DAVIE, Fla. (Dec. 7, 2005) -- Recovering from a concussion, Miami Dolphins quarterback Gus Frerotte says several friends from around the NFL have called this week to test his memory.
"They all basically say the same thing: 'Remember, you owe me $500,'" Frerotte said. "That's what everybody says when you get a concussion. It's pretty comical."
The wooziness gone, Frerotte returned to practice, then pronounced himself ready to start Sunday's game at San Diego.
Also expected to play is middle linebacker Zach Thomas, who missed the past two games with ankle and hamstring injuries. Thomas practiced, as did defensive end Jason Taylor, shaking off a shoulder injury suffered in Sunday's comeback win over Buffalo.
Frerotte was briefly knocked out when sacked for a safety by the Bills in the third quarter. Sage Rosenfels replaced Frerotte, threw for 272 yards in the final 19 minutes and rallied Miami from a 20-point deficit in the fourth quarter to win 24-23.
Frerotte was heavily pressured by the Bills and struggled, but coach Nick Saban said he remains Miami's No. 1 quarterback. And that's what Frerotte expected.
"Sage played a great game," Frerotte said. "I know everything that comes with that. I've been in every position you can imagine as a quarterback.
"You just know your starter is going to come back in when he's healthy."
The concussion is the first for Frerotte, a 12-year veteran. He said if he suffers another one, he'll be held out longer, but he has no hesitation about returning this week.
"I've had all kinds of injuries," he said. "You just have to step back in the saddle. I'm going to go out and play like I've always played."
