11.  Defensive players have been told not to start publicly ripping into their offensive teammates.

12.  Defensive slipups and costly home runs have eroded some of the Giants' confidence, on the eve of their biggest series of the season.

13.  Defensive tackle Aaron Williams has been bothered by a strained Achilles' tendon but is expected to return to practice before the Sun Bowl.

14.  Defensive tackle Bryant Young, who has missed four games with an ankle injury, also expects to return soon.

15.  Defensive tackle Darrell Russell sacked Washington State quarterback Chad Davis twice and had five tackles for losses.

16.  Defensive tackle Eric Swann is scheduled to have his seventh knee operation today.

17.  Defensive tackle Henry Thomas, who has a sprained ankle, did not practice all week, and is doubtful.

18.  Defensive tackle Keith Hamilton frantically patted down his clothing to see if he had mistakenly brought in a live phone.

19.  Defensive tackle Mike Willetts, who had plowed into the middle of Baylor's line, exhaled a mighty sigh of relief.

20.  Defensive tackle Russell Maryland already has made out his Christmas wish list and checked it twice.