Off-Field Football Stories Make Headlines

Sportscaster Bob Costas is leaping into the national debate over the name of the Washington Redskins football team. Costas believes it's time for a change.

Costas said, "It's an insult. A slur. Ask yourself what the equivalent would be if directed toward African Americans, or Hispanics, Asians or members of any ethnic group. When considered that way, Redskins can't possibly honor a heritage or a noble character trait. Nor can it possibly be considered a neutral term."

The owner of the Redskins has said "no way" to a name change. But there are reports that he may change his mind.

Meanwhile, Minnesota Vikings star Adrian Peterson took to the field Sunday, despite the shocking death of his two-year-old son. Adrian Peterson reportedly learned that he was the father of the out-of-wedlock child only three months ago. He met him for the first time Thursday while the boy was on life support.

Peterson said, "I prayed to God to get me through."

Some fans were shocked that Peterson would play. New York sports writer Phil Mushnick wrote: "It's sickening. The NFL's latest MVP, hours after his son died—allegedly murdered—declared he was ready to play football. Me? I even think I'd take off a day or two from work. Maybe a week," said Mushnick.

Some of the online anger may have been triggered by some heartbreaking photos showing the running back with one of his sons. Many people assumed the adorable toddler in those pictures was his son who died, but the child is actually his son, Adrian Peterson Jr. who is alive.

The running back tried to clear up a misunderstanding, tweeting: "My son Adrian Jr. who lives with me is healthy."

The boyfriend of the dead boy's mother is charged with aggravated assault and may be charged with the slaying.