BillyCarpenter1

Posted on Fri, Oct. 24, 2003

Delhomme's horse may get Smart name
PAT YASINSKAS
Staff Writer

Quarterback Jake Delhomme's new race horse doesn't have a name yet, but it could turn out to be something that's tied to the Carolina Panthers.

Delhomme, who owns horses with his father Jerry and brother Jeff in their hometown of Breaux Bridge, La., added another horse to his stable about three weeks ago. Delhomme is kicking around a few name ideas.

"I've thought about 'Carolinas Gal' or 'Carolinas Girl,' something like that," Delhomme said.

There's another suggestion that's gaining some momentum.

"I had a buddy of mine call last week and gave me a suggestion: 'She Hate Me,' " Delhomme said.

That's a takeoff on the "He Hate Me" nickname Panthers running back/kick returner Rod Smart made popular when he played in the XFL

"I told that to a couple of guys last weekend," Delhomme said. "I thought it was funny. I don't know."

Notes

• Safety Mike Minter (back) returned to practice Thursday and was upgraded from questionable to probable to play in Sunday's game. Linebacker Dan Morgan (concussion), receiver Muhsin Muhammad (concussion) and defensive tackle Shane Burton (groin) dressed for practice, but were very limited. All three still are listed as questionable.

Defensive tackle Brentson Buckner (hip), linebacker Brian Allen (groin), running back Nick Goings (concussion) and receiver Karl Hankton (hamstring) did not practice and remain questionable.

• Muhammad, a Pro Bowl selection in 1999, is off to a slow start. He has 16 catches for 223 yards and a touchdown and has been plagued by drops. Coach John Fox defended his wide receiver.

"From the day I got here, Moose has done everything I've ever asked of him," Fox said. "That's all a coach can ask for. I respect his game and respect what he brings to the table when he's out there on Sunday."

• The Panthers might be catching New Orleans running back Deuce McAllister at the worst time.

Going back to last year, McAllister has been dominant in October. In seven October games, he has run for 100 yards in every contest, getting 854 yards and six touchdowns. In those games, he also has caught 20 passes for 182 yards and two touchdowns.