Marino Is Still Questionable

An ailing Dan Marino missed practice for the second consecutive day Thursday, making it less likely he’ll play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Miami Dolphins’ quarterback is improving but still unable to throw well because of spasms and weakness in a muscle between his neck and right shoulder.

If Marino can’t play, Damon Huard will make his first NFL start. Huard came off the bench last week and rallied Miami to a 31-30 victory at New England.

“Dan’s getting better,” Coach Jimmy Johnson said. “We’ll make the decision Sunday morning.”

Marino is officially listed as questionable, indicating a 50-50 chance he’ll play. Offensive coordinator Kippy Brown said Marino could start without practicing.

“He’s practiced enough in his time,” Brown said with a chuckle. “Dan’s been in every meeting and he knows the game plan. He could play--if he’s healthy.”

But because Marino has missed the week’s two most important practices, many of his teammates anticipate that Huard will get the nod.

“Now that we know Damon is starting, we’ll circle the wagons,” receiver O.J. McDuffie said. “He just needs to stay away from turnovers and negative plays, and we’ll be fine.”

The Eagles (2-4) have won two in a row. They faced a first-time starter at quarterback last week, beating rookie Cade McNown and the Chicago Bears, 20-16.

The Dolphins (4-1) are trying to protect their lead in the AFC East.

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New York Giant running back Gary Brown will be out at least the next three weeks after undergoing surgery to repair damaged cartilage in his left knee. There is a possibility that Brown could miss the rest of the season. LeShon Johnson will start in Brown’s place against New Orleans on Sunday. . . . Steve Young’s decision on whether to leave football might hinge on more than his health. According to a report, the salary cap of the San Francisco 49ers is certain to figure into the timing of any retirement announcement. A retirement now could force the team to make deep cuts in its player payroll. . . . Baltimore Raven owner Art Modell is seeking one or more partners to buy a minority share of the team and wants at least $150 million. Modell is seeking a partner so he can pay off loans and strengthen the team’s financial position.

New York Jet defensive back Kevin Williams, hospitalized because a mysterious throat ailment, could be taken off a respirator by the weekend. . . . San Francisco running back Travis Jervey was suspended for four games by the league for violating its policy on anabolic steroids and related substances. . . . Carolina Panther linebacker Micheal Barrow, Indianapolis cornerback Jason Belser and New York Jet cornerback Victor Green were fined $7,500 for by the league for helmet-to-helmet hits in games last week.

Minnesota receiver Randy Moss was asked to pay restitution for a crime he committed while in high school. Ernest Johnson, who was beaten by Moss and another student at Dupont High in 1995, filed a motion in Kanawha County (W.Va.) Circuit Court saying a judge never followed through on a promise to make Moss pay. Moss later publicly apologized for the fight. He pleaded guilty to battery and was placed on probation. The judge in the case has scheduled a hearing on the motion for Nov. 2.. . . St. Louis running back Amp Lee, who is bothered by a bruise on his right foot, is not expected to play against Cleveland.