Around the NFL: Dilfer rebuilding a bridge

There are a lot of Super Bowl themes coursing through this week’s NFL schedule. Among them, Arizona’s Kurt Warner will play at St. Louis, where he won a championship ring; New England’s Bill Belichick will face his old defensive coordinator, Browns’ head Coach Romeo Crennel , a key member of the coaching staff on the three championship teams; and, in a rematch of Super Bowl XL, Seattle will play Pittsburgh.

But perhaps the most compelling Super Bowl story line will take place in San Francisco, where the 49ers play host to Baltimore. Because of a shoulder injury to Alex Smith, Trent Dilfer will play quarterback for San Francisco. He won a Super Bowl with the Ravens six years ago, then – in a move that startled the veteran passer – was released after the 2000 season.

After holding a grudge since then, Dilfer extended an olive branch to Ravens coach Brian Billick during a conference call with Baltimore reporters this week.

“I want to use this opportunity to publicly apologize to Brian for that bitterness,” Dilfer said. “I’m going to make a point to see him on Sunday. He’s been the man in this deal and I haven’t. He’s been the adult.

“I’ve been the childish one, and I want to end that right now. I still strongly disagree with it, but there’s a difference in disagreeing with a decision and letting that decision bring bitterness in somebody.”

Clearly, Billick is willing to end the impasse. Shortly before Dilfer made his apology, Billick told reporters: “We’ve been down this road several times. I would love to talk to Trent. I’d love to say hello to Trent and wish him well and see how he’s doing.”

Porter makes hollow guarantee

Remember when Miami linebacker Joey Porter guaranteed a victory over Oakland? Well, not only did the Raiders win last Sunday, but they ran for 299 yards, the second-most rushing yards the Dolphins have ever given up in a regular-season game.

Porter had just three tackles.

Turmoil in Reid-ville

Rumors swirled this week that Philadelphia coach Andy Reid is on the verge of retiring, mostly because of the legal entanglements of his sons. On and off the record, Eagles executives have denied those reports.

Reid’s two oldest sons are awaiting sentencing on drug and gun charges. Team President Joe Banner said the coach’s job performance has not been affected by his family issues.