Archives for January 2, 2002

‘Thus the question: If New York loses to fall to 9-7, and Seattle prevails, costing the Jets their playoff berth, would their season be any more rewarding than Buffalo’s?’

‘While the game’s true significance for Miami won’t be known up until the time the two teams hit the field Sunday, the Bills might get the chance to prevent the Miami Dolphins from taking their second straight AFC East title, or at the very least, cost their rivals a home playoff game. ‘

"I don’t know if you can say we’re over the hump yet, until we finish out next week. I think you’ll have to go through the off-season to see the dividends into next season. It’s obviously a huge game against a quality opponent, they’re a good football team, and we were able to go down to the end and find a way to win the ballgame."

‘Prioleau’s elevation to the starting lineup sent Raion Hill to the bench.’

‘The Bills could be back in the hunt next season so long as, most notably, they score a starting offensive lineman in the draft, sign Sam Cowart to a contact extension that’s cap-friendly for the coming season, and make a decisive (and obvious) decision regarding their starting quarterback.’

‘For those of you keeping score at home, that’s two wins this season for Alex Van Pelt, one for Rob Johnson.’

‘Also, consider that Wannstedt has done this with his team playing a first-place schedule and three games in 13 days; struggling with turnovers and in the running game; and missing its top two projected left tackles, its best offensive lineman (Mark Dixon) and a standout defensive tackle (Daryl Gardener), among others.’

‘A radio report on Tuesday out of Austin, Texas, where Williams starred with the Longhorns, said Williams will push for a trade to Miami this offseason. Williams wanted to be traded last April after the Saints drafted running back Deuce McAllister in the first round. The Dolphins investigated the situation, but were turned down. James, a former UM star, has reportedly told numerous associates he doesn’t like living in Indianapolis. James has done his rehabilitation on his surgically repaired right knee in South Florida, despite the Colts’ objections.’

‘Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler insists what their offense does Sunday against Buffalo at Pro Player Stadium will be dictated by how the Bills’ defense plays and where the best matchups can be found. But he acknowledges that the team no longer adheres to Wannstedt’s philosophy of living by the run.’