Cable vs. satellite heats up
A bitter dispute between cable and satellite TV over the broadcast of NFL games has intensified, with Time Warner Cable Inc. accusing DirecTV Group Inc. of deceptive trade practices.
The lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Manhattan claims DirecTV lied about the accessibility of NFL broadcasts in an attempt to pry away customers from Time Warner Cable.
The suit seeks unspecified damages and a court order to stop DirecTV from saying in advertising that Time Warner Cable subscribers cannot watch their local NFL team play games when DirecTV is showing games on the NFL Network.
Johnson thrown a fine
Carolina Panthers receiver Keyshawn Johnson was fined $5,000 by the NFL for throwing his helmet late in the fourth quarter of Monday night’s loss at Philadelphia.
Weinke may get start
Carolina quarterback Jake Delhomme did not practice for a third straight day with a right thumb injury, making it more likely Chris Weinke will start for the Panthers in Sunday’s game against the New York Giants.
Dallas picks up Parrish
The Dallas Cowboys claimed veteran safety Tony Parrish off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers and released rookie kick returner Skyler Green.
Seau plans to return
New England Patriots linebacker Junior Seau, out for the rest of year after his third straight season-ending injury, said he plans to return next year for an 18th season.
Seau broke his arm Nov. 26.
Elam in, Wilson not sure
Denver Broncos kicker Jason Elam said he’s playing. Middle linebacker Al Wilson isn’t sure.
Elam said his injured left hamstring feels much better and he will play Sunday against San Diego.
Wilson, who injured his neck last Sunday night, said his status will depend on how he feels when he wakes up Sunday.
Betts gets an extension
Running back Ladell Betts signed a five-year, $11 million contract extension with the Washington Redskins, opting to remain in Clinton Portis’ shadow rather than test free agency after a career-best season.
Taylor still doubtful
Minnesota Vikings running back Chester Taylor’s bruised ribs left him doubtful on the injury report and unlikely to play against Detroit.
Kennedy pleads guilty
Detroit Lions safety Kenoy Kennedy has pleaded guilty to drunken driving stemming from a traffic stop in suburban Detroit.
He faces up to 93 days in jail when sentenced in January after Detroit’s season ends.
McNeal faces charges
Cincinnati Bengals rookie receiver Reggie McNeal faces a drug charge stemming from his arrest earlier this week outside a Houston nightclub.
McNeal, already charged with resisting arrest, had a cigarette that contained an antihistamine that is sometimes used as a sedative, Houston police spokesman Gabe Ortiz said.
McNeal is out on bond and scheduled to appear in court next week.