TOMLIN CHIDES BRADSHAW FOR “CHEERLEADER” COMMENT

pittsburgh» Steelers coach Mike Tomlin doesn’t mind Hall of Fame quarterback Terry Bradshaw criticizing his performance. It comes with the job.

Bradshaw likening Tomlin to a “cheerleader,” however? Well that’s another matter entirely. Tomlin said Bradshaw’s comments last week describing Tomlin as no more than a rah-rah guy “fall more into the area of disrespect and unprofessional.”

Tomlin is one of eight coaches in league history to win at least 100 games in his first 10 seasons.

Backup Fitzpatrick now is the starter

B florham park, n.j.» Ryan Fitzpatrick will start at quarterback in the Jets’ season finale against the Bills.

Coach Todd Bowles made the announcement after practice, saying Fitzpatrick was the backup “so now he’s the starter.”

Fitzpatrick steps in for Bryce Petty, who was placed on injured reserve on Monday with a torn labrum in his left (non-throwing) shoulder.

Bengals’ Lewis not considering retirement.

Marvin Lewis intends to return to the Bengals in 2017, disputing a report that the longtime coach will retire at the end of this season.

Rumors have swirled about Lewis’ future as the Bengals (5-9-1) close in on completing their first losing season since 2010.

Money for parade now headed to food bank

B cleveland» The Browns’ first victory of the season also has become a win for the Greater Cleveland Food Bank.

Some fans upset over the team’s poor performance this year were planning a “Perfect Season Parade” if the Browns ended up winless. Over $9,000 had been donated to a fund to help pay for expenses such as security and bathroom facilities for the parade.

But the event was canceled after the Browns beat the Chargers 20-17 on Saturday. Organizers said the money from the parade fund would be given to the food bank.

Footnote.

Left tackle Tyron Smith will not play this weekend for the playoff-bound Cowboys after aggravating an MCL sprain, but coach Jason Garrett said the injury is not believed to be serious.