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The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

The Atlanta Falcons not only have to keep an eye on the key offensive weapons of the Detroit Lions, it appears the offense will have to be fully aware of the play of DeAndre Levy from the linebacker position.

The unknown player is making a name for himself this season on a much improved defensive unit.

The Falcons have scouted him intensely leading up to Sunday's game at Wembley Stadium and know that he'll be worth keeping an eye on.

"He was a sub-4.6 guy coming out," said Mike Smith of Levy, who played his college ball at Wisconsin. "He's a guy that comes downhill and he's very quick. When you are having to put four hands on those defensive linemen and he's coming downhill, he's winning a lot of his battles because of his speed. If you come off too quickly, that's when the defensive tackles will make their plays.”

Smith said the Lions don't do a whole lot of blitzing because of the strength of their defensive line in creating their own pressure, so Levy will be pivotal to watch when it comes to the run game.

With the possibility of wide receiver Harry Douglas getting back into action Sunday, the extra target could help keep Levy honest when it comes to playing the run, but getting a helmet on him during run plays will be crucial to having success on the ground.

"He's definitely playing really lights-out football — having a great year," running back Steven Jackson said Thursday. "He's one of the guys that I've watched all week. His explosiveness and sideline-to-sideline speed, once he recognizes or sees the ball, he does a really good job of avoiding blocks, getting to it and also doing a good job of getting his D-linemen off the double team because he's so fast."

DOUGLAS BACK AT PRACTICE (PER ALANTAFALCONS.COM)

Head coach Mike Smith said before practice Thursday that wide receiver Harry Douglas would be a limited participant, something he hasn't been since Week 4.

It's been 10 practices since wide receiver Harry Douglas has been a participant at any level, but the streak will end Thursday as head coach Mike Smith announced before the day's session that Douglas would be limited.

Douglas injured his foot in a Week 3 win over Tampa Bay and was scheduled to do a rehab run Wednesday despite being a non-participant in practice.

Defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux is expected to be a non-participant again Thursday, but Smith said he's hoping to get him some limited reps on Friday.

"We'll have to see how both those guys handle their workload over the next couple of days to see what their game status will be," Smith said Thursday.

Heading into this Saturday's list of games, potential for upsets and revised rankings was sure to be a list of topic's placed near the backburner-not only in the world of college football but for the Irish as well.

Not many expected teams like OU or UCLA to lose games this past Saturday.

Alabama was a favorite and Texas A&M was on a path to the Final 4 at seasons end.

Notre Dame was not concerned with being the underdog on a cold and wet day, nor their slotted rank afterwords.

Their focused on each Saturday and their play dictates that thought. Adversity struck a blow before the Rice game, penalty and turnover plagued games have come and gone and injuries have healed.

Most teams would focus on off-field issues and attempt to overcome adversity and contend with projected rankings.

It's clear the Irish have moved past rankings and suspensions-but the cloud still remains.

The lingering case regarding it's 5 suspended players continues, with all 5 having finished with the hearing phase of things on Friday.

What also is transpiring is a closer look and evaluation of the entire process and the fact that so much time has elapsed with a decision yet to be made where penalties-if any-are concerned.

"If it is determined that student-athletes would have been ineligible during past competition, Notre Dame will voluntarily impose appropriate sanctions, report our findings to the NCAA, and await its independent review," Paul J. Browne, vice president for public affairs and communications, said in the release.

"Due to the complexity of cases involving multiple disciplines, comprehensive honesty committees were impaneled to review memoranda and extensive exhibits compiled in connection with the general counsel's initial inquiry, interview witnesses and the subjects of the hearings, and potentially impose sanctions subject to appeal," Browne said in the release. "A faculty reporter was also appointed to review voluminous material collected during the general counsel's investigation to identify cases for the comprehensive committees' review."

On the field, it's very clear that Notre Dame has turned the page on it's defense-which has climbed into the top 10- and Golson is a leader and player that will win games on his own.

Golson threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Ben Koyack in the corner of the end zone with 61 seconds left to give Notre Dame it's 5th win in 2014.

The top ranked defense of Stanford gave up 370 yards of offense, while the Irish defense yielded only 205 total yards.

205 total yards, only 1.5 yards per rushing attempt and a modest 4.4 yards per pass completion and only 14 first downs on the day.

Ty Montgomery for Stanford was a primary focus heading into the game, but was of little factor at the end of the day, which is primarily the handy work of Cole Luke and Jaylon Smith. Montgomery finished the afternoon with only 26 yards and Luke ended the day for the Irish with 2 interceptions.

Heading into Saturday, one favorable matchup Stanford was looking forward to was the size gap between the larger receivers for the Cardinal and the alleged smaller unit for the Irish on defense. Luke proved the theory is meaningless.

To end the game, Elijah Shumate sacked quarterback Kevin Hogan who was also flagged for intentional grounding on the play, which cleared the remaining 10 seconds off the game clock.

Shadowing 2012 and the performance the defense put on that year may be closer to reality, and the Irish continue on this path without it's top backend player-KeiVarae Russell.

And to stamp the rankings of both defenses combined, on the day the punters totaled 492 yards.

Another major positive for Notre Dame on this day was the sole penalty for 10 yards, along with only 2 turnovers.

Against the nation's top ranked defense, Notre Dame had little trouble establishing it's passing attack. Golson was 20 of 43 on the wet day, with a 17 yard touchdown to Chris Brown and the eventual game winner to Koyack late.

The Irish receivers averaged over 12 yards per reception.

In the aftermath, the Irish vaulted into the top 5 and the dredded 'Heisman' talk again has surfaced for an Irish player with Golson.

The Irish are focused on one thing and that's winning each game, one at a time.

Golson may end up on stage alongside Todd Gurley and others, but again- it's not the goal.

The Irish are doing things this season unlike what many expected.

Several pundits had the Irish losing to Michigan and Stanford at this point.

The defense was to be but a shell of any previous unit that took the field.

Golson was questioned if he would morph into the player of 2012.

Clearly the Irish have 2 favorable areas that can win alot of games and take a team into the playoffs at seasons end:

They have stamped the position of quarterback with the resurgence of the play and leadership through Golson. He will win games if needed and he will rack up stats when the window presents itself.

And the defense, in all it's youth- is not losing games as projected. The play of freshmen Drew Tranquill and Andrew Trumbetti has enhanced a frontline that is now becoming a force offenses may not have anticipated weeks ago.

Notre Dame must now prepare for North Carolina and not do the unthinkable of looking forward to Florida State.

"Upset Weekend" has passed with the magnitude not seen in year's.

But it can happen again, even if for only one game.

Currently, 'upset' is pinned to next Saturday's game in South Bend down in Chapel Hill.

Heading into this Saturday's list of games, potential for upsets and revised rankings was sure to be a list of topic's placed near the backburner-not only in the world of college football but for the Irish as well.

Not many expected teams like OU or UCLA to lose games this past Saturday.

Alabama was a favorite and Texas A&M was on a path to the Final 4 at seasons end.

Notre Dame was not concerned with being the underdog on a cold and wet day, nor their slotted rank afterwords.

Their focused on each Saturday and their play dictates that thought. Adversity struck a blow before the Rice game, penalty and turnover plagued games have come and gone and injuries have healed.

Most teams would focus on off-field issues and attempt to overcome adversity and contend with projected rankings.

It's clear the Irish have moved past rankings and suspensions-but the cloud still remains.

The lingering case regarding it's 5 suspended players continues, with all 5 having finished with the hearing phase of things on Friday.

What also is transpiring is a closer look and evaluation of the entire process and the fact that so much time has elapsed with a decision yet to be made where penalties-if any-are concerned.

"If it is determined that student-athletes would have been ineligible during past competition, Notre Dame will voluntarily impose appropriate sanctions, report our findings to the NCAA, and await its independent review," Paul J. Browne, vice president for public affairs and communications, said in the release.

"Due to the complexity of cases involving multiple disciplines, comprehensive honesty committees were impaneled to review memoranda and extensive exhibits compiled in connection with the general counsel's initial inquiry, interview witnesses and the subjects of the hearings, and potentially impose sanctions subject to appeal," Browne said in the release. "A faculty reporter was also appointed to review voluminous material collected during the general counsel's investigation to identify cases for the comprehensive committees' review."

On the field, it's very clear that Notre Dame has turned the page on it's defense-which has climbed into the top 10- and Golson is a leader and player that will win games on his own.

Golson threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Ben Koyack in the corner of the end zone with 61 seconds left to give Notre Dame it's 5th win in 2014.

The top ranked defense of Stanford gave up 370 yards of offense, while the Irish defense yielded only 205 total yards.

205 total yards, only 1.5 yards per rushing attempt and a modest 4.4 yards per pass completion and only 14 first downs on the day.

Ty Montgomery for Stanford was a primary focus heading into the game, but was of little factor at the end of the day, which is primarily the handy work of Cole Luke and Jaylon Smith. Montgomery finished the afternoon with only 26 yards and Luke ended the day for the Irish with 2 interceptions.

Heading into Saturday, one favorable matchup Stanford was looking forward to was the size gap between the larger receivers for the Cardinal and the alleged smaller unit for the Irish on defense. Luke proved the theory is meaningless.

To end the game, Elijah Shumate sacked quarterback Kevin Hogan who was also flagged for intentional grounding on the play, which cleared the remaining 10 seconds off the game clock.

Shadowing 2012 and the performance the defense put on that year may be closer to reality, and the Irish continue on this path without it's top backend player-KeiVarae Russell.

And to stamp the rankings of both defenses combined, on the day the punters totaled 492 yards.

Another major positive for Notre Dame on this day was the sole penalty for 10 yards, along with only 2 turnovers.

Against the nation's top ranked defense, Notre Dame had little trouble establishing it's passing attack. Golson was 20 of 43 on the wet day, with a 17 yard touchdown to Chris Brown and the eventual game winner to Koyack late.

The Irish receivers averaged over 12 yards per reception.

In the aftermath, the Irish vaulted into the top 5 and the dredded 'Heisman' talk again has surfaced for an Irish player with Golson.

The Irish are focused on one thing and that's winning each game, one at a time.

Golson may end up on stage alongside Todd Gurley and others, but again- it's not the goal.

The Irish are doing things this season unlike what many expected.

Several pundits had the Irish losing to Michigan and Stanford at this point.

The defense was to be but a shell of any previous unit that took the field.

Golson was questioned if he would morph into the player of 2012.

Clearly the Irish have 2 favorable areas that can win alot of games and take a team into the playoffs at seasons end:

They have stamped the position of quarterback with the resurgence of the play and leadership through Golson. He will win games if needed and he will rack up stats when the window presents itself.

And the defense, in all it's youth- is not losing games as projected. The play of freshmen Drew Tranquill and Andrew Trumbetti has enhanced a frontline that is now becoming a force offenses may not have anticipated weeks ago.

Notre Dame must now prepare for North Carolina and not do the unthinkable of looking forward to Florida State.

"Upset Weekend" has passed with the magnitude not seen in year's.

But it can happen again, even if for only one game.

Currently, 'upset' is pinned to next Saturday's game in South Bend down in Chapel Hill.

Heading into this Saturday's list of games, potential for upsets and revised rankings was sure to be a list of topic's placed near the backburner-not only in the world of college football but for the Irish as well.

Not many expected teams like OU or UCLA to lose games this past Saturday.

Alabama was a favorite and Texas A&M was on a path to the Final 4 at seasons end.

Notre Dame was not concerned with being the underdog on a cold and wet day, nor their slotted rank afterwords.

Their focused on each Saturday and their play dictates that thought. Adversity struck a blow before the Rice game, penalty and turnover plagued games have come and gone and injuries have healed.

Most teams would focus on off-field issues and attempt to overcome adversity and contend with projected rankings.

It's clear the Irish have moved past rankings and suspensions-but the cloud still remains.

The lingering case regarding it's 5 suspended players continues, with all 5 having finished with the hearing phase of things on Friday.

What also is transpiring is a closer look and evaluation of the entire process and the fact that so much time has elapsed with a decision yet to be made where penalties-if any-are concerned.

"If it is determined that student-athletes would have been ineligible during past competition, Notre Dame will voluntarily impose appropriate sanctions, report our findings to the NCAA, and await its independent review," Paul J. Browne, vice president for public affairs and communications, said in the release.

"Due to the complexity of cases involving multiple disciplines, comprehensive honesty committees were impaneled to review memoranda and extensive exhibits compiled in connection with the general counsel's initial inquiry, interview witnesses and the subjects of the hearings, and potentially impose sanctions subject to appeal," Browne said in the release. "A faculty reporter was also appointed to review voluminous material collected during the general counsel's investigation to identify cases for the comprehensive committees' review."

On the field, it's very clear that Notre Dame has turned the page on it's defense-which has climbed into the top 10- and Golson is a leader and player that will win games on his own.

Golson threw a 23-yard touchdown pass to Ben Koyack in the corner of the end zone with 61 seconds left to give Notre Dame it's 5th win in 2014.

The top ranked defense of Stanford gave up 370 yards of offense, while the Irish defense yielded only 205 total yards.

205 total yards, only 1.5 yards per rushing attempt and a modest 4.4 yards per pass completion and only 14 first downs on the day.

Ty Montgomery for Stanford was a primary focus heading into the game, but was of little factor at the end of the day, which is primarily the handy work of Cole Luke and Jaylon Smith. Montgomery finished the afternoon with only 26 yards and Luke ended the day for the Irish with 2 interceptions.

Heading into Saturday, one favorable matchup Stanford was looking forward to was the size gap between the larger receivers for the Cardinal and the alleged smaller unit for the Irish on defense. Luke proved the theory is meaningless.

To end the game, Elijah Shumate sacked quarterback Kevin Hogan who was also flagged for intentional grounding on the play, which cleared the remaining 10 seconds off the game clock.

Shadowing 2012 and the performance the defense put on that year may be closer to reality, and the Irish continue on this path without it's top backend player-KeiVarae Russell.

And to stamp the rankings of both defenses combined, on the day the punters totaled 492 yards.

Another major positive for Notre Dame on this day was the sole penalty for 10 yards, along with only 2 turnovers.

Against the nation's top ranked defense, Notre Dame had little trouble establishing it's passing attack. Golson was 20 of 43 on the wet day, with a 17 yard touchdown to Chris Brown and the eventual game winner to Koyack late.

The Irish receivers averaged over 12 yards per reception.

In the aftermath, the Irish vaulted into the top 5 and the dredded 'Heisman' talk again has surfaced for an Irish player with Golson.

The Irish are focused on one thing and that's winning each game, one at a time.

Golson may end up on stage alongside Todd Gurley and others, but again- it's not the goal.

The Irish are doing things this season unlike what many expected.

Several pundits had the Irish losing to Michigan and Stanford at this point.

The defense was to be but a shell of any previous unit that took the field.

Golson was questioned if he would morph into the player of 2012.

Clearly the Irish have 2 favorable areas that can win alot of games and take a team into the playoffs at seasons end:

They have stamped the position of quarterback with the resurgence of the play and leadership through Golson. He will win games if needed and he will rack up stats when the window presents itself.

And the defense, in all it's youth- is not losing games as projected. The play of freshmen Drew Tranquill and Andrew Trumbetti has enhanced a frontline that is now becoming a force offenses may not have anticipated weeks ago.

Notre Dame must now prepare for North Carolina and not do the unthinkable of looking forward to Florida State.

"Upset Weekend" has passed with the magnitude not seen in year's.

But it can happen again, even if for only one game.

Currently, 'upset' is pinned to next Saturday's game in South Bend down in Chapel Hill.

They aren’t The Steel Curtain defense or Jack Lambert or even Jack Ham. Donnie Shell and Rod Woodson aren’t roaming in the secondary with Mel Blount looking to know your head off. They are the Steelers defense, however, which could present a major issue for the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

Just the thought of the name could send chills up the spines of the younger Jaguars offensive starters.

In particular, facing the Steelers means facing a defense coordinated by Dick LeBeau, who is known for blitzing rookie quarterbacks and having success doing so.

“Obviously, they do a bunch of different things,” Bortles said as the Jaguars (0-4) prepared to play the Steelers (2-2) at EverBank Field Sunday at 1 p.m. “They’re solid at what they do. They’re an aggressive defense that goes after it and attacks the ball. We’re going to have to be sharp and exact with what we do,” according to Jaguars.com.

That’s particularly true against rookie quarterbacks.

The Steelers are 17-2 against rookie quarterbacks in LeBeau’s tenure as defensive coordinator, and Roethlisberger didn’t play in either loss. One loss was to Baltimore in the 2007 regular-season finale after the Steelers clinched their playoff positioning. The other loss came to Cleveland in 2013, a game that featured eight Steelers fumbles.

PASZTOR TO START, BRANCH PROBABLE

According to Jaguars.com, Austin Pasztor’s wait appears over.

It also appears the Jaguars will have their 2014 sacks leader on Sunday when they play host to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Pasztor, a third-year right tackle out since Preseason Week 2 after sustaining a fractured hand in Chicago, likely will make his 2014 regular-season debut Sunday, with Head Coach Gus Bradley saying Friday that Pasztor likely will start.

“He’s going pretty good,” Bradley said Friday as the Jaguars (0-4) prepared to play the Steelers (2-2) at EverBank Field Sunday at 1 p.m. “I think we wanted to see how he handled it with the cast on, where it was on his hand. He has handled it pretty good . . . This whole week, you could see him getting more comfortable.”

Defensive end Andre Branch, who leads the team with three sacks this season, is listed as probable on the team’s injury report. He worked limited in practice Friday after missing Thursday’s work with a hip flexor injury.

Wide receiver Cecil Shorts III (hamstring), wide receiver Marqise Lee (hamstring), tight end Mickey Shuler (illness) and cornerback Dwayne Gratz (concussion) were ruled out.

Pasztor opened training camp as the starting right tackle and with Pasztor’s injury, Cameron Bradfield started the first two games of the regular season at the spot. The Jaguars released Bradfield after the offensive line allowed 10 sacks at Washington in Week 2, and Sam Young started the last two games.

They aren’t The Steel Curtain defense or Jack Lambert or even Jack Ham. Donnie Shell and Rod Woodson aren’t roaming in the secondary with Mel Blount looking to know your head off. They are the Steelers defense, however, which could present a major issue for the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday.

Just the thought of the name could send chills up the spines of the younger Jaguars offensive starters.

In particular, facing the Steelers means facing a defense coordinated by Dick LeBeau, who is known for blitzing rookie quarterbacks and having success doing so.

“Obviously, they do a bunch of different things,” Bortles said as the Jaguars (0-4) prepared to play the Steelers (2-2) at EverBank Field Sunday at 1 p.m. “They’re solid at what they do. They’re an aggressive defense that goes after it and attacks the ball. We’re going to have to be sharp and exact with what we do,” according to Jaguars.com.

That’s particularly true against rookie quarterbacks.

The Steelers are 17-2 against rookie quarterbacks in LeBeau’s tenure as defensive coordinator, and Roethlisberger didn’t play in either loss. One loss was to Baltimore in the 2007 regular-season finale after the Steelers clinched their playoff positioning. The other loss came to Cleveland in 2013, a game that featured eight Steelers fumbles.

PASZTOR TO START, BRANCH PROBABLE

According to Jaguars.com, Austin Pasztor’s wait appears over.

It also appears the Jaguars will have their 2014 sacks leader on Sunday when they play host to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Pasztor, a third-year right tackle out since Preseason Week 2 after sustaining a fractured hand in Chicago, likely will make his 2014 regular-season debut Sunday, with Head Coach Gus Bradley saying Friday that Pasztor likely will start.

“He’s going pretty good,” Bradley said Friday as the Jaguars (0-4) prepared to play the Steelers (2-2) at EverBank Field Sunday at 1 p.m. “I think we wanted to see how he handled it with the cast on, where it was on his hand. He has handled it pretty good . . . This whole week, you could see him getting more comfortable.”

Defensive end Andre Branch, who leads the team with three sacks this season, is listed as probable on the team’s injury report. He worked limited in practice Friday after missing Thursday’s work with a hip flexor injury.

Wide receiver Cecil Shorts III (hamstring), wide receiver Marqise Lee (hamstring), tight end Mickey Shuler (illness) and cornerback Dwayne Gratz (concussion) were ruled out.

Pasztor opened training camp as the starting right tackle and with Pasztor’s injury, Cameron Bradfield started the first two games of the regular season at the spot. The Jaguars released Bradfield after the offensive line allowed 10 sacks at Washington in Week 2, and Sam Young started the last two games.

Do you play Fantasy Football? If the answer is yes, this week is the most exciting opportunity in the history of the game. Win a MILLION DOLLARS playing Fantasy Football this week only! Go to www.FFChamps.com/million and get in on the action.

If you've waited to pick your defense last, you might have to do some searching and have a little luck.  Let's look at a worst case scenario and assume you have less than $2500 left to spend on your defense.

Kansas City Chiefs  $2300

One advantage you'll have by picking the Chiefs is that not many people are going to have them in their lineup. Although San Francisco hasn't been the San Fran of old, their name and recent success over the past few years will keep most people away from the Chiefs defense.  But it's not all bad news for the Chiefs.  So far the Chiefs have held every quarterback they've faced to less than 270 yards.  And while they've faced some less than stellar talent at QB, they have faced Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.  Manning threw three touchdowns on them, but Colin Kaepernick is no Peyton Manning.  They've also been decent against wide receivers, allowing only one touchdown a game to opposing WR's.  They've only had two WR's to go for more than 100 yards against them (Emmanuel Sanders and Brandon LaFell).  They've been even better against running backs, not allowing any RB touchdowns whether receiving or running.  Lamar Miller is the only RB to go over 100 yards against them.  While they have allowed four tight end touchdowns, they keep their yardage low.  Through four games the Chiefs have allowed 26 points versus the Titans (fluke game), 24 versus Denver, 15 versus Miami, and 14 versus the Patriots. Kaepernick has also been sacked 10 times and have thrown the ball to the other team four times.  The Chiefs are heading in the right direction and you could do worse.

And that's it!  There is absolutely no one else I would want at less then $2500.  The Jets may be worth a look, as Rex Ryan has had moderate success in defending Philip Rivers and the Jets run defense is legit.  But I don't want to go against Rivers as hot as he is right now.  Baltimore might be an option, but not against Andrew Luck.  So if you have to go with someone who is this cheap, the Chiefs are your best bet.  

Make sure to check out all of the the other "The Final Spot" articles and then go set your lineup and win a million. www.FFChamps.com/million

Do you play Fantasy Football? If the answer is yes, this week is the most exciting opportunity in the history of the game. Win a MILLION DOLLARS playing Fantasy Football this week only! Go to www.FFChamps.com/million and get in on the action.

If you've waited to pick your defense last, you might have to do some searching and have a little luck.  Let's look at a worst case scenario and assume you have less than $2500 left to spend on your defense.

Kansas City Chiefs  $2300

One advantage you'll have by picking the Chiefs is that not many people are going to have them in their lineup. Although San Francisco hasn't been the San Fran of old, their name and recent success over the past few years will keep most people away from the Chiefs defense.  But it's not all bad news for the Chiefs.  So far the Chiefs have held every quarterback they've faced to less than 270 yards.  And while they've faced some less than stellar talent at QB, they have faced Peyton Manning and Tom Brady.  Manning threw three touchdowns on them, but Colin Kaepernick is no Peyton Manning.  They've also been decent against wide receivers, allowing only one touchdown a game to opposing WR's.  They've only had two WR's to go for more than 100 yards against them (Emmanuel Sanders and Brandon LaFell).  They've been even better against running backs, not allowing any RB touchdowns whether receiving or running.  Lamar Miller is the only RB to go over 100 yards against them.  While they have allowed four tight end touchdowns, they keep their yardage low.  Through four games the Chiefs have allowed 26 points versus the Titans (fluke game), 24 versus Denver, 15 versus Miami, and 14 versus the Patriots. Kaepernick has also been sacked 10 times and have thrown the ball to the other team four times.  The Chiefs are heading in the right direction and you could do worse.

And that's it!  There is absolutely no one else I would want at less then $2500.  The Jets may be worth a look, as Rex Ryan has had moderate success in defending Philip Rivers and the Jets run defense is legit.  But I don't want to go against Rivers as hot as he is right now.  Baltimore might be an option, but not against Andrew Luck.  So if you have to go with someone who is this cheap, the Chiefs are your best bet.  

Make sure to check out all of the the other "The Final Spot" articles and then go set your lineup and win a million. www.FFChamps.com/million

Not everyone from the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft received a contract extension. Only the first-round picks get the fifth-year option, while less than half of the players in the second round received a contract extension. Some of the draftees have been disappointing thus far, while others have played to expectations but have yet to be resigned. This draft was filled with a lot of talent, including a deep group of linebackers. Four linebackers in the second round alone, though, have yet to be resigned. 

Jabaal Sheard, Browns Linebacker 
Draft Position: 37th Overall

Jabaal Sheard was impressive in his rookie season, recording 8.5 sacks as a 4-3 defensive end, but dropped off a little in his sophomore year. He played as a 3-4 outside linebacker in 2013, and sacked opposing quarterbacks 5.5 times in 13 games. Sheard has shown the speed and power to be a consistent threat, and he could step up and be that player in 2014. Sheard and the Browns have already talked about contract extensions, but if Sheard waits until after this season, he could be in for a big bonus. The second-round pick will surely find a team if the Browns do not give him the money he wants.

Akeem Ayers, Titans Linebacker
Draft Position: 39th Overall

Akeem Ayers has a lot of potential, especially in the Titans\' new defensive scheme. Ayers played very well as a 4-3 linebacker, but he has the ability to be a great 3-4 edge rusher. With good pass rushing potential - six sacks in 2012 - he may be in for a breakout season. At 6-foot-5 with good lateral agility, he has the physical traits to record double-digit sacks. The Titans defense, as a whole, has a lot of potential, and it will be in their best interest to resign Ayers.

Bruce Carter, Cowboys Linebacker
Draft Position: 40th Overall

Between all of the linebackers taken in the second round of the draft, Bruce Carter is the most athletic. He is not a good pass rush like the others, though, but that is not too bad in the Cowboys\' 4-3 scheme. Carter started most of the last two years, but has been average at best. With so much athleticism, he has so much potential, but he and Justin Durant will be relied on to step up in place of Sean Lee. Carter will be in for a rough season, but it is almost certain that a team will sign him after this year.

Jarvis Jenkins, Redskins Defensive End
Draft Position: 41th Overall

Jarvis Jenkins has been decent throughout his career, but he will look to improve this year. The Redskins\' defense got much better after signing Jason Hatcher. Jenkins will look to start opposite of Hatcher, and he will have to compete with Stephen Bowen and Kedric Golston. Bowen started ten games and Golston started eight, while Jenkins only started two. Jenkins has shown plenty of promise, plenty more than two nine-year veterans. Jenkins has potential, so even if he does not start, another team will give him a shot next year.

Brooks Reed, Texans Linebacker
Draft Position: 42th Overall

Brooks Reed has proven to be a decent pass rusher, but he has yet to top his rookie total of six sacks. With Jadeveon Clowney now on the team, and Whitney Mercilus set to start on the left side, Reed is projected to move inside. Reed has been decent, but whether or not the Texans resign him will certainly depend on how well he deals with the position change in 2014.

Rahim Moore, Broncos Safety
Draft Position: 45th Overall

Besides the play that (sort of) lost the Conference Championships for the Broncos back in 2012, Rahim Moore has been a solid player. Moore missed a lot of last season, though, and the Broncos want to see him play as good, if not better, than before. With great players around him in the secondary, it looks like he will fare well. The Broncos are very likely to resign Moore after this season.

Marcus Gilchrist, Chargers Safety
Draft Position: 50th Overall

Marcus Gilchrist came out of college as a cornerback, but has successfully transitioned to a pro-caliber safety. Gilchrist may be a little small, 5-foot-10 and 198 pounds, but he has played well. The Chargers\' secondary looks to be much better this year, and Gilchrist will be a big part of that. Unless Gilchrist takes a step back in 2014, it is almost certain that the Chargers will resign him.


Da\'Quan Bowers, Buccaneers Defensive End
Draft Position: 51st Overall

Unlike the last few draftees that have been middle-of-the-road players, Da\'Quan Bowers has been a bit of a disappointment. As a 4-3 defensive end, Bowers has recorded a measly 5.5 sacks. While he has actually played better than his first-round counterpart, Adrian Clayborn, he has seen much less time and production. Michael Johnson has the right spot on lock down, so Bowers will have to compete with Clayborn for playing time on the left. Unless Bowers tops his career sack total in 2014, it is unlikely that the Buccaneers resign him, but it is also unlikely that he will remain unsigned through the free agency period.

Stephen Paea, Bears Defensive Tackle
Draft Position: 53th Overall

The workout warrior has not quite lived up to expectations, but he has played well at times. Run stopping defensive tackles are not expected to record gaudy stats, but that is the problem; Stephen Paea is just a two-down player. The Bears picked up rookies Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton on the second day of the 2014 draft and Jeremiah Ratliff in free agency. With all three players expected to get extensive playing time, and are signed for 2+ years, it is highly unlikely that the Bears resign Paea. It would not be surprising if another team picked him up in free agency, though, as his strength is elite.

Brandon Harris, Texans Cornerback
Draft Position: 60th Overall

The second-round pick has yet to start a game or record an interception. Stuck behind Johnathan Joseph and Kareem Jackson in 2014, it is unlikely that he will start, but he may record his first interception. It seems a bit too early to truly call Brandon Harris a bust, but he has done very little over his three year career. Some people look at Harris as a lost cause. If he does not impress this year, it may be it for him.