Archives for May 2001

‘Centers is a good, pass-catching fullback that is a perfect fit in the new West Coast offensive scheme. With the signing, the team gains a fullback that can provide quarterback Rob Johnson another dangerous two-dimensional threat out of the backfield.’

‘The NFL free-agent market was glutted with big-name fullbacks, but the Buffalo Bills feel they landed the one that best fits their needs.’

‘Centers doesn’t exactly fit the prototype of the fullback as used in the game now, since he is not renowned for his blocking skills. He is, however, an accomplished receiver out of the backfield and his 685 career receptions represent a league record for catches by a back. That includes 81 receptions last season, a Redskins team high.’

‘Among all NFL backs, only Richie Anderson of the Jets (88) caught more passes last season.’

‘Larry Centers, the premier pass-catching fullback in the NFL, on Tuesday reached an agreement with the Buffalo Bills. Terms were not disclosed.’

Len Pasquarelli says the Bills tried to send Smith to Carolina on draft day, but couldn't get the deal done. They need the $900,000 in cap room the release of Smith will carve out for them to sign rookies.

‘… the Bills are in the middle of the pack in season ticket sales. Buffalo’s season sales are in the mid 30,000 rage. And even though Ralph Wilson Stadium’s capacity was reduced by nearly 5,000 with the addition of new luxuryboxes and club seats, the Bills’ must move 75,339 tickets for a sellout.’

‘"Director of football operations? Would it be appealing? Yes, particularly in Chicago. I’d have to say that," Levy said. "It’s intriguing."’

‘Washington, listed at 330 pounds in your program, weighed in at 385. The Bears were so concerned, they immediately placed a phone call to Buffalo to find out if this was particularly unusual. Former Bills coach Wade Phillips assured them that Washington’s normal playing weight the last few seasons was closer to 360 pounds than 330.’

‘Asked by reporters about the positional relocation of linebacker Sam Cowart, the Bills top defender, Williams said matter-of-factly he didn’t care what Cowart or anyone else thought about it. Players play, coaches coach.’

‘"When we go out in public and people ask for my autograph, sometimes she’ll say, "Daddy, can I have your autograph, too?’"’

‘The new coaching staff has also instated a more concentrated approach to conditioning, emphasizing speed and strength. Weight and bulk are out, lean and mean are in vogue at One Bills Drive.’

‘Ralph Wilson, Jr. had two horses in rthe Derby in past years: in 1971 his horse, Jim French, placed 2nd and in 1992 in horse, Arazi, placed 8th. In this year’s race, Congaree is the offspring of Arazi.”

‘What would you rather see happen, have your fiancée, Elisabeth Filarski, win "Survivor" or your brother, Matt, win the Super Bowl with the Seahawks?’