NFC South Notebook: Oher blames hit film for criticism; Benson competent to run Saints
Every Friday, theScore's NFL editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NFC South Notebook.
Carolina Panthers
Oher says 'The Blind Side' hurt his career. Michael Oher's rise from homelessness to collegiate stardom was documented in the 2009 hit film "The Blind Side." Oher said the film has caused people to negatively judge him and his career, and believes people are calling him a "bust" in large part due to the movie.
Panthers will hold joint practices with Dolphins. The Carolina Panthers will hold joint practices with the Miami Dolphins during training camp. It will be the first time the Panthers have conduced a joint practice since 2000.
Gettleman unconcerned about Benjamin's weight. Panthers receiver Kelvin Benjamin attended organized team activities close to 10 pounds over his playing weight, but general manager Dave Gettleman isn't concerned. Gettleman stated Benjamin will be ready to go come training camp.
New Orleans Saints
Benson ruled competent to run Saints, Pelicans. A nasty court proceeding appears to be over, with Saints owner Tom Benson found competent to run his clubs and personal affairs. Benson changed the inheritance plan of his clubs, giving his wife control over the teams instead of his granddaughter, spurring a bitter feud in court.
Payton in support of NFL's first female official. Sarah Thomas will become the first female to officiate a NFL game in league history, and Saints head coach Sean Payton offered his full support for her. Thomas is officiating during the Saints' minicamp.
Griffin struck by champagne bottle. Quarterback Ryan Griffin was struck by a champagne bottle on June 7 at a nightclub, requiring 50 stitches as a result. Griffin spoke about the incident, and police did not accuse him of any wrongdoing.
Atlanta Falcons
Jones seeking extension, won't hold out: Julio Jones wants a long-term contract extension, but said he wouldn't hold out to do so. Jones is coming off the best campaign of his career, where he recorded 104 catches for 1,593 yards and six touchdowns.
Ryan believes Falcons could return to playoffs. The Falcons missed the playoffs the past two years, but quarterback Matt Ryan said this could be the year to end the hiatus. With new head coach Dan Quinn in charge, Ryan's remarks could prove to be sage.
Falcons rank last in fan experience. theScore put together the Likability Index to determine the league's most valuable franchise. With due apologies, the Falcons' fan base ranked last due to pumping artificial crowd noise and the local's preference for University of Georgia football as key factors.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
McCoy helping Winston with transition to NFL. Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is aiding Jameis Winston with his transition to the NFL. The third overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, McCoy knows the pressure of being a high draft pick and meeting lofty expectations.
Buccaneers go bowling during minicamp. During a very hot week in Florida, Lovie Smith canceled minicamp Thursday and opted to take the team bowling. If Winston's football ability is parallel to his bowling skills, the Buccaneers are in for a great year.
Buccaneers' uniforms ranked last in Likability Index. theScore rated the Buccaneers' uniforms as the league's worst outfits. Can you really argue against the mismatched color scheme?