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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Hackett resigns; Jets hire Heimerdinger

Associated Press

New York Jets offensive coordinator Paul Hackett knew the time had come for him to leave the team.

Following mounting pressure and constant criticism for his conservative play-calling, Hackett and coach Herman Edwards decided it was best for them to part ways. So Hackett resigned Wednesday after four seasons with the club, and Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Mike Heimerdinger was hired hours later as his replacement.

Robbins charged with attempted murder

Former Oakland Raiders center Barret Robbins was charged with three counts of attempted felony murder, less than a week after being shot during a furious struggle with three police officers investigating a burglary call.

He was wounded Saturday night after Miami Beach police found him inside a women’s restroom in a building housing a pub, a gym and a jewelry store. The pub owner called police after Robbins forced his way inside the building and refused to leave, a police report said.

Williams, Clarett on early list

Maurice Clarett, from Ohio State, and Mike Williams, from USC, were among 49 underclassmen granted early entry into the NFL draft.

Other prominent names included junior quarterbacks Alex Smith of Utah and Aaron Rodgers of California.

Sunday will be filled with cold, snow

Forecasters are calling for game-time temperatures of 20 degrees and a chance of snow showers for Sunday night’s New England at Pittsburgh AFC title game.

The weather could be worse across the state in Philadelphia for the NFC championship game between Atlanta and Eagles in the afternoon. Snow is predicted this weekend, with anywhere from a minimal amount to a major storm.

Around the league

Scott Linehan agreed to a three-year contract with Miami to be their offensive coordinator, leaving Minnesota without one. … Chuck Bresnahan was promoted to defensive coordinator of Cincinnati. … Atlanta offensive tackle Todd Weiner and cornerback Kevin Mathis sat out practice because of sore ankles. … Philadelphia linebacker Mark Simoneau returned to practice. Right tackle Jon Runyan missed practice with strained knee ligaments but is expected to play Sunday.