Allen stays positive despite emergence of rookie Thomas.(Sports)

0 Comments | Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, IL), October, 2001 | by Imrem, Mike

Byline: Mike Imrem Daily Herald Sports Columnist CINCINNATI - James Allen needed time to gather his thoughts. So he dressed with his back to reporters surrounding his locker here late Sunday afternoon. Then he walked away for a few minutes. Then he returned to chat and chuckle with fellow Bears running back Anthony Thomas.

Then he turned toward the waiting media. "Excuse me, fellas," Allen said ... and he was off again somewhere. After returning with a piece of cold pizza, he finished dressing in silence. Finally, he turned and faced not only the inquiring minds but the music as well. "What's up?" Allen said. He knew what was up, of course. He knew the Bears' buzz at running back no longer was about him. It was about Thomas, who gained 188 yards on...