NFL notebook: Buffalo's new-look offensive line braces for Rams
BY Associated Press
Saturday, December 08, 2012
12/08/12 at 5:28 AM
Protecting quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick could be an issue on Sunday when the Buffalo Bills (5-7) host St. Louis' strong pass rush.
Buffalo's offensive line is in patchwork mode after injuries to center Eric Wood and tackle Chris Hairston. In fact, two players - Sam Young and David Snow - will make their first NFL career starts vs. the Rams (5-6-1).
"It's insane how many guys we lose every year," said Kraig Urbik, who will start at center or right guard. "It's not like guys are just wearing down. These are actual, physical injuries."
The Rams have the NFL's fourth-best sack total (34), and those numbers might spike Sunday. St. Louis is paced by former first-round picks Robert Quinn and Chris Long, who have registered 8 1/2 and seven sacks, respectively.
QB Vick, RB McCoy still out for Eagles: Quarterback Michael Vick and running back LeSean McCoy will not play Sunday, when the Philadelphia Eagles meet the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-6).
In an expected announcement, Eagles athletic trainer Rick Burkholder said Friday that neither has been cleared to return to football activity after suffering concussions last month.
Tebow will travel with Jets: Tim Tebow is heading home - possibly as only a sideline spectator.
It will be a game-time decision as to whether the New York Jets' backup quarterback plays in the team's game in his hometown of Jacksonville against the Jaguars on Sunday.
Tebow, healing from two broken ribs, will fly with the team Saturday, and head coach Rex Ryan and the team doctors will determine before the game if he will play. He is listed as questionable.
Broncos' Miller fined $25K: Denver Broncos defensive end Von Miller was fined $25,000 by the NFL on Friday for his hit below the knee of Tampa Bay quarterback Josh Freeman last week.
Miller was penalized for roughing the passer in the second quarter of the Broncos' 31-23 win over the Buccaneers last Sunday. Miller was fined $21,000 last month for a similar infraction against Carolina quarterback Cam Newton.
