11.   As investigations unfolded, Felipe Almonte insisted to league officials that the birth certificate he produced was authentic.

12.   At an afternoon press conference, the mayor said league officials called and apologized for any perceived snub.

13.   At a press conference, league officials denied allegations of cheating.

14.   At first, what Huizenga proposed, some league officials said, was not exactly in following with league rules.

15.   At least one league official suggested to Chicago Bears president Mike McCaskey last week that he interview Denver defensive coordinator Greg Robinson.

16.   At some point, league officials began planning for the possibility that the game would be suspended for the night, then resumed Saturday.

17.   At one point, every league official in a policy-making position was a former public-relations expert.

18.   Baltimore officials will not comment, but league officials painted a vivid picture of what happened.

19.   Barring major concessions, two league officials confirmed last Friday, a lockout is imminent.

20.   Barring major concessions, two league officials confirmed Friday, a lockout is imminent.