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.

Hopes are that Westbrook will be ready to be back in the line up for Sundays game against the 49ers after two concussions that have kept him off the field for several weeks.

Brian Westbrook hasn’t made his usual contributions this season but it looks like he may get another crack at it this Sunday against the 49ers. According to ProFootballTalk, the Eagles have released running back P.J. Hill and replaced him with tight end Martin Rucker. Dropping a running back could very well mean that Westbrook may be ready to make his return.

During the Denver Broncos-Indianapolis Colts game at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Colts – namely Peyton Manning – went through the proverbial roller coaster of ups and downs as he did well early on, played like his brother Eli a bit later before finishing strong. Manning threw two early touchdowns, would proceed to throw some untimely interceptions, then as his custom, lead the Colts on a drive in the fourth quarter. The end result? I think that if you’ve followed the Colts this season, then you probably know. But for those who casually follow the team, Indianapolis held off Denver 28-16 to gain home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs.