INSIDE THE HELMET \ How local NFL players fared

Pierre Garcon (wide receiver, Mount Union, Colts) — The rookie kick returner was avoided by the Browns Sunday in Indianapolis’ 10-6 win. Garcon is averaging 21.1 yards per kickoff return this season.

John Greco (offensive guard, Boardman, Rams) — The rookie lineman from Toledo played but didn’t start in St. Louis’ 16-12 loss to the Dolphins Sunday. The Rams did pretty well offensively, finished with 278 total yards and possessing the ball for 31 minutes, 47 seconds.

Marlin Jackson (cornerback, Sharon, Colts) — The fourth-year DB from Michigan had six tackles in Indianapolis’ win over the Browns. He’s got 47 tackles for the season.

Antwaun Molden (cornerback, Warren Harding, Texans) — Houston plays host to the Jaguars tonight.

Keiwan Ratliff (cornerback, Colts) — The Youngstown native had an interesting day in Indianapolis’ win over the Browns. He didn’t record any defensive statistics, but returned a couple of punts … for no yards, and he fumbled (and recovered) one return.

Anthony Smith (cornerback, Hubbard, Steelers) — The third-year DB from Syracuse had a tackle in the Steelers’ impressive 33-10 win over the Patriots. Smith has played in every game except the opener this season and has six tackles.

Brad Smith (tight end, Chaney, Jets) — The third-year all-purpose standout from Missouri had a checkered day in the Jets’ 34-17 loss to the Broncos. Smith caught a passs for 10 yards, but his fumble in the first quarter — he was in the shotgun at quarterback — was returned by Vernon Fox for a 23-yard touchdown.

Steve Vallos (offensive lineman, Boardman, Seahawks) — The rookie from Wake Forest made his first career start — at center — Thursday at Dallas in Seattle’s 34-9 loss. The Seahawks gained 322 total yards, including 287 through the air, but quarterback Matt Hasselback was sacked seven times.

Staff report