Monday, November 13, 2006

DMN - Owens, Haley continue feud in Arizona

Coach, ignored after T.O. score, speaks to receiver after the game
By CALVIN WATKINS / The Dallas Morning News


GLENDALE, Ariz. – Terrell Owens and passing game coordinator Todd Haley had an animated conversation in the Cowboys locker room following Sunday's win over Arizona.

After Owens scored on a 51-yard touchdown catch that gave Dallas a 20-3 lead, he ignored Haley when the coach came over to congratulate him.

Haley spoke to a visibly upset Owens as the receiver dressed following the game.

Owens and Haley have been feuding since training camp, in part, because the receiver was fined multiple times for being late to meetings or treatment sessions for a hamstring injury that plagued him during training camp.

Their feud has escalated since.

Last month, Haley chastised the receiver in front of teammates for arriving to practice late. Owens said he had an upset stomach and was in the restroom. Later that day, they had a confrontation regarding the incident but patched things up.

On Sunday, when Owens was asked about the discussion with Haley he said he wants it to remain professional and that Haley needs to stop pushing things. Owens said he wants to be respected.

Coach Bill Parcells forbids assistant coaches from speaking to the media.

Owens has reached out to Haley at times this season.

Returning from Charlotte on Oct. 29, Owens and other players gave Haley a toy rat as a joke. It was in reference to Haley's family filing a lawsuit against McDonald's when the family discovered a rat in a salad.

The problem between Owens and Haley doesn't seem to bother the team.

"I don't care about that stuff," quarterback Tony Romo said. "I throw the ball to whoever is open."

Owens has benefited, catching seven touchdown passes.