Brady gets MVP award in season of records

Tom Brady, the New England Patriots’ record-setting quarterback, drew all but one vote Saturday to earn the Associated Press’ 2007 NFL most-valuable-player award.

“I have always been a huge football fan and will always have great respect for the history of this game,” Brady said.

“I am grateful to all of the voters for any consideration I was given. It is a tremendous honor, and I am sure it is one that my family will one day look back on with great pride.”

The eight-year veteran who already has won three Super Bowls helped the Patriots tear through the record books by throwing for 50 touchdowns. He beat Peyton Manning’s league mark by one, and 23 of the touchdown passes went to Randy Moss, which lifted the receiver past Jerry Rice’s record of 22.

The front-running candidate to become the Miami Dolphins’ coach was also the first to interview. Dallas Cowboys assistant head coach Tony Sparano interviewed in Dallas with new Dolphins General Manager Jeff Ireland, who was hired away from the Cowboys last week.

Sparano also interviewed Saturday with the Baltimore Ravens, as did Cowboys offensive coordinator Jason Garrett.

Tennessee right guard Benji Olson will sit out today’s wild-card playoff game against the San Diego Chargers after the Titans downgraded him from doubtful to out.

Olson was listed as doubtful because of back problems Friday and hadn’t practiced all week.