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Playmaker Q&A with Jonathan Vilma RE: Jerome Bettis's comments about the Saints quitting; discusses Halloween home game against the Steelers and more...

• Interview conducted by Dewey Hammond, Playmaker Correspondent
• Written by Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

JEROME BETTIS BRINGS MORE TENSION TO SUNDAY’S SAINTS V. STEELERS GAME; LABELS SAINTS AS QUITTERS

Current NBC Commentator and former Steeler, Jerome Bettis, on his “Inside the NFL” column at SI.com believes that the New Orleans Saints “mailed it in” after winning the Super Bowl last year. According to Bettis, the Saints’ ineffective offensive play, misfires on small feats like protecting the football and failing to establish the running game are reasons why the Saints are teetering between wins and losses every week.

“Some might say the rest of the league has finally figured out how to beat the [Saints] potent offense but I think it’s just bad play…The defense could be bolstered by an offensive resurgence,” stated Bettis.

Quarterback, Drew Brees, has thrown 7 seven interceptions in the Saints’ two losses to the Cardinals and Browns. However, blaming Brees will not help the Saints get back on track. A number of factors remain in question as the Saints prepare for the Steelers this Sunday. Will a healthy Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas help the Saints’ offensive get its mojo back? Will the Saints defense follow Miami’s lead to hold Steelers running back, Rashard Mendenhall to minimal yards per carry? Will Brees come out firing against James Harrison and the Steeler’s secondary? Questions---only to be answered this Sunday in primetime. 

BETTIS WHO? JONATHAN VILMA RESPONDS TO BETTIS, STEELER’S GAME AND MORE…

Tuesday, October 26, 2010: PlaymakerMobile.com grabbed a few minutes with middle line backer and Saints’ defensive leader, Jonathan Vilma, to ask about Jerome Bettis’s comments and to get his insights about the upcoming game against the Steelers.

JONATHAN VILMA TOOK THE HIGH-ROAD in response to Jerome Bettis’s comments about the Saints’  imperfect play, six weeks into the season.

“I’m not even going to get into it with commentators; that would be pointless. We didn’t ‘check it in’ in training or whatever he said, we know it’s just about improving.”

Vilma’s least worry is Jerome Bettis, who hasn’t been in the league since 2006 and is probably looking to stir the pot, knowing his former team is about to play the defending World Champs. Right now, Jonathan Vilma and the Saints must worry about not losing a third game. Vilma’s professionalism and short response to Bettis’s comments demonstrates that the Saints remain determined to get the winning train back-on-track.

Q&A WITH VILMA ON PREPARING FOR THE STEELERS: 

• Playmaker: What is the Saints’ mindset going into Sunday’s game now that you know Ben Roethlisberger is back and ready to play in his third straight game this season?

• Vilma: Our mindset against the Steelers is similar to every team we face. It’s about winning the game, not looking at the opponent but looking at ourselves; where we can get better and improve each week. It’s about playing our best brand of football on Sundays. We feel we can beat any team.

• Playmaker: As mentioned before, it’s Ben Roethlisberger’s third week back. In preparation for the game do you focus on the past two weeks of play and/or look at film from last year? How do you approach breaking down the Steeler’s offense from a film perspective?

• Vilma: Well you look at the last two weeks and review what Ben’s done; take the prior two weeks and see what they’ve accomplished conceptually and go from there. They may have a couple wrinkles in their game because this is only Ben’s third game this season. The Steelers may add a few plays; take out a few plays, so we just have to look at the big picture. We need to see what they did. If they did well the last two weeks and what they didn’t do well; see what plays they left off that were implemented in prior weeks and just base our game plan off that.

• Playmaker: So you will not watch game film from last year because it was a different roster or because it took place too long ago?

• Vilma: We don’t have to go into last year because we have 6 weeks of film, including the two games with Ben.

• Playmaker: Approaching the halfway-mark, how many seasons do you go back when you’re researching your opponents on film? What time frame do you use to benchmark where you start with film?

• Vilma: We like to watch the last 4 or 5 previous games. We like to break down the last 4 games and then the 5^th game I sometimes like to take a look at to see if they’re planning to change anything. Usually, you get a good feel for a team watching their first 4 prior weeks of film and breaking it down.

• Playmaker: Ben is obviously very good at spreading the ball around; he has a lot of talented wide receivers, even though they struggled in the running game against Miami. Seeing that, does it make you salivate as a defense knowing that’s one less person in the box you have to worry about?

• Vilma: I don’t know if they can’t run the ball per say. Watching film, you look at the fact they only got 2 yards a carry against Miami but when they run the ball they are very capable of doing it, so it’s hard to say that they’re struggling to run the ball. I think because Ben’s back they want to open up the passing game more but they are capable of running the ball when then need to.

• Playmaker: Do you have any friends that play for the Steelers?

• Vilma:  No.

LEARNING FROM DISAPPOINTMENT:

• Playmaker: You’re in the locker room after the loss against the Browns, what do you tell your teammates right then and there or do you save it for Tuesday?

• Vilma: When we lost to the Browns it was really hard to say anything. It was a tough loss; just have to stay positive.  Last year we lost 3 straight games. Everybody was writing us off going into the playoffs and nobody thought we’d win it. You know it’s just tough times that you have to battle through and we’ll get through it.

• Playmaker: Losing that perfect record to the Cowboys last year hurt, but the Saints refocused. How does that experience better manage today’s losses and disappointments? Did that experience of winning the Super Bowl change your approach of losing today?

• Vilma: No, it doesn’t change the way we approach it. Losing sucks. You saw me after the Dallas game, losing sucks; I hate it. Football’s not fun when you lose. You never lose that sour taste; you never lose that competitive edge---that feeling of losing that you hate so much is alive, so you try to deal with it as best as you can. Whether it’s coming out on the practice field and practicing hard and watching more film or sometimes it’s just taking a step back and relaxing a little bit more to not be so wired. Whatever you have to do, deal with it and move on because that’s the biggest thing, being able to move on. Let these losses go so that when the next Sunday comes around you’ll be ready to play.

RELAXATION:

• Playmaker: A common problem with rookies and second year guys is that they sometimes expend unnecessary energy. As a veteran you’re smart and know the importance of resting your body. How does playing 4 or 5 primetime games, especially this being a night game, affect the way you treat your relaxation activities up to game time? What knowledge do you impart on the rookies to adjust to the different late-game schedule?

• Vilma: I tell them that it’s about being ready mentally. It’s about letting the rookies know that you’ve got to be mentally ready when the time comes. Some guys are different. Some guys like to listen to music, watch TV, sleep all day or watch game film and keep grinding until game time. Whatever it is to keep you mentally ready is a good thing.  Physically, we should be ready. Coach Payton does a good job of keeping us fresh leading up to the game. It’s all about finding that groove to be ready mentally.

ON THE LOOK OUT:

• Playmaker: Any guys on the Steelers that you’re keeping an eye on that could make things happen?

• Vilma:  No one in particular yet. It’s early in the week, haven’t watched that much film. Everyone knows about Ben Roethlisberger, Mendenhall, Hines Ward and Heath Miller.

• Playmaker: On the Steelers’ defensive side, Aaron Smith, underrated, tore his triceps and is out for the season. Losing a pass rusher of that caliber, what does it do to the defense mentally and strategically?

• Vilma: Hopefully it benefits us, where it allows them to just rush 4 guys and create pressure that way---as if they’re blitzing. They may have to send an extra guy; they may use some man or fire zone. Drew is great at reading those different coverages, so Aaron Smith not playing is an advantage for us.

• Playmaker: Any final words for Saints or Steelers’ fans?

• Vilma: Tune in Sunday; it’s going to be a good one.

****

WHAT TO EXPECT ON HALLOWEEN; SAINTS V. STEELERS:

The Saints (4-3) will play with a vengeance against the Steelers (5-1) on Halloween night. The Saints are looking to avoid the .500 mark and a second straight loss at home. Even though the Saints’ defense has been good at stopping the run, Rashard Mendenhall is a beast and is a force to be respected despite having a shoulder ailment. If the Saints can get their two main running backs healthy by Sunday, look out, as their offense will be able to run a plethora of screen plays: together with other calls meant to create mix and matches and one-on-one coverage for wide receiver Marques Colston. With a dynamic running game and excellent protection from the Saints’ offensive line, Drew Brees shouldn’t be afraid to air it out, just as long as he doesn’t throw in Troy Polamalu’s direction.

The Steelers come into Sunday’s game with a chip on their shoulder as well. Big Ben is still searching for redemption in only his third game back and a focused James Harrison (who is still steaming from being fined $75,000) is vying to defeat the defending World Champs in order to make a statement. The X factor will be the Saints’ defense, lead by Jonathan Vilma, who must stop the run and keep Big Ben on the sidelines to limit his overall effectiveness. Stay tuned.

Celtics defeat Miami Heat on opening day; lose to Cavs on Wednesday, Lions coach doesn't respect McNabb, Jonathan Vilma and PAC donate over $600,000 to lawmakers and more...

          Louis Ceaser Iv, Playmaker Intern

• RAJON RONDO: Round 1 goes to the Boston Celtics. RR, who played without his signature upside down headband due to the NBA's new rules, led the C's to an 88-80 victory over the Miami Heat on opening day at the Garden. Rondo recorded 4 points, 2 steals 17 assists, and 5 rebounds in the game. LA Times reports that the Celtics V. Heat opening game ranked as "the most-watched regular-season NBA game in cable history." TNT averaged between 5.4 to 7.4 million viewers. *UPDATE: Boston played Lebron's former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, on Wednesday, losing 95-87. The C's play the NY Knicks on Friday; they move to (1-1), overall.

• YAO MING: According to Rotoworld.com, the Rocket's center almost recorded a double-double against the defending World Champion, Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Yao accounted for 9 points, 11 rebounds, 2 blocks in only 24 minutes of playing time. *UPDATE: Yao Ming sat out Wednesday's game against the Golden State Warriors. The Rockets lost a close one to the Warriors, 132-128, as Monta Ellis scored 46 points. Houston plays the Denver Nuggets on Saturday.

• BRANDON JENNINGS: Milwaukee's star PG scored a double-double as the Bucks lost their season-opener to New Orleans Hornets, 95-91. Jennings recorded 15 points, 10 assists, two 3-pointers, and 1 steal. The Bucks play the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.

• STEVE NASH: The PHX Sun's PG scored 26 points, including 6 assists, 1 steal, 4 rebounds, in 35 minutes of PT, as the Suns lost to the Portland Trailblazers 106-92 , opening day. The Suns play another tough game against the Jazz, Thursday in Utah.

• GREG ODEN: According to Jeff Rabjohns of IndyStar.com, Greg Oden expects to become a restricted free agent soon. Oden's agent, Mike Conley Sr., recently stated that it's unlikely his client will sign an extension by Monday's deadline. Oden is only 22, and is set to make about $6.8 million this season. The #1 pick of 2007, has been hampered by knee injuries. GO has yet to play this season, as no timeline for his return has been set.

• JONATHAN VILMA: The NFL's PAC (Player Action Committee) "recently donated over $600,000 in its rookie election cycle, building goodwill among lawmakers that could come in handy in the even of a lockout next season." Records show that Jonathan Vilma, Peyton Manning, Brett Favre, Julius Peppers and Jason Taylor, made their own private donations as well. 

• DONOVAN MCNABB: Dave Birkett of Freep.com writes that Detroit Lions coach, Jim Schwartz is still wary of McNabb's big-play ability. The Redskins (4-3) play the Lions (1-5), this Sunday. 

• OSI UMENYIORA: The NY Giants are on a bye week, which gives the G-Men's star playmaker, OU, the chance to rest his sore knees and hip. "I need it [rest], no question about it," mentioned Umenyiora; via Tony Rock of Newsday.

• RAY LEWIS: Mike Vensel of Virtual Vensanity recently wrote that Ray Lewis is currently the NFL's 5th best defender. Agree or disagree? Click here to read more.

• MICHAEL ROBINSON: The Seattle Seahawks recently re-acquired fullback Quinton Ganther due to the uncertainty of Michael Robinson's hamstring injury. We'll keep you updated about M-Rob's status. 

Playmaker Roundup: 2010-11 NBA Season opens tomorrow; Rajon Rondo and the C's play Miami Heat in prime time, Saints fall to the Browns, Ray Lewis has great game against the Bills and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• RAJON RONDO: Evans Clincy of NESN.com writes that Rajon Rondo expects his new teammates, centers, Shaquille O'Neal and Jermaine O'Neal to excel this season. The Boston Celtic's PG has transformed into a teacher on the court---helping his teammates speed up the learning curve of digesting River's playbook. The C's open up the NBA season against the new-look Miami Heat---must-see TV. Boston is still without Kendrick Perkins, who is nursing a torn ACL. 

• YAO MING: Lisa Rotter of SbNation.com writes that Rocket's coach Rick Adelman will start his center, Yao Ming, in tomorrow's NBA opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. Yao will play for only 6 minutes before Aldeman determines if he'll sit him for the remainder of the game. The Rockets coaching staff have already determined that Yao will not play in the Rocket's second game against the Golden State Warriors.

• STEVE NASH: The PHX PG is not loving his team right now. Nash told AOL FanHouse that he wouldn't bet on the Suns making the playoffs. Ouch. The Suns were 2-6 during pre-season play; they open up the NBA season against the Portland Trailblazers, tomorrow. 

• GREG ODEN: The Portland Trailblazers just signed free agent-center, Fabricio Oberto as a replacement for the injured Greg Oden. Oberto, 35, played for the Wizards last year. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: BND.com reports that the Milwaukee Bucks exercised the third-year option on their star PG. Terms of the option were not disclosed. Jennings and the Bucks open up against the Hornets on Wednesday. 

• OSI UMENYIORA: Ralph Vacchiano of The NY Daily News writes an excellent piece about the NY Giants defense and Osi's resurgence as the leading tackler of the NFC. Umenyiora is an early favorite for the "NFC Defensive Player of the Year." The Giants play the Dallas Cowboys in MNF. Click here to read the article. 

• JONATHAN VILMA: The New Orleans Saints lost to the Cleveland Browns? Yup. The Browns defeated the Saints, 30-17 on Sunday. The Saints' offense was less than spectacular; QB Drew Brees alone threw 4 INTS and was sacked 3 times.  SI.com wrote that Brees must get back on track to relieve the Saints' defense. Jonathan Vilma recorded 5 assisted tackles. Vilma and the Saints remain hopeful and look forward to bouncing back against the Steelers next Sunday; Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas should be ready to go.  Click here to watch highlights from the Saints v. Browns game. 

• DONOVAN MCNABB: DM5 completed 17 out of 32 pass attempts and threw for 200 yards; 1 TD and was sacked once with 1 INT in yesterday's win against the Chicago Bears. Teammate, CB, DeAngelo Hall went off, tying an NFL record with 4 INTS as the Redskins beat Chi-town 17-14. 

• RAY LEWIS: RL52 was a beast in yesterday's win over the Bills. Lewis recorded a stunning 14 solo tackles and 1 assisted tackle as the Ravens won in OT, 37-34. 

 

Playmaker Roundup: Rajon Rondo shrugs off David Stern's warning of impending NBA lockout, Brandon Jennings' Black Ice Shoes by Under Armour debut Saturday, Donovan McNabb to have homecoming this Sunday in Chicago and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• RAJON RONDO: Mike Petraglia of WEEI Sports blog writes that Rajon Rondo did not care much about David Stern's recent comments about the NBA lockout. The Commissioner wants to cut player salaries by 1/3rd to save between $750 million - $800 million. "I'm preparing for like there this is one [lockout]. I'm saving a lot of money this year. I'm saving a lot on my car insurance too, Geico," mentioned Rondo with a smirk. RR can afford to be nonchalant about the possible lockout because he's guaranteed over $9 million this season.

• YAO MING: The Rocket's center is expected to play in today's final pre-season game against the Dallas Mavericks. 

• GREG ODEN: "Broken, not beaten, Oden vows to return strong" via Marc Spears of Yahoo!Sports. Click here to read the article. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: The wait is over---Young Buck's "Black Ice" kicks by Under Armour hits store shelves tomorrow, October 23, 2010. Support Jennings and cop a pair of the Fly, Blur, Lite or Black Ice. Check out pics of the shoes here.

• DONOVAN MCNABB: Jason Reid of The Washington Post writes that the Redskin's game against the Bears will be a homecoming for McNabb and Coach Shanahan who both originate from the Chi-town. DM5 played QB at Mount Carmel High School, which is just 5 miles from Soldier Field. "As a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, McNabb played at Soldier Field five times, going 4-1 against the Bears."

• JONATHAN VILMA: Read Jonathan Vilma's Journal about the Saints win over the Tampa Bay Bucs. This Sunday, JV and Company host Rookie QB, Colt McCoy and the Cleveland Browns. 

• OSI UMENYIORA: Thomas George of FanHouse titles his story "More Focused, Determined Osi Umenyiora Lets His Play Do the Talking." Click here to read the article.

• HELIO CASTRONEVES: Marshall Pruett of SPEEDTV writes that Castroneves accidently crashed into the wall at turn 11 during practice at Surfer's Paradise. Helio was reported to be OK but a little embarrassed about the crash.

Playmaker Roundup: Donovan McNabb and Redskins unable to beat Manning and Colts, Osi Umenyiora continues his streak against Detroit, Jonathan Vilma and Saints put hurt on the Bucs and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• DONOVAN MCNABB: DM5 and the Washington Redskins could not overcome the three-point deficit late in the game, losing to the Colts, 27-24 at home Sunday night. McNabb finished the game 29 of 45 for 246 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. The Redskins drop to 3-3 for the season.

• OSI UMENYIORA: Giants' teammates are calling Umenyiora Superman; he has amassed seven sacks and six forced fumbles in a three-game span. QB, Drew Stanton and the Detroit Lions never stood a chance against the NY defense, as the G-man won 28-20. The Giants are now 4-2 and are in a tie for first place in the NFC East.

• JONATHAN VILMA: JV was pretty quiet in the Saints' torching of the Tampa Bay Bucs. Vilma recorded one assisted tackle, his lowest of the season.  Nonetheless, Dew Brees threw for over three touchdowns and RB Ivory rushed for 158 yards; the Saints beat the Bucs 31-6.

• RAY LEWIS: The Baltimore Ravens lost to the Patriots in OT, 23-20. Lewis is already looking at the next game, however, stating that it's "going to be rough for the Buffalo [Bills]."

• BRANDON JENNINGS: Young Buck's Under Amour Shoes "Black-Ice" edition coming to a store near you, October 23rd. Click here to see Jennings' newest shoe commercial.

• STEVE NASH: Throwback---Steve Nash and 50 cent's infomercial for Vitamin Water equals LOL. Meanwhile, Toronto fans booed the heck out of former Raptor's player, Hedo Turkoglu, who now plays for the PHX Suns; Hedo shrugged off the criticism.  The Raptors beat the Suns, 121-100, Sunday. 

• GREG ODEN: Elliott Pohnl of Bleacher Report writes that the Portland Trailblazers have yet to offer Oden a contract extension, while Kevin Durant and Al Horford of the 2007 draft class have accepted extensions. Oden becomes a restricted free agent November 1st if no deal is completed with Portland. 

• YAO MING: Fresh off their two pre-season wins overseas, the Rockets are back home.  Rocket's players were thankful to represent the NBA in Asia; many now have a new found appreciation for Yao's influence and rock-star status overseas. 

• RAJON RONDO: Frances White writes that Rajon Rondo is making the case as an elite PG for the Boston Celtics. Click here to read his article.

Playmaker Roundup: Greg Oden is still an All-Star, Rajon Rondo stars in NBA 2K11, Donovan McNabb downplays upcoming game against Manning's Colts and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• GREG ODEN: According to Jojo Doria of Latest Sports Buzz, Greg Oden still expects to become an NBA All-Star and can't wait to prove the haters wrong. Trail Blazer fans are still optimistic about Oden, however, some are upset that their team did not select Kevin Durant. In other news, Oden's teammate and veteran journeyman, Marcus Camby, mentioned that he might retire after his two-year contract expires in 2012. Camby is Oden's biggest supporter and mentors him anytime advice is needed. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: YB and his Bucks expect their house to rock this season. Jennings mentioned to Charles Gardner of the Journal Sentinel that he wants a packed house and 100% fan participation whenever the Bucks play at home. Sellout crowds of 18,717 attended Game 3, 4, 6 during the playoffs last year. Milwaukee will host their first home game against the Bobcats on October 30th.

• YAO MING: Yao Ming is ballin'---in RMB that is. Yao made the 2010 Hurun Rich List with a recorded wealth of over $1 Billion Chinese yuan. 

• RAJON RONDO: RR, Derrick Rose, Russel Westbrook and other notable NBA ballers relive Michael Jordan's greatest moments in NBA 2K11's newest commercial. By the way this game is amazing! 

• STEVE NASH: Vince Marotta of Fanster.com questions if Steve Nash will be able to win his third MVP award this year.

• LOLO JONES: Check out photos of beautiful Lolo Jones and other professional female athletes who attended the Women's Sports Foundation's 31st Annual Salute to Women in Sports gala on Tuesday. 

• JONATHAN VILMA: Click here to watch video highlights from the Saints vs. Cardinals game.

• OSI UMENYIORA: OU did not participate in today's practice due to soreness in his knees. We'll continue to keep you updated on Umenyiora's progress. 

• DONOVAN MCNABB: DM5 continues to downplay his key match-ups with other elite quarterbacks this season---choosing to focus on team rather than self. McNabb and the Redskins are preparing to play against Peyton Manning and the Colts this Sunday night in a much anticipated match-up. Both the Redskins and Colts have a 3-2 record. 

Playmaker Roundup: Osi Umenyiora records second-straight 2+ sack performance Sunday, Donovan McNabb and the Redskins escape Green Bay, Brandon Jennings scores 18 points against the Bobcats in pre-season and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• OSI UMENYIORA: Rotoworld reports that Osi Umenyiora recorded his second straight 2+ sack performance. OU had 3 tackles, 2 sacks and a pass deflection as the Giants beat the Texans, 34-10.
  
  
• DONOVAN MCNABB: David Elfin of FanHouse writes that Donovan McNabb successfully rallied the Redskins past the Packers with veteran leadership. McNabb finished with 26 of 49 for 357 yards of offense. The Redskins won a close one against Green Bay 16-13 to move to 3-2 overall; first place in their division. 

• JONATHAN VILMA: JV was super-active in Game 5 against the Arizona Cardinals. Vilma had 5 solo tackles and sacked Rookie QB Max Hall; his first sack of the season. Jonathan also assisted on two more tackles to give him 7 total. However, the Saints lost to the Cardinals, 30-20. The Saints are on a 2-game losing streak. 

• RAY LEWIS: RL52 recorded 6 tackles in Baltimore's onslaught of Denver yesterday. The Ravens beat the Broncos, 31-17. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: The Milwaukee Bucks beat Michael Jordan's Charlotte Bobcats in pre-season, 86-78 yesterday. Jennings had 18 points, 6 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists. The Bucks play the Washington Wizards on Thursday. 

• STEVE NASH: Mitch Lawrence of the NY Daily News reports that it was a hard decision for Amare Stoudemire to leave Steve Nash and the PHX Suns. Stoudemire will certainly miss receiving passes from Nash who is one of the top PG's in the NBA today. But hey, if someone guaranteed me $100 million dollars I would leave for NY too. 

• YAO MING: Majed Kassis of Bleacher Report questions if the Houston Rockets will make the playoffs now with Yao Ming back and healthy. Kassis thinks they have a pretty good chance with their current roster which includes Aaron Brooks, Kevin Martin and Shane Battier, Luis Scola and Yao Ming. 

• LOLO JONES: Throwback video---Watch a short clip from PBS titled "The Lolo Jones Story." Click here to view.

Playmaker Roundup: Donovan McNabb and Redskins beat Eagles, Osi Umenyiora and Giants' defense overpower the Chicago Bears, Yao Ming is ready for NBA pre-season debut on Tuesday and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• DONOVAN MCNABB: DM5 returned to the city that he once played 11 seasons in---Philadelphia, Pennsyvania. In front of 69,144 at Lincoln Financial Field, McNabb and the Eagles grabbed the 'W' to return to 2-2 over the Michael Vick-less Eagles. Eagles' fans chose not to boo McNabb during the player introductions, instead giving him a standing ovation before the game---a touch of class unexpected. McNabb passed for 125 yards, including a 31 yard TD pass to TE, Chris Cooley. McNabb maintained his professionalism during the post-game interview but mentioned that the Eagles' organization made a mistake by trading him prematurely.  The Redskins play the Eagles again on November 15th. Click here to see video of Donovan McNabb's introduction.

• OSI UMENYIORA: OU and the Giants' defense swarmed the Chicago offense all night, as New York beat Chicago Sunday night, 17-3. The Giants' D recored a mind-boggling 10 sacks; Umenyiora had 3 of those sacks making him the team leader with four sacks for the season thus far. 

• JONATHAN VILMA: The New Orleans Saints escaped a close one against the North Carolina Panthers, winning 16 to 14 on Sunday. "It wasn't perfect but it's a good win," mentioned Coach Sean Payton. 

• RAY LEWIS: QB Joe Flacco threw a nice pass to the corner of the end zone to hit WR TJ Houshmandzadeh to beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, 17-14. Ray Lewis halted any sings of a Steelers comeback late in the fourth by picking off back-up QB Charlie Batch's pass. The Raves improved to 3-1, overall. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: Throwback vid---Young Buck shows NBA Fit how he stays in shape during the NBA off season. 

• YAO MING: The Rocket's center expects to play in Tuesday's pre-season opener against the Orlando Magic in Hidalgo, Texas.

• GREG ODEN: The Portland Trailblazer's center doesn't seem to think he's a "bust" just yet. "I've never really had enough time to play and actually improve...But I've prepared myself all summer to be an All Star..." Kurt Helin of Pro Basketball Talk thinks it's too early to call Greg Oden the b-word; I agree.

• STEVE NASH: Matt Janning, a 6-foot-5 guard from Northeastern University is the likely candidate and (fan favorite) to land the back-up guard position on the PHX Suns. Janning is slated to be a great combo-guard; he's put in two impressive seasons in the NBA's Development League. 

• HELIO CASTRONEVES: Team Penske's Brazilian driver finished 5th at the IZOD IRL 300 over the weekend. 

Saints vs Panthers: Q&A with Jonathan Vilma

Q&A with Saints linebacker Jon Vilma. Interview by Dewey Hammond.

Q: Talk about your first loss of the season.

A: It was a tough loss, but the Falcons are a good team, they get paid just like we do. I didn’t feel like we should’ve lost the game, but it is what it is and we’ve got to regroup. It’s a long season.

Q: What do you say to the kicker in the locker room after he misses a game-winning FG attempt?

A: There is really not much to approach him on. It’s not like he tried to miss the kick. I’m sure there were plays were I didn’t play as well as I would’ve liked. I’m sure I missed a tackle, missed a play here or there, and it’s no different with a kicker. Unfortunately with his position it’s all the glory or all the criticism. That time he did miss it, and in the locker room you’ve got to pick him up. He is our teammate we’re going to support our teammates 100 percent. It’s unfortunate that he missed that kick, but I’m sure he’ll get it the next time.

Q: What do you expect from the Carolina Panthers (0-3) this weekend?

A: I expect another dog fight. They have two very good running backs in DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. They’re going to try to run the ball a lot, not put their rookie quarterback in tough situations. It’s going to be another close game, just like all division games. They’re always close. They’re always tough. It’s going to come down to who makes the play here or there, who makes the most plays at the end of the game.

Q: As a rookie QB you know Jimmy Clausen will make mistakes. How will you capitalize?

A: It’s easy. You keep the pressure on him. If he throws us one, make sure you catch the ball. If he fumbles, make sure you get the ball. Keep it simple. Mental pressure, physical pressure. With mental pressure it’s disguising things, and with the physical pressure it’s getting him to the ground. Once the ball comes out we have every bit as much right to it as the offense. It’s as much our ball as it is theirs, so we have to get after it. We need to keep the pressure on him for 60 minutes, force him into some mistakes, and it’ll be good for us.

Q: You mentioned mental pressure. If you jaw in the ear of Tom Brady or Peyton Manning, you're probably not going to get into their heads, but a rookie like Jimmy Clausen is a different story. Do you talk to opposing QBs during games?

A: Me personally, I let my playing do the talking. There are guys on my team who will say a little something, and I’m all for it, but it’s not really my style. Especially with a young guy. He’s already scared enough so I don’t need to talk trash to get him any more scared. I just need to keep getting after him and getting hits on him. Get that ball out. I’m cool with that. I don’t need to talk.

Q: Panthers linebacker Jon Beason is one of the linebackers who you've mentioned over the past couple years as a guy whose game you not only respect but also study. What does he bring to the Carolina D?

A: He’s a great linebacker. He brings toughness, nastiness, to the defense. He brings speed. You’re not going to run away from him. He’s going to make plays all over the field. Jon Beason is one of those unique backers who will stay on the field for all three downs. He’s very explosive and can make any play on the field: interception down the field, sack, forced fumble, whatever it is. A guy like him really brings that toughness to the Carolina defense.

Q: He and you were at The U at the same time, right?

A: I think I was two years ahead of him.

Q: Will you speak with him this week?

A: Oh yeah, but probably not during the week. I like to talk to him after each game to see how he did, and just to talk football. I also like to hear his vantage point of the teams he’s playing because we play most of the teams he does, so I like to hear his thoughts on the opposition.

Q: Who is the unheralded hero of the Carolina Panthers offense?

A: Tackle Jordan Gross is by far one of the best tackles in the NFL. He’s a consistent Pro Bowler. He gets it done for them. They need a yard, they’re going to run behind him. They need protection, they make sure he’s got it locked up.

Q: What have you learned from your past matchups against the Panthers?

A: That it’s going to be a close game, and that they’re not going to back down regardless of the score. We’re going to have to really earn it to get that victory.

Q: What do you say in the huddle this week after an emotional loss like the one you suffered last week?

A: It always changes depending on the attitude and vibe of my teammates. If there is nothing to be said, there is nothing to be said. I know nine out of 10 guys feel like I feel, and can’t wait to get back out there on Sunday. If I’m feeling that energy, there is nothing to be said. It’s Sunday again, let’s get going.

Q: Do you anticipate your D-coordinator Gregg Williams will throw an extra guy in the box to put more pressure on Jimmy Clausen to beat you with his arm?

A: If Greg decides to put an extra guy in the box, I’m assuming that’s good, but that means you’ve got one less guy in the secondary, and you don’t really want a receiver you’ve never heard of going for 100-plus yards. That could end up being the reason we lose. But if Greg decides we need an extra man, that’s exactly what we’ll do.

Q: What do you need to do to win this weekend?

A: Stop the run, get off the field on third down, and create some turnovers.

Playmaker Roundup: Jonathan Vilma and Saints lose to the ATL Falcons in OT, Greg Oden to miss Blazer's opening game, Brandon Jennings has customized Under Armour cake at his 21st Bday party and more...

          Louis Ceaser IV, Playmaker Intern

• JONATHAN VILMA: The New Orleans Saints lost their first game in OT against the Atlanta Falcons yesterday, 27-24 @ the Superdome. Despite Saints' kicker, Garret Hartley's missed kick to win, the Falcons were able to keep Drew Brees' offense on the sidelines throughout the game. As a result, Vilma and his Saint's 'D' looked gassed as Matt Ryan was able to air it out---including a TD connect with WR Roddy White; RB Michael Turner also ran for over 111 yards. "We have to improve on our third down stops," mentioned Vilma during the post-game interview. The Saints will be ready for the Falcons again when they meet up for Monday Night Football in December.

• DONOVAN MCNABB: DM5 did not look sharp as the Redskins went down in flames to the St. Louis Rams 30-16. The Rams dominated the Redskins' offense as McNabb and Co. were forced into three-and-outs all game long. I'm pretty sure McNabb will be preparing intensely this week as he'll be traveling to Philly to play his former team, Mike Vick's Eagles (who sit atop of the division) this Sunday.

• OSI UMENYIORA: The NY Giants lost an ugly one to the Tennessee Titans, Sunday, 29-10 @ the New Meadowland's Stadium. Mike Vaccaro of The NY Post writes that it's ironic that the Giants "gained 200 yards and possessed the ball three minutes longer than the Titans and still manged to lose by two touchdowns, two, two-point conversions, and a field goal." The Giants are currently 1-2 for the season.

• RAY LEWIS: RL52 and Co. snagged the 'W' over the Browns, 27-17 @ home. The win, however, came with the injury of Ravens' RB Ray Rice who has been diagnosed with a contusion to his knee.  Lewis recorded 3 tackles and 4 assisted tackles. The Ravens are 2-1 for the season and play the Steelers next Sunday.

• STEVE NASH: Randy Hill of FoxSports Arizona writes that two-time MVP, Steve Nash, is the PHX Sun's last hope to remain relevant. This upcoming 2010-2011 NBA season will be Nash's 15th year in the League and according to Steve, he "doesn't expect any dip in his performance." PHX Sun's coach, Alvin Gentry, (who recently signed a 1 year contract extension) backs up Nash's claims for consistent play. However, Gentry mentions that the Suns will have to create new ways to grab boards (rebounds) as S.T.A.T. aka Amare Stoudemire now plays for the NY Knicks.

• RAJON RONDO: Jim Fenton of GateHouse News writes that Rajon Rondo looks ready to build on a breakout season. Teammate, Paul Pierce recently mentioned that Rondo's understanding of the game and his ability to run the point is awe-inspiring. Last season, Rondo was voted to his first All Star game, made the League's all defensive first team and was voted fifth for the defensive player of the year. RR's five-year, $55-million dollar contract kicks in this season. With all this hype around the Miami Heat, don't sleep on the Boston Celtics.

• GREG ODEN: The Blazer's center recently told reporters at Portland's media day that he won't be present on opening day and that he's still experiencing pain in his surgically repaired knee. 

• YAO MING: Fran Blinebury of NBA.com writes that time is running out for the Houston Rockets and their playoff hopes as an aging Yao Ming will be limited to 24 minutes per game this season. The Rockets finished a measly 42-40 and missed the playoffs last season. 

• BRANDON JENNINGS: Trent Kerby of Yahoo! Sports recently wrote that Brandon Jennings' 21st bday party in LA over the weekend popped off. Click here to read the article and view pics of Young Buck's "Black Ice" Under Armour Shoe cake.