81.   Without a legitimate center and with a free-agent point guard from the CBA, the Clippers emerged as playoff contenders.

82.   With Peyton Manning, Edgerrin James and Marvin Harrison, Indianapolis should have a playoff contender for years to come.

83.   Yet the Bruins remain playoff contenders nearly halfway through the season, a significant improvement over last year.

84.   Would the fans have supported a winner and perpetual playoff contender?

85.   Among the playoff contenders, the Dolphins have one of the easiest schedules.

86.   Both teams are struggling and the trade is not likely to make either a playoff contender this season.

87.   Burke believes it will be easier to make a trade in March when Stanley Cup playoff contenders will be more desperate to deal.

88.   But going to a playoff contender might not be enough for McGriff.

89.   But the Eagles, hardly looking like a playoff contender, gave it right back.

90.   Considered a playoff contender, the Chiefs had their second losing mark in the last three years.