National Football League

Lewis defends T.O.'s remarks on coaches

Published Dec. 15, 2010 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Marvin Lewis is defending Terrell Owens a day after the receiver pointed a finger at the Cincinnati Bengals coaching staff for the team's lousy season.

Lewis played down those comments on Wednesday and said it's unfortunate Owens gets criticized nationally for speaking his mind.

On his cable television show with teammate Chad Ochocinco the night before, Owens said there's been a lot of underachieving from the owner on down. He also said the coaches are responsible for how the players perform. Owens isn't backing down from his comments, but he acknowledges that he probably shouldn't have said it.

The Bengals (2-11) have tied the club record with 10 straight losses heading into a game Sunday against Cleveland (5-8). The losing streak started in Cleveland on Oct. 3.