Justin Tuck Sits Out Friday's Practice

Justin Tuck may not be completely healthy after all.  The New York Giants defensive end sat out practice on Friday while his teammates worked out.

Tom Coughlin said Tuck was just sore and it isn't a concern.  The Giants head coach said Tuck was listed as "probable" for Sunday's NFC wild card game against the Atlanta Falcons.

It was the first time Tuck sat out a practice since Antrelle Rolle's call for "all hands on deck" three weeks ago following the Giants loss to the Washington Redskins.

Tuck quietly watched, perched on the stationary bike, while the rest of the team hit the practice field and only had a "no comment" when asked what was ailing him.

An unusually reserved answer from the defensive end.

The defensive captain has battled a laundry list of physical problems all season— including neck, groin, ankle and toe injuries.

In last Sunday's win against the Dallas Cowboys, Tuck appeared to have injured a shoulder but returned to the game and recorded a sack and recovered a fumble.

Tuck has literally put his neck-to-toe pains behind him all season and missing today's practice might just be a precaution.

The Giants are counting on the defensive line to disrupt Falcons Matt Ryan's potent offense and a healthy Tuck is a happy one.

Linebacker Mark  Herzlich sat with Tuck on the side and will not play (ankle) on Sunday.

DE Osi Umenyiora (ankle/knee), TE Jake Ballard (knee) and RB Da'Rel Scott (knee) all practiced and are expected to play Sunday.

Giants Victor Cruz Shows Knicks Crowd His Salsa Moves

New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz has been wowing fans with his game breaking catches and touchdown celebrations all season long.  Cruz's salsa steps done to a Latin beat have become the hit of MetLife Stadium.

On Monday night, Cruz was court side at The New York Knicks-Toronto Raptors game at Madison Square Garden and showed New York what all the excitement is all about out in New Jersey.

When Cruz was introduced to the crowd, he stood up and did his thing to the amusement of Knicks fans and, at half time, showed MSG reporter Jill Martin how to shake it herself.

The salsa is intended to be done with a partner, but when a dancer breaks off to do a solo— like Cruz does with his signature TD moves— they call it "shines" because it is your moment to shine and show off.

Cruz has been shining a lot this season and maybe it will catch on with the Knicks (2-3) who dropped the game, 90-85, to the lowly Raptors.

The 25-year-old  Paterson, N.J. native— who is part Puerto Rican— was asked by Martin what are the chances he might appear on "Dancing With The Stars."

"Slim and none," Cruz laughed.

While Cruz's dance moves have become a sensation with Giants fans, some opposing players claim he has two left feet.

Cowboys wide receiver Laurent Robinson mocked Cruz by imitating the Giant player's caliente salsa moves after the Dallas player caught a TD pass in Sunday's do-or-die game.

But Cruz had the last dance after he caught a couple of key passes that sent the Giants into the playoffs while the Cowboys two-stepped their way back to Texas.

Giants Tuck: "We're Capable of Winning Super Bowl"

Justin Tuck had a little trouble Sunday night before finding his intended Gatorade target— Tom Coughlin— after the New York Giants defeated the Dallas Cowboys, 31-14— but it sounds like the Giants defensive end plans on dumping a cooler of the juice on his head coach after the Super Bowl.

"We're capable of winning the Super Bowl," said Tuck after the Giants clinched their first playoff spot  since 2008.

Tuck finally did douse Coughlin with the Gatorade— with a little help from the coach's son-in-law Chris Snee—after the Giants handily beat the Cowboys at MetLife Stadium.

Tuck's optimism is not unfounded.  After a lackluster performance against the Washington Redskins, the G-Men had relatively easy wins against two bitter rivals— the Cowboys and New York Jets.

The Giants defensive line is healthy for the first time this season and sacked Tony Romo six times and chased him all over the field.

Last week against the Jets, the Giants got to Mark Sanchez five times and forced three interceptions.

The Giants (9-7) run to the Super Bowl is a marathon and kicks off next Sunday in a wild card game against the Atlanta Falcons (10-6) at MetLife Stadium.

The Falcons might prove to be a bigger challenge than either the Cowboys or Jets.  Dallas came to New Jersey with Romo and his bruised throwing hand and the Jets were there with Sanchez and his black and blue ego.

The Giants now face a formidable opponent with another Ryan on their side.

After beating loudmouths Rex and Rob, they will face Matt Ryan— a quarterback who does his talking on the field.

Combine Atlanta's Ryan with running back Michael Turner, receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White and veteran Tight-end Tony Gonzalez and you have a multi-faceted offense that can run up the score.

Let's play devil's advocate and assume the Giants do beat the Falcons and the New Orleans Saints defeat the Detroit Lions, then they will have to play the Green Bay Packer at Lambeau Field.

The Giants almost beat the Packers in a 38-35 shoot-out on Dec. 4 at MetLife Stadium and did beat the Pack in the NFC Championship game in Green Bay on their run to their 2008 Super Bowl title.

Tuck isn't the only Giants player sipping the Gatorade.

"I think we're in the perfect position," said linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka.  " We didn't get here the way that we wanted to, but regardless of what happened during the season, we're in the playoffs, we won our division, we have a chance at the Super Bowl."

The Giants are the first NFC East champion to finish the regular season with less than 10 wins but in 2007 no one gave New York any chance of making the Super Bowl— never mind beating the undefeated— and 12-point favorites— New England Patriots.

Tuck, who has battled through a series of injuries throughout the season, says he is healthy now and—combined with Osi Umenyiora and Jason Pierre-Paul— give the Giants the best pass-rushing trio in the NFL.

Never one to be left out of the verbal mix, Giants running back Brandon Jacobs backed Tuck's bravado.

"I wouldn't want to face the New York Giants right now," said Jacobs.  "It's going to be tough to beat us in the playoffs."

Romo Uses Left Hand During During Coin Toss Handshake

Tony Romo's right hand was still so swollen before Sunday night's do-or-die game against the New York Giants, he used his left one to shake his opponents hands during the coin toss.

The Dallas Cowboys quarterback's right throwing hand was "swollen from the fingertips to about three or four inches up his wrist," according to NBC Sports broadcaster Cris Collinsworth.

The puffy, purple and yellow hand and fingers looked like they could belong to Homer Simpson if Romo was missing a digit.

Romo injured the hand last week after he slammed it into a charging defensive lineman's helmet on the follow through of a pass.  He left the game after his hand swelled up.

When asked how the hand was doing before Sunday's game at MetLife Stadium, Romo replied, "Feels Great.  I feel like I'm gonna do something special."

The only people who shake left-handed are Boy Scouts.  Men have been greeting each other with their right hands since the days of Julius Caesar.  The right hand was considered the weapon holder and outstretching it showed your opponent that it was free of any menace.

Maybe Romo knows this and is hiding some kind of trick in his bloated right hand.

Coughlin Is "Optimistic Right Now" That Nicks and Manningham Will Play

The New York Giants passing game may have to Cruz alone this Sunday night if injuries to Hakeem Nicks and Mario Manningham keep two-thirds of their three-headed monster sidelined.

But not if Tom Coughlin's outlook is as rosy as his cheeks.

The head coach said he was "optimistic right now"  that both players could take the field in the do-or-die game against the Dallas Cowboys and join Eli Manning's latest favorite target Victor Cruz on the field.

Nicks—who re-injured his hamstring in the first quarter Saturday against the New York Jets—expects to be ready when the Giants meet the Cowboys for the NFC East title at MetLife Stadium.

The receiver sat out yesterday's practice but is feeling Coughlin's optimism.

"I don't see myself missing this game," said Nicks.

Giants fans shouldn't take that remark to heart— just yet.

"If I'm out there, I'd like to say I'd be myself, but you never know," he said.  "These things are tricky.  I'm gonna go ahead and claim I'll be myself out there.  I always got to think positive."

D'oh!  That's a big IF.

Manning will need all the help he can get in Sunday night's big game if Cruz is the only deep threat in his repertoire.

A wobbly Manningham returned to practice on Wednesday on a limited basis after resting his knee against the Jets.  He had been nagged by the swollen joint for weeks and spent most of his game time on the sidelines.

Nicks could be the key to unleashing Cruz once again if  Manning gets into a shootout with the Cowboys Tony Romo.

Cruz won't catch an opposing team by surprise any more.  After all, he leads the Giants with 76 receptions for a Giants season-high record 1,358 yards.  You can bet the Dallas D will be keying on the speedy wide-out.

As for Nicks (71 rec., 1116 yards, 6 TD's), who had only one catch for 20 yards while being blanketed by the Jets All-World DB Darrelle Revis, it sometimes comes down to a case of the dropsies.  He's dropped a couple of crucial passes over the past two games but said the weather was a factor.

"I can go a stretch where I won't drop a ball for five, six weeks," said Nicks.  "I don't normally have drop after drop after drop after drop.  It's normally... I go a whole season without drops, then I have a period where I might fit some in there, but that's me because I'm starting to lack concentration or something like that."

Concentration is one thing, injuries are another.

Asked about how far along the hamstring was Nicks said, " I notice it, I can't really dig like I want to right now."

He then put it in perspective.

"[I'm] close to 100 percent as I can get.  I don't think nobody's gonna be 100 percent playing football this time of year.  Something's gonna be hurting, but come game time, you know how to put all that stuff behind you."

How important are Nicks and Manningham in this game?

Nicks had eight catches for a season-high 163 yards and Manningham had a 47-yard TD in the Giants 37-34 win against Dallas on Dec. 11 at Cowboys Stadium.

"I ain't the type of guy that looks for no excuses," said Nicks.  "If I am out there, I've got to be ready to go."

Justin Tuck: "I Hate The Cowboys"

Just what Sunday night's do-or-die game between the Giants and Cowboys needs after a week of trash talking between the Giants and Jets— more recycled verbal garbage.  Aren't the Meadowlands swamps filled with enough rubbish already?

Yesterday, after the Giants huge win over same-stadium rivals the New York Jets, Giants defensive end Justin Tuck did his best impression of Rex Ryan and reiterated his deep hatred of the Dallas Cowboys.

When asked, Tuck told reporters he hated the Cowboys more than any other team— even more than the Jets.

Asked why Tuck plainly said," Just because I want to.  For me personally, I've been quoted many times saying I hate the Cowboys and that's still true."

Tuck has never been shy about expressing his dislike about anything Cowboy—including boots and buckles— so his remarks will be familiar bulletin board fodder leading up to the battle for the NFC East title and a spot in the playoffs at MetLife Stadium.

All it takes is the mention of "America's Team" to get Tuck wound up.

"They're what?" he sarcastically asked.

"I don't like the Cowboys and they don't like me, and that's the way it's supposed to be."



Maybe Tuck is still peeved that before the two teams last met on Dec. 11, Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware claimed Tuck had a secret desire to wear the silver star on his helmet.

All Tuck wants on his head next Monday is an NFC East Champions cap after the two 8-7 teams square off this weekend.

Tuck tempered his harsh words for his rivals with a dash of admiration.

"In the Dallas weeks, we probably trash-talk a little bit more," he said.  "But I think it has a lot to do with respect.  Those Dallas teams, they just seem to do it as close to the right way as we do... with their owner, their past championships and past [great] players."

"It's going to be fun— playoff atmosphere on a Sunday night, cold game with a lot of hard hits," Tuck said.  "You couldn't create a better circumstance going into the playoffs.  I know I'm going to be riled up."

Don't let Tuck's mushy sentiments lend you to believe he is getting soft on the Cowboys or is worried about firing up his opponents either.

"I didn't say a word," he smirked right before promising to add more fuel to the fire when he meets the press on Thursday.

And not one to leave anyone out of the fun, Tuck got the Giants' fans involved.

"I know our fans hate the Cowboys as much as I do," he said.  "So it will be fun.  There you go,  I just said it."

Jets Using Bloodied Photo Of Eli Manning As Playbook Cover

Eli Manning is the new cover boy of the New York Jets defensive playbook for this week's crucial game against the New York Giants. The photograph of Manning being sacked by the Jets— right before blood started dripping from a three-inch gash in his forehead— is being used to motivate the Jets defense by putting a subtle bull's-eye on the opposing quarterback's head.

The playbooks were handed out to members of the Jets defense on Tuesday by defensive coordinator Mike Pettine, according to the New York Daily News, and some may think the ploy is just a little short of putting an actual bounty on Manning.

Jets head coach Rex Ryan might slightly remember that his dad Buddy was accused by the Dallas Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson in 1989 of putting a $500 bounty on QB Troy Aikman and a $200 bounty on kicker Luis Zendejas before a Thanksgiving Day game.

Manning, who is having the best season of his eight-year career, probably remembers very well the August 2010 preseason-game against the Jets when the gruesome photo was shot.

On a busted play, the Giants signal-caller was cut on his forehead by Jets defensive back Jim Leonhard's face mask after getting crushed by Jets outside-linebacker Calvin Pace from behind which forced Manning's helmet to come flying off.

As Manning kneeled on the ground with blood gushing down his face, Giants fans couldn't help but recall the image of former-Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle in the same bloodied position from an iconic b&w photo.

Manning would not return to that preseason game after doctors used 12 stitches to close up the nasty wound.

Pace was the first player to get the new playbook and said he remembers the hit on Manning.

"It was cool to see it again," he said.

Pace also knows Manning is a much different and better player now.

"You have to make him uncomfortable.  It's like his brother Peyton, man," said Pace.  "If you let him sit back there clean, he's the greatest ever, but if you get your hands in his face, I think it puts a little bit more challenge on him."

The Jets may be using red blood before this game between Big Blue and Gang Green to intimidate and motivate,  but Manning is a lot better quarterback now than he was back when he was knocked out of that game.

The photo of a dazed and bloodied Manning might be a motivational tool for the Jets, but the Giants, themselves, could use it as a reason to go after the Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez.

An eye for an eye.

Anti-Obama Website Flew Banner Over Cowboys Stadium While Roof Was Closed

A right-wing website— campaigning to prove that the birth certificate President Obama released in April is a fake— spent thousands of dollars to fly a plane over Cowboys Stadium during the Giants-Cowboys game with a banner that read "Where's the Real Birth Certificate? wnd.com."

Only problem to their brilliant plan was that the retractable roof of the stadium was closed during Sunday night's game and nobody saw it.

The geniuses at the website, WorldNetDaily, thought they could reach the nearly 96,000 NFL fans in the stands— by flying a small plane carrying their message over the big game in the Arlington, Texas stadium— only to see the idea become the second biggest failure— after the Cowboys collapse— of the night.

Only a few straggling tailgaters probably even noticed the expensive promo— not the wide audience the group had hoped for.

Later, on their website, they acted like everybody at the game still saw the banner.

The website posted: "NFL fans wonder where Obama's REAL birth certificate is?  Nationally televised football game features surprise for Obama."

The real surprise here is how these guys even figured out how to rent a plane and make a banner.

Giants Coughlin Shows Everyone Who's The Boss

Tom Coughlin made two calls—one before and one during— a game against the Dallas Cowboys yesterday that saved the New York Giants season and probably saved his job—again.

Before Sunday's game in Dallas, the Giants head coach benched arguably his best running back Ahmad Bradshaw for the first half before the season's biggest game and then later called a time-out to ice rookie Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey's 47-yard field goal seconds from sending the game into overtime.

Taking a cue from Cowboy's head coach Jason Garrett—who iced his own kicker last week in a loss against the Arizona Cardinals— Coughlin's call made Bailey attempt a do-over which was blocked by Giants DE Jason Pierre-Paul.

The blocked kick gave the Giants (7-6) an unbelievable 37-34 victory and put them in first place of the NFC East ahead of the Cowboys (7-6) via tie breaker.  The two teams will clash again on New Year's Day at MetLife Stadium.

Benching Bradshaw was a game day decision after the running back reportedly violated team curfew although neither the player or coach would confirm that.  Either way, Bradshaw suited up and played ineffectively during the second half.

Brandon Jacobs, who was called a "bully" by Cowboys DB Mike Jenkins earlier in the week, got the start and lived up to the new nickname.  The Giants bruiser rumbled through the Cowboys defense for 101 yards on 19 carries and two TD's.

As many things that went right for the Giants went wrong.

Eli Manning overcame numerous tipped and dropped passes to keep the G-Men close for three quarters but when it looked like the Cowboys had the game in control, Manning came alive and led the team to 15 points in the last 5:41.

It was Manning's fifth fourth quarter comeback victory this season and after losing four straight, the Giants find themselves in the  thick of the playoff hunt.

But it all comes down to Coughlin.

Call him a taskmaster, old school or just plain out of touch with today's player—but he does it his way.

Every year there are calls for the rosy-cheeked Coughlin's head— especially when the team begins their annual December swoon.  Maybe this year things will be different.

"We needed to have a locker room celebration," said Coughlin in the Giants locker room after the win.  "We've been starving for for that."

Yesterday's victory changes everything about the Giants.  If the Giants lost, they would trail the Cowboys by two games for even the final wild-card spot and end the regular season facing division rival The Washington Redskins, New York City rival the New York Jets and, of course, their arch enemy the  Cowboys.

That road is more of a slosh through the Meadowlands swamps than a romp through Central Park.

Maybe this Giants team isn't reminiscent of Coughlin's former teams.  The running game has been anemic, the defense lets opponent's offense have their way all game long and it has given up 114 points in the last three games, but if there is a constant, it is Coughlin.

The more things change, the more they don't.

Brandon Jacobs To Cowboys: "I Am A Bully"

Brandon Jacobs agrees with Cowboys Mike Jenkins that "he is a bully" and because the Dallas cornerback said it, the Giants running back thinks the Cowboys are scared.

On Wed., Jenkins said this about Jacobs, "That's him.  That's what you get from him.  He is a bully."

Jacobs, the 260-pound pile driver, pulled no punches when he said that he doesn't mind the derogatory label.

On Wed., Jacobs proudly claimed "I am a bully" in response to Jenkins dig.

Not exactly politically-correct, but it makes some awfully good bulletin board material.

"I think people who call out bullies are afraid of bullies," said Jacobs on Thursday.  "If you call me a bully, that's how I see it.  They're just sitting back waiting for us to come there, and we're going in there ready to play football."

Just another one of the controversial tid-bits Jacobs has babbled this season.

Earlier in the season, he criticized the coaches for not using him enough and— after the recent loss to the Philadelphia Eagles— Jacobs commented about the fans who booed him during his 12-carries for 21 yards game.

"I don't take nothing back about what I said about the fans," he crowed.

Jacobs hasn't exactly been bowling over too many opponents this season with bully-like running.  His physical running style has been hampered by injuries all season and pulled a hamstring, after gaining 25 yards on two carries, last week against the Green Bay Packers. 

It sounds like Jacobs wants to make a statement on the field in this week's critical game in Dallas.

"That's always our plan," he said.  "If you go in there and bring it to them and keep doing it all game long, some body's going to break.  Either the person who's giving it is going to get tired of bringing it or they're going to get tired of trying to stop the person that's bringing it.  Whoever wants it bad enough."

Giants DE Justin Tuck agrees.

"I always tell him 'First they're going to try and face you up,'" Tuck said.  "'Second quarter they might slide and ask for their teammate to help them.  Third quarter, man, they're going to be jumping out of the way.'  I'm hoping that he understands how dominant of a back he can be when he wants to be."

Tuck laughed off Cowboys DeMarcus Ware's assertion that he wants to swap the "NY" on his helmet for a star.

"Me wanting to be a Cowboy?  Hmmm," Tuck said.  "Well, I don't wear Wranglers.  I don't wear cowboy hats or boots or those buckle belts.  And I don't need a star on my helmet to tell me I'm pretty good at what I do.   I plan on retiring a Giant."

Dallas Cowboys Head Coach Ices Own Kicker and Loses Game

The Dallas Cowboys made enough mistakes during their 19-13 loss to the Arizona yesterday, but none was bigger than Jason Garrett's time-out call an instant before kicker Dan Bailey kicked what would have been a game-winning 49-yard field goal with :03 seconds left on the clock.

With the score tied at 13, the Cowboys head coach iced his own kicker right before the kick went through the uprights but was nullified.

Bailey's attempt at the re-do fell short of the goal posts and the Cardinals went on to win the game in overtime.

"I was glad they iced their kicker at the end so I didn't have to do it," joked Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt.

The Cards won the coin toss before OT and Kevin Kolb's short screen to tiny LaRod Stephens-Howling ended up being a serpentine 48-yard game-winning score.

Garrett said he called the time-out before the kick because "the play clock was running down."

"We just wanted to make sure that he [Bailey] had a real clean opportunity at it," explained Garrett.  "It was at about six [seconds] and we were still getting settled in."

Dallas (7-5) could have gotten a stranglehold on the NFC East title by winning yesterday.  Now, they remain only one game ahead of the second place New York Giants (6-6) —who lost a heart-breaker to Green Bay.  The Cowboys and Giants still face each other in home-and home games down the stretch.

"It is disappointing but we still have everything we want in front of us," said Dallas tight end Jason Witten.

"We called the time-out, but it is my job to regroup and make the next one,"  said Bailey.  "I didn't do that.  No excuses."

Yankees Ranked No. 1 Most Valuable Sports Brand In The World

The 2011 Forbes Fab 40 list of most valuable sports brands was released yesterday and the New York Yankees have passed Manchester United as No. 1 brand in the world.

The ranking, using a data base devised by Forbes ranks the most valuable brand names in four categories-- athletes, businesses, events and teams-- showed the Yankees surpassed the British soccer club for the first time in the list of the most popular sports brands.

Even if the team's play over the past two days doesn't seem to merit the honor, Forbes estimates the New York Yankees name is worth $340 million-- or about the equivalent of Alex Rodriguez's and A.J. Burnett's contracts combined.

Manchester United's brand-- devalued by a currency drop-- is valued at a measly $269 million according to Forbes.

Surprisingly, the New England Patriots were the third-ranked brand over cross-town teams like the Red Sox or Celtics.

The popularity of  the Yankees brand could be attributed to the team's winning history and easy on the eyes colors (navy and blue).

Manchester fans wear a gaudy red and bright yellow mix.

Meanwhile, the New York Mets brand has plummeted to $144 million from $158 million last year, according to Forbes.  This is attributed to the team's falling attendance and growing financial concerns.  Oh yeah, they lose a lot too.

Brand worth aside, Manchester United is still a cash cow and is ranked by Forbes as the most valuable team in the world with an overall value estimated at $1.9 billion.  The Dallas Cowboys followed at $1.8 billion and the Yankees were third with a sale price estimated at $1.7 billion.

Winning it all seems to have little effect on the rankings.  Tiger Woods is still the most valuable athlete brand despite his sex-scandal and nearly two-year losing streak.  The Miami Heat's LeBron James was No.2.

The most valuable sporting event continues to be the Super Bowl, although the Olympics (winter and summer combined) is gaining on the annual Sunday bash.

The top businesses ranked in the Forbes Fab 40 were Nike followed by ESPN.

The Yankees brand has continued to rise 57% in value since 2007, defying a recession claims Forbes.

That trend could come to an end tonight--  with A-Rod batting clean-up and Burnett on the mound against the Detroit Tigers.

Cowboys' Show-Boating Holley Cost Dallas Bettors $72 Million

San Francisco 49ers safety Donte Whitner's shoe-string tackle of Dallas Cowboys receiver Jesse Holley cost Dallas more than a touchdown, it cost Cowboys bettors an estimated $72 million.

An estimated $100 million was bet worldwide on the Cowboys-49ers game, with an estimated 86% of that action on Dallas.

In overtime, Holley was caught from behind and tackled on the two-yard line by Whitner, leading to the  Cowboys winning field goal.  As he approached the goal line, Holley slowed down and raised the ball over his head then Whitner grabbed his ankles and brought the receiver down.

If a TD had been scored the Cowboys, as 3-point favorites, would have cashed for bettors.  The Cowboys opted for the immediate three-pointer and won, 27-24.

A touchdown would have covered the spread.  Instead, all bets were returned on a tie [called a 'push'].

So that means a so-called meaningless shoe-string tackle resulted in bettors winning $0 instead of an estimated return of $72 million.

Playing with a fractured rib, Dallas QB Tony Romo hit Holley on the 77-yard completion on the first play of overtime that set up Dan Bailey's winning 19-yard field goal, and Dallas rallied for the victory yesterday in San Francisco.

Bailey kicked a tying 48-yard field goal as time expired in regulation.

Whitner bit on the decoy play, that left the rarely used Holley wide open, before the 49ers safety raced down field after the hot-dogging receiver to bring him down at the two yard line.

Holley told ESPN he wasn't showboating, but that he had just finished playing special teams and "the Ferrari ran out of gas."

Cowboys fans are happy for the win but it could have 72 million times sweeter if Holley dove over the goal line.

Rex Ryan Blamed For Taser Attack During Jets-Cowboys Game

The son of the man, arrested for firing a stun gun into a crowd of fans sitting in MetLife Stadium on Sunday night, blamed Jets coach Rex Ryan for creating a confrontational environment before the New York Jets-Dallas Cowboys nationally-televised game even started.

According to a report in the New York Daily News, Leroy McKelvey's son, Charlamagne tha God, claimed Ryan stirred things up by saying in a press conference before the game that "It's probably not recommended that you wear Cowboys stuff" to the Jets home stadium.

"He shouldn't have had a Taser on him," said the son about his father's arrest.  "But I really feel he took a risk because he felt threatened."

Charlamagne tha God, a local radio DJ, said the attack could have been provoked because his dad was wearing a Cowboys hat and jersey and has tattoos of Cowboys stars on his shoulder and right forearm.

SEE VIDEO

Witnesses say otherwise.  They say the brawl erupted after a Marine became annoyed that McKelvey and some friends  would not stand or remove their hats during the national anthem and for talking during "Taps" and "Amazing Grace."

The witnesses claim the fight escalated when the Marine, who was sitting at the end of a row of seats in the upper deck wouldn't move when McKelvey, 59, of Monck's Corner, S.C., tried to get past him to go to the restroom during halftime.

McKelvey pulled the stun gun and fired a shot into the Marine's neck, knocking him down six rows, according to police reports.

Authorities are still baffled as to how McKelvey was able to sneak the weapon inside MetLife Stadium, especially with heightened security for 9/11 and the high-profile presence of former-President George W. Bush in attendance at the game.

The suspect's son claimed his father is a devout Jehovah's Witness and doesn't stand for the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance, but would never resort to violence.

"He's not a violent guy at all.  He just likes to have fun," Charlamagne tha God said.  "I would hope that an altercation didn't happen because of him not standing for the national anthem."

Police said three men suffered minor injuries, including the Marine, during the scrum and McKelvey had his nose broken.

"He got jumped by Jets fans when the Cowboys were leading by two touchdowns, so he was just defending himself," the son said.

The incident comes just weeks after brawls broke out all over Candlestick Park during a San Francisco 49ers-Oakland Raiders preseason game.  The NFL came out and said teams were going to crack down on fan violence by curbing drinking and tailgating.  The 49ers banned shirts with anti-team statements written on them.

The Jets-Cowboys game was the highest rated week 1 primetime game in 15 years according to numbers released by Nielsen.  The Jets won the game, 27-24, after mounting a fourth quarter comeback.

McKelvey was charged with felony aggravated assault, felony possession of a stun gun and illegal possession of a weapon.  His son posted the $22,500 bail. 

It was a solemn day that should have never ended with violence at such a prominent game.  The blame should be put squarely on the stadium security who fumbled the ball on this one.

NFL Got It Right With DeNiro Talkin' To Us

On a day filled with numerous ceremonies commemorating the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the NFL picked the right person to narrate its own tribute to the fallen during the New York Jets/Dallas Cowboys game on Sunday night.

Oscar-winning actor, and quintessential New Yorker, Robert DeNiro was the best choice to narrate the succinct and touching tribute.

In what could have been overblown and cheesy moment, the nationally-televised event at MetLife Stadium came off as a simple salute to the military, the first responders and the lives lost ten years ago.

DeNiro's thick New York accent was the perfect voice for all the people who remember that day.  If you weren't riveted by the actor's serious tone, then the U.S. Marine playing a lonely Taps or the National Anthem performed by Lady Antebellum had to make you reflect back on a day that can sometimes be overlooked.

The star of so many tough guy films lives only blocks away from Ground Zero and was one of the city's biggest boosters after the attacks.

His Tribeca Film festival was born from the death of lower Manhattan and was just one of many projects which helped the area pick up the pieces and rebuild.

DeNiro, who has portrayed so many memorable characters in New York-themed movies from "Mean Streets," "Taxi Driver" and "Goodfellas," to the greatest boxing film ever produced "Raging Bull," pulled off the narration with flying red, white and blue colors.

On a day filled with what could be perceived as too many tributes, this was the one the whole nation saw and in a place that, nine years and 364 days before, fans could see the two towers stand sentry over the Hudson River then, a day later, be brought to their knees.

When DeNiro said, "On behalf of the NFL and grateful nation, we salute you," he was talkin' to me and every other American.

Now we can go back to our lives--somewhat.

As for DeNiro, all is now forgiven for "The Adventures of Rocky and Bullwinkle."

Rex Ryan To Dallas Fans: Don't Wear Cowboys Stuff In Our Stadium

It looks like New York Jets coach Rex Ryan has put his foot in his mouth once again.  After being asked if he expects to see Dallas Cowboys fans in the stands during Sunday's game, Ryan gave a subtle warning to folks planning to wear ten-gallon hats.


"I don't know why they'd be here," said Ryan.  "They're coming into our stadium.  It's probably not recommended that you wear Cowboys stuff, I would think."

It wasn't the first time Ryan has called out visiting team fans but, this time, his joking couldn't have been more ill-timed-- considering the recent fan violence in Los Angeles and San Francisco this summer.

Last week, a soccer fan was beaten outside Wembley Stadium and died.

Ryan made the off-the-cuff comment while talking to reporters on Wednesday.  While it wasn't intended to incite trouble but, as usual, the outspoken head coach's words were controversial and couldn't have been more poorly timed.

The Jets meet the Cowboys on Sunday night for a prime-time game that will include a remembrance ceremony to the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.  The opening game for both teams starts at 8:20 p.m., so there will probably be plenty of boisterous Jets fans on hand.

Last October, Ryan told Green Bay Packers fans to watch their backs if they ventured out into the streets of New York wearing Cheesehead hats and green and yellow jerseys before a game in the Meadowlands

"I wouldn't want to wear Green Bay stuff coming to our stadium," Ryan warned.

Many cheese-wedge hats and Aaron Rodgers jerseys were spotted at the game, and there were no reported incidents.

Ryan has been quiet all week.  It's a somber week in New York leading up to September 11 and Ryan said it was an honor to be chosen as New York's home team on the 10 year anniversary of the attack.

"This week, I can't stand Dallas," said the head coach.  "But I'm a big fan of their next 15 games in the regular season, but I don't like them right now."

A silent Rex Ryan-- you knew it was too good to last.  Cowboys fans, remember to leave your chaps in Texas.

Jets Flight Crew Unveils Sexy 2012 Calendar Photos Shot by Owner's Daughter

The New York Jets have leaked some of the Flight Crew's sexy 2012 calender photos and they'll have you thinking about a different type of fantasy football. 

Only this time, the Jets cheerleader's swimsuit calendar was created by owner Woody Johnson's two daughters.  The photos capture 19 of the team's 41 pom-pom shakers in a variety of tantalizing poses over the twelve months.

J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets.  The letters never looked so good.  Even Giants fans would have to agree.

According to the New York Post, Gang Green's cheerleader calendar was created by Johnson's two girls.  The photos were shot by 23 year-old daughter, Daisy, in sun-drenched Aruba.

Older sister, 29 year-old Jamie, who is also a photographer, was the art director for the project.

A team representative told the Post that Daisy went through the usual interview process and was selected on her skills.  Oh-kaaay.

Whatever the procedure, the outcome is what matters and it looks like the aspiring Daisy and the models all have skills.

The Flight Crew cheered on Gang Green during last night's rain-soaked 27-7 exhibition win over the Cincinnati Bengals.  Quite a change from the sun-and-fun of Aruba.

The 2011 Flight Crew team will make its regular season debut, with the football team on Sept. 11, when the Jets meet the Dallas Cowboys in a nationally-televised game in Met-Life Stadium.

This was the second consecutive year the calendar was shot in Aruba and it's a lot easier on the eyes than Rex Ryan in a wig during a press conference.

2011 NFL Schedule; Don't Expect 9/11 Patriotism to End Lockout

The NFL announced it's 2011 schedule last night and the first Sunday games of the season will be on September 11--ten years to the day after the 9/11 tragedies.  The NFL is already planning to honor and commemorate the dead and their survivors even if the league isn't even close to snapping a ball due to the lockout.

Optimistic fans may see a silver lining because the planned 9/11 memorial ceremonies may hasten an agreement between the NFL owners and the NFLPA due to deep rooted patriotism.  Realists know the two parties will still only be trying to line their pockets with gold.

A lot of talking heads on sports TV shows this morning brought up the fact that the NFL is adamant about paying tribute to America for that horrible day and that the stadiums will be filled up all the NFL glitz it can muster to honor those who paid the price.

On Mike & Mike, both Mikes said the NFL "highlighted" the date on it's schedule press release and claimed the owners and players would, at the least, be shamed into settling the lockout because of all the bad publicity it would generate if they didn't put their differences aside.  The public outcry alone should bring both sides to their knees.

Don't count on it.  Here in New York--one of the three terrorist attack sites--it took almost eight years to break ground to start rebuilding at Ground Zero, because of political differences, and there is a ongoing stalemate regarding compensation to injured first-responders and their families.  The Ground Zero Memorial was bound in red tape for years and that's here in New York.

It's hard to believe millionaires squabbling about their benefits, salaries and all the other issues involved in the billion-dollar negotiations would let 9/11 influence their decisions.

The NFL ceremonies will include everything we in New York have become all to familiar with over the past nine years.  There will be somber speeches and moments of silence.  Photos of lost loved ones and praises for the heroics that followed the attacks.

The biggest ceremonies will probably be reserved for the New York Jets opening game against "America's Team" the Dallas Cowboys at New Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey on national TV that night. 

The NFL will probably be going all out that night.  Expect all the usual pomp and hanger-on politicians for this prime-time tribute.  The sight of former-mayor Rudy Giuliani, families of the slain and first responders will bring the fans and viewing millions to tears. 

The New York Giants game vs. the Washington Redskins at  4:15 ET in Landover, Md.--not far from one of the other terrorist hits at the Pentagon--should provide an emotional group hug, as well.

There was speculation the league would make the Giants-Jets game the season opener to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.  Now, the battle for the city will take place on Christmas day.  It is only fitting that Washington gets their moment though.  It's 9/11 tragedy seems to already be a faint memory here in New York.

It's delusional to think that either the owners or players would cave in for just a minute of silence before the opening kick-off.  The world is already filled with war and natural disasters.

How many fans paid tribute to 9/11 last September?  In New York, you are lucky to get a few thousand spectators at the Memorial Day Parade--and most of them are tourists crowding the Fifth Avenue stores.  Sadly, the marching soldiers usually outnumber the supporters.

Don't be seduced by any hype from the NFL, owners or union reps.  If the lockout ends and the opening ceremonies move you.  Fine.  Just don't let the NFL or NFLPA pat itself on it's back for overcoming the labor dispute in the guise of a 9/11 commemoration.

You don't need a football game to honor the lost lives and heroes or remember the horrible events of 9/11 next September.