NFL Preseason: Week 3 – Sunday Recap

Two of the biggest running backs formerly with the Oregon Ducks have been hit with ankle injuries that affected their status for Sunday’s games. A former player has also been cut by one of the NFL teams.

San Francisco 49ers’ LaMichael James didn’t even make the trip to Denver even though he was listed as probable this week. His team defeated the Broncos 29-24, but the highlight of the game was Denver quarterback Peyton Manning finally getting his first touchdown with the new team and looking like his old self. Running back Willis McGahee helped sparked a balance offensive attack for Manning in the first quarter.

Carolina Panthers’ Jonathan Stewart went for 24 yards on eight carries before going down with an ankle injury against the New York Jets. X-rays were negative, and it doesn’t look to be a serious injury. He’s been listed as questionable.

The Panthers defeated the Jets 17-12, and New York was once again held to no touchdowns. It’s the first time since the 1977 Atlanta Falcons that a team has failed to score one touchdown in the first three preseason games; that team went on to finish 7-7, good for second place when they were in the NFC West division but failed to make the playoffs.

Other Notable Former Ducks:

• Linebacker Kenny Rowe had three tackles and a sack, while defensive tackle Will Tukuafu had two tackles, a sack, and one forced fumble, for the 49ers.
• Running back Jeremiah Johnson didn’t produce on the ground, but had three catches for 31 yards for the Broncos.
• Cornerback Cliff Harris was cut by the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. He missed the first preseason game with a minor ankle sprain but did record an interception against the Cleveland Browns on Friday.

Brian Spaen is the lead editor for Autzen Zoo, follow the site on Facebook and Twitter. Read his other work on the Iowa State blog, Clones Confidential, and Lacrosse the Web.