Talks resume toward ending NBA lockout

Talks aimed at ending the NBA lockout have resumed, two people with knowledge of the situation said Wednesday, with a quick settlement necessary to start the season by Christmas.

The discussions began quietly Tuesday and are expected to continue through the Thanksgiving holiday, the people told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the talks were supposed to remain confidential.

The talks between representatives of the owners and players are now centered on settling their lawsuits: The players filed an antitrust lawsuit against the league in Minnesota and the league filed a pre-emptive suit in New York, seeking to prove the lockout was legal.

Neither side commented on the talks, first reported by Yahoo Sports, though the league said in a statement it "remains in favor of a negotiated resolution" to the lockout.

The news revived the hopes of saving the Christmas slate, when the league schedules some marquee matchups to kick off its national TV package. The NBA finals rematch between Dallas and Miami was to headline three games this season.

The league had wanted to open a 72-game schedule on Dec. 15, pushing the start of the playoffs and finals back a week, if players had agreed to the last offer. But players rejected the owners' most recent proposal on Nov. 14, announcing instead they were disbanding the union to pave the way to sue the league.

The plan now would be for 66 games if a resolution comes soon. The league played a 50-game schedule in 1998-99 during its last lockout, when a deal didn't come until January, so there's still hope of some games this season even if it doesn't include Christmas.

Commissioner David Stern has said it would take about 30 days from an agreement to the start of the regular season.

David Boies, one of the attorneys representing the players, has repeatedly said he hoped the league would be compelled to settle rather than risk a potentially lengthy trial that could end with players being awarded about $6 billion in damages.

Because the union disbanded, it cannot negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement, but the settlement talks could lead to that. The CBA can only be completed once the union has reformed.

When talks broke down, the sides were still divided over the division of revenues and certain changes sought by owners to curb spending by big-market teams that players felt would limit or restrict their options in free agency. Owners are insistent on a 50-50 split of basketball-related income. Union officials indicated they could be open to that, even though they were guaranteed 57 percent in the old CBA, but only if the league conceded on some of the "system" issues.

With the union no longer representing the players, it was unclear who was involved in the new round of talks. NBPA executive director Billy Hunter is officially part of the players' legal team so he's able to take part in the talks, though his participation in negotiations could strengthen the league's contention that the disclaimer strategy was a "sham" and the union hadn't really gone anywhere.

Talks resume toward ending NBA lockout

Talks aimed at ending the NBA lockout have resumed, two people with knowledge of the situation said Wednesday, with a quick settlement necessary to start the season by Christmas.

The discussions began quietly Tuesday and are expected to continue through the Thanksgiving holiday, the people told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the talks were supposed to remain confidential.

The talks between representatives of the owners and players are now centered on settling their lawsuits: The players filed an antitrust lawsuit against the league in Minnesota and the league filed a pre-emptive suit in New York, seeking to prove the lockout was legal.

Neither side commented on the talks, first reported by Yahoo Sports, though the league said in a statement it "remains in favor of a negotiated resolution" to the lockout.

The news revived the hopes of saving the Christmas slate, when the league schedules some marquee matchups to kick off its national TV package. The NBA finals rematch between Dallas and Miami was to headline three games this season.

The league had wanted to open a 72-game schedule on Dec. 15, pushing the start of the playoffs and finals back a week, if players had agreed to the last offer. But players rejected the owners' most recent proposal on Nov. 14, announcing instead they were disbanding the union to pave the way to sue the league.

The plan now would be for 66 games if a resolution comes soon. The league played a 50-game schedule in 1998-99 during its last lockout, when a deal didn't come until January, so there's still hope of some games this season even if it doesn't include Christmas.

Commissioner David Stern has said it would take about 30 days from an agreement to the start of the regular season.

David Boies, one of the attorneys representing the players, has repeatedly said he hoped the league would be compelled to settle rather than risk a potentially lengthy trial that could end with players being awarded about $6 billion in damages.

Because the union disbanded, it cannot negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement, but the settlement talks could lead to that. The CBA can only be completed once the union has reformed.

When talks broke down, the sides were still divided over the division of revenues and certain changes sought by owners to curb spending by big-market teams that players felt would limit or restrict their options in free agency. Owners are insistent on a 50-50 split of basketball-related income. Union officials indicated they could be open to that, even though they were guaranteed 57 percent in the old CBA, but only if the league conceded on some of the "system" issues.

With the union no longer representing the players, it was unclear who was involved in the new round of talks. NBPA executive director Billy Hunter is officially part of the players' legal team so he's able to take part in the talks, though his participation in negotiations could strengthen the league's contention that the disclaimer strategy was a "sham" and the union hadn't really gone anywhere.

Talks resume toward ending NBA lockout

Talks aimed at ending the NBA lockout have resumed, two people with knowledge of the situation said Wednesday, with a quick settlement necessary to start the season by Christmas.

The discussions began quietly Tuesday and are expected to continue through the Thanksgiving holiday, the people told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the talks were supposed to remain confidential.

The talks between representatives of the owners and players are now centered on settling their lawsuits: The players filed an antitrust lawsuit against the league in Minnesota and the league filed a pre-emptive suit in New York, seeking to prove the lockout was legal.

Neither side commented on the talks, first reported by Yahoo Sports, though the league said in a statement it "remains in favor of a negotiated resolution" to the lockout.

The news revived the hopes of saving the Christmas slate, when the league schedules some marquee matchups to kick off its national TV package. The NBA finals rematch between Dallas and Miami was to headline three games this season.

The league had wanted to open a 72-game schedule on Dec. 15, pushing the start of the playoffs and finals back a week, if players had agreed to the last offer. But players rejected the owners' most recent proposal on Nov. 14, announcing instead they were disbanding the union to pave the way to sue the league.

The plan now would be for 66 games if a resolution comes soon. The league played a 50-game schedule in 1998-99 during its last lockout, when a deal didn't come until January, so there's still hope of some games this season even if it doesn't include Christmas.

Commissioner David Stern has said it would take about 30 days from an agreement to the start of the regular season.

David Boies, one of the attorneys representing the players, has repeatedly said he hoped the league would be compelled to settle rather than risk a potentially lengthy trial that could end with players being awarded about $6 billion in damages.

Because the union disbanded, it cannot negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement, but the settlement talks could lead to that. The CBA can only be completed once the union has reformed.

When talks broke down, the sides were still divided over the division of revenues and certain changes sought by owners to curb spending by big-market teams that players felt would limit or restrict their options in free agency. Owners are insistent on a 50-50 split of basketball-related income. Union officials indicated they could be open to that, even though they were guaranteed 57 percent in the old CBA, but only if the league conceded on some of the "system" issues.

With the union no longer representing the players, it was unclear who was involved in the new round of talks. NBPA executive director Billy Hunter is officially part of the players' legal team so he's able to take part in the talks, though his participation in negotiations could strengthen the league's contention that the disclaimer strategy was a "sham" and the union hadn't really gone anywhere.

Judge rules jury can hear trustee’s case vs Mets

The New York Mets’ owners have been ordered to undergo a jury trial if the case against them by the trustee for the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme goes forward.

In a six-page order Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff agreed with trustee Irving Picard and turned down arguments by the ownership group headed by Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz, who claimed the case should be decided by a judge because it began in U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

Picard originally sought $1 billion from the Mets’ owners, claiming they should have known millions they collected from Madoff represented phony profits. Wilpon and Katz have denied the claims in lengthy litigation.

Rakoff dismissed nine of 11 counts on Sept. 27, limiting the exposure of the Mets’ ownership to about $386 million.

Judge rules jury can hear trustee’s case vs Mets

The New York Mets’ owners have been ordered to undergo a jury trial if the case against them by the trustee for the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme goes forward.

In a six-page order Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff agreed with trustee Irving Picard and turned down arguments by the ownership group headed by Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz, who claimed the case should be decided by a judge because it began in U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

Picard originally sought $1 billion from the Mets’ owners, claiming they should have known millions they collected from Madoff represented phony profits. Wilpon and Katz have denied the claims in lengthy litigation.

Rakoff dismissed nine of 11 counts on Sept. 27, limiting the exposure of the Mets’ ownership to about $386 million.

Judge rules jury can hear trustee’s case vs Mets

The New York Mets’ owners have been ordered to undergo a jury trial if the case against them by the trustee for the Bernard Madoff Ponzi scheme goes forward.

In a six-page order Wednesday, U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff agreed with trustee Irving Picard and turned down arguments by the ownership group headed by Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz, who claimed the case should be decided by a judge because it began in U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

Picard originally sought $1 billion from the Mets’ owners, claiming they should have known millions they collected from Madoff represented phony profits. Wilpon and Katz have denied the claims in lengthy litigation.

Rakoff dismissed nine of 11 counts on Sept. 27, limiting the exposure of the Mets’ ownership to about $386 million.

Indians bring back OF Grady Sizemore

Even as other teams made him offers, Grady Sizemore(notes) knew there was only one that made sense for him.He still belonged with the Indians.“I wasn’t ready to say goodbye and move on,” he said.On Wednesday, the Indians re-signed Sizemore to a one-year, incentive-based contract, bringing the oft-injured former All-Star outfielder back for another chance to become the electrifying player whose career has been derailed the past three seasons by injuries and surgeries.izemore’s journey into free agency didn’t take him every far.

Although there were “good offers from good organizations,” Sizemore decided to stay with the one that has patiently waited for him to get healthy.

“They know me better than anybody,” Sizemore said.

The Indians, who last month declined a $9 million option for 2012 on Sizemore, will pay him a base salary of $5 million next season. The 29-year-old can make another $4 million based on plate appearances. The deal also includes an awards package that includes $500,000 if Sizemore is selected comeback player of the year.

The performance bonuses max out with fewer plate appearances than Sizemore had in any season from 2005-08.

Sizemore has undergone five surgeries, including a microfracture procedure on his left knee, the past two years and has only played in 210 games over the last three seasons because of injuries. But the Indians are confident that a healthy Sizemore can help them contend in the AL Central.

“We’re obviously optimistic,” said general manager Chris Antonetti. “We know that when he’s been on the field, he’s been a very productive player. We know it’s not going to be for 155 or 160 games per year, but we feel optimistic Grady will get back to the point that he is a very good player for us.”

Following the World Series, the Indians cut ties with Sizemore by declining the option for next season, making him a free agent for the first time. Antonetti flew to Arizona to personally meet with Sizemore and explain the team’s reasons for letting him go. Antonetti said the team was not closing the door on Sizemore and the Indians would gladly re-sign him—at the right price.

That gesture of loyalty, and the team’s patience with Sizemore while he was hurt, meant a lot to him.

As other teams made offers, the Indians stayed in touch with Sizemore’s representative and never wavered in their pursuit of one of the club’s most popular players.

“The Indians were aggressive in wanting to keep Grady, and he has said all along he would keep an open mind toward returning,” said agent Joe Urbon. “He appreciates the interest from other clubs, and he just felt that the best place to reassert himself as a great player is in Cleveland. He can stay in center field, which is important to him, and he has enjoyed his time there.

“Now, he can focus on his play without the distractions of new surroundings, and he will be a free agent again just after his 30th birthday.”

Sizemore acknowledged he had some doubts as he ventured into free agency unsure of his future.

“I really didn’t know what to expect,” he said. “I was in the dark a little bit.”

But as the process unfolded, it became clear to Sizemore—and the Indians— that they’re relationship was not supposed to end. Sizemore said he’s eager to put the past three years behind him and hopefully help the Indians win.

“It’s been frustrating,” he said. “I’ve always loved being a part of this organization and I never pictured myself playing anywhere else.”

Sizemore played in only 71 games after beginning last season on the disabled list. He made three trips to the DL and underwent right knee surgery on Oct. 3, just days after his season ended with a .224 batting average 10 homers, 32 RBIs and zero steals for the first time in his career.

Sizemore is continuing to rehab his injury and believes he’ll be ready when spring training camp opens in February.

With Sizemore back, and assuming he can stay healthy, the Indians’ starting outfielder appears to be settled with Sizemore in center, Michael Brantley(notes) in left and Shin-Soo Choo(notes) in right. The club still needs to add some depth and Antonetti promised the team will continue “trying to make our ballclub better.”

Cleveland is looking for more offensive help, and it’s likely the club’s focus will be an upgrade at first base. Manager Manny Acta said incumbent first baseman Matt LaPorta(notes) will have to earn a roster spot this spring.

Sizemore joined the Indians in 2002, coming over as part of the six-player blockbuster trade that sent ace Bartolo Colon(notes) to Montreal. Sizemore’s blend of speed and power were unlike any player in club history and he’s the only Indians player with at least 100 homers, 200 doubles and 100 steals.

There are skeptics who doubt Sizemore will ever play at the level he once did. He’s not worried about anything other than getting ready to play.

“I want to prove to everyone that I can stay healthy and I can perform,” he said. “I want to have a healthy year and get back to playing like I know I can.”

Indians bring back OF Grady Sizemore

Even as other teams made him offers, Grady Sizemore(notes) knew there was only one that made sense for him.He still belonged with the Indians.“I wasn’t ready to say goodbye and move on,” he said.On Wednesday, the Indians re-signed Sizemore to a one-year, incentive-based contract, bringing the oft-injured former All-Star outfielder back for another chance to become the electrifying player whose career has been derailed the past three seasons by injuries and surgeries.izemore’s journey into free agency didn’t take him every far.

Although there were “good offers from good organizations,” Sizemore decided to stay with the one that has patiently waited for him to get healthy.

“They know me better than anybody,” Sizemore said.

The Indians, who last month declined a $9 million option for 2012 on Sizemore, will pay him a base salary of $5 million next season. The 29-year-old can make another $4 million based on plate appearances. The deal also includes an awards package that includes $500,000 if Sizemore is selected comeback player of the year.

The performance bonuses max out with fewer plate appearances than Sizemore had in any season from 2005-08.

Sizemore has undergone five surgeries, including a microfracture procedure on his left knee, the past two years and has only played in 210 games over the last three seasons because of injuries. But the Indians are confident that a healthy Sizemore can help them contend in the AL Central.

“We’re obviously optimistic,” said general manager Chris Antonetti. “We know that when he’s been on the field, he’s been a very productive player. We know it’s not going to be for 155 or 160 games per year, but we feel optimistic Grady will get back to the point that he is a very good player for us.”

Following the World Series, the Indians cut ties with Sizemore by declining the option for next season, making him a free agent for the first time. Antonetti flew to Arizona to personally meet with Sizemore and explain the team’s reasons for letting him go. Antonetti said the team was not closing the door on Sizemore and the Indians would gladly re-sign him—at the right price.

That gesture of loyalty, and the team’s patience with Sizemore while he was hurt, meant a lot to him.

As other teams made offers, the Indians stayed in touch with Sizemore’s representative and never wavered in their pursuit of one of the club’s most popular players.

“The Indians were aggressive in wanting to keep Grady, and he has said all along he would keep an open mind toward returning,” said agent Joe Urbon. “He appreciates the interest from other clubs, and he just felt that the best place to reassert himself as a great player is in Cleveland. He can stay in center field, which is important to him, and he has enjoyed his time there.

“Now, he can focus on his play without the distractions of new surroundings, and he will be a free agent again just after his 30th birthday.”

Sizemore acknowledged he had some doubts as he ventured into free agency unsure of his future.

“I really didn’t know what to expect,” he said. “I was in the dark a little bit.”

But as the process unfolded, it became clear to Sizemore—and the Indians— that they’re relationship was not supposed to end. Sizemore said he’s eager to put the past three years behind him and hopefully help the Indians win.

“It’s been frustrating,” he said. “I’ve always loved being a part of this organization and I never pictured myself playing anywhere else.”

Sizemore played in only 71 games after beginning last season on the disabled list. He made three trips to the DL and underwent right knee surgery on Oct. 3, just days after his season ended with a .224 batting average 10 homers, 32 RBIs and zero steals for the first time in his career.

Sizemore is continuing to rehab his injury and believes he’ll be ready when spring training camp opens in February.

With Sizemore back, and assuming he can stay healthy, the Indians’ starting outfielder appears to be settled with Sizemore in center, Michael Brantley(notes) in left and Shin-Soo Choo(notes) in right. The club still needs to add some depth and Antonetti promised the team will continue “trying to make our ballclub better.”

Cleveland is looking for more offensive help, and it’s likely the club’s focus will be an upgrade at first base. Manager Manny Acta said incumbent first baseman Matt LaPorta(notes) will have to earn a roster spot this spring.

Sizemore joined the Indians in 2002, coming over as part of the six-player blockbuster trade that sent ace Bartolo Colon(notes) to Montreal. Sizemore’s blend of speed and power were unlike any player in club history and he’s the only Indians player with at least 100 homers, 200 doubles and 100 steals.

There are skeptics who doubt Sizemore will ever play at the level he once did. He’s not worried about anything other than getting ready to play.

“I want to prove to everyone that I can stay healthy and I can perform,” he said. “I want to have a healthy year and get back to playing like I know I can.”

Indians bring back OF Grady Sizemore

Even as other teams made him offers, Grady Sizemore(notes) knew there was only one that made sense for him.He still belonged with the Indians.“I wasn’t ready to say goodbye and move on,” he said.On Wednesday, the Indians re-signed Sizemore to a one-year, incentive-based contract, bringing the oft-injured former All-Star outfielder back for another chance to become the electrifying player whose career has been derailed the past three seasons by injuries and surgeries.izemore’s journey into free agency didn’t take him every far.

Although there were “good offers from good organizations,” Sizemore decided to stay with the one that has patiently waited for him to get healthy.

“They know me better than anybody,” Sizemore said.

The Indians, who last month declined a $9 million option for 2012 on Sizemore, will pay him a base salary of $5 million next season. The 29-year-old can make another $4 million based on plate appearances. The deal also includes an awards package that includes $500,000 if Sizemore is selected comeback player of the year.

The performance bonuses max out with fewer plate appearances than Sizemore had in any season from 2005-08.

Sizemore has undergone five surgeries, including a microfracture procedure on his left knee, the past two years and has only played in 210 games over the last three seasons because of injuries. But the Indians are confident that a healthy Sizemore can help them contend in the AL Central.

“We’re obviously optimistic,” said general manager Chris Antonetti. “We know that when he’s been on the field, he’s been a very productive player. We know it’s not going to be for 155 or 160 games per year, but we feel optimistic Grady will get back to the point that he is a very good player for us.”

Following the World Series, the Indians cut ties with Sizemore by declining the option for next season, making him a free agent for the first time. Antonetti flew to Arizona to personally meet with Sizemore and explain the team’s reasons for letting him go. Antonetti said the team was not closing the door on Sizemore and the Indians would gladly re-sign him—at the right price.

That gesture of loyalty, and the team’s patience with Sizemore while he was hurt, meant a lot to him.

As other teams made offers, the Indians stayed in touch with Sizemore’s representative and never wavered in their pursuit of one of the club’s most popular players.

“The Indians were aggressive in wanting to keep Grady, and he has said all along he would keep an open mind toward returning,” said agent Joe Urbon. “He appreciates the interest from other clubs, and he just felt that the best place to reassert himself as a great player is in Cleveland. He can stay in center field, which is important to him, and he has enjoyed his time there.

“Now, he can focus on his play without the distractions of new surroundings, and he will be a free agent again just after his 30th birthday.”

Sizemore acknowledged he had some doubts as he ventured into free agency unsure of his future.

“I really didn’t know what to expect,” he said. “I was in the dark a little bit.”

But as the process unfolded, it became clear to Sizemore—and the Indians— that they’re relationship was not supposed to end. Sizemore said he’s eager to put the past three years behind him and hopefully help the Indians win.

“It’s been frustrating,” he said. “I’ve always loved being a part of this organization and I never pictured myself playing anywhere else.”

Sizemore played in only 71 games after beginning last season on the disabled list. He made three trips to the DL and underwent right knee surgery on Oct. 3, just days after his season ended with a .224 batting average 10 homers, 32 RBIs and zero steals for the first time in his career.

Sizemore is continuing to rehab his injury and believes he’ll be ready when spring training camp opens in February.

With Sizemore back, and assuming he can stay healthy, the Indians’ starting outfielder appears to be settled with Sizemore in center, Michael Brantley(notes) in left and Shin-Soo Choo(notes) in right. The club still needs to add some depth and Antonetti promised the team will continue “trying to make our ballclub better.”

Cleveland is looking for more offensive help, and it’s likely the club’s focus will be an upgrade at first base. Manager Manny Acta said incumbent first baseman Matt LaPorta(notes) will have to earn a roster spot this spring.

Sizemore joined the Indians in 2002, coming over as part of the six-player blockbuster trade that sent ace Bartolo Colon(notes) to Montreal. Sizemore’s blend of speed and power were unlike any player in club history and he’s the only Indians player with at least 100 homers, 200 doubles and 100 steals.

There are skeptics who doubt Sizemore will ever play at the level he once did. He’s not worried about anything other than getting ready to play.

“I want to prove to everyone that I can stay healthy and I can perform,” he said. “I want to have a healthy year and get back to playing like I know I can.”

racehorse ‘Tebowing’

A filly sired by 2000 Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus will run with the most heavenly name this side of Gabriel and Michael. "Tebowing," they'll call her.
After the horse's original moniker was denied by the Jockey Club for sounding too much like another's, the founders of a thoroughbred racing team called Little Red Feather decided to name the young horse after Tim Tebow's(notes) oft-imitated pose.
"Our response has been polarizing," founder Larry Koch told Larry Brown Sports. "A bunch of people want to go in, and a bunch of people said they would never go in on that."
He must be referring to Jake Plummer.
"My whole goal is to get people into horse racing," he continued. "If naming the horse 'Tebowing' gets people into racing, it's worth it."
John Elway, who knows something about horses, is already said to be discounting Tebowing's chances and will be looking toward another thoroughbred to run his way into the winner's circle.

racehorse ‘Tebowing’

A filly sired by 2000 Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus will run with the most heavenly name this side of Gabriel and Michael. "Tebowing," they'll call her.
After the horse's original moniker was denied by the Jockey Club for sounding too much like another's, the founders of a thoroughbred racing team called Little Red Feather decided to name the young horse after Tim Tebow's(notes) oft-imitated pose.
"Our response has been polarizing," founder Larry Koch told Larry Brown Sports. "A bunch of people want to go in, and a bunch of people said they would never go in on that."
He must be referring to Jake Plummer.
"My whole goal is to get people into horse racing," he continued. "If naming the horse 'Tebowing' gets people into racing, it's worth it."
John Elway, who knows something about horses, is already said to be discounting Tebowing's chances and will be looking toward another thoroughbred to run his way into the winner's circle.

racehorse ‘Tebowing’

A filly sired by 2000 Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus will run with the most heavenly name this side of Gabriel and Michael. "Tebowing," they'll call her.
After the horse's original moniker was denied by the Jockey Club for sounding too much like another's, the founders of a thoroughbred racing team called Little Red Feather decided to name the young horse after Tim Tebow's(notes) oft-imitated pose.
"Our response has been polarizing," founder Larry Koch told Larry Brown Sports. "A bunch of people want to go in, and a bunch of people said they would never go in on that."
He must be referring to Jake Plummer.
"My whole goal is to get people into horse racing," he continued. "If naming the horse 'Tebowing' gets people into racing, it's worth it."
John Elway, who knows something about horses, is already said to be discounting Tebowing's chances and will be looking toward another thoroughbred to run his way into the winner's circle.

Sanchez, Rex Not Talking

It hasn't turned to blows, but New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that quarterback Mark Sanchez(notes) isn't talking to him after snaps were taken away from the three-year starter on Tuesday. Veteran back-up Mark Brunell(notes) received less than a handful of plays with the first team, but Ryan observed that was enough to send Sanchez into a snit.

Brunell estimated that he "got four plays out of the 40 we ran" during Tuesday's practice.

According to Ryan, it was the first time this season that Brunell has been mixed in with the starters, causing the Jets head coach to say that Sanchez "is not happy with me."

Ryan judged this displeasure "By his body language. He hasn't talked to me, for real. He has not said one word." When told about those comments, Sanchez laughed it off.

"No not at all, at least not on purpose," Sanchez said.

The lack of communication between head coach and starting quarterback wasn't apparent to the rest of the team. Brunell said he didn't notice a rift or anything out of the ordinary from practice, other than he got snaps with the first team. He estimated that the Jets give "99 percent" of their first-team snaps to the starting quarterback, but as for a brewing issue between Ryan and Sanchez, he sensed none of that.

"I know they talk a lot but like I said, I wasn't aware that was for motivation or anything like that. They have a pretty cool bond that I think is pretty special -- one that's going to be around for a long time," Brunell said. "I can appreciate that. Last time they did it, I think Mark came out against the Steelers if I'm not mistaken and played lights out."

The "last time" reference by Brunell refers to the Jets having resorted to this route before as Ryan pulled a similar stunt, a bit of gamesmanship around this time last year. Following a Week 14 loss to Miami where Sanchez completed just 38 percent of his passes, Brunell received some snaps with the first team in practice the following week. In response, Sanchez put together a complete performance in Pittsburgh with an effective 19-29 for 170 yards in a surprising win that helped set the tone for the rest of the season.

He admitted this past summer to GQ Magazine that he "wanted to fight" Ryan after Brunell's snaps last fall, causing the Jets head coach to inexplicably reference that moment Tuesday during his press conference.

"If he wants to beat me up, that's fine, as long as we have the same success coming out of it because he was playing great," Ryan said.

The Jets have lost two in a row and while Sanchez hasn't been horrid, he has come under fire.

"I think that's what he's using it for," Sanchez said.

"Mark has played well, but do I want to get the one guy a snap? Absolutely, and I think it does send a message that, hey, look, every single player, no matter how good, Darrelle Revis(notes) doesn't take every snap in practice a lot of times," Ryan said.

"You know me, if I think something is working, we'll go with it. If we played better when we did it last year, then I will do that. If it's to wear [AFL New York] Titans stuff, then I'll do it."

Sanchez, Rex Not Talking

It hasn't turned to blows, but New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that quarterback Mark Sanchez(notes) isn't talking to him after snaps were taken away from the three-year starter on Tuesday. Veteran back-up Mark Brunell(notes) received less than a handful of plays with the first team, but Ryan observed that was enough to send Sanchez into a snit.

Brunell estimated that he "got four plays out of the 40 we ran" during Tuesday's practice.

According to Ryan, it was the first time this season that Brunell has been mixed in with the starters, causing the Jets head coach to say that Sanchez "is not happy with me."

Ryan judged this displeasure "By his body language. He hasn't talked to me, for real. He has not said one word." When told about those comments, Sanchez laughed it off.

"No not at all, at least not on purpose," Sanchez said.

The lack of communication between head coach and starting quarterback wasn't apparent to the rest of the team. Brunell said he didn't notice a rift or anything out of the ordinary from practice, other than he got snaps with the first team. He estimated that the Jets give "99 percent" of their first-team snaps to the starting quarterback, but as for a brewing issue between Ryan and Sanchez, he sensed none of that.

"I know they talk a lot but like I said, I wasn't aware that was for motivation or anything like that. They have a pretty cool bond that I think is pretty special -- one that's going to be around for a long time," Brunell said. "I can appreciate that. Last time they did it, I think Mark came out against the Steelers if I'm not mistaken and played lights out."

The "last time" reference by Brunell refers to the Jets having resorted to this route before as Ryan pulled a similar stunt, a bit of gamesmanship around this time last year. Following a Week 14 loss to Miami where Sanchez completed just 38 percent of his passes, Brunell received some snaps with the first team in practice the following week. In response, Sanchez put together a complete performance in Pittsburgh with an effective 19-29 for 170 yards in a surprising win that helped set the tone for the rest of the season.

He admitted this past summer to GQ Magazine that he "wanted to fight" Ryan after Brunell's snaps last fall, causing the Jets head coach to inexplicably reference that moment Tuesday during his press conference.

"If he wants to beat me up, that's fine, as long as we have the same success coming out of it because he was playing great," Ryan said.

The Jets have lost two in a row and while Sanchez hasn't been horrid, he has come under fire.

"I think that's what he's using it for," Sanchez said.

"Mark has played well, but do I want to get the one guy a snap? Absolutely, and I think it does send a message that, hey, look, every single player, no matter how good, Darrelle Revis(notes) doesn't take every snap in practice a lot of times," Ryan said.

"You know me, if I think something is working, we'll go with it. If we played better when we did it last year, then I will do that. If it's to wear [AFL New York] Titans stuff, then I'll do it."

Sanchez, Rex Not Talking

It hasn't turned to blows, but New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan said that quarterback Mark Sanchez(notes) isn't talking to him after snaps were taken away from the three-year starter on Tuesday. Veteran back-up Mark Brunell(notes) received less than a handful of plays with the first team, but Ryan observed that was enough to send Sanchez into a snit.

Brunell estimated that he "got four plays out of the 40 we ran" during Tuesday's practice.

According to Ryan, it was the first time this season that Brunell has been mixed in with the starters, causing the Jets head coach to say that Sanchez "is not happy with me."

Ryan judged this displeasure "By his body language. He hasn't talked to me, for real. He has not said one word." When told about those comments, Sanchez laughed it off.

"No not at all, at least not on purpose," Sanchez said.

The lack of communication between head coach and starting quarterback wasn't apparent to the rest of the team. Brunell said he didn't notice a rift or anything out of the ordinary from practice, other than he got snaps with the first team. He estimated that the Jets give "99 percent" of their first-team snaps to the starting quarterback, but as for a brewing issue between Ryan and Sanchez, he sensed none of that.

"I know they talk a lot but like I said, I wasn't aware that was for motivation or anything like that. They have a pretty cool bond that I think is pretty special -- one that's going to be around for a long time," Brunell said. "I can appreciate that. Last time they did it, I think Mark came out against the Steelers if I'm not mistaken and played lights out."

The "last time" reference by Brunell refers to the Jets having resorted to this route before as Ryan pulled a similar stunt, a bit of gamesmanship around this time last year. Following a Week 14 loss to Miami where Sanchez completed just 38 percent of his passes, Brunell received some snaps with the first team in practice the following week. In response, Sanchez put together a complete performance in Pittsburgh with an effective 19-29 for 170 yards in a surprising win that helped set the tone for the rest of the season.

He admitted this past summer to GQ Magazine that he "wanted to fight" Ryan after Brunell's snaps last fall, causing the Jets head coach to inexplicably reference that moment Tuesday during his press conference.

"If he wants to beat me up, that's fine, as long as we have the same success coming out of it because he was playing great," Ryan said.

The Jets have lost two in a row and while Sanchez hasn't been horrid, he has come under fire.

"I think that's what he's using it for," Sanchez said.

"Mark has played well, but do I want to get the one guy a snap? Absolutely, and I think it does send a message that, hey, look, every single player, no matter how good, Darrelle Revis(notes) doesn't take every snap in practice a lot of times," Ryan said.

"You know me, if I think something is working, we'll go with it. If we played better when we did it last year, then I will do that. If it's to wear [AFL New York] Titans stuff, then I'll do it."

Ashley Cole to become an actor

It takes a certain amount of acting skill to to deceive your wife when you are cheating on her behind her back. In completely unrelated news, Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is set to display his acting skills when he features in a new football-based movie called Played.

The money-loving left back will play himself in the docu-drama, which begins filming next month. The Sun explains the plot:

"The plot follows a football agent and how he goes about his business while living the Premier League lifestyle. It features a few dodgy scenarios including underhand transfers and sleeping around with different women."

While Cole may be thrilled to research the "sleeping around with different women" part of his role, he will almost certainly be ecstatic to share the silver screen with the world's greatest living actor, Danny Dyer. The movie will also feature Sam Allardyce playing himself, and Joe Cole playing someone who used to be able to get a game in the Premier League.

Ashley Cole to become an actor

It takes a certain amount of acting skill to to deceive your wife when you are cheating on her behind her back. In completely unrelated news, Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is set to display his acting skills when he features in a new football-based movie called Played.

The money-loving left back will play himself in the docu-drama, which begins filming next month. The Sun explains the plot:

"The plot follows a football agent and how he goes about his business while living the Premier League lifestyle. It features a few dodgy scenarios including underhand transfers and sleeping around with different women."

While Cole may be thrilled to research the "sleeping around with different women" part of his role, he will almost certainly be ecstatic to share the silver screen with the world's greatest living actor, Danny Dyer. The movie will also feature Sam Allardyce playing himself, and Joe Cole playing someone who used to be able to get a game in the Premier League.

Ashley Cole to become an actor

It takes a certain amount of acting skill to to deceive your wife when you are cheating on her behind her back. In completely unrelated news, Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is set to display his acting skills when he features in a new football-based movie called Played.

The money-loving left back will play himself in the docu-drama, which begins filming next month. The Sun explains the plot:

"The plot follows a football agent and how he goes about his business while living the Premier League lifestyle. It features a few dodgy scenarios including underhand transfers and sleeping around with different women."

While Cole may be thrilled to research the "sleeping around with different women" part of his role, he will almost certainly be ecstatic to share the silver screen with the world's greatest living actor, Danny Dyer. The movie will also feature Sam Allardyce playing himself, and Joe Cole playing someone who used to be able to get a game in the Premier League.