Peterson and Favre? No problem

The Minnesota Vikings already had the sensational Adrian Peterson at running back.

Now they have Brett Favre under center.

Some critics have wondered whether that will cause an identity crisis in the huddle.

But Dan Pompei of the Chicago Tribune doesn't think so.

"The Vikings didn't become a passing team when they signed Favre," Pompei said. "They became a running team that has the ability to pass when given the invitation.

"And given all the pieces they have in place, that could make them pretty special."

Drink up. The Dallas Cowboys have partnered with a local tequila brand and are introducing a special margarita for their new stadium - the "Cowboyrita."

Jerry Jones may not have given this all the thought it deserves. A cowboy, whether a football player or a ranch hand, rarely wants to be called "Rita."

Damage control. Rifle-armed quarterback Jay Cutler got off to a bad start with the Chicago Bears on Saturday night when he not only threw an interception in the first preseason game, but insulted receiver Devin Hester to boot.

After the game, Cutler told reporters:

"Devin is more of a go-get-it guy; he is not really a back shoulder or jump-up-and-get-it [guy]. You learn from it. We made some mistakes. It's the first preseason game. Luckily enough, we have some time to correct them and keep going."

Many took that as a shot at Hester. The receiver even admitted this week that he was offended until Cutler told him he meant no offense, that he simply was trying to point out that Hester is not tall or known for his leaping ability.

"He's a go-down-the-field-and-get-the-ball [receiver]," Cutler said. "I threw a bad ball, didn't give him a chance. I've got to throw it down there and let him run under it. It was a bad throw on my part."

Where's Horatio? Venus and Serena Williams are reported to be joining the crowded list of minority owners of the Miami Dolphins.

New owner Stephen Ross already has brought in Gloria and Emilio Estefan, Marc Anthony and Jimmy Buffett.

Can Crockett and Tubbs be far behind?

Just wondering. While watching Cliff Lee walk through National League hitters as if they were a bunch of beer-league softball players, you have to ask yourself: Is the gap between the two leagues that wide?

The lefthander has allowed three earned runs in four starts and hasn't had to work out of a jam yet.