11.   Amazingly, Minnesota is playing well without the services of Stephon Marbury,who looked terrific in the exhibition season.

12.   Also, the first quarter was played without the benefit of a shot clock.

13.   Although Deion Sanders is expected to play despite a toe injury, a bad pass rush defense will play without injured sack leader Kavika Pittman.

14.   Although Tartini published his pieces with figured bass, Manze plays them without accompaniment, the way Tartini said he preferred.

15.   And again they had to play without Curtis Martin and Terry Glenn.

16.   And just last week, two games were played without a touchdown being scored.

17.   And Miami played without the starting linebacker Chris Campbell, who was hurt.

18.   And now he plays it without taking big gulps of air.

19.   And play it without penalty.

20.   And playing well without all their top players is why they remain a legitimate threat to repeat as Stanley Cup champions.