Brister Becomes Starter Again

Adrift without a victory and hoping to save their season, the champion Denver Broncos on Wednesday switched quarterbacks for the second time in five weeks.

They benched Brian Griese and promoted Bubby Brister to starter.

Coach Mike Shanahan said Brister “gives us the best chance to win now. We’re not playing for the future.”

Brister, 37, will start Sunday at Oakland.

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Dan Marino tried to defuse the Miami Dolphins’ quarterback controversy, taking the high road in response to Coach Jimmy Johnson’s criticism of him.

“My play has been inconsistent,” Marino acknowledged. “I’m very critical of myself, probably more so than anybody else.”

After Monday’s 23-18 loss to Buffalo, Johnson said Marino became flustered by the Bills’ pass rush and was at fault on two interceptions and a fumble returned for a touchdown.

Johnson announced rookie running back Cecil Collins will make his first start Sunday at Indianapolis in place of Karim Abdul-Jabbar.

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When the New York Jets play the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday night, star receiver Wayne Chrebet might be in the lineup. He has been listed as doubtful but returned to light practice from a broken left foot after working out for Coach Bill Parcells, who was satisfied enough to give Chrebet the OK.