home, it is usually good advice.

Captain Dave Walker charters out of Tampa Bay and can be reached at (813) 310-6531 or snookfish.com.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

ST. PAUL, Minn. — It is time to put the whole 1-3-1 controversy to bed, Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman said, especially as it pertains to Versus, whose commentators, he believes, unfairly ignited the whole thing in the first place.

"We talked about how we should handle this," Yzerman said about interview requests from Versus, which telecast Monday's game between Tampa Bay and the Wild. "At this stage we decided we have no interest in getting into a feud with Versus."

But, Yzerman stressed, if Versus analysts "improperly" or "unnecessarily" criticize the team, as Yzerman believes they did during a Nov. 9 game with the Flyers, "we reserve the right that we may not cooperate in the future."

Versus' telecast Monday was its first with the Lightning since the Philadelphia game, when analysts Mike Milbury, Keith Jones and Pierre McGuire piled on the Lightning for using the defensive 1-3-1 formation they said produces boring hockey.

Milbury even stalked off the set in protest of the 1-3-1, and Jones said the league should punish the Lightning and coach Guy Boucher. There was no criticism of Flyers coach Peter Laviolette, who several times instructed his players to stall their defensive-zone breakouts during what turned into Tampa Bay's 2-1 overtime win.

"We're open to criticism for every decision we make, how we play, how we perform," Yzerman said. "But there are ways things should be done and we, as an organization, disagreed with how that event was handled. But we're moving on. We're not going to lose any sleep over it and our intention is to cooperate."

A Versus spokesman said Milbury and Jones were given no special instructions on how to handle the Lightning or analyze the 1-3-1 during Monday's game.

Versus also is televising Wednesday's Lightning game with the Red Wings, so it will be interesting to see how Boucher handles any interview requests.

Asked if he would cooperate with Versus, one of the league's most accessible coaches said only, "I'll deal with them like I deal with everybody else."

TWO MORE YEARS: W Dana Tyrell signed a two-year, one-way contract that covers the 2012-13 and 2013-14 seasons and pays $600,000 a season, a nice reward for a player cut out of training camp so the team could get better looks at Brett Connolly, Blair Jones and Mattias Ritola.

"It might turn out to be a blessing in disguise," said Tyrell, recalled last week. "I was able to go down and work on my game."

"It was never that we were disappointed with him in any way," Yzerman said. "We had to do some things."

MEDICAL MATTERS: RW Steve Downie (upper body) skated with the team in the morning but sat out his third straight game. Boucher called the injury "a little issue" but one "we can't take care of ourselves."

Boucher said Downie will see an outside doctor.

"It's not big," Boucher said. "It's just we want to take care of it before it becomes bigger."

ODDS AND ENDS: Wild and former Lightning D Mike Lundin (back) made his season debut. … Scouts from 14 teams were at the game. … D Bruno Gervais was scratched.

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

GAINESVILLE — While the national spotlight was on Florida's former coach all day Monday, current coach Will Muschamp was out searching for a few good players. After Saturday's 21-7 loss to Florida State, Muschamp was asked what he'll do the next two weeks.

"I'll be recruiting," he said emphatically. "I will not be in Gainesville, Florida."

Muschamp said the Gators need improvement on both lines of scrimmage, and don't have enough depth to create solid competition in practice. But he won't say his players lack the talent to compete in the SEC.

"I think we've got good talent, and we've got good young talent," he said. "I remember two weeks ago looking at the two-deeps (rosters) in the league and we had 15 freshmen and sophomores starting in our top 22, more than any anybody else in the SEC. Over 70 percent of our roster is freshmen and sophomores and those are the guys that are primarily making most of the plays.

"But we've got to gain depth. We're too thin on the line of scrimmage to win in this league."

Muschamp said too many people want to point to one or two areas in search of a quick fix, but the problems are more complicated than that. And while he acknowledged there is much to be corrected, he dismissed the notion that Florida's rebuilding might be years in the making.

"We've got a long way to go and we're going to get there," Muschamp said. "I have a clear vision for what we want to do and how we want to do it. And I'm more excited than the day I was hired about where we're headed. And I told our football team, we're going to be fine.

MILESTONE MEMORIES: Basketball coach Billy Donovan says he can't even remember his first victory, but before he got No. 400 with Monday night's 96-70 win over Stetson, he said thinking about the milestone has brought back many memories, and forced him to realize how time flies.

"It doesn't seem that long ago, but in a lot of ways it is long ago," Donovan said. "There's been some players that I've even recruited 15, 20 years ago that now have got kids that are playing. It's a little strange. … I saw Jason Williams (who was courtside Monday) here the last week and I'm saying, the guy's in his mid 30s and retired. I just feel older now. It's a different feeling. To be able to be here for so long and for that to happen, I've just been blessed to have a lot of really good players.'

TOURNEY BOUND: The No. 17-ranked volleyball team will begin NCAA Tournament play at 6 p.m. Friday against future SEC foe Missouri in Cedar Falls, Iowa. This is the Gators' 22nd NCAA Tournament bid, and its 21st consecutive.

This is the second time that the Gators will travel for the first and second rounds, and are unseeded in the tournament. The winner will play Saturday (time TBA) against the winner No. 6 seed and host Northern Iowa vs. Niagara.

"Everything that we're doing now for the next few days is going to be all about Missouri," Florida coach Mary Wise said. "They're easily one of the toughest opponents we've ever had in the first round."

Antonya English can be reached at aenglish@tampabay.com.

By John Romano, Times Sports Columnist
Monday, November 28, 2011

ST. PETERSBURG — The case of the accused ballplayer begins with a lot of suppositions, and very few absolutes.

There was the charge of rape, and the explanation of consensual sex. There was an alleged victim who was passed out drunk, and a defendant who lied to police. There was the negotiated plea bargain, and the non-specific apology in court.

And now, more than 3,000 miles and three years later, perhaps there is a question of values to be pondered by fans of Tampa Bay's big-league baseball team:

Are you disappointed the Rays acquired Josh Lueke?

Just to clarify, there is no trial, referendum or hearing on this matter. Lueke fulfilled his obligations some time ago, and the Rays are comfortable with their background check.

This is more of an individual issue for those who care about the fortunes of a baseball team and a community. This is, largely, a matter of personal beliefs and expectations.

In essence, it is a question of whether you expect your ballplayers to be held to higher standards.

• • •

Josh Lueke was a 23-year-old Class A pitcher in the Rangers organization when he went bar-hopping with some teammates and a young lady in Bakersfield, Calif., in May 2008.

According to news reports, the alcohol flowed freely before Lueke returned to his apartment with his roommates and the woman.

Those would seem to be the only undisputed facts in the case.

The woman acknowledged she passed out and woke up the next morning partially nude and with the sense she had been violated. Authorities questioned Lueke, who said there was no physical contact between them.

Semen samples taken from an anal swab and the woman's clothes were determined months later to match Lueke's DNA, according to court records cited by KBFX Eyewitness News in Bakersfield. Lueke then told authorities that he had consensual sex with the woman that night, and had denied it previously out of fear.

He was arrested in May 2009 and charged with raping an unconscious victim. According to a 2010 story in the Seattle Times, a deputy district attorney in Kern County believed a conviction was going to be difficult to obtain because of the involvement of alcohol, the woman's unconscious state and Lueke's claim of consensual sex.

With the woman's blessing, prosecutors agreed to accept Lueke's no contest plea of false imprisonment with violence.

He was sentenced to three years of probation, and 62 days in jail. Having already spent 42 days in jail, the remainder of his sentence was waived for good behavior.

The woman did have one other request, according to the Seattle Times:

She wanted an apology in court.

"I understand that my actions hurt you and made you feel violated," Lueke read. "I'm sorry for that."

• • •

By most accounts, Lueke has worked hard to put his problems behind him. There have been no whispers of legal issues before or since.

Even so, when he was traded by Texas to the Mariners in 2010 it caused an uproar because Seattle president Chuck Armstrong had been unaware of the alleged rape. Armstrong told general manager Jack Zduriencik to send Lueke back to Texas and to get a player to be named later. The Rangers and Mariners dispute whether a follow-up deal was pursued, and Lueke remained in Seattle's minor-league system.

That is, until the Rays acquired him Sunday night for catcher John Jaso.

In one sense, Lueke is a perfect fit for Tampa Bay. The Rays have had success finding players with high upsides who were undervalued for one reason or another. Lueke, with a 95 mph fastball and impressive minor-league numbers, would seem to fit that mold.

The issue is that in the past, these marginal players pursued by the Rays have had more benign issues. Some were coming off injuries or poor seasons. Others may have had personality problems or were guilty of minor transgressions.

But an accusation of rape? A no contest plea of false imprisonment with violence? By setting the bar lower in this case, has something been lost in Tampa Bay?

It is a difficult question to answer and, in the end, is largely personal.

You can say Lueke has already paid his debt, and everyone is entitled to a second chance. Or you can say the circumstances surrounding Lueke's case are too disturbing to ignore.

If nothing else, Lueke's involvement in the case has earned the presumption of doubt.

The Rays, obviously, are willing to give him the benefit of that doubt.

Are you?

By Antonya English, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

GAINESVILLE — When former Florida coach Urban Meyer walked off the field at Raymond James Stadium in January after defeating Penn State in the Outback Bowl, it was his last time coaching at Florida but many suspected it wouldn't be his last time coaching.

Yet when Meyer, who resigned in December citing health reasons and a desire to spend more time with his family, was officially announced as head coach at Ohio State on Monday, fans and players in Gainesville had mixed reactions.

Meyer's decision seemed to divide Florida fans among two lines: those that say he brought two SEC and national championships to the program and that should be enough; and those who believe he lied about his health problems to get out because he knew the Gators were about to start rebuilding.

"The SEC needs coaches who have integrity to stand behind their team when the chips are down," said Chanda Brandt, a longtime UF fan from High Springs. "Shoutout to Ohio State: hope all your seasons are winning or history will repeat itself."

"When is a coach's word going to be worth something?" Robert Randall said. "I have heart problems and then (one) year later I'm better to coach?"

But others took the attitude of live and let live.

"I know a lot of people are upset, but I'm not one of them," Ken Morrison said. "For whatever reason, he left. I don't know if it was health, but it's over now. He coached, here, we won. I'm okay with that. We should all move on."

Meyer, 47, said during his news conference Monday that he feels "great," he believes he has learned how to balance, health, family and the job, and that he remains loyal to the Gators.

"My six years at Florida, Florida was my dream job," Meyer said. "I will always be a Gator, I will always be a part of that program. However, this is my home state and it's great to be back home."

Florida athletic director Jeremy Foley, who has a close relationship with Meyer, said he wishes the Meyer family the best in Ohio.

"We will always be indebted to Urban Meyer and his contributions to the University of Florida," Foley said in a statement. "He elevated our program, winning multiple national championships and made a strong impact in this community. Over the past 11 months, he has clearly had an opportunity to determine that now is the right time to return to coaching. He is good for college football and we knew he would return to the sidelines to coach again. We wish nothing but the best for him and his family as he embarks on a new chapter in his career."

Many Florida players expressed support for their former coach, but some believed too much attention was being paid to Meyer.

"Not a problem with me," said redshirt junior defensive tackle Omar Hunter, who was recruited by Meyer. "If he wants to be at Ohio State, good luck to him. I love Coach Meyer. He brought me here to Florida. I love him as a coach and if he wants to go to Ohio State, good luck to him."

Senior offensive lineman James Wilson said he didn't want to talk about Meyer: "Coach (Will) Muschamp is my coach.''

Several Gators put their feelings on Twitter. Freshman quarterback Jeff Driskel, who came to UF primarily to play for Meyer, offered congratulations. Sophomore receiver Andre Debose said he wasn't angry: "Over these years I found that college football is a business. Who would turn that deal down?"

Linebacker Jelani Jenkins, who abruptly refused to talk about Meyer on Saturday night, saying his focus was on Florida, took to Twitter to throw his support behind Muschamp: "We got Champ we'll be just fine.''

Offensive lineman Jon Halapio added: "If it isn't Tim Tebow all over TV today, then its freaking Coach Meyer,"

And former defensive tackle Terron Sanders added: "Why are y'all people acting like you're married to Urban and you just caught him cheating on you? Just be happy for him and his family."

If Gator Bowl officials have their way, Meyer's old team will play his new one Jan. 2 in Jacksonville. And some players welcomed that idea.

"I pray to GOD we play Ohio State in the Bowl Game..!," safety Matt Elam said on his Twitter account.

"Really wanna play Ohio State in a bowl game," offensive lineman Chaz Green said.

Things could get worse if Meyer starts raiding UF's staff and landing some top state recruits. There are already reports that UF director of football administration Mark Pantoni has left to join Meyer, and that Meyer plans to hire UF strength and conditioning coach Mickey Marotti and linebackers/special teams coach D.J. Durkin.

By Greg Auman, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

TAMPA — USF has major depth concerns at cornerback, with injuries piling up heading into Thursday's home game against West Virginia and the Big East's No. 1 passing offense.

"Not the game you want to limp into with injuries in your secondary, but nonetheless, this is where we are and this is the challenge that we face," coach Skip Holtz said Monday of the Bulls' regular-season finale.

Starting CBs Quenton Washington and Kayvon Webster suffered concussions when they collided helmet-to-helmet trying to block Miami's winning field goal two weeks ago. Webster missed Friday's game against Louisville, Washington was not cleared until Wednesday then hurt his shoulder in the game, missing the fourth quarter.

And those two are among USF's healthiest cornerbacks — backup George Baker, who started for Webster on Friday, is questionable with bruised ribs (X-rays today); JaQuez Jenkins continues to be limited by a hamstring injury. And the Bulls already lost backups Ricardo Dixon (torn ACL) and Ernie Tabuteau (back) for the season, plus Spencer Boyd is suspended for a third game.

COMING BACK: USF sophomore Sterling Griffin, the Bulls' leading receiver despite missing the past four games with an ankle injury, is expected to return against West Virginia. Receivers coach Phil McGeoghan said Monday that Griffin has practiced well.

QB UPDATE: After sitting out Friday, QB B.J. Daniels continues to test his injured right shoulder and was throwing during Monday's practice. Holtz said he'll continue to evaluate Daniels.

ALL-ACC: OL Zebrie Sanders and two specialists, K Dustin Hopkins and P Shawn Powell, were the only Florida State players on the first team. LB Sean Spence was the lone Miami player.

2011 All-ACC football team

Offense

Note: Voted on by 45 members of the Atlantic Coast Sports Media Association. First-team vote worth two points, second-team vote one. *unanimous selection

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

LOS ANGELES — Rick Neuheisel returned to UCLA determined to do everything correctly after a coaching career filled with big successes and equally big trouble.

Even athletic director Dan Guerrero, who fired Neuheisel Monday after four seasons, agreed the formerly scandal-plagued coach did most everything the right way at his alma mater, where he was once a star quarterback.

All except winning.

UCLA is 21-28 under Neuheisel, who will coach in Friday's Pac-12 title game at Oregon. Offensive coordinator Mike Johnson will be the interim coach if the Bruins (6-6) receive a bowl berth.

Guerrero fired Neuheisel two days after a 50-0 loss to USC, UCLA's largest loss since 1930 in their crosstown rivalry game. The Bruins also lost 48-12 to lowly Arizona.

The Los Angeles Times reported that Boise State's Chris Petersen and Houston's Kevin Sumlin are on UCLA's short list of preferred candidates.

LOUISVILLE: Coach Charlie Strong isn't a man to sit and watch to see if the Cardinals will play in a BCS bowl.

He has leaves to take care of.

Strong, a former Florida assistant, said he cleaned his front yard the day after Friday's 34-24 win at USF gave Louisville at least a share of the Big East title. He has saved the back for Saturday as his team's BCS fate is decided.

"When I have a chance off, I find something else to do," Strong said.

If Cincinnati loses to Connecticut on Saturday, the Cardinals will represent the conference in the BCS, most likely the Orange Bowl on Jan. 4 in Miami.

SABAN'S CASE: Nick Saban has a message to voters who help determine if Alabama plays for a national title: Be "fair." The coach of the No. 2 Crimson Tide said voters should not vote against his team just to avoid a rematch with No. 1 LSU. "If somebody does that, I guess it's their choice," Saban said. "…But the whole thing should be based on who's the best two teams." He will spend the week recruiting.

ARIZONA STATE: The school fired coach Dennis Erickson, but will let him coach the Sun Devils (6-6) in their bowl. Erickson, 64, who won two national titles at Miami in the 1980s, will receive half of his $1.5 million salary for the remaining year on his deal.

KANSAS: Ousted coach Turner Gill thanked his players, coaches and even Jayhawks fans who called for his job in a statement released one day after his firing.

RAZORBACK'S FUNERAL: About 1,200 packed Christ the King Catholic Church in Little Rock, Ark., for the funeral of Garrett Uekman, the 19-year-old Arkansas player who died suddenly last week from an undiagnosed heart condition.

IDAHO POTATO BOWL: Utah State accepted a bid to play in the game Dec. 17 in Boise. The Aggies (6-5) will face a MAC foe.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim ran a closed practice Monday as sex abuse victims' advocates questioned whether he should still coach the Orange after the firing of longtime assistant Bernie Fine, who has been accused of molestation by three men.

As criticism swirled about Boeheim's initial support of Fine and his attacks on the accusers, the coach kept a low profile, seeking refuge in his office on the second floor of the Carmelo K. Anthony Basketball Center.

Boeheim softened his stance 10 days after an impassioned defense of Fine, who spent 35 seasons on the bench next to Boeheim and was fired Sunday.

The Rev. Robert Hoatson, president of Road to Recovery, a group that supports victims of sexual abuse, said the dismissal of Fine was appropriate but didn't go far enough.

"I think Jim Boeheim should be fired or resign as well," Hoatson said Monday. "These boys were members of the basketball program. Jim Boeheim's responsibility is to oversee that program, and the children were not safe on his watch."

Two former Syracuse ball boys were the first to accuse Fine, who has called the allegations "patently false." And a third man came forward last week, accusing Fine of molesting him nine years ago.

Bobby Davis, now 39, told ESPN that Fine molested him beginning in 1984 and that the sexual contact continued until he was around 27. His stepbrother, Mike Lang, 45, who also was a ball boy, told ESPN that Fine began molesting him while he was in fifth or sixth grade.

Zach Tomaselli, 23, of Lewiston, Maine, said Sunday he told police that Fine molested him in 2002 in a Pittsburgh hotel room.

As supporters of victims of sex abuse called for Boeheim to be fired, university trustees were largely silent. "I don't have anything to say about this," said trustee H. Douglas Barclay, who earned his law degree from Syracuse in 1961 and was a New York state senator for 20 years.

MINNESOTA: Power forward Trevor Mbakwe, the team's top scorer and rebounder, will miss the rest of the season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

AP POLL: Florida State dropped out from 22nd and Arizona from 23rd. UNLV moved in at 18th, and No. 23 Saint Louis entered for the first time since 1993-94. Kentucky moved to No. 1.

Top 25

NO. 7 LOUISVILLE 79, LONG BEACH ST. 66: Chris Smith 18 points for the Cardinals (6-0), who scored the first eight and never trailed to win their 14th straight at the KFC Yum! Center.

NO. 8 MEMPHIS 70, JACKSON ST. 45: Joe Jackson had 15 points, Chris Crawford added 14 and the host Tigers (3-2) overcame a lackluster first half.

NO. 16 MARQUETTE 88, JU 56: Jae Crowder a season-high 27 points, and Darius Johnson-Odom scored 11 of his 19 in the first half for the Golden Eagles (6-0) to help steady a shaky offense.

NO. 12 XAVIER 82, NO. 18 VANDY 70, OT: Tu Holloway scored 10 of his 24 in overtime, and the visiting Musketeers (5-0) rallied from 10 down to beat the Commodores (5-2).

Women

USF 77, STETSON 62: Jasmine Wynne led four players in double figures with 22 points to lead the Bulls (5-3), who blew it open with an 11-0 second-half run and set a season high for points.

3-POINT MARK: Florida Gulf Coast tied a Division I record by making 21 3-pointers in a 106-27 win over visiting Webber International.

AP POLL: Wisconsin-Green Bay, Delaware and Vanderbilt entered the poll in the final three spots. Virginia, UCLA and LSU fell out. Baylor remained No. 1.

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

TAMPA — From the start of his career, quarterback Josh Freeman knew how to finish games.

Freeman is the only player in NFL history to engineer eight fourth-quarter or overtime comebacks in his first two seasons. Two quarterbacks recorded seven comebacks in their first two seasons — Peyton Manning, in 31 games, and Jake Plummer, in 25 games.

But Freeman has lost his knack for the comeback, a reason the Bucs are 4-7 and have lost five straight games, coach Raheem Morris said Monday.

Freeman had two shots to bring the Bucs back in the final three minutes in Sunday's 23-17 loss to the Titans. The first try ended when his pass to Kellen Winslow was intercepted and the other chance was aborted when Freeman fumbled a snap and was stopped for no gain on fourth and 1 from the Titans 25-yard line.

"We've had about, I think, three games right now with the ball in our hands and a chance to take the lead and win," Morris said. "Last year we won those games. We finished the game and Free(man) was the fourth quarter Comeback Kid and we haven't been able to get that this year."

Freeman called his interception a miscommunication with Winslow but said he should not have forced the pass.

"We had our timeouts and we had plenty of time," Freeman said. "It would have been fairly routine for us to drive down, but the turnover made things difficult. That's something that at that point just can't happen."

Freeman isn't the only reason the Bucs haven't closed out games. Tampa Bay's defense is ranked next to last in the NFL, allowing 394.6 yards per game. The Bucs also have the 29th scoring defense, yielding an average of 26.6 points.

When the Bucs have been in the game, the defense has played poorly down the stretch, having allowed 74 points in the final quarter through 11 games. A year ago, opponents scored 63 points in the fourth quarter all season.

Tampa Bay held Titans running back Chris Johnson to 46 rushing yards in the first half. He finished with 190 yards.

"He did a nice job of running the football and staying consistent with his breakout runs," Morris said. "He had one on a breakdown by us. He broke a couple tackles in the second half."

A Bucs breakdown led to the go-ahead touchdown. With Tampa Bay leading 17-13 late in the fourth quarter, the Titans faced fourth and goal at the 2-yard line. Morris said the Bucs faked the blitz and dropped seven into zone coverage. Titans quarterback Matt Hasselbeck extended the play before firing to receiver Damian Williams in the back of the end zone.

Morris said middle linebacker Mason Foster left his zone to pressure Hasselbeck and safety Sean Jones did not find the receiver he was supposed to cover.

"You go out and grab your man in the zone," Morris said.

It shouldn't have come to that. The Bucs had a chance to pad their lead in the fourth quarter after an 8-yard run by LeGarrette Blount on first down to the Titans 26-yard line. But Winslow was penalized for holding. On the next play, guard Jeremy Zuttah had a false start and then a holding penalty that was declined as the Bucs were forced to punt.

"That has to be avoided," Freeman said. "You're in field-goal range, if your guy beats you, LeGarrette is going to get back to the line of scrimmage. That was a moment in the game where we really needed those points. We just keep shooting ourselves in the foot."

With five games remaining, Morris says the Bucs have to finish better.

"We have to play better," Morris said. "We've got to execute better. We've got to do a better job. Free has to do a better job and we've got to go out there and do a better job executing at the end of games."

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

baseball

firing no shock to former astros gm

HOUSTON — Former Astros general manager Ed Wade was hardly surprised that he was fired along with team president Tal Smith in the first major changes by new owner Jim Crane.

Wade was, however, disappointed that he won't be with the club to see what will come of the many prospects he brought into the organization.

"I do think the work we have done with regard to the depth in the system will be saluted in due time," he said Monday. "It takes time. We had a lot of work to do when we first got here."

MINOR-LEAGUE UMPS: Five years after striking for the first two months of the season, minor-league umpires reached an agreement on a new labor contract two days before their current deal was to expire. The agreement calls for salaries to remain the same until 2016 when umps will receive a minimum $100 per month raise, depending on service time. Per diem will go up immediately.

BREWERS: Johnny Narron was hired as hitting coach to replace Dale Sveum, who became Cubs manager two weeks ago. Narron had been the Rangers' assistant hitting coach.

ORIOLES: Ron Johnson, fired last month as Red Sox first-base coach, was hired to manage Triple-A Norfolk.

autos

Stewart makes chief change

Tony Stewart made a decision to fire crew chief Darian Grubb, and winning the NASCAR championship didn't change his mind.

Grubb was officially replaced eight days after guiding Stewart to the Sprint Cup title. Steve Addington, who quit as Kurt Busch's crew chief last week, takes over immediately — and begins work as Stewart and Grubb head to Las Vegas to begin the championship celebration.

"I know Steve well and I know how he goes about setting up a race car," said Stewart, who worked with Addington from 2005 through 2008 during his time at Joe Gibbs Racing.

Grubb won't stay off the market long; Rick Hendrick said Monday he has offered Grubb an engineering position with Hendrick Motorsports, where Grubb was before he became Stewart's crew chief in 2009.

Another move at Childress: Richard Childress Racing hired Drew Blickensderfer as crew chief for Jeff Burton, its second change since the season ended. Blickensderfer replaces Luke Lambert, who will be moved to a new position at RCR. Blickensderfer spent nearly a decade with Roush Fenway Racing and led David Ragan to his first career victory this season in July at Daytona. RFR is likely closing Ragan's team because of a lack of sponsorship.

Times wires

Monday, November 28, 2011

Two coaches, both in the Southeast Division, were fired Monday — Bruce Boudreau in Washington and Paul Maurice in Carolina.

That means every team in the division except the Lightning, which hired Guy Boucher in 2010, has changed coaches since last spring.

Boudreau won 200 games faster than any coach in modern NHL history but, despite a talent-laden lineup featuring two-time league MVP Alex Ovechkin, the Capitals stumbled regularly in the playoffs.

Former Capitals captain Dale Hunter replaces Boudreau and was greeted by loud cheers from more than 100 fans when he skated onto the ice at Monday's practice. Hunter, never before a coach in the NHL, will make his debut behind the bench tonight when Washington hosts St. Louis.

"I imagine I'll have some butterflies in my tummy," said Hunter, 51.

Caps general manager George McPhee said: "This was simply a case of the players were no longer responding to Bruce. When you see that, as much as you don't want to make a change, you have to make a change."

Hunter never has been so much as an assistant in the NHL — or even in the AHL. But he does have a long resume as a player, particularly in Washington, where he played from 1987-99 and was a captain.

He is one of only four Capitals whose jersey number is retired, which is why a 15-by-25-foot banner of Hunter wearing his red No. 32 hung on a wall behind one end of the ice as he led his former-and-now-current team through practice Monday.

"It won't be too hard to follow that guy," Capitals forward Brooks Laich said.

Boudreau won raves when he took over in 2007 and installed a run-and-gun style that enabled Ovechkin to score a league-high 65 goals. Profane but personable, Boudreau also became a cult figure thanks to last season's HBO 24/7 series.

But he never got past the second round of the playoffs — the most recent trip ended this spring with the Lightning sweeping the Capitals in four straight in the Eastern Conference semifinals — and his recent turn toward a more defensive style fell flat.

As for the last-place Hurricanes, they fired Maurice for the second time in less than a decade and replaced him with former All-Star Kirk Muller.

Muller, 45, headed to his first NHL head coaching job, was is in his first season coaching the Predators' AHL affiliate in Milwaukee. He played 19 seasons in the NHL.

The Hurricanes missed the playoffs the past two seasons and are 14th in the East at 8-13-4, leading GM Jim Rutherford to hire someone with a fresh perspective.

"I really wanted to bring somebody in that had some ideas from another organization," Rutherford said.

PACIORETTY SUSPENDED: The league suspended Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty three games for a hit to the head of Pittsburgh defenseman Kris Letang. Pacioretty struck Letang in the head with his shoulder with 3:14 left in the third period of Montreal's 4-3 overtime loss on Saturday. Letang was bloodied and sustained a broken nose, but he returned to the game and scored the winning goal. Pacioretty, who wasn't penalized during the game for the hit, will lose $26,351.34 in salary.

PRONGER OUT: Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger is scheduled to have surgery on his left knee today and will miss a month.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

ORLANDO — Billy Donovan literally dripped with joy after the No. 10 Gators' 96-70 win over Stetson.

He has never coached a minute of football in his 16 seasons as Florida's coach, but he got football-caliber treatment from his players in the form of a Gatorade bath on the Amway Center court sideline in the seconds after he earned his 400th career win.

But as the youngest active coach to reach that milestone and with a young team that is continuing to show signs of improvement early this season, it's a cleaning bill he said he won't mind paying at all.

"I think more about the guys who were here and the guys that have come through (the program)," Donovan, 46, said. "It's not just the NBA guys, it's the really quality kids that I've coached for a period of time."

Freshman Bradley Beal had 22 points and 10 rebounds and Erving Walker added 21 to lead the Gators (5-1) in the neutral court matchup. Chris Perez had 20 points to lead the Hatters (3-3).

Retired NBA player Jason Williams, who played for Donovan at UF, was courtside, and Donovan said former standout Chandler Parsons also spoke to the team before game. He said that kind of lineage is what he's most proud of.

"It's definitely a reflection that time is moving on and you're getting older," he said.

Even with a prime time matchup with No. 5 Syracuse Friday looming for the Gators, it was clear early Monday that they weren't looking ahead.

Stetson stayed close until a 23-4 Gators run midway through the first half blew it open. Florida relied on its outside shooting during the spurt, hitting eight 3-pointers in the half and 14 for the game.

The Gators went into the game a little battered on the injury front after starting forward Erik Murphy tore the meniscus in his right knee in practice. Swingman Casey Prather had a groin strain but played against the Hatters.

Will Yeguete started in Murphy's place for the second straight game and finished with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

ORLANDO — Billy Donovan literally dripped with joy after the No. 10 Gators' 96-70 win over Stetson.

He has never coached a minute of football in his 16 seasons as Florida's coach, but he got football-caliber treatment from his players in the form of a Gatorade bath on the Amway Center court sideline in the seconds after he earned his 400th career win.

But as the youngest active coach to reach that milestone and with a young team that is continuing to show signs of improvement early this season, it's a cleaning bill he said he won't mind paying at all.

"I think more about the guys who were here and the guys that have come through (the program)," Donovan, 46, said. "It's not just the NBA guys, it's the really quality kids that I've coached for a period of time."

Freshman Bradley Beal had 22 points and 10 rebounds and Erving Walker added 21 to lead the Gators (5-1) in the neutral court matchup. Chris Perez had 20 points to lead the Hatters (3-3).

Retired NBA player Jason Williams, who played for Donovan at UF, was courtside, and Donovan said former standout Chandler Parsons also spoke to the team before game. He said that kind of lineage is what he's most proud of.

"It's definitely a reflection that time is moving on and you're getting older," he said.

Even with a prime time matchup with No. 5 Syracuse Friday looming for the Gators, it was clear early Monday that they weren't looking ahead.

Stetson stayed close until a 23-4 Gators run midway through the first half blew it open. Florida relied on its outside shooting during the spurt, hitting eight 3-pointers in the half and 14 for the game.

The Gators went into the game a little battered on the injury front after starting forward Erik Murphy tore the meniscus in his right knee in practice. Swingman Casey Prather had a groin strain but played against the Hatters.

Will Yeguete started in Murphy's place for the second straight game and finished with 10 points and 11 rebounds.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Steven Stamkos' shoulders slumped and his stick blade hit the ice in frustration.

The Lightning sharpshooter, with an open look and a shooting lane, simply missed the net.

It was the perfect snapshot for Tampa Bay's 3-1 loss to the Wild Monday night at the Xcel Energy Center, where the team's 33 shots were dwarfed by the 44 that either were blocked or missed the net.

Even so, Tampa Bay had a 33-24 shot advantage. But two defensive turnovers in the second period led to Wild goals, one shorthanded, as the Lightning (11-10-2) lost a 1-0 lead — provided by Stamkos' 15th goal of the season — and its two-game winning streak.

Tampa Bay also gave up an empty-net goal with 23.8 seconds left.

The first period, which ended 0-0, was played at a furious pace and with few whistles took just 29 minutes.

Tampa Bay led 11-7 in shots but actually had a difficult time getting shots on goal. Of the 29 shots the Lightning attempted in the period, 10 were blocked and eight others missed the net.

Ryan Malone had a great chance with 9:52 left in the period when he took a pass in the right faceoff circle from Stamkos, deked around a defender and got off a crisp wrist shot toward the short side. But Wild goaltender Niklas Backstrom made a left-leg save.

Lightning goalie Mathieu Garon left a couple of juicy rebounds, but was terrific with 5:31 left on a glove save of Cal Clutterbuck's zippy wrist shot from the slot and through traffic.

The second period had just as much up-and-down as the first but certainly was more sloppy as Minnesota took a 2-1 lead.

Tampa Bay scored first, 5:53 into the period, on Stamkos' goal, a zippy snap shot from the right faceoff circle at the end of a two-on-one.

The Wild, which leads the Northwest Division, answered at 7:39 with a shorthanded goal after a terrible giveaway in the defensive zone by Lightning defenseman Eric Brewer, who started to skate the puck from behind his own net but let it slide away.

Garon had little chance on the resulting two-on-none that ended with Clutterbuck's goal past the sprawling goalie.

Minnesota went ahead 2-1 with 2:54 left, when Pierre-Marc Bouchard scored on a one-timer from the right faceoff circle that beat Garon short side after Brett Connolly lost the puck in the defensive zone to Nick Johnson.

Stamkos had one last chance, 8:41 into the third period, but Backstrom stoned him in front with a left-foot save.

First Period—None. Penalties—Pyatt, TB (tripping), 14:29.

Second Period—1, Tampa Bay, Stamkos 15, 5:53. 2, Minnesota, Clutterbuck 7 (Koivu), 7:39 (sh). 3, Minnesota, Bouchard 3 (N.Johnson), 17:06. Penalties—Cullen, Min (slashing), 6:34; Moore, TB (hooking), 13:43.

Third Period—4, Minnesota, Koivu 4 (Spurgeon, Clutterbuck), 19:36 (en). Penalties—Heatley, Min (tripping), :43. Shots on Goal—Tampa Bay 11-9-13—33. Minnesota 7-9-8—24. Power-play opportunities—Tampa Bay 0 of 2; Minnesota 0 of 2. Goalies—Tampa Bay, Garon 5-4-1 (23 shots-21 saves). Minnesota, Backstrom 8-5-2 (33-32). A—16,628 (18,064). T—2:16. Referees—Stephane Auger, Paul Devorski. Linesmen—Pierre Champoux, Mike Cvik.

By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Monday, November 28, 2011

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Coach Guy Boucher already had run through a list of the Lightning's missed scoring opportunities Monday night, when someone brought up Steven Stamkos' third-period chance in front of the net.

A cross-ice pass from Teddy Purcell, Stamkos driving forward with speed and then a left-toe save by Wild goaltender Niklas Backstrom.

"I forgot about that one," Boucher said, looking skyward in frustration.

It was that kind of game for the Lightning, which lost 3-1 at the Xcel Energy Center.

Tampa Bay (11-10-2) played with good pace and outshot Minnesota 33-24. It took 77 shots overall to Minnesota's 46, prompting Boucher to say, "We outplayed those guys."

But the Wild, tied with the Blackhawks atop the Western Conference, was better at converting its chances and scored twice in the second period — once shorthanded and both off defensive blunders — to overcome a 1-0 deficit built on Stamkos' 15th goal of the season.

As for the Lightning, "I'm going to look at the video," Boucher said, "and say, 'How could we have scored only one goal?' "

Start with this: the Lightning was 0-for-2 on a power play that is 5-for-45 on the road. It also had 23 shots blocked, and 21 others missed the net.

Boucher said the numbers showed a "shooting mentality" and good zone time. But defenseman Marc-Andre Bergeron said they also indicated the Lightning did not do enough to get shots past a committed Wild defense.

Vinny Lecavalier hit a post and the puck ricocheted off Backstrom's back and fell into the crease. Ryan Shannon failed on a second-period breakaway as Backstrom stopped his forehand wrist shot.

And Stamkos was stopped by Backstrom's toe 8:41 into the third with the score 2-1.

"I had a good chance," Stamkos said. "That was a great play by (Purcell), a good save by the goalie."

Lightning goalie Mathieu Garon also played well. But he had little chance on Cal Clutterbuck's shorthanded goal that tied the score 1-1 7:39 into the second period on a two-on-none that developed after defenseman Eric Brewer, skating from behind his net, lost control of the puck.

Pierre-Marc Bouchard's winner with 2:54 left in the second came on a short-side one-timer after Bouchard outfought Brett Connolly for the puck and defenseman Matt Gilroy was out of position.

If only the Lightning was as opportunistic.

"We deserved this game," Boucher said. "We just didn't bury our chances."

First Period—None. Penalties—Pyatt, TB (tripping), 14:29.

Second Period—1, Tampa Bay, Stamkos 15, 5:53. 2, Minnesota, Clutterbuck 7 (Koivu), 7:39 (sh). 3, Minnesota, Bouchard 3 (N.Johnson), 17:06. Penalties—Cullen, Min (slashing), 6:34; Moore, TB (hooking), 13:43.

Third Period—4, Minnesota, Koivu 4 (Spurgeon, Clutterbuck), 19:36 (en). Penalties—Heatley, Min (tripping), :43. Shots on Goal—Tampa Bay 11-9-13—33. Minnesota 7-9-8—24. Power-play opportunities—Tampa Bay 0 of 2; Minnesota 0 of 2. Goalies—Tampa Bay, Garon 5-4-1 (23 shots-21 saves). Minnesota, Backstrom 8-5-2 (33-32). A—16,628 (18,064). T—2:16. Referees—Stephane Auger, Paul Devorski. Linesmen—Pierre Champoux, Mike Cvik.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Stevie Johnson's days of colorful — and sometimes questionable — touchdown celebrations appear to be over.

That's what the Bills receiver suggested Monday, a day after becoming a lightning rod of criticism for a celebration in which he mocked the Jets and their receiver Plaxico Burress.

Johnson says he texted an apology to Burress for mimicking using a gun to shoot himself in the thigh. He also regrets imitating a jet in flight before crashing to the turf. That part proved costly, because he was flagged 15 yards for going to the ground and helped to set up a TD for the Jets, who won 28-24.

Johnson said he took to heart a talk with coach Chan Gailey.

"He was telling me I have to be smarter. I've got to be more aware of the situations and rules," Johnson said. "I'll listen to every word that he says."

Meanwhile, Jets defensive tackle Sione Pouha says the celebration, at least the flying jet part, was insensitive to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. Pouha said Monday that Johnson's act was "kind of a dagger" because of the attacks that occurred 10 years ago in Manhattan, a few miles from MetLife Stadium.

BROWNS: Linebacker Scott Fujita, who broke his right hand Sunday, will have surgery this week and coach Pat Shurmur said Fujita will miss "a significant amount of time."

CHIEFS: Todd Haley said Tyler Palko remains the starting quarterback for now after a 13-9 loss to Pittsburgh, but the coach acknowledged Kyle Orton will be given every chance to win the job before Sunday's game at Chicago. Orton was picked up off waivers from Denver last week.

JAGUARS: Coach Jack Del Rio said rookie Blaine Gabbert, benched toward the end of Sunday's loss to Houston, will start Dec. 5 against San Diego.

JETS: The team promoted safety Tracy Wilson from the practice squad and released safety Emanuel Cook.

LIONS: The team put Jahvid Best on injured reserve and signed fellow running back Aaron Brown.

PACKERS: Linebacker Erik Walden was released on a $1,000 bond after spending the weekend in jail. Walden was arrested Friday on suspicion of assaulting his girlfriend at their apartment near Green Bay.

TEXANS: Coach Gary Kubiak confirmed that backup quarterback Matt Leinart is out for the season with a fractured left collarbone. Leinart had his first start this season Sunday in place of the injured Matt Schaub.

FLEX SCHEDULING: The only change for Dec. 11 is the Raiders-Packers game, which is moving from 1 p.m. to 4:15. The Giants-Cowboys game remains in primetime.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

PITTSBURGH — The Steelers remain in the thick of the AFC playoff race.

They know, however, they're not exactly playing playoff-caliber football.

The latest stumble came in an ugly 13-9 victory over Kansas City on Sunday night as the defending AFC champions let the undermanned and offensively challenged Chiefs stay in the game until the final minute.

Sure, Pittsburgh improved to 8-3 and remained in a tie with the Ravens atop the AFC North. Sure, the Steelers won for the sixth time in seven games on the strength of four turnovers. Sure, they made enough plays to avoid an embarrassing collapse against an overmatched opponent.

Yet it wasn't exactly 60 minutes of crisp football. The offense managed 13 points and 290 yards while turning it over twice. The defense let former Pitt quarterback Tyler Palko come within a minute of pulling off one of the biggest upsets of the season.

"You're happy to get the win, but also disappointed with how the offense played," quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said. "I think that's what team is all about. The defense stepped up huge for us today and they carried us."

It really didn't have a choice after the Steelers blew a scoring opportunity on Mewelde Moore's fumble near the Kansas City goal line in the first quarter and couldn't take advantage of prime field position on several occasions.

Roethlisberger passed for a season-low 193 yards, though that number would have been much higher if not for two drops by normally sure-handed Mike Wallace. The offensive line let the Chiefs get into the backfield with regularity and the running game continued to operate in fits and starts.

Rashard Mendenhall needed 17 carries to muster 57 yards. Moore provided a spark but also fumbled at the Chiefs 2.

"(It was) Steelers vs. Steelers," coach Mike Tomlin said. "Beating yourself is going to put you in position to have to make plays at the end, like we did."

Pittsburgh hung around despite missing All-Pro safety Troy Polamalu for almost the entire game with concussion-like symptoms. The team did not offer a prognosis Monday.

Times wires
Monday, November 28, 2011

NEW ORLEANS — Drew Brees and the surging Saints made everything look easy against the slumping Giants.

Brees passed for 363 yards and four touchdowns and ran for another score as New Orleans rolled to a 49-24 victory Monday night, extending New York's skid to three games.

Tight end Jimmy Graham had five catches for 84 yards, including touchdowns of 5 and 29 yards. Brees' other scoring strikes went to Lance Moore, who had five catches for 54 yards.

This was a game New York was desperate to win after consecutive losses to the 49ers and Eagles.

Instead, the Giants dropped a game behind the first-place Cowboys in the NFC East and face the possibility of a four-game losing streak when they host the unbeaten Packers on Sunday.

The Saints maintained a one-game lead over the Falcons in the NFC South. They also padded their rushing stats with 205 yards on the ground, including touchdown runs of 12 yards by Pierre Thomas and 35 by rookie Mark Ingram.

Marques Colston had three catches for 78 yards, all on the Saints' 34-second, 88-yard touchdown drive late in the second quarter that gave them a 21-3 halftime lead. Colston's longest reception went for 50 yards when he caught a pass along the left sideline, slipped a tackle and raced upfield.

The Giants took a beating on the scoreboard and on the field. Defensive end Osi Umenyiora went out with a sprained ankle and receiver Hakeem Nicks was rocked by a collision with Saints rookie safety Isa Abdul-Quddus. Nicks stayed in the game despite bruised ribs.

The Giants did not get into the end zone until Brandon Jacobs steamrolled safety Roman Harper on an 8-yard scoring run that made it 21-10 in the third quarter. The Saints went right back down the field and scored on Brees' 8-yard scramble.

After Giants running back Da'Rell Scott fumbled on his 29, Brees connected with Graham, who rumbled down the left sideline and dived for the pylon for his team-leading eighth receiving touchdown of the season.