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KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith will miss Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers because of a lacerated spleen, likely suffered in last week's loss to Pittsburgh. The problem wasn't diagnosed until Christmas Day when Smith had a scan after several days with what felt like a stomachache. Chase Daniels will start in Smith's place.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Panthers running back DeAngelo Williams is listed as probable for Sunday's showdown with Atlanta that will decide the NFC South title. Williams has missed the last three games with a broken hand. It's expected the Panthers will rely heavily on Jonathan Stewart, who has averaged 109.2 yards per game and 5.6 yards per carry over the last four games.
BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Browns rookie Connor Shaw is preparing to start the season finale on Sunday against Baltimore, which would make him the 22nd quarterback to start a game for Cleveland since 1999. With Brian Hoyer still slowed by a sore right throwing shoulder, Shaw will likely be behind center when the 7-8 Browns conclude another disappointing season.
NEWARK, N.J. (AP) — The Devils have fired coach Pete DeBoer (deh-BOOR'), after a 12-17-7 start to the season. The 46-year-old DeBoer was hired in 2011-12 and immediately took the Devils to the Stanley Cup finals, where they lost to the Los Angeles Kings. No replacement has been immediately named.
NEW YORK (AP) — Knicks forward Quincy Acy (AY'-cee) has been suspended one game without pay by the NBA for his flagrant foul against Washington's John Wall in a Christmas game. After Acy knocked Wall down late in the game, Wall got up and pushed him. Acy then swung his arm, appeared to hit Wall behind the neck and was ejected. Wall has been fined $15,000 for his part in the altercation.
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