Portis May Sit Sunday Against the Cowboys

Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis revealed yesterday that he has a sprained MCL, which he suffered in the game against the Steelers. Portis is optimistic that resting the remainder of the week may be enough to allow him to play on Sunday, but I wouldn't count on it.

The Redskins number two running back, Ladell Betts sprained his MCL a month ago and still hasn't returned to practice. Every body is different, but it's more likely Portis will miss three or four weeks than it is we'll see him on the field this weekend.

This is surely a huge blow to the Redskins who are sitting at 6-3 and serious playoff contenders. Portis was having an outstanding season and there were many people - myself included - whispering the possibility of MVP accolades. If Portis does miss the game Shaun Alexander or Rock Cartwright are likely to start in his place.

If Portis sits out 3-4 weeks he could miss contests against the Cowboys, Giants and Ravens. If the redskins drop those games they could be kissing their playoff aspirations goodbye.