Right end Robaire Smith (back), tackle Kevin Shaffer (knee), fullback Lawrence Vickers (flu), left end Orpheus Roye (knee) and linebacker Willie McGinest (hip) practiced on a limited basis yesterday. Whether they will play against the Bills Sunday is still to be determined.

Resting older players in the early part of the practice week has been a matter of course of coach Romeo Crennel. For obvious reasons he would rather have Roye fresh on Sunday than Wednesday.

Crennel talks to the trainers before resting a player early in the week. Weighing in the decision is how the player responds from the rest; does he look fresher or rusty?

''You work with your medical department,'' Crennel said. ''If a guy is not able to go the way he needs to go, or if they feel like giving him some time off will help his recovery or make him better, then you try and do that depending on the particular player you're dealing with, how he has responded in the past and how you think that will impact him for Sunday.''

Peek has missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday for much of the season, but he has not missed any games.

Where is Wilson?

Second-year receiver Travis Wilson has been inactive for every game this season. Tim Carter, acquired from the Giants for Reuben Droughns, has played in every game. Carter has seven catches for 110 yards and one touchdown. He has one catch in the last six games.

Fans keep asking why Carter is continually used instead of Wilson.

''He has a little more experience for one and generally, more speed overall for two,'' Crennel said.

Carter is in his sixth season after five with the Giants. He caught 26 passes in 2003 in his best season with New York.

Almost a Wolverine

Braylon Edwards knows all about Bills safety Donte Whitner. Whitner went to Glenville High School and attended Ohio State. Before deciding to play for the Buckeyes he visited Michigan. Edwards was his Ann Arbor tour guide.

''I actually hosted Donte when he came to Michigan,'' Edwards said. ''He's a really good player. He's very passionate about the game. He's a hitter. I'm going to probably have to keep my head on a swivel this week.''

Edwards needs one more touchdown catch to break the franchise record of 13 he shares with Gary Collins. Collins set the record in 1963.

Anderson well protected

The Browns and Patriots are tied for second for the fewest sacks allowed. The Saints lead with 11. The Browns and Patriots have each allowed 16 sacks.

Five of the 16 the Browns have allowed were Charlie Frye being taken down in the first quarter and a half against the Steelers.

JSchudel@news-herald.com