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	<channel>		<title>RUWT? News</title>
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		<description>RUWT? News for Carolina Panthers</description>
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		<lastBuildDate>Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:18:53 GMT</lastBuildDate>
		<pubDate>Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:18:53 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers face difficult road after Dolphins loss]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- From Jake Delhomme's struggles to suspect
tackling to key injuries and just plain bad luck, there are
plenty of reasons for Carolina's 4-6 record.

It shouldn't, however, be a surprise. Following a playoff season
with a dud is all the Panthers have known in their 15-year
history.

Thursday's 24-17 loss to Miami followed the familiar script.
Coming off an impressive win over Atlanta, the Panthers fell
flat as a home favorite against a team without its top running
back and a banged-up offensive line.

It marked the fourth time this season the Panthers entered a
game with a chance to reach .500. They're now 0-4. And with a
brutal closing schedule, they appear destined to again fail to
accomplish consecutive winning seasons for the first time in
team history.

"I'm sure outside of that (team meeting) room, there will be a
lot people that don't give us a chance," coach John Fox said
Friday. "Until the math says it, we'll feel like we have a
chance."

They would be in a much better spot if they executed in the red
zone. Carolina was plagued by miscues, from the four sacks to a
key interception that turned touchdown opportunities into field
goals or worse.

Delhomme tried to get star receiver Steve Smith involved -
targeting him 15 times. He caught seven passes for 87 yards and
a touchdown, but Delhomme's first pick in four games came near
the goal line when he tried to force it to the four-time Pro
Bowl selection.

That play also was an example of how Carolina isn't getting the
breaks. The Panthers were using their no-huddle offense and the
Dolphins had too many players on the field. Delhomme wanted to
snap the ball to get a penalty, but the official was standing
over the ball. Fox said Friday the official had mistakenly
thought the Panthers had substituted when they hadn't.

"You're supposed to give the defense an opportunity to sub
(only) if you sub," Fox said.

Carolina also showed a drop-off after losing two key starters to
season-ending injuries in two games. Left tackle Jordan Gross'
absence was noticeable with Delhomme's lack of protection. And
the Panthers struggled to tackle 32-year-old running back Ricky
Williams without outside linebacker Thomas Davis.

Williams rushed for 119 yards and scored all three Miami
touchdowns. The Panthers have allowed 330 yards rushing in the
past two games, and now have more injury concerns.

Landon Johnson, who replaced Davis, was walking gingerly in the
locker room Friday after suffering a knee injury. Fox said
Johnson will not need surgery. Linebacker Na'il Diggs (rib) was
also banged up.

Fullback Brad Hoover did some running Friday and is hoping he'll
be ready to return Nov. 29 against the New York Jets after
missing three games with a high ankle sprain.

"I'm tired of being a spectator," Hoover said.

His replacement, rookie Tony Fiammetta, bumped into teammate
Travelle Wharton Thursday, leading to a sack.

The Panthers also got little from defensive end Julius Peppers,
who again was limited to mostly passing downs because of a right
hand injury. The Panthers had no sacks despite a myriad of
injuries to Miami's offensive line.

"It does affect your play," Fox said of Peppers' hand. "But
he'll work through it and we'll work through it."

Fox denied that DeAngelo Williams' sore left knee played a role
in him getting only 13 carries. It was a curious move because
Williams averaged 9.4 yards a carry and finished with 122 yards.

The Panthers threw the ball 42 times to only 27 runs, and
Delhomme was far from sharp. Carolina converted only 3 of 13
third-down chances.

"You can't just go out and say it's going to take 25-50 carries
to win the game, because that's not necessarily true," Williams
said. "I think then everybody would be running it 25-50 times a
game."

The Panthers dominated on the ground last season en route to a
12-4 mark and NFC South title. But this year's team looks a lot
like the clubs from 1997 (7-9), 2004 (7-9) and 2006 (8-8). All
stumbled after reaching the playoffs a year earlier.

Carolina faces two winnable games the next two weeks: at the
Jets (4-5) and home to Tampa Bay (1-8). But then the Panthers
close at New England (6-3), vs. Minnesota (8-1), at the New York
Giants (5-4) and home to New Orleans (9-0).

"It's going be a long weekend, but we've got another game coming
up against the Jets here and no time to feel sorry for
yourself," receiver Muhsin Muhammad said. "This is life in the
NFL."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135769-Panthers-face-difficult-road-after-Dolphins-loss</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135769-Panthers-face-difficult-road-after-Dolphins-loss</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:57:38 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Williams leads Dolphins over Panthers 24-17]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- With Ronnie Brown lost for the season, the
Miami Dolphins turned to their aging running back.

Ricky Williams showed he's still got it.

The 32-year-old Williams rushed for 119 yards and scored three
touchdowns, and the Dolphins beat the Carolina Panthers 24-17 on
Thursday night for their fourth win in six games to get into the
AFC playoff picture.

A day after learning Brown is lost for the season to a foot
injury, the Dolphins (5-5) continued their surge after an 0-3
start behind Williams. The 2002 NFL rushing champion had a
receiving and rushing touchdown in the same game for the first
time in his career that included a couple of lost seasons.

"Coach always talks about finishing," Williams said. "Sometimes
in this league, in a physical game, it's difficult to finish. I
think in the past we've prided ourselves on finishing games and
we did a good job tonight."

DeAngelo Williams rushed for 122 yards for the Panthers (4-6),
but Jake Delhomme had his streak of three games without an
interception snapped. His desperation pass into the end zone was
knocked down as time expired.

"We just didn't tackle well," Carolina defensive tackle Damione
Lewis said. "Ricky is a hard running, big tailback, He broke
some tackles, and that's him."

Dolphins coach Tony Sparano hinted his team might abandon the
wildcat without Brown, who was placed on injured reserve
Wednesday. Miami didn't use the formation until the second
quarter. It coincided with the Dolphins' first touchdown drive -
Chad Henne's 14-yard touchdown pass to Williams, who wrestled
away from linebacker Na'il Diggs.

Miami took a 14-3 halftime lead when Williams took the direct
snap at the 1 and got to the end zone ahead of linebacker Jon
Beason.

The Panthers got within 17-14 on Steve Smith's leaping 27-yard
touchdown catch and DeAngelo Williams' 2-point conversion run
with 5:18 left. But Ricky Williams bounced to the outside and
shook off Sherrod Martin at the Carolina 5 on a 46-yard
touchdown run.

Williams also caught two passes for 19 yards and a touchdown.
Chad Henne overcame losing his center and the backup and
committed no turnovers.

"We struggled at bit during the game, but the defense kept it
close to give us an opportunity and give us time to get it
together," Williams said.

Still, the Dolphins had to hold off the Panthers. After
Williams' long run, the Panthers got a field goal. They then
forced a punt, and Delhomme found Gary Barnidge on passes of 29
and 17 yards. But from the Miami 26, Delhomme's lob into the end
zone was knocked down by Tyrone Culver.

"Guys are fighting their tail off," Delhomme said. "We are just
not getting it done. ... We are not winning the close ones."

Early on, Carolina's offense stalled because of its makeshift
offensive line and the return from exile of Dolphins linebacker
Joey Porter.

Benched from Sunday's win over Tampa Bay, Porter served as a
captain for the coin toss, then sacked Delhomme on third down on
Carolina's opening drive, leading to John Kasay's 29-yard field
goal.

The Panthers mixed in some of the no-huddle offense on the drive
after its effective debut Sunday against Atlanta. They used it
sparingly after that, and the offense got bogged down without
Pro Bowl left tackle Jordan Gross.

Porter had two of Miami's three first-half sacks, beating Gross'
replacement Travelle Wharton.

The Dolphins had their own offensive line troubles. Center Jake
Grove left in the third quarter with an ankle injury and was
replaced by Joe Berger. Nate Garner moved to center when Berger
went down early in the fourth. Henne bobbled Garner's second
snap, but recovered.

Berger returned on the next series and was injured again. Henne
completed 17 of 29 passes for 172 yards.

DeAngelo Williams' 50-yard run early in the third seemed to give
Carolina life. But the drive ended when Nathan Jones picked off
Delhomme's pass intended for Smith at the Miami 4.

Smith caught seven passes for 87 yards despite getting into a
minor car accident on the way to the game.

Delhomme, who had thrown 13 interceptions in his first six
games, had gone turnover-free this month. But he was just 19 of
42 for 247 yards, and Carolina fell to 0-4 against the Dolphins.
It was a crushing loss for the Panthers, who also began eyeing
the playoffs after starting 0-3.

"There's still a lot of football left and we're still no way in
any stretch out of it," Panthers coach John Fox said.

The loss to Fox's old offensive coordinator leaves them in tough
shape. Dan Henning, fired by Carolina after the 2006 season,
found a way to score just enough without Brown.

Williams, the 1998 Heisman Trophy winner, continued his
resurgence after a career that included a brief retirement and a
drug-related suspension. The time off might be helping him now
when many running backs decline after they turn 30.

NOTES: Panthers LB Landon Johnson, filling in for the injured
Thomas Davis, left with a knee injury. ... Panthers DE Julius
Peppers again played mostly on passing downs only because of a
right hand injury. ... Dolphins backup RB Lex Hilliard, who came
in without an NFL carry, ran four times for 24 yards. ... The
Dolphins and Texans (0-2) are the only teams the Panthers have
never beaten.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135566-Williams-leads-Dolphins-over-Panthers-24-17</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135566-Williams-leads-Dolphins-over-Panthers-24-17</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:34:29 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Dolphins lead Panthers 14-3 after 3rd quarter]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By AARON BEARD
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Ricky Williams had a 14-yard touchdown
catch and ran for a short score in the final 4 minutes of the
second quarter to give the Miami Dolphins a 14-3 lead against
the Carolina Panthers after the third quarter on Thursday night.

Williams put the Dolphins ahead on the pass from Chad Henne with
3:57 left in the first half, then ran for a 1-yard touchdown out
of the wildcat formation in the final minute. Williams had 45
yards rushing and 19 yards receiving through the first three
quarters after a slow start, showing plenty of burst and power
as he replaced injured starter Ronnie Brown in the Dolphins'
backfield.

It marked the first time in the 2002 NFL rushing champion's
career that he had a rushing and receiving touchdown in the same
game.

John Kasay kicked a 29-yard field goal to give the Panthers a
3-0 lead after the first quarter. Carolina's DeAngelo Williams
was having a big rushing night, but the Dolphins took control in
the second quarter as Miami played its first game without Brown,
the team's top rusher.

Brown, placed on injured reserve with a right foot injury
sustained last week, had run for 648 yards and eight touchdowns,
but more importantly, he served as the team's triggerman on the
wildcat - a formation the Brown-less Dolphins didn't use in the
first quarter Thursday.

The Dolphins unveiled the wildcat midway through the second with
Williams carrying for 1 yard, but that modest gain started an
81-yard, 5 1/2-minute march.

Along the way, backup running back Lex Hilliard - whose first
NFL carry went for a first down but was negated by a holding
penalty - had an 18-yard run up the middle on a third-and-16 to
move the chains. Three plays later, Henne threw a short pass to
Williams, who broke free of a diving tackle attempt from Na'il
Diggs and bounced off a goal line hit from Jon Beason for the
14-yard score.

Then, after forcing a three-and-out, the Dolphins drove inside
the 5 before Williams took the direct snap and sprinted to his
right, beating Beason to the corner as he dove for the right
pylon to make it 14-3 with 57 seconds left in the half.

The Panthers started strong, mixing in some of the no-huddle
offense they rolled out in last week's win against Atlanta to
march downfield on the opening drive. Carolina put together a 5
1/2-minute drive and pushed all the way to the Miami 7 before
Joey Porter - who was inactive for what was cryptically
described as a "coach's decision" last week - sacked Jake
Delhomme on third-and-goal to force Carolina to settle for
Kasay's kick with 9:31 left in the first.

Porter added a second sack on Carolina's three-and-out between
Williams' touchdowns.

DeAngelo Williams, playing despite a nagging knee injury, ran
for 119 yards on just 12 carries through the first three
quarters, including a 50-yarder on Carolina's first drive of the
second half. But Delhomme threw a costly interception at the
Miami 4 to end the drive, his first pick in four games after
throwing 13 in the first six contests.

Two possessions later, Williams added a nifty 18-yard gain when
he ran to his left, then cut back to his right toward the middle
of the field for the big run that put Carolina inside the Miami
10 to close the third quarter.

Carolina was playing without left tackle Jordan Gross, who broke
his right ankle last week. The Panthers moved veteran Travelle
Wharton from guard to tackle to replace Gross, while Mackenzy
Bernadeau moved to Wharton's spot at guard.

The night got off to a bumpy start for Panthers receiver Steve
Smith, who was involved in a minor car accident on the way to
the game. A team official said somebody "bumped into" Smith's
car, but he was able to drive to the stadium afterward and had a
10-yard catch for a first down on Carolina's second offensive
play.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135512-Dolphins-lead-Panthers-14-3-after-3rd-quarter</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135512-Dolphins-lead-Panthers-14-3-after-3rd-quarter</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 03:50:09 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
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				<title><![CDATA[Williams, Stewart a go for Panthers vs. Dolphins]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina running backs DeAngelo Williams
and Jonathan Stewart are active against Miami despite nagging
injuries.

Williams missed practice Wednesday with a sore left knee.
Stewart was held out a day earlier with a sore left Achilles'
tendon. Both were listed as questionable for Thursday's game.

The Panthers were without reserve defensive end Charles Johnson
(pectoral), fullback Brad Hoover (ankle) and safety Charles
Godfrey (ankle).

Dolphins left guard Justin Smiley (shoulder) was active, but he
was replaced in the starting lineup by Nate Garner. Reserve
safety Tyrone Culver was active despite being questionable with
an ankle injury.

Dolphins tight end Anthony Fasano (hip) missed his second
straight game.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135472-Williams-Stewart-a-go-for-Panthers-vs-Dolphins</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135472-Williams-Stewart-a-go-for-Panthers-vs-Dolphins</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:15:48 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers WR Smith OK after minor car accident]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina Panthers receiver Steve Smith will
play against the Miami Dolphins after being involved in a car
accident on the way to the game.

A team official said somebody "bumped into" Smith's car
Thursday, but said Smith was able to continue to drive to the
stadium and is fine.

The four-time Pro Bowl pick has 38 catches for 512 yards and
three touchdowns this season. Two of those scores came in
Sunday's win over Atlanta.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135461-Panthers-WR-Smith-OK-after-minor-car-accident</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135461-Panthers-WR-Smith-OK-after-minor-car-accident</guid>
				<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:50:09 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
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				<title><![CDATA[Dolphins-Panthers Preview]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By BRETT HUSTON
STATS Writer

Powerful running games helped the Carolina Panthers and Miami
Dolphins grind out what may have been season-saving victories
last weekend, but there's not much time to recover.

They'll also have to move on without key cogs in their ground
attacks.

Ronnie Brown's absence could limit the effectiveness of the
Dolphins' wildcat formation Thursday night in Charlotte, while
the Panthers will try to get back in the wild-card mix without
star tackle Jordan Gross paving the way for their tailback
tandem.

Carolina and Miami both began 0-3 after winning their respective
division titles in 2008, seemingly putting themselves in major
peril considering no team has made the playoffs after such a
poor start since the 1998 Detroit Lions.

Instead, they've each won four of six to improve to 4-5. The
Panthers' 28-19 win over Atlanta on Sunday put them one game
behind the Falcons, Packers, Eagles and Giants in the wild-card
picture, with a game at New York still remaining on their
schedule.

"I think we were at a major crossroad in the season being 3-5,"
said receiver Muhsin Muhammad, who had six catches for 91 yards
in his return from a knee injury. "If you look at the playoff
picture, we have as good a chance as anybody else with seven
games left in the season."

Muhammad's return, Steve Smith's two touchdowns and a no-huddle
offense - which Smith referred to as "controlled chaos" - seem
to have signaled a resurgence for Jake Delhomme, who has three
touchdowns and zero interceptions in the past three weeks.
Delhomme had thrown an NFL-high 13 picks in his first six games,
when many were calling for him to be benched.

The Panthers have survived on their running game, which is third
in the league (156.6 yards per game) behind DeAngelo Williams
(5.1 yards per carry, seven touchdowns) and Jonathan Stewart
(4.8, six). Williams had 92 yards Sunday and Stewart finished
with 82 and two scores.

That rushing attack - and Delhomme's blind-side pass protection
- might be in trouble with the loss of Gross, the All-Pro left
tackle who broke his ankle against Atlanta. Gross had only
missed one game in his seven-year career, but he's out for the
season after undergoing surgery Sunday night.

"He's a leader, a top-10 pick," Delhomme said of the eighth
selection in the 2003 draft. "He was placed at tackle at the
first minicamp and he hasn't left."

Now, veteran Travelle Wharton will move from left guard to left
tackle, and Mackenzy Bernadeau, an untested 2008 second rounder,
will fill Wharton's spot with just two practices to prepare for
Miami.

The Dolphins appeared on the verge of dropping to 3-6 on Sunday
in Tampa after Chad Henne's interception with under 2 minutes to
play led to a touchdown that gave the Buccaneers a 23-22 lead
with 1:14 to go.

Henne didn't make a mistake when Miami got the ball back,
though. He completed two passes for 41 yards and Ricky Williams'
27-yard run put the Dolphins in position for Dan Carpenter's
25-yard field goal, which gave them a 25-23 win.

Henne finished 17 for 31 for 175 yards and improved to 4-2 as a
starter.

"I told him after the game in the locker room, 'You grew up
today,'" defensive end Jason Taylor said. "It's a maturation
process. He's going to make mistakes. We all make mistakes. I
still do after 13 years. The key is to bounce back when you do,
and that's what he did today."

Williams topped 100 yards for the first time this season, part
of a 199-yard day for the league's fourth-best rushing attack
(156.2). But Brown hurt his right foot in the victory and was
placed on injured reserve Wednesday.

That means the 32-year-old Williams, who's averaging a
career-best 5.3 yards per carry, will be the triggerman in the
wildcat formation.

"He's a good pro and knows that if Ronnie's not out there, his
role is going to change," coach Tony Sparano said. "The guy
carried the ball 20 times the other night. (We're) talking about
a guy that led the league in rushing at one point. He gets it,
he knows what he has to do."

The Dolphins figure to be in better position to stop the run,
considering they feature the league's seventh-best rush defense
(97.6). Carolina allows 128.1 yards per game on the ground to
rank 25th.

Miami will get pass-rushing linebacker Joey Porter back this
week after Sparano deactivated him for "off-field conduct"
against Tampa, but it's been vulnerable through the air,
allowing 239.4 yards per game and ranking 27th.

The Panthers' pass defense ranks fourth (186.4), and they've
picked off eight passes in their past three games.

Carolina has never beaten the Dolphins in three meetings and
hasn't faced them in Charlotte since Nov. 15, 1998.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134839-Dolphins-Panthers-Preview</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134839-Dolphins-Panthers-Preview</guid>
				<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:31:15 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers LB Davis preparing for surgery, offseason]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina linebacker Thomas Davis hopes to
remain with the Panthers next season, regardless of the rules
surrounding his upcoming free agency.

Davis was in the locker room Wednesday, preparing for surgery on
Nov. 30 to repair the torn anterior cruciate ligament in his
right knee. Davis was injured in a loss to New Orleans earlier
this month, ending his most productive season as a pro.

"I can't sit around and be sad about it and dwell on it," Davis
said. "I have to take the necessary steps to recovery and make
sure I'm back for next season."

But Davis is one of many players facing an uncertain offseason
depending on what happens with the collective bargaining
agreement.

Under the current deal, Davis would be an unrestricted free
agent next season because he has five years of service. That
would allow him to seek a deal from any team.

But if the two sides don't agree on a new labor deal and the
owners decide to go ahead and make 2010 the final year of the
CBA, it will be a year without a salary cap. Plenty of new rules
would then go into effect.

The biggest change for Davis is you'd need six years of service
to become an unrestricted free agent. So Davis - and cornerback
Richard Marshall - would become restricted free agents.

Carolina would then make a qualifying offer for far less than
he'd likely get on the open market. Any team wanting to sign
Davis would then have to give the Panthers a first-round draft
pick in return.

"It's out of my control," Davis said. "Whatever happens I'm
excited to be a Panther player and whatever happens I hope to
continue to be one after this CBA deal is done."

The speedy Davis was thriving in new defensive coordinator Ron
Meeks' system. He had 71 tackles, two sacks and two
interceptions in seven games and teammates were mentioning him
as a Pro Bowl candidate.

Davis is hopeful he can work out a long-term deal with the
Panthers regardless of the free agency rules next spring.

"This is where I want to spend the rest of my career and I'm
very content being a Carolina Panther," Davis said. "With the
CBA the way it is and the possibility of it going to an uncapped
year the team has the right to place a tender on me. It's
understandable. It's business and it's part of this game.

"I'm not disappointed in it, but like any player I would like to
be signed to a long term deal and finish my career here."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135137-Panthers-LB-Davis-preparing-for-surgery-offseason</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135137-Panthers-LB-Davis-preparing-for-surgery-offseason</guid>
				<pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:19:50 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers wary of Dolphins, old coordinator Henning]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Miami coach Tony Sparano and assistant
David Lee get plenty of credit for making the wildcat a
much-copied NFL sensation.

Offensive coordinator Dan Henning had little trouble making it
work - perhaps because he first used direct snaps to running
backs when directing Carolina's offense in 2006. It's a story
that's often forgotten when the formation's rise to prominence
is discussed.

"Dan added his two cents into the mix when we started talking
about it a little bit and drawing up for our preseason stuff,"
Sparano said. "He did mention at that time that it was something
(the Panthers) did."

It's with that backdrop that the Dolphins (4-5) and Panthers
(4-5) meet Thursday night in a critical game for their renewed
playoff hopes. The main component of Miami's wildcat, running
back Ronnie Brown, won't play because of a foot injury. But that
only makes the Panthers more nervous in a short week.

What will Henning, fired by Carolina in 2006 amid criticism he
was too conservative, cook up to make up for Brown's absence?
Will Ricky Williams line up in that formation? What about rookie
Pat White? Will they not use it all?

"I have all the trust in the world of Dan on game day to let him
do his thing," Sparano said. "One of the things I learned as a
play caller was that the head coach can get in the way
sometimes. People in your ear, too many chefs in the kitchen,
that can be a problem. I like to stay out of the way of Dan as
much as possible."

That wasn't the case with the Panthers. Conservative coach John
Fox limited what Henning could do. Many felt Henning was made
the scapegoat after a miserable 2006 season - even after his
inventive way to win a game late that season.

Jake Delhomme was hurt and backup Chris Weinke was hampered by
an injured throwing shoulder. Henning lessened Weinke's load by
occasionally putting DeAngelo Williams behind center against
Atlanta. The then-rookie picked up first downs on seven of eight
third-down carries. The Panthers threw seven passes all game and
won 10-3.

A month later, Henning was gone, and the Panthers have used the
wildcat sparingly since.

"He's a good football coach, a very smart man," Delhomme said.
"I do miss him, but that's coaching. Sometimes things just don't
mesh at certain times."

After a year out of football, Henning returned to work for buddy
Bill Parcells, unveiling double-reverse passes by running backs
that Fox never would have signed off on as the Dolphins won the
AFC East last season.

The Panthers, with Jeff Davidson calling plays in their
run-first approach, won a division title, too. Both teams got
off to 0-3 starts this year before winning four of their next
six to put them back on the edge of the playoff picture.

"Mirror images, both had double-digit wins last year and they're
just trying to get back to .500," Delhomme said of the first
Thursday game in Carolina's 15-year history. "We're doing some
decent things and we've got to see if we can carry it over."

Carolina veered from its play-it-safe approach a bit Sunday,
using a no-huddle offense that produced two touchdown passes to
Steve Smith in a 28-19 win over the Falcons. Delhomme went
turnover-free for the third straight game after 13 interceptions
in his first six.

But the Panthers lost left tackle Jordan Gross to a broken
ankle, causing them to shuffle the offensive line. Delhomme
hinted that might lead to ditching the no-huddle.

Sparano said maybe Brown's injury will mean no wildcat, too. Or,
with only three days of preparation time, maybe both teams are
already running misdirection plays.

"You have to recover from a game pretty quickly," Dolphins
linebacker Jason Taylor said. "I'm not 25 anymore."

Joey Porter is expected to line up with Taylor at linebacker
Thursday after he was a healthy scratch in Sunday's
uncomfortably close 25-23 win over Tampa Bay. But how much he'll
play is uncertain after replacements Charlie Anderson and
Cameron Wake combined for two sacks.

The Panthers will play their second game without weakside
linebacker Thomas Davis, lost for the season with a torn knee
ligament. The Panthers were helped Sunday when Michael Turner
left with a second-quarter ankle injury after already rushing
for 111 yards.

Now Carolina faces the NFL's fourth-ranked rushing offense
without Brown. Ricky Williams rushed for 102 yards in his place
Sunday and is averaging 5.3 yards a carry despite being 32. He's
taken some snaps in the wildcat, but Brown's injury could mean
more time for White.

"It's good to have that kind of backup at the running back
position, so we aren't going to change our package," quarterback
Chad Henne said.

It might be tweaked a little bit, though. Henning, who declined
interview requests this week, may have a few surprises for the
team that didn't give him much freedom, then sent him packing.

"Dan Henning, he was good for us because he knew how to take the
personnel and craft plays around what he had," Panthers receiver
Muhsin Muhammad said. "That's what he's doing in Miami. He
crafted this style, trick plays, wildcat and all this different
stuff."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135073-Panthers-wary-of-Dolphins-old-coordinator-Henning</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135073-Panthers-wary-of-Dolphins-old-coordinator-Henning</guid>
				<pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:59:47 GMT</pubDate>
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			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Panthers RBs Williams, Stewart questionable]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina Panthers running backs DeAngelo
Williams and Jonathan Stewart are questionable for Thursday's
game against Miami with lingering injuries.

Williams skipped practice Wednesday with a sore left knee, but
coach John Fox said they were "resting" him. Stewart practiced
in full after sitting out Tuesday with a sore Achilles' tendon.

Defensive tackle Damione Lewis questionable with a sore
shoulder, but practiced Wednesday.

The biggest concern for Carolina is defensive end Charles
Johnson, who is doubtful after missing his second straight
practice with a strained pectoral muscle. Johnson plays mostly
on passing downs.

Fullback Brad Hoover and safety Charles Godfrey are also
doubtful, but aren't expected to play because of ankle injuries.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135049-Panthers-RBs-Williams-Stewart-questionable</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135049-Panthers-RBs-Williams-Stewart-questionable</guid>
				<pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:20:52 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Wednesday's National Football League Capsules]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[OPENING LINE - Panthers by 3

RECORD VS. SPREAD - Miami 4-5; Carolina 4-5

SERIES RECORD - Miami leads 3-0

LAST MEETING - Dolphins beat Panthers 27-24, Sept. 25, 2005

LAST WEEK - Dolphins beat Buccaneers 25-23; Panthers beat
Falcons 28-19

DOLPHINS OFFENSE - OVERALL (23), RUSH (4), PASS (30)

DOLPHINS DEFENSE - OVERALL (19), RUSH (7), PASS (27)

PANTHERS OFFENSE - OVERALL (21), RUSH (3), PASS (25)

PANTHERS DEFENSE - OVERALL (12), RUSH (25), PASS (4)

STREAKS, STATS AND NOTES - Matchup of division winners from last
season looking to get into playoff mix after slow starts. ...
Each club depends on its running game, but Dolphins RB Ronnie
Brown (foot) is out. ... Ricky Williams is expected to get bulk
of carries and take some snaps in wildcat. Williams rushed for
102 yards Sunday vs. Bucs. ... Game marks return of Dolphins
offensive coordinator Dan Henning to Carolina, where he was
fired after 2006 season. ... Henning first used wildcat in
Carolina late in 2006 season, when DeAngelo Williams rushed for
seven first downs in eight tries in win over Atlanta. ...
Dolphins LB Joey Porter's status is uncertain after he was
healthy scratch vs. Bucs. ... With Brown out, Miami rookie Pat
White could get increased role at site of final college game,
where he became first starting QB to go 4-0 in bowls. ... Miami
is 1-3 on road. ... Dolphins' first trip to Charlotte since
1998. ... It's first Thursday game in Panthers' 15-year history.
... Miami and Houston (0-2) are only teams Carolina has never
beaten. Panthers are only team Dolphins have never lost to. ...
Panthers unveiled no-huddle offense vs. Falcons, and Jake
Delhomme went turnover-free for third straight game. He had 13
INTs in first six games. ... Panthers have improved from
minus-14 turnover margin to minus-7 in last three games. ...
Panthers lost Pro Bowl LT Jordan Gross to broken ankle vs.
Atlanta. Travelle Wharton moves to his spot and Mackenzy
Bernadeau is inserted at LG. ... Steve Smith's two2 TD catches
vs. Falcons tripled output by Carolina WRs this season. ...
Williams and Jonathan Stewart combined for 174 yards and two TDs
vs. Falcons.

END CAPSULE]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135040-Wednesdays-National-Football-League-Capsules</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/135040-Wednesdays-National-Football-League-Capsules</guid>
				<pubDate>Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:27:14 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Delhomme: no guarantee Panthers keep no-huddle]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Jake Delhomme talks of being comfortable in
it. Steve Smith raves about it. DeAngelo Williams is a fan, too.

The no-huddle offense was a hit in Carolina on Sunday, producing
two touchdown passes from Delhomme to Smith in a victory over
Atlanta. But Delhomme hinted Tuesday that folks hoping it will
become a regular part of the offense may be disappointed.

Blame left tackle Jordan Gross' broken ankle and the cramming
going on ahead of Thursday's game against Miami.

"I enjoy it, but to say you can do that throughout the course of
the whole season, I don't think you can do that," Delhomme said.
"And certainly losing Jordan, I don't know how much we can
really dive into it, especially on a short week."

The new wrinkle has Dolphins coach Tony Sparano on notice,
however. He acknowledged they had to adapt a game-plan they had
already begun to put in place last week with only three days off
between games.

"It presents some challenges, particularly in a short week," he
said.

The Panthers have had the no-huddle in the playbook since
training camp, but had used it almost exclusively in the
2-minute offense. That changed on the second series Sunday, when
the Panthers surprised the Falcons with Delhomme calling his own
plays at the line of scrimmage. It produced touchdowns on the
first two drives as Carolina built a 21-10 halftime lead.

Smith called it "controlled chaos," while Williams, who rushed
for 92 yards, said it opened up the run game.

"It showed we're not just a one-dimensional team," he said. "We
can pass the ball."

It also marked the third straight game Delhomme went
turnover-free after 13 interceptions in the first six games.

"It's satisfying to see Jake get his confidence back," said
receiver Muhsin Muhammad, who had six catches for 91 yards in
his return from a knee injury.

It puts Delhomme his element. He breaks the huddle with a
certain number of plays - he wouldn't say how many - and makes
the call based on what he sees from the defense.

"Try to be a coordinator," Delhomme said. "Try to call whatever
plays we have called, and we have a wide variety we can choose
from. The good thing is we can get into a lot of different
formations. Guys can play multiple positions, so that's always
good."

Smith and Muhammad have experience playing both the X and Y
receiver positions. Carolina's tight ends can also block from
the fullback spot. It allowed the Panthers to keep the Falcons
off-balance.

"I feel very comfortable in that situation," Delhomme said.

But the win came at a cost. Gross was carted off the field in
the second quarter with a broken right ankle. The Panthers moved
veteran Travelle Wharton from left guard to Gross' spot.
Second-year pro Mackenzy Bernadeau replaced Wharton.

Center Ryan Kalil thinks the new-look line could still operate
effectively in the no-huddle.

"Mentally it's not challenging as much as it is physically,"
Kalil said. "You've got to catch your breath and roll down the
field, keeping making plays."

Delhomme completed 15 of 24 passes for 195 yards Sunday, while
Carolina ran the ball 34 times. It's close to the balance
missing the last two weeks when the Panthers were one-sided with
the run.

Delhomme hinted Tuesday that they want to control time of
possession more against the Dolphins, which might lead them to
want to slow down the offense. Carolina held the ball nearly 3
minutes less than the Falcons.

But history shows putting Delhomme in an environment where's had
success - the 2-minute offense - and letting him throw it some -
but not too much - determines Carolina's fortunes.

Counting the playoffs, Delhomme is 50-7 when he throws 30 or
fewer passes. He's 9-31 when he throws more than 30.

"What makes Jake such a great asset to our team is he's a good
field general," Kalil said. "He's somebody who in the huddle,
outside the huddle, he does a great job coordinating and putting
guys in the right positions. Obviously, in the no-huddle that's
extremely important."

NOTES: Delhomme said he visited Gross in the hospital Monday as
he recovers from surgery. "Typical Jordan fashion, he apologizes
for getting his leg broke," Delhomme said. ... DE Charles
Johnson (pectoral) joined the normal list of players missing
practice, which included RB Jonathan Stewart (Achilles'), FB
Brad Hoover (ankle) and S Charles Godfrey (ankle). DT Damione
Lewis (shoulder) was limited. ... DE Julius Peppers wasn't
listed on the injury report and wasn't wearing a cast in the
locker room after being limited Sunday because of a right hand
injury.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134822-Delhomme-no-guarantee-Panthers-keep-no-huddle</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134822-Delhomme-no-guarantee-Panthers-keep-no-huddle</guid>
				<pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:46:24 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Panthers shuffle line to make up for loss of Gross]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- In all but one game over the past seven
years, Jordan Gross has lined up at tackle as Carolina's
highest-paid and most effective blocker.

Now Jake Delhomme's blind-side protector will watch the rest of
the season while wearing a cast, just when the Panthers were
starting to feel confident with their recent streak of good
play.

Gross was recovering from surgery Monday, a day after breaking
his right ankle when an Atlanta player fell into his leg in the
Panthers' 28-19 victory. The 2008 Pro Bowl pick, who had missed
only one game in his career, is lost for the season.

"He's a leader, a top-10 pick," Delhomme said of the eighth
selection in the 2003 draft. "He was placed at tackle at the
first minicamp and he hasn't left."

Except for one game last season when he was recovering from a
concussion, Gross has been the anchor of the line going back to
Carolina's Super Bowl season in 2003. Now two men face new roles
in trying to replace him: veteran Travelle Wharton and untested
Mackenzy Bernadeau.

When Gross went down in the second quarter Sunday, Wharton moved
from left guard to left tackle, a position where he has 33
career starts. Bernadeau, who has played only as a short-yardage
fullback and on tackle-eligible plays in his two years in the
NFL, moved to Wharton's spot.

The Panthers weren't overly impressive on offense in the second
half, but they held on to beat the Falcons. Now they have little
time to prepare, with only two practices scheduled before
Thursday's game against Miami.

"Everybody came up to me and were telling me it was time to step
up and that we need you here," Bernadeau said. "I knew that."

The Panthers (4-5) were more equipped to deal with offensive
line injuries last season, when they had capable and veteran
backups in Geoff Hangartner, Jeremy Bridges and Frank Omiyale.

But Hangartner signed a lucrative free-agent deal and is the
starting center in Buffalo. Omiyale got big money from Chicago,
where he started at guard until being replaced recently.
Bridges, released in a salary-cap move, is a backup in Arizona.

"Mac Bernadeau is a young kid we like," Delhomme said. "Same
thing happened last year with Frank Omiyale and Hangartner. They
had to step in and they parlayed it into some good contracts for
them. I think this is something Mac will enjoy."

The 6-foot-4, 320-pound Bernadeau was a 2008 seventh-round pick
out of Division II Bentley in Waltham, Mass. He didn't appear in
a game last season.

Now he'll be depended on to open inside holes for running backs
DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. He'll also be counted on
to think and act quickly if the Panthers continue with the
effective no-huddle offense they used against the Falcons.

Bernadeau did open a key hole in Stewart's 45-yard touchdown run
late in the fourth quarter that sealed the victory on Sunday.
Williams, who rushed for 92 yards, thinks the Panthers can
continue their success with a new-look line.

"We see Mac step in all the time. They mix up those pretty good
during the course of the season (in practice) just in case
something like this happens," Williams said. "I think he can
step up and play a great role."

Williams played some with Wharton at left tackle early in his
career when Gross played on the right side. Gross moved to left
tackle last season, earned his first Pro Bowl trip, then cashed
in with a six-year deal that pays him about $30 million in the
first three seasons.

Sunday was the second straight week Carolina lost one of its top
players for the season. Similar to Landon Johnson in replacing
weakside linebacker Thomas Davis, Bernadeau needs to grow up
quickly.

"Jordan Gross, everybody called him 'Franchise,"' receiver
Muhsin Muhammad said. "It's hard to fill those shoes, but we
expect guys to come in and play."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134539-Panthers-shuffle-line-to-make-up-for-loss-of-Gross</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134539-Panthers-shuffle-line-to-make-up-for-loss-of-Gross</guid>
				<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:08:39 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Panthers LT Gross has surgery on broken ankle]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina Panthers left tackle Jordan Gross
is recovering after undergoing surgery on his broken right ankle
Sunday night.

A team official said the surgery went well. The Panthers are
expected to place him on injured reserve later Monday.

The anchor of Carolina's offensive line and the team's best pass
protector was injured when an Atlanta player rolled into his leg
late in the second quarter of the Panthers' 28-19 win Sunday.

The Panthers moved Travelle Wharton to left tackle and inserted
inexperienced Mackenzy Bernadeau in Wharton's old spot at left
guard. The Panthers could sign another offensive lineman to add
depth before Thursday's game against Miami.

Gross has only missed one start in his career.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134446-Panthers-LT-Gross-has-surgery-on-broken-ankle</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134446-Panthers-LT-Gross-has-surgery-on-broken-ankle</guid>
				<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:50:43 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[No-huddling Delhomme, Panthers top Falcons 28-19]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- The Carolina Panthers might have finally
found a way to solve Jake Delhomme's woes: controlled chaos.

A heavy dose of miscues from Matt Ryan and banged-up Atlanta
didn't hurt, either.

The Panthers unleashed a no-huddle offense on Sunday with
Delhomme calling the plays, and it produced two touchdown passes
to Steve Smith, no turnovers and a 28-19 victory over the
Falcons.

"No huddle is controlled chaos," said Smith, who tripled
Carolina's touchdown total by wide receivers coming into the
game. "You've got defense running around and they don't know
what they're doing. The no huddle is really easy and simple."

While Delhomme went turnover-free for the third straight game
following 13 interceptions in his first six, it was a difficult
day for Ryan and the Falcons (5-4). First, they lost running
back Michael Turner to a second-quarter sprained ankle after he
already rushed for 111 yards. Then kicker Jason Elam and Ryan
stymied their late comeback hopes with key fourth-quarter
mistakes.

Ryan, throwing too high much of the day, had two more
interceptions He's at 12, one more than all of his stellar
rookie season.

"I'm young," Ryan said. "I've got a long way to go, a lot of
improving to do and a lot of things to learn."

With Ryan completing only 7 of 19 passes in the first half, the
Panthers (4-5) built a 21-10 halftime lead. Delhomme looked
poised and the Falcons struggled to get the right defensive
personnel on the field.

Delhomme, no longer the NFL leader in interceptions after Jay
Cutler's struggles with Chicago, found Smith on a pair of 4-yard
TDs and was in his comfort zone. Much of Delhomme's best work
over the years has come in the 2-minute offense.

"That is something that we practice a good bit," Delhomme said
of the no-huddle. "I'm extremely comfortable in that situation."

The Panthers' offense wasn't as successful after halftime, and
the game wasn't sealed until Richard Marshall picked off Ryan,
setting up Jonathan Stewart's 45-yard touchdown run with 2:07
left.

Earlier, Elam missed a 34-yard field goal that would have given
Atlanta the lead. It allowed the Panthers to hold on despite
losing the cog of their offensive line, left tackle Jordan
Gross, to a broken right ankle.

"I think we were at a major crossroad in the season being 3-5,"
said receiver Muhsin Muhammad, who had six catches for 91 yards
in his return from a knee injury. "If you look at the playoff
picture, we have as good a chance as anybody else with seven
games left in the season."

The Panthers earned a season split on the Falcons, who fell to
1-4 on the road and will await tests Monday on Turner's right
ankle. He went over 100 yards early in the second quarter, but
rolled his ankle at the end of a 10-yard run, halting a streak
where he had rushed for 428 yards on less than 10 quarters.

Jason Snelling replaced him, finishing with 61 yards and a
touchdown on 18 carries.

"We don't have the explosiveness we had with Michael," Atlanta
coach Mike Smith said. "But I thought Jason, for his first time
back in a couple of weeks, ran the ball hard."

Ryan got the Falcons to 21-19 when he found tight end Justin
Peelle for a 3-yard TD on fourth-and-1. The 2-point conversion
attempt with 13:44 left failed when Chris Gamble tackled
Snelling on a swing pass.

Ryan later converted a third-and-11 from his own 3 with a
13-yard pass to Tony Gonzalez. But the drive stalled and Elam,
hesitated twice before pulling the short field-goal attempt with
6:35 left.

"My timing was kind of a mess from the start," Elam said. "It's
me. I need to take the blame."

The Panthers went three-and-out and Eric Weems returned the
ensuing punt to the Carolina 49. But Ryan threw into double
coverage, ending Atlanta's hopes.

Ryan was 22 of 41 for 224 yards and one touchdown, as the
Falcons were unable to take advantage of Carolina's revamped
defense after linebacker Thomas Davis' season-ending knee injury
last week.

"I don't think there's anything technically wrong with him,"
receiver Michael Jenkins said of Ryan. "We've just got to limit
turnovers and execute better."

DeAngelo Williams (92 yards) and Stewart (82) gave Carolina a
solid running game, but it was the passing game that keyed
Carolina, even after the Panthers had to shuffle their offensive
line.

Gross, the cog of the line, could be lost for the season.
Travelle Wharton moved to left tackle and inexperienced Mackenzy
Bernadeau played in Wharton's old spot at left guard.

NOTES: The Falcons were without LT Sam Baker (ankle) and WR
Brian Finneran (knee). ... Williams played despite being
questionable with a sore left knee. ... The Falcons failed to
sweep Carolina for the first time since 2004.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134246-No-huddling-Delhomme-Panthers-top-Falcons-28-19</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134246-No-huddling-Delhomme-Panthers-top-Falcons-28-19</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:23:40 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
			<item>
				<title><![CDATA[Panthers LT Gross breaks right ankle vs. Falcons]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina left tackle Jordan Gross broke his
right ankle in the Panthers' 28-19 win over Atlanta.

Gross was blocking midway through the second quarter Sunday when
a Falcons player fell into his leg, which bent awkwardly. The
medical staff put a brace on his leg and ankle before he was
carted to the locker room.

Coach John Fox said after the game that doctors told him Gross'
ankle was broken, leaving Carolina without the anchor of its
offensive line indefinitely.

Travelle Wharton moved from left guard to Gross' spot and
Mackenzy Bernadeau replaced Wharton.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134220-Panthers-LT-Gross-breaks-right-ankle-vs-Falcons</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134220-Panthers-LT-Gross-breaks-right-ankle-vs-Falcons</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 21:29:28 GMT</pubDate>
			</item>
		
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				<title><![CDATA[Williams active for Panthers; Falcons short-handed]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina running back DeAngelo Williams was
in the starting lineup against Atlanta despite a sore left knee.

The Falcons were without starting left tackle Sam Baker, No. 2
running back Jerious Norwood and receiver Brian Finneran on
Sunday, while receivers Roddy White and Michael Jenkins were
active.

Williams was questionable after missing two of three practices
last week. Receiver Muhsin Muhammad returned after missing two
games with a knee injury, while fullback Brad Hoover (ankle) was
sidelined again.

Will Svitek started for Baker, while the Falcons got better news
about their receivers. White was questionable with a sore knee,
while Jenkins was added to the injury report Saturday with an
illness.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134191-Williams-active-for-Panthers-Falcons-short-handed</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/134191-Williams-active-for-Panthers-Falcons-short-handed</guid>
				<pubDate>Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:09:36 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Elite RBs, opposite QBs for Falcons, Panthers]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- While some in Atlanta are concerned about
Matt Ryan's recent flurry of interceptions, he's nowhere close
to matching the passing woes in Carolina.

Through eight games, the Panthers have one touchdown catch by a
wide receiver. Yes, Steve Smith is still on the roster.

"I am totally shocked," fellow receiver Muhsin Muhammad said.
"It's amazing. It's befuddling to me. I don't understand it."

With the Falcons (5-3) and Panthers (3-5) bringing two of the
league's elite running backs in Michael Turner and DeAngelo
Williams into Sunday's NFC South contest, the disparities in the
passing game have helped define their opposite seasons.

Sure, Ryan has thrown eight interceptions in the past four
games, but his six touchdowns in that span are one more than
Carolina's Jake Delhomme has mustered all season. With Ryan
steady enough and Turner on a two-game tear, the Falcons remain
in playoff position in the NFC after last week's victory over
Washington.

"Certainly I would like to play a little bit better, but it's a
long season and you're going to have some ups and downs," said
Ryan, who threw a career-high three TDs in a Week 2 win over the
Panthers. "I just have to grind it out, get through it, and
prepare well during the week. All in all, I think we're doing
well."

That's not the case in Carolina, where Delhomme threw 13
interceptions in the first six games, barely kept his job, then
hasn't thrown a pick in two weeks. But in the past two games the
Panthers have looked more like a single wing team, running the
ball 83 times to only 45 passes.

They upset Arizona without completing a pass in the second half.
Delhomme then threw only five first-half passes against New
Orleans last week as Carolina built a 17-3 lead. When the Saints
rallied and Delhomme was forced to throw, the Panthers managed
only three points in the second half in a 30-20 loss.

It left Carolina, the defending division champ, with one more
loss than all of last season.

"We have to almost throw caution to the wind a little bit and
try not to play with as much caution," said Muhammad, expected
to return Sunday after missing two games with a knee injury.

Four-time Pro Bowl receiver Steve Smith, who has caught
Carolina's only TD pass by a receiver, is on pace for the fewest
catches (68) and yards receiving (956) in a non-injury year
since 2002. And the frustration is mounting.

After Smith caught a short pass in the flat last Sunday and was
hit after going out of bounds by Saints safety Darren Sharper,
Smith appeared to direct his anger not at Sharper, but at his
coaches for the conservative play call.

"I'm a volatile guy, obviously," Smith said, sarcastically. "So
was I upset with multiple things."

Asked what could be done to get him the ball more, Smith
replied, "I'm not dipping into that can of chili."

The positive is that minus a couple key fumbles, Williams has
overcome the eight-man defensive fronts to rush for 307 yards in
the past two weeks.

The numbers, though, are short of what Turner has produced.
After being held under 100 yards in four straight games, Turner
rushed for 151 yards in a loss to the Saints and 166 yards and
two scores against the Redskins.

Turner will test Carolina's improved run defense, which lost
starting weakside linebacker Thomas Davis last week to a
season-ending knee injury.

"When he can get his shoulders to stay north and south I think
we're a much better running team," Falcons coach Mike Smith
said. "It was really good to see Mike get back going, running
the ball effectively because at the core that is what we want to
do."

It should also help Ryan, who had one of his best games in his
two pro seasons in the first meeting with Carolina, a 28-20 win
where he completed 21 of 27 passes, including a career-best 13
straight at one point.

The numbers haven't been as good of late. He threw
three-interceptions against the Saints, while left tackle Sam
Baker (ankle) and receiver Brian Finneran (knee) are banged up.
The Falcons are just 1-3 on the road.

"We've thought that Matt has done some really good things even
though his numbers over the past three weeks have not been what
we were accustomed to," Smith said.

Panthers coach John Fox has denied they've watered down the
passing game to prevent more Delhomme turnovers. But the
Panthers have made a habit of calling draw plays on
third-and-long.

"Be it run, be it pass, we've just got to execute," Delhomme
said. "Whatever is called, do what you're supposed to do on that
play."

But with Landon Johnson, filling in for Davis, calling Sunday a
must win to keep their playoff hopes alive, is it time for the
Panthers to finally open up the passing game?

"If someone had told me by the eighth game that we would have a
combined one touchdown by all of the receivers I probably would
have put my whole house on it," Muhammad said. "That's why I
don't gamble."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133708-Elite-RBs-opposite-QBs-for-Falcons-Panthers</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133708-Elite-RBs-opposite-QBs-for-Falcons-Panthers</guid>
				<pubDate>Sat, 14 Nov 2009 05:01:34 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Falcons-Panthers Preview]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By SANTOSH VENKATARAMAN
STATS Senior Writer

The Atlanta Falcons insist Matt Ryan isn't struggling despite
his poor numbers over the last three games. The Carolina
Panthers appear to be happy just to see Jake Delhomme avoiding
more mistakes.

The NFC South rivals meet for the second time this season Sunday
with both clubs facing questions about their quarterbacks.

Atlanta (5-3) is playing the first of two straight games on the
road, where it is 1-3 with two straight losses. Ryan threw five
interceptions in his last two road games.

Ryan, who led the Falcons to 11 wins and a playoff spot as a
rookie last season, had four touchdowns, six interceptions and a
54.5 completion percentage in his last three games.

"Matt has played very well the entire season," coach Mike Smith
said. "I don't think you can judge a one-game stretch, a
two-game stretch, or a three-game stretch in terms of
determining. I think that's talking points for a lot of folks.

"For us, we are working for the next game and making sure we
make corrections on all levels of the football team. I don't
think that contention that Matt is not playing well; I don't
believe that at all. I think Matt's played very, very well."

Ryan was 17 of 24 for 135 yards, one touchdown and one
interception in last Sunday's 31-17 win over Washington.

Delhomme has five touchdowns and an NFL-high 13 interceptions
this year after guiding Carolina (3-5) to the South title in
2008. He didn't thrown an interception the last two games, but
coach John Fox has been forced to defend the passing game for
not throwing downfield more.

Delhomme passed for 201 yards and no touchdowns in a 30-20 loss
at New Orleans last Sunday.

"I'm confident," Fox said, "that we can get better."

Pro Bowl receiver Steve Smith has one touchdown reception this
season and is tied for 34th in the league with 34 catches.

"We need to get more dangerous on offense," left tackle Jordan
Gross said. "It's kind of the same old song. We need to do
better in the passing game."

Both teams are taking the pressure off their quarterbacks by
running the ball well. Michael Turner gained 166 yards and
scored two touchdowns last week for Atlanta, six days after he
gained 150 yards on 20 carries in a 35-27 loss at New Orleans.

Turner has scored in seven straight games and leads the NFC with
10 rushing touchdowns.

The Falcons' beleaguered run defense may be tasked with slowing
down a resurgent DeAngelo Williams, who posted an NFL-high 548
rushing yards over the last four weeks. Atlanta ranks 24th
against the run, and Williams had 79 yards on 16 carries in a
28-20 road defeat to the Falcons on Sept. 20.

Williams, though, is questionable after sitting out practice
Friday for the second time in three days.

The Falcons' defense features the NFL's leading tackler in
middle linebacker Curtis Lofton with 84, but Atlanta yielded 397
yards on the ground in the last three games.

Delhomme had 10 touchdowns and three interceptions in his last
seven games against the Falcons, going 25 for 41 for 308 yards
and one TD and three interceptions in the September meeting.

Ryan also turned in one of his most efficient performances in
that game, completing 21 of 27 passes for three touchdowns, one
interception and 220 yards.

Atlanta won six of its last nine games in Charlotte, falling
24-9 in last year's visit as Delhomme threw for 294 yards, two
scores and no interceptions.

"This next game is at their place, so, it's going to be a
challenge," Atlanta tight end Justin Peelle said. "They're
playing really well right now."

Carolina will play the rest of the season without weakside
linebacker Thomas Davis, who suffered a torn anterior cruciate
ligament in his right knee last Sunday. Davis had been
productive to the point that teammates believed he could reach
his first Pro Bowl.

"He's played very well. I feel bad for the young man because
he's put a lot into it," Fox said. "He was playing at a high
level. It's unfortunate, and I feel bad for him and his family."]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/132978-Falcons-Panthers-Preview</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/132978-Falcons-Panthers-Preview</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:52:10 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers RB Williams questionable with knee injury]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- Carolina running back DeAngelo Williams is
questionable for the Panthers' game against Atlanta with a sore
left knee.

Williams sat out practice Friday for the second time in three
days. He was limited in Thursday's workout.

William ranks fifth in the NFL with 768 yards rushing, including
307 in the past two games.

Fellow running back Jonathan Stewart (Achilles' tendon),
receiver Muhsin Muhammad (knee), tight end Dante Rosario (knee)
and fullback Tony Fiammetta (concussion) are all listed as
questionable for Sunday's game. But all four players practiced
Friday.

Fullback Brad Hoover and safety Charles Godfrey are doubtful and
haven't practiced all week because of ankle injuries.

Defensive end Julius Peppers is probable with a hand injury.]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133443-Panthers-RB-Williams-questionable-with-knee-injury</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133443-Panthers-RB-Williams-questionable-with-knee-injury</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 17:52:36 GMT</pubDate>
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				<title><![CDATA[Panthers improvise in cramped indoor practices]]></title>
				<description><![CDATA[By MIKE CRANSTON
AP Sports Writer

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- The Carolina Panthers are trying to fix a
dysfunctional passing game and replace a key defensive player as
they hold out hope of salvaging their season.

Practicing on a cramped field with no football lines and a low
ceiling while toddlers run around nearby and U2 blares from the
speakers above isn't the most ideal place to do it.

With the remnants of Hurricane Ida stubbornly hovering over
Charlotte and with the Panthers one of only 10 NFL teams without
an indoor practice facility, the team's workplace the last two
days has been a small artificial turf field at a nearby indoor
sports complex.

"For obvious reasons, you're limited," coach John Fox said
Thursday. "You can't punt the ball. You can't throw deep
passes."

Carolina's opponent Sunday, Atlanta, has been hit with the same
storm that dumped about four inches of rain on both cities. But
the Falcons are one of 22 teams with an indoor facility, ranging
from bubbles to airplane hangar-like buildings.

"You're probably trying to take me down a path I'm not going to
go," Fox said when asked about the disadvantage his team faces.
"I'm kind of (staying) in my lane."

A lack of an indoor facility usually isn't an issue here, where
the sun shines more than 60 percent of the time and there's only
an average of only 43 inches of rain a year.

The Panthers have three full outdoor practice fields next to
their stadium, and have used the lone artificial turf field for
a couple workouts in the rain earlier this season. The trouble
this time has been the extent of the rain and the high winds.
Gusts were over 20 mph on Thursday.

"I think you get more production going inside and being able to
focus than out there with the wind flying, the rain and
everything," receiver Muhsin Muhammad said. "You can't do much
out there. You can't throw the ball down the field in that
situation."

Jake Delhomme, who has struggled all season, couldn't throw the
ball deep the past two days at the Charlotte Sports Center,
either. The facility, a 10-minute drive from Bank of America
Stadium, has a field that's 72 yards long and 32 yards wide. An
NFL field is 120 yards long and 53 yards wide.

The width forced the Panthers to run plays sideways, with the
equipment staff putting tape where the hash marks should be.
Cones marked a virtual sideline.

"It's somewhat like an NFL field," Fox said.

Thursday's practice included curious onlookers as they climbed
off nearby exercise bikes. Left tackle Jordan Gross paused for a
picture with a child as Pearl Jam played from above, hardly the
normal secret atmosphere of an NFL practice.

The lack of space has given some banged-up players more time to
heal. Running back DeAngelo Williams practiced on a limited
basis after sitting out Wednesday with a sore left knee. But
there was no room for his signature sprint the length of the
field on each run.

Defensive end Julius Peppers practiced in full despite a hand
injury. Landon Johnson, expected to start at weakside linebacker
after Thomas Davis' season-ending knee injury, got his work in,
too.

But with a low ceiling, punter Jason Baker mostly stood around,
unable to work on what is normally the busiest day of the week
for special teams. Kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd was idle, too.

"If it was Week 2 or something I would probably say I don't
really need that," Baker said of the rest. "But at this time of
the season I'm good with it."

Kicker John Kasay did attempt some field goals during a special
teams drill by kicking into a net that surrounded the field.

Other teams in colder areas (Cincinnati) and hotter (Arizona and
Dallas after the Cowboys' bubble recently collapsed) don't have
indoor facilities, so the Panthers are hardly at the front of
the complaint line.

Players mostly shrugged off the schedule change, with linebacker
Jon Beason joking that he'd like a bubble - but at their
training camp site in steamy Spartanburg, S.C.

"It's hot, it's 90 degrees in Spartanburg," Beason said. "Who
cares about rain and hurricanes and stuff?"]]></description>
				<category><![CDATA[nfl]]></category>
				<link>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133316-Panthers-improvise-in-cramped-indoor-practices</link>
				<guid>http://areyouwatchingthis.com/nfl/news/133316-Panthers-improvise-in-cramped-indoor-practices</guid>
				<pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:07:22 GMT</pubDate>
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