The NFL fined Titans defensive coordinator Chuck Cecil $20,000 Thursday for verbal abuse of a game official for his sideline comments in Tennessee’s 42-17 loss to San Diego on Christmas night.

The Titans had just been flagged for roughing Philip Rivers when an official heard Cecil say something. The Titans were penalized another 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Coach Jeff Fisher defended his first-year coordinator, saying Cecil was overheard talking to fellow coaches on his headset. Fisher said Cecil will elaborate when he appeals the fine.

Chris Johnson, the incredible Tennessee Titans running back dashing at a 2,000-yard pace, doesn’t have a chance.

Neither does Philip Rivers, the puckish San Diego Chargers quarterback who has led his team on a seven-game winning streak, rendering irrelevant its 2-3 start.

Even Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre, the ancient miracle man of the frozen North, is finding it difficult to compete with the two beasts devouring the rest of the NFL.

With the season officially entering its fourth quarter, though, we shouldn’t dismiss Favre.