Titans WR Gage's great grab comes with a price -- an aching body

Published: Nov 11, 2009 at 09:34 AM

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Three days after making a highlight-reel leaping catch, Titans wide receiver Justin Gage still aches from head to toe.

The pain started as the adrenaline wore off following Sunday's 34-27 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. The Titans have run a battery of tests, including X-rays and CAT scans, but Gage, who missed practice Wednesday, hasn't received the results yet.

"I just don't want to do anything that's going to make anything worse and try to be as healthy as possible come Friday and Saturday," Gage said after gingerly stepping into his pants.

Gage had a season-high 97 yards on four receptions Sunday, highlighted by his leaping grab between San Francisco's Dre Bly and Dashon Goldson to complete a 33-yard catch. The 6-foot-4 Gage leapt so high that his knees were about even with the defensive backs' shoulders when he grabbed the ball, then he came down hard on his left side.

"I can't say I've caught a ball in that position, maybe rebound a basketball or a dunk," Gage said. "(I) never fell from it. It's something I'm not used to."

Titans coach Jeff Fisher said Gage's lower back is very sore. Gage said he hopes to play Sunday when the Titans (2-6) host the Buffalo Bills (3-5), and Fisher said he doesn't expect the receiver to be out.

Gage's catch keyed the go-ahead touchdown drive for the Titans after a replay erased an 81-yard touchdown run by Chris Johnson. Gage came down at the 49ers' 11 , and the Titans scored four plays later. His play has been repeatedly replayed on television.

"Definitely it was worth it," Gage said.

Gage was one of five Titans who didn't practice Wednesday. Cornerback Cortland Finnegan (hamstring) was given a day off for rest. Right tackle David Stewart, whose 53-game start streak was snapped last weekend, also sat out, as did running backs LenDale White (illness) and Javon Ringer (back).

Cornerback Nick Harper took part in his first full practice since breaking his right forearm Oct. 11. Linebacker David Thornton (hip) was limited.

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