They Said It

? Bill Peterson, Houston Oiler coach, on Houston's preseason game against Dallas: "I'm not surprised that Dallas is starting five nonregulars against us. I know I'd do it if I were in Tom Landry's position. In fact, I'd like to be playing Houston myself."

?Dr. David Kurtz, U.S. pioneer of white-water sports, on the lack of interest in this country: "The problem is that most Americans still look at the canoe as a recreational vehicle, nice for picnics on a Sunday afternoon. We have about 1,500 competitive paddlers registered, whereas West Germany has at least 60,000."

? Bill Veeck's reaction to the announcement by Nick Mileti, owner of the Cleveland Indians, that all weekday games next year will be in the daytime: "Why not try it? What has he got to lose? At least he'll save on the light bill."