Seahawks Win, NFL News; Illinois' Beckman To Return

Seahawks Crush Saints, Clinch Playoff Spot

(Seattle, WA) -- The Seahawks used their stifling defense to hold the Saints to 188 total yards and beat New Orleans 34-7 on "Monday Night Football" at CenturyLink Field. Michael Bennett returned a Drew Brees fumble 22 yards for a touchdown as Seattle built a 17-0 first-quarter lead. Russell Wilson threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns while rushing for 47 yards on eight carries. Marshawn Lynch rumbled for 45 more yards as Seattle took commanding control of the NFC and clinched a playoff berth in the process. The 'Hawks are now 11-1 and two games clear of the 9-3 Saints for homefield advantage throughout the postseason. Brees was held to 147 yards through the air and hit Jimmy Graham on a TD pass. New Orleans managed just 44 yards on the ground in defeat.

Rams Return To Work Wednesday

(St. Louis, MO) -- The Rams return to practice Wednesday to prepare for Sunday's game at Arizona. The Rams suffered a 23-13 setback at San Francisco this past Sunday and are last in the NFC West at 5-7. The Cardinals are 7-5 after losing 24-21 at Philadelphia.

Bears' Cutler Unsure About Return

(Lake Forest, IL) -- Bears quarterback Jay Cutler isn't sure about returning next week to play the Cowboys. On his weekly radio show on ESPN 1000, Cutler says he's yet to be fully cleared by the medical staff. Coach Marc Trestman continues to label Cutler as "week to week" with an ankle sprain.

Illinois' Beckman To Return Next Season

(Champaign, IL) -- Tim Beckman is returning as head football coach at Illinois. Fighting Illini athletic director Mike Thomas confirmed Beckman's status on Monday. Illinois lost 37-34 to Northwestern on Saturday to finish 4-8. The Illini were 2-10 in Beckman's first year.
 

Monday, December 2 Scoreboard

NFL

Seattle Seahawks 34, New Orleans Saints 7