something i found on the miami herald website
Chambers makes a bold prediction
BY ARMANDO SALGUERO
asalguero@MiamiHerald.comThe Dolphins awards banquet is meant to honor last season's accomplishments, but Wednesday evening it turned hopeful eyes on 2006 when players and coaches were talking about playing in Super Bowls and winning championships.
''They play the Super Bowl here next year,'' Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers told the crowd at the Broward County Convention Center, ``and I'll be damned if we're not the ones playing in our own stadium.''
Coach Nick Saban, who usually cringes at the mention of high expectations, seemed to embrace Chambers' outlook, ending a 30-minute keynote speech by saying, ``We will be champions in South Florida again.''
The 40th annual event was attended by the Dolphins squad, with some notable exceptions. Running back Ricky Williams, who apparently still is traveling abroad, and recently acquired quarterback Daunte Culpepper were absent but excused.
Defensive tackle Manuel Wright, who gained notoriety last season when he had an encounter with Saban that left the rookie in tears, was expected to attend and was even announced with the other defensive linemen. But he was not present.
Dolphins spokesman Harvey Greene said he did not know where Wright was. Wright's agent could not be reached for comment.
That did not diminish the enthusiasm of players, many of whom are excited by Miami's acquisitions so far this offseason, particularly the trade for Culpepper.
''Hardly any team has a chance to get a franchise quarterback in a trade,'' linebacker Zach Thomas said. ``To get a guy like Duante, I think has everyone excited.''
Chambers was named the team's MVP in a vote of South Florida media and fans. Thomas was presented with the team's leadership award for the third time and receiver and special teams captain Wes Welker walked away with team's community service award.
Chambers enjoyed a career season in 2005, catching 82 passes for 1,118 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also made his first trip to the Pro Bowl.
''This award would not have been possible without the helped I got from my teammates and coaches last year,'' Chambers said. ``I look forward to seeing us improve as a team in 2006.''
Thomas previously won the team leadership award in 1998 and 1999.
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