NFL

Pro Bowl linebacker Shawne Merriman of the San Diego Chargers has dropped his appeal of a four-game suspension for testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance.

The New York Jets insisted Curtis Martin has not yet decided to end his season, despite a published report that the NFL's No. 4 career rusher has told members of the team he won't return this year.

This weeks slate of games features Cincinnati at Baltimore and Indianapolis at New England.

Last week's most compelling game was Indianapolis at Denver. Manning and the Colts were able to outlast the Broncos 34-31.

NBA

Red Auerbach was buried in a simple graveside ceremony with Hall of Famers Bill Russell and John Thompson and Commissioner David Stern among those paying last respects.

Larry Brown and the New York Knicks reached a settlement on the remainder of the fired coach's contract.

The season kicked off this week, with opening night last Tuesday.

MLB

New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner fell ill while attending his granddaughter's performance in Cabaret at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, N.C., but is fine according to his spokesman.

The Houston Astros declined to exercise the one-year option on Jeff Bagwell's contract, officially severing ties with the club's home run and RBI leader after 16 years.

Misc.

Waltham's Brian Strait scored his first collegiate goal in BU's 2-1 loss to UMass-Lowell Friday night.