31.   The Bulls dominated the league all season.

32.   The Chargers, who allowed the most passing yards in the league last season, this year are allowing the third-fewest yards per pass play.

33.   The best defensive team in the league this season was the Spurs.

34.   The Cowboys ranked among the worst defenses in the league last season and are trying to replace five starters.

35.   The fines assessed on Francis and Evans were the highest in the league this season.

36.   The four best quarterbacks in the league this season are still alive and throwing well.

37.   The Lakers last week signed John Salley and Benoit Benjamin, neither of whom played in the league last season.

38.   The Mavericks have beaten every team in the league this season except Toronto, Washington and the Los Angeles Lakers.

39.   The league this season expanded into modern buildings in Detroit, Chicago and Minneapolis-St. Paul.

40.   The pattern held true in both leagues last season.